The mid-year slump is real, and for many homeschool families, February and early March bring feelings of burnout, discouragement, and exhaustion. The excitement of the new school year has faded, the holidays are long past, and spring still feels out of reach. 

In this episode, Leslie Nunnery unpacks the real reasons behind this seasonal struggle—whether it’s winter blues, exhaustion, comparison traps, or feeling off-track—and provides encouraging, faith-based strategies to regain joy in homeschooling. She reminds us that homeschooling is a tool, not the mission itself, and encourages us to reset our focus on discipleship and relationship-building. 

Join us for a refreshing, hope-filled conversation that will help you navigate this season with renewed strength and purpose. 

✔️ The common causes of mid-year burnout 

✔️ How to discern whether you need a break or a mindset shift 

✔️ Practical ways to reset your heart and your homeschool 

✔️ The power of community and leaning into God’s strength 

If you’re struggling to find motivation or wondering if you’re even making progress, this episode is for you! 

https://youtu.be/IexFjtGZa24

In this episode of the Teach Them Diligently podcast, Leslie Nunnery is joined by Jeff Reep, a career counselor, homeschooling dad, and advocate for intentional parenting. They discuss the surprising statistics about students changing majors (66%) and graduates regretting their decisions (40%)—and how parents can play a crucial role in avoiding these pitfalls. 

Jeff shares practical strategies for helping your children explore careers early, pray about their future, and make informed decisions. From fostering open conversations to teaching them to seek godly counsel, you’ll discover actionable tips to prepare your children to thrive in their calling. 

Jeff is presently the Director of Career Services, Adjunct Faculty, and CU LEADership Instructor at Cedarville University. Jeff and his wife Criss have homeschooled their 5 boys for 26 consecutive years, as well as conducting marriage mentoring for college students. Previously he coached collegiate basketball for 22 years which included twelve years in the NCAA Division I. Jeff was twice named NCCAA Regional Coach of the Year and recognized as the Staff Member of the Year. He is a Certified Professional Career Coach and has a wealth of experience that he brings to Career Services and the classroom. Jeff is a gifted teacher with an ability to make the complex simple.

https://youtu.be/6h2aDuvJxg0

Cedarville University is thrilled to be a sponsor of the 2025 Teach Them Diligently Conventions in Branson, Dayton, and Pigeon Forge. We can’t wait to connect with you! 

Cedarville is a Baptist university nestled in southwest Ohio, and we’re known for our warm, authentic Christian community. With over 175 areas of study, we offer a wide range of programs for undergraduate, graduate, and even high school students – both online and on our beautiful residential campus. 

We’re passionate about providing a faith-centered education that’s both academically rigorous and personally transformative. Our strong graduation and retention rates speak to the quality of our programs and the supportive environment we cultivate. We hope to see you at the conventions! 

In this episode of the Teach Them Diligently podcast, host Leslie Nunnery discusses the evolving landscape of higher education with Andrew Chambers, head of campus life at Excel College. They explore the unique approach of Excel College, which emphasizes building healthy families and communities, real-world experience, and service opportunities. Andrew shares insights on the college’s response to Hurricane Helene, highlighting the significant role students played in disaster relief efforts. The conversation also touches on the importance of community, faith, and the ongoing needs of those affected by the disaster, encouraging listeners to get involved and support Excel College’s mission.

Andrew Chambers is the Head of Campus Life at Excel College in Black Mountain, NC. Excel is an innovative Christian college forging a new educational path for students to become wise, mature, and productive adults who live purposeful, fulfilling lives. He and his wife Charity live on campus with their two boys, Evan and Jesse, and love every minute.

https://youtu.be/tM52RTL6qys

You’ve worked hard to homeschool your kids, ensuring that they get a great education without being exposed to some of the craziness that defines the current school system. Are you worried about sending them to a college that’s going to undo all the hard work you’ve done? If so, check out my friends at Excel College. Excel is disrupting the current system of higher education by combining a world-class biblical liberal arts curriculum with apprenticeships in the context of a thriving Christian community so students can become wise, mature, and productive adults who follow Jesus into purposeful, fulfilling lives. What’s better? Because students work throughout their time at Excel, they’re able to graduate debt-free. Excel has launch dates in both April and September this year, as well as a leadership and critical thinking summer camp for high schoolers throughout the summer. Want to learn more about the college and the summer camp? Visit theexcelcollege.com/visit to sign up for an informational call today!  

Have you ever wondered if the sacrifices of motherhood are worth it? Do you question how God could use the twists and turns of your journey for His glory?  Sherri Seligson joins Leslie this week to dive deep into the beauty, challenges, and eternal significance of motherhood.  

If you’ve ever wrestled with feelings of inadequacy or wondered how God could use your sacrifices for His glory, this episode will encourage and inspire you. 

Sherri Seligson, M.Ed., is a marine biologist and science author. She has written several science textbooks, homeschool curricula, and a science apologetics devotional. Sherri travels throughout the world to film science in action, sharing the wonders of God’s creation. An international speaker, Sherri encourages families on topics such as marriage, family relationships, and the apologetics of studying God’s creation. She lives in Florida with her husband, David, who travels with her as her adventure videographer. When they are home, Sherri enjoys spending time with her four adult children and their families…plus doing anything that science geeks enjoy! 

https://youtu.be/0ZPdyvhLSys

On this episode, Leslie Nunnery welcomes Whitney Newby to discuss the heart of homeschooling and how perspective shifts can transform the way we navigate challenges as homeschool moms. Whitney shares her personal journey from juggling full-time work as a nurse to embracing the beautiful chaos of homeschooling four young children. Together, Leslie and Whitney unpack the importance of preaching truth to yourself, finding joy in the mundane, and recognizing the unique assignments God gives us each day.

Whitney Newby is a wife and homeschooling mother of four. It is her joy to create literature-rich, gospel-centered resources through the ministry of Brighter Day Press. She is also passionate about encouraging moms to embrace their biblical calling as disciple-makers in their homes.

https://youtu.be/4GkAVgZ5vaM

Leslie Nunnery talks with Jonathan Edmondson from the Herzog Foundation about the organization’s mission to support and enhance Christian education. They discuss the various programs and resources offered by the foundation, including free training for educators, support for co-ops, and innovative approaches to curriculum. Jonathan shares insights on the rapid growth of Christian education in response to recent societal changes and emphasizes the importance of equipping parents and educators to create effective learning environments. The conversation highlights the foundation’s commitment to making Christian education accessible and affordable for families.

Jonathan Edmondson is the administrator of the SchoolBox and HF Homeschool programs at the Herzog Foundation, which have supported over 200 Christian school and homeschool group launches across the country in the past two years. A product of Christian education himself, Jonathan is both a believer and an advocate of a child’s education including Christian morality and discipleship in addition to rigorous academic standards. Jonathan resides in Lenexa, Kansas with his wife Bailey, where they are involved in church activities as well as Jonathan’s alma mater. 

https://youtu.be/VqthtGs2Rxc

Ready to equip your kids for the future? Join us as we speak with Robert Walsh, the mastermind behind Excalibur Solutions STEM Academy. We’ll dive into the exciting world of STEM education, exploring how it can spark creativity, foster problem-solving skills, and open doors to countless opportunities. Discover how you can empower your children with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in our ever-evolving technological landscape.

Robert, the founder of the Excalibur Solutions STEM Academy®, is a former mathematics teacher who has also worked as a hardware technician, an IT director, a trainer, a programmer, a software tester, a technical writer, and a business owner. Additionally, he has presented at numerous software development and testing conferences and has had multiple articles published on these subjects. His unique blend of skills in education, technology, and business allows him to communicate effectively with people with diverse backgrounds.

https://youtu.be/JKyI9-zjDkY

Find out more about Excalibur Solutions STEM Academy 

In this episode of the Teach Them Diligently podcast, host Leslie Nunnery speaks with marriage coach Jill Savage about the realities of marriage, the importance of seeking help, and the impact of children on marital connection. 

They discuss the concept of attachment styles and how they affect relationships, emphasizing that there are no perfect marriages and that comparison can lead to discontentment. Jill shares insights on maintaining connection in marriage, especially during the busy parenting years, and offers practical strategies for couples to prioritize their relationship. 

Mark and Jill Savage are passionate about encouraging, educating, and equipping families and marriages. After serving in church ministry for twenty years, the Savage’s are now meeting the needs of families as authors, speakers, and coaches. Known for their honesty, humor, and practical teaching, Mark and Jill bring hope and encouragement to every audience.

Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of sixteen books including the bestselling No More Perfect Moms. Together Mark and Jill have created five online marriage courses and authored several books including No More Perfect Marriages, I Really Messed Up, and My Heart Is Broken. The parents of five adult children, and grandparents of six, the Savage’s make their home in Normal, IL. You can find them online at www.MarkandJill.org.

https://youtu.be/u3qveYEyG7g

Marriage Crash Course

Free Rebuilding Trust Guide

Tickets to Teach Them Diligently 2025

2025 Registrations Are OPEN!

Don’t miss your chance to join thousands of Christian homeschool families for a life-changing experience at Teach Them Diligently. Our events in Dayton, OH;  Pigeon Forge, TN; and Branson, MO are packed with powerful speakers, worship, and tons of resources designed to strengthen your homeschool journey. 

In this episode, Leslie sits down with Larry and Sue Pruett, a dynamic couple with a remarkable story. Join us as we delve into their 35-year journey of love, family, and business.

Discover how the Pruetts have successfully balanced homeschooling their five children, running a thriving business, and nurturing a strong marriage. Learn about the benefits of involving children in family businesses, the importance of intentional communication, and the power of setting boundaries.

The Pruetts also share their passion for helping other couples strengthen their relationships through their ministry and Connection Cards. Get ready to be inspired by this couple’s wisdom, experience, and unwavering commitment to their family and faith.

Larry and Sue Pruett have been married for 35 years and raised five children, ages 18-29. They homeschooled all 5, from beginning to end, for a total of 24 years (and survived to tell about it!). They have been full-time entrepreneurs for over 11 years, and now coach and minister to married couples who work together, helping them strengthen their marriages.

https://youtu.be/cL6SMcM9m9w

Click HERE to download your FREE Connection Cards

Click HERE to secure your ticket to TTD 2025

Beyond the books and lessons, homeschooling is about nurturing hearts and minds. Join Leslie and September McCarthy as they explore the emotional and spiritual dimensions of this incredible journey. Learn how to create a loving learning environment, foster a growth mindset, and prepare your children for a lifetime of learning.

September is the wife of 34 years, mom to ten children, Nonna to 12 and has been homeschooling for 28 years. September is the author of two books, {Why} Motherhood Matters and Homeschooling Well, Hope for Your Homeschool, Start Strong, Stay the Course, and Finish with Joy. She is the Director of the Family Enrichment Center, and founded September & Co. You can find September online at @septemberanne on IG, @septemberandco

https://youtu.be/qGB3GCl2bas

Find out more about September & Co. HERE

Follow September & Co. on Instagram

See September McCarthy at our TTD events in 2025

Homeschool Family Favorites Guide 2024 HERE

Podcast & Thanksgiving Journal Giveaway HERE