In this powerful episode, Cheryl sits down with Anya, a seasoned mom who made the courageous choice to pull her son out of school during a season of deep grief — and discovered that unschooling was the unexpected key to his healing, growth, and confidence.

Anya shares how losing her son’s father, navigating the chaos of COVID schooling, and tuning into her child’s emotional needs led her to take full ownership of her family’s educational path. What followed included incredible personal growth, restored mental health, and the realization that children often learn more outside the system than inside it.

Together we explore:
 • How unschooling helped her son recover emotionally and academically
 • Why children can easily return to public school without “falling behind”
 • The impact of grief, trauma, and stress on learning
 • Why emotional intelligence matters more than worksheets
 • Homeschool myths that keep parents scared
 • Real-life skills kids actually need (and how school suppresses them)
 • The hidden pressures on parents from schools, doctors & society
 • Why confidence, connection, and slow childhood matter more than curriculum

If you’re considering homeschooling, curious about unschooling, or questioning the one-size-fits-all school system, this episode will give you permission to trust yourself — and your child — more deeply.

Connect with Anya: www.theangelwearsprana.com
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📘 The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide
Thinking about homeschooling but don’t know where to start? Cheryl created this comprehensive guide, compiling insights from interviews with over 120 homeschooling families across the country. From navigating state laws to balancing work and home life — this eBook covers it all. Stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling confident on your homeschooling journey.

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Discover how one family's challenging school experience became a powerful homeschooling journey. What starts as a two-week trial becomes a wake-up call that changes everything. This raw, honest conversation reveals why traditional school wasn't working and how unschooling created the freedom their family desperately needed.

In this episode, we explore:

• The wake-up call that changed everything about their education approach
• Breaking free from "compliance culture" and therapy pressure
• Building community through homeschool co-ops
• France vs. U.S. schooling: eye-opening cultural differences
• What unschooling really looks like in daily practice
• Interest-led learning, morning baskets, and unit studies that work
• Teaching kids how to think, not what to think
• Handling hard days with regulation and nature resets
• Self-care strategies for homeschool parents
• Creating a freedom mindset around time, travel, and family values

Whether you're considering homeschooling, already on the journey, or simply curious about alternative education, Sarah's story offers practical insights and encouragement for raising independent thinkers.

Perfect for: homeschool parents, unschooling families, parents questioning traditional education, those interested in child-led learning

Get Sarah's Emotional Regulation FREE Toolkit here!

Sarah's website

Visit Sarah's Instagram here!

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A Connected Christmas Unit Study! Start making Christmas memories today!!

📘 The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide
Thinking about homeschooling but don’t know where to start? Cheryl created this comprehensive guide, compiling insights from interviews with over 120 homeschooling families across the country. From navigating state laws to balancing work and home life — this eBook covers it all. Stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling confident on your homeschooling journey.

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Is your child struggling with ADHD, allergies, or chronic illness? Wondering why childhood health is declining despite modern medicine?

In this episode, functional medicine doctor Dr. Dusty Hess explains the root causes behind rising rates of ADHD, autism, and infertility—and shares practical solutions every family can implement today.

What You'll Learn: ✅ Functional medicine vs. conventional healthcare (firefighters vs. builders) ✅ How plastics, seed oils, and processed foods disrupt hormones ✅ The truth about vaccines and personalized health approaches ✅ Why inflammation is both friend and foe ✅ The shocking infertility crisis: sperm counts down 50% in 50 years ✅ Autophagy and intermittent fasting made simple ✅ Practical swaps for your kitchen, home, and daily routine ✅ Why homeschool families are uniquely positioned for better health

About Dr. Dusty Hess: Dr. Dusty is a functional medicine doctor, founder of Upstream Health, and creator of Upstream Magazine—a monthly publication helping Christian families get healthy from the inside out.

Resources: Explore everything Upstream Health has to offer at www.upstreamhealth.com

Our free ADHD webinar shares guidance, tools, and encouragement from our care team to support you or someone you love navigating ADHD. https://upstreamhealth.com/webinar-landing/

Upstream Health link-tree: https://upstreamhealth.com/link-tree/ 

Perfect for: Homeschool parents, Christian families, moms seeking natural health solutions, anyone dealing with chronic childhood illness, ADHD, autism, or fertility challenges.

📘 The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide
Thinking about homeschooling but don’t know where to start? Cheryl created this comprehensive guide, compiling insights from interviews with over 120 homeschooling families across the country. From navigating state laws to balancing work and home life — this eBook covers it all. Stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling confident on your homeschooling journey.

🚨 Let’s Talk, Emergencies!
The most important lessons we can teach our kids aren’t just reading, writing, and math — they’re how to keep themselves and others safe. Let’s Talk, Emergencies! helps children learn essential safety skills in a fun, approachable way — from dialing 911 on a locked phone to staying safe online, around water, and in case of fire. Give your kids the knowledge and confidence to handle real-world situations.

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What happens when you ditch the American Dream, move onto a boat with five kids, and homeschool while traveling the Caribbean? In this inspiring episode, former public school teacher Tanya shares her family's extraordinary journey of "boat schooling" for nearly a decade.

From their catamaran "Take Two" in Florida's 10,000 Islands, Tanya opens up about:

Why They Left Conventional Life Behind

• The "meat grinder" feeling of the traditional education system
• Moving from Atlanta suburbia to life on the open ocean
• How a childhood dream became reality with five young children

The Reality of Boat Schooling

• Managing seasickness, morning sickness, and life in close quarters
• Using the world as your classroom: from banana plantations in Belize to Christopher Columbus's landing sites in the Bahamas
• One-room schoolhouse methods that work with multiple ages (toddler to teen)

Honest Conversations About:

• Unschooling yourself as a former teacher
• The socialization question (spoiler: she's seen what socialization looks like in classrooms)
• Teaching five different kids to read five different ways
• Why the "hard parts" of their unconventional childhood made her kids tougher and more resilient
• Creating deep family bonds that last into adulthood

Mentioned Resources:

• Life of Fred math curriculum
• Teach Your Baby to Read (Doman method)
• A Voyage Long and Strange by Tony Horwitz
• Tanya's book: "Leaving the Safe Harbor: The Risks and Rewards of Raising a Family on a Boat"
• Blog: https://www.taketwosailing.com/

📘 The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide
Thinking about homeschooling but don’t know where to start? Cheryl created this comprehensive guide, compiling insights from interviews with over 120 homeschooling families across the country. From navigating state laws to balancing work and home life — this eBook covers it all. Stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling confident on your homeschooling journey.

🚨 Let’s Talk, Emergencies!
The most important lessons we can teach our kids aren’t just reading, writing, and math — they’re how to keep themselves and others safe. Let’s Talk, Emergencies! helps children learn essential safety skills in a fun, approachable way — from dialing 911 on a locked phone to staying safe online, around water, and in case of fire. Give your kids the knowledge and confidence to handle real-world situations.

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Nicole Goff was homeschooled by "hippie" parents, tried public school for two years (8th-9th grade), excelled academically but faced bullying, and chose to return home. Now she's homeschooled five kids for 20+ years and runs Four Corners Community School—a 32-family cooperative in Florida.

What we cover:

• Florida's PEP scholarship: $8,000 per homeschool child for tutoring, curriculum, sports, music lessons, and more
• Waldorf education philosophy: waiting until age 7 to teach reading and prioritizing imagination
• Starting and sustaining a homeschool co-op from 2 families to 32 (including during COVID)
• Screen time reality: why tech CEOs ban social media for their own kids and how to protect yours
• Socio-emotional learning done right vs the concerning agenda in some public schools
• Teaching special needs and dyslexic kids at home
• The mistake of bringing "school" into your home (curriculum burnout and constant battles)
• Parent emotional regulation: Nicole's #1 strategy for the hardest homeschool days

Perfect for: Parents considering homeschooling, veteran homeschoolers needing encouragement, anyone wanting to start a homeschool co-op, moms struggling with burnout, families exploring Waldorf/unschooling/experiential learning methods.

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/nicoledesireegoff/

Coaching Website: https://www.nicolegoffspeaks.com/

Ecstatic Life Podcast: https://nicolegoffspeaks.podbean.com/

Homeschool Co-op: https://4cornerscommunityschool.org/

Nicole Goff guides women in bringing the joy back into their lives at Ecstatic Life Coaching. 

The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide - Thinking about homeschooling but don't know where to start? Purchase Here!

The most important lessons we can teach our kids aren't reading, writing, and math - they're how to keep themselves and others safe. Available on Amazon 

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Discover how former UK teacher Kate transformed 24 years of mainstream education experience into "The Hive Adventure" - a revolutionary barefoot unschool in the Dominican Republic. In this inspiring episode, Kate shares her journey from French grammar teacher to creating a human-centered learning environment where students grow their own food, tackle global sustainability challenges, and learn emotional regulation from the inside out.

What You'll Learn:

• How to create child-led, project-based learning experiences
• Teaching emotional regulation and self-awareness to children
• Building a food forest and garden-to-plate education program
• Implementing social impact projects focused on UN global goals
• The difference between coddling feelings vs. teaching healthy emotional processing
• Why barefoot learning and outdoor education improve mental health
• Starting alternative education programs (micro-schools, learning pods, unschools)

Perfect for homeschool families, alternative education advocates, and parents seeking nature-based, child-centered learning approaches. Kate's story proves you can create meaningful educational change anywhere in the world.

The Hive Adventure Instagram

The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide - Thinking about homeschooling but don't know where to start? Cheryl created this comprehensive guide which compiles insights from her interviews with over 120 homeschooling families across the country. From navigating state laws to finding your style to working while homeschooling- this eBook covers it all. Stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling confident. Purchase Here!

The most important lessons we can teach our kids aren't reading, writing, and math - they're how to keep themselves and others safe. Cheryl created this essential children's book which covers everything from dialing 911 on a locked cell phone to staying safe online, water safety, fire safety, and more. Let's Talk Emergencies! gives children the knowledge and confidence to handle real-world situations. These are conversations we shouldn't put off. Available on Amazon 

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Ready to see what homeschooling looks like from kindergarten through 12th grade? In this episode, Cheryl interviews CJ, a veteran homeschool mom who's been teaching her three kids at home for over 12 years and is now preparing for her first graduation!

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How to transition from elementary to high school homeschooling with confidence
• Creating transcripts and meeting college requirements without state mandates
• The truth about high school workload and time management
• Finding socialization opportunities through Facebook groups and local resources
• Teaching multiple kids at different grade levels simultaneously
• Career exploration beyond traditional college paths
• Choosing curriculum that fits each child's unique learning style
• Building strong parent-teen relationships during the high school years
• Managing mom guilt and setting realistic expectations

Perfect for:

• Parents considering homeschooling
• Homeschoolers with elementary-aged kids wondering about the future
• Families approaching middle and high school years
• Anyone seeking encouragement from a seasoned homeschool parent

CJ shares practical advice on everything from daily schedules to milestone moments, proving that homeschooling through high school is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. Whether you're just starting out or navigating the teenage years, this conversation offers hope, practical tips, and the reminder to give yourself grace.

Connect with CJ: YouTube & Instagram: @HomeschoolingThroughHighSchool

The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide - Thinking about homeschooling but don't know where to start? Cheryl created this comprehensive guide which compiles insights from her interviews with over 120 homeschooling families across the country. From navigating state laws to finding your style to working while homeschooling- this eBook covers it all. Stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling confident. Purchase Here!

The most important lessons we can teach our kids aren't reading, writing, and math - they're how to keep themselves and others safe. Cheryl created this essential children's book which covers everything from dialing 911 on a locked cell phone to staying safe online, water safety, fire safety, and more. Let's Talk Emergencies! gives children the knowledge and confidence to handle real-world situations. These are conversations we shouldn't put off. Available on Amazon 

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Discover how one mom transformed her family's life by leaving traditional school behind for homeschooling on a 30-acre farm. In this inspiring episode, Brooke shares her journey from suburban Long Island to rural farm life, and why she chose to pull all five of her kids from conventional school.

What You'll Learn:

• How COVID sparked a complete lifestyle change and homeschool journey
• Why common core curriculum pushed one family toward homeschooling
• Real strategies for teaching reading, math, and science through daily farm life
• How to overcome the fear of homeschool paperwork and requirements
• Bridge Academy review: A curriculum that supports natural learning
• The truth about socialization and homeschooled kids
• Why boys especially struggle in traditional classroom settings
• Teaching real-life skills: banking, cooking, animal care, and more
• How to handle homeschool burnout and maintain patience

Special Guest: 10-year-old Savannah shares her honest perspective on school vs. homeschool life

Resources Mentioned:

• Bridge Academy with Leah McDermott (natural learning curriculum)
• Timbernook School outdoor learning approach
• New York homeschool laws and IHIP requirements

Whether you're considering homeschooling, already homeschooling, or curious about alternative education, this conversation reveals the beauty of child-led learning, the importance of play, and how everyday moments become powerful teaching opportunities.

Perfect for: Homeschool moms, parents considering homeschooling, farm life enthusiasts, natural learning advocates, unschoolers, Charlotte Mason followers

Cheryl's Ebook: Check out The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide- Cheryl's eBook compiling everything she's learned from her interviews on The Homeschool How To Podcast.

 
👉 15% off Tuttle Twins books with code Cheryl15

Let's Talk, Emergencies!- Grab it on Amazon!
What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jessica Waldock, Florida homeschooling mom and founder of The Waldock Way, as she shares her 8-year journey homeschooling her only child.

In this episode, we explore:

• How to successfully homeschool an only child without feeling isolated
• Overcoming the "socialization" question and finding community
• Creating flexible daily routines that work for one child
• Interest-led learning and unit studies approach
• Navigating teenage years while maintaining strong family bonds
• Building a homeschool business around your unique journey
• Why you don't need to follow traditional curriculum paths

Perfect for:

• Parents considering homeschooling an only child
• New homeschool families seeking encouragement
• Anyone interested in unit studies and interest-based learning
• Working parents wondering if homeschooling is possible

Jessica breaks down common myths about only child homeschooling and proves that having one child isn't easier or harder - it's just different. She shares practical tips for creating structure while maintaining flexibility, finding the right community activities, and tailoring education completely to your child's interests and learning style.

Key Takeaways:

• Nobody is more invested in your child's success than you are
• Interest-led learning creates deeper engagement than forced curriculum
• Homeschool socialization can be more natural and less pressured
• You can build a business around your homeschool expertise
• Traditional educational "requirements" may not serve your child's unique needs

Whether you're just starting your homeschool journey or looking for fresh inspiration, Jessica's story will encourage you to trust yourself and embrace the unique advantages of homeschooling an only child.

Connect with Jessica:

• Website: www.thewaldockway.com
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/thewaldockway
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/thewaldockway
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/thewaldockway

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In this critical episode of The Homeschool How To Podcast, host Cheryl interviews Mariama, a homeschooling mother from New Jersey who's been tracking dangerous legislation threatening homeschool freedom. With homeschooling rates skyrocketing from less than 1% to 3.7% post-pandemic in New Jersey, lawmakers are pushing unprecedented restrictions that could spread nationwide.

What You'll Learn:

The Four Bills Threatening New Jersey Homeschoolers:

• Assembly Bill 5825 & Senate Bill 1796: Mandatory curriculum alignment with state standards
• Assembly Bill 5796 & Senate Bill 4589: Required annual "health and wellness checks" with school district representatives

Constitutional Concerns:

• First Amendment religious freedom violations
• Fourth Amendment search and seizure issues
• 14th Amendment equal protection and parental rights infringement

The Real Story Behind Homeschool Success:

• African American and Latino homeschooled children outperform public school peers by 20-25 points on standardized tests
• New Jersey public schools: Only 52% pass ELA, 39% pass math, 24% pass science
• Why homeschool families are achieving superior educational outcomes

From COVID Awakening to Homeschool Advocacy: Mariama shares her journey from concerned parent during the pandemic to homeschool advocate, discussing vaccine mandates, gender ideology in schools, and the importance of biblical worldview education.

Key Topics Covered:

• Homeschool laws by state and how to track legislation
• HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association) resources
• Responding to "sheltering" and "privilege" criticisms
• The historical context of compulsory education
• Building community and authentic cultural education at home
• Why school "confidential curriculum" policies are red flags

Critical Action Items:

• Follow HSLDA updates on pending legislation
• Share your homeschool story on social media
• Monitor your state's legislative calendar
• Connect with local homeschool advocacy groups

Featured Guest: Mariama (@GodlyMothersChosenLittles) - New Jersey homeschool advocate and mother of two

Blog: https://www.godlymotherschosenlittles.com/

Mariama's YouTube

Resources Mentioned:

• Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA.org)
• New Jersey homeschool law information
• Constitutional amendments and parental rights

Cheryl's Guide to Homeschooling: Check out The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide- Cheryl's eBook compiling everything she's learned from her interviews on The Homeschool How To Podcast.

 
👉 15% off Tuttle Twins books with code Cheryl15

What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!
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