Homeschool Made Simple

In part 2 of our episode from the archive, we continue hearing from Missionary Betsy Hake. The conversation explores healing, leadership, and God’s work through the Jericho ministry in Honduras. Betsy shares how her illness led to deeper surrender, honest reflection, and a willingness to empower gifted leaders. She also tells the remarkable story behind her book, The Road to Jericho, and offers practical encouragement for sharing the gospel with confidence.

If you’d like to hear more from Betsy, check out episodes 17 and 18, where Carole interviewed her back in 2020 about her ministry, Jericho Ministries.

Clic...

Suffering and pain can be such a challenge in our lives. How do we approach the Lord when we face this? In this episode from our archive, Betsy Hake of Jericho Ministries shares how her trust in the Lord was strengthened through cancer treatments and God’s financial provision to pay for them. The little miracles along the way were signposts that God was using it for His purposes. Her daily reliance on the Lord will be sure to encourage you in your faith!

If you’d like to hear more from Betsy, check out episodes 17 and 18, wher...

We haven’t heard what Carole has been reading in quite some time! She shares what she’s reading, including Irish fiction, a biography about Audrey Hepburn, Christian nonfiction, and books she enjoys with her grandchildren.

She discusses books like This Is Happiness, The Anxious Generation, Shaking the Nickel Bush, and The End of the Affair, with reflections on family reading, faith, resilience, grace, and meaningful literature. Join us for inspiration to kickstart your personal reading library!

RESOURCES

+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode

+Buy some...

What gives parents the right to homeschool, and are those rights permanent? The discussion today with HSLDA Lawyer Amy Buchmeyer explores the legal history of homeschooling, recent threats to our homeschooling freedom, and simple ways families can get involved. Learn how to check your state’s requirements, track legislation, and get support through HSLDA. Join us to learn why advocating for homeschooling matters for all of us!

RESOURCES

+HSLDA Homeschooling 101

+Homeschool Laws By State

+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!

+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab...

History is everywhere, but children don’t have to learn it as a dry timeline. Rachel’s conversation with Kendyll Keene offers a thoughtful look at homeschooling with history through stories, museums, historical fiction, family traditions, and the experiences of ordinary people.

Kendyll’s shares why she loves history so deeply and they talk about historical nuance, asking better questions, considering multiple perspectives, recognizing bias, and introducing difficult subjects without overwhelming young children. Kendyll’s perspective on what homeschooling has developed in her is sure to inspire everyone who listens!

RESOURCES

+Buy some of our f...

What does a homeschool graduate appreciate about their upbringing? Rachel Winchester sits down with Kendall Keene’s to hear about her experiences being homeschooled from third grade through high school. Homeschooling gave her freedom to pursue ballet, teaching, reading, cooking, and travel while allowing her siblings to develop their own interests. Kendall describes how daily life together strengthened her family relationships and how her family’s adoption of her brother, Gabe, from Rwanda shaped her empathy and led her to study history in college.

RESOURCES

+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this...

Does the atmosphere in our home have a long-term impact on our children? In this episode from our archive, Mellany Zepelak continues the conversation with Carole Joy Seid about cultivating an encouraging atmosphere in the home through intentional words and actions. Parents play a powerful role in modeling kindness and blessing, which children then emulate among themselves. Children often view their parents as reflections of God, making a parent's words deeply significant. The discussion explores practical steps like apology, mindful presence, and creating a culture of grace. With effort and reliance on God, our families can build homes filled...

Homeschooling and family life can drain the life out of us. How do we maintain a right attitude and perspective in our families for the long haul? In an episode from the archive, Carol talks with consulting client Mellany Zepelak about how learning to create margin in her life and receive God's love has transformed her family life. They discuss how adding personal downtime, encouraging a positive home environment, and embracing your identity in Christ can radically improve your family dynamics. Don’t miss this hope-filled conversation!

RESOURCES

+The Blessing Seminar

+Buy some of...

Rachel Winchester returns, joined by Kara Beck and Linda Sarna, in this episode to discuss the role of reading in their journeys as homeschooling moms. They share how their love of literature evolved through different seasons of motherhood and affirm the deep value that fiction and narrative hold in their personal growth. They get practical by sharing ways to choose books, whether through planning, themes, or simply following what feels right in the moment. One refreshing highlight is their mutual agreement on the concept of stress-free reading… Join us for this practical and encouraging conversation!

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In this episode, Rachel Winchester sits down with Kara Beck and Linda Sarna to discuss their experiences with being in a “Well-Read Mom” group. They discuss some of the highs and lows of the books they read this year from the theme “The Year of the Teacher.” To hear more about the concept of the Well-Read Mom book groups, listen to Episode 262. Between the snacks, good conversations, and lots of interesting and challenging books, these ladies share all the wonderful things they’ve gleaned from participating. Join us!

RESOURCES

+Click here for a complete list of books m...

Do you want your kids to love music (and make joyful memories together)? In this episode from the archive, Carole shares relaxed and creative ways to add classical music to your homeschool—no stuffy lessons or stress required! This episode is chock-full of resources and easy tips for composer study, favorite books, sing-alongs, bible verses set to music, and a balanced idea of when to start formal lessons. With all these resources, you’ll be armed with lots of ideas to make music a natural, happy part of your home.

RESOURCES

+Click here for a comp...

Do you want your child to develop a love of art? This episode from the archive shares doable ways to make art a natural part of your homeschool routine. The discussion explores how to spot good art, some must-have book picks, and why quality matters—even when you’re on a budget. Learn about resources from classic children’s art books to tips for visiting museums and setting up a creative space at home. The key theme: making art fun, meaningful, and totally doable for every family!

RESOURCES

+Click here for a complete list of books...

You know we say “better late than early” in our method. In this episode, Carole and Rachel focus on why it’s actually better to delay formal handwriting work, especially for boys, and how following your child’s developmental cues can make learning much more enjoyable. One concept discussed was using fun, hands-on activities and a simple, artistic approach, like the Getty-Dubay Italic method, to build writing confidence. If you want practical tips on making handwriting—and homeschooling—simpler and happier, tune in and be encouraged!

RESOURCES

+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in...

Not sure how to make math work in your homeschool? This episode is packed with down-to-earth advice for keeping math simple, not starting too early, and helping your kids enjoy it! Several points were raised, including using games and daily routines to build math skills naturally, plus an honest look at popular programs like CTC Math and Right Start Math. If you want your kids to love math—and you want less stress—this episode will help you breathe easier and teach with confidence!

RESOURCES

+Click here for a complete list of curricula and tools ment...

Psalty has been a staple in some Christian families for decades. Carole and Rachel discuss the depth that the Psalty albums provide for growing our children’s faith for the long haul. They discuss the themes in each album and other music that have shaped JJ and her grandchildren. They talk about practical ways that encourage kids to reach for Psalty. Your young child will be enchanted by Psalty, so join us to hear all about it!

RESOURCES

+Click here for a complete list of albums mentioned in this episode

+Buy some of ou...

In part 2 of Rachel’s conversation with homeschool mom of 4, Hanni Go shares her journey of breaking free from the pressure of following other homeschooling families. She has chosen to value relationships and nurturing her children over the academic rigor that others might expect. Carole’s proven teaching methods and the example of the many families who have used them have encouraged Hanni to ditch the comparison trap to see her children be who God made them to be.

RESOURCES

+Download your own copy of the Truths to Remember list

+Click here for a co...

In this episode from the archive, Rachel Winchester talks with Hanni Go, a homeschooling mom of 4, about searching for a fresh homeschool perspective that helped revitalize their family dynamic.

Hanni talks us through the balancing act between nurturing relationships and academic pursuits. Though it took some time for her to fully buy into the Homeschool Made Simple method, she now sees the benefit of grounding herself in a research-based philosophy of education.

When Hanni needed a fresh perspective on homeschooling, she attended A Literature-Based Approach to Education seminar in Minnesota. Afterward, she wrote a list...

In the second part of our conversation with Lovely Bits Magazine writer and homeschool mom, Nicole Brignolle, we discuss the value of curiosity, connecting with local history, and seeing beauty in everyday life—not just chasing big, expensive adventures. We discuss the importance of rereading trusted classics, resisting performance-driven schooling, and nurturing each child’s uniqueness. Plus, we unpacked how centering God and beauty can inspire new projects, such as the Lovely Bits magazine, that blends faith and aesthetic excellence to uplift readers. Join us and enjoy!

RESOURCES

+Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto

In this episode, we talk with Nicole Brignolle, a former New Yorker now homeschooling in rural Tuscany. Her family's unexpected relocation led to a refreshing shift away from over-scheduled days and performance-based learning. They found freedom in using our literature-based approach by prioritizing margin, creativity, and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This episode is filled with helpful mindset shifts around your homeschool and your priorities. Plus, you’ll hear plenty of encouragement from your family without having to move to a foreign country!

RESOURCES

+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!

In the last of our series with Dr. Sears, he shares lots of practical ways to work wellness into your family life for raising healthy, resilient teenagers through intentional nutrition, sleep, and screen habits. Dr. William Sears shares insights into the science of sleep for brain health and the revolutionary concept of Neuro-Theology—how faith and neuroscience work together for each person's well-being. Join us!

RESOURCES

+The Smart Health Plan: Five Steps to Lasting Health and Happiness for All Ages, By Dr Williams Sears

+The Anti-Alzheimer’s Prescription:The Science-Proven Plan to Start at A...

We welcome back Chelsea Jacobs from Yellow House Story Shop to discuss the realities and rewards of homeschooling a child with special needs. Chelsea honestly shares her family’s journey, including the adoption of her son Gabe from Rwanda, his cerebral palsy diagnosis, and the everyday joys and challenges of homeschooling alongside complex medical needs and other neurotypical children. With 14 years of homeschooling under Chelsea’s belt, we hope this episode is a great encouragement to all who are walking the same path!

RESOURCES

+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!

+B...

Part 2 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind!

The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year but also provides a valuable community of like-minded families. Both of the Clonts now recognize the importance of following this clear, consistent educational plan rather than “hybridizing” multiple m...

Part 1 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind!

The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year but also provides a valuable community of like-minded families. Anna discusses her initial doubt about homeschooling, the encouragement she received, and how her confidence grew as she saw po...

How do you continue homeschooling when life gets hard? Rachel Winchester sits down with Becca Goodpaster to share her family’s journey through unemployment and transition. They prioritized family, leaned on the Lord, and were willing to share their struggles with their community, who helped tremendously. If you’re experiencing a crisis or change, this episode offers hope and practical wisdom for resiliency and perseverance!

RESOURCES

+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!

+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here

+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essent...

Are you a homeschool parent feeling unsure about teaching history because you don’t know as much about it as you would like? In this episode, Rachel Winchester shares how she began re-learning American history on her own by reading great books. She discusses the importance of approaching history through engaging stories and biographies, and that learning history can be enjoyable and deeply enriching. She reviews a variety of books she’s read on American history—from foundational texts like "Land of Hope" and biographies of key figures, to novels and family read-alouds that bring historical periods to life. Join u...

Rachel Winchester and David Arroyo, a seasoned homeschool dad and board member, discuss the benefits of homeschooling teen boys, providing an environment free from distractions such as technology and negative peer influence. David shares his family's experiences, including how homeschooling helped his sons develop a genuine love of reading and how it strengthened their family relationships. David also shares the idea of educating "poet warriors"—children who are both disciplined and creative. A great episode for parents who want to be intentional guides in their children’s lives and to embrace a whole-person education!

RESOURCES

+Book...

Are you homeschooling a teen girl? Rachel Winchester sits down with Chelsea Jacobs, a homeschool mom of three girls, to discuss how to navigate the teen years with flexibility. They explore how they balance academics, work, and service to help their teen girls thrive in whatever they do. Chelsea shares how she supports their emotional needs, encourages their unique passions, and maintains meaningful family traditions—even as schedules get busier. This episode will inspire you to continue looking to the Lord for wisdom as you navigate these potentially choppy waters!

RESOURCES

+Buy some of our fa...

Carole Joy Seid continues to talk with her longtime friend and renowned pediatrician Dr William Sears, in part 2 of our three-part series. They discuss the evolving nature of attachment as children grow, the importance of family culture, healthy discipline, and the unique role grandparents can play in supporting both parents and grandchildren.

Other topics they discuss:

+ investing time in the early years for spiritual development

+ managing screen time

+ practical strategies for fostering healthier habits

+ the benefits of outdoor play and movement for a child’s physical and mental health

In part one of this special three-part series, Carole Joy Seid sits down with her longtime friend and author, Dr. William Sears, a leading voice in attachment parenting. They discuss the science and heart behind attachment—from the earliest days in the womb to toddlerhood and beyond. Learn how talking, singing, and even humming to your unborn child lays a foundation for lifelong bonding, and why practices like "the golden hour," babywearing, and investing time with your little ones pay exponential dividends. Join us!

RESOURCES

+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!

Today, in part two of Rachel’s conversation with seasoned homeschool parents, Jason and Bre Kemp unpack the real-life strategies behind managing their family of 7. You’ll hear how they prioritize meaningful family dinners, find community both inside and outside the homeschool world, and intentionally build lasting memories through serving and working together. Perfect for parents seeking practical guidance on homeschooling with a large family, protecting family time, and keeping Christ at the center of their journey.

RESOURCES

+Books mentioned in this episode: 'Brian' series of books by Gary Paulsen and Old Yeller

+Buy...

Rachel Winchester welcomes Jason and Bre Kemp, experienced homeschool parents from California, to share their family’s journey with their five children. The conversation centers on fostering a balanced approach to education through the “three-legged stool” concept: work, study, and service. Jason and Bre discuss how they incorporate daily work and service into their children’s routines, including outdoor chores, cooking, and serving at their church. They share how these experiences have instilled discipline, responsibility, and gratitude in their children in an ever-evolving way as they age.

RESOURCES

+Books mentioned in this episode: Farmer Boy, The Hawk...

“The chores aren’t done…Should I really sit down to read?” In this excerpt from one of our in-person workshops, JJ Seid explains why a home filled with books matters more than wealth or degrees for your kids’ future. He discusses research and encouragement for busy parents, showing that reading is a powerful act of resistance in a screen-heavy world. Reading aloud, surrounding your kids with books, and modeling a love of reading are all keys to fostering that love in our children. Whether you’re homeschooling or just want your kids to love learning, you’ll find practical stra...

The story of Justin and Sissi Little is sure to encourage you as you consider homeschooling. They share their paths of coming from divorced homes and public school to recognizing their need for Jesus then jumping into homeschooling. The Littles discuss their initial worries, their desire for their children to be outside, the role of community and seminars, and the freedom the Homeschool Made Simple method has brought them. Join us!

RESOURCES

+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!

+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here

Are you homeschooling a high schooler or planning to? In this episode from the archive, we delve into the “golden years” of homeschooling, exploring the crucial role of parents in shaping your children's education during this impactful stage. We talk about the importance of keeping your teenagers close during this pivotal stage, maintaining hands-on discipleship and influence while preparing your children for college and beyond.

Discover how to maintain a strong relationship while navigating high-level courses, dual enrollment, and preparing for the future by instilling a biblical worldview through meaningful and insightful discussions. Join us for practical tips...

The transitional period between childhood and adolescence can be daunting. However, it is also key to shaping their spiritual growth.

Carole Joy Seid and Rachel Winchester discuss the importance of understanding middle schoolers' developmental needs. Cultivating an environment where children are free to embrace both their lingering childhood tendencies and the emerging traits of independence and responsibility is key.

This episode from the archive will encourage you to savor the middle school years with your child, helping you navigate this transitional period with confidence and joy. Homeschooling middle schoolers can be enjoyable!

RESOURCES<...

These years are when the "better late than early" approach is so important as parents prepare their elementary-aged kids for a gradual transition to more serious studies in middle and high school.

When homeschooling elementary-aged children, we want to take things slowly. Academics should build over time to prevent academic burnout.

Carole and Rachel discuss integrating study, work, and service by doing short, concrete lessons in phonics, real-life math, and handwriting. And of course, they encourage reading out loud to develop a love for reading!

RESOURCES

+Click here for a complete...

Have you wondered what the best approach to educating your preschooler is? In this episode, we delve into the crucial preschool years and the essential aspects that lay the foundation for educational success.

Rachel and Carole emphasize the importance of viewing preschool as a time for bonding, laying the foundation for future success, and fostering a love for learning through work, service, and study. They recommend focusing on life skills, character development, and nurturing attachment and bonding with children during these early years, rather than early academics. Join us as we encourage parents to listen to their...

Are you looking to understand the Homeschool Made Simple method in a nutshell? In this episode from the archive, we explore the research-based, interest-led, and literature-rich approach to homeschooling. Learn how to create a customized curriculum that fits your family's unique needs.

Embrace a holistic view of education that nurtures warm, loving homes and allows your children to pursue their interests under parental guidance. Join us as we discuss the joy of creating a literary-rich environment that shapes your children's character and theology, and how to factor in each child's unique needs.

RESOURCES

+...

300 Episodes! We are celebrating you, our faithful listeners and homeschool community, for coming alongside us on this wonderful journey. In honor of 300, we want to celebrate a homeschool graduate! We love to hear from students who were homeschooled using our methods, because they are the most amazing people you will ever meet!

In this archived episode, Carole sits with Sienna DeMoss who recently graduated from Liberty University. Sienna shares her educational experience being homeschooled.

From our conversation with Sienna, you'll hear what it really takes to prepare children from the real world. We’ll give yo...

In this episode from the archives, The Cavins were your typical public school family until their oldest daughter started to experience difficulty in her math classes. After homeschooling now for four years, they share a few of the things they've learned and experienced in making this switch for their family.

In this episode, you'll hear about: