What does it look like to homeschool and run a bookstore, and lead a nonprofit?

In this episode, I sit down with Jordan Anderson, a homeschool mom of four from Wyoming who is also the owner of Blue Mountain Bookstore and the founder of Four Angels, a nonprofit supporting families who’ve experienced stillbirth and miscarriage.

Jordan’s story is raw, real, and encouraging. She shares how she navigated starting homeschool during COVID, returning to public school, and then coming back to homeschooling with a new sense of clarity and purpose.

You’ll hear:

* How Jordan balances homeschooling three grade levels while caring for a toddler

* The inspiring story of turning grief into impact through her nonprofit, Four Angels

* Practical ways she stays organized running a home, business, and homeschool

* Why books and everyday life are her favorite teaching tools

* Encouragement for moms who wonder if it’s possible to homeschool and chase their own dreams too

✨ Listen in and be reminded that your homeschool journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s—it just has to work for your family.

About Jordan:

I’m a homeschooling mama of four in Wyoming making the best of our chosen path. I own a bookstore in our local town, run a nonprofit for pregnancy loss awareness, and strive to give my kids a hands on education.

00:00 – Introduction

02:00 – Meet Jordan: homeschool mom, bookstore owner, nonprofit founder

06:30 – Starting homeschool during COVID (and why she returned to public school)

13:40 – The challenges of public school and why they chose to come back home

20:00 – Balancing homeschooling with running a bookstore and nonprofit

27:15 – Jordan’s weekly planning and organization system

34:00 – Life and books as her favorite teaching tools

42:00 – Challenges and unlearning “school at home”

50:00 – Advice for moms balancing homeschooling with business or passion projects

56:00 – Final reflections + where to connect with Jordan

Resources & Links Mentioned

* Connect with Jordan’s bookstore: Blue Mountain Bookstore

* Follow Jordan on Tiktok: @jordan.paige.a

* Follow Jordan’s nonprofit: Four Angels (Facebook: @fourangelsnonprofit)

* Follow me on Instagram: @theorganizedhomeschool

* Subscribe to Voice Notes from The Organized Homeschool on Apple, Spotify, or Substack

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com

What if homeschooling didn’t have to feel like checking boxes or living up to someone else’s standards?

In this episode, I send voice notes back and forth with Megan O’Malley, a homeschool mom of three, who has built her homeschool rhythm around joy, curiosity, and connection. Megan shares how she let go of comparison, embraced a flexible yet intentional rhythm, and created a home learning environment that truly fits her family’s values.

You’ll hear:

* How Megan blends structure with freedom to keep learning fun and sustainable

* Why connection (with your kids and within community) is at the heart of her homeschool

* Practical ways to simplify your days and make room for joy

* Encouragement to release pressure and find freedom in your own style

Whether you’re in your first year or your tenth, Megan’s story will inspire you to homeschool with more confidence, clarity, and joy.

✨ Listen now and be reminded that homeschooling can feel light, doable, and deeply fulfilling.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction

02:15 – Meet Megan and her homeschooling journey

06:40 – Finding freedom by letting go of comparison

11:25 – How Megan balances structure with flexibility

17:10 – Creating a rhythm that actually works in real life

23:45 – The role of connection: kids, community, and joy

29:30 – Practical tips for simplifying your homeschool days

36:00 – Encouragement for moms in every season

41:20 – Final thoughts + where to connect with Megan

Resources & Links Mentioned:

* Connect with Megan on Instagram: @meganomalley and Tiktok: @meganreadsabunch

* Check out Wonder Garden Curriculum

* Follow me on Instagram: @theorganizedhomeschool

* Subscribe to the Voice Notes from The Organized Homeschool podcast on Apple, Spotify, or Substack

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com

In this week’s solo episode, I’m letting you listen in on a real voice note I shared with my homeschool planning group. We’re talking all about how to plan for the very first week of school—keeping it simple, fun, and confidence-building for our kids.

I’ll walk you through:

* My week-one academic plan (hint: it’s review-heavy and joy-filled).

* The back-to-school traditions I’ve mapped out for each day.

* How I’m setting up rhythms, routines, and independent learning spaces to make the year run more smoothly.

Whether you’re weeks away from starting or already in full swing, you can pull from this to set up a calm, confident launch to your homeschool year.

📥 Free Resource: Want the full 8-week Back-to-School Prep Schedule? Grab it here https://stan.store/theorganizedhomeschool/p/summer-start-strong-series. Even if you’re short on time, you can adapt it to fit your needs!

Chapters

* 00:00 – Welcome & Why I’m Sharing This Voice Note

* 01:00 – The Week 1 Planning Checklist

* 03:00 – Setting Up Independent Spaces

* 04:00 – My Week One Academic Plan

* 05:30 – Back-to-School Traditions, Day by Day

* 07:00 – Teaching Rhythms & Routines

* 10:00 – Independent Math Centers

* 11:30 – Building Reading Habits

* 12:30 – Wrapping Up Week One

✨ If this episode was helpful, share it with a homeschool friend who could use some back-to-school calm. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a voice note!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com

In this episode of Voice Notes from the Organized Homeschool, I am thrilled to chat with Tam, a seasoned homeschool mom of three from Georgia. We talk all about her experiences, from the accidental start of her homeschooling journey to the organized, community-oriented approach she embraces today. Tam shares invaluable insights on managing different grade levels, utilizing technology for organization, and fostering a love of learning in her kids. We also discuss the importance of finding the right community and mentors, both for parents and children. Towards the end, Tam offers her top book recommendations and talks about her detailed preparation for high school years in homeschooling. Tune in for practical advice, relatable stories, and tips on creating a fulfilling homeschool experience.

Connect with Tam:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/cousintam

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@coustintam

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CousinTam3

Common App guide for homeschoolers

https://hslda.org/post/a-full-guide-to-the-common-app

High School Homeschool Transcript on Etsy

https://www.etsy.com/listing/1233265492/editable-high-school-transcript-template?ref=shop_home_feat_1&logging_key=92ac49f80ffba080e8f4da1cc0cfc72d6050b022%3A1233265492

High School Homeschool Transcript on TPT

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/EDITABLE-High-School-Transcript-with-GPA-Calculator-8286958

Tam's Book: Homeschool Help Desk Guide

https://amzn.to/3IcWjWt

Tam's Podcast on Spotify

1PTv8BtnVEClRzIGTnbJta?si=Y3ig9vzCSj-5k5wxmXPJSA

About Tam:

Tam Wright is a devoted wife, homeschooling mom of three, and lifelong book lover from Georgia with over a decade of experience nurturing a love of learning in her home. She’s the steady voice and hands-on guide behind her online community, where she helps nervous-but-eager parents take their first steps into homeschooling with confidence. Whether through virtual connections or shared resources, Tam’s mission is simple: to remind families that homeschooling isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, embracing the journey, and discovering the joy of learning together. With warmth and real-world wisdom, she turns overwhelm into opportunity, one parent at a time.

00:00 Welcome to Voice Notes from the Organized Homeschool

00:34 Introduction to Tam and Her Homeschooling Journey

02:09 Accidental Beginnings of Homeschooling

03:12 Homeschooling Through Life Changes

04:51 Balancing Homeschooling and Work

05:29 Organizational Tips and Tools

09:07 Empowering Children to Own Their Learning

12:02 Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

21:35 Advice for Overwhelmed Homeschoolers

28:21 Using Online Platforms for Homeschooling

30:38 Preparing for College Admissions

31:56 Homeschooling: A Unique Journey

33:04 Letting Go of Ego in Homeschooling

34:53 Choosing Online Learning

35:53 Backwards Planning for Homeschooling

41:29 Finding Mentors and Community

44:15 Homeschooling Resources and Strategies

50:10 Building Social Networks for Kids

54:02 Book Recommendations

57:02 Final Thoughts and Tips

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com

Hey, welcome back to Voice Notes from the Organized Homeschool! I just wrapped up a fun-filled weekend celebrating my son's Star Wars-themed birthday party. Now, I'm jumping back into school planning mode.

Today, I want to share some tips and personal experiences on getting organized for the new homeschool year. I finally transitioned my planner from summer to fall, wrote down my 25-26 school year curriculum picks, and completed my vision section for the year.

If you're still on the hunt for the perfect planner or need new ideas, be sure to check out my Homeschool for Freedom Planner in the link below. Tune in for more details!

[PLANNER] Grab your Homeschool For Freedom Planner today!

00:00 Welcome Back to Voice Notes from the Organized Homeschool

00:27 Birthday Weekend Recap

01:05 Transitioning to Back-to-School Planning

02:04 Setting Up the Planner

04:31 Curriculum Planning

08:53 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

09:43 Closing Remarks and Planner Promotion

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com

In this episode of Voice Notes from the Organized Homeschool, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Yoni, also known as Mama Yo. She shares her 33-year-long homeschooling story, starting from her early days as a young mom on the South Side of Chicago, overcoming societal stereotypes, to nurturing her children's growth through different stages of life.

Mama Yo opens up about the challenges she faced, including societal misconceptions about urban homeschooling and integrating into the community. She also discusses her approach to homeschooling her youngest son, who is on the autism spectrum, and the creative methods she uses to keep learning engaging and effective. With a focus on the mental, emotional, and spiritual development of her children, this conversation is a treasure trove of insights, tips on finding your homeschool rhythm, and the importance of giving oneself grace.

Connect with Yoni:

Website: www.yurbaz.net

About Yoni:

Yoni is the founder of yurbaz.net, a digital magazine for alternative urban moms, and the creator of "Homeschoolin’ & Coolin’ Vol. I," a guide helping parents build a learning lifestyle that fits their family. As Mama Yo, she shares her 33-year homeschooling journey—from her start as a young mom on Chicago’s South Side breaking stereotypes to raising her kids through every stage of life. She openly talks about the challenges, like fighting misconceptions about urban homeschooling and finding her place in the community. Yoni brings a unique perspective as a mom homeschooling her youngest son, who is autistic, using fun, creative and flexible methods of learning.

00:00 Welcome to Voice Notes from the Organized Homeschool

00:42 Yoni's Homeschooling Journey: From Teen Mom to Advocate

04:01 Challenges and Triumphs in Homeschooling

05:38 A Day in the Life: Organizing and Balancing Homeschooling

12:32 Finding Rhythm and Overcoming Challenges

17:06 Building Community and Mental Health

27:30 Resources and Reflections for Homeschooling

37:25 Final Thoughts and Staying Connected

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com

📣 THIS WEEK ONLY! Homeschool For Freedom Planner Sale

Today, I'm recording from my car right after a busy morning of camp drop-off and Starbucks run. Tune in as I talk about juggling client work with homeschooling, the joys of having a babysitter, and my switch from portfolio reviews to using an umbrella organization for homeschooling compliance.

If you've ever wondered about Maryland's homeschool laws or debated between portfolio reviews and umbrella organizations, this episode is for you.

Plus, there's a special back-to-school sale on my planner you won't want to miss. Grab the planner, save time, and get organized for the new school year.

Link to planner and more info mentioned in the episode available below.

📍Grab your Homeschool For Freedom Planner

📱 TikTok Video Walkthrough of the Planner

👀 Preview the Planner Here

00:00 Introduction and Camp Drop-Off

01:57 Homeschooling Portfolio Reviews

07:27 Switching to an Umbrella Organization

10:49 Conclusion and Planner Promotion

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com

Join me and guest Destiny McCoy as we chat about her journey of homeschooling her three kids while managing multiple communities and a business. Destiny shares her invaluable insights into creating a balanced, nurturing environment for both children and moms.

Learn about her local homeschool group in Maryland, D.F.G. Homeschooling, The Mom Collective virtual community, and her tips on how to stay organized amidst the chaos. We also touch on the importance of listening to your kids, supporting each other in homeschooling and beyond, and fostering leadership skills in older children.

Tune in for this heartfelt, inspiring conversation that just might change the way you think about balancing homeschooling with the rest of life.

Connect with Destiny:

Website:

https://www.destinedforgreatnesshomeschooling.com

Learn more about my heart for homeschooling, community, and supporting called moms.

"Called and Capable" Video Journal:

https://faith-in-beauty-2.kit.com/0c11d0f4a4

A powerful 3-day video journal to remind you that you are called, capable, and not alone.

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/destinedforgreatnesshomeschool

Behind-the-scenes encouragement for homeschool moms—faith, field trips, and real life.

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@destinedforgreatnesshomeschool

Quick tips and relatable moments from our homeschooling journey.

Podcast – God is Calling You to Homeschool… Now What?

https://www.destinedforgreatnesshomeschooling.com/podcast-1

Honest conversations and faith-based support for moms navigating the call to homeschool.

Homeschool Mom Community (Membership Info):

https://destined-for-greatness-homeschooling.mn.co/plans/1519979

A supportive, faith-rooted space for homeschool moms looking for connection, resources, and real encouragement.

Local Homeschool Group (Maryland-based):

https://www.destinedforgreatnesshomeschooling.com/localhomeschoolgroup

Live in Maryland? Join our local D.F.G. group for monthly meet-ups, field trips, and community-building events for homeschool families.

About Destiny:

Destiny McKoy is a homeschooling mom of three and the heart behind D.F.G. Homeschooling, a faith-based movement created to support and equip moms called to lead their homes with intention. She's the host of the God is Calling You to Homeschool… Now What? podcast, a speaker passionate about encouraging moms to walk boldly in their God-given assignments, and the founder of a thriving homeschool community in Maryland that brings families together for meet-ups, field trips, and leadership opportunities. Through her words and her work, Destiny reminds moms that when they are supported, their whole household thrives.

00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome

00:59 Meet Destiny McCoy: Homeschooling Journey

01:30 Supporting Homeschool Families: Beyond Core Curriculum

02:32 The Mom Collective: Virtual Support for Moms

04:25 Balancing Homeschooling and Personal Life

07:38 Challenges and Strategies in Homeschooling

11:03 Consistency and Flexibility in Homeschooling

15:32 Creating a Supportive Homeschool Community

35:47 Balancing Homeschooling and Life Lessons

36:14 Adjusting Homeschooling Based on Children's Feedback

36:52 Creating a Homeschooling Community

38:11 Consistency and Execution in Homeschooling

39:53 The Importance of Community in Homeschooling

41:49 Destin for Greatness: A Unique Approach

45:15 Supporting Homeschool Moms Holistically

47:51 The Mom Collective: Building a Support Network

01:07:31 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com

[FREE] Join our Back to School Prep Community

Welcome to another episode of Voice Notes from the Organized Homeschool! In this episode, I’m sharing something I’m prioritizing this year - habits! I recently returned from a vacation and have been focused on engaging with my back-to-school prep community on Telegram, which has about 35 members. Today, I'm excited to dive into three categories of habits that help keep my homeschool life organized and stress-free: school habits, home habits, and anchor habits. I’ll provide examples of each and how they contribute to a smoother, more present, and organized homeschool experience. We'll also discuss my 'toddler test' for ensuring habits are quick and simple enough to fit into our daily lives. Don't miss out on these practical tips to streamline your homeschool routine. Join our back-to-school planning group for detailed schedules and extra support. Let's get organized together!

00:00 Introduction and Current Updates

01:45 Prioritizing Habits for a Calm and Organized Life

02:48 Documenting and Sharing Homeschool Habits

05:29 School Habits for Daily Organization

08:08 Home Habits for a Tidy Environment

13:34 Anchor Habits for Sustainable Organization

15:55 Conclusion and Community Invitation

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com

In this episode of Voice Notes from the Organized Homeschool, I chat with Natasha about her inspiring journey homeschooling her autistic son, Kalehl.

Natasha shares her family’s transition from traditional schooling to homeschooling, highlighting the challenges they've faced and how they've overcome them. She discusses the importance of balancing academics with essential life skills, the unique strategies they've implemented, and the emotional journey that comes with being both a parent and educator.

Join us to hear the heartwarming and candid experiences of a homeschooling mom who is dedicated to providing her son with the tools he needs to thrive. This episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating the homeschooling path, particularly those with special needs children.

Connect with Natasha

Tiktok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolingautisticson

Check out Natasha’s 10-book series on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/DIFFERENTLY-TOGETHER-10-book-series/dp/B0CZ9V9G6Q

About Natasha:

Natasha is a mom, advocate, and homeschooling parent to her autistic son, Kalehl. Homeschooling wasn’t part of her original plan, but it’s turned into one of the most rewarding decisions she’s made for her family. Over the past six years, she’s learned so much from the challenges, breakthroughs, and beautiful moments that come with creating a learning space just right for Kalehl’s needs. Through her journey, she hopes to inspire other parents to trust their instincts.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:36 Natasha's Homeschooling Journey

02:36 Challenges and Strategies in Homeschooling

05:10 Balancing Academics and Life Skills

06:36 Personal Experiences and Reflections

09:09 Implementing Effective Strategies

12:03 Using Children's Books for Learning

15:33 The Importance of Emotional Regulation

20:31 Transition to Homeschooling

27:37 Natasha's Background and Experience

34:30 Overcoming Doubts and Setting Strategies

36:44 Implementing Daily Routines

38:39 Personal Hygiene and Independence

41:30 Balancing Education and Free Time

44:37 Reflecting on the Homeschooling Journey

54:03 Creating an Individualized Education Plan

57:26 Advice for Homeschooling Parents

01:03:40 Final Thoughts and Resources

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com