When the public school system tried to label her six-year-old son as “mentally handicapped” after just 10 days in first grade, Barbie Rivera knew something had to change. What began as a desperate attempt to protect her child from a broken system grew into a thriving micro-school and a mission to transform education for others.

In this episode of The Homeschool How To Podcast, Barbie shares her inspiring journey—from first-time homeschool mom to author and advocate for educational reform rooted in early 20th-century teaching methods.

🔎 What you'll hear in this episode:

• How Barbie started homeschooling after her son was nearly medicated and mislabeled
• The moment she began charging tuition to teach neighborhood kids as a single mom
• Why she believes word definitions are the key to all learning
• How modern schools skip fundamentals and overwhelm students too early
• The transformation of a struggling student from first-grade to third-grade reading level in just six weeks
• How a grateful parent is helping her launch her school
• Barbie’s passion for vintage textbooks and classical teaching techniques
• Her emphasis on mastery, deep understanding, and life skills over test scores
• How her children learned to become young entrepreneurs through tutoring
• Her upcoming curriculum based on time-tested educational methods

📚 Explore more:
 Check out Barbie’s book, Enough is Enough: Exposing the Education System After Their Failed Attempt to Label and Drug My Son, available on Amazon.
Visit barbierivera.com for resources, vintage-style curriculum, and more on her educational philosophy.

🎧 Episode Chapters
00:00 – Homeschool Journey Introduction
07:43 – Escaping Labels and Medication
14:16 – Creating a Micro-School at Home
26:48 – The Power of Understanding Word Definitions
38:11 – Traditional Education vs. Meaningful Learning
47:52 – Rebuilding Education From Historical Methods
53:14 – Raising Independent Critical Thinkers

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. 

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What happens when a vegan restaurateur becomes a regenerative cattle rancher and homeschooling mom? In this groundbreaking episode of The Homeschool How To Podcast, Cheryl interviews Mollie Englehart, a trailblazing voice in regenerative farming, food sovereignty, and natural living.

Mollie owned five successful vegan restaurants in Los Angeles—until her journey into composting, soil health, and motherhood unraveled everything she once believed about food, nutrition, and the environment.

🌿 In this episode, we explore:

• Why Mollie left the vegan lifestyle behind
• The truth about how our food is grown—and what it's doing to our health
• Raising and educating kids on a working ranch
• The deep connection between soil health, gut health, and the microbiome
• Raw milk myths debunked—and why it’s making a comeback
• How modern medicine has strayed from nature’s wisdom
• Why Mollie is raising her children to be self-reliant, curious, and resilient

Whether you're curious about regenerative farming, unschooling, or the raw milk movement, this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew about health, nutrition, and education.

🔖 Mentioned in this episode:
👉 Mollie’s upcoming book Debunked by Nature — Pre-order here

👉 Mollie's Instagram

👉 Sovereignty Ranch
👉 15% off Tuttle Twins books with code Cheryl15
👉 Enroll now for Excelsior Classes Fall 2025 — perfect for homeschoolers!

🎧 Subscribe and share this episode with a fellow parent or health-conscious friend ready to rethink everything.

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Are you questioning the traditional education system? Curious about homeschooling, creative learning, or how to raise lifelong learners? In this powerful episode of The Homeschool How To Podcast, meet David Alford—a former public high school English teacher who left the classroom to homeschool his children and eventually became an award-winning independent filmmaker.

When David’s wife entered medical school, he made the bold decision to leave his teaching job to stay home with their daughter. That moment sparked a complete shift in his view of education. What started as a practical move quickly became a transformative journey into child-led learning, educational freedom, and the incredible impact of storytelling in education.

You’ll hear how David and his family learned history through novels, explored creativity through theater, and turned homeschooling into a lifestyle filled with meaning, flexibility, and purpose. His latest film, Searching for the Elephant, takes on addiction with empathy—rooted in the same storytelling values that shaped his homeschooling philosophy.

🔗 Explore David’s Films and Work: www.crosspurposes.productions

⏱ Episode Chapters

00:00:00 – Meet David Alford: From Teacher to Homeschooler
00:09:51 – The Path to Homeschooling
00:17:37 – Theater Background and Film Beginnings
00:27:36 – Education Freedom and Learning Through Stories
00:31:24 – Behind the Scenes: Family Filmmaking
00:33:24 – College Alternatives and Individual Paths
00:40:30 – Searching for the Elephant: Film Overview

🎯 What You’ll Learn:

• Why many parents are leaving the public school system
• How homeschooling creates space for creativity, connection, and curiosity
• How to teach history and literature through storytelling
• The role of theater and filmmaking in family bonding and learning
• Alternatives to college and traditional career paths
• How to build confidence in your homeschooling journey—even if you're just starting

💬 David’s Advice to New Homeschoolers:

What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!
This could mean life or death in some cases!
Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease: Let's Talk, Emergencies! 

🛒 Get 15% off the Tuttle Twins books mentioned in this episode using code Cheryl15: 
  🎧 Subscribe and share with a fellow parent who needs to hear this.

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What happens when life throws you a devastating curveball? For Kody and her family, her husband's end-stage liver disease diagnosis with just one year to live became the catalyst for a complete lifestyle transformation. They sold everything, bought a farm, and began growing their own food—a decision that ultimately led to his liver fully healing eight years later.

This conversation takes us deep into the intersection of homesteading and homeschooling, revealing how one family found purpose, health, and a thriving business by reconnecting with traditional skills. Kody shares candidly about their journey from thinking "we don't want to spend all day with our children" to creating an integrated life where education happens naturally through meaningful work. Her story of watching her once-struggling son thrive outside traditional education—eventually becoming a $50/hour foreman at age 20—challenges conventional thinking about learning and success.

As founder of Homestead Education, Kody created curriculum that's now used in five countries after discovering a surprising gap in agricultural education resources. "Food is literally humanity's most driving force, and yet nobody knows how to do it," she explains, describing how her materials blend agriculture, science, and home economics for all ages. From raising heritage pigs to managing a micro-dairy, her family demonstrates how developing self-sufficiency skills creates resilience and purpose beyond what conventional systems offer.

Whether you're curious about homesteading, considering homeschooling, or simply interested in more sustainable living, this episode offers practical wisdom and inspiration. Visit thehomesteadeducation.com to explore Kody's curriculum and resources for starting your own journey toward greater self-sufficiency and purposeful living.

Check out Kody's work at: Homestead Education

What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!
This could mean life or death in some cases!
Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease: Let's Talk, Emergencies! -

🛒 Get 15% off the Tuttle Twins books mentioned in this episode using code Cheryl15: 
  🎧 Subscribe and share with a fellow parent who needs to hear this.

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When Wendy’s autistic daughter came home from school writing “I am not smart” on her papers, everything changed.

Initially completely against homeschooling, Wendy faced a painful truth: the public school system was failing her child. With IEP accommodations ignored, concerning approaches to gender identity, and even medical decisions made without parental consent, Wendy reached her breaking point.

She took education into her own hands.

In this powerful episode of The Homeschool How To Podcast, Wendy shares:

• Why she walked away from the school system
• Creative strategies like “grocery cart math” that made learning click
• How multisensory, movement-based learning helped her autistic daughter succeed
• Her bold stance: parents can educate neurodivergent children better than professionals
• What the 6% independence rate for autistic adults means for her family’s goals

Whether you’re homeschooling a child with special needs, curious about alternatives to public education, or searching for hope in your parenting journey—this episode will challenge and encourage you.

What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!
This could mean life or death in some cases!
Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease: Let's Talk, Emergencies! -

🛒 Get 15% off the Tuttle Twins books mentioned in this episode using code Cheryl15: 
  🎧 Subscribe and share with a fellow parent who needs to hear this.

Support the show

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Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

What does it take to break free from a lifetime of educational conditioning? For Evgenia, a Russian immigrant now homeschooling in Canada, the journey began with a powerful realization: "I don't like to share my child with the government."

Growing up in Russia's rigid school system left lasting impressions – some teachers still appear in her nightmares decades later. But becoming a mother transformed everything, shifting her from liberal-minded to questioning mainstream educational approaches. When her son was born, Evgenia discovered a freedom she never knew existed in education.

The path hasn't been without challenges. Homeschooling an only child means constant companionship without breaks, especially for her naturally social six-year-old who "always is on me all the time." She candidly shares her evolution from attempting strict "school at home" with her toddler to embracing a more natural learning approach across three languages – Russian, Polish, and English.

Perhaps most valuable is Evgenia's insight into sustaining yourself through the intense journey of homeschooling. Her morning ritual before anyone wakes gives her 45-60 minutes of self-renewal – looking at the sun, enjoying nature, practicing self-massage, prayer, and sometimes dancing alone. "I realized I cannot live like this anymore," she explains, "because I want to pour into everyone's cup, but my cup is empty."

Her wisdom extends beyond education into wellness: "Use your kids as motivation to take care of yourself." This perspective reframes self-care not as selfish but essential – we're modeling behaviors our children will carry into adulthood. Whether you're considering homeschooling, struggling with balancing parenthood, or simply seeking a fresh perspective on education, Evgenia's story reminds us that learning never stops for parents or children.

Free resources https://www.atnourishedmotherhood.com/free-resources

FREE Challenge that starts June 30th 3-Day Metabolic Reset https://www.atnourishedmotherhood.com/page/649877

What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!
This could mean life or death in some cases!
Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease:
Let's Talk, Emergencies! -and don't forget

Tuttle Twins- use code Cheryl15 for 15% off!

Support the show

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Stepping away from traditional education wasn't originally in Jessica's plans. When her mother-in-law, a retired kindergarten teacher, began casually teaching her daughter at home "just for fun," Jessica discovered unexpected benefits that eventually led her family down the homeschooling path.

As the owner of Well-Rooted, a holistic wellness practice with multiple locations across several states, Jessica brings a unique perspective to homeschooling. The flexibility allows her family to integrate education with their entrepreneurial lifestyle - traveling when needed, adjusting schedules around sports commitments, and fostering stronger family bonds. "We wanted to maximize our time with our children to its fullest potential," she explains, noting that after struggling with infertility, every moment with her children feels precious.

This conversation dives deep into practical homeschooling approaches, from curriculum choices to incorporating outside teachers. Jessica shares how her family moved from boxed curriculum to more personalized learning methods that respect each child's unique learning style. Rather than assuming all children learn the same way, their approach incorporates games, movement, and real-world application. 

The parallels between Jessica's holistic health practice and homeschooling philosophy become evident as she discusses toxins in food, preventative healthcare, and teaching children to understand the "why" behind health choices. This isn't just about academics - it's about raising children who can think critically, advocate for themselves, and navigate life's complexities with confidence.

Whether you're currently homeschooling, considering it as an option, or simply curious about alternative educational approaches, this episode offers valuable insights into how one family balances business ownership, health advocacy, and personalized education. Follow Jessica and Well-Rooted Pediatrics on Instagram to learn more about their integrated approach to family wellness and education.

https://mywellrooted.com/

Follow: Well Rooted Pediatrics 

Yuka app

What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!
This could mean life or death in some cases!
Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease:
Let's Talk, Emergencies! -and don't forget

Tuttle Twins- use code Cheryl15 for 15% off!

Support the show

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Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

What does 25 years of homeschooling experience teach you about education, purpose, and raising confident children? Audrey Rindlisbacher takes us behind the scenes of her journey homeschooling six children from the days when resources were scarce and stigma was strong.

Like many parents, Audrey initially questioned her qualifications. "I remember pacing the kitchen floor asking my husband, 'Are we just supposed to take this leap of faith and hope in 10 years that we didn't royally screw up our kids?'" That familiar fear nearly prevented her from discovering what would become her life's work. The turning point came at a homeschool convention where she witnessed education through games—an approach that shattered her preconceptions about learning.

Audrey shares revelations that transformed her homeschooling philosophy, including Howard Gardner's multiple intelligences theory. While traditional schools target just two types of intelligence (linguistic and mathematical), homeschooling allowed her to nurture all nine forms of intelligence in her children. This personalized approach helped each child discover their unique gifts, particularly benefiting those whose strengths lay outside conventional academic areas.

Rather than simply recreating school at home, Audrey focused on equipping her children with essential skills for lifelong learning. The common thread? Keeping doors of opportunity open while honoring individual passions and learning styles.

Perhaps most surprising is how homeschooling became a journey of self-discovery for Audrey herself, leading to writing "The Mission Driven Life" and creating academies for both mothers and teens. Her story demonstrates how educating your children can unveil your own purpose and talents.

If you're considering homeschooling or struggling with doubts, Audrey offers this encouragement: "You can do this. Your unique way of being and skillset are gifts to your family, and they can blossom in a homeschool environment." Subscribe now to hear more conversations that will inspire your educational journey!

To learn more about my book The Mission Driven Life: Discover and Fulfill Your Unique Contribution to the World: https://www.audreyrindlisbacher.com/the-mission-driven-life-book

To purchase book: https://the-mission-driven-life.mykajabi.com/store

To Learn more about what we do at The Mission Driven Mom: https://www.themissiondrivenmom.com/

To get a FREE tool that will help moms overcome worry and mom-guilt: https://www.themissiondrivenmom.com/worry-opt-in-for-socials

What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!
This could mean life or death in some cases!
Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease:
Let's Talk, Emergencies! -and don't forget

Tuttle Twins- use code Cheryl15 for 15% off!

Support the show

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Dyslexia, auditory processing disorder, dysgraphia, dyscalculia - when faced with multiple learning challenges, homeschooling might seem daunting. Yet for Erin Cox, these diagnoses became the catalyst for an extraordinary educational journey spanning 14 years and culminating in the creation of a curriculum company that serves thousands of families.

In this illuminating conversation, Erin shares how her daughter who specialists said might "never learn to read" flourished through personalized homeschool instruction. Her approach - setting 15-minute timers to prevent frustration, incorporating movement through hopscotch sight words, and celebrating small victories - demonstrates how home education allows for the adaptation no traditional classroom could provide. "When you have dyslexia, it tends to take seven times longer to remember something than it does a neurotypical child," Erin explains, underscoring why the consistent, patient attention of homeschooling proved transformative.

The discussion takes a fascinating turn when Erin clarifies the misunderstood relationship between Charlotte Mason and classical education philosophies. As founder of Gentle Classical Press, she articulates how these approaches aren't opposing methods but complementary traditions that both emphasize virtue formation and living books. "Charlotte Mason was a classical educator," she notes, dispelling common misconceptions perpetuated by curriculum marketing.

Whether you're teaching a child with learning differences, considering homeschooling for the first time, or simply curious about educational philosophies, this episode offers practical wisdom and encouraging perspective. Erin's parting advice resonates with both seasoned and prospective homeschoolers alike: "You know your child better than anyone else... don't try to figure everything out in advance. Just do the next right thing."

Ready to explore Gentle Classical Press or connect with Erin? Visit their website where you can download complete teacher's guides for free before investing in any curriculum. If you found value in this episode, please consider supporting the podcast through the tip link in the description or by sharing with other homeschool families.

Erin is a veteran homeschooling mama to two graduates and two sweet little ones. She runs The Gentle + Classical Press and Good Oaks Farm from her family home in central Alabama alongside her amazing husband Danny. Erin's favorite things include dating her husband, learning about learning, embroidery, breadmaking, and all the books.

ShopGentleClassical.com

Erin's Instagram

What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!
This could mean life or death in some cases!
Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease:
Let's Talk, Emergencies! -and don't forget

Tuttle Twins- use code Cheryl15 for 15% off!

Support the show

Instagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast
Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

What happens when you choose to step away from mainstream expectations and reclaim your family's destiny? Mary Wainwright's journey from conventional life to intentional living offers a roadmap for those feeling trapped in industrial systems.

Mary returns to share insights from her new book "Taking Back My Life," which chronicles her radical transformation across every aspect of family living. She takes us through the stark contrast between her traumatic hospital birth and her subsequent empowering home births, revealing how this experience catalyzed her entire lifestyle shift. Rather than presenting her choices as the "right way," Mary simply illuminates alternatives many families never consider.

The conversation explores how modern society has systematically disconnected us from fundamental knowledge in just one or two generations. From growing food to understanding natural remedies, we've surrendered our self-sufficiency to systems that often prioritize profit over wellbeing. Mary shares practical steps anyone can take - starting a small garden, learning to make bone broth, or questioning medical interventions - that gradually build toward greater independence.

Perhaps most powerful is Mary's reflection on community building. She describes creating a "tribe" where families barter skills, share resources, and collectively raise children. This interdependence makes sustainable living not just possible but deeply fulfilling, addressing the isolation that drove many women away from traditional roles decades ago.

The conversation continually returns to fear as the controlling mechanism that keeps us compliant within industrial systems. By recognizing this pattern and making intentional choices about time, education, health, and community, Mary demonstrates how families can create lives aligned with their deepest values rather than external expectations. Her parting question resonates: "Are you living the life you want your children to replicate?"

Ready to reclaim aspects of your family's life? Check out Mary's book through her website marywainwright.com or leave a comment sharing which part of her journey resonates most with your own family's situation.

Mary's Book, Taking Back My Life which you can also purchase on Amazon !

What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?
HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!
This could mean life or death in some cases!
Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease:
Let's Talk, Emergencies! -and don't forget

Support the show

Instagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast
Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast