Teach Them Diligently
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Teach Them Diligently episodes

  • Communicating as a Heart Schooling Couple: Strengthening Your Marriage & Homeschooling Journey | 342

    In this episode, Leslie Nunnery dives deep into the importance of communication in marriage—especially for heart-schooling couples committed to biblical parenting and excellent home education. How do you and your spouse get on the same page? How do you strengthen your teamwork and work through challenges together? Leslie shares key insights on communication, gratitude, and building a shared vision for your family.

    Topics Covered in This Episode:
    • The importance of clear and intentional communication in marriage
    • How practicing daily gratitude strengthens your relationship
    • Creating a shared vision for your homeschool and parenting journey
    • Why setting aside uninterrupted time for deep conversations is critical
    • How prayer plays a role in aligning your hearts and goals
    • Additional Resources:
      • David Nunnery’s Thanksgiving Journal – A practical tool for developing a habit of gratitude. Click here to order yours now. 
        • Heart School Book & Course – Dive deeper into homeschooling as a discipleship journey. Click here to get your Heart School Book. 
          • Prayer Series for Your Marriage – Strengthen your relationship through focused prayer. Click here to join this prayer series. 
            • Click here to get Teach Them Diligently Convention Tickets. 
            • Be part of TTD365 Office Hours to discuss this topic more
            • 20 min
            • Faith That Sticks: 5 Real-Life Ways to Disciple Your Preteen | 341

              The preteen years (ages 8-12) are a critical time for shaping your child’s faith—but many parents feel lost when it comes to discipling their kids during this season. How do you connect with their hearts and guide them toward a faith that lasts? 

              In this episode, Leslie Nunnery and Tricia Goyer introduce their new book, Faith That Sticks: Five Real-Life Ways to Disciple Your Preteen. You’ll walk away from this episode with fresh insight and simple strategies to disciple your preteen with confidence.

              Meet the Guest:

              Tricia Goyer, homeschooling mom of 10 and bestselling author, brings faith and fun to learning! Her latest, Wonders of the Ocean Realm, dives into science storytelling, while Breath of Bones, a WWII historical steampunk novel co-written with her (previously homeschooled) son, proves homeschooling really does pay off! 

              Topics Covered In This Episode:
              • Why the preteen years are so important for spiritual formation
              • The biggest challenges parents face in discipling kids this age
              • Practical, real-life ways to make faith a natural part of everyday life
              • How to connect deeply with your child’s heart before the teen years hit
              • Encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed or unsure 
              • https://youtu.be/ihhGyWbnU_U

                Additional Resources:

                Get your copy of Faith That Sticks today! Available at Teach Them Diligently Bookstore or anywhere books are sold. 

                See Tricia at TTD 2025 in Dayton OH, Pigeon Forge TN, and Branson MO

                38 min
              • Raising Boys in a Virtual World: How to Reach Their Hearts & Build Godly Men | 340

                In today’s world, boys are growing up surrounded by screens, video games, and digital distractions. How can parents guide them toward godly manhood?

                In this episode, Leslie Nunnery welcomes Mark Hancock, CEO of Trail Life USA, to dive deep into the challenges boys face today and how parents can intentionally disciple them.

                Plus, hear how Trail Life USA is making a difference in young men’s lives and how they’ll be investing in dads at Teach Them Diligently events this year!

                Topics Covered in this Episode:
                • Why virtual worlds are so captivating to boys—and what parents can do about it
                • How to engage your son’s heart rather than just control his behavior
                • The importance of real-world challenges and adventure in shaping strong men
                • Why “letting boys be boys” is key to their healthy development
                • How dads and mentors play a crucial role in discipleship
                • Meet the Guest:

                  Mark T. Hancock began his career founding a national advertising agency and running it for fifteen years. His conversion to Christ led him into ministry as a Youth and College Pastor, Associate Pastor, Homeless Ministry Director and Global Event Director for an international ministry, organizing events on five continents. He holds two Masters Degrees in the Mental Health Counseling field, having spent time in private practice, and has taught at secular and Christian colleges. Mark has been a guest on numerous radio and television programs including: Focus on the Family, Fox Nation’s Starnes Country, Family Life Radio, The Eric Metaxas Show, and James Dobson’s Family Talk Program. He is the author of Trail-Ready: 101 Devotions for Dads with Boys, Too Much Tubular (with BRAVE Books), and co-author of Flight of the Falcon.Mark was named to the American Family Association’s ’40 Faithful’. An author, award-winning writer, and conference speaker, he serves as Chief Executive Officer of Trail Life USA and lives near Greenville, SC with his wife of over 35 years. They have two sons.

                  Podcast Sponsorship:

                  Trail Life USA partners with churches and parents across America as the premier national character development organization for young men which produces generations of godly and responsible husbands, fathers, and citizens. In over 1,200 churches in all 50 states, fathers and sons are connecting, relationships are deepening, communities are being impacted, and legacies are beginning as a new generation of godly leaders rises up. Trail Life is also partnering with Teach Them Diligently again this year to bring you a men’s breakf ast at our events in Dayton,OH; Pigeon Forge, TN; Branson,MO; and Lynchburg VA. We are so grateful that Trail Life’s investment in men and boys extends to our events, and we hope you’re planning to see them onsite. You can learn more about Trail Life by visiting TrailLifeUSA.com

                  Additional Resources:

                  Join us at our Teach Them Diligently conventions in 2025! Trail Life USA will be in attendance and will be sponsoring our men’s breakfast at all locations! Click HERE for more information.

                  Find out more information about Trail Life USA HERE

                  36 min
                • Bringing Bible Stories to Life: The Sight and Sound Journey | 339

                  On today’s podcast, Leslie Nunnery speaks with Katie Miller, the director of brand development for Sight and Sound Theaters. Together, they explore the rich history of the theater, its immersive experiences that bring Bible stories to life, and the ministry’s mission to inspire and connect audiences with scripture. Katie shares personal anecdotes about the challenges faced by the organization, including a devastating fire, and emphasizes the importance of obedience and faith in overcoming obstacles. They also discuss opportunities for families to engage with the arts and the exciting future plans for Sight and Sound.

                  Meet the Guest:

                  As the oldest grandchild of Sight & Sound’s founders, Katie first stepped onto the stage when she was four years old, making her the first member of the family’s third generation to be a part of the ministry. Throughout her 35-year tenure, Katie has served in various capacities within the company, including human resources, marketing, and business development. As Director of Brand Development, Katie spearheads Sight & Sound’s growth initiatives and brings alignment to each of the brand’s extensions through strategic partnerships, marketing, communications, and creative development. She also serves as the primary spokesperson for the ministry, including on camera host for all live broadcast events. Katie is passionate about connecting Sight & Sound’s past to its future, introducing audience members from around the world to the Sight & Sound story.https://youtu.be/3mkCvodypJY

                  Additional Resources:

                  Find out more about Sight and Sound Theatre HERE

                  Secure your ticket to see Sight and Sounds production of Jonah on Friday night at all of our TTD locations in 2025. Dayton HERE,  Pigeon Forge HERE, and Branson HERE

                  Podcast Sponsor:

                  Sight & Sound is a storytelling company passionate about bringing true stories of redemption to life on stage and on screen that reveal the power of the Gospel. Since its beginning as a traveling multi-media show in 1976, Sight & Sound has inspired over 30 million people with stories from the pages of scripture and history. Today, Sight & Sound operates two live-theater venues, immersing over a million people each year in state-ofthe-art original productions. In 2020, Sight & Sound launched an online streaming platform, welcoming a new global audience from over 175 countries around the world. Most recently, Sight & Sound expanded into feature films, debuting at #2 in movie theaters across the nation. Sight & Sound is headquartered in Lancaster, PA with over 800 employees companywide.

                  For more information, visit www.sight-sound.com.

                  32 min
                • How to Reach Millennials and Gen Z with Biblical Truth | 338

                  Is your child’s worldview under attack? Why are so many Gen Z kids struggling with purpose? Dr. Jeff Myers of Summit Ministries tackles these tough questions, revealing the surprising key: strong parent-child conversations. On today’s podcast, you will learn how to cultivate a hunger for righteousness and why community matters more than ever. Plus, did you know Israeli youth report higher happiness? We’ll explore why! Discover how Summit Ministries is making a lasting impact and how you can equip your kids with a resilient faith.

                  Meet the Guest:

                  Dr. Jeff Myers is the president of Summit Ministries. As an educator and entrepreneur, Dr. Myers has become one of America’s most respected authorities on youth leadership development. Through his speaking engagements and media appearances, Dr. Myers has become a fresh voice offering humor and insight from a Christian worldview.

                  https://youtu.be/ZQ9xxo8bIYE

                  Additional Resources:

                  Find out more about Summit Ministries HERE

                  Discount for Teach Them Diligently listeners- TEACHTHEM25 when you register HERE

                  See Dr. Jeff Myers at all of our TTD locations in 2025. Click HERE to secure your ticket.

                  Podcast Sponsor:

                  We are excited to share about Summit Ministries’ 12-day Student Conference. Summit is for young adults who want to set an example in speech, conduct, faith, love, and purity. Your sixteen to twenty-two-year-old will find mentors and friends who believe they don’t have to wait to live with purpose and impact. They will dive deeper into their faith, build lifelong friendships, as they boldly step into the life God has for them. This is a truly phenomenal program. I had the privilege of spending a couple of days at one of their conferences a couple of years ago, and I was blown away by the depth of teaching and conversation these young adults were engaging in. So Don’t wait. make plans for your young person to join Summit Ministries Student Conference this summer! Learn more at summit.org/teachthem.

                  Use discount code TEACHTHEM25. 

                  49 min
                • Kingdom-Minded Kids: Homeschool Graduates Share Their Journey | 337

                  In this special episode, Leslie Nunnery sits down with her two sons, Camden and Payton, to discuss their homeschool experience and how it has shaped their faith, education, and work today. Camden, director of youth programs at Teach Them Diligently, and Payton, a middle school teacher and youth program producer, share their insights on the advantages of homeschooling, the challenges of transitioning to college, and how parents can prepare their children for life beyond the homeschool years. 

                  They also dive into the exciting new youth programs launching at Teach Them Diligently, designed to equip children and teens with deep theological understanding and biblical discipleship. Whether you’re a homeschooling parent or considering the journey, this episode is packed with encouragement and wisdom! 

                  Topics Covered in This Episode:
                  • The biggest benefits of homeschooling (even the ones kids don’t realize at the time!) 
                  • How self-paced learning prepares students for life & career success 
                  • The transition from homeschool to college—what’s easy & what’s hard
                  •  Encouragement for parents navigating homeschool & ministry life 
                  • Exciting updates on the 2025 Teach Them Diligently youth programs
                  • https://youtu.be/DvArorg9u4o

                    Additional Resources:
                    • Learn more about Teach Them Diligently events and the youth programs at each location.
                    • Join the Teach Them Diligently 365 Community
                    • Grab a copy of Heart School to learn how you can leverage Biblical Parenting and Excellent Home Education to create the family culture you’ve always wanted.
                    • Follow us on Instagram: @TeachDiligently 
                    • 27 min
                    • Surviving Mid-Year Homeschool Burnout | 336

                      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. 

                      Topics Covered in this Episode:

                      ✔️ 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

                      Additional Resources:
                      • Teach Them Diligently Events and Tickets 
                      • Teach Them Diligently Book 
                      • Heart School Book
                      • Teach Them Diligently 365 Membership
                      • Connect with Us:
                        • Follow us on Instagram: @teachdiligently 
                          • Join our community: Teach Them Diligently 365
                            • Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! 
                            • 29 min
                            • Raising Independent Decision-Makers: Preparing Your Child for their Career and Calling | 335

                              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. 

                              Meet the Guest:

                              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.

                              Topics Covered in Episode:
                              • Why 66% of students change majors—and how parents can help avoid this. 
                              • The unique advantage homeschooling offers in knowing your child deeply. 
                              • How to engage your child in conversations about their strengths and interests. 
                              • Encouraging independence while providing guidance. 
                              • The importance of teaching children to think biblically and critically. 
                              • How asking for advice can open unexpected doors of opportunity. 
                              • https://youtu.be/6h2aDuvJxg0

                                Additional Resources:
                                • Join us for a Teach Them Diligently event in 2025 CLICK HERE
                                • Connect with Jeff Reep: Cedarville.edu/TTD 
                                • Take the assessment Jeff Talked about– http://cedarville.myplan.com/ and use code GJ9KM8SP to sign up for free. 
                                • Check out additional episodes of the Teach Them Diligently podcast and subscribe today: CLICK HERE
                                • 42 min
                                • Excel College: A New Model for Learning | 334

                                  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.

                                  Meet the Guest:

                                  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

                                  Additional Resources:
                                  • Find out more about Excel College HERE
                                  • Find out more about Excel Camp HERE
                                  • Secure your ticket for TTD 2025 HERE
                                  • Podcast Sponsor:

                                    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!  

                                    30 min
                                  • Trusting God’s Plan A in Motherhood | 333

                                    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.  

                                    • How society often undervalues motherhood and why it’s God’s Plan A for many women. 
                                      • Lessons learned from hard parenting seasons and how God uses them to shape character and purpose. 
                                        • The importance of trusting God in every assignment, whether it’s raising children, learning alongside them, or stepping into unexpected opportunities. 
                                          • Sherri’s journey from marine biologist to homeschool mom to science curriculum author and how each step prepared her for God’s next assignment. 
                                          • 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. 

                                            Meet the Guest:

                                            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

                                            Additional Resources:
                                              • See Sherri at our TTD Events in 2025
                                              • Find out more about TTD365 and the need for moms to have community HERE
                                              • Purchase Sherri’s new book Wonder of the Ocean Realm and send proof of purchase to get a free workbook
                                              • Follow Sherri on Instagram HERE
                                              • 34 min

                                              About Teach Them Diligently

                                              From the publisher's feed

                                              You want to raise children who know and love Jesus—and you know that doesn’t happen by accident. The Teach Them Diligently Podcast gives Christian parents practical, biblical help for homeschooling,…