Homeschooling For Catholic Parents
You’re wondering if homeschooling is for you. But your inner critic is telling you you’re not enough. How can I teach my kid when we can’t get through homework without tears and yelling? How would the daily routine look? What curriculum will you use? Your house is already a wreck. You don’t want to feel isolated, like you’re on an island where everyone wears long dresses and raises goats. Plus, aren’t homeschoolers weird?I am so excited you're here! This podcast will give you peace of mind as you raise successful adults who understand their Catholi...
114- God, Multiply Me: Faith, Bioethics, and the Hidden Power of Motherhood
You don’t have to do it all—but you do have to know what matters.
In this episode, I sit down with Catholic author, bioethicist, and homeschool mom Samantha Stevenson to talk about the questions shaping our homes—and our future.
We dive into her powerful conversion story, the surprising path that led her to homeschooling, and why the everyday conversations you have with your children may matter more than any curriculum.
We also tackle big topics like bioethics, emerging technologies, and transhumanism—what they are, and why Catholic parents can’t afford to...
114 - Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet With Us (Powerful Promises Inside)
Press play and pray with us—this simple chaplet carries promises you don’t want to miss.
In this episode, we slow down and step into something deeply simple… and deeply powerful.
This week, my family gathered together to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet—and we’re inviting you to join us.
But before we press play, let’s talk about why this prayer matters.
The Divine Mercy devotion was revealed to St. Faustina Kowalska, a humble Polish nun in the 1930s. Through her visions of Jesus, recorded in her diary, she was give...
113 - Make Holy Week Holy in Your Catholic Homeschool (Without Doing More)
Holy Week is the most important week in human history…
And yet, it can pass like any other week in our homes.
In today’s episode, Maeve shares how to slow down, step away from unnecessary pressure, and intentionally enter into the richness of this week with your children.
This isn’t about doing more.
It’s about making space for what matters most.
💛 In This Episode, You’ll Hear
Why taking Holy Week off might be the most important decision you make Simple ways to bring the traditions of th...112 - Anxiety, Peace, and the Sacred Heart: Help for Homeschool Parents and Children.
What do you do when anxiety shows up in your homeschool day—whether it’s in you, your child, or the whole emotional atmosphere of the home?
In this encouraging conversation, Maeve sits down with Catholic speaker, counselor, and author Catherine DiNuzzo to talk about what anxiety actually is, how to recognize it in ourselves and our kids, and how to respond with both practical wisdom and Catholic hope. They discuss “trickle-down anxiety,” how to help a spiraling child feel safe, the difference between a tough day and a deeper struggle, and why the Sacred Heart and the rosa...
111 - When Phonics Aren't Working: Hope for the Bright but Struggling Reader
If you have a child who is obviously bright but still struggling to read, this episode will feel like a deep breath. Maeve welcomes veteran educator Kathleen Alford to discuss children who do not fit the standard instructional mold, why phonics is not always enough, and what parents can do instead. You’ll hear practical strategies, compassionate insight, and a much-needed reminder: your child is not broken.
Show Notes:
In this episode, we mention:
Kathleen Alford’s book: Say Goodbye to Dyslexia and Embrace Fulfill Vision LearningKathleen’s website: fullfi...110 - Homeschoolers Aren’t Socialized?! Let’s Talk About It.
In this episode, Maeve and Matt tackle one of the most common questions homeschool families hear: But how will they be socialized?
With humor, real-life stories, and a deeper look at what socialization actually means, they challenge the idea that classrooms are the gold standard for healthy human formation. From fire station field trips and community connections to awkward stereotypes about homeschool families, this conversation explores why children formed in the real world may be more confident, capable, and socially grounded than people think.
Isn't it hard to find Catholic friends?! I've got...
109 - Homeschooling as a Team: Practical Ways to Engage the Working Parent
In this edition of Homeschooling for Catholics, Maeve and Matt tackle a challenge every homeschooling family knows too well: how to bring your spouse into the homeschool rhythm without resentment or burnout.
We laugh about Ash Wednesday fasting fails (yes, peanut butter makes a cameo), explore why teamwork matters, and tease a few practical ideas like read-aloud rhythms, field trip bonding, and how having a “Principal” in the room can change your day.
Whether you’re struggling to make it a shared experience or just want more support, this episode will give y...
108 - When Your Child Walks Away: St. Monica, Cycles of History & Catholic Hope
Life is cyclical. History repeats. And sometimes… so do our parenting fears.
In this vulnerable episode, Maeve shares her own “Confessions” — from SAT calculator panic and Florida’s Bright Futures scholarship pressure… to a much deeper confession about a child who has stepped away from the faith.
Through the story of St. Monica and St. Augustine, the fall of Rome, and even a recurring lice invasion, we explore one powerful truth:
God works in cycles.
History teaches.
Tears are never wasted.
If you are praying for a child, wondering if your homesc...
107 - Simple Phonics Help for Homeschool Moms with Melanie Jeffrey-Teach Your Child to Read Without Tears
Teaching your child to read can feel overwhelming—even for experienced homeschool moms.
In this encouraging conversation, Maeve sits down with former literacy teacher and phonics expert Melanie Jeffrey, host of Phonics Rules for Kids, to talk about why many children struggle with reading and how simple, clear phonics instruction can change everything.
You’ll learn:
The best age to begin phonics instructionHow to help beginning, emerging, and struggling readersSimple 15-minute daily activities that actually workWhat to do when your child is stuck—or when you feel discouragedIf you’ve ever wondered...
106 - Gentle as Doves, Shrewd as Vipers: Parenting with Widsom
What does wise parenting look like in a modern world?
In this episode, we talk about staying attentive without hovering, protecting your child’s sense of control, and why waiting for problems to appear is often too late. We share real-life stories, research-backed insights, and practical ways to stay engaged with your kids as they grow — without shaming, spying, or stepping on their independence.
📚 Recommended reading:
The Self‑Driven Child – for understanding autonomy, stress, and motivationThe Anxious Generation – essential reading for parents navigating phones and social mediaAnother great parenting episode: 43...105 Critical Thinking, Catholic Truth, and the One Rule for AI in Your Homeschool
What does “critical thinking” actually look like in a Catholic homeschool? In this episode, Maeve and Matt unpack why critical thinking breaks down when we stop slowing down, questioning ourselves, and seeking truth with humility—and why Catholic families have a unique advantage when truth is the goal.
Using a real-life conversation sparked by a “Friendly Defender Friday” question (“Do Catholics believe they alone possess the truth?”), they walk through how to help kids research, analyze Church history, and synthesize what they learn—without getting swept up in half-truths, internet hot takes, or AI doing the thinking for them.
...
104 - Do Not Despise the Day of Small Things: Finding God in Ordinary Homeschool Moments
What if the most important parts of homeschooling aren’t the lessons you finish—but the moments you almost miss?
In this episode, Maeve reflects on a simple prayer—“Lord, show me what’s important today”—and how God answered it through ordinary homeschool moments: a rare nap, a family heirloom quilt, a child’s honest question, and the quiet joy of watching children thrive. Drawing from Scripture, Catholic tradition, the wisdom of the saints, and Charlotte Mason’s educational philosophy, this episode reassures parents that the Holy Spirit is actively at work in everyday homeschool life.
If you’ve eve...
103 - 20 Ways to Reset the Moment on Hard Homeschool Days
Even the most beautiful homeschool days have a behind-the-scenes mess. In this episode, Maeve shares 20 practical, doable ways to reset the moment and turn around hard homeschool days—with faith, humor, and a healthy dose of realism (and maybe a little wine at the end).
You’ll hear:
Why praying in front of your kids mattersThe power of Holy Spirit hugs (yes, they’re a thing)Simple resets that work for preschoolers through high schoolWhy struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re doing it right✨ 20 Ways to Reset the Moment
Pr...102 Raising Lifelong Learners in the Faith — 10 Catholic Homeschool Tools We Love
In this episode, Maeve and Mat share ten practical tools that have strengthened their Catholic homeschooling over the years — from faith-filled apps and saint resources to apologetics cards, family-friendly podcasts, and tech choices that support virtue.
You’ll hear real-life stories from their home, how these tools have shaped their kids’ faith and confidence, and why small daily practices — like saint-of-the-day readings, friendly apologetics conversations, and intentional tech — can make a big difference in family life and discipleship.
This one is equal parts helpful, encouraging, and a little bit hilarious (yes, including the sprinting Amazon driver and...
**Replay** 62 - Struggling with CONSISTENCY? Add THIS to Your Homeschool Routine.
As we ring in 2026, this homeschool family is learning in nature while camping in Georgia. Please enjoy a replay of Homeschooling for Catholic Parents' most popular episode of all time.
Thank you so much for tuning in each week. We appreciate you being here!
Episode Notes (Replayed January 4, 2026)
Originally published March 30, 2025
Are you worried about staying consistent in your homeschool? Dying to find the perfect routine that you'll stick to forever? It's a struggle for me too! Let me let you in on my secrets. I promise the...
100 - 40 Habits of Successful Families—and the 7 That Keep Kids Catholic
What does it actually mean to raise “successful” kids—and does success have anything to do with money?
In this milestone 100th episode, Maeve and Matt walk through a popular Rich Habits Test for Parents, answering 40 questions with total transparency (no pretending, no parenting flexing). From screen time and food habits to gratitude, grit, and goal-setting, they score themselves honestly—and invite you to do the same.
But here’s the twist: at the end of the test, they ask the question that matters most to Catholic homeschool families:
What actual...
97 - How to Get Kids to Listen: A Catholic Homeschool Guide to Habits, Character & Cooperation
Many new or discerning homeschool parents share the same fear: “What if we butt heads all day?” In this episode, Maeve and Matt unpack real listener concerns and offer practical, Catholic-rooted solutions for cooperation, motivation, and peaceful homeschooling.
They revisit the timeless wisdom of Charlotte Mason, explore what “first-time obedience” looks like (and why counting to three doesn’t work), and talk honestly about discipline—from biblical authority to gentle consequences to understanding each child’s “currency” of motivation. You’ll also hear a powerful story of how quickly even very young children can form beautiful habits through Mass and cat...
96 - 1000 Hours Outside: Ginny Yurich on Nature, Technology, and Trusting the Long Game (Part 2)
In Part 2 of Maeve’s rich and energizing conversation with 1000 Hours Outside founder Ginny Yurich, the wisdom keeps flowing. Ginny unpacks what it truly means to honor a child’s individual timeline, including her story of the daughter who became a certified personal trainer at 15—after years of slower reading and spelling progress that would’ve been labeled in a traditional system. They discuss why homeschooling lets you trust God’s design for each child, why biographies build resilience and perspective, and why nature restores the mind even when we don’t feel like going o...
**BONUS** Episode - The One Advent Habit We Wish We’d Started Sooner
In this bonus Advent episode of Homeschooling for Catholic Parents, Maeve and Matt pop in with a ten-minute “Advent present” for you: one simple, golden piece of parenting advice that can make Christmas calmer and saner for years to come! They also share an update on their family’s Flame of Love Rosary tally for November, rejoicing that 19,070 souls were released from purgatory through prayer. Along the way, they explain what purgatory is (and what it isn’t), touch on 2 Maccabees and praying for the dead, and offer a super do-able alternative to complicated Advent calendars.
In This Bon...
95- Why Nature Matters in Homeschooling: A Conversation with 1000 Hours Outside’s Ginny Yurich, (Part 1 of 2)
In this episode, Maeve sits down with Ginny Yurich—beloved author, speaker, and founder of the 1000 Hours Outside movement—to talk about why time in nature is nothing short of transformational for families. Jenny shares the honest truth about her early motherhood years, the surprising four-hour outdoor experiment that saved her sanity, and the science behind attention, mood, circadian rhythm, vestibular development, and why kids today are falling out of chairs and running into walls.
Together, Jenny and Maeve explore how outdoor time strengthens parent–child bonds, fuels creativity, anchors teens, and restores adults who feel digitally exhaus...
94 Raising Kids in the Liturgical Year: Catholic Homeschooling Through Advent & Epiphany, a conversation with Rebecca Grabill
In this beautiful pre-Advent conversation, Maeve welcomes Catholic convert and homeschooling mom-of-six Rebecca Grabill to explore how liturgical living can anchor families during the most chaotic time of the year. Rebecca shares her conversion story, her family’s journey into homeschooling, and the surprising depth and symbolism behind the Magi, the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, and the entire Epiphany tradition. Together they talk about raising truth-hungry teens, weaving liturgy into ordinary days, and how the Holy Spirit breathes creativity into the domestic church. A rich, joyful episode for parents seeking meaning, peace, and structure as th...
93 - When the Gospel Hits You Between Shipping Deadlines and Basketball Practice
Feeling like you're in a whirlwind season? Join us as we talk about deadlines, dental visits, sports schedules, field trips, and creative pressure—and find God speaking right into the chaos. With humor and honesty, Maeve shares how a simple Gospel reading from Luke 17 stopped her in her tracks and reframed everything she’d been carrying. From surrendering stress in the middle of real-life parenting demands to rediscovering zeal in her vocation, this episode explores what it means to serve faithfully (even when nobody sees it) and why God’s timing is never accidental. Listen in and leave encouraged to tru...
92 - Faith, Family, and Phones: A Catholic Digital Detox with Andrew Laubacher from Humanality
Maeve sits down with Andrew “Alob” Laubacher—worship leader and Executive Director of Human Reality—to talk about digital addiction and how Catholic families can reclaim time, attention, and joy. Alob shares his conversion story from “party, drugs, rock and roll” to adoration and ministry, then explains how modern platforms are engineered for compulsion (social-validation loops, intermittent rewards), and why our “phones” are really supercomputers designed to monetize our attention. He connects screen overuse to anxiety, loneliness, and a decline in empathy. He offers Human Reality’s village-based detox: phone-free meals, digital bedtimes, in-person adventures, and wiser devices (Light Phone / Wisephone...
92 - Crashed Files, Cry Sessions, and Catholic Perseverance: The Real Life of a Homeschool Mom
It’s Maeve’s quarterly cry episode—so buckle up. Between hand-foot-and-mouth disease, a Boy Scout rebelling against a blowtorch, a dream interview gone poof, and a computer crash that would make Job weep, Maeve somehow still finds grace (and a killer football analogy). Mat’s back, the Bucs are battling, Booker T. Washington makes a cameo, and the moral of the story? Homeschooling’s a lot like making bricks without straw—but with rosaries, coffee, and a few close wins, it still builds saints.
Show Notes
Published November 2, 2025
Flame of Love Rosary...
91 -What If Heaven Has Given Us a Secret Weapon for These Times?
It’s been a tough week in the Jemison household, but out of the chaos comes hope — and a spiritual weapon too powerful to ignore. In this episode of Homeschooling for Catholic Parents, Maeve shares a moving story of faith, family, and revival: from a college recruiting trip that turned into a surprising conversation about the Eucharist, to a mysterious rosary that’s changing lives across the world.
Discover the devotion that blinds Satan, frees souls from purgatory, and renews families through grace. You’ll hear about the origins of the Flame of Love devotion, the miraculous promises...
90 - Catholic Homeschool Organization Tips: Declutter Your Home, Strengthen Your Family, Find Peace.
Show Notes, Published October 19, 2025
In this lively and meaningful episode of Homeschooling for Catholics, Maeve and Mat record on the Feast of the Guardian Angels—and kick things off with angel hair pasta, angel food cake, and a hilarious family story at a trampoline park after a hurricane. (Yes, guardian angels were working overtime that day.)
From there, the conversation turns to one of the most requested topics from listeners: organization in the Catholic homeschool home. They share:
🏡 Practical organization strategies for moms of multiples, ADHD p...89- Side Hustles & The Proverbs 31 Woman: How to Build a Faith-Based Business from Home with Marie Hanson.
This week, Maeve chats with Marie Hanson — Catholic wedding planner, educator, and founder of White Lily Weddings — about how she went from teaching music to planning faith-filled weddings (and building a business that lets her stay home with her littles). Marie dishes on the quirky rules of Catholic weddings (sorry beach brides 🌊✋), the St. Joseph lily legend, and why debating college friends actually made her faith stronger.
They also tackle the big question: Can Catholic moms have a “blue flame” and make money… without guilt? Spoiler: Proverbs 31 says yes. Marie breaks down how to start a side...
88 -Eucharistic Encounter Recap: Adoration, Relics, Confession Fumbles, and Renewed Hope
Fresh back from the Eucharistic Encounter in Tampa, we share what it’s like to watch 12,000 Catholics fill an arena for prayer, talks, and powerful adoration. From Fr. Mike Schmitz and Dr. Edward Sri to moving moments with Matt Maher, we talk confession (ever have an Act of Contrition fail?), Eucharistic miracles, first-class relics, and why the Eucharist is truly the source of our hope. You’ll also hear a quick apologetics insight about the altar and priest at Mass, our “holy conundrum” about leaving early (don’t take Jesus to-go!), and a joyful call to deeper devotion.
87 - Inside a Catholic Homeschool: Daily Routines, Faith Practices, and Funny Fails
Ever wondered what a real Catholic homeschool week looks like—chaos, laughter, faith, and all? In this episode, we dish on the family’s routine. From early-morning workouts and devotional time, to co-op days, crazy Wednesdays packed with activities, and Fridays filled with faith discussions, you’ll get an honest look at the ebb and flow of our homeschooling life.
Along the way, you’ll hear funny family stories (like the never-ending bedhead our sons rock to Mass!), practical tips on building white space into your week, and encouragement to keep faith at the center of your homescho...
86 - The Value of Wrinkles: Why Catholic Homeschool Families Need Grandparents in Their Curriculum, with Isabel Tom
What if the greatest mission field for your kids isn’t across the ocean—but across the street? In this episode, Maeve talks with Isabel Tom, author of The Value of Wrinkles, about helping children discover the gift of older adults in their lives. From grandparents who live down the road to the lonely widow in the front pew, Isabel shares practical (and fun) ways families can build bridges across generations. Spoiler: you don’t need a passport, a degree, or even a driver’s license—just a kid, a smile, and maybe a slice of cake.
Isabel sha...
85 - Struggling With Feeling "Unqualified" to Teach Your Children? 5 Ideas to Reframe Your Confidence as a Homeschool Parent
Long Live Charlie Kirk, an inspiration of courage in the faith! Parents, we should draw courage from him as we homeschool and raise our kids in the ways of the Lord. Charlie was a brilliant debater; his movement was a raging success, a truly remarkable and passionate Christian. We don't have to achieve that kind of success to leave a lasting impact on our world through our family legacy. Stop feeling inadequate and unqualified to teach your kids. In this episode, we discuss two faithful Catholics who persevered through their challenging and seemingly fruitless ministries, yet still made a...
84 - Empowering Catholic Homeschool Families: The Essential Role of Parents in Youth Sports
Welcome to the “Metheny Manifesto” episode, where we learn that the only thing parents should be yelling from the sidelines is… nothing!
The main lesson? Don’t be “that parent” screaming at your kid to “rebound!” or “shoot!”—especially if your kid’s underwater at a swim meet and can’t hear you anyway. The Metheny Manifesto, written by a former pro baseball player turned Little League coach, went viral for telling parents to zip it and let the kids play. Turns out, kids just want their parents to show up, not show off their coaching skills (or their creative cursing...
83 - Mastering the Art of Homeschooling and Sports: Tips for Balancing Schedules and Weighing the Pros and Cons
Show Notes
Published August 31, 2025
In this episode, Maeve and Mat juggle homeschooling and youth sports like Olympic-level plate spinners. They weigh the pros (teamwork, perseverance, socialization, and the dream of raising the next LeBron) against the cons (schedules that make NASA jealous, wallet-draining fees, and locker room “life lessons” you wish your kids missed). The verdict? Sports are great—if you don’t mind living in your minivan and occasionally praying for rainouts. Ultimately, they urge parents to keep family time sacred, set boundaries, and remember: you can always play a mean game of backy...
83 - One Income Your Goal? Secrets to Budget and Homeschool While Both Parents Work.
Ever wonder how to homeschool on one income without selling a kidney? Join us as we cancel forgotten subscriptions, dodge $200 art classes, and debate if a flask at Sunday Mass is a budgeting hack or a confession starter. Learn why your 10-year-old doesn’t need a $1,000 iPhone, how garage sales are treasure hunts, and why “just because it’s on sale” is not a retirement plan. Spoiler: You can homeschool, pay off debt, and maybe outlast Gen Z on the dance floor—just don’t forget to wipe the lead off your lips!
Show Notes M...
82 - Catholicism, Critical Thinking, and the Foundation Every Homeschool Needs.
In this episode, we chat with Leslie Dirnberger—homeschooling expert, president of Aspire Education, and author of “School in Our National Parks and Some Secret Spots.” When given the best growing conditions, children come up with some profound thoughts that become lifelong memories for the proud parent who was there when they first thought them. We dive into the joys of outdoor learning, and why “neurodiverse” might just mean “normal.” Expect wisdom, laughs, and a few “grampy questions”.
Published August 17, 2025
Books
The Book of Virtues by William BennettReferenced as a recommended book for teaching v...81 - Overcoming Homeschooling Fears: 10 Simple Strategies to Keep Learning Thriving
Parents, God created your children as learners. These little people are constantly taking in information and learning about the world around them. You might not have thought about the fact that he created parents as teachers! You're already teaching your kids. In this episode, listen in for 10 tips for constant learning in your homeschool. (Hint: You're already doing a handful of them!) Lean in!
Isn't it hard to find Catholic friends?! I've got a solution. Hop on over to the Homeschooling for Catholic Parents Facebook community. Where we share about apologetics, homeschooling, and family life!
...
80 - Strugglng With Finding Guidance for Your Homeschool? 3 Essential Keys to CLARITY In Your Catholic Homeschool Journey
In this episode, we get a crash course in Catholic education philosophy, with shoutouts to St. Bonaventure (who apparently moonlighted as a motivational speaker) and St. John Newman (whose quotes are so deep, you’ll need a theological dictionary and maybe a nap).
The episode’s main lesson? Don’t stress about curriculum—focus on forming virtuous, faith-filled humans. And if you’re feeling lost, remember: God’s got your back, and so does Maeve’s book (now on sale for less than a latte).
So, whether you’re seeking peace with a “panting spirit” or just trying to ke...
79 - Immunizing Beliefs: How to Inoculate Your Kids Against Secularism in a Modern World
The statistics are downright depressing, particularly regarding our children leaving our homes and then abandoning the faith of their childhood. The youth exodus from church and the faith must be stopped! This episode will provide you with encouragement and wisdom to counter the tactics of secularism as you join the fight for your children and the Kingdom.
Show Notes:
Published July 27, 2025
Natasha Crain: Talking to Your Kids About God.
https://www.christianbook.com/talking-about-conversations-every-christian-parent/natasha-crain/9780801075520/pd/075522?en=google&event=SHOP&kw=family-0-20%7C075522&p=1179710&ut...
78- How To Keep Consistency in Your Homeschool. My #1 Tool For Consistency and Peace.
You want to raise life-lomg learners who love the Lord. But you don't trust yourself to stay consistent. Friend, this is a long haul, homeschooling. Here's the good news: You have over one hundred and fifty seven thousand hours to reach those educational goals, bond with your family, and teach them the ways of the Lord.
In this episode, you'll here Mat and Maeve's origin story, along with some tips and mindset shifts to give yourself some of the grace you need for the journey (the Holy Spirit gives the rest).
S...
77-Unlocking Free College: How Homeschool Students Can Master Admissions Tests for a Tuition-Free Future.
I'm not talking about Socialism! Truly, let's help our kids earn free college and some awesome college perks! Spending money, study abroad programs, new laptops, the list goes on, and you'll be giving them high school credit for completing the curriculum. The stories and testimonials are mind-blowing. Today's guest, Jean Burk, has helped thousands of people master standardized tests.
Show Notes:
Published July 13, 2025
College Prep Genius
Talent Search Opportunities Davidson Institute
Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth
Northwestern Talent
Common Ap...
