Sarah Pead is the Wild + Free group leader from West Georgia, known for her authentic leadership, love for community, and her passion for reclaiming childhood through homeschooling. Her journey from public school skeptic to community builder offers practical wisdom for any mom who wants to nurture her children’s wonder without losing herself. Most homeschooling moms feel overwhelmed balancing work and family—until they hear Sarah’s story of building a thriving community while running her own business. She reveals how Wild + Free helped her reclaim childhood and motherhood, all without sacrificing her passions or community. Discover how Sarah’s flexible, relationship-driven approach to homeschooling and leadership creates a life filled with adventure, connection, and purpose.

Show Notes:

Wild + Free

The Call of the Wild + Free by Ainsley Arment

Visit us: Homeschooling Down South

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We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics.

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Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press

Unlock the secret to transforming your homeschooling journey with Jessy Fagerstrom, leader of Gwinnett County’s Wild + Free group. Jessy shares her eclectic “Franken-School” approach, inspired by Charlotte Mason, unit studies, and faith, that allows her to tailor an educational experience aligned with her family’s values. You’ll uncover practical tips for creating flexible routines — like doing morning time in the afternoon or adapting activities based on your family’s unique rhythm. Jessy’s story of growth, resilience, and faith illustrates why community and authentic connections are the backbone of successful homeschooling. This episode is for anyone craving more freedom, outdoor-loving families, and anyone feeling stuck in the overwhelm. If you believe education should be joyful, personalized, and rooted, Jessy’s contagious enthusiasm will light the way.

Show Notes:

Jessy Fagerstrom 

Southeast Homeschool Expo

Wild + Free Gwinnett County

Wild + Free podcast

The Call of the Wild + Free by Ainsley Arment

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We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics.

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Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press

In this BONUS episode we dive deeper into the hidden gem of Tennessee, Red Clay State Historic Park during our engaging conversation with interpretive rangers Taylor Young and Aubrey Michaels. They share their insights on the role of interpretive rangers, the history of Red Clay State Historic Park, and innovative homeschool programming. Discover how these programs foster curiosity, inclusivity, and a love for history and nature among homeschool families.

The views expressed by the interpretive rangers interviewed in this episode are their own and do not represent the views of Tennessee State Parks or Red Clay State Historic Park.

Show Notes:

Red Clay State Historic Park

Red Clay Programming

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You’re invited to email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics!

Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press

Discover the hidden gem of Tennessee—Red Clay State Historic Park—and why it might become your new favorite homeschool outing. From effortless online booking and free admission to engaging live programs and hands-on nature journaling, this episode transforms how you approach educational field trips.We dive into the accessible process of planning a trip to Red Clay State Historic Park and how the park’s programs make history and nature come alive for kids of all ages. You’ll hear firsthand stories about the ranger-led demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and micro-adventures — all in one service-oriented, family-friendly location. This episode unlocks the secret to turning local parks into magical, memorable living classrooms. Perfect for families craving authentic, no-fuss learning and outdoor explorations that inspire both the kids and the grown-ups. Tune in now and start planning your next homeschool adventure.

Show Notes:

Red Clay State Historic Park

Red Clay Programming

Visit us: Homeschooling Down South

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You’re invited to email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics!

Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press

The Tennessee Aquarium is the destination for this episode where homeschooling meets the real world as kids get excited about nature and conservation in ways that stick with them. We unpack the aquarium's educational resources—what works, what falls short—and share our actual experiences using them with children of different ages. You'll discover how the aquarium’s structured pathways, touch pools, and engaging encounters can help your kids see themselves as part of a bigger ecosystem, all while avoiding overwhelm. Whether you're exploring rivers or oceans, this episode reveals how you can turn a simple aquarium trip into a meaningful, hands-on science lesson that fosters curiosity, confidence, and environmental awareness.

Show Notes:

Tennessee Aquarium

Educator Guides

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We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics.

Explore the transformative power of immersive, experiential homeschooling with Laura Islas and the North Winds Institute team, her daughters Alexandra and Olivia. In this episode, discover how hands-on adventures — from exploring the Appalachian Trail to snorkeling in Costa Rica — are shaping confident, resilient learners ready to tackle life's challenges. Laura shares her inspiring journey from homeschooling pioneer in rural Michigan to trailblazer in experiential education, revealing why real-world experiences and family bonding are at the heart of meaningful learning. Laura and her daughters highlight powerful stories of students extended — building rockets, facing fears in treetop adventures, engaging with history in historic sites, and thriving in STEM fields — demonstrating that homeschooling isn't just a classroom, but a launchpad for lifelong growth.

Show Notes:

North Winds Institute

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We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics.

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Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press

Kathy Eggers shares her journey into homeschooling, emphasizing the importance of play-based learning and the role of parents in nurturing curiosity and creativity in children. Kathy discusses her curriculum, "A Year of Playing Skillfully," which guides parents in creating a playful and educational environment for their children. The conversation also touches on the significance of play for moms and the value of maintaining personal interests alongside homeschooling responsibilities.This is an episode no homeschool mama should miss!

Show Notes:

Play Skillfully with Kathy Eggers

Making a Book with My Granddaughter

Play Skillfully Podcast

Gray Roots Podcast

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We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics.

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Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press

Discover the educational adventure opportunities at Gulf State Park in Alabama. Chloe Drexel, lead educator at the state-of-the-art Learning Campus, reveals how this stunning location seamlessly blends nature, learning, and fun — with programs tailored for homeschool families, large groups, and curious explorers of all ages. In this episode, you'll hear firsthand stories about immersive activities like squid dissections, shark week adventures, and native animal encounters that make science come alive. Hear about the variety of classes, excursions, and flexible stay options, allowing homeschoolers to craft a personalized trip that combines beach days, trails, and immersive learning experiences. Imagine a place where learning feels like a vacation — Gulf State Park is the place!

Show Notes:

Learning Campus website - https://www.learningcampusgsp.com

To see all publicly scheduled programs - https://www.learningcampusgsp.com/calendar

To see private programs available to book - https://www.learningcampusgsp.com/programs

For more information or planning a trip - 

• visit: https://www.learningcampusgsp.com/contact

• email: [email protected]

• call: 251-923-3101

Follow us on social media

• Facebook: Learning Campus at Gulf State Park

Visit us: Homeschooling Down South

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We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics.

Discover the hidden gems of Chattanooga's Creative Discovery Museum—a space for making science, art, and play accessible and affordable for all. If you're a homeschooling parent craving a full day of inspiring, hands-on fun without the crowds or big price tags, this episode is your must-listen. Hear how visiting during the midweek January lull turned an ordinary museum trip into a low-stress adventure filled with water play, fossil digging, and mind-blowing science activities. Learn about the museum’s rich variety of self-guided exhibits, from hydraulics and earthquake simulations to space-themed rocket launches and a towering outdoor playground—perfect for inspiring curiosity and confidence in your kids. We break down the importance of unstructured exploration that encourages independent discovery and remind our listeners why we love Chattanooga, Tennessee for homeschool experiences.

Show Notes:

Creative Discovery Museum

Homeschool Program

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We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics.

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Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press

Many homeschoolers feel overwhelmed trying to juggle resources, community, and faith. Angela Pilcher, founder of Unite Homeschool Network, is transforming the homeschool experience with a vibrant network, practical programs, and a heart-centered mission that draws families closer to their faith. Discover how one small Facebook group grew into a thriving community spanning Georgia, offering resources, field trips, and support that make homeschooling more joyful and connected — without the stress. Hear about Unite’s innovative app and infrastructure,programs that foster social skills and curiosity, their The Good and The Beautiful Library, and Unite’s system for managing field trips, community events, and volunteer opportunities effortlessly.

Tune in and feel connected and inspired as Angela shares her wisdom about doing the next right thing each day to transform our homeschooling into a joyful, sustainable journey.

Show Notes:

Unite Homeschool Network

Unite Homeschool YouTube

Visit us: Homeschooling Down South

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We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at [email protected] if you have any suggestions for episode topics.

Theme Song:

Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press