Bringing Education Home

Kevin Murphy, a virtuoso in the world of illustration and portrait artistry, graces us with his presence today! With over 30 years of mad skills under his belt, Kevin has painted for superstars like National Geographic and even the Rolling Stones. He’s not just your average artist; he’s also an educator who founded the Art Academy and launched Evolve Artist, an online program that’s helping aspiring artists in over 70 countries. Talk about taking art global! In this chat, we dive into Kevin's 'fundamentals first' method, which is like a secret sauce for teaching realistic painting. He’s all about breaking down the art-making process into bite-sized pieces, making it easier for anyone and everyone to pick up a paintbrush and create masterpieces. It’s like he’s handing out the keys to the art kingdom! Plus, we explore the emotional journey of art and its transformative power. Kevin shares his own story of rising from humble beginnings to creating a thriving art school where his daughter is set to take the reins. It’s a heartwarming tale of legacy and the belief that art can change lives, and trust me, you won’t want to miss it!

A gift from our guest: On this page there's a 7 minute video that shows how simple fundamentals can be used on your own work to make your art realistic.

http://evolveartist.com/beh

Kevin Murphy is a master illustrator, portrait artist, and educator with over 30 years of experience. Since 1993, he’s completed nearly 600 commissions for clients like National Geographic, LucasArts, and the Rolling Stones.

Kevin's Facebook page

@evolveartist on Instagram

Kevin on YouTube

Kevin's Website

Bringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.

If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!

Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

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Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Imagine this: you’ve got a toddler running around and a furry friend who’s been your sidekick for years. Now throw in a new baby, and suddenly, life feels like a game of Twister! Today, we’re joined by the wonderful Vrushali, who brings her expertise in pet-parenting to the table. She’s not just a dog mom; she’s a mentor for busy families trying to juggle it all.

Vrushali shares some hilarious and relatable anecdotes about the challenges of merging a family with pets. From setting boundaries to ensuring that both kids and pets feel secure and loved, she’s got a wealth of knowledge to share. We talk about the importance of creating a seamless transition when welcoming a new baby into the mix. Vruhali’s approach is all about preparing your pet for the changes ahead, and she suggests some whimsical strategies like using dolls to simulate baby sounds—because who doesn’t love a little role play?

But it’s not just about the practicalities; we also explore the emotional connections between pets and their families. Vruhali highlights how our pets can sense our emotions and how they often reflect our feelings back at us. If you’re feeling anxious, your pet might just act out in response. This episode is packed with giggles and heartfelt moments, making it a must-listen for families navigating the wonderful, wild world of pet parenthood!

Bio - I reside in the country of India.

A gift from our guest: Garbage out, Growth in- with love notes to your pet. Bring your number 1 career/ parenting struggle and let's work through this over 3 calls. https://tidycal.com/coachwithvrushali/free

Vrushali's Website

Vrushali's Facebook page

Vrushali on YouTube

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

[email protected] or Kristina Heagh-Avritt on Facebook

Support Bringing Education Home

Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

Rosemary Olender joins us today, bringing a treasure trove of wisdom from her extensive experience in education and child development. As a passionate educator, consultant, and author, she dives deep into the essential gifts children need to thrive emotionally and socially in our fast-paced world. Picture this: Rosemary’s mission isn’t just about teaching kids to ace their tests; it’s about nurturing their hearts and minds through the small, everyday moments that often go unnoticed. She emphasizes that the true wealth we can instill in our children comes not from material possessions but from the love, attention, and experiences we share with them. In her signature talk, “Put Your Wallets Away and Raise Rich Kids,” she challenges the conventional notion of success, advocating for emotional richness as the ultimate goal. Join us as we explore how parents and educators can cultivate resilience, confidence, and empathy in kids, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the challenges of life with grace and grit.

In our lively chat, Rosemary shares a deeply personal story that inspired her latest book. The pivotal moment came during a heartfelt conversation with her father before he passed away. He expressed regret about not leaving behind material wealth, which led Rosemary to realize that the real legacy he imparted was invaluable life lessons. Each chapter of her book unpacks different “gifts” essential for children, such as patience, love, and the gift of time, paired with practical suggestions for parents to implement in their daily lives. This isn’t just a guide; it’s a heartfelt invitation for parents to reflect on their own interactions with their kids and to recognize the profound impact of their presence and engagement. Rosemary’s insights resonate with anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by the pressures of parenting or teaching, reminding us that small moments of connection can lead to monumental changes in a child’s life.

But wait, there’s more! Rosemary doesn’t just stop at theory; she brings practical advice to the table. We discuss the importance of fostering an environment of trust and communication at home. How do you encourage your child to open up about their day? It’s all about reframing the questions we ask them! Instead of the usual “How was school?”, Rosemary suggests we spice it up with questions that stimulate their critical thinking and reflection. For instance, asking them what excited them today or what challenged them can open up a whole new dialogue. Plus, we talk about the significance of rituals and routines in families, emphasizing how these create a sense of belonging and security. Whether it’s a nightly chat over cookies or a special birthday dinner, these moments form the backbone of a child’s emotional health. Join us as we laugh, learn, and share stories that highlight how we can make the most of our time with our kids, ensuring they feel loved, valued, and understood.

Rosemary Olender’s insights are not just for parents—they’re for anyone involved in nurturing children, including teachers, counselors, and mentors. This episode is a delightful mix of heartfelt stories, practical advice, and a sprinkle of humor. So grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let’s embark on this journey of raising emotionally rich kids together. You’ll leave with actionable tips and a renewed sense of what it means to truly invest in the lives of the children around us. Let’s make those small moments count and redefine what it means to be ‘rich’ in today’s world!

Rosemary Olender, MS, CAS, is an educator, consultant, speaker, and non-fiction author who blends professional expertise with heartfelt guidance on child development. With advanced degrees in teaching and administration, and decades of experience supporting families and schools, she offers practical, compassionate insights to help navigate the everyday challenges of parenting and education. Her books provide more than information—they offer guidance, reassurance, and a shared sense of purpose.

Here is a free gift from our guest:

Tip Sheet for Parents: Raising Children with Heart, Legacy and Love

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PONazbvhHEQ6ZIbHHa4UHwd0nxiN6hOSVKa6SlRuTxk/edit?usp=sharing

Rosemary's Facebook page

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

[email protected] or Kristina Heagh-Avritt on Facebook

Support Bringing Education Home

Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

In this lively episode, we sit down with Saireen Nielsen, a global entrepreneur and the mastermind behind the 'Loving Menopausitivity' movement, which aims to empower women navigating the complexities of menopause. Saireen opens up about her decade-long struggle with severe menopausal symptoms that left her feeling out of control, illustrating the need for better awareness and education around this natural phase of life. With candor and humor, she recounts her journey from confusion to empowerment—transforming her life through fitness, self-care, and ultimately, a desire to help other women. This episode highlights the importance of self-education and the impact of generational knowledge sharing, as Saireen encourages women to take charge of their health and communicate openly with their families about their experiences.

The conversation explores the challenges moms face today, balancing the demands of parenting with the personal upheaval of hormonal changes. Saireen’s insights on creating a supportive family environment are invaluable, offering actionable tips for women to prioritize their well-being while also ensuring their family understands the changes they are undergoing. Whether it’s establishing 'me time' or fostering open discussions with kids about what they can expect from mom during this phase, Saireen's approach is both practical and empowering. Listeners will walk away feeling inspired, equipped with the knowledge to embrace their menopausal journey with positivity and grace, proving that aging can be fabulous with the right mindset and support.

Saireen Neilsen is a global entrepreneur who has developed a course called Loving Menopausitivity™ which is designed to help perimenopausal and menopausal women prepare for and manage their menopausal symptoms in a natural way without hormone replacement.

A gift from our guest: S.L.I.M. Method pdf

Menopause is a gift, a powerful opportunity to reflect and prioritize you with the S.L.I.M. Method we will empower you to embrace this phase with Grace, confidence and vibrancy.

https://slimguide.menopausitivity.ca/free-gift

Saireen's Facebook page

@saireen on Instagram

Saireen's Facebook group

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

[email protected] or Kristina Heagh-Avritt on Facebook

Support Bringing Education Home

Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

Get ready to dive into a conversation that’s all about turning the ordinary into extraordinary! Mark Entrekin, our guest, is not your average transformational officer—he’s got over 40 years of experience in leadership and a killer approach to bridging connections. He’s here to tell us how the very skills that make businesses thrive can also work wonders in our families. Imagine taking that corporate savvy and using it to foster love, understanding, and unity at home! Mark’s 'Achieving Unity Success' formula is like the Swiss Army knife for families; it’s built to help us prioritize what matters and push towards growth and connection. With a knack for storytelling, he shares personal tales that highlight how he transformed challenges into opportunities, all while keeping the atmosphere light and fun.

As we get into the nitty-gritty, Mark opens up about the importance of education—specifically, how we can make learning vibrant and engaging at home. He reflects on his experiences growing up and emphasizes how crucial it is for parents to be involved in their children’s educational journeys. This isn’t just about school subjects; it’s about creating a supportive space where kids feel empowered to explore, ask questions, and express themselves. We have a few laughs along the way, discussing the trials of homework help and how it can often feel like a scene from a comedy movie. But, the heart of the conversation is about how parents can cultivate a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

Towards the finish line, Mark shares actionable tips for families eager to make a change. He emphasizes the need for curiosity and dialogue at home, where asking questions is more valuable than simply providing answers. It’s all about modeling the learning process and creating an environment where mistakes are part of the journey rather than the end of the world. So if you’re ready to kickstart a new chapter in your family dynamics, Mark’s insights are the perfect guide to inspire unity and growth—let’s get to it!

Mark Entrekin is a dynamic Chief Transformational Officer, seasoned speaker, coach, and consultant with over 40 years of leadership experience. With a Master’s in Organizational Management, a Bachelor’s in Business Information Systems, and multiple leadership certifications, Mark empowers individuals, corporations, educational institutions and organizations to unlock their full potential.

A gift from our guest: Achieving Unity Guide

https://www.MarkEntrekin.com/achieving-unity-guide

Mark's Facebook page

Mark's Website

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

[email protected] or Kristina Heagh-Avritt on Facebook

Support Bringing Education Home

Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

Dr. Leslie Gruis takes us on a whirlwind tour through the fascinating world of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education, especially as it pertains to middle school girls. With over 30 years of experience at the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command, Dr. Grus has dedicated her life to not just understanding complex mathematics but also to demystifying it for the younger generation. She shares insights into the unique challenges girls face in STEM fields, particularly during those tumultuous middle school years when social dynamics shift and interests can wane.

With a mission to inspire and mentor, Dr. Grus emphasizes the importance of experiential learning and building confidence in young girls, showing them that they can indeed excel in mathematics and technology. Her anecdotes about robotics competitions and engaging activities highlight how fun and impactful learning can be when it's hands-on, proving that education isn't just about textbooks—it's about igniting passion and curiosity!

Born a patriot, Dr. Leslie Gruis spent 30 years as a mathematician and intelligence officer at the National Security Agency, where she helped develop technology solutions that balanced national security with civil rights. She later served at U.S. Cyber Command and the National Intelligence Council. Now retired, she writes and speaks on privacy, surveillance, and democracy—making complex topics accessible for everyday Americans. Dr. Gruis is the author of Privacy: Past, Present, and Future; The Privacy Pirates, and a forthcoming third book and she mentors K–12 STEM students, with a special focus on middle school girls.

Find Dr. Leslie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-gruis-b8060b141/

Dr. Leslie's Website

Bringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.

If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!

Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

Follow us on these socials:

Facebook

LinkedIn

YouTube

Instagram

Facebook Group - The Family Learning Circle

Facebook Business Page: Vibrant Family Education

Support Bringing Education Home

Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Derek Crager is here to shake up the way we think about neurodivergence and technology! Diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, and dyslexia at the fabulous age of 50, Derek discovered that he wasn’t broken—he just needed a system that spoke his language. Now, he’s on a mission to revolutionize how we learn, work, and connect with his company, Practical AI, and to build a supportive community for autistics at AIforautistics.com.

We dive into the magic of using AI not just as a tool but as a bridge to understanding and empowerment, especially for families navigating the complexities of neurodivergence. Join us for a chat filled with honesty, humor, and a sprinkle of hope as we explore how embracing our differences can lead to extraordinary opportunities!

Derek Crager is a neurodivergent entrepreneur diagnosed at 50 with ASD, ADHD, and dyslexia. After decades of being told he was “too intense,” “too quiet,” or “too much,” Derek discovered the truth: his brain was never broken — the system just didn’t speak his language.

A gift from our guest:

For individuals:

Membership at AIforAutistics.com a Practical AI Community teaching the neurodiverse how to learn and earn leveraging AI based programming and web development tools they may take anywhere.

https://aiforautistics.com and https://www.practicalai.app/community

For Organizations:

I'll empower your existing knowledge base and training programs with Pocket Mentor at no cost to you.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amazonleadership/

or https://www.practicalai.app

Derek's Website

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

[email protected] or Kristina Heagh-Avritt on Facebook

Support Bringing Education Home

Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

Get ready for a family affair like no other! The Bryant family joins us to chat about their unique homeschooling journey, which is as colorful as it is enlightening. They kick things off by introducing their book, "Trusting Timothy," which artfully tackles the subject of cheating through a lens of faith and family values. Each family member shares their perspective on homeschooling—from its challenges to its joys—highlighting how it has brought them closer together.

The kids, Ava, Bobby III, and Joseph, chime in with their experiences, revealing that while the socialization aspect was a concern, they found creative ways to connect with peers through sports and community activities. And hey, let’s not forget the daily dose of Bible reading that keeps their spirits high and their values strong! With laughter, love, and a sprinkle of divine guidance, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone curious about homeschooling or looking for a dose of inspiration to deepen their own family connections. So grab a comfy chair and settle in for this delightful discussion!

Bio - We are a Christian family(Bobby II, Ava, Joseph and Bobby III) who strongly believe in the power of GOD'S WORD. We are excited to share this message through our book, Trusting Timothy: A Story About Cheating.

Bryant's Website

@trustingtimothy_official on Instagram

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

[email protected] or Kristina Heagh-Avritt on Facebook

Support Bringing Education Home

Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

Mykal Olson: Guiding Fathers to Conquer Addiction and Save Their Families

Mykal Olson

Mykal's Website

Mykal's Facebook group

A gift from our guest: Free digital book to help inspire fathers to forge a powerful future

Don’t Suffer Alone! From Isolation to Brotherhood: A Father’s Path to Addiction Awareness, Shattering Misconceptions, and Building Strong Relationships

https://thelifeforge.com/freebook

The heart of today’s chat is about breaking the cycle of addiction and the generational trauma it brings to families. Mykal Olson dives deep into the struggles many fathers face, especially those who feel they’re the reason their family dynamics are falling apart. It’s a raw conversation about acknowledgment, responsibility, and the power of change. Mykal opens up about his journey from despair to recovery and how important it is for dads to step up, not just for themselves but for their kids.

He emphasizes that recognizing the signs of addiction early can prevent reaching a point of no return. This isn’t just about redemption for oneself; it’s about setting a new standard for the next generation. We get into the nitty-gritty of how to reach out for help and create a supportive environment, because, let’s face it, isolation is the enemy. Michael’s message is clear: you can redefine your family's narrative, and it starts with having those tough conversations. Buckle up for an enlightening discussion that might just save a family or two out there!

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

[email protected] or Kristina Heagh-Avritt on Facebook

Support Bringing Education Home

Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt

In this episode, we sit down with Penelope Jane Smith, a vibrant financial freedom mentor who's taken the entrepreneurial world by storm with her unique approach to finances. Imagine turning a small investment into millions, only to face a heartbreaking crash that could make anyone lose hope. Penelope's story is one of resilience: after losing everything to the real estate market's turmoil, she found herself at a mastermind event that shifted her perspective dramatically. The conversation takes us through her journey of personal growth and how she pivoted to focus on empowering women entrepreneurs through innovative financial solutions, including her creation of the world's first cryptocurrency aimed at fostering financial independence for women.

We get into the nitty-gritty of how families can navigate their finances in challenging times, emphasizing the importance of cash flow planning and an abundance mindset. Penelope's engaging narrative style and her light-hearted humor make complex financial concepts accessible and relatable. She offers practical insights, encouraging listeners to take charge of their financial destinies while reminding us all that it’s never too late to start building a prosperous future. This isn’t just a podcast episode; it’s a celebration of hope, empowerment, and the belief that financial freedom is within everyone's reach.

Penelope Jane Smith

Penelope Jane Smith is the premier financial freedom mentor for entrepreneurs and the go-to expert for some of the biggest names in the conscious business industry.

A gift from our guest: https://realprosperity.isrefer.com/go/FFF/VFE/

Download your free copy of The Financial Freedom Formula eBook, where you’ll discover exactly what it will take for you to become financially free, the two types of passive income, and how to get more of each.

You'll also get a magic link where you can claim a free ticket to Penelope's Financial Freedom 101 Online 3-Day Event where in just three days, you'll get the money skills, tools and systems to become financially free forever!

Penelope Jane's Website

Penelope Jane's Facebook page

@penelopejanesmith360 on Instagram

Penelope Jane on YouTube

@PenelopeJane360 on X

Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kids

[email protected] or Kristina Heagh-Avritt on Facebook

Support Bringing Education Home

Copyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-Avritt