Nach Genre filtern
- 334 - Why a Public School Principal Chose Homeschooling
What happens when a public school principal decides to homeschool her own children?
After nearly a decade as a principal, literacy specialist, and educator, Liz Powell never imagined that homeschooling would become part of her family's story. But motherhood—and especially thinking about what her own children needed to thrive—changed the way she looked at education.
In this episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, Kaitlin Zara talks with Liz, known online as Principal in Pajamas, about what she learned from seeing education from both sides of the classroom.
Liz shares why she left school administration to homeschool, what public schools do well, and what she believes homeschooling makes possible that even excellent classroom teachers can struggle to provide. She and Kaitlin also talk about individualized learning, ADHD and movement, creating structure at home, letting go of the fear of “falling behind,” teaching real-life skills, and why parents don't need a teaching degree to be effective homeschoolers.
This Episode Is Sponsored by John Paul the Great Catholic University
John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs in creative arts, digital media, theology, and business within a faithfully Catholic environment.
Apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses for homeschool students at:
https://jpcatholic.edu/homeschool
Resources
Follow Liz Powell — Principal in Pajamas:
https://www.instagram.com/principal_in_pajamas/
Homeschool Connections:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/
In This Episode
Kaitlin and Liz discuss:
Why a longtime public school principal chose to homeschool her own childrenHow becoming a mother changed Liz's perspective on educationWhat public schools and classroom teachers do well—and where the system can make individualized education difficultWhy one-on-one attention is one of homeschooling's greatest advantagesHomeschooling a child with ADHD and incorporating movement and breaks naturally into the dayWhy “connection before curriculum” mattersHow to give children structure without recreating school at homeVisual schedules, movement breaks, and other practical ways to make homeschool days run more smoothlyWhy it's okay to close the workbook when a curriculum isn't workingHow parents can let go of homeschool guilt and the fear of falling behindWhy former teachers may actually have some things to “unlearn” when they begin homeschoolingWhether you need professional teacher training to successfully homeschool your childrenIncorporating cooking, homemaking, nature, and other real-life experiences into educationHow Liz's definition of a successful education changed after leaving school administrationWhy education doesn't have to revolve around test scores, reading levels, or college readinessEncouragement for parents whose children are struggling academicallyOne Big Takeaway
You don't need to recreate a traditional classroom to give your child an excellent education.
Liz encourages parents to remember that homeschooling allows them to do something classroom teachers often wish they could do more easily: slow down, change course, take a movement break, follow a child's interests, spend more time on a difficult concept, or set aside the workbook when it isn't serving the child.
Most importantly, parents know their children in a way no outside teacher can. Homeschooling gives families the freedom to build education around the individual child rather than requiring the child to fit the system.
About Liz Powell
Liz Powell is a former public school principal, literacy specialist, homeschool mom, and content creator living in coastal Maine with her husband and three young children.
After nearly a decade serving as a public school principal, Liz stepped away from her career following the birth of her third child and embraced life at home with her family. She began her career through Teach For America, taught in multiple states, and later earned her literacy specialist certification.
Today, Liz homeschools her two oldest children and shares practical teaching strategies, literacy support, homeschool ideas, and encouragement for mothers through her Instagram page, Principal in Pajamas. Her perspective combines years of educational leadership and literacy expertise with the everyday experience of homeschooling her own children.
About Your Host
Kaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. She combines her classroom experience with the everyday realities of homeschooling to encourage parents to approach education with confidence, flexibility, and joy.
Tue, 22 Sep 2026 - 43min - 333 - Bring History to Life Through Your Family Tree with Maryanne Patterson
Does history sometimes feel like a disconnected collection of names, dates, and events? What if your children could begin with people they already have a reason to care about? Their own ancestors?
In this episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara welcomes longtime Catholic educator, homeschool mom, and curriculum creator Maryanne Patterson for a fascinating conversation about teaching history through genealogy and family stories.
Maryanne explains how researching her family tree became one of her family’s most memorable homeschool experiences. By placing their ancestors on a 400-year timeline, exploring the places they lived, and connecting their lives to wars, inventions, saints, immigration, and major historical events, history became personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.
This approach also transformed history into a whole-family, interdisciplinary study that incorporated geography, writing, art, research, science, faith, and prayer.
Then Maryanne brings the method to life by revealing what she discovered about Kaitlin’s Italian ancestors. It is an emotional and unforgettable reminder that our lives were made possible through generations of love, prayer, courage, sacrifice, and faith.
This Episode Is Sponsored by John Paul the Great Catholic University
John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs in the creative arts, digital media, theology, and business—all within a faithfully Catholic environment.
Apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses at:
https://jpcatholic.edu/homeschool
Resources
Explore Family of God and Maryanne’s Approach
See photographs, examples, project ideas, and information about using genealogy to teach history:
https://allfortheepublications.godaddysites.com/
Download Family of God: A Study of History Through Genealogy for Catholic Homeschooling Families
Contact Maryanne Patterson
allfortheepublications@gmail.com
In This Episode
Why family stories can give children an engaging doorway into historyHow Maryanne turned genealogy into a multi-age, whole-family homeschool studyCreative project ideas, including ancestral timelines, scrapbooks, maps, biographies, and family interviewsWhy stories help children retain historical facts better than memorization aloneHow genealogy can build gratitude, empathy, resilience, identity, and a sense of belongingSimple and affordable ways to begin researching your family treeHelpful genealogy resources, including Ancestry, FamilySearch, Ellis Island records, and Find a GraveHow family history naturally integrates history, geography, writing, art, science, faith, and prayerWhy speaking with living relatives and preserving their stories should be a priorityMaryanne’s moving discoveries about Kaitlin’s Italian ancestors and their connections to immigration, saints, military service, New York City, and centuries of historyOne Big Takeaway
History becomes more meaningful when children understand that their family did not exist apart from it.
Their ancestors lived through wars, migrations, political changes, inventions, epidemics, economic hardship, and cultural transformation. They worked, prayed, sacrificed, raised families, and made decisions that eventually led to the lives we have today.
You do not need to research hundreds of years of family history to begin. Start with one photograph, one name, one date, or one conversation with a living relative.
About Maryanne Patterson
Maryanne Patterson is the creator of the Family of God curriculum and a longtime Catholic educator, homeschool mom, and parish ministry leader.
A mother of six and grandmother of four, she spent 15 years homeschooling her children while actively serving her parish in numerous educational and ministry roles, including preschool teacher, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd catechist, ministry coordinator, and Vacation Bible School leader.
Inspired by a lifelong interest in genealogy and family history, Maryanne developed Family of God: A Study of History for Catholic Homeschooling Families to help children connect faith, family, and Catholic heritage in meaningful and memorable ways.
Her passion is creating resources that strengthen family bonds while fostering a deeper love for the Catholic faith.
About Your Host
Kaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. See her homeschool blog posts here:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=245991
Tue, 15 Sep 2026 - 56min - 332 - Why I’d still homeschool even if school options were great
Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 13: No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
What if you could design the perfect school for your child? Choose the curriculum, class size, teachers, and everything else? Would you still homeschool?
Kaitlin's answer is yes.
In this episode of Kaitlin Unscripted, Kaitlin shares why homeschooling has become much more than an alternative to traditional school for her family. It's a choice she would make even if every other educational option were exactly what she wanted.
In This Episode
Kaitlin talks about:
The freedom to follow a child's interests and individual learning styleWhy the whole world can become a homeschooler's classroomHow children learn from far more people than just MomLetting learning fit naturally into family life instead of arranging family life around schoolCreating a healthy rhythm of busy days, quiet days, work, play, and even boredomWhy one-on-one attention allows parents to recognize what makes each child uniqueThe irreplaceable love and attention parents bring to their children's educationOne Big Takeaway
Homeschooling doesn't have to be something families choose because other educational options have failed them. It can be something they intentionally choose because of what homeschooling uniquely offers.
For Kaitlin, that means freedom, flexibility, learning woven into everyday life, and the opportunity to give her children an education shaped by the people who know and love them best.
About Your Host
Kaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. See her related blog posts here: https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=245991
Thu, 10 Sep 2026 - 11min - 331 - The Joy of Homeschooling High School with Rachel Kovac
“Are you going to homeschool through high school?”
For many homeschool parents, that question carries an unspoken warning: high school is different, more complicated, and perhaps too difficult to manage at home.
Rachel Kovac offers a very different perspective.
In this episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara welcomes Rachel, author of Their Future Is Shining Bright, for an inspiring and practical conversation about the tremendous possibilities of homeschooling the high school years.
Together, Kaitlin and Rachel discuss college preparation, alternative pathways, standardized testing, internships, career exploration, screen habits, peer pressure, and the lasting value of simply enjoying life with our children.
This Episode Is Sponsored by John Paul the Great Catholic University
John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs in the creative arts, digital media, theology, and business—all within a faithfully Catholic environment.
Apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses at:
https://jpcatholic.edu/homeschool
Resources
Read Rachel Kovac’s Substack
https://substack.com/@rachelkovac
Follow Rachel on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rachelstitchedtogether/
Learn More About Rachel’s Book, Their Future Is Shining Bright
https://mediacenter.tyndale.com/search?q=Rachel%20Kovac&c=
Find the Book on Amazon
Kaitlin’s blog article, 10 Benefits of Homeschooling Through High School
https://homeschoolconnections.com/10-benefits-of-homeschooling-through-high-school/
In This Episode
What a successful homeschool high school experience can look likeWhy faith, family connection, healthy relationships, and vocation matter alongside academicsHow interest-led learning and strong core academics can work togetherWhy the high school years offer time for internships, businesses, creative projects, volunteering, and career explorationHow homeschooling helps teens develop independence, self-direction, and time-management skillsHow peer pressure and the desire to belong can shape teenage choicesWhy homeschoolers can still enjoy proms, graduations, friendships, and other memorable high school experiencesHow job shadowing and real-world experience can help teens make wiser college and career decisionsWhy college is not the right path for every studentWhy teens benefit from relationships with people of many different agesHow books, conversation, faith, and family culture continue forming students into adulthoodWhy enjoying our children now can help build strong relationships with them laterRachel’s encouragement for parents who feel weary in the work of homeschoolingOne Big Takeaway
Homeschooling gives teenagers time to pursue academics, develop independence, explore possible careers, serve others, deepen their faith, and discover the interests and gifts that make them uniquely themselves.
Just as importantly, it gives families more time for the ordinary moments that form lasting relationships.
Rachel reminds parents that this work is worth it, even when it becomes tiring. The love poured into our children is never wasted.
About Rachel Kovac
Rachel Kovac brings a fresh and much-needed voice to the homeschooling community, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of the often-overlooked high school years.
As a writer, speaker, and educator, Rachel understands the uncertainty many parents feel when deciding whether to homeschool through high school. Drawing from years of experience homeschooling her own children and helping them enter college with scholarships, she empowers families with vision, practical guidance, and encouragement.
Rachel helps parents approach academics, college admissions, and alternative pathways with confidence while nurturing a home life rooted in connection, purpose, and love.
She lives in Texas with her husband and four of their six children, while their two eldest attend college. When she is not writing or homeschooling, Rachel enjoys photography, sewing, gardening, baking sourdough, and learning Italian.
About Your Host
Kaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. See her homeschool blog posts here:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=245991
Tue, 08 Sep 2026 - 40min - 330 - What Homeschooling Has Exposed About Me | Kaitlin Unscripted Ep 12
We spend a lot of time thinking about how homeschooling is shaping our children—but what if it's shaping us just as much?
In this episode of Kaitlin Unscripted, Kaitlin gets candid about five things homeschooling has exposed in her own life: tying her worth to productivity, wanting immediate results, trying to control the schedule, rushing through the day, and realizing just how much grace she needs.
She shares how homeschooling has taught her to loosen her grip on perfection, trust the learning process, slow down for the moments that matter, and remember that connection matters more than completion.
In This Episode
Kaitlin talks about:
Why a completed to-do list doesn't determine your worth as a homeschool momLearning to be patient when your children don't grasp something immediatelyTrading rigid schedules for more flexible rhythmsChoosing which moments of family life you refuse to rushGiving yourself grace when homeschooling doesn't go perfectlyHow homeschooling can form parents as deeply as it forms their childrenOne Big Takeaway
Perfection isn't the goal. Faithfulness is. Homeschooling gives us countless opportunities to grow alongside our children—to try again tomorrow, apologize when necessary, laugh when things fall apart, and trust God with the children He has entrusted to us.
About Your Host
Kaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. See Kaitlin’s homeschool blog posts here: https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=245991
Thu, 03 Sep 2026 - 14min - 329 - Homeschool Preschool Without the Pressure: Let Them Play… and Learn with Jenny Bales
Does Your Preschooler Need a Curriculum?
For many new homeschool parents, this question comes with a surprising amount of pressure. Should a four-year-old be learning letter sounds, practicing handwriting, and completing structured lessons? Or should the early years be filled with stories, mud, blocks, imagination, and unhurried family life?
In this episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara welcomes veteran homeschool mom, consultant, and speaker Jenny Bales back to the show for an encouraging conversation about play-based learning, school readiness, and what young children truly need before formal academics begin.
Jenny explains that parents do not necessarily have to choose between learning and play. Young children can learn letters, numbers, language, motor skills, habits, and social skills. However, the way they learn in the early years should look very different from traditional classroom instruction.
Together, Kaitlin and Jenny discuss how to recognize readiness, introduce early academics without pressure, establish peaceful family rhythms, and trust that children are learning far more through ordinary life than parents may realize.
This Episode Is Sponsored by Into the Deep
Catholic homeschool moms, we’ve got something you’re going to love! If you’re looking for beautiful Catholic faith formation, practical homeschool encouragement, and lots of free resources, you’ll feel right at home at Into the Deep.
Visit: https://intothedeep.co today! Use code HOMESCHOOL10 to save 10%.
Resources
Visit Heart of a Mother
Find encouragement, consulting, and practical support for Catholic homeschooling mothers:
Join the Free Heart of a Mother Facebook Group
Connect with Jenny and a community of Catholic homeschool moms:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/heartofamothermoms
Helpful articles on homeschooling preschool: https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/homeschool-preschool/
In This Episode
How a child’s readiness and interest should guide the timing of instructionWhy early learning looks different from upper-elementary learningHow pushing academics too early can affect curiosity, attention, self-regulation, and a love of learningThe difference between “we have to” and “we get to” learnHow routines, hygiene, dressing, chores, and cooperation prepare children for later academic successWays to teach letters, sounds, shapes, counting, and early writing through games and everyday lifeHow read-alouds build vocabulary, listening skills, attention span, comprehension, and patienceHow to tell when a child is ready to hold a pencil, learn to read, or begin foundational mathThe foundational skills Jenny recommends before formal academicsHow to help a child learn to play independently without relying on screensAffordable ways to make room for messy play without overwhelming your homeHow to introduce reading, handwriting, and foundational math gentlyWhy formal sit-down learning may only need to take about 30 minutes a day at this ageOne Big Takeaway
Young children do not need their days recreated to look like a traditional classroom.
They are learning when they listen to stories, build with blocks, paint, dig in the mud, help with chores, dress themselves, talk with adults, negotiate with siblings, explore outside, and live alongside their families.
As Jenny reminds parents, the early years are not a race toward formal academics. The goal is to preserve curiosity, create good habits, build foundational skills, and help children see learning as something joyful.
Live life with your children. They are learning simply by living beside you.
About Jenny Bales
Jenny Bales is a Catholic homeschooling mom, homeschool consultant, and speaker whose mission is to share her love of homeschooling while helping mothers gain confidence, grow in peace, and homeschool with joy.
She has homeschooled her four children for the past 19 years, including graduating two students who were homeschooled from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Jenny loves Jesus in the Eucharist and days when her entire family is together and laughing. A full-blown extrovert living among introverts, she jumps at any opportunity to spend time with other women. When she is home, she enjoys college football, detective novels, jigsaw puzzles, and sweet tea.
Connect with Jenny and discover her support for Catholic homeschooling mothers at:
About Your Host
Kaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. See her homeschool blog posts here:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=245991
Tue, 01 Sep 2026 - 44min - 328 - What's In It for You, Mama? 6 Unexpected Gifts of Homeschooling | Kaitlin Unscripted Ep 11Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 11: No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
We often talk about all the ways homeschooling benefits our children, but what if homeschooling is changing you, too?
In one of her most personal episodes yet, Kaitlin Zara shares something she's rarely said out loud: homeschooling isn't only a gift for our children, it's a gift for us as parents.
From having a front-row seat to childhood to creating a home culture your family loves, Kaitlin reflects on six unexpected ways homeschooling has enriched her own life. Through heartfelt stories and honest encouragement, she reminds moms that it's okay to acknowledge the joy, growth, and fulfillment that homeschooling brings to them as well.
In this episode, you'll discover: Why having a front-row seat to your children's childhood is priceless How homeschooling creates deeper parent-child relationships The joy of building a family culture around your values Why every homeschool day can become something worth celebrating How homeschooling teaches moms to slow down and live in the present The surprising ways homeschooling transforms us into more patient, grateful, and joyful mothersIf you've ever wondered whether it's okay to admit that homeschooling blesses you too, this episode is for you.
This episode is sponsored by Homeschool Connections.Homeschool Connections partners with Catholic homeschooling families by providing live online courses taught by outstanding instructors. Whether you're looking for academic support, enrichment, or help teaching challenging subjects, Homeschool Connections is here to serve your family while preserving the flexibility you love about homeschooling.
Learn more:
https://homeschoolconnections.comKaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. See her related blog posts here: https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=245991
Please share this episode with another homeschool mom who needs the reminder that homeschooling blesses her, too.
Thu, 27 Aug 2026 - 21min - 327 - Episode 18: Evangelizing Through Beauty and Business
Episode 18: Evangelizing Through Beauty and Business
Can running a business from home be an opportunity to teach your children valuable life lessons? And can beautiful products offered in the marketplace be a means to evangelize? We're talking with a very popular speaker and best-selling author, Dr. Carrie Gress, about her family's homeschooing adventure. Stay tuned!
Visit Dr. Carrie Gress at her website: https://theologyofhome.com/ Buy her beautiful new book, Theology of Home: https://cutt.ly/Se24q4K
Today's Short Feature: Chantal Howard From Ideal to Real: Mix it Up With Meal Prayers
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 04 Dec 2019 - 35min - 326 - Episode 15: Inexpensive Ways to Create Beauty in the Home
Episode 15: Inexpensive Ways to Create Beauty in the Home
There’s a very good reason so many of us love the do-it-yourself programs on TV. We want beautiful homes on a budget. But more importantly, we need sanctuaries of beauty for our families. Today’s guest, Noelle Mering, is here to talk about Inexpensive Ways to Create Beauty in the Home.
Find Noelle Mering Here: NoelleMering.com and TheologyofHome.com
Today’s Short Feature: The Time it Takes to Raise Entrepreneurs
Find Dan Louzonis here: https://www.einsteinblueprint.com/ and https://kidsgetrich.com
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschooling
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 13 Nov 2019 - 36min - 325 - Episode 13: Inspiring Our Children to Love Literature
Episode 13: Inspiring Our Children to Love Literature
There’s nothing like a really good book, whether it’s a fictional story told well or great ideas from great minds. Today, we’re talking with a well-known Catholic scholar and homeschooling dad, Joseph Pearce, about Inspiring Your Children to Love Literature.
Find Joseph Pearce:
Joseph’s personal website: https://jpearce.co/Joseph's books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UCuxqq
(No Short Feature Today)
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschooling
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 30 Oct 2019 - 31min - 324 - Episode 12: Why Should Our Kids Learn Debate, Public Speaking, and Drama?
Episode 12: Why Should Our Kids Learn Debate, Public Speaking, and Drama?
Long ago, I pressured my shy, 12-year-old daughter into auditioning for our homeschool network’s junior production of Hamlet. Boy, was she resistant. But she got a part, and I can honestly say the experience permanently enhanced her life--and mine. Today, we’re talking with the delightful Kevin O’Brien about Why Your Kids Should Learn Speech, Debate, and Drama.
Find Kevin O'Brien at www.grunky.com or http://twinc-tv.blogspot.com/
Today's Short Feature: St. Magnus: The Last Viking
Find A.J. Cattapan at https://www.ajcattapan.com/ and https://www.catholicteenbooks.com/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 23 Oct 2019 - 38min - 323 - Episode 10: How Homeschool Grads Perform in College
Episode 10: How Homeschool Grads Perform in College
On average, homeschoolers measurably outperform traditionally-educated students in test scores, admission rates, and graduation rates. But is that the whole story? Megan Fassero, the Homeschool Outreach Coordinator for Benedictine College, will enlighten us on How Homeschool Grads Perform in College!
Learn More About Benedictine College: www.benedictine.edu
Request Benedictine’s Free Guide for Homeschoolers - www.benedictine.edu/homeschoolguide
Visit Benedictine on Homeschool Visit Day! - https://www.benedictine.edu/admission/visit/homeschool/index2019 Inspire Conference - Planning With the Temperament God Gave You - https://homeschoolconnectionsonline.com/free-homeschool-help-videos
Today’s Short Feature:
Self-Employment
Find Dan Louzonis here: https://www.einsteinblueprint.com/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 09 Oct 2019 - 37min - 322 - Episode 9: Homeschooling Kids Who are Wired Differently
Episode 9: Homeschooling Kids Who Are Wired Differently
Your child may be a very early reader, deeply focused on creative pursuits, and incredibly interesting as a human being—but what happens when that same child struggles with overstimulation, anxiety, or depression? Today’s guest is Ginny Kochis, here to discuss Homeschooling Kids Who Are Wired Differently.
Find Ginny Kochis here: https://www.notsoformulaic.com/
More Recommended Resources:
Gifted Homeschoolers Forum
National Association for Gifted Children
SENGifted
Crushing Tall Poppies (gifted adults)
Today’s Short Feature: From Ideal to Real
Activities That Will Change Your Family Culture
Find Chantal Howard here: https://www.chantal-howard.com/ and https://www.aromarosary.com/Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 02 Oct 2019 - 38min - 321 - Episode 8: The Role of the Father In Homeschooling
Episode 8: The Role of the Father in Homeschooling
Homeschooling dads have a unique opportunity to lead their families and influence their children in ways that are personal, powerful, and pleasing to God. Today I have the honor of talking with one of my favorite authors, Joseph Pearce, about The Role of the Father in Homeschooling.
Find Joseph Pearce:
Joseph’s personal website: https://jpearce.co/
Race With the Devil: My Journey from Racial Hatred to Rational Love, by Joseph Pearce
Some music recommendations from Joseph Pearce:
Scythian: https://www.scythianmusic.com/
L’Angelus: https://www.langelus.com/
Joseph’s article, “Virtue vs. Virtuosity in Education”
Today's Short Feature: Books and Blessings
A Single Bead, by Stephanie Engelman
Find A.J. Cattapan here: https://www.ajcattapan.com/ and https://www.catholicteenbooks.com/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 25 Sep 2019 - 29min - 320 - Episode 7: Time Management Tips from a Homeschool Graduate
Episode 7: Time Management Tips from a Homeschool Graduate
Homeschooled students get to develop unique skills and an outlook that strengthens them to live a very intentional life. Today I’m talking with Emily Henry, here to share some Time Management Tips from a Homeschool Graduate.
Find Emily Henry here: https://homeschoolconnections.com/instructors/emily-henry/
Today's Short Feature: Story Strands Telling Bible Stories
Find Celeste Behe here: http://celestebehe.com/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 18 Sep 2019 - 35min - 319 - Episode 6: Top Tips for New Homeschooling Parents
Episode 6: Top Tips for New Homeschooling Parents
Getting started with homeschooling can be overwhelming, but our guest is a homeschooling mom who loves to encourage and equip new homeschoolers! Today we’re talking with Amanda Woodiel about her Top Tips for New Homeschooling Parents.Find Amanda Woodiel:
In a Place of Grace
CatholicMom.com
AmazingCatechists.com
12 Top Tips for New Homeschooling Families
Today’s Short Feature: Einstein Blueprint
Find Dan Louzonis here: https://www.einsteinblueprint.com/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 11 Sep 2019 - 36min - 318 - Episode 5: Preparing for a Joyful Homeschool Year
Episode 5: Preparing for a Joyful Homeschool Year with Bonnie Landry
Have you ever wondered how some families manage to radiate joy in their homeschooling journey? Well, there are secrets to that joy that anyone can learn, according to our guest, Bonnie Landry, who will give us some tips on Preparing for a Joyful Homeschool Year!Bonnie’s workshop video series is now available FREE on YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFLgPpibMXI&list=PL-Ng60JqrF0SBJdTKdxXJ_EO_6zMVJNAx
Visit Bonnie's website to check out her blog and other homeschooling resources, bonnielandry.ca
Recommended Books: Bonnie’s books on Amazon: Homeschooling, Simplified series Revolution of Mercy, https://amzn.to/3GgA0uM
Recommended books:
Hallowed Be This House: Finding Signs of Heaven in Your Home, by Thomas Howard
Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers, by Gordon Neufeld
Sink Reflections, by Marla Cilley
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
Today’s Short Feature: From Ideal to Real
Find Chantal Howard here: https://www.chantal-howard.com/ and https://www.aromarosary.com/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 04 Sep 2019 - 41min - 317 - Episode 4: Building a Network When Your Children Are Small
Episode 4: Building a Network When Your Children Are Small with AnneMarie Miller
At first, they may be invisible to your homeschool network, but there are lots of moms with babies and toddlers out there looking for support and friendship for themselves and for their children. Some of them are discerning whether to stay at home long-term and still others are considering homeschooling. But what can they do while their children are too young for the local homeschool coop or the full-day programs available to little ones? Today we’re talking with AnneMarie Miller, a young mother at the very beginning of her homeschooling journey. We’ll be brainstorming ideas for Building a Network When Your Children Are Small. Stay tuned throughout for ways you can encourage and inspire AnneMarie and other moms like her!
Find Annemarie Miller at Sacrifice of Love, CatholicMom.com, and Verily Magazine
Find A.J. Cattapan at https://www.ajcattapan.com/ and https://www.catholicteenbooks.com/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 28 Aug 2019 - 32min - 316 - Episode 2: Consistency and a Charlotte Mason Education
Episode 2: Consistency and a Charlotte Mason Education with Dr. Jessica Ptomey
Today’s guest, author Jessica Ptomey, PhD, will explain the importance of Consistency in a Catholic Homeschool and how Charlotte Mason's methods provide the daily disciplines and habits to achieve a long-term vision for your children’s education.
Jessica’s blog and podcast: http://jessicaptomey.com/
Charlotte Mason’s six-book series, free online: https://amblesideonline.org/CM/toc.html
Beauty in the Word, by Stratford Caldecott: https://www.circeinstitute.org/store/books/beauty-word-rethinking-foundations-education
(John Senior quote on the prerequisite education for grasping the Great Books, is found on p. 119 of Beauty in the Word)
Consider This: Charlotte Mason and the Classical Tradition, by Karen Glass: http://www.karenglass.net/
Know and Tell, by Karen Glass: https://amzn.to/42BN2xl
Cindy Rollins’ podcast, The Mason Jar: www.meremotherhood.com/the-mason-jar-podcast
Jessica Ptomey on The Journey Home, with Marcus Grodi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zltIDGlyQ0c
Julia Carney’s Poem, “Little Things”: https://www.famlii.com/little-things-poem-julia-carney/
Today’s Short Feature:
Dan Louzonis, from Einstein Blueprint: https://www.einsteinblueprint.com/
John Louzonis: https://kidsgetrich.com/book
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Wed, 14 Aug 2019 - 42min - 315 - Episode 1: Busting Myths about Homeschoolers
Episode 1: Busting Myths about Homeschooling with Mary Ellen Barrett
Is it crazy to homeschool your children? Some people think that homeschoolers are weird and antisocial, that their kids have no friends, and that they spend the whole day in their pajamas! In today’s episode, homeschooling expert, Mary Ellen Barrett, debunks the most common myths and reveals one common belief that is actually true!
Mary Ellen’s Blog: Tales From the Bonny Blue House
Alice Gunther’s book: Haystack Full of Needles: A Catholic Home Educator’s Guide to Socialization
Mary Ellen’s Columns at AmazingCatechists.com: http://amazingcatechists.com/author/mebarrett/
Find Chantal Howard at Chantal-Howard.com and aromaRosary.com
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Fri, 02 Aug 2019 - 35min - 314 - The Joy of Slow Schooling: How to Restore Balance and Wonder to Your Homeschool | Ep 289
Does your homeschool ever feel rushed, overloaded, or focused more on getting through the curriculum than enjoying your children?
Slow schooling offers another way.
In this episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara welcomes educator, homeschool mom, and author Leslie Martino for an encouraging conversation about restoring balance, connection, and wonder to homeschool life.
Leslie explains that slow schooling is not about laziness, avoiding academics, or following one particular homeschool philosophy. Instead, it is an intentional approach that values depth over breadth, connection over control, and meaningful learning over simply checking boxes.
Together, Kaitlin and Leslie explore how families can use curriculum without becoming controlled by it, preserve play throughout the middle and high school years, assess progress in more meaningful ways, and create space for curiosity, boredom, creativity, and stronger family relationships.
This Episode Is Sponsored by Ascension Press
Pillars of Faith from Ascension Press is a brand-new K–8 Catholic curriculum deeply rooted in Sacred Scripture and Tradition and designed to evangelize the whole family.
Learn more about Pillars of Faith for your homeschool:
https://ascensionpress.com/pillarshomeschool
Resources
The Joy of Slow: Restoring Balance and Wonder to Homeschool Learning by Leslie Martino
Visit Leslie’s website
Follow Leslie on Instagram
@lesliemmartino
In This Episode
What slow schooling is, and what it is not Why slow schooling can work with traditional, classical, Charlotte Mason, interest-led, or unschooling approaches How to choose quality over quantity in your homeschool Why doing fewer things better can lead to deeper learning How to use curriculum as a tool rather than allowing it to control your family Why slow schooling does not mean ignoring academics or learning gaps How to balance child-led learning with core subjects and necessary structure What a day of slow schooling can look like Why joy can be a meaningful measure of homeschool success How slow schooling can work during the middle school and high school years Why adolescents and teenagers still need play Ways to assess growth beyond tests and standard benchmarks How families can make thoughtful decisions about technology and screen time Why boredom is a good thing Practical ways to help children discover what to do with unstructured timeOne Big Takeaway
Slow schooling is not primarily about moving at a certain pace. It is about making choices that reflect what your family truly values.
Instead of asking whether you completed every lesson or checked every box, consider asking: Did we experience joy? Did we connect? Did we learn something deeply?
Leslie encourages parents to see curriculum as a helpful tool—not a master—and to resist making decisions out of panic, comparison, or fear.
One practical place to begin is to ask: What is one area of control I can exchange for greater connection with my child?
About Leslie Martino
Leslie M. Martino is the author of The Joy of Slow: Restoring Balance and Wonder to Homeschool Learning: https://amzn.to/4x0LJ9w
She has more than twenty years of teaching experience as an elementary school teacher, home educator, and adjunct lecturer for graduate courses focused on the teacher’s role in supporting children’s individual work preferences.
Leslie homeschools her four children and works as an educational consultant, writing curricula, training teachers, and coaching parents to approach learning in an interest-based and connection-rich way. She is also a speaker on education and motherhood and a contributing writer for Wild + Free and other publications within the homeschooling community.
She lives in sunny Florida with her husband and children.
About Your Host
Kaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. See her homeschool blog posts here:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=245991
Tue, 25 Aug 2026 - 44min - 313 - Co-op or Hybrid School? How to Choose the Best Fit for Your Homeschool | Kaitlin Unscripted Ep. 10
Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 10: No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
Should your family join a homeschool co-op? Or would a hybrid school be a better fit?
In this episode of Kaitlin Unscripted, Kaitlin Zara explores one of the biggest questions homeschool families face as they build a learning environment that works for their unique season of life. While co-ops and hybrid schools may seem similar on the surface, they offer very different levels of structure, parental involvement, academic support, and flexibility.
Rather than telling you which option is "best," Kaitlin walks you through the key differences between the two models and shares the questions every homeschool parent should ask before making a decision. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at her own family's experience with a hybrid program and why it's been such a blessing during this season.
In this episode, you'll learn: The key differences between homeschool co-ops and hybrid schools How to determine which model best fits your family's goals Why parent involvement looks very different in each option When a co-op may be the better choice When a hybrid school can provide valuable academic support How to make your decision without guilt or comparison Why your homeschool doesn't have to look like anyone else's Why the best choice is the one that serves your family right now
Helpful ResourcesThe Homeschool Dictionary
New to homeschooling? Learn the meaning behind common homeschool terms—including co-ops, hybrid schools, unit studies, Charlotte Mason, dual enrollment, and more.
https://homeschoolconnections.com/the-homeschool-dictionary/More Episodes on Homeschool Co-ops & Hybrid Programs (including the one mentioned in today's episode):
https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts_category/homeschool-coops-programs/This episode is sponsored by Homeschool Connections.
Homeschool Connections partners with Catholic homeschooling families by offering live online courses taught by outstanding instructors. Whether you're looking to outsource a challenging subject, enrich your curriculum, or simply lighten your teaching load, Homeschool Connections offers flexible options that complement virtually every homeschool style.
Learn more at:
https://homeschoolconnections.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with another homeschooling family!
Thu, 20 Aug 2026 - 15min - 312 - How to Build a Growth Mindset in Your Homeschool | Ep 288
What happens when your child says, “I’m just not good at math” or “I can’t do this”?
Those simple statements can reveal something important about the way children view their abilities and how they respond when learning gets difficult.
In this episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara welcomes developmental and educational psychologist Dr. Kristi Moore for a fascinating and practical conversation about growth mindset: the belief that our abilities can grow and develop through learning, practice, perseverance, and even mistakes.
Dr. Moore explains the difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset and shares how seemingly innocent messages, including repeatedly telling a child how “smart” he or she is, can unintentionally make children afraid of challenges or failure.
Drawing from psychological research, her experience as a professor, and life as a Catholic homeschooling mother of six, Dr. Moore gives parents practical strategies they can begin using right away.
And Kaitlin gets a surprise along the way when Dr. Moore challenges one of her long-held beliefs about “learning styles”!
This Episode Is Sponsored by Ascension PressPillars of Faith from Ascension Press is a brand-new K–8 Catholic curriculum deeply rooted in Sacred Scripture and Tradition and designed to evangelize the whole family.
Learn more about Pillars of Faith for your homeschool:
Resources
https://ascensionpress.com/pillarshomeschoolUsing Praise to Build a Growth Mindset by Dr. Kristi Moore
https://homeschoolconnections.com/using-praise-to-build-a-growth-mindset/Other homeschool articles by Dr. Moore
https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=230089Explore Dr. Moore’s High School Courses with Homeschool Connections
https://tinyurl.com/mutbc57rMeet Dr. Kristi Moore
In This Episode What a growth mindset is and why it matters The difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset Why children who have always been told they are “smart” can sometimes struggle when learning becomes difficult What parents should praise instead of natural ability Why challenge, effort, progress, and mistakes are important parts of learning Practical phrases parents can use when a child is frustrated How to tell the difference between a motivation problem and a genuine learning gap Why homeschooling gives us a unique opportunity to go back and fill those gaps The surprising research behind the popular concept of “learning styles” How to balance a child’s natural interests with subjects they simply need to learn Why motivation is not one-size-fits-all How parents can model a growth mindset through their own mistakes and challenges How to talk with older children and teens when they are struggling Why giving teens ownership in solving academic problems can build motivation and important life skills
https://homeschoolconnections.com/instructors/kristi-moore/
One Big TakeawayInstead of focusing on whether your child is naturally “good” at something, focus on progress.
Challenges don't mean a child lacks ability. They provide opportunities to develop new skills, discover what may be missing, learn from mistakes, and keep moving forward.
As Dr. Moore reminds us, the goal isn't perfection. We want children to learn that setbacks are okay: get back up, keep going, and keep making progress.
About Dr. Kristi MooreDr. Kristi Moore is a Catholic wife and homeschooling mother of six children. She holds a PhD in developmental and educational psychology and serves as a professor of psychology at Angelo State University.
Her areas of specialization include child and adolescent development, with research interests focused on motivation and self-regulation. Dr. Moore also teaches psychology courses through Homeschool Connections and seeks to encourage parents in their vocation by sharing insights from psychological research as well as her own experiences as a homeschool mom.
About Your HostKaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. See her homeschool blog posts here:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=245991Mon, 17 Aug 2026 - 43min - 311 - Should You Join a Homeschool Co-op: 10 Questions You Should Ask First | Kaitlin Unscripted Ep 9
Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 9: No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
Should you join a homeschool co-op?
It's one of the first questions many homeschooling parents hear, but the answer isn't the same for every family.
In t his episode, Kaitlin Zara walks through the purpose of homeschool co-ops, the different forms they can take, and the thoughtful questions every family should consider before making the decision. Rather than following what everyone else is doing, Kaitlin encourages parents to evaluate their children's needs, their own family rhythms, and the season they're currently in.
Whether you're considering a highly academic co-op, a casual play group, or deciding to homeschool independently, this episode will help you approach the decision with confidence and peace.
Helpful Links:Articles on co-ops: https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/homeschool-coops/
Incorporating online classes into your co-op: https://homeschoolconnections.com/hsc-coop/
In This Episode What a homeschool co-op is, and the many different ways co-ops operate Understanding your reasons for considering a co-op Why fear and comparison shouldn't drive your homeschool decisions How to determine whether your child thrives in group learning environments When outsourcing certain subjects can strengthen your homeschool The value of consistent friendships for both children and parents How to know if your family's schedule already feels too full Why homeschooling independently can be just as successful The importance of reevaluating your homeschool each season Remembering that community comes in many forms—not just co-ops
Key Takeaways Every homeschool family is different. Co-ops are tools—not requirements. Your children's needs matter more than outside expectations. Flexibility is one of homeschooling's greatest strengths. You can always change course if your family's needs change. Community can be found in many places, not only through homeschool co-ops.
SponsorThis episode is sponsored by Homeschool Connections.
Looking for support without sacrificing the flexibility you love about homeschooling?
Homeschool Connections offers live online Catholic courses taught by experienced instructors in subjects ranging from theology and literature to science, math, foreign languages, writing, and more. Whether you're looking to outsource one class or build an entire academic schedule, Homeschool Connections makes it easy to customize an education that fits your family's needs.
Connect with Homeschool ConnectionsWebsite:
https://homeschoolconnections.comBlog:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Podcast:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts/Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolConnectionsInstagram:
https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolconnectionsThu, 13 Aug 2026 - 17min - 310 - Will I Homeschool for High School? (Part Two): Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 8Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 8: No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
Is homeschooling through high school really enough to prepare your teen for college, adulthood, and the "real world"?
In Part Two of this 2-part series, Kaitlin Zara continues answering the question she hears more than any other: "Will you homeschool for high school?" Building on last week's episode, Kaitlin shares five more reasons why her answer is an enthusiastic yes!
From helping teens develop meaningful friendships and preparing them for college admissions to strengthening family relationships, pursuing internships, learning real-life skills, and discovering that homeschoolers don't have to miss out on milestones like prom and graduation, Kaitlin offers practical encouragement for parents considering homeschooling through the high school years.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Why homeschoolers often build deeper, more intentional friendships How homeschooling prepares students for college—and why many colleges actively recruit homeschool graduates The surprising benefits of maintaining a close parent-teen relationship during the high school years Why learning doesn't have to be confined to a classroom How homeschooling equips teens with practical life skills that prepare them for adulthood Why homeschoolers don't have to miss out on prom, graduation, and other memorable high school experiences Encouragement for parents discerning whether homeschooling through high school is right for their familyWhether you're already homeschooling a teenager or wondering if you should continue into the high school years, this episode will leave you encouraged, equipped, and confident that there are many paths to a rich, successful education.
This episode is sponsored by Homeschool Connections. Discover expert-led online courses, live classes, and flexible learning opportunities designed to support Catholic homeschool families at every stage, from kindergarten through high school.
Kaitlin Zara is a veteran educator, homeschool mom, and host of the Homeschool Connections Podcast. See her related blog posts here:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=245991Thu, 06 Aug 2026 - 16min - 309 - Will I Homeschool for High School? (Part One): Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 7
Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 5: No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
One of the questions Kaitlin Zara hears more than any other is: "Will you homeschool through high school?"
In Part One of this two-part series, Kaitlin tackles the myths and misconceptions surrounding homeschooling teenagers and explains why her answer is an enthusiastic yes! From academic excellence and dual enrollment opportunities to internships, entrepreneurship, life skills, and better mental health, she shares the first five reasons she believes homeschooling gives high school students a tremendous advantage.
If you're wondering whether homeschooling through high school is the right choice for your family—or you're looking for a thoughtful response to skeptical friends and relatives—this episode offers encouragement, practical insights, and a fresh perspective on what homeschooling teens really looks like.
Be sure to join us next week for Part Two, where Kaitlin shares five more reasons why homeschooling through high school can prepare students not just for college, but for life.
This episode is sponsored by Homeschool Connections. Discover expert-led online courses, live classes, and flexible learning opportunities designed to support Catholic homeschool families at every stage, from kindergarten through high school.
Show NotesIn this episode:
Why "Will you homeschool for high school?" is Kaitlin's most frequently asked question Common myths about homeschooling teenagers—and why they're outdated How homeschooling provides greater academic flexibility and opportunities The benefits of dual enrollment and earning college credits during high school Why internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work are valuable parts of a homeschool education Teaching practical life skills that prepare teens for adulthood How a flexible homeschool schedule can support better mental health Encouraging entrepreneurship and creative pursuits during the high school years A preview of next week's Part 2, featuring five additional reasons to homeschool through high school
Thu, 30 Jul 2026 - 08min - 308 - Do I Need to Choose a Homeschool Philosophy | Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 6
Kaitlin Unscripted Episode ##: No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
Charlotte Mason. Classical education. Unschooling. Montessori. Traditional. Eclectic. If you’re new to homeschooling, it can feel like you need to choose the “right” educational philosophy before you even begin.
But do you?
In this episode of Kaitlin Unscripted, host Kaitlin Zara shares an opinion she wishes someone had shared with her when she first began homeschooling: You may not need to choose a homeschool philosophy at all—at least not right away.
Drawing on her own experience as a homeschool mom, Kaitlin explains why it can be helpful to first get to know your children as students. How do they respond to structure? What sparks their curiosity? How do they handle frustration? Do they thrive with books, hands-on learning, independent projects, or a mix of everything?
Kaitlin also explores why one homeschool philosophy may not fit every child in your family—or even every season of the year. From more structured learning in the fall to interest-led projects in the winter and a relaxed, almost-unschooling approach in the spring, she shares how her own homeschool naturally changes over time.
Whether you’re brand-new to homeschooling, rethinking your current approach, or feeling awkward because you can’t quite put a label on what you do, this episode offers encouragement to release the pressure, learn what works for your children, and embrace the freedom to build a homeschool that fits your family.
This episode is presented by Homeschool Connections. Whether you're looking for expert-taught online courses, encouragement for your homeschool journey, or resources to help your student thrive from middle school through high school, Homeschool Connections is here to support your family every step of the way. Learn more at https://homeschoolconnections.com/.
Show Notes
In this episode, Kaitlin discusses:
Why new homeschool parents often feel pressured to choose an educational philosophy Why Kaitlin questioned whether she needed a homeschool philosophy before she even began The importance of getting to know your child as a student—not just as your child How learning styles, personalities, frustration tolerance, and natural rhythms can shape your homeschool choices Why one homeschool philosophy may not work for every child in the same family How your approach to homeschooling can change with different seasons of the year Why Kaitlin’s own family moves from more traditional schooling to slow schooling and even a relaxed, unschooling-style approach The freedom to mix and match methods without worrying about labels A quick overview of popular homeschool philosophies and approaches Why there is no single “right” way to homeschoolHomeschool Philosophies Mentioned in This Episode:
Traditional homeschooling Classical education Charlotte Mason Montessori Unschooling Unit studies Eclectic homeschooling Waldorf education Online and virtual learningKey Takeaway:
You don’t have to choose the perfect homeschool philosophy before you begin. Take time to learn who your children are as students, pay attention to what helps them thrive, and give yourself permission to adapt as they grow and your family’s needs change.
Your homeschool may not fit neatly into a single label—and that’s okay. One of the greatest gifts of homeschooling is the freedom to build an education around the real children in front of you.
Thu, 23 Jul 2026 - 11min - 307 - How to Schedule Your Homeschool Day | Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 5
No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
Have you ever created the perfect homeschool schedule—only to watch it fall apart by 9:30 a.m.?
In this episode of Kaitlin Unscripted, Kaitlin Zara shares practical advice for structuring your homeschool day without trying to recreate a traditional classroom at home. Instead of rigid schedules that leave you feeling behind, Kaitlin encourages families to build their days around rhythms, anchors, and their family’s natural flow.
Whether you’re homeschooling energetic elementary students, independent high schoolers, or a mix of ages, Kaitlin offers real-life ideas for creating a day that has enough structure to keep everyone moving forward—and enough flexibility to leave room for life.
This episode is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville. Learn more about Franciscan’s opportunities for homeschool students, including dual enrollment courses through the Advantage Program, at franciscan.edu/advantage. To learn more about Homeschool Connections’ dual enrollment courses with FUS, visit HERE.
Read Kaitlin’s companion article at: https://homeschoolconnections.com/how-to-schedule-homeschool-day-2/
In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why rhythms and anchors may work better than a strict schedule
• How to identify your family’s natural flow
• A simple morning, midday, and afternoon rhythm for elementary students
• How to help high schoolers build independence and manage their own time
• Tips for homeschooling multiple ages without losing your mind
• How loop scheduling can help you fit everything in
• Why it’s okay to have a hard stop to your homeschool day
• The importance of protecting time for fun, friendship, and connectionThe goal isn’t to pack every subject into every day or follow the clock perfectly. It’s to create a homeschool rhythm that works for your real family and your real life.
Anchor your days—but don’t box them in. And always leave room for joy.
Grab your coffee, press play, and join Kaitlin for another honest, practical conversation about the real life of a homeschooling mom!
Thu, 16 Jul 2026 - 20min - 306 - Helping Your Homeschool Kids Rise to the Challenge | Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 4
No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
What do you do when your high schooler shuts down at the sight of a difficult assignment? Whether it's an essay, a math lesson, or a project that feels overwhelming, many homeschool parents have watched capable students freeze when the work gets hard.
In this episode of Kaitlin Unscripted, host Kaitlin Zara shares practical strategies for helping teens develop perseverance, resilience, and the confidence to tackle academic challenges. Drawing on her experience as both a former classroom teacher and homeschool mom, Kaitlin explains why some students resist difficult work, how to identify what's really causing the struggle, and simple ways to help them move forward one step at a time.
From breaking large assignments into manageable pieces to celebrating effort over perfection, Kaitlin offers encouraging advice that helps parents build not only stronger students but stronger, more resilient young adults. And she reminds moms that sometimes they're the ones who need encouragement to keep rising to the challenge, too.
To read the accompanying blog article: https://homeschoolconnections.com/homeschool-tips-help-kids-rise-to-challenges
This episode is presented by Homeschool Connections. Whether you're looking for expert-taught online courses, encouragement for your homeschool journey, or resources to help your student thrive from middle school through high school, Homeschool Connections is here to support your family every step of the way. Learn more at https://homeschoolconnections.com/.
Show Notes
In this episode, Kaitlin discusses:
Why some high school students shut down when assignments feel overwhelming Three common reasons teens struggle to begin difficult work How breaking large assignments into smaller, achievable steps builds confidence Why "hard" is actually a good thing when it comes to learning and growth Practical ways to cultivate perseverance through everyday "micro challenges" The importance of praising effort and persistence—not just results How parents can model resilience and problem-solving for their children Why emotional regulation is an important part of homeschooling What to do when frustration leads to tears, resistance, or a homeschool meltdown Encouragement for moms who sometimes feel like they're struggling right alongside their teensKey Takeaway:
Helping your high schooler rise to challenges isn't about removing every obstacle—it's about equipping them with the confidence, habits, and resilience to keep moving forward. By breaking difficult tasks into manageable steps, celebrating effort, and modeling perseverance yourself, you're preparing your teen not just for academic success, but for the challenges of adult life.
Thu, 09 Jul 2026 - 15min - 305 - What Do I Do If My Husband Isn't On Board with Homeschooling | Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 3
No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
One of the most common—and most emotional—questions homeschool moms ask is: What if my husband isn't on board with homeschooling? In this episode of Kaitlin Unscripted, host Kaitlin Zara offers practical encouragement for navigating this difficult conversation with grace, patience, and understanding.
Drawing on her experience as a homeschool mom, Kaitlin explores why spouses may hesitate to homeschool, how to uncover the real concerns behind their objections, and how to move forward together without turning the conversation into a debate. From fears about academics and socialization to financial concerns and feeling left out of the decision, Kaitlin reminds listeners that building trust often happens one conversation at a time.
If you're feeling discouraged because your spouse isn't as enthusiastic about homeschooling as you are, this episode offers practical strategies, a compassionate perspective, and hope that productive conversations can lead to greater understanding.
This episode is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville. Discover how the Franciscan Advantage Program helps homeschool students earn affordable college credit in a faithful Catholic environment by visiting https://franciscan.edu/advantage/. To learn more about Homeschool Connections’ dual enrollment courses with FUS, visit HERE.
Show Notes
Mentioned in this Episode:
📊 National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI)
Homeschool research, statistics, and outcomes:
https://nheri.org/📖 Kaitlin's companion article:
What If My Spouse Isn't On Board with Homeschooling?
https://homeschoolconnections.com/husband-isnt-on-board-with-homeschooling❤️ For more encouragement:
My Husband Doesn't Want Me to Homeschool by Maureen Wittmann
https://homeschoolconnections.com/my-husband-doesnt-want-me-to-homeschool/In this episode, Kaitlin discusses:
Why it's common for one spouse to be hesitant about homeschooling Understanding your spouse's fears and concerns before trying to persuade them Common objections to homeschooling, including academics, socialization, finances, and feeling left out of the decision Why listening is often more effective than trying to "win" the conversation Practical ways to involve your spouse in your homeschool journey How research and homeschool success statistics can help answer legitimate concerns Why celebrating your children's progress helps build confidence in homeschooling Knowing the difference between "no" and "not yet" Creative compromises, including co-ops, hybrid programs, and trial periods How patience, prayer, and ongoing conversations can strengthen your family's homeschool visionKey Takeaway:
If your spouse isn't on board with homeschooling, don't lose hope. Many concerns come from fear, unfamiliarity, or a desire to do what's best for your children. By listening well, addressing concerns with compassion, sharing the journey, and giving the conversation time to grow, you can work toward a homeschool vision that strengthens both your family and your marriage.
Thank you, Franciscan University of Steubenville, for your sponsorship and all you do for the Catholic homeschool community!
Thu, 02 Jul 2026 - 15min - 304 - The Myth of Falling Behind in Homeschooling | Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 2
No scripts, no interviews—just homeschool real talk.
One of the most common fears homeschool parents face is the worry that their children are somehow "falling behind." Behind whom? Behind what? In this encouraging episode of Kaitlin Unscripted, host Kaitlin Zara tackles one of the biggest myths in homeschooling and offers a fresh perspective on what real educational success looks like.
Drawing on her experience as both a former public school teacher and homeschool mom, Kaitlin explains why learning isn't a race, why comparison steals joy, and why homeschooling gives families the freedom to prioritize deep learning over arbitrary timelines. She reminds parents that children learn at different rates, that progress isn't always measured by grade levels, and that many of the most important skills can't be captured by a test score.
If you've ever worried that your child isn't keeping pace with public school benchmarks or wondered whether you're doing enough, this episode is a timely reminder that your homeschool journey is unique—and that your child may be exactly where he or she needs to be.
This episode is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville. Learn more about Franciscan's opportunities for homeschool students, including dual enrollment courses through the Advantage Program, at franciscan.edu/advantage. To learn more about Homeschool Connections' dual enrollment courses with FUS, visit HERE.
Read Kaitlin's companion article at: The Myth of Falling Behind in Homeschooling
Show Notes
In this episode, Kaitlin discusses:
Why the fear of "falling behind" is one of the biggest myths in homeschooling Who actually defines grade-level expectations—and why those benchmarks aren't as fixed as many parents think What Kaitlin learned from teaching classrooms filled with students at vastly different ability levels Why learning is not a race, and children develop skills at different rates The importance of prioritizing depth of understanding over rushing through the curriculum How flexibility allows homeschool families to meet children where they are Why social media comparison can undermine confidence and steal joy Practical signs that your child is thriving academically and personally The importance of celebrating growth in confidence, curiosity, resilience, and independence Why homeschooling allows families to focus on lifelong learning rather than arbitrary deadlinesKey Takeaway:
Learning doesn't happen on a universal timeline, and success isn't measured by keeping pace with someone else's schedule. Focus on growth, curiosity, consistency, and your child's unique needs—and trust the journey.
Thank you, Franciscan University, for your sponsorship and your support of the Catholic homeschool community!
For even more homeschool encouragement, make sure to check out our blog at https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Thu, 25 Jun 2026 - 12min - 303 - Do I Need a Teaching Degree to Homeschool? | Kaitlin Unscripted Episode 1
No scripts, no interviews. Just homeschool real talk.
In the debut episode of Kaitlin Unscripted, host Kaitlin Zara tackles one of the most common questions she hears from homeschool parents: Do I need a teaching degree to homeschool my children?
As a former public school teacher and now homeschool mom, Kaitlin offers a reassuring answer: Absolutely not.
In this short but encouraging episode, Kaitlin shares why homeschooling is fundamentally different from classroom teaching, what education degrees actually prepare teachers for, and why parents already possess the most important qualifications for educating their children.
Kaitlin also offers practical advice for overcoming insecurity, building confidence, and embracing the unique strengths that make homeschooling such a powerful, relationship-driven form of education.
If you've ever wondered whether you're truly qualified to homeschool, this episode is for you.
Because you don't need a teaching degree—you need heart, commitment, and a willingness to learn alongside your children.
Show Notes
Mentioned in this Episode:
Marriage and Homeschooling Together (featuring Kaitlin and her husband)
https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts/marriage-and-homeschooling/Read Kaitlin's companion article:
Can I Homeschool Without a Teaching Degree? at https://homeschoolconnections.com/can-i-homeschool-without-a-teaching-degreeIn this episode, Kaitlin discusses:
Why you do not need a teaching degree to homeschool successfully How homeschooling differs from managing a traditional classroom What teacher education programs actually teach... and what they don't Why homeschooling is relationship-driven, not credential-driven The importance of being a lifelong learner alongside your children Why consistency matters more than perfection How knowing your child's unique needs is your greatest homeschooling superpower Practical tips for parents who feel intimidated about homeschooling The value of community, open-and-go curriculum, and outsourcing subjects when needed Why love, commitment, and showing up every day are the real qualifications for homeschoolingKey Takeaway:
You don't need a teaching degree to homeschool. You need heart, grit, curiosity, and the willingness to grow alongside your children. Homeschooling isn't a backup plan—it's a bold, beautiful, and intentional choice.
For even more homeschool encouragement, make sure to check out our blog at https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Thu, 18 Jun 2026 - 13min - 302 - A Homeschool Dad’s Perspective: Why It’s Worth It | Ep 287
What role should fathers play in a homeschooling family?
In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with Homeschool Connections co-founder Walter Crawford to discuss homeschooling from a dad’s perspective. Drawing on more than fifteen years of homeschooling experience, Walter shares why a father's involvement matters, how dads can support their homeschooling wives, and the lasting impact that intentional fatherhood has on children.
From coaching sports and helping with homework to leading by example at Mass and creating meaningful family traditions, Walter offers practical advice and heartfelt encouragement for fathers at every stage of the homeschooling journey. Whether you're an actively involved homeschool dad or simply trying to understand your role more clearly, this conversation will inspire you to embrace the unique influence God has given you within your family.
Show Notes Thank You to Our SponsorEmily Brown from Fiat Life Coaching offers premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms to learn essential skills to manage their time, other people’s behavior, and their own mental and emotional well-being.
Learn more about the Happy, Holy Mama Membership here:
About Our Guest
https://fiatlifecoaching.ontralink.com/tl/6Walter Crawford is a co-founder of Homeschool Connections and a veteran homeschooling father whose family has homeschooled for more than sixteen years. Alongside his wife and six children, Walter has experienced firsthand the challenges, sacrifices, and tremendous rewards of homeschooling. Through Homeschool Connections, he has helped thousands of Catholic families find academic support, community, and confidence in their homeschooling journey.
Homeschool Connections
https://homeschoolconnections.com/ Catholic Homeschool Blog
https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/ Homeschool Connections Parent Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolconnectionsparents YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@homeschoolconnection/ Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolconnections X (Twitter)
https://x.com/homeschoolcnnct
What We Cover in This Episode Three practical ways dads can strengthen their homeschool: support your wife, stay united as a team, and be a utility player wherever needed Why fathers play a critical role in homeschooling success Different ways dads can support homeschooling families The importance of being open to homeschooling, even if you're initially unsure Why high school is often the most challenging homeschool season Lessons learned from homeschooling through difficult academic struggles The long-term fruits of homeschooling seen in adult children Why fathers should view homeschooling as an investment in their family Practical ways busy dads can stay involved despite work schedules The power of coaching, mentoring, and simply showing up How dads teach far more than academics Why Mass, prayer, and family faith practices matter Building strong family culture through hobbies, outings, and vacations Lessons Walter learned from fatherhood and homeschooling mistakes The Catechism's teaching on parents as the primary educators of their children Why fathers must be "the rock" for their families
Memorable Quote"Whatever investments you make into your children now will be visible ten or fifteen years from now. The more you put into it, the more you'll get back."
Key TakeawayHomeschooling is not simply about academics. It is about forming relationships, building virtue, strengthening family bonds, and investing intentionally in the people God has entrusted to your care. Fathers have a unique and irreplaceable role in that mission.
Mon, 01 Jun 2026 - 47min - 301 - A Grandparent's Role in Homeschooling | Ep 286
What role do grandparents play in a homeschool family?
In this heartfelt episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Homeschool Connections co-founder and grandmother of eleven, Maureen Wittmann, to discuss the unique and beautiful ways grandparents can support homeschooling families. From reading books and teaching life skills to offering practical help, prayer, encouragement, and simply being present, grandparents have an incredible opportunity to strengthen family culture and enrich a child’s education.
Maureen shares personal stories from her own homeschooling years, practical ideas for grandparents who live both near and far away, and encouragement for families navigating relationships with skeptical relatives. This conversation is a touching reminder that homeschooling is about far more than academics—it’s about building strong, loving family relationships across generations.
Show Notes Thank You to Our Sponsor!John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs within creative arts, digital media, theology, and business in a faithfully Catholic environment.
Apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses at:
Resources Mentioned Catholic Family Crate Subscription Boxes
https://jpcatholic.edu/homeschool
https://catholicfamilycrate.com/ Homeschool Connections Articles for Grandparents
https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/grandparents-homeschooling/
What We Cover in This Episode Why grandparents are such an important part of homeschooling Practical ways grandparents can support homeschool families How grandparents can help even when they live far away Using books, nature, cooking, and family traditions to enrich learning Why homeschooling strengthens intergenerational relationships Helping homeschool parents avoid burnout Supporting family culture through shared experiences Encouraging grandparents who feel unsure how to help Navigating relationships with skeptical grandparents or relatives Why homeschooling is more than academics: it’s a way of life The importance of prayer and mentorship within the family How grandparents can pass down faith, stories, and family history Respecting parental authority while remaining involved and supportive
About Our GuestMaureen Wittmann is the co-founder of Homeschool Connections, a veteran homeschool mom of seven, grandmother of eleven, author, speaker, and longtime advocate for Catholic homeschooling families. Through her writing, speaking, and work at Homeschool Connections, she has spent decades helping families homeschool with confidence, joy, and a strong Catholic family culture.
Mon, 25 May 2026 - 28min - 300 - The Real Cost of Homeschooling—and How Families Make It Work | Ep 285
Can your family really afford to homeschool in today’s economy?
In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Catholic financial coach and homeschooling mom Amanda Teixeira to talk honestly about the financial realities of homeschooling. From budgeting and grocery savings to navigating a one-income household, Amanda shares practical strategies to help families homeschool without drowning in stress or debt.
Together, they discuss the hidden financial pressures homeschool families face, common budgeting mistakes, and how couples can work together toward financial peace. Amanda also offers encouragement for parents discerning whether homeschooling is financially possible for their family.
Whether you’re just starting your homeschool journey or trying to make it sustainable long-term, this episode offers hope, practical tools, and faith-filled wisdom.
Show Notes SponsorAt Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s dual enrollment.
Learn more at Franciscan dot E-D-U.
Resources Mentioned Catholic Budget Guide
https://catholicbudgetguide.com/ Catholic Money Academy
https://catholicmoneyacademy.com/ WalletWin
https://walletwin.com/moneytogether/ Messy Family Podcast
https://messyfamilyproject.org/podcasts/
About Our GuestAmanda Teixeira is the co-founder of WalletWin, a Catholic financial formation ministry that helps families eliminate debt, build savings, and live with financial peace and generosity.
After paying off $25,000 of debt in just seven and a half months with her husband Jonathan, Amanda began helping other Catholic families take control of their finances. Together, they are the authors of How to Attack Debt, Build Savings, and Change the World Through Generosity: A Catholic Guide to Managing Money and creators of multiple Catholic financial education programs used by parishes, dioceses, and schools nationwide.
Amanda and Jonathan live in Omaha, Nebraska with their four children.
What We Cover in This Episode The real financial challenges homeschool families face today How inflation has changed homeschooling budgets Why budgeting is the key skill every homeschool family needs Tips for transitioning from two incomes to one Grocery-saving strategies for large families Batch cooking, bulk buying, and simplifying food expenses Common financial mistakes homeschool families make Why homeschool moms shouldn’t compare themselves to influencers Balancing homeschool expenses with marriage and family priorities Saving for retirement and college while homeschooling Why couples need regular “budget parties” How to become financially unified in marriage Discernment and prayer when deciding whether to homeschool Encouragement for families who feel homeschooling is financially impossibleTo discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool PodcastGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 18 May 2026 - 41min - 299 - How to Choose the Right Homeschool Curriculum (Without Getting Overwhelmed) | Ep 284
Choosing homeschool curriculum can feel overwhelming. There are endless options, strong opinions, shiny new programs, and the constant fear of making the “wrong” choice.
In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with veteran homeschool mom and consultant Jenny Bales to help parents simplify the curriculum selection process and homeschool with more confidence and peace. Jenny shares practical advice for discerning what your family truly needs, avoiding comparison traps, and building a homeschool that actually works for your unique children and season of life.
Whether you’re brand new to homeschooling or reevaluating what’s working in your current routine, this conversation will help you step away from pressure and move toward clarity, freedom, and joy.
Thank You to Our SponsorEmily Brown from Fiat Life Coaching offers premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms to learn essential skills to manage their time, other people’s behavior, and their own mental and emotional well-being.
Learn more about the Happy, Holy Mama Membership here:
Show Notes What We Cover in This Episode: Why choosing curriculum feels so overwhelming today The biggest mistakes homeschool parents make when selecting curriculum Why there is no “perfect” curriculum How to discern what your child truly needs Avoiding comparison and homeschool pressure The importance of understanding your homeschool goals first What to prioritize in the early years How personality and learning style affect curriculum choices Why flexibility matters more than perfection When to stick with a curriculum—and when to pivot Practical tips for simplifying your homeschool planning Encouragement for moms who feel behind or uncertain
https://fiatlifecoaching.ontralink.com/tl/6
Resources Mentioned Jenny Bales / Heart of a Mother Website: https://www.heartofamother.net The Heart of a Mother Mega Catholic Homeschool Curriculum List: https://www.heartofamother.net/curriculum/ Free Resources & “Jenny’s Curriculum Picks”: https://www.heartofamother.net/(Go to Free Resources → Homeschool Guides) Summer Planning Help & “Discerning Curriculum Bootcamp”: https://www.heartofamother.net/homeschool-planning/Catholic Homeschool Curriculum mentioned:
Catholic Heritage Curricula, https://chcweb.com/ Homeschool Connections, https://www.homeschoolconnections.com/ Kolbe Academy, https://www.kolbe.org/ Mater Amabilis, https://materamabilis.org/ma/ Mother of Divine Grace School, https://modg.org/ Seton Home Study School, https://www.setonhome.org/
About the GuestJenny Bales is a Catholic homeschooling mom of four, homeschool consultant, and speaker who has homeschooled for 19 years, including graduating two students who were homeschooled K–12. Her mission is to help homeschool moms gain confidence, grow in peace, and homeschool with joy through the support and resources she offers at Heart of a Mother.
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool PodcastGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 11 May 2026 - 27min - 298 - Peaceful Homeschool Parenting: The Simple Shift That Changes Everything | Ep. 283
Homeschooling gives us more time with our children. But what happens when that time is filled with frustration, conflict, or constant correction?
In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with Catholic homeschool mom of seven and life coach Emily Brown to explore the powerful role of connection in peaceful parenting. Emily shares practical, faith-centered strategies to help moms navigate difficult behaviors, reduce overwhelm, and build stronger relationships with their children.
From handling meltdowns and defiance to shifting your own mindset and responding with calm confidence, this conversation offers real encouragement for moms in the trenches. If you’ve ever wondered how to discipline without damaging your relationship, or how to find peace in the middle of a hard season, this episode is for you.
SponsorAt Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit through online dual enrollment.
Learn more at: franciscan.edu
Show Notes Key Takeaways: Behavior is often a form of communication Calm, connected parenting is more effective than reactive discipline Small moments of attention can transform relationships You are not failing—you are being formed alongside your children
Resources Mentioned: Free PDF: 30 New Thoughts to Think
https://fiatlifecoaching.com/30-new-thoughts-sign-up Fiat Life Coaching:
https://fiatlifecoaching.com/ Homeschool Better Together:
https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/ Happy, Holy Mama Podcast:
https://fiatlifecoaching.com/podcast
About Our GuestEmily Brown is a Catholic homeschooling mother of 7, including her first homeschool graduate this year, with a second graduating soon, down to a rising second grader. She’s a former youth leader turned certified life coach with a deep passion for building up the kingdom of God, one family at a time, starting with the mother.
Emily runs a life-coaching membership for Catholic homeschool moms called Happy, Holy Mama, where you can learn practical tools to think, feel, and serve God better through your family.
She is also now the proud owner and CEO of Homeschool Better Together, an online curriculum and homeschool support provider that helps families homeschool multiple children with more joy and connection.
You can listen to her on the Happy, Holy Mama Podcast. And you can learn more about her work at fiatlifecoaching.com and homeschoolbettertogether.com
What We Cover in This Episode: Why homeschooling can make behavior feel both easier and harder The real reason behavior issues feel overwhelming (hint: it’s not just the kids) Why “connection before correction” changes everything How your thoughts shape your reactions, and your homeschool atmosphere What to do in the moment when emotions are high (for both mom and child) Why logic doesn’t work during meltdowns, and what does instead Simple ways to calm yourself and your child (including “Holy Spirit breaths”) The importance of daily connection to prevent repeated outbursts How to respond when a child pushes you away Encouragement for moms who feel like they’re “not enough.”To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool PodcastGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 04 May 2026 - 40min - 297 - Charlotte Mason Homeschooling 101: What It Is (and What It Isn’t) | Ep. 282
What is a Charlotte Mason education? And is it really as overwhelming as it seems?
In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with veteran homeschool mom and educator Jen Mackintosh Weaver to break down Charlotte Mason homeschooling in simple, practical terms. Jen explains what this philosophy truly is (and what it isn’t), why it’s far more flexible than most parents think, and how it can be adapted to any season of family life.
From living books and narration to building attention and fostering meaningful relationships, this conversation will help you cut through the confusion and discover whether Charlotte Mason might be a good fit for your homeschool.
Whether you’re brand new to homeschooling or looking to simplify what you’re already doing, this episode is a must-listen.
Thank You to Our SponsorAt Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit through online dual enrollment.
Learn more at: https://franciscan.edu/advantage/
SHOW NOTES Resources Mentioned: Jen’s website: https://wildflowersandmarbles.com The Morning Basket (article):
https://wildflowersandmarbles.com/2009/08/05/the-morning-basket/ The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald:
https://amzn.to/4tSfQyF Mater Amabilis (free Catholic Charlotte Mason curriculum):
https://materamabilis.org/ma/ Catholic Charlotte Mason Primer:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/catholic-charlotte-mason/ Homeschool Connections Reading Lists:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/reading-lists/
What We Cover in This Episode: What a Charlotte Mason education actually is—and common misconceptions Why Charlotte Mason is simpler and more flexible than it appears The difference between “living books” and textbooks How narration works (and why it’s a powerful form of assessment) What a typical Charlotte Mason homeschool day looks like The importance of short lessons and building attention How this method fosters independence and lifelong learning Why relationships are at the heart of Charlotte Mason education How to start small without becoming overwhelmed Adapting your homeschool during difficult seasons (illness, grief, major life changes) The importance of margin, flexibility, and trusting the processTo discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool PodcastGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 27 Apr 2026 - 49min - 296 - Should Your Child Learn Latin? The Surprising Benefits! | Ep. 281
Is Latin really a “dead language” or is it one of the most powerful tools you can give your child?
In this episode, host Kaitlin Zara talks with Homeschool Connections instructor Debbie Gaudino about why Latin still matters today. From strengthening vocabulary and grammar to building discipline, perseverance, and even deepening faith, Latin offers far more than most parents realize.
Debbie shares practical advice for getting started (even if you’ve never studied Latin yourself), how to motivate reluctant learners, and why learning Latin can connect students to their cultural and spiritual heritage in a profound way.
If you’ve ever wondered whether Latin is worth it for your homeschool, this conversation will change the way you think about it.
Thank You to Our Sponsor!
At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit through online dual enrollment.
Learn more at: https://franciscan.edu/advantage/
Resources Mentioned: Latin Tutorial YouTube Channel (great starting point):
https://www.youtube.com/@latintutorial Debbie Gaudino Instructor Page:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/instructors/debbie-gaudino/
What We Cover in This Episode: Is Latin really a “dead language”? Why it’s actually everywhere today How Latin strengthens vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills Why Latin is especially helpful for science, law, medicine, and Romance languages The best age to introduce Latin (and why younger is often better) How Latin builds discipline, patience, and perseverance in students Why Latin is like solving a puzzle—and why that matters in today’s fast-paced world How Latin connects students to history, culture, and the Catholic faith Real-life examples of Latin in everyday language (like “veto” and “etc.”) Practical tips for parents who feel unprepared to teach Latin How to motivate reluctant learners The importance of doing hard things—and the long-term rewardsTo discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool PodcastGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 20 Apr 2026 - 30min - 295 - Starting a Homeschool Co-op Without Burning Out | Ep. 280
Thank You to Our Sponsor:
Lindsay’s journey from public school teacher to homeschool leader Why bigger isn’t always better The “year of no” and resetting priorities How to discern your community’s real needs Why simplicity is key Avoiding burnout while serving others Encouraging parents to step into teaching roles
John Paul the Great Catholic University offers hands-on programs in creative arts, digital media, theology, and business in a faithfully Catholic environment. Apply for free and explore free storytelling courses: https://jpcatholic.edu/landingpages/homeschool-connections/ Description:
Thinking about starting a homeschool co-op—but worried about overwhelm? Lindsay Carpenter shares her real-life journey from burnout in a large co-op to building a simple, thriving, faith-centered homeschool community. Learn how to balance service and family life, avoid common pitfalls, and create something that truly works for your family.
Show Notes:
Lindsay's book: Where Is Jesus Hidden, https://amzn.to/4dKi5Ph Short video with Lindsay on how she implements HSC classes into her co-op: https://youtu.be/XzUx8nvuCMw?si=2aqM3wBX3wV3TE0V
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool PodcastGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Tue, 14 Apr 2026 - 36min - 294 - How One Homeschool Mom Built a Thriving Catholic Community | Ep 279
Today's sponsor is Franciscan University of Steubenville.
What if opening your home could transform an entire community?
In this inspiring episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Kathleen Billings—Catholic speaker, author, and homeschool mom—to share the incredible story of how her family began hosting small gatherings that grew into monthly events of 200–300 people.
Kathleen shares how a leap of faith led her family to a new state, how simple acts of hospitality turned into a powerful ministry, and how prayer, marriage, and trust in God sustain it all. If you’ve ever longed for deeper community or felt called to something more, this episode will encourage you to take that first step.
Show Notes:
Resources Mentioned: Smart Martha’s Catholic Guide for Busy Moms by Tami Kiser: https://amzn.to/4bXXwMP
Your Holy Family Ministries: https://yourholyfamily.org/
Troy & Kathleen Billings’ ministry and book Simply Love: https://godsplan4u.info/
Additional Resources:
Go on pilgrimage with the Billings: https://selectinternationaltours.com/troy-and-kathleen-billings/
Kathleen’s son David’s website: https://godsplan4u.info/
Thank You to Our Sponsor:
This episode is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville. At Franciscan University, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. Twenty percent of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background.
High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s dual enrollment program. Learn more at https://franciscan.edu/advantage/
In this episode, we discuss:
Kathleen’s family's move and a leap of faith during COVID. How a simple rosary gathering grew into a 300-person monthly event. Building Catholic community through hospitality and consistency. Practical ways to create connection in your own homeschool life. The role of marriage and prayer in sustaining family ministry. Trusting God’s call—even when you don’t have all the detailsKathleen's Biography:
Kathleen Billings is a national Catholic speaker and an award-winning author. She and her husband, Troy, have five children, one son-in-law, one grandchild on the way, and 4 souls in Heaven.
She resides with her family on their 5-acre homestead in South Carolina. Kathleen has written for Catholic Mom, WINE- Women in the New Evangelization, and had a blog entitled “Two to Tango” in the For Your Marriage section of the USCCB Website.
She is also a contributing author to the book, Amazing Grace for Mothers (Ascension Press) and Called by Name - 365 Daily Devotions for Catholic Women (Ave Maria Press).
Kathleen and her husband, Troy, are the co-authors of the award-winning book Simply Love: Catholic Marriage Day by Day, published by Our Sunday Visitor. Kathleen and her husband Tory’s website where you can learn more about their ministries: troyandkathleenbillings.com
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool PodcastGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 06 Apr 2026 - 35min - 293 - How (and Why) to Introduce Politics into Your Catholic Homeschool | Ep 278
Should politics be part of your homeschool curriculum?
Many parents hesitate to introduce political discussions at home, especially in today’s polarized culture. However, avoiding the topic entirely may leave our children unprepared to understand the world they are inheriting.
In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Catholic journalist Erika Ahern, producer and host of The Deep and co-host of Catholic Vote’s LOOPcast, to discuss how homeschooling parents can thoughtfully introduce politics and current events into their family life.
Erika shares practical advice for helping children develop a healthy understanding of politics while keeping their formation rooted in faith, truth, and Catholic principles.
Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeCatholic Classical Homeschool Curricula:
Mother of Divine Grace School, https://modg.org/ Kolbe Academy, https://www.kolbe.org/ Homeschool Connections, https://homeschoolconnections.com/The Story of Civilization – Phillip Campbell: https://tanbooks.com/homeschool/shop-by-product-line/story-of-civilization/
Zeale – A teenager-safe news source: https://zeale.co/
The LOOPcast Podcast (CatholicVote): https://catholicvote.org/podcast/
The LOOPcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theLOOPcast
Articles by Erika Ahern (CatholicVote): https://catholicvote.org/author/erika-ahern/
SponsorThis episode is sponsored by John Paul the Great Catholic University.
John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs within creative arts, digital media, theology, and business in a faithfully Catholic environment.
Apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses at:
About Our Guest
👉 jpcatholic.edu/homeschoolErika Ahern is a Catholic journalist and media professional. She is the producer and host of The Deep and co-host of CatholicVote’s LOOPcast.
Her writing has appeared in:
USA Today
Washington Examiner
National Catholic Register
RealClear Politics
RealClear Religion
The Daily Caller
Crisis Magazine
Erika regularly appears on podcasts, talk radio, and television programs, including Newsmax, Relevant Radio, and EWTN.
She lives outside New Haven, Connecticut, with her husband and their seven children.
In this episode we discuss:
Why Catholic families should not avoid political conversations
How to introduce current events in an age-appropriate way
Safe news sources for teens and older students
How history helps children understand today’s political landscape
Practical resources for integrating current events into your homeschool
If you’ve ever wondered when and how to begin discussing politics with your children, this episode will give you thoughtful guidance and helpful resources.
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool PodcastGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 30 Mar 2026 - 39min - 292 - The Homeschool Mom’s Ultimate Morning Routine (Body, Mind, & Soul) | Ep 277
Feeling overstimulated, exhausted, or like you have nothing left to give by midday?
You’re not alone.
In this encouraging conversation, Kaitlin sits down with Catholic author, speaker, and homeschooling mom Stephanie Weinert, founder of Mother & Home, to talk about how moms can build a life-giving morning routine that supports their body, mind, and soul.
Stephanie shares the lessons she learned through years of homeschooling during difficult seasons—including miscarriages, exhaustion, and burnout—and how God led her to a more ordered and grace-filled way of living.
Instead of chasing the latest “mom hacks” or social media trends, Stephanie explains how Catholic mothers can anchor their days in prayer, healthy habits, and hope.
SponsorThis episode is sponsored by Fiat Life Coaching.
Emily Brown from Fiat Life Coaching offers premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms to learn essential skills to manage their time, other people's behavior, and their own mental and emotional well-being.
Learn more about her signature program, The Happy, Holy Mama Membership, at:
About Our GuestStephanie Weinert is the founder of Mother & Home, a ministry and marketplace dedicated to encouraging mothers in the dignity and importance of their vocation within the home.
She is a Catholic wife, mother, writer, and media personality who previously served as a radio host for EWTN Global Catholic Network before stepping away from her career to focus on her family.
A convert to Catholicism and second-generation homeschooler, Stephanie is passionate about Scripture study, Catholic motherhood, and encouraging women in their spiritual lives.
She speaks nationally and internationally on topics including faith, homeschooling, family life, and suffering as part of the Christian journey.
Learn more and follow Stephanie here:
🌐 Website: https://motherandhome.co
Catholic Homeschool Podcast
📷 Instagram: Catholic Homeschool BlogGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 23 Mar 2026 - 34min - 291 - Homeschooling Photography: The Power of Creative Subjects | Ep 276
Episode Description
Creative subjects are often the first to get pushed aside in education—but they may be some of the most important.
In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with online instructor and professional photographer Victoria Cerise to discuss why creative outlets like photography play a vital role in a student’s development.
Victoria explains how creative subjects help students slow down, become more aware of the world around them, and grow in confidence. She also shares how photography can strengthen academic learning across subjects—from science and history to literature—and encourage curiosity about God’s creation.
The conversation also includes practical advice for parents who want to introduce photography into their homeschool, even if they have no experience themselves.
Whether your child is interested in photography, writing, art, or another creative pursuit, this episode offers encouragement and ideas to nurture those passions and help students develop skills that last a lifetime.
Show Notes Resources MentionedVictoria’s Photography Website
https://mysticalrosephotos.com/Victoria’s Homeschool Connections Instructor Page
https://homeschoolconnections.com/instructors/victoria-cerise/Victoria’s Photography Courses
https://caravel.homeschoolconnections.com/catalog/table?tableSearch=photographyRecommended Camera: Canon T3i (Canon Rebel Series)
Thank You to Our Sponsor
https://amzn.to/4sGwkbPThis episode is sponsored by John Paul the Great Catholic University.
John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs in creative arts, digital media, theology, and business within a faithfully Catholic environment.
Students explore storytelling, filmmaking, animation, and entrepreneurship while growing in their faith.
You can apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses at:
About Our Guest
jpcatholic.edu/homeschoolVictoria Cerise is a Homeschool Connections instructor and professional Catholic wedding photographer.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The College of New Jersey and previously worked as an emergency department nurse. Today, she combines her passion for science education and photography to help students see the beauty of God’s design in the world around them.
Victoria, who was homeschooled herself, teaches science and photography courses through Homeschool Connections. She is also active in pro-life advocacy and enjoys learning new homemaking skills in her log cabin home.
In This Episode We Discuss Why Creative Subjects MatterHow creative outlets support emotional and mental health
Why recreation and creativity are essential for human flourishing
Building healthy alternatives to passive entertainment like social media
How Photography Builds ConfidenceWhy photography is an accessible creative skill for beginners
How quick success encourages students to keep learning
The role of encouragement and feedback in building confidence
The Hidden Educational Benefits of PhotographyLearning to slow down and observe the world more intentionally
Developing situational awareness and attention to detail
Discovering beauty in God’s creation
Photography Across the CurriculumUsing photography in science lessons (erosion, nature observation)
Creative assignments tied to literature and faith
Exploring historical locations and visual context
Encouraging Student-Led LearningHow photography sparks curiosity about the natural world
Letting students follow their interests and ask questions
Turning everyday observations into learning opportunities
Practical Tips for ParentsStarting photography, even if you have no experience
Using YouTube tutorials and structured courses
Bringing cameras along on hikes, zoo trips, and family outings
Choosing a Beginner CameraRecommended starter camera:
Encouraging Creative Career Paths
Canon Rebel series (such as the Canon T3i)
Affordable options can often be found on eBay or Facebook Marketplace.Why parents should nurture creative passions rather than discourage them
The value of mentorship and shadowing professionals
Remembering that hobbies themselves are valuable, even if they never become careers
Grab your coffee and let's homeschool together!
Mon, 16 Mar 2026 - 32min - 290 - Homeschooling a Large Family: Tips and Insights | Ep 275
How do you homeschool when your family keeps growing?
In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Chantal Howard, founder of Catholic Finishing Schooland mother of seven, to talk about the joys and challenges of homeschooling a large family.
Chantal shares practical wisdom from her own homeschooling journey—raising children from newborn to college age while managing family life, work, and faith. She discusses how to cultivate independence in children, adapt to different learning styles, and maintain peace in a busy household.
From anchoring the day with prayer to embracing the flexibility that homeschooling provides, Chantal encourages parents to see family life itself as a powerful school of virtue and formation.
If you’ve ever wondered how homeschooling works with a big family—or felt overwhelmed by the idea—this episode offers encouragement, practical tips, and a reminder that God provides the grace needed for the vocation of parenthood.
Show Notes Thank You to Our SponsorThis episode is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville.
At Franciscan University, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. Twenty percent of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background.
High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s dual enrollment program.
Learn more at Franciscan.edu
About Our GuestChantal Howard is the founder of Catholic Finishing School, a formation movement devoted to helping young Catholic women and their mothers grow in virtue, beauty, and authentic femininity.
A seasoned life and business coach with more than ten years of experience, Chantal integrates her passion for Catholic culture, natural living, entrepreneurship, and family life to inspire women to flourish body, mind, and soul.
She is also the author of The School of the Family: A Renaissance of Catholic Formation, which explores how families can become centers of virtue and culture in the modern world.
Chantal lives in Sandpoint, Idaho with her husband, Dr. Peter Howard, and their seven children.
Resources MentionedCatholic Finishing School (Special discount link for listeners):
https://catholicfinishingschool.com/connections/Chantal Howard Website:
https://www.chantal-howard.com/Chantal Howard Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/coach.chantal.howard/Homeschool Connections Course Catalog:
In This Episode, We Discuss Starting the Homeschool Day with Faith
https://caravel.homeschoolconnections.com/catalogWhy the family rosary anchors their homeschool day
Creating a spiritual rhythm in family life
Integrating prayer into everyday routines
Homeschooling Multiple Ages at OnceManaging learning for children from infants to teens
Creating “pods” of learning within the home
Encouraging independent study
Fostering a Love of LearningWhy homeschooling isn’t about recreating school at home
How curiosity and freedom cultivate motivated learners
Encouraging children to pursue their interests
Adapting to Different Learning StylesWhy no single curriculum works for every child
Being flexible with educational approaches
Letting go of perfection and trusting the process
Homeschooling During Pregnancy and PostpartumEmbracing seasons of life
Allowing older children to help with family responsibilities
Letting “life itself” become a teacher
Managing the Chaos of a Large FamilyCreating “zones” for focused learning
Using technology wisely when needed
Allowing homeschool schedules to remain flexible
Teaching Responsibility at HomeWhy chores are part of a child’s formation
Creating a family team mentality
Raising capable and responsible young adults
Self-Care for Homeschool MomsEstablishing daily routines and rhythms
The importance of prayer and spiritual habits
Finding small moments of peace in a busy day
Encouragement for Parents Homeschooling Large FamiliesWhy parents shouldn’t fear the challenge
The value of family culture and formation
Trusting that God fills the gaps in our efforts
Mon, 09 Mar 2026 - 34min - 289 - Fitness in the Homeschool Life: Raising Strong Minds and Bodies | Ep 274
In this energizing episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with online history instructor and newly certified personal trainer Phillip Campbell to talk about the vital role of health and fitness in homeschooling.
Phillip shares his personal transformation journey—from struggling with fatigue and poor bloodwork in his late 30s to becoming a certified trainer through the American Council on Exercise.
They discuss:
Why sedentary lifestyles are quietly damaging our kids’ health
How diet affects focus, mood, and academic performance
The importance of building muscle and bone density early
Practical, low-cost ways to implement cardio and strength training at home
How tracking fitness progress builds agency and self-esteem
If you’ve ever wondered how to integrate intentional physical training into your homeschool day, or how to help your teen build lifelong healthy habits, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement.
Thank You to Our SponsorThis episode is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville.
At Franciscan University, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. Twenty percent of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background!
High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s dual enrollment program.
Learn more at Franciscan.edu
Show Notes About Our GuestPhillip Campbell is a longtime history instructor for Homeschool Connections and author of the popular Story of Civilization series from TAN Books. He holds a degree in European history from Ave Maria University and a degree in Secondary Education from Madonna University. Recently, Phillip completed the American Council on Exercise certification program and is now a certified personal trainer.
Resources MentionedPhillip’s HSC Author Page:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=228687Helping Teens Understand Real Nutrition:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/helping-teens-understand-real-nutrition/Finding Happiness article: https://catholicexchange.com/happiness-is-close-at-hand-using-the-sermon-on-the-mount-as-an-antidote-to-anxiety/
More Health & Fitness Articles:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/physical-education-pe/Phillip’s Website:
https://phillipcampbell.net/Phillip’s Online Courses:
In This Episode, We Discuss
https://caravel.homeschoolconnections.com/catalog/table?tableFilters[instructors][value]=43Phillip’s Personal Health Transformation
His wake-up call in his late 30s
Reversing poor bloodwork and chronic pain
The power of incremental progress
Becoming ACE certified
Mental Benefits of Exercise for Homeschoolers
Improved focus and sustained energy
Reduced lethargy and depressive symptoms
Increased confidence and self-esteem
Building a sense of personal agency
The Sedentary Culture Problem
The health risks tied to inactivity
Why “just running around” isn’t enough
The need for intentional strength and cardio training
Nutrition & Academic Performance
Why teens need sufficient calories (especially girls)
The danger of under-eating and hidden eating disorders
Simple vs. complex carbohydrates
Avoiding fad diets and food demonization
Simple, realistic meal strategies for busy homeschool families
How Much Exercise Do Kids Need?
A practical rule of thumb for sedentary hours
Structuring weekly fitness: cardio + strength + flexibility
Why progressive overload matters
Simple At-Home Fitness Ideas
Walking + sprint intervals
Jump rope
Push-ups, planks, and calisthenics
Dumbbells and kettlebells
Tracking progress with written logs
Making fitness interdisciplinary (math + science + data tracking!)
Building Agency Through Fitness
Why measurable progress matters
How strength training builds confidence
Competing against yourself, not others
Mon, 02 Mar 2026 - 39min - 288 - Homeschooling Shakespeare: The Magic of Backyard Theater | Ep 273
Can Shakespeare come alive in your backyard?
In this heartwarming and inspiring episode, Kaitlin Zara talks with Mary Ellen Barrett, founder of the Front Lawn Players—a homeschool theater troupe that performed Shakespeare plays on backyards for 14 years.
From handmade costumes and thrifted sets to children memorizing complex scripts and growing in confidence, Mary Ellen shares how homemade theater became a transformative educational and spiritual experience for her family and community. She offers practical advice for homeschool moms who want to incorporate drama into their learning, without needing Broadway budgets or perfect homes.
You’ll be inspired to embrace creativity, community, and even a little chaos for the sake of something beautiful.
SponsorThank you to our sponsor: Franciscan University of Steubenville
About Our Guest: Mary Ellen Barrett
At Franciscan University, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. Twenty percent of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background!
High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s dual enrollment program.Mary Ellen Barrett is a homeschooling mother from Long Island and a founder of the Front Lawn Players, a backyard Shakespeare troupe that performed 14 plays over 14 years.
Mary Ellen also serves as the Chairman of the Board at Seton Home Study School, editor at Seton Magazine, and podcaster at Stay at Homeschooling Moms
Follow Mary Ellen on Substack:
https://maryellenbarrett.substack.com/Explore Homeschool Connections’ online Shakespeare courses.
In This Episode, We Discuss:How six homeschool moms started performing Shakespeare on their front lawns.
Why seeing and hearing Shakespeare first makes it accessible to kids.
The difference between reading Shakespeare and performing it.
How performance builds confidence and lifelong public speaking skills.
The interdisciplinary power of theater (literature, history, math, art, music).
Creating elaborate productions on a homeschool schedule.
Why May became “Shakespeare season” in their homes.
Hosting public backyard performances (and even performing at Westbury Gardens!).
The deep community formed among the moms and families.
The powerful story of Mary Ellen’s son Ryan and the gift of acceptance through theater.
Making space for neurodivergent and differently-abled children in creative work.
Letting go of perfection (yes—even the sticky kitchen floor).
Practical advice for starting your own homeschool theater group.
Key Takeaways1. Start Small
Begin with simple costumes, a backyard, and a short play. Grow gradually each year.
2. Performance Makes Shakespeare Click
Watch it. Hear it. Experience it. Once children see it performed, the language becomes accessible.
3. Theater Builds More Than Academic Skills
Drama fosters poise, moral imagination, confidence, friendship, and belonging.
4. Play to Your Strengths
Sew, cook, build, direct, organize—every mom can contribute in her own way.
5. Community Changes Everything
The Front Lawn Players wasn’t just about Shakespeare—it created lifelong friendships for moms and children alike
Encouragement for Homeschool MomsYou don’t need a stage.
You don’t need perfection.
You don’t need a spotless house.You do need creativity, courage, and community.
As Mary Ellen beautifully reminds us, no one will remember the messy kitchen floor—but your children will remember the magic you created together.
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool PodcastGrab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 23 Feb 2026 - 31min - 287 - Fearless Homeschooling: Choosing a Philosophy | Ep 272
With so many homeschool philosophies to choose from—Charlotte Mason, classical, unschooling, eclectic—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. How do you choose the right approach, especially when you’re raising multiple children with very different personalities?
In this encouraging and practical episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with veteran homeschooling mom of seven, Bonnie Landry. Bonnie homeschooled for 32 years and shares how she built a peaceful, relationship-first home without rigid rewards, pressure-heavy academics, or fear-based decision-making.
From teaching bookish learners and high-energy boys under one roof to prioritizing connection over conflict, Bonnie offers wisdom for homeschooling moms who want confidence, clarity, and joy—especially in large families.
If you’ve ever worried about falling behind, choosing the “wrong” philosophy, or losing your identity as a nurturing mom while becoming the “teacher,” this conversation will renew your courage.
Show NotesSponsor: Franciscan University of Steubenville
About Our Guest: Bonnie Landry
At Franciscan University, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. Twenty percent of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background!
High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s dual enrollment program.Bonnie Landry is a Catholic wife and mother of seven, living on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Five of her children are now married, and she is a grandmother to twelve. Bonnie homeschooled for 32 years and now hosts the podcast Make Joy Normal: Cozy Homeschooling, where she shares encouragement on homeschooling, community, babies, and cultivating joy in family life.
Her mission is simple: Make joy normal.
Podcast: https://makejoynormal.buzzsprout.com/
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Recommended Book: The Three R’s by Ruth BeechickBonnie’s 32-year homeschooling journey, raising seven children
Teaching multiple personalities under one roof
Multi-sensory learning in a large family
Why relationship comes before academics
A peaceful alternative to rewards and consequences
How removing pressure can increase academic success
Creating independent learners without a rigid curriculum
Balancing bookish children with high-energy kids
Managing one-on-one time when toddlers are underfoot
Why “falling behind” may not be what you think
Being fearless in your homeschool decisions
The importance of real-life community for homeschooling moms
Key Takeaways from BonnieConnection fuels cooperation.
Prioritizing relationship over control creates long-term trust and willingness.You don’t need pressure to produce strong academics.
Bonnie’s children thrived in college and university without a heavy academic hand.Homeschool philosophy should serve relationships, not the other way around.
The real question isn’t “Which curriculum?” but “How can I foster strong relationships in my home?”Large family homeschooling can be peaceful.
Short lessons, shared family studies, and intentional breaks make it sustainable.Be fearless.
God gave you your children and the grace to educate them.
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 - 32min - 286 - Embracing Quirkiness: Understanding Neurodivergent Kids | Ep 271
"Different” doesn’t mean broken. It means beautifully designed.
In this heartfelt and deeply affirming episode, Kaitlin is joined by Ginny Kochis, neurodivergent parent coach, author, and founder of Quirky Catholic Kids, for an honest conversation about raising neurodivergent children with confidence, compassion, and faith. Drawing on her experience as a former teacher, homeschool mom, and mother of three twice-exceptional children, Ginny guides listeners through the journey from fear and shame to understanding, acceptance, and peace.
Together, they explore evaluations, homeschooling myths, accessing services, social challenges, and the profound blessings that come with raising “quirky” kids. This episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating neurodiversity—especially Catholic homeschooling families seeking encouragement, clarity, and hope.
Show NotesIn this episode, we discuss:
What it really means to be a “quirky” or neurodivergent child Why being different does not mean being broken Ginny’s personal journey raising three twice-exceptional children The emotional reality parents face after a diagnosis—and why diagnosis is a tool, not a label When (and why) parents should consider evaluations, even if they plan to homeschool How homeschooling, public school, and private school can each support neurodivergent kids What services (IEPs, 504s, therapies) are available—and how homeschoolers can still access them How to navigate homeschool meetups, co-ops, and social situations with confidence Practical tips for preventing and managing sensory overload and meltdowns Common myths about homeschooling neurodivergent children—and why they’re wrong The unexpected blessings, growth, and joy that come with raising neurodivergent kidsSponsor
Fiat Life Coaching
Emily Brown from Fiat Life Coaching offers premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms to learn essential skills to manage their time, other people’s behavior, and their own mental and emotional well-being.
Learn more about her signature program, the Happy, Holy Mama Membership, athttps://fiatlifecoaching.ontralink.com/tl/6You can also find Emily and Fiat Life Coaching on social media at:
Happy Holy Moma Podcast, https://www.youtube.com/@happyholymama Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/fiatlifecoaching/ Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100072621575204 YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/@happyholymamaFeatured Guest
Ginny Kochis is a Catholic wife and mom to three twice-exceptional children. A former high school English teacher and adjunct professor, she holds an MA in Teaching Writing and Literature and has over 20 years of experience educating children of all ability levels. Through Quirky Catholic Kids, Ginny offers practical support and prayerful encouragement to Catholic families raising neurodivergent children. She believes God gives curious, creative, intense children the exact mother they need to thrive.Resources & Links:
Ginny’s Website: https://ginnykochis.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quirkycatholickids/
Books by Ginny: https://amzn.to/4s33xPh
Homeschool Connections: https://homeschoolconnections.com/
Dual Enrollment with Franciscan University at Homeschool Connections:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/resources/college-credit/If you’ve ever felt isolated, unsure, or overwhelmed raising a neurodivergent child, this episode will meet you right where you are—and remind you that you are not alone.
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/ Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/ The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 09 Feb 2026 - 48min - 285 - Revolutionizing History Education Through Gamification | Ep 270
Why do so many students find history boring, and how can we change that?
In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with Zack Edwards, educator, game designer, and CEO of Historical Conquest, to explore how storytelling and gamification can completely transform the way children learn history. Drawing from his own negative experiences with traditional history education, Zack shares how interactive games, emotional connection, and goal-oriented learning dramatically improve engagement and retention.
This conversation is especially encouraging for homeschool parents who want to move beyond textbooks and worksheets and help their children love learning. From understanding learning styles to creating meaningful educational experiences that stick, Zack offers practical insights—and inspiring examples—of what education can look like when it’s fun, personal, and purposeful.
Show NotesIn this episode, we discuss:
Why history is often taught in a way that disconnects students from real people and real stories
How storytelling creates emotional attachment—and why that matters for long-term retention
The difference between true gamification and “educational junk food” apps
How games can boost retention rates far beyond lectures and rote memorization
Why homeschoolers are uniquely positioned to personalize education
The role of competition, goals, and rewards in motivating learners
Understanding and supporting different learning styles at home
How gamified learning can strengthen family connection—not replace it
Why safe, values-aligned alternatives to mainstream gaming platforms matter
Featured Guest:
Zack Edwards is an educator, game designer, and CEO of Historical Conquest, as well as President of Xogos Gaming—an educational gaming platform offering a safe, standards-aligned alternative to mainstream online games. His mission is to make learning engaging, memorable, and meaningful through play.Resources & Links:
Email Zack: https://www.xogosgaming.com/
Historical Conquest on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoricalConquest
Whether you’re a homeschool parent, educator, or simply someone who wants kids to love learning again, this episode will leave you inspired—and full of practical ideas you can use right away.
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 02 Feb 2026 - 40min - 284 - The Importance of Homeschool Community Support: Navigating Grief | Ep 269
Grief looks different for everyone—but no one is meant to carry it alone.
In this deeply moving episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara welcomes back Catholic author, speaker, and homeschooling mother of ten, Kendra Tierney Norton, for a candid and compassionate conversation about walking through grief while homeschooling.
Kendra shares reflections from her family’s 16-year journey through her husband Jim’s cancer diagnosis, treatment, hospice, and passing, all while continuing to homeschool and raise their children. Rather than offering formulas or platitudes, Kendra speaks honestly about what sustained her: faith, community, Catholic tradition, and the quiet strength of daily responsibilities.
Together, Kaitlin and Kendra discuss:
Why grief cannot—and should not—be rushed or standardized
How homeschooling can foster resilience during seasons of hardship
The irreplaceable role of Catholic community in times of loss
Why accepting help is not weakness, but humility
How liturgical living and prayer anchor families during uncertainty
Whether you are navigating grief, caregiving, chronic hardship, or emotional exhaustion, this episode offers reassurance, wisdom, and gentle encouragement to lean into the support God has already placed around you.
SponsorFranciscan University of Steubenville
About Our Guest
At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
✨ Did you know? Nearly 20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background.
🎓 High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s Dual Enrollment Program.
Learn more at franciscan.eduKendra Tierney Norton is a Catholic author, speaker, and the voice behind Catholic All Year. She is a homeschooling mother of ten and has been a longtime advocate for liturgical living and faith-filled family culture.
🔗 Connect with Kendra:
Previous podcast episodes:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts_category/kendra-tierney-catholic-homeschooling/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendra_tierney_norton/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catholicallyear/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KendraTierneyCAY/
Website: https://catholicallyear.com/
To discover support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com
Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 26 Jan 2026 - 27min - 283 - How to Transition from School to Homeschool: One Family’s Journey of Starting Midway | Ep 268
What happens when the school that once seemed perfect suddenly isn’t working anymore?
In this episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with author and speaker Rachel Bulman to talk about her family’s decision to begin homeschooling during the middle school years—and why making the switch midstream was one of the best decisions they ever made.
Rachel shares the real story behind leaving a rigorous charter/IB environment, how “deschooling” helped ease the transition, and what she learned about her children’s learning styles once they were home. She also offers practical encouragement for moms who worry about rigor, socialization, and structure—especially when homeschooling wasn’t part of their original plan.
If you’ve been thinking about homeschooling (even if it’s midyear), this conversation will give you clarity, peace, and confidence to take the next step.
✅ Show Notes Sponsor: Franciscan University of Steubenville (FUS)At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
Meet Our Guest: Rachel Bulman
✨ 20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background!
Plus, high school juniors and seniors can earn college credit online through Franciscan’s Dual Enrollment program.
Learn more at Franciscan.edu.Rachel Bulman is an author, speaker, and homeschooling mom who began homeschooling her children during the middle school years after discovering that their rigorous school environment wasn’t providing the support, communication, or enrichment her family needed.
In this episode, Rachel shares her family’s honest journey from traditional schooling into homeschooling—and the spiritual, emotional, and practical blessings that followed.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear✅ Why Rachel’s family chose to homeschool during middle school
Links & Resources
✅ The role “deschooling” played in helping the transition go smoothly
✅ How homeschooling revealed each child’s unique learning style
✅ How to create rigor at home without copying a school model
✅ How her children stayed socially connected without daily classroom interaction
✅ Why intentional friendships are real-world socialization (not a “homeschool weakness”)
✅ The biggest challenges: accountability, motivation, and consistency
✅ The greatest blessing: forming virtue, responsibility, and real family life skills🌐 Rachel’s website: https://www.rachelbulman.com/
Helpful Homeschool Connections Blog Articles
📚 Rachel’s books: https://amzn.to/4bFNtgD
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelbulman
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachelbulman📌 Deschooling: https://homeschoolconnections.com/how-to-deschool/
📌 How to Start Homeschooling Midyear: https://homeschoolconnections.com/how-to-start-homeschooling-midyear/
📌 Middle School Articles: https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/middle-school/
📌 Unschooling Articles: https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/unschooling/To discover support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com
Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 19 Jan 2026 - 35min - 282 - Reviving Classical Education: Why the CLT Matters More Than Ever | Ep 267
What is classical education—and why are more Catholic and homeschool families turning to it right now?
In today's episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with Jeremy Tate, founder and CEO of the Classic Learning Test (CLT), to explore why classical education is making a major comeback and how it forms students not only academically, but morally and spiritually.
Jeremy explains what sets classical learning apart from modern schooling, how the CLT serves as a powerful alternative to the SAT/ACT, and why cultivating virtue, critical thinking, and a love for truth matters more than ever in a culture shaped by technology and AI.
Show Notes Sponsor: Fiat Life CoachingEmily Brown from Fiat Life Coaching offers premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms to learn essential skills to manage their time, other people’s behavior, and their own mental and emotional wellbeing.
Meet Our Guest: Jeremy Tate
Learn more about her signature program, the Happy, Holy Mama Membership, at fiatlifecoaching.com.Jeremy Tate is the founder and CEO of the Classic Learning Test (CLT), a standardized testing alternative rooted in classical education and the Great Books tradition. The CLT is accepted by a growing number of colleges and universities and is increasingly popular among homeschool families and classical schools.
Links & Resources🌐 CLT Website: https://www.cltexam.com/
In This Episode We Discuss
🐦 Jeremy Tate on X: https://x.com/JeremyTate41
📸 CLT on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cltexam/
📘 CLT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CLTexam/
🎙 Anchored Podcast (CLT): https://www.cltexam.com/podcasts/✅ What “classical education” actually means—and why it matters today
✅ How classical learning forms virtue, reasoning, and wisdom
✅ The difference between education for formation vs. education for outcomes
✅ Why more families are moving away from conventional school models
✅ How the CLT compares to the SAT/ACT
✅ Why standardized testing doesn’t have to undermine Christian formation
✅ The rise of AI in education—and why it makes classical learning more relevant
✅ Encouraging Catholic homeschoolers to stay focused on enduring truthsMon, 12 Jan 2026 - 32min - 281 - Prayer as a Way of Life: Raising Children Who Talk to God Naturally | Ep. 266
How do we teach our children to pray without turning prayer into just another item on the to-do list?
In this heartfelt and deeply moving episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Shannon Wendt—founder of Chews Life, author, speaker, and homeschooling mom of eight—to talk about cultivating a prayer life that feels natural, authentic, and sustaining for the whole family.
Shannon shares powerful insights from her own journey through grief, miscarriage, and spiritual desolation, revealing how the Rosary became a lifeline not only for her healing, but for the spiritual culture of her home. Together, Kaitlin and Shannon explore how prayer can become a constant conversation with God throughout the homeschool day, how to persevere when prayer feels dry or messy, and why simply showing up matters more than doing it “perfectly.”
This episode offers encouragement for moms who feel overwhelmed, stuck in a prayer rut, or worried they’re not “doing enough.” If you long to help your children experience prayer as peace rather than pressure, this conversation will meet you right where you are.
📌 Show NotesIn this episode, you’ll hear about:
Why prayer works best when it’s woven into daily life, not scheduled perfectly
How simple, spoken prayer throughout the day forms children spiritually
Letting go of Pinterest-perfect expectations for family prayer
Teaching kids to turn instinctively to prayer during struggles and conflicts
Praying the Rosary in small, realistic ways—especially with busy families
What to do when prayer feels dry, awkward, or emotionally difficult
Shannon’s powerful testimony of healing through the Rosary after miscarriage
How Our Lady gently leads hearts back to Christ during seasons of suffering
Why the “only ineffective prayer is the one you never start.”
Sponsor:
💙 Fiat Life Coaching
Emily Brown from Fiat Life Coaching offers premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms to learn essential skills to manage their time, other people’s behavior, and their own mental and emotional wellbeing.
👉 Learn more about the Happy, Holy Mama Membership at fiatlifecoaching.comLinks & Resources Mentioned:
Chews Life: https://chewslife.com/
Rosary Bracelets: https://chewslife.com/collections/rosaries-rosary-bracelets
The Way of the Rosary (Book & Journals): https://chewslife.com/collections/the-way-of-the-rosary
Follow Shannon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chewslifeshannon/Homeschool Connections Prayer Classes:
https://caravel.homeschoolconnections.com/catalog/table?tableSearch=prayTo discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/ Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/ The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 05 Jan 2026 - 38min - 280 - Then and Now: Homeschooling Over Three Decades | Ep 265
What does homeschooling look like after 30 years—and what has really changed?
In this encouraging and honest conversation, Kaitlin Zara sits down with veteran homeschool mom, author, and mentor Susie Lloyd, who homeschooled seven children over three decades. Together, they reflect on how homeschooling has evolved, what challenges remain timeless, and why perseverance, patience, and prayer matter more than ever.
From building community from scratch to resisting curriculum overload, from navigating skepticism to trusting God’s long game, Susie offers wisdom and reassurance for today’s homeschool parents—especially those feeling overwhelmed or discouraged. This episode is a reminder that homeschooling is not about perfection, but about faithfulness.
Today’s SponsorFranciscan University of Steubenville
At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
Did you know that 20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background?High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s Dual Enrollment Program.
🔗 Learn more at Franciscan.edu
Additional resources:
Meet Our Guest
• Franciscan High School Advantage Program:
https://franciscan.edu/franciscan-high-school-advantage-program-partnerships/
• Homeschool Connections Dual Enrollment with Franciscan:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/resources/college-credit/Susie Lloyd homeschooled seven children over 30 years and is a longtime mentor, speaker, author, and consultant in the Catholic homeschooling world. Her books, articles, and conference talks emphasize that you don’t have to homeschool perfectly to homeschool successfully. Susie has a special heart for mentoring new and struggling homeschoolers.
🌐 Website: https://susielloyd.com/
In This Episode, We DiscussHomeschooling “Then and Now”
• What it was like homeschooling before widespread support and resources
• How early homeschoolers built co-ops, field trips, and networks from scratch
• Why today’s abundance of options can feel overwhelmingCurriculum Wisdom Across Generations
• Why chasing the “next best” curriculum often causes burnout
• The value of sticking with what works
• Adapting when a child truly needs something differentCommunity, Perseverance, and Minority Culture
• Why homeschoolers are still a cultural minority—even today
• The importance of continuing to build and invest in community
• How patience and perseverance change hearts over timeFaith at the Center of Homeschooling
• Why homeschooling must be rooted in prayer, not pressure
• How morning prayer and read-alouds shaped Susie’s family life
• Letting go of rigid school models and embracing the human reality of learningEncouragement for New Homeschool Moms
Books & Read-Alouds Mentioned
• Why feeling misunderstood is part of the calling
• “Wait ten years”—how fruit becomes visible with time
• Living the witness instead of arguing for it• Little House on the Prairie series – Laura Ingalls Wilder
Additional Resources Mentioned
https://amzn.to/4qOnHvd
• The Chronicles of Narnia – C.S. Lewis
https://amzn.to/3MXjIxB
• With God in Russia – Fr. Walter J. Ciszek
https://amzn.to/4qxS60A
• All Creatures Great and Small – James Herriot
https://amzn.to/4baYBSr• Hillside Education: https://www.hillsideeducation.com/
• Hillside Education Language Arts:
https://www.hillsideeducation.com/index.php/language-arts/You’ll also find the Homeschool Connections Podcast on
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints📝 Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
🎧 Catholic Homeschool Podcast: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/Mon, 29 Dec 2025 - 40min - 279 - Empowering Future Generations: Teaching Service to Children | Ep 264
Empowering Future Generations: Teaching Service to Children
Sponsor: Homeschool Connections
Episode DescriptionHow do we teach our children to serve—especially when the needs around us feel overwhelming?
In this powerful and practical episode, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with Clara Davison, Brand Manager at Holy Heroes, to discuss faith-filled service, local responsibility, and raising children who are ready to “raise their hand” when help is needed. Drawing from Clara’s firsthand experience organizing Hurricane Helene relief efforts in North Carolina, the conversation explores what meaningful volunteerism really looks like—and how Catholic homeschooling families can live it out daily.
From disaster response to meal trains, Clara shares wisdom on responding with intention, guarding against compassion fatigue, and forming children in authentic charity rooted in faith, family, and community. This episode will inspire you to look right where you are and ask: Who needs me today?
riverside clara & kaitlin — tak…
Show Notes Meet Our GuestClara Davison is the Brand Manager at Holy Heroes, a Catholic apostolate dedicated to helping families grow in faith through prayer, service, and joyful devotion. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Clara helped mobilize large-scale relief efforts across North Carolina—coordinating supplies, fundraising, and community action while pregnant and caring for her family.
Holy Heroes: https://www.holyheroes.com/
In This Episode, We DiscussHurricane Helene & Immediate Response
What made this disaster uniquely devastating for Western North Carolina
How power outages and lost infrastructure delayed relief efforts
The importance of local knowledge during emergencies
Faith in Action During Crisis
Seeing service as a response to God’s call
Balancing action with prayer—especially for the dead and missing
Lessons learned about presence, limits, and trust in God
Local Responsibility vs. Global Tragedy
Why we feel overwhelmed by constant exposure to worldwide suffering
Clara’s insight: our first responsibility is to the people in front of us
Avoiding paralysis by focusing on actionable, local needs
Teaching Children to Serve
Simple, family-friendly ways to practice service
Meal trains as a powerful, practical ministry for homeschool families
How everyday acts of charity shape children’s understanding of community
Raising Kids Who “Raise Their Hand”
Modeling generosity through ordinary sacrifices
Helping children see service as a normal part of Catholic life
Building a culture where no one expects to be forgotten
SponsorThis episode is brought to you by Homeschool Connections—offering live and recorded online classes for Catholic homeschooling families, taught by expert instructors who love their faith.
🔗 Learn more at: https://homeschoolconnections.com/
You’ll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more homeschool inspiration each week!
Mon, 22 Dec 2025 - 34min - 278 - The Power of Storytelling in Your Homeschool | Ep 263
Guest: Paul McCusker
Sponsor: Homeschool ConnectionsAward Winning Homeschool Writing Program: https://awa.homeschoolconnections.com/
Episode DescriptionAward-winning writer and dramatist Paul McCusker joins host Kaitlin Zara for a rich conversation on how storytelling forms the imagination, strengthens family culture, and elevates your homeschool. Drawing from decades of work on Adventures in Odyssey, Augustine Institute Radio Theatre, and his many books, Paul explains why stories matter, how they bypass our defenses, and how parents can intentionally use fiction, audio dramas, oral storytelling, and even family history to educate the heart as well as the mind.
He also addresses the challenges of screens and short attention spans, offering practical ideas for nurturing attention, vocabulary, and critical thinking in an age of distraction.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Paul’s work or new to his storytelling genius, this episode will transform the way you think about the role of story in your homeschool.
Show Notes Meet Our Guest: Paul McCuskerPaul McCusker is a writer, director, and producer best known for:
Adventures in Odyssey
Augustine Institute & Focus on the Family Radio Theatre
Into the Catacombs, The Adventures of Nick & Sam, The Virtue Chronicles, and more
Website: https://www.paulmccusker.com/
In This Episode, We Discuss: Why Storytelling Is So Powerful
Books: https://catholic.market/books/hope-springs/
Adventures in Odyssey: https://www.adventuresinodyssey.com/Stories bypass defenses and speak to the heart in ways facts cannot.
Jesus Himself used stories to illuminate truth.
Kids often perceive the deeper meaning of a story faster than adults.
riverside paul & kaitlin dec 01…
What Makes a Story “Good” for Children?Strong characters, a compelling plot, and meaningful themes.
Stories shouldn’t “talk down” to kids.
Parents should consider both craft and moral worldview when selecting books.
Storytelling as an Educational ToolA well-told story teaches naturally — without sacrificing good writing.
Stories reveal worldview, morality, and human nature.
They help children discuss emotions and experiences they might otherwise hide.
Integrating Stories Intentionally in Your HomeschoolRead-alouds, audio dramas, dramatizations, and family memories all belong in education.
Storytelling provides context, connection, and a sense of belonging in history.
Family stories foster identity and gratitude.
Screens, Attention Spans, and ImaginationThe hierarchy of imagination: reading → live storytelling → audio drama → screen.
The more a medium “fills in,” the less the imagination works.
Parents must balance devices with imaginative disciplines.
Meals and family time should be sacred spaces without screens.
How Storytelling Builds Vocabulary & Critical ThinkingGood authors don’t write down to kids.
Rich storytelling exposes children to higher-level vocabulary organically.
Stories help kids analyze motives, consequences, virtue, and vice.
riverside paul & kaitlin dec 01…
SponsorHomeschool Connections – Live and recorded online courses taught by experts who love their faith.
Learn more at https://homeschoolconnections.comYou'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more homeschool inspiration each week!
Mon, 15 Dec 2025 - 45min - 277 - Farming, Family & Food: Bringing Healthy Living Into Your Homeschool | Ep 262
What happens when a Catholic mom turns a handful of goats and chickens into a thriving family farm?
Kaitlin Zara sits down with Christina Mula of MooLa Farm to discuss how homesteading, healthy eating, and hands-on learning can beautifully enrich your homeschool life.
From gardening with kids to sourcing real food on a budget to embracing small beginnings, Christina offers practical, joyful wisdom every family can use—no acreage required!
Plus, don’t miss her encouraging reminder at 19:38: “Start small…and you will get there.”
Today's Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Live and recorded online courses for Catholic homeschooling families, taught by expert instructors who love their faith. Learn more at https://homeschoolconnections.com/
Show Notes
Meet Our Guest:
Christina Mula Christina is a Catholic wife, homeschooling mom, and the founder of Moola Farm, a family-run, organic-only farm created to nourish her home and community. What began with a dream and a few animals has grown into a source of fresh produce, baked goods, and inspiration for families seeking a more intentional way of living.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moolafarm/
Website: https://moolafarm.org/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moolafarm
Canning Basics: https://www.ballmasonjars.com/canning-and-preserving-101.html
In This Episode We Discuss:
How Moola Farm Began
Starting with goats, chickens, and a simple desire to feed her family well
The unexpected growth into a community-serving farm business
Homesteading as a Homeschool Lifestyle
How gardening becomes a natural, hands-on science curriculum
Easy ways to involve your kids—even little ones—in growing food
Connecting daily chores with responsibility, gratitude, and stewardship
Healthy Eating for Real Families
Simple tips for sourcing better food affordably
Christina’s go-to strategies for meal planning, homemade basics, and reducing processed foods
Teaching kids where food comes from and why it matters
Getting Started—Even If You Don’t Have a Farm
Container gardening
Small-space and suburban options
How to take “the next right step” for your family
Faith, Family, and the Rhythm of the Seasons
How farming life naturally integrates with prayer, liturgical living, and formation
Seeing God’s hand in the slow, beautiful work of growing and tending
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more homeschool inspiration each week!
Mon, 08 Dec 2025 - 23min - 276 - The Beauty of Home: Womanhood, Marriage & Countercultural Domestic Life | Ep 261
Author and cultural commentator Noelle Mering joins host Kaitlin Zara to unpack the true meaning of femininity, domestic life, and the “trad wife” conversation, beyond aesthetics and online trends.
From the power of stability in the home to the beauty of complementarity in marriage, Noelle offers rich, faith-filled encouragement for Catholic homeschooling moms. This inspiring conversation will uplift your vocation and remind you why your work in the home matters more than ever.
Show Notes SponsorFiat Life Coaching – Premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms from Emily Brown. Learn essential skills for time, emotions, and family management in the Happy, Holy Mama Membership.
Guest: Noelle Mering
Visit fiatlifecoaching.comFellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center · Author of Awake, Not Woke and the Theology of Home series · Commentator on culture, politics, and religion · Wife and mother of six.
Instagram: @noellemering
Website: https://www.noellemering.com/
Theology of Home: https://theologyofhome.com/
Books:
Awake, Not Woke: https://amzn.to/4oCWhXG
Theology of Home I: https://amzn.to/3K4AMkj
Theology of Home II: https://amzn.to/43WY5Dh
Theology of Home III: https://amzn.to/3M2S6a1
Episode HighlightsWhat the “trad wife” trend gets right—and wrong.
Why domestic life is countercultural and essential to human flourishing.
How secular ideologies undermine the family and why stability threatens revolution.
Understanding authentic Christian submission vs. cultural misunderstandings.
The difference between luxury and beauty in homemaking.
Encouragement for working moms and homeschooling moms striving for balance.
Creating a joyful emotional “ambiance” in the home and why fun matters.
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
Mon, 01 Dec 2025 - 26min - 275 - Homeschool Law 101: Protecting Your Rights & Navigating State Requirements | Ep 260
Kaitlin Zara sits down with law professor, award-winning author, and longtime homeschool advocate Tony Kolenc to unpack some of the most important legal questions homeschooling families face.
From record-keeping and testing requirements to special-needs services, extracurricular access, and protecting your family against unwanted inquiries, Tony offers clear, practical, and empowering guidance for homeschool parents in every state.
With 21 years of military service and decades of legal experience, Tony brings both expertise and compassion to the conversation, plus a memorable story about Tim Tebow’s impact on homeschool sports access.
Whether you’re brand new to homeschooling or many years in, this episode will help you feel confident, informed, and supported.
SHOW NOTES
Learn More About Our Guest:
Instagram: @antonykolenc Website: antonykolenc.com Books: https://amzn.to/4rvutqOHSLDA: https://hslda.org/
Practical Homeschooling: https://www.practicalhomeschooling.com/
What We Cover in This Episode
Understanding Your State’s Homeschool Laws Essential Records Every Homeschool Family Should Keep Testing Requirements: What’s Mandatory & What’s Optional Special Needs Services for Homeschoolers Your Rights If a District or Social Worker Knocks on Your Door Extracurriculars, Sports & the “Tim Tebow” LawsToday's Sponsor: Homeschool Connections - Live and recorded online courses for Catholic homeschooling families from expert instructors who love their faith.
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
Mon, 24 Nov 2025 - 39min - 274 - Creating a Faith-Filled, Functional Homeschool Space | Ep 259
In today's episode, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with interior designer, entrepreneur, and author Whitney English to talk about how to create a beautiful, organized, and faith-filled homeschool space, no matter the size of your home.
Whether your “classroom” is the dining room table or a designated schoolroom, Whitney offers practical, budget-friendly advice for reducing clutter, choosing the right storage solutions, and designing a space that truly works for your family.
But the conversation goes deeper than decor, Whitney and Kaitlin discuss how to cultivate peace, spiritual growth, and strong family relationships within the homeschool environment.
With humor, honesty, and plenty of real-life stories, Whitney reminds parents that organization is a process, imperfection is normal, and the heart of a meaningful homeschool space is love, patience, and connection.
Thank you to our sponsor, Benedictine College, which makes this podcast possible! Benedictine College is located in the small, picturesque town of Atchison, Kansas. The college is Newman Guide recommended and ranked as a top college in both U.S. News and The Wall Street Journal. Benedictine is also homeschool-friendly, offering a family-oriented atmosphere, small class sizes, and outstanding ministry and student life programs. Visit benedictine.edu to learn more.
WHAT WE DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE:
How to design a multifunctional homeschool area—even if you use your dining room table
Why rolling carts, china cabinets, and non-plastic containers can transform your space
The importance of organizing first, decorating second
How clutter affects a child’s focus—and how parents can maintain clarity during busy homeschool days
Creative ideas for involving children in home organization and teaching real-life skills
Why a spiritually nurturing homeschool space is more about relationship and vulnerability than decor
Fun rapid-fire tips on furniture, fabrics, and refreshing kids’ rooms
How to display children’s artwork in stylish, meaningful ways
SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES:
Three-shelf rolling cart: https://amzn.to/3JNXbSJ Whitney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitneyenglish/ Whitney on Substack: https://whitneyenglish.substack.com/ Book: Organize First, Decorate Second (Whitney English): https://amzn.to/44dIbEqBook: A More Beautiful Life (Whitney English): https://amzn.to/482rfCa
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Visit our Podcast page at Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
Mon, 17 Nov 2025 - 34min - 273 - Yes, You Can Homeschool for High School! | Ep 258
Yes, You Can Homeschool for High School | A Teen Entrepreneur’s Success Story with Anthony Gugliucci
Can homeschooling in high school really set your teen up for success? In this inspiring episode, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with Anthony Gugliucci, founder of AG Cooks and a business student at Penn State University.
Once a Catholic school student, Anthony made the bold leap to homeschool during high school and found the freedom to discover his passions, launch a thriving meal prep business, and grow in discipline and faith. He shares how homeschooling gave him real-world experience, deep family connections, and the courage to follow his calling.
Whether you’re nervous about homeschooling through high school or looking for encouragement to keep going, Anthony’s story will remind you that success looks different—and brighter—outside the traditional classroom.
Thank You to Our Sponsor!
This episode is sponsored by Fiat Life Coaching. Learn more about the Happy, Holy Mama Membership at https://fiatlifecoaching.com/.
Connect with Anthony:
Website: https://www.agcooksfood.com/
Instagram: @agcooksfood
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/ Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/ The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Tue, 11 Nov 2025 - 32min - 272 - Building Community Through Hospitality | Ep. 257
In this heartfelt episode of Homeschool Connections, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with author and speaker Emily Stimpson Chapman to talk about how hospitality, shared meals, and authentic friendship can transform our homes and communities.
Emily shares from her own experience as a busy mom of three, encouraging listeners to embrace imperfect homes, messy tables, and genuine connection as part of living out the Christian call to love. From the beauty of family meals to the importance of inviting others into our everyday lives, this conversation will leave you inspired to open your heart and your home.
In this episode:
How shared meals foster faith and connection Why hospitality is a Christian mandate — not just “entertaining” Tips for hosting with simplicity and joy (even when life is messy!) How authenticity builds deeper friendships Finding grace and community around the table“Hospitality isn’t about perfection — it’s about love.”
Where to find Emily:
Instagram: @emilystimpsonchapman
Substack: emilystimpsonchapman.substack.com
Books by Emily:
Around the Catholic Table: 100+ Simple Recipes for Family and Friends: https://amzn.to/4o1ituZ The Story of All Stories: A Story Bible for Young Catholics, https://amzn.to/4nTojOV Mary, Mother of All (co-authored with Scott Hahn), https://amzn.to/43uEFoT The Catholic Table: Finding Joy Where Food and Faith Meet, https://amzn.to/46ZDSP1This Episode is sponsored by Christendom College: High school juniors—want to discover college life like nowhere else? Join Christendom College for The Best Week Ever: a unique summer program with classes, adventure, and new friends, all grounded in the Catholic faith. Apply by December 1 and save 25%! Learn more at www.thebestweekever.com
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/ Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/ The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 03 Nov 2025 - 32min - 271 - The Power of a Plan: Practical Homeschool Strategies | Ep. 256
Host Kaitlin Zara sits down with beloved homeschool coach and author Pam Barnhill to talk all things planning—and why it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
If you're feeling the pressure of homeschooling without a clear direction, this episode is your lifeline. Pam shares practical tools, mindset shifts, and small but powerful strategies to help you create a homeschool plan that works for your family without sacrificing peace or relationships.
From designing the school year around real priorities to understanding the rhythm that works best for your family, this episode is filled with down-to-earth wisdom and encouragement for every homeschool parent—new or veteran.
In this episode:
Why homeschool planning isn’t about rigid structure How to identify your “non-negotiables” The power of one good plan (and how to start) Encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed What Pam wishes she had known earlier in her homeschool journeyThank you to our sponsor Cluny Media! Explore timeless Catholic literature with over 400 titles in history, fiction, and spiritual reading. Visit https://clunymedia.com/titles and save 15% off your first order!
About Pam Barnhill: Pam is a homeschool mom, award-winning educator, and the host of the Homeschool Better Together podcast. She’s the author of Better Together and Plan Your Year, and the founder of Your Morning Basket.
Learn more about Pam at:
Website: pambarnhill.com
FREE Homeschool Planning Pages: freehomeschoolplanner.com
FREE Morning Basket Plans: pambarnhill.com/month
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolbettertogether/
Podcast: https://pambarnhill.com/homeschool-better-together-podcast/
Blog: https://pambarnhill.com/hsbt-blog/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PamBarnhill/videos
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com
Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Mon, 27 Oct 2025 - 35min - 270 - The Homeschool Mom and Entrepreneur Life | Ep. 255
You Can Have It All: The Heart of the Working Homeschooling Mother
The Homeschool Connections Podcast Episode 255: The Homeschool Mom and Entrepreneur Life.
This week, host Kailin Zara sits down with Therese Desilet, a former attorney turned homeschooling mom and the founder of Lovely Lady Linens. Therese shares her powerful journey of discerning her true vocation, walking away from a successful legal career, and creating a home life rooted in beauty, faith, and purpose.
From the emotional tug-of-war between career and motherhood to the joyful chaos of homeschooling and running a business, Therese invites us into the real, raw, and rewarding moments that led to her family’s transformation. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can homeschool, live your faith boldly, and pursue creative dreams—you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation.
SHOW NOTES:
Special Offer for Our Listeners: Get 25% off at lovelyladylinens.com with code homeschoolconnections
Follow Therese on Instagram: @lovely_lady_linens
Saints Alive Podcast, https://www.saintsalivepodcast.com/
Article: Can I Be a WAHM and Homeschool? https://homeschoolconnections.com/can-i-be-a-wahm-and-homeschool/
Don’t forget to subscribe for more faith-filled encouragement each week. And, LEAVE a comment to let us know how we're doing!
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com
Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/
Grab your coffee, and let's homeschool together!
Mon, 20 Oct 2025 - 36min - 269 - From Hollywood Insiders: Kid Shows You Can Feel Good About | Ep. 254
Grab your coffee, press play, and be inspired!
Homeschool Connections Podcast Episode 254: From Hollywood Insiders: Kid Shows You Can Feel Good About with Nathan and D’Lytha Myers.
Dive into a heartfelt conversation with Kaitlin Zara and the Myers family as they explore the challenges of raising children in a media-saturated world. Learn how they champion faith-based content and homeschooling to nurture a Christo-centric childhood.
Together, they explore:
How media habits have shifted for kids over the years Why faith-based, family-friendly storytelling is more important than ever Creative ways to reduce screen time while still engaging curious minds What it's like to homeschool while working in HollywoodPlus: movie recommendations, rapid-fire questions, and real encouragement for Catholic parents.
Thank you to today's episode sponsor: Party Like a Saint. Make sure to check out their website at https://www.partylikeasaint.com/
Show Notes:
Clean Streaming:
Formed (Catholic): https://formed.org/ (often free through your parish)
Angel: https://www.angel.com/
Clean Movie Reviews:
Dove Review: https://dove.org/family-friendly-movie-film-reviews/
Common Sense Media: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/
Movie Guide: https://www.movieguide.org/
Shows to Consider:
Aria Appleton Shines is available on Prime Video: https://amzn.to/42v5rxc
Wingfeather Saga free on Angel: https://www.angel.com/watch/wingfeather-saga
Gortimer Gibbon's Life on Normal Street: https://amzn.to/4oa7uil
Studio C on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StudioCtv
Wondla: https://amzn.to/4o5lJoC
Tuck Everlasting: https://amzn.to/4n30yTj
Note: Bluey introduced its first same-sex couple in the season three finale, "The Sign," when the character Pretzel mentions his "mums" when talking about his pet.
Find Nathan and D’Lytha Myers on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dlythamyers/ and https://www.instagram.com/nathandmyers
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NathanDMyersActor/
Fort Worth Actors Studio: https://fortworthactors.square.site/
Email: nathan@graftedstudios.com
In this episode of the Home School Connections podcast, host Kaitlin Zara welcomes Nathan and D'Lytha Myers, a dynamic husband and wife duo. Nathan, an actor and director, and D'Lytha, a director and producer, share their experiences as homeschool parents navigating the challenges of media consumption in today's digital age. They discuss the importance of curating content for their children, the impact of faith-based media, and their journey in creating the film "Aria Appleton Shines." The conversation offers valuable insights for parents seeking to balance screen time with enriching, family-friendly activities.
Don’t forget to subscribe for more faith-filled encouragement each week. And, LEAVE a comment to let us know how we're doing!
Mon, 13 Oct 2025 - 34min - 268 - Can Homeschoolers Get Into College? YES—Here’s How | Ep. 253
Grab your coffee, press play, and be inspired!
Homeschool Connections Podcast Episode 253: Can My Homeschooled Kid Get Into College with Natalie Williams
In this episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Natalie Williams, a Catholic homeschool graduate and admissions counselor at the University of Dallas.
You’ll learn:
What college admissions teams look for in homeschool students Tips for preparing transcripts and recommendation letters * How Catholic colleges are welcoming homeschool families What makes homeschoolers stand out academically and personallyThis conversation is packed with wisdom for Catholic parents navigating the college admissions process!
Show Notes:
Contact Natalie Williams: nataliew@udallas.edu
More about Natalie: https://udallas.edu/admissions-aid/contact/admission-counselor/natalie-williams.php
Read: Why Homeschool Connections is Not an Academy: https://homeschoolconnections.com/catholic-homeschool-academy/
Presented by: HomeschoolConnections.com | Catholic Online Courses for Homeschoolers. You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Don’t forget to subscribe for more faith-filled encouragement each week. And, LEAVE a comment to let us know how we're doing!
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com
Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/
Mon, 06 Oct 2025 - 37min - 267 - Help! My Kid Hates Writing: Save Your Homeschool from Essay Anxiety | Ep. 252
Join host Kaitlin Zara and beloved homeschool leader Julie Bogart (author of Help! My Kid Hates Writing) for a fun, deep, and freeing conversation about how to teach writing the right way at home. They dive into:
The dangers of losing kids’ writing voice in the age of AI
How to truly motivate reluctant writers without worksheets
Why spelling and grammar don’t need to be taught the way you were taught
Tips for homeschooling high schoolers without killing creativity
Why creative and academic writing are not opposites—and how to make the essay process feel natural
Whether you're a parent of a budding comic book author, a teen blogger, or a child who flat-out refuses to write, this episode is packed with practical tools, encouraging stories, and a whole lot of homeschool joy.
Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Benedictine College, located in the small, picturesque town of Atchison, Kansas. Benedictine College is Newman Guide recommended, as well as a top college according to the US News and the Wall Street Journal. It is Homeschool Friendly, with a very family-oriented atmosphere, small class sizes, and outstanding ministry & student life programming. Go to https://www.benedictine.edu/ to learn more!
SHOW NOTES:
Purchase Help! My Kid Hates Writing at https://amzn.to/3KiMgjV
Meet Julie Bogart and learn more about Brave Writer at https://bravewriter.com/about/about-julie
You can find Julie and Brave Writer on social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bravewriter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/
Substack: https://juliebogart.substack.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bravewriter
Read Why Learn Creative Writing in High School? at https://homeschoolconnections.com/why-learn-creative-writing-in-high-school/
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Visit our Podcast page at Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
For additional help with joyful writing instruction, see Aquinas Writing Advantage (AWA) at https://awa.homeschoolconnections.com/ (AWA is a Homeschool Connections program).
Mon, 29 Sep 2025 - 36min - 266 - Homeschool Without Burnout: Secrets to Sanity | Ep. 251
Are you feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed by homeschooling, and struggling to find peace in your daily vocation?
In this encouraging episode, host Kaitlin Zara welcomes Sterling Jaquith, Catholic speaker, author, and founder of Catholic Mom Calm. Sterling shares her powerful story as a convert to Catholicism, mother of six, and creator of a ministry that helps Catholic moms ditch overwhelm and live with peace, purpose, and joy—right in the middle of their busy vocation.
With warmth, humor, and spiritual insight, Sterling offers practical mindset tools and faith-filled encouragement to help you embrace the beauty (and chaos) of Catholic motherhood with confidence and calm. In this episode:
What Catholic moms really need to hear about burnout and balance How mindset work can transform your homeschool and your family life Why peace doesn’t come from controlling your schedule Ways to reconnect with your purpose and identity in Christ How to begin again—even if you feel like you’re failing“We are made for greatness, not perfection.” ~Sterling Jaquith
You can learn more about Catholic Mom Calm at https://catholicmomcalm.com/.Make sure to check it out today!
Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Benedictine College, located in the small, picturesque town of Atchison, Kansas. Benedictine College is Newman Guide recommended, as well as a top college according to the US News and the Wall Street Journal. It is Homeschool Friendly, with a very family-oriented atmosphere, small class sizes, and outstanding ministry & student life programming. Go to https://www.benedictine.edu/ to learn more!
You can also find Sterling online at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catholicmomcalm/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@catholicmomcalm
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catholicmomcalm
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnnjLbRM5Bab0wqVsomQvEg
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Visit our Podcast page at Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
Mon, 22 Sep 2025 - 32min - 265 - How to Raise Faith-Filled Kids in a Broken World | Ep. 250
What if your imperfections as a parent could actually lead your children closer to God?
In this heartfelt and hope-filled episode, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with Catholic psychologist and homeschooling father of seven, Dr. Greg Bottaro, founder of the CatholicPsych Institute. Together, they dive deep into what it means to parent with intention, rooted in faith and attachment, in a chaotic and secular world.
Dr. Bottaro shares practical wisdom and spiritual insight on:
Building deep emotional trust with your children. Balancing sacrifice and self-care in homeschooling Reframing failure as a path to grace Embracing the messy, beautiful truth: "Thank God we have a Savior."If you're feeling stretched thin or worried you're falling short, this conversation will offer peace, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on parenting as a path to sainthood.
You can learn more about Dr. Bottaro and CatholicPsych Institute at https://catholicpsych.com/
Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Benedictine College, located in the small, picturesque town of Atchison, Kansas. Benedictine College is Newman Guide recommended, as well as a top college according to the US News and the Wall Street Journal. It is Homeschool Friendly, with a very family-oriented atmosphere, small class sizes, and outstanding ministry & student life programming. Go to https://www.benedictine.edu/ to learn more!
Dr. Greg Bottaro is a Catholic psychologist, founder of the CatholicPsych Institute, and creator of the CatholicPsych Model of Applied Personalism (CPMAP). Before he was married, he was a Franciscan Friar for 4 years under the mentorship of Fr. Benedict Groeschel. He's now married with 7 kids under 11.
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Visit our Podcast page at Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
Fri, 19 Sep 2025 - 39min - 264 - Holiness in the Laundry Pile: How to Find Joy in Motherhood | Ep. 249
What if the very challenges of motherhood—laundry, meals, endless to-dos—were actually stepping stones on the road to sainthood?
In this week’s episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with Emily Wilson Husom, author of Sincerely Stoneheart. Together they talk about embracing motherhood without bitterness, breaking free from the culture of complaint, resisting the lies of the enemy, and rediscovering joy in the daily duties of family life.
Emily also shares the personal awakening that inspired her book, practical steps to be more present in a phone-driven world, and encouragement for moms navigating self-image, social pressures, and the unique challenges of Catholic homeschooling.
If you’re a Catholic mom who needs a reminder that God is at work in the mess and the mundane, this conversation will uplift your heart and encourage your homeschool journey.
Sponsored by Saint Sprouts: Make every homeschool day a little more fun with Saint Sprouts! These cute, hand-drawn Catholic stickers and magnets are perfect for lesson plans, feast days, and inspiring your kids with the saints. Durable, waterproof, and made for joyful learning. Visit https://saintsprouts.com and use code CONNECTIONS for 10% off your first order!
Emily Wilson Hussem is an author, speaker, YouTuber, wife, and mom who shares her faith online and travels the world sharing her witness of faith at conferences and events across the globe.
You can purchase Emily's book, Sincerely, Stoneheart: Unmask the Enemy’s Lies, Find the Truth That Sets You Free, here: https://amzn.to/41HtcSh
You can find Emily online at:
Website: https://emilywilsonministries.com/about
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emwilss
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilywilsonministries
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/emilyywilsonn
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Visit our Podcast page at Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
Mon, 08 Sep 2025 - 35min - 263 - Screen Time Showdown: Reconnecting with Your Kids | Ep. 248
Join host Kaitlin Zara as she welcomes bestselling author and mom of six, Molly DeFrank, to discuss the challenges and joys of intentional parenting in the digital age. Discover practical wisdom from Molly's books, "Digital Detox" and "Mothering Boys," as they explore the importance of family connections, the impact of digital devices on children's development, and strategies for maintaining strong relationships with kids as they grow. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with heart-centered insights and actionable tips for parents navigating today's fast-paced world.
Sponsored by Wyoming Catholic College: Steeped in Wonder, Formed in Wisdom https://wyomingcatholic.edu/
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
You can find Molly at:
Website: https://mollydefrank.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mollydefrank/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100030004031935
Molly DeFrank is a mom, author, and digital detox expert who helps families reclaim peace and connection in a tech-saturated world. She’s the author of Digital Detox: The Two-Week Tech Reset for Kids and Mothering Boys: A Guided Journal to Raise Future Men with Confidence and Grace, offering practical tools and heartfelt encouragement for parents navigating modern family life. Molly has been featured in major outlets like Good Morning America, The Wall Street Journal, and Fox News, sharing her no-nonsense, grace-filled approach to parenting. She lives in California with her husband and their six children, where they’re living proof that life is better with less screen time and more real connection.
Mon, 01 Sep 2025 - 31min - 262 - Marriage and Homeschooling: Thriving Together | Ep. 247
In this episode of the Homeschool Connections Podcast, host Kaitlin Zara and her husband Joe discuss the dynamics of maintaining a thriving marriage while navigating the challenges of homeschooling. They share their personal experiences, the importance of support, and the joy found in everyday moments with their children. The conversation emphasizes the significance of communication, connection, and the unexpected blessings that come from their homeschooling journey. They also offer advice for overwhelmed homeschooling parents, highlighting the importance of grace and teamwork in family life.
Grab your coffee, press play, and let’s homeschool together!
Sponsored by Party Like a Saint — bringing faith and fun into your homeschool with saint-themed school supplies and rewards your kids will love. Check out their website at https://www.partylikeasaint.com/.
You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/
Visit our Podcast page at Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Mon, 25 Aug 2025 - 30min - 261 - Praise God for the Calling: Lisa’s Farewell and Final Message of Hope | Ep. 246
Today, we pass the torch, as Kaitlin Zara—our new host for next season—interviews Lisa, as she retires from the show!
Contact Lisa Mladinich:
lisa@wonderfullymade139.comLisa’s website:
https://wonderfullymade139.comThank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 04 Jun 2025 - 32min - 260 - Schooling the Last Few in the Nest | Ep. 245
You’ve finally got just one or two children left at home, after years of schooling your family. What’s it like to be in this season of—more time and fewer people in the house? Veteran homeschooler, Mary Ellen Barrett, is here to talk about Schooling the Last Few in the Nest.
Find Mary Ellen Barrett on Substack: https://maryellenbarrett.substack.com/
The Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast:
https://www.facebook.com/stayathomeschoolingmomDiscipline That Lasts a Lifetimeby Ray Guarendi https://amzn.to/44LpmK7
Mary Ellen Barrett’s educational books for children:
Passport to the World for Young Catholics
https://setonbooks.com/home/2365-passport-to-the-world-for-young-catholics.htmlArt and Poetry for Young Catholics
https://setonbooks.com/home/2364-art-and-poetry-for-young-catholics.htmlOur very first episode ever—with Mary Ellen!
Busting Myths About Homeschooling:
https://youtu.be/MHWv05vdY4IThank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 28 May 2025 - 34min - 259 - Cultivating a Healthy Masculinity in Our Sons | Ep. 244
Masculinity is a precious gift from God to the Church, and this special combination of talents, charisms, and characteristics has been much-maligned in the modern world. So, what’s a father to do? Stay tuned for our Dads’ Panel: Cultivating a Healthy Masculinity in Our Sons.
For more on this topic, see our blog articles on homeschooling dads, https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/homeschool-dads/
And our podcast episodes on homeschooling boys, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts_category/homeschooling-boys/
Find Walter Crawford:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/waltercrawfordFind Tom Weishaar:
https://catholiccounselors.com/tele-counseling-servicesFind Dr. Sam Nicholson:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/instructors/sam-nicholsonThank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 21 May 2025 - 48min - 258 - My Best Friend in Homeschooling | Ep. 243
There’s nothing like a best friend, and it’s my joy today to welcome the person who really made our homeschooling experience in many ways. Stay tuned to meet My Best Friend in Homeschooling, Annette Scarpa.
Contact Annette at: annette.scarpa@yahoo.com
Also check out: Episode 43: Annette Scarpa: Creating Group Activities That Benefit Your Kids: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqFEV7-f-Cg
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 14 May 2025 - 28min - 257 - Grow in Virtue Through Homeschooling | Ep. 242
Catholic homeschooling can bear so many fruits—both earthly and eternal. Veteran homeschooler Jennifer Smarsh is here to teach us how to Grow in Virtue Through Homeschooling.
You can reach Jennifer Smarsh here: byhisgracejs@gmail.com
Jen’s website: https://www.teachingtowardeternity.comMore Resources Jen Recommends:
The Catechism on Virtue from the Vatican:
THE VIRTUES: https://www.vatican.va/content/catechism/en/part_three/section_one/chapter_one/article_7/the_virtues.htmlI. The Human Virtues: https://www.vatican.va/content/catechism/en/part_three/section_one/chapter_one/article_7/i_the_human_virtues.html
II. The Theological Virtues: https://www.vatican.va/content/catechism/en/part_three/section_one/chapter_one/article_7/ii_the_theological_virtues.html
The Compendium of the Catechism: https://amzn.to/4iwMXRP
or online: https://www.vatican.va/archive/compendium_ccc/documents/archive_2005_compendium-ccc_en.html (Virtues begin at #377)Some helpful websites:
Catholic Education Resource Center (CERC): https://catholiceducation.org (many articles here on virtue)The 15 Promises of the Rosary: https://dominicanfriars.org/the-15-promises-of-the-rosary
All the Mysteries of the Rosary: https://ascensionpress.com/blogs/articles/all-the-mysteries-of-the-rosary
List of moral and theological virtues: https://sensustraditionis.org/Virtues.pdf
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 07 May 2025 - 25min - 256 - Jesus Doesn’t Care About Your Messy House | Ep. 241
Homes with children can get out of order easily, but a house full of homeschoolers takes that to a whole new level! Today, Kaitlin and Lisa are talking with Dena K. White, the author of Jesus Doesn’t Care About Your Messy House!
Find Dana K. White: https://www.aslobcomesclean.com
Buy her new book: Jesus Doesn’t Care About Your Messy House: He Cares About Your Heart, by Dana K. White, https://amzn.to/4jfvEWG
For more on this topic, see our episode Messy Hospitality with Maureen Wittmann at https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts/messy-hospitality/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 30 Apr 2025 - 43min - 255 - Encouragement for New Homeschool Routines | Ep. 240
Calming the Homeschool Chaos!
It’s springtime and we’re getting organized again. Today, to help us calm the chaos, we welcome back catechist, author, and homeschooling mom, Olivia Spears, to offer some Encouragement for New Routines!
Contact Olivia Spears: https://intothedeep.co/contact
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intothedeepco/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 23 Apr 2025 - 41min - 254 - What I Learned as a Homeschool Mom | Ep. 239
From Mom to Mentor: Maureen Wittmann Reflects on 25 Years of Homeschooling Wisdom.
In this heartfelt episode, veteran homeschool mom and Homeschool Connections co-founder Maureen Wittmann shares what she learned through more than 25 years of homeschooling—academically, spiritually, and personally.
From discovering a love for math and history to growing in her Catholic faith and becoming a better mom, Maureen reflects on the beautiful, transformative journey of homeschooling. This episode is full of wisdom, encouragement, and inspiration for homeschoolers at every stage.
👉 Whether you're a brand-new homeschooler or nearing the finish line, you’ll walk away uplifted and reminded of the deeper purpose behind the homeschool life.
You can find Maureen at https://homeschoolconnections.com/about-homeschool-connections/
NHERI - National Home Education Research Institute at https://nheri.org/research-facts-on-homeschooling/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 16 Apr 2025 - 41min - 253 - Jerome Lejeune: A Saintly Scientist for God’s Little Ones | Ep. 238
Homeschooling Saints Podcast Episode 238: New Picture Book on Venerable Jerome Lejeune with Ana Braga Henebry!
Today’s guest has written a charming New Picture Book on Venerable Jerome Lejeune, the Catholic doctor who devoted his career to God’s children with Down’s Syndrome.
Ordering link: Jerome Lejeune: Saintly Geneticist by Ana Braga-Henebry https://bookstore.wordonfire.org/products/jerome-lejeune
Recommended Resource for Teens and Adults: Jerome Lejeune: A Man of Science and Conscience: https://ignatius.com/jerome-lejeune-jlp/
Well Read Mom (Catholic women's book club): https://wellreadmom.com/
Another lovely conversation with Ana Braga-Henebry: Episode 54: How to Foster Religious Vocations in Your Homeschool https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTCNEwLxmKk
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 09 Apr 2025 - 34min - 252 - The Thoughtful Home | Ep. 237
Our homes—the sacred places we raise our families--are all unique like we are. But how do we make our homes places of thriving for the whole family? Today’s guest, Dia Boyle, is here with her delightful new book, The Thoughtful Home.
Find Dia Boyle at: www.diaboyle.com
The Thoughtful Home by Dia Boyle: https://scepterpublishers.org/products/the-thoughtful-home
or
Essay mentioned: The Drift from Domesticity, by G.K. Chesterton, https://catholiclibrary.org/library/view?docId=/Contemporary-EN/XCT.165.html&chunk.id=00000011
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 02 Apr 2025 - 41min - 251 - How Anyone Can Study Philosophy Fruitfully | Ep. 236
Today’s guest is our good friend, Dr. Sam Nicholson, here to explain How Anyone Can Study Philosophy--Fruitfully!
Find Dr. Sam Nicholson:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/instructors/sam-nicholson
Contact:
scn8v@virginia.edu
Recommended Resources:
Books by Lloyd P. Gerson, https://amzn.to/4iHR2TZ
Dr. Peter Kreeft’s new series, Socrates’ Children, from Word on Fire Press:
https://bookstore.wordonfire.org/products/socrates-children-box-set
Frederick C. Copleston’s History of Philosophy: Vols 1-11: [Eleven-volume Set]
https://amzn.to/4izCwy1
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 26 Mar 2025 - 38min - 250 - Teach Science with Joy and Wonder: Episode 235
Joy. We want it for ourselves and the children we are educating. Today’s guest, Brother Guy Consolmagno, SJ, is here to share a new book your kids will love, so you can Teach Science with Joy and Wonder.
Find Brother Guy Consolmagno, SJ at:
https://www.vaticanobservatory.va/en/who-are-we/staff/br-guy-j-consolmagno-s-jOrdering information for A Jesuit’s Guide to the Stars: Exploring Wonder, Beauty, and Science:
https://store.loyolapress.com/a-jesuits-guide-to-the-starsSacred Space Astronomy:
https://www.vaticanobservatory.orgFaith and Science Resources:
https://www.vaticanobservatory.org/education/faith-science-resource-centerAlso recommended:
H.A. Rey’s astronomy guide for children: The Stars: A New Way to See Them:
https://amzn.to/3DOcNm9Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!
Wed, 19 Mar 2025 - 41min - 249 - Boys in Motion: Homeschooling Active Sons: Episode 234
So today, we’re talking with homeschooling mom Kaitlin Zara about embracing the beauty and challenge of Boys in Motion: Homeschooling Active Sons!
For more on this topic, see Kaitlin's article Homeschool Hack: The Power of Movement for Enhanced Learning.
Kaitlin would love to hear from you!
She can be reached at: Kaitlinzara@gmail.com
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 12 Mar 2025 - 18min - 248 - A Compassionate Look at Kids & Screens: Episode 233
We’re not trying to be judgy here. We all use them. But there’s a deeper conversation to be had. Today, Amanda Woodiel will help us to take A Compassionate Look at Kids & Screens.
Contact Amanda at:
amanda.woodiel@gmail.com
The Messy Family Project episodes on technology:
https://messyfamilyproject.org/?s=technology
More podcast episodes with Amanda Woodiel:
Episode #186: Community Building Throughout the Year
https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts/how-to-build-homeschool-community/Episode #168: Homeschooling Through My Son’s Cancer
https://homeschoolingsaints.podbean.com/e/episode-168-homeschooling-through-my-son-s-cancer/
Episode #37: Accepting Help
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upd2EdzMqww
Episode #6: Tips for New Homeschoolers:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts/top-tips-for-new-homeschooling-parents/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 05 Mar 2025 - 32min - 247 - The Final Harwood Mystery for Teens! Episode 232
One of our favorite Catholic authors, Antony Kolenc, is here to tell us about the climax of his incredible historical fiction series. We’re talking about The Final Harwood Mystery for Teens!
Find Antony Barone Kolenc here:
http://www.antonykolenc.com
Loyola's Curriculum Companions to the Harwood Mysteries:
https://www.harwoodmysteries.com/curriculum-companions
Tony’s Podcast:
http://www.antonykolenc.com/the-shepherds-pie
Catholic Teen Books:
https://www.catholicteenbooks.com
Also find Tony’s fiction webinar on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmiM-wGD_nc
Episode 97, with Tony Kolenc, Homeschooling Dad, Lawyer, and Mystery Author
https://homeschoolingsaints.podbean.com/e/episode-97-homeschooling-dad-lawyer-and-mystery-author
Episode 141, with Antony Kolenc, The Latest Harwood Mystery!
https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts/the-latest-harwood-mystery
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 26 Feb 2025 - 34min - 246 - What Can a Busy Mom Give Up for Lent? Episode 231
You sacrifice every single day for the people you love, so to prepare for Lent, today I’m talking with catechist and homeschooling mom, Olivia Spears, to answer the burning question: What Can a Busy Mom Give Up for Lent?
Contact Olivia Spears:
https://intothedeep.co/contact
Email: hello@intothedeep.co
Holy Week Picture Study:
https://intothedeep.co/products/holy-week-picture-study
Lent devotional with Blessed is She:
https://blessedisshe.net/products/lent-devotional-for-women
A Lamp & a Light Lectio Divina Journal for Women:
https://intothedeep.co/collections/all-products/products/lectio-divina-journal-women
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 19 Feb 2025 - 37min - 245 - Homeschool Grad on Mission to Iraq: Episode 230
Homeschools around the world educate and graduate exceptional young adults, and we’re talking with one of them today! Margaret Wittmann is joining from eight time zones away, on a fascinating topic. She’s a Homeschool Grad on Mission to Iraq.
St. Thomas Mission Website:
https://www.stmiraq.org
Instagram page:
https://www.instagram.com/st.thomas.mission
Margaret’s email for anybody interested in the program:
margwittmann@gmail.comThank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 12 Feb 2025 - 34min - 244 - Build a Family Culture in Times of Transition: Episode 229
Sometimes our families need to make unexpected changes, so the culture of our family stretches to adapt to the new normal. Today, Amanda Woodiel returns to share some creative ways to Build Family Culture in Times of Transition.
Contact Amanda at:
amanda.woodiel@gmail.comPlay, Party, Plan, https://www.playpartyplan.com/
More podcast episodes with Amanda Woodiel:
Episode #168: Homeschooling Through My Son’s Cancer
https://homeschoolingsaints.podbean.com/e/episode-168-homeschooling-through-my-son-s-cancer
Episode #6: Tips for New Homeschoolers:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts/top-tips-for-new-homeschooling-parents
Episode #37: Accepting Help
https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts/accepting-help-homeschooling
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 05 Feb 2025 - 29min - 243 - The Fruits of a Homeschool Life: Episode 228
Ever wonder what it’s like to be all done with homeschooling and looking back on all the highlights and struggles—while savoring the beautiful results? Today’s guest is the joyful Bonnie Landry, here to share The Fruits of a Homeschool Life.
Find Bonnie Landry
Podcast
https://makejoynormal.buzzsprout.com
Website:
https://www.bonnielandry.caOther Homeschooling Saints episodes with Bonnie: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts_category/bonnie-landry-catholic-homeschool/
Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers by Gordon Neufeld, PhD and Gabor Maté MD, https://amzn.to/3VTNViO
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 29 Jan 2025 - 36min - 242 - Raising Your Kid to Be an Elite Worker: Episode 227
Our kids have a chance to be truly exceptional because of the countercultural way they’re being raised. Organic Farmer and homeschooling dad, Jesse Straight, is here with tips on Raising Your Kid to Be an Elite Worker
Jesse Straight’s website, including information about farm internships:
www.whiffletreefarmva.com
Write to Jesse:
jesse@whiffletreefarmva.com
Whiffle Tree Farm store phone:
(540)-935-0600
The Lean Farm: How to Minimize Waste, Increase Efficiency, and Maximize Value and Profits with Less Work by Ben Hartman, https://amzn.to/3Dl0Pjd
Fields of Farmers: Interning, Mentoring, Partnering, Germinating by Joel Salatin, https://amzn.to/4a5I145
Wendel Berry, https://amzn.to/3ZMrCN4
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, https://amzn.to/3WAJw4I
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 22 Jan 2025 - 42min - 241 - Episode 226: A Hidden Heartache: What Small Catholic Families Want You to Know
We Catholics rightly appreciate the generosity of heart and sense of calling that leads many homeschoolers to raise large, beautiful families. And thank God for them! But scattered among us are families with only one or two children, and some of them have experienced feelings of shame for the small size of their families, as if they don’t measure up in the eyes of others. So today, we’re talking with homeschooling mom Kaitlin Zara to bring to light A Hidden Heartache: What Small Catholic Families Want You to Know.
Kaitlin would love to hear from you!
She can be reached at: Kaitlinzara@gmail.comThe Unexpected Homeschooler Episode #217: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcasts/unexpected-homeschooler/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 15 Jan 2025 - 30min - 240 - Episode 225: Wellness as a Path to Holiness
We all want to be healthy and to be solid role models for our children. But let’s be honest. Homeschooling parents, especially moms, tend to be self-neglecting as we serve and serve and serve. Today’s guest had a beautiful spiritual awakening about her own health, and it drew her closer to God. Cecilia Escobedo is here to talk about Wellness as a Path to Holiness.
Find Cecilia Escobedo: http://www.trinitywellnessfoundation.com
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 08 Jan 2025 - 38min - 239 - Episode 224: Calming Clutter
We are really busy educating our children, and our lives are complicated, so the clutter can really build up and make it hard to feel peaceful and focused in our homes. Our good friend, Marisol Rodero, is back to help us find and create beauty in our homes. Join us as we talk about Calming Clutter!
Find Marisol Rodero: https://nobispacem.com
Contact Marisol Rodero: Info@nobispacem.com
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 01 Jan 2025 - 48min - 238 - Episode 223: The Power of Tradition
Through liturgical cycles and school years, our children develop at a rapid pace, as they learn their faith and discover their unique place in the world. All the while, our families are establishing traditions that help to remind our children of what is most important to a life well lived. Today, our good friend, homeschooling father, John Heinen, is here to talk about, The Power of Tradition.
Find John Heinen: https://catholicgentleman.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheCatholicGentleman
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCatholicGentleman
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catholicgentleman
Recommended Resources: Tradition and the Church, by George Agius https://archive.org/details/traditionchurch00agiu
Theology of Home https://theologyofhome.com
CatholicCulture.org https://www.catholicculture.org
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 18 Dec 2024 - 45min - 237 - Episode 222: A Very Merry Radio Show
Catholic Homeschoolers, as we celebrate this joyful season, you’re working hard with great love, engaging your children’s hearts in the true stories of their faith. Today’s guest, Catholic actor and radio producer Peter Atkinson, is here to invite you to relax and gather around the radio with your family for A Very Merry Radio Show.
For Peter Atkinson’s Saint & Advent radio programs: https://thesaintspodcast.com
For the “Advent with Scrooge” program: https://pages.themerrybeggars.com/a-christmas-carol-rr-tmb
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog.
Wed, 11 Dec 2024 - 45min - 236 - Episode 221: Mathematics Outside the Box
Not everyone loves math, so it’s a true joy to spend time with those who do. Peaking into the mystery and wonder of the order and beauty that Math can reveal, can really change our perspective and help us teach our children to appreciate the subject at a higher level. Susan Sucher is here today to open our eyes to Mathematics Outside the Box.
Susan Sucher’s Substack (blog): https://returntosanity.substack.com/
Email: susansucher@gmail.com
Susan recommends: “Donald Duck in Mathmagic Land” (30-minute animated movie), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BqnN72OlqA
Logical Nonsense by Lewis Carroll (OOP. Check your local library or BookFinder.com to purchase a used copy.)
Mathematics: A Human Endeavor by Harold R. Jacobs, https://amzn.to/3VfK7b6Susan is designing several online courses for Homeschool Connections, beginning in the Summer 2025 semester. You'll be able to find them here after February 2025: https://caravel.homeschoolconnections.com/catalog/
Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, Catholic radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
You can follow us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints
Also, make sure to check out the Catholic Homeschool Blog for homeschooling tips, support, and practical help.
Wed, 04 Dec 2024 - 37min - 235 - Episode 220: Unveiling Genius: Enhancing a Child’s Intelligence
God has designed and purposed each of our children according to a beautiful plan, and it’s our job as parents to call out that design and help it to mature into the unique genius they are meant to bring into the world. Today, homeschool veteran and author, Maureen Wittmann is here to discuss Unveiling Genius: Enhancing a Child’s Intelligence.
Find Maureen Wittmann at:
https://HomeschoolConnections.comhttps://homeschoolconnections.com/about-homeschool-connections/#directors
Unveiling Genius Article:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/enhancing-intelligence-homeschool/Thank you to the following contributors who made this podcast possible:
Our Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Catholic Homeschool Classes Online
Homeschooling Saints theme music was composed by Taylor Kirkwood
Intro voice is Dave Palmer, radio personality and author of St. Thomas Aquinas for Everyone
Our host is Lisa Mladinich
Visit our Podcast page at Homeschooling Saints: Catholic Homeschool Podcast.
Also, make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog.
Wed, 27 Nov 2024 - 57min
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