Have you ever wondered why a classroom teacher who loved her job would leave it all behind to homeschool? That’s the story of Meredith Reyes, known as @TheStringyMama. In this episode, Meredith shares what she learned teaching in California and Texas, why an unannounced active-shooter drill became the tipping point for her family, and how she’s navigated the shift from rigid classroom structures to a more flexible, tidal rhythm at home. We talk about nature as a powerful teacher, the role of interest-driven writing (yes, Minecraft counts!), and the challenges—and opportunities—of raising kids in an age of AI.

Meredith’s story is candid, moving, and deeply relatable for anyone weighing the value of school versus the joy of learning. Listen in to hear her journey and take away fresh confidence for your own path.

Resources:

• Follow Meredith on Instagram: @thestringymama
• Find Skunk and Badger in the Brave Writer Book Shop—and don’t miss our Skunk and Badger Dart!
• Fall class registration is open! 
• Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!) 
• Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
• Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
• Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
• Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
• Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice: www.maestromusic.online/brave
• Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
• Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
• Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684

Connect with Julie:

• Instagram: @juliebravewriter
• Threads: @juliebravewriter
• Bluesky: @bravewriter.com
• Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter

Connect with Melissa:

• Website: melissawiley.com
• Substack: melissawiley.substack.com
• Instagram: @melissawileybooks
• Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social

Produced by NOVA