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What does it take to launch and grow a thriving microschool for neurodiverse learners? Kerry McDonald talks with Yorelle Haroush, founder of Trailblazers Microschool in Florida, about her entrepreneurial journey, her adventure-based approach to learning, and the overwhelming demand from families looking for alternatives to conventional schooling. Yorelle discusses both the challenges and the opportunities of starting small, scaling sustainably, and envisioning a global future for microschooling. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!
Across the U.S., students are heading back to school. But here's the reality: despite record levels of public education funding, student performance is flat—or more likely declining—in many places.Nearly twenty states have adopted near-universal Education Savings Accounts, giving families more freedom. Yet in many others, progress lags. Even where legislation has recently passed, like in Texas, the programs often fall short of true, universal choice in terms of all students, all options, and all dollars.The time for a school choice revolution is now! In this episode of This Week's Economy, I break down why education needs choice, competition, and innovation—and how those principles can transform not just the lives of individual students, but families, communities, and the future of our nation.You can catch the full episode on YouTube, Apple Podcast, or Spotify.Visit: VanceGinn.comSubscribe: VanceGinn.Substack.com
In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Tennessee Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton to discuss how his state is leading the way on education freedom and fiscal responsibility. Sexton shares why parents, not bureaucrats, should decide how their children are educated and explains how Tennessee's bold school choice program is empowering families with more options. He also highlights how competition is driving public schools to improve while ensuring every student has the chance to succeed, no matter their zip code. The conversation doesn't stop with education. Speaker Sexton also pulls back the curtain on how Tennessee is saving taxpayers money by cutting waste, paying down debt, and pushing back against the strings that come attached to federal funding. From rejecting costly mandates to insisting on greater oversight of grant dollars, Sexton outlines a common-sense approach to governing that keeps taxes low and opportunities high. His story shows what principled leadership can accomplish when freedom and accountability come first.
In this episode of The P.A.S. Report Podcast, Professor Nick Giordano welcomes Rich Valdes, host of America at Night, for a hard-hitting discussion on today's political and cultural landscape. From the Democrats' reliance on grievance politics to Trump's evolution as a political strategist, the two break down how cultural shifts are reshaping voter priorities. They also dive into the media's complex relationship with Trump, the deep state's challenges, and the high-stakes battle for New York City's mayoral race. This conversation reveals the forces driving America's political future and what it means for everyday citizens. Episode Highlights How Democrats use grievance politics and why it's backfiring with voters focused on everyday issues. Trump's evolution into a calmer, more strategic leader and his ongoing battle with the deep state. The national implications of New York's mayoral race and why Curtis Sliwa's grassroots support matters.
Tucked inside the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was a first-of-its-kind provision establishing a federal tax credit scholarship program that has the chance to greatly expand school choice for families across the country. Shaka Mitchell, Senior Fellow for the American Federation for Children, joins us to analyze the implications of this provision and discuss the school choice movement writ large.
Ashley Jochim, principal at the Center on Reinventing Public Education and mom of four, joins Mike Petrilli and David Griffith on the Education Gadfly Show to continue our debate on private school choice and regulation. She also discusses how Democrats' defense of public schools often clashes with families' real experiences, and why clear, consumer-facing information is essential to making choice work. On the Research Minute, Adam Tyner highlights a new NBER study from Chicago showing that giving principals more autonomy can boost student achievement— though effects vary widely depending on leadership capacity.Recommended content Unfettered Choice Has Not Delivered on Promises to Milwaukee Families —Ashley Jochim, Education NextInnovation, regulation, and school choice, with Mike McShane | Episode 984 of The Education Gadfly Show Overregulated charter schools: Fact or fiction? —Michael J. PetrilliThe mixed blessing of new school measures—Chester E. Finn, Jr.When decentralization works: Leadership, local Needs, and student achievement—C. Kirabo Jackson, NBER (2025)Feedback Welcome: Have ideas for our show? Send them to thegadfly@fordhaminstitute.org
- Our safety is our responsibility. -Corey DeAngelis joins us to discuss how our education system has failed our youth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At this educational crossroads of our country, Christians can help loosen the stranglehold of the state over education. __________ For more resources to live like a Christian in this cultural moment, go to breakpoint.org.
In this episode of the LiberatED podcast, Kerry McDonald talks with Maggie Van Camp, founder of Happy Hens Farm & Forest School in New Hampshire. Maggie shares her journey from teaching in the Boston Public Schools to building a thriving microschool inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, blending outdoor learning, the arts, acdemics, and homesteading on her 11-acre property. She explains how her licensed home daycare and K-8 microschool program serve both young children and homeschoolers—most supported through New Hampshire's Education Freedom Accounts—and why universal school choice is creating fertile ground for microschools across the state. Maggie also discusses her new yurt classroom, the role of play in learning, and her vision for keeping education small, personalized, and deeply connected to nature. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!
What does it take to step outside the system and build something new? Nadine Smith, founder of The Gathering Place, an all-girls microschool in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, sits down with Kerry McDonald to share her story of leaving the public school system to create a microschool focused on personalized, mastery-based learning. They discuss the realities of running a small school, Nadine's plans for expansion—including a potential farm-based campus—and why Nadine believes the future of education lies in microschools. Born in Jamaica and raised in New York City, Nadine is a proud graduate of the New York City public schools. She began her career as a humanities teacher, spending over a decade teaching English Language Arts, Reading, and History. She went on to serve as an instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal. For more than 12 years, Nadine led schools in some of Washington DC's most historically underserved communities. Nadine ultimately made the decision to walk away from traditional education to become an education entrepreneur. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!
In this episode of Education Matters, hosts Cesar Roman and Sarah Milligan sit down with Kim Graham, Director of Organizing and Partnerships at EmpowerED Families, to unpack what school choice looks like across Indiana—and how families can make the most of it. With over two decades of experience as an educator, advocate, and mom, Kim shares how families can navigate Indiana's evolving K–12 landscape, from understanding new high school diploma options to partnering effectively with schools. She also highlights the importance of asking the right questions, staying engaged, and knowing what resources are available to help families find the best educational fit. Whether you're a parent, guardian, or advocate, this conversation offers practical insights on how informed families help drive student success. Key Takeaways:
Two months after Congress created the nation's first federal tax-credit scholarship program, Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson has yet to decide if the state will opt in. Supporters, including Vicki Murray of the Washington Policy Center, say the program offers a win for students and taxpayers, while Ferguson has expressed skepticism. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/will-gov-ferguson-opt-wa-in-on-federal-tax-credits-for-school-choice/ #WashingtonState #SchoolChoice #EducationPolicy #TaxCreditScholarship #BobFerguson #WashingtonPolicyCenter #StudentScholarships #EducationFunding
On Saturday September 6th, a special statewide education summit will be held in Richmond. The hosts are the Virginia Education Opportunity Alliance, which includes the Middle Resolution, Virginia Institute for Public Policy, the Heritage Foundation and leaders in the homeschooling and micro-school movements and the day-long event will look at all of the options open to Virginia Families and discuss greater possibilities in the future. We sat down with the VEOA director Craig DiSesa to look at those opportunities now and in the future at the State Policy Network Annual Meeting where the growth of school choice was a large portion of the program. Keep Up With The Daily Signal Sign up for our email newsletters: https://www.dailysignal.com/email Subscribe to our other shows: The Tony Kinnett Cast: https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL2284199939 The Signal Sitdown: https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL2026390376 Problematic Women: https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL7765680741 Victor Davis Hanson: https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL9809784327 Follow The Daily Signal: X: https://x.com/intent/user?screen_name=DailySignal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedailysignal/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDailySignalNews/ Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@DailySignal YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/dailysignal?sub_confirmation=1 Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A push to expand publicly-funded school choice programs across the country is gaining steam. In only three decades, the practice has grown dramatically and President Trump is supportive of the idea. But what effect do school choice policies have on the K-12 education system as a whole? And where do charter schools fit in this debate? In this discussion from the 2025 Aspen Ideas Festival, three education experts from various perspectives report on what the data is telling us and highlight the nuances we should be considering. Alberto Carvalho is the superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, the second largest district in the country. Education journalist Cara Fitzpatrick reports for Chalkbeat and is the author of “The Death of Public School: How Conservatives Won the War Over Education in America.” And Tommy Schultz is the CEO of the American Federation for Children, which advocates for school choice. CBS co-anchor John Dickerson moderates the conversation, which was recorded in June.
In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts U-Arkansas Prof. Albert Cheng and American Federation for Children Senior Fellow Shaka Mitchell interview John Kirtley, Managing Partner and co-founder of Keswick Partners, and founder and Chairman of Step Up For Students, a nonprofit that manages Florida's state-funded K-12 scholarship programs serving over half a million students. Kirtley shares his journey from the private sector into education reform in the late 1990s, and why business leaders must actively engage in shaping K-12 policy. He reflects on Florida's steady, incremental expansion of school choice programs, explaining how this long-term approach built a critical mass of school choice families despite longstanding opposition, and offers lessons for newer ESA states like Arizona, Texas, and Iowa that seek to accelerate growth. Mr. Kirtley addresses challenges ahead, from ensuring a strong supply of high-quality private schools to managing the complexities of universal ESA programs. He also discusses how to measure and maintain accountability in parent-driven school choice programs, strategies to reverse stagnating NAEP scores, and the opportunities presented by the new federal education tax credit program.
Mike McShane, Director of National Research for EdChoice, joins us on the Education Gadfly Show to debate tradeoffs when it comes to regulation and innovation in the charter school and private school choice sectors.Then, on the Research Minute, Adam Tyner shares a report from the Urban Institute looking at college and career indicators and how they relate to research on post-high school outcomes. Recommended content: On school choice:Overregulated charter schools: Fact or fiction? —Michael J. PetrilliSchool choice should take the road less traveled —Robert Enlow and Michael Q. McShane, Education Next Charter school regulation means keeping the destination in sight —Thibaut DelloueFrom the Research Minute:Which college and career readiness standards best align with positive outcomes after high school? —Kristin Blagg, The Urban Institute (July 2025) The vibes for career-tech programs are great. But they're too rare. —Michael J. Petrilli--Feedback Welcome: Have ideas for our show? Send them to thegadfly@fordhaminstitute.org
In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with education entrepreneur Courtney Klein—co-founder of All One Thing and SUNSCHOOL, and Senior Strategist with ASU Prep. Courtney shares her remarkable journey as a social impact entrepreneur from founding her first nonprofit at age 21, to starting SEED SPOT, a global startup incubator, to now leading cutting-edge ventures in alternative education. Courtney's story highlights how entrepreneurship can unlock new opportunities for families, educators, and communities to create flexible, meaningful learning environments that move beyond the traditional classroom. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!
Join Jamison and Matt as they provide a high-level view of the federal school choice program, which is contained inside the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill (OB3). Will the program be available in your state? How much is available through the program? How has AACS been involved in the process? Be sure to listen to find out!
Stephanie Smith joins Greg discussing School Choice and athletics in Alabama, the reduced grocery tax, and the impacts of The Space Force announcement on Huntsville and Alabama. See Tim Tebow September 25th at the annual API Dinner in Birmingham. Donate and attend! AlabamaPolicy.org
House Education Chairman Rob Roberson, on the heels of a first select committee hearing on school choice and other education policy, tells Mississippi Today that lawmakers should be open to discussions on school choice, consolidation or any other measures that might move the state's education system forward. "The only people who don't have school choice now are poor kids," Roberson said. He said such issues need to be detached from partisan politics and viewed with open minds.
Melanie Smith's path to education entrepreneurship was anything but typical. A U.S. Army veteran who once worked in a European command war room, Melanie found her true calling in peace education through the Montessori method. After years teaching in both public and private schools, she launched Freedom Montessori Academy, an eco-school in Florida that blends individualized Montessori learning with nature-based education. In this episode, Melanie shares how her military background shaped her vision for peaceful, child-centered learning, why she took the leap to start her own school, and how she rebuilt her program after the challenges of the pandemic. Melanie's story is an inspiring look at resilience, innovation, and the entrepreneurial spirit driving today's microschool movement. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!
Joining is James Lynch, news writer for National Review and former reporter for the Daily Caller. Based in Washington, D.C., James has been covering the education battles up close, and he says one thing is clear: school choice is here to stay. From charter schools to education savings accounts, parents are demanding the power to decide what's best for their children's future. Despite pushback from teachers' unions and the left, momentum is only growing as families flee failing public schools and embrace educational freedom. James breaks down why this movement is unstoppable, what it means for parents across America, and how it's reshaping the future of education.
Corey DeAngelis joins Kevin P. Chavous to unpack the rapid rise of the education freedom movement. They explore school choice's impact on public schools, bipartisan momentum, the role of teachers' unions, and how personalized learning will reshape education's future. Corey DeAngelis is a leading voice in the school choice movement, a researcher, author, and advocate for giving parents control over their children's education. He currently serves as a senior fellow at the American Federation for Children and is affiliated with multiple education policy think tanks. Chapters 00:00 – The Winds Are Shifting 00:13 – What Drives School Choice 01:00 – Corey's Path to Advocacy 02:10 – Key Research Findings 03:51 – Leaving Academia 05:51 – Growing Support Nationwide 08:48 – Union Resistance 09:30 – Public School Gains 23:20 – The Future of Personalized Learning Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child's education.
Before government schools, America had 95% literacy. Now it's 35%. What if everything you've been told about "fixing" education is actually designed to make it worse? Robert teams up with award-winning journalist and CEO of Liberty Sentinel, Alex Newman, to announce their explosive new book "Woke and Weaponized" - a deep dive into how Karl Marx's ideas infiltrated American education and what parents can do about it. From Robert Owen's occult origins to the post-WWI turning point that handed our children to the state, this episode reveals the shocking history behind today's educational crisis and offers hope for families seeking true educational freedom. Resources: https://libertysentinel.org/ This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by: CC Plus Concurrent Enrollment: The Concurrent Enrollment Program is a flexible opportunity to earn college credit from an accredited Christian university while honoring homeschool families and program parameters contained in the Challenge Guide. Your student can remain in community while earning college credit for the work they are already doing which means community and mentoring stay in place while practicing the skills of learning through college! Register now or learn more by going to classicalconversationsplus.com/concurrent-enrollment-program.
Many school choice proponents today focus on what choice does for the students who use it to leave traditional public schools. But one of the original arguments for choice was that, through competition, it would spur traditional public schools to improve.So: Has it?Do choice programs make traditional public schools better? Does the size of these competitive effects depend on the type of choice program? And what other factors might matter for the amount of competitive pressure that choice programs exert on traditional public schools? On this episode of The Report Card, Nat Malkus discusses these questions, and more, with Sarah Cordes. Nat and Sarah discuss ESAs and the new federal tax credit scholarship program, why school transportation matters so much for competitive effects, whether choice programs can be too large, how competition affects school principals, and what effect declining public school enrollments might have on school choice in the coming years.Sarah Cordes is an associate professor of policy, organizational, and leadership studies at Temple University.Show Notes:Competition in Education Markets: Impacts, Perceptions, and Policy ContextsThe Effects of Charter Schools on Neighborhood and School Segregation: Evidence from New York CityIn Pursuit of the Common Good: The Spillover Effects of Charter Schools on Public School Students in New York City
It's possible this school year is one of the last before a federal program changes the face of public and private schools in Minnesota. President Donald Trump's sprawling budget bill that passed in July included a program that amounts to school vouchers that can be used for private schools. It signals a new era of the school choice movement. While legislation like this usually originates in conservative circles, nonprofit advocates in traditionally Democratic-leaning states, like Minnesota, have a new opportunity to strengthen their movement. Here to explain how the bill could change things for school choice in Minnesota is one such advocate. Ricky Austin is the president of the Aim Higher Foundation in St. Paul. He joined MPR News host Nina Moini to explain what his organization does and how the federal tax credit works.
Former educator and current insurance agent Jamie Creel joins the show this morning to discuss education and school choice in Mississippi, there's no way anyone can still support this idea the school choice is good "Republican policy" and nothing more than socialism with lipstick after listening to todays show.
Marc Cox and Dan Buck talk with Jean Evans about the judge's ruling on the NEA challenge to the Missouri Scholars program and the approval of 7,500 scholarships with $51 million in new funding. They explain how the tax credit program works, offering donors a dollar-for-dollar return and raising millions statewide for school choice. Evans outlines how scholarships are prioritized for students with IEPs and low-income families while addressing legal challenges from the NEA.
Jean Evans joins to explain the Missouri Scholars Program, its legal challenges, and how the tax credit scholarship program provides new opportunities for families. John Lamping analyzes Mike Kehoe's appointment of Catherine Hanaway as Attorney General, highlighting GOP establishment versus MAGA divides, redistricting battles, and future political ambitions for Missouri leaders. The hour also includes In Other News.
Marc Cox talks with Anthony Labruna about crime reduction in Washington D.C., Trump's plan to deploy the National Guard to Chicago, and opposition from Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson. Labruna explains how Democrats like Pritzker and Gavin Newsom are positioning for 2028 while Trump forces them to defend high crime rates. They also cover education reform, including a Missouri judge's ruling in favor of 7,500 scholarships, potential federal school choice legislation, and Secretary of Education Linda McMahon's push for local-level changes. The conversation closes with criticism of the press, Will Scharf's role in drafting executive orders, and upcoming debates over protecting First and Second Amendment rights.
Hour 1 Marc Cox reviews David Lee Roth's concert at The Factory, noting Roth's vocal limitations, the venue experience, and comparisons to Van Halen's heyday. He highlights Channel Five's 30th anniversary celebration. In the Buck Don't Give a ____ segment, Dan Buck talks with Link Lauren, a conservative LGBTQ influencer, about cancel culture and Kim Kardashian dressing her daughter inappropriately. Marc also covers manipulated crime statistics in Washington DC, ICE custody of Mr. Abrigo Garcia, Lisa Cook at the Federal Reserve, and Trump's executive orders on flag burning. Hour 2 Jean Evans joins to explain the Missouri Scholars Program, its legal challenges, and how the tax credit scholarship program creates new opportunities for families. John Lamping analyzes Mike Kehoe's appointment of Catherine Hanaway as Attorney General, breaking down Republican establishment versus MAGA divides, Missouri redistricting, and long-term political ambitions. Marc and the team also touch on factional politics, congressional maps, and speculation about the 2028 presidential race. The hour closes with In Other News. Hour 3 Marc Cox and Dan Buck talk with Fox News' Todd Piro about crime reduction under Trump, federal presence in New York, and behind-the-scenes media promotion. Anthony Labruna joins to discuss crime in Washington DC and Chicago, Democratic governors' positioning for 2028, and federal school choice reforms. In the weekly 2A Tuesday segment, Mark Walters explains how federal armed presence reduced murders in DC, shares immigration concerns in Illinois, and defends Second Amendment rights. The hour closes with Dan Buck's Buck Don't Give a ____ segment featuring Link Lauren on cancel culture, Kim Kardashian's parenting controversy, and the challenges conservative LGBTQ voices face in media.
Republicans are hoping school choice will be an issue that helps them with voters on the campaign trail this year. Michael Pope is looking at one district in Lynchburg where the future of public schools will be on the ballot.
In this episode of the LiberatED Podcast, Kerry McDonald talks with Jennifer Palmer, former special education teacher and now founder of Mobile Classroom Solutions in Polk County, Florida. Jennifer shares her journey from the conventional public school classroom to building a thriving microschool and learning pod that serve diverse learners, including many with special needs. We discuss how COVID sparked her entrepreneurial leap, why families are embracing flexible and personalized education, and how Florida's school choice programs are empowering parents to find the right fit for their children. Jennifer also highlights her role as co-founder and president of the Polk Microschool Collective, a growing network that connects and supports education entrepreneurs. Her story is an inspiring look at the creativity, courage, and community-building that are fueling the microschool movement in Florida and beyond. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org.
Susan Pendergrass talks with Matthew Ladner, senior advisor for education policy implementation at the Heritage Foundation's Center for Education Policy, about a recent Washington Post article blaming Arizona's Empowerment Scholarship Accounts for school closures in the Roosevelt Elementary School District. They unpack the real reasons behind declining enrollment, the role of open enrollment and charter schools, and why most Arizona students exercising school choice are still in public schools. The discussion covers how media narratives overlook parent-driven decisions, the political resistance to letting kids leave low-performing districts, and why open enrollment could be a game changer for states like Missouri. Ladner also shares his broader perspective on the post-COVID shift toward educational self-reliance and what it means for the future of public education. Produced by Show-Me Opportunity
Send us a textJoin hosts Alex Sarlin, Ben Kornell, and guest co-host Matt Tower from Whiteboard Advisors for a back-to-school edition of Week in EdTech, covering market shifts, Big Tech's push into education, the GPT-5 rollout, and the rising challenge of deepfake abuse in schools.✨ Episode Highlights:[00:03:40] Back-to-school funding uncertainty and “back-to-basics” mentality[00:06:40] B2C vs. B2B: consumer learning grows while institutions tighten[00:09:31] Big Tech moves from infrastructure to competing in applications[00:13:40] GPT-5 rollout backlash and prioritization of B2C users[00:17:34] Rethinking schools' role: raising the floor vs. raising the ceiling[00:19:52] School choice and flexible student pathways through ESAs[00:20:58] Proposal for an AI user Bill of Rights[00:27:36] Media panic: critiques of AI in education from major outlets[00:34:19] SoftBank executive buys stake in UK university[00:38:10] Workforce training gap: Google and Microsoft invest billions[00:39:12] Google's Gemini leads in image and video generation Plus, special guests:[00:49:18] Evan Harris, President of Pathos Consulting Group, on deepfake abuse in schools and crisis response[00:56:02] Becky Keene, author of AI Optimism, on AI literacy for teachers and classroom integration[01:03:47] Max Spero, Co-Founder and CEO of Pangram Labs, on building future-ready schools with emerging tech
Challenging claims that school choice is a free market solution, fosters competition, frees kids from failing schools, and eliminates leftist indoctrination, while exposing expanded government control and global agendas. During our podcast break, enjoy this replay of Courtenay's appearance on The Reason We Learn from March 12, 2025. Key topics: ➤Debunking common myths about school choice, including it being a free market solution, fostering competition, freeing kids from failing schools, and eliminating woke/leftist indoctrination. ➤How school choice expands government control via public-private partnerships, standardization, oversight, and ties to agendas like transhumanism, global citizenship, and biodigital convergence. ➤Parallels to Obamacare, the illusion of "choice," and the push toward tokenized, gamified education systems. ➤Advocating for true education liberty over government-funded programs. Follow and Connect with The Reason We Learn:
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat happens when your zip code determines your child's future?In this episode, Will and Josh talk with Jason Bedrick, a research fellow at the Heritage Foundation's Center for Education Policy, to unpack the complex—and often contentious—landscape of school choice. Bedrick shares his 20+ year journey in education reform, tracing his advocacy for parental rights and religious liberty back to a post-9/11 awakening and Milton Friedman's theories.The conversation explores vouchers, education savings accounts (ESAs), the history and distortion of school choice post-Brown v. Board, and how pandemic-era frustrations accelerated parental engagement. Bedrick also addresses the tension between religious freedom and government schooling, pushing back on claims that school choice fuels segregation or undermines civic unity.If you're wondering how school choice intersects with parental rights, government responsibility, First Amendment protections, or the values debate in public schools, this episode is a must-listen.Subscribe, share, and join the conversation as we examine what true educational freedom looks like—and who gets to decide.
Susan Pendergrass speaks with Andy Smarick, senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, about a recent U.S. Supreme Court case that could reshape the debate over faith-based charter schools. They explore the constitutional questions at the heart of the case, including the tension between the Establishment Clause and the Free Exercise Clause, and why a 4–4 split leaves the door open for future challenges. The conversation covers the potential role of religious organizations in public education, the importance of accountability in school choice programs, recent legal battles in Missouri and Wyoming, and how shifting public opinion may change the K–12 landscape in the years ahead. Produced by Show-Me Opportunity
We learn what help is available for flood damage. The legal and practical challenges of conducting the new census that President Trump is calling for. The history of school choice in Wisconsin.
In this episode of 'Your Message Received,' host John Duffin welcomes Chloe Anagnos, a writer, digital strategist, and active community member, who shares her unique journey from growing up in Elkhart, Indiana, to becoming a prominent voice in the fields of culture, politics, and motherhood. Chloe discusses the impact of the Great Recession on her hometown, her passion for journalism and digital media, and her strong stance on educational freedom. Please tune in to learn about Chloe's insights on resilience, authenticity, and the importance of respectful discourse in today's polarized environment.Here are some ways to follow and stay connected with Chloe Anagnos. Links below. https://americasfuture.org/about/staff-and-board/Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloeanagnos/Instagram @chloeanagnos00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview01:12 Meet Chloe Anagnos02:17 Growing Up in Elkhart, Indiana03:25 Impact of the Great Recession07:44 High School Challenges and Mentorship11:59 Discovering a Passion for Media13:09 College and Career Pivot15:09 Balancing Career and Motherhood20:09 Immigrant Background and Family History26:36 The Importance of Concise Communication27:36 Navigating AI in Communications28:07 Balancing Technology and Originality32:02 The Role of Respect in Debates35:18 School Choice and Educational Freedom43:00 Homeschooling Success Stories48:13 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome49:28 How to Connect with Chloe Anagnos50:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
And Just Like That writer and producer Samantha Irby joins to discuss the final season, the internet backlash, and what she really thinks about Aidan. Erin and Alyssa also dish on Pete Hegseth's praises for his bigoted pastor, Donald Trump's messy takeover of DC's police, and how school choice is ruining education funding in Arizona. They wrap with a scathing roast of Katie Miller's ridiculous new podcast for conservative moms. For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reposts video of pastors saying women shouldn't vote (NPR 8/9)U.S. Air Force to deny early retirement benefits to some transgender service members (NPR 8/8)Restoring Confederate memorial to cost $10M: Army official (The Hill 8/7)Trump federalizes DC police, deploys National Guard (NBC Washington 8/11)Nudity on Oklahoma superintendent's office TV was just a mishap, state House speaker suggests (The 19th 8/7)LA County CEO paints bleak financial picture; public hospital closure a possibility (LAist 8/5)Public schools are closing as Arizona's school voucher program soars (Washington Post 8/5)
Think of Alexa Achille as an "Alexa" for innovative education in South Florida. A former special education teacher in the New York City public schools, Alexa finds great fulfillment in helping families discover the benefits of unconventional education. She is the founder of The Collabo in West Palm Beach, Florida, which empowers homeschooling families by providing enriching learning experiences for students, strategic resources for parents, and expert guidance on educational and post-secondary opportunities as a Choice Navigator. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org.
What we've seen is incredible growth and popularity of educational choice being placed in the hands of parents and students rather than being placed at the mercy of assigned schools based on where lines are drawn on a map.
This episode is presented by Create A Video – AP Dillon joins me to discuss North Carolina Josh Stein's veto of a federal tax credit for school choice, passage of a state "mini-budget," and how Democrats are threatening to primary fellow Democrats for disagreeing over ICE enforcement. Dillon is a reporter for the North State Journal. She also publishes a Substack.com newsletter called More To The Story. Subscribe to the podcast at: https://ThePetePod.com/ All the links to Pete's Prep are free: https://patreon.com/petekalinershow Media Bias Check: If you choose to subscribe, get 15% off here! Advertising and Booking inquiries: Pete@ThePeteKalinerShow.com Get exclusive content here!: https://thepetekalinershow.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
August 7, 2025 | Resizing Gov; Putin/Trump; Tariffs; Jones Act; mRNA; Satellites; Gaza | Yaron Brook ShowFrom shrinking government to the Putin–Trump power game, Yaron takes on tariffs, the Jones Act, mRNA breakthroughs, satellites, Gaza, and Hezbollah. No spin—just hard truths about economics, foreign policy, and freedom.Live Q&A: Revolutionary spirit vs. today's complacency, falling TV prices vs. rising college costs, Gaza's “starvation” claims, school choice ethics, moral judgment, Israel's PR problem, animal rights, Trump's tariffs myth, WWI, socialism's war on the family, and more.Key Time Stamps:02:15 Resizing Gov17:50 Putin/Trump30:15 Tariffs49:05 Jones Act1:01:40 mRNA1:08:40 Satellites1:11:20 Gaza1:19:55 Hezbollah1:27:00 Putin/TrumpLive Questions:1:28:49 Did early Americans think they would win v Britain? What principle changed to make it tolerable now?1:39:10 Is this "starvation in Gaza" narrative nothing but a modern day anti-Semitic olood libel? Or has Hamas found a way to effectively starve its own population?1:39:58 What about late Andrew Coulson's argument that non-refundable tax credits are only acceptable school choice option, with other options too coercive and associated with subsidization? Do ESAs facilitate single-payer education?1:49:41 College tuition went up 194.4% in the past 25 years. Has the VALUE of a college education gone up by at least that much since 2000?1:52:26 Rand had a principle that one must never fail to pronounce moral judgement. Could condemning and shaming someone who cheats on their spouse be an application of this principle?1:56:00 Are most Americans morally good most of the time and just don't realize they're being moral because altruism is the accepted morality? What are the consequences of denying egoism intellectually even if one practices it?1:57:02 Why is Israel so bad at PR? Or is antisemitism so entrenched, no matter what they do, they will be crushed by ignorance? Netanyahu tried to get on Joe Rogan's podcast and was turned down.1:58:22 Are animals our slaves?1:58:37 Some animals have demonstrated a limited but very real capacity for reason. Such as Elephants, Chimps, Magpies, and Dolphins. Should they have some limited rights to the degree of their limited reason?2:01:07 Who'd be in the coalition on Dodd-Frank repeal?2:01:38 Bill Maher, etc., are saying: “I guess Trump's tariffs aren't bad; economy is good; I was wrong.” But they're not even in effect yet. What's the deal?2:02:32 is it helpful to debate policy on social media?2:04:03 I've heard you say that USA shouldn't have entered WW1. Did you know that Germany bombed NY harbor in 1916 and were sinking US vessels in 1915 & 172:05:50 did you see any clips from the DSA (dem-soc of A) Town Hall? they want to abolish the family. Said marriage=prostitution; childhood=slavery2:08:10 Do you have time for Portugal/Spain recommendations if I send an itinerary? Mostly looking for great food.2:08:12 See pinned comment for timestamps of additional questions
August 6, 2025 | School Choice; Intl Students; Economic Data; Russia; Jones act; Ships; China | Yaron Brook ShowDon't miss this episode if you want to understand how ideas shape events—and how to fight back with reason, individualism, and freedom.
Steve Gruber talks with Brian Jodice, National Press Secretary for the American Federation for Children, to break down the so-called “dilemma” Democratic governors face over school choice tax credits. Jodice makes the case for why empowering parents through school choice isn't controversial, it's common sense.
On this episode of the podcast, Senator Marsha Blackburn joins the conversation to expose the obstructionist tactics of Senate Democrats and highlight critical national security legislation, including bills to ban foreign ownership of U.S. farmland, specifically targeting China, end Sister City agreements with adversarial nations, and require U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assess the impact of foreign buyers on housing markets. The Tennessee Republican also calls for accountability in the wake of newly declassified documents implicating the FBI and the Clinton campaign in amplifying the debunked Russia collusion narrative.The second conversation on this episode is between Amanda Head and retired FBI Executive Assistant Director Chris Piehota who weighs in on the politicization of the Bureau, criticizing the weaponization of federal agencies for partisan purposes and praising current leadership for trying to restore the FBI's integrity. He warns of growing threats to national security if institutional trust isn't rebuilt.And finally, American Principles Project Executive Director Anthony LaBruna slams the National Education Association (NEA) after its annual convention devolves into a political rally against President Donald Trump. LaBruna calls for the NEA's charter to be revoked, citing a radical agenda that prioritizes gender politics over academic fundamentals. He predicts a mass exodus to homeschooling, private, and faith-based education as families seek refuge from failing public schools, and warns that union leaders' six-figure salaries are coming at the cost of students' futures.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Charlie takes an hour of questions live from CK Exclusive subscribers, including: -Are expanded government school choices policies a Trojan horse to exert control over Christian or home schools? -What is the one good reason to go to college without a detailed career plan? -Should Major League Baseball have a salary cap? Become an Exclusives subscriber and ask Charlie a question on-air by going to members.charliekirk.com. Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Back To School” Yes, it's back-to-school time in much of Virginia come the first week of August and as we enter a universe where the Supreme Court has cleared the way for the dismantling of the Federal Department of Education, many Virginians feel uneasy about what that future will bring. As we said in the column from last week titled “Could an End to Funding Mean a Start to School Choice?” it is also a time of opportunity to go back to serving the children of Virginia and providing them with the tools to be great adults. In last week's column we touched on the Virginia Micro-School Network and so many people asked about what that was, we decided that we needed to sit down with Lindsey Zea with the Virginia Micro Schools network to find out what they are and where they are going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices