LET GROW

EPISODE 203 | What happens when we give our kids a little more room to figure things out for themselves? In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, Janna Koch talks with Lenore Skenazy in Let Grow about raising independent kids, building confidence through real-life experiences, and why stepping back can sometimes be one of the best ways to help our children grow. It’s an encouraging conversation about trust, responsibility, and helping kids discover just how capable they really are.ABOUT OUR GUEST | Lenore Skenazy is the author of Free-Range Kids and a leading voice on childhood independence. She gained national attention after writing about letting her 9-year-old ride the New York City subway alone, sparking a conversation that grew into the Free-Range Kids movement.Since then, Lenore has appeared on The Today Show, Fox News, and NPR, been profiled in The New Yorker, hosted the reality show World’s Worst Mom, and spoken to audiences at schools, organizations, and companies across the country. A Yale graduate, she lives in New York and continues to advocate for giving kids more freedom, responsibility, and opportunities to build confidence. You can find more about Lenore here or watch one of her shows. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 202 | What happens when AI makes your child’s writing sound more polished—and less like them? In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, we explore that question through a rushed cover letter, a college student eager to impress his favorite professor, and a young writer who used AI without even knowing it. Each story reveals a different reason kids reach for these tools, from looming deadlines to uncertainty about their writing skills. Join us for a practical conversation about what to ask before reacting, how to recognize the help your child needs, and why nurturing their own voice matters as much as improving their sentences.ABOUT OUR GUEST | Veldorah J. Rice is the owner and director of Write from the Heart. Her background includes three bachelor’s degrees and a dual master’s degree in English and Film Studies. Veldorah has spent her career designing rigorous, student-centered instruction. Her curriculum centers on developing critical thinkers through collaborative learning that meets students where they are. In her free time, she enjoys reading, knitting, and analyzing movies. She is proud to say that she has watched every film that has ever won an Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director, and Animated Feature. You can find out more here;  ⁠https://writefromtheheart.org/aiworkshopThanks to show sponsor BookShark. or at.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 201 PART 1: Artificial intelligence has changed the way we find information. What once required a simple Google search can now produce an instant, personalized answer—but how do we know whether that answer is accurate, unbiased, or appropriate for our children? In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, we’re exploring how to help students navigate AI thoughtfully and responsibly within their homeschool education. We’ll discuss how parents can understand these rapidly changing tools, establish practical safeguards, and teach children to question, verify, and evaluate the information AI provides. The goal isn’t simply to help students use AI effectively. It’s to prepare them to move confidently through an AI-driven world without losing the ability to think critically, solve problems independently, retain what they learn, or remain grounded in the principles their families value.AI will continue to shape how our children learn, work, and communicate. Let’s talk about how we can prepare them to use it as a tool—without allowing it to do their thinking for them. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Veldorah J. Rice is the owner and director of Write from the Heart. Her background includes three bachelor’s degrees and a dual master’s degree in English and Film Studies. Veldorah has spent her career designing rigorous, student-centered instruction. Her curriculum centers on developing critical thinkers through collaborative learning that meets students where they are. In her free time, she enjoys reading, knitting, and analyzing movies. She is proud to say that she has watched every film that has ever won an Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director, and Animated Feature. You can find out more here; https://writefromtheheart.org/aiworkshopThanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 200 | Welcome to a very special episode of Homeschool Your Way—our 200th!To celebrate, we’re bringing together the voices of homeschool parents from many different seasons of the journey. You’ll hear from veteran parents, families with one or two children, parents teaching a houseful, and those who once wondered, “Can I really do this?”Their paths to homeschooling—and to BookShark—may look different. Some discovered it through a trusted mentor or homeschool convention. Others found it during an uncertain season or after spending an entire summer trying to build their own literature-based curriculum. But they share something powerful: a love of learning, a belief in the power of great books, and the freedom to homeschool in a way that fits their family.Whether you’re opening your first big box of books, celebrating a graduate, or still finding your rhythm, we hope these stories encourage you, remind you that you’re not alone, and spark fresh joy for the journey ahead.Before we begin, thank you for listening—and for allowing Homeschool Your Way to be part of your homeschool story. Two hundred episodes wouldn’t be possible without you.Now, let’s celebrate!Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 199 | 10+12=22, right? When math becomes a daily source of frustration, it can be hard to know what your child needs—or what to try next.In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, dyscalculia tutor Jan Schulte explains why some children need a different path to understanding math and how the right support can help concepts begin to click.Jan shares insight into why a student may understand a skill one day and struggle with it the next, along with practical ways parents can build confidence, reduce frustration, and support children who think differently.This encouraging conversation reminds parents that struggling with math does not mean a child is less capable. Sometimes, they simply need the material presented in a way that works with how their brain learns.ABOUT OUR GUEST | Jan Schulte has a B.S. in Oceanography from the United States Naval Academy and an MPA from the University of West Florida. She spent ten years on active duty in the U.S. Navy as a pilot and instructor pilot before becoming a mom 24 years ago and homeschooling her two daughters through high school.As a homeschooling parent, Jan confronted several learning disabilities in her home, including her daughter's dyscalculia diagnosis. Despite their efforts, math remained an uphill battle marked by frustration. While her daughter persevered and succeeded, Jan knew there had to be a better way to support dyscalculic learners from the start.After her children graduated from their homeschool, Jan pursued certification as a Dyscalculia Tutor through Dyscalculia Services and received additional training in Orton-Gillingham Multisensory Math from OG Academic Math and Education. Her experience gave her profound empathy for children struggling with dyscalculia and for parents trying everything they can to help their children.Today, as founder of Exponential Potential Dyscalculia Tutoring, Jan leads a growing team of tutors who meet students where they are, patiently identifying their stumbling blocks and strengths while blending multi-sensory lessons with engaging activities. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing formerly math-avoidant kids excited to learn.Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 198 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way, where the podcast explores the many ways families can build a homeschool life that truly works for them. In this episode, host Janna Koch is joined by Jean Lee, founder of Academy of Chaos, for a conversation about something many homeschooling parents deeply want but do not always know how to create: community.Jean brings a unique perspective to this discussion as a neuroscientist, homeschooler, and community builder. Together, Janna and Jean talk about what it looks like to find your people while homeschooling and how building friendships and meaningful community as adults can become such an important part of the journey. While so much attention is often given to helping children form connections, this conversation highlights the reality that parents need support, friendship, and belonging, too.This is a thoughtful and encouraging episode about stepping out, creating the kind of community you want to be part of, and recognizing that homeschool life was never meant to be lived in isolation. Jean shares insight, experience, and encouragement for parents who are hoping to build deeper relationships, meaningful friendships, and a stronger sense of connection along the way.ABOUT OUR GUEST | Jean is a visionary leader, blending her knowledge as a neuroscientist, experience as a global marketing strategist, and strength as a serial entrepreneur to drive innovation. Her insight stems from firsthand experience as an educator leading project-based, team-oriented learning with a heavy focus on executive function development. Driven by her profound journey to motherhood, Jean’s work supports women, connects families, and prioritizes learning. She is a mother fully engaged, deeply connected to her daughters, and dedicated to helping others. Experience parenting neurodivergent children allows her to assist struggling families that are seeking information about alternative education methods and strategies.Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 197 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way, where the podcast celebrates the many ways families can create a rich, meaningful education that fits their unique children. In this episode, host Janna Koch welcomes Leslie Martino for a conversation about interest-based learning and the beauty of building an education that is deeply rooted in connection.Leslie brings a wealth of wisdom and experience to thediscussion. She is the author of Joy of Slow, and her work hasencouraged so many parents to step back from the pressure, slow down, and truly see the individual needs of their children. Her perspective is a refreshing reminder that learning does not have to be rushed to be valuable, and that there is so much beauty to be found in honoring who children are and how they naturally grow.Together, Janna and Leslie explore what it means to embraceinterest-based learning in a way that is connection-rich, thoughtful, and deeply personal. Leslie shares from both experience and conviction, offering encouragement for parents who want to move at a gentler pace, trust the process, and cultivate an atmosphere where curiosity, relationship, and individual growth can flourish.ABOUT OUR GUEST | Leslie M. Martino has over twenty years of experience teaching; as an elementary school teacher, a home educator, and an adjunct lecturer for graduate courses focused on the role of the teacher in supporting children’s individual work preferences. She homeschools her four children and works as an educational consultant, writing curricula, training teachers, and coaching parents to approach learning in an interest-based and child-directed way. She is a speaker on topics of education and motherhood and is also a contributing writer for the Wild + Free homeschooling community. Leslie enjoys teaching Pilates and collecting nature treasures (though not at the same time). She lives in sunny Florida with her husband and children. You can find her online at LeslieMartino.com and on IG @LeslieMMartino.Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 196 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way, where the podcast explores all the different ways families can create an education that truly fits their kids. In this episode, host Janna Koch is joined by Matt Bowen, co-author of OpEd, for a conversation about open education, his background as a public-school teacher, and the journey that led his own family to explore new possibilities for their children.Matt brings a particularly interesting perspective because he has seen education from more than one side. He spent years in the public-school world, but once he became a parent, the questions surrounding learning and schooling became much more personal. Like so many families, Matt and his family began thinking more deeply about what would truly work best for their children, rather than simply following what was expected or conventional.Together, Janna and Matt discuss that transition, how hisperspective shifted from teacher to parent, and how his family began exploring different educational avenues in search of the right fit. It is a thoughtful and encouraging conversation about staying open, following children’s needs, and giving families permission to think beyond the traditional path.ABOUT OUR GUEST | For over 30 years, Matt Bowman has been reimagining education for the digital age. As a former sixth-grade teacher turned tech executive and education entrepreneur, Matt saw firsthand how the traditional education system often fails to meet the unique needs of individual learners.Together with his wife Amy, Matt founded OpenEd (formerly My Tech High), which has served more than 100,000 student enrollments across multiple states, including many military families worldwide. Their approach focuses on blending personalized learning with technology and entrepreneurship skills, giving students the flexibility to learn in ways that work best for them.Matt holds multiple degrees in education and is an alumnus of Stanford's Executive Business Management program.He lives in the mountains of Utah, where he and Amy enjoy spending time with their five married children and four grandchildren (and counting!)Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 195 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way — the podcast that encourages you to build a homeschool rhythm that works for your family, not someone else's highlight reel.This episode? It's all about the money, honey. 💰Janna sits down with Cassie Ogluin — homeschool mom of three, Outschool event coordinator, and alternative education superfan — for an honest, energizing conversation about one of the most overlooked perks in the homeschool world: state funding. Because yes, your state might actually help pay for your child's education — and most families have no idea.From ESAs and micro-grants to charter schools and virtual fund accounts, Janna and Cassie break it all down in a way that actually makes sense. They share their own journeys into alternative education (spoiler: neither of them planned it this way), talk through what oversight really means for families, and give you real, practical steps to figure out what's available where you live.Whether you're brand new to homeschooling or years in and just now hearing about this, this episode will leave you informed, encouraged, and ready to dig into what your state has to offer.In this episode:💸 What ESAs, micro-grants & public funding programs actually are 🏦 How the virtual funding accounts work — and what you can spend them on 📋 Why oversight might actually be your best friend as a new homeschooler 📍 How to research your state's specific programs (even when they're not called ESAs) 🚀 Why homeschooling is growing faster than ever — and what that means for your familyYou don't have to do this alone — and you don't have to do it broke. Tune in and find out what might already be waiting for you. 🎧(Friendly note: we’re sharing education info, not legal or financial advice—always confirm details on your state’s official program site.)ABOUT OUR GUEST | Cassie, a homeschool mom of three for over a decade, tailors her approach to meet the needs of her neurodiverse learner. She is the Alternative Education Content and Events Manager at Outschool, championing innovative education solutions for families and educators. https://affiliate.bookshark.com/idevaffiliate.php?id=105&url=111Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 194 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way,the podcast that encourages you to build a homeschool rhythm that works for your family—not someone else’s highlight reel.Today’s episode is called “Well-Planned Homeschool,”and it speaks to one of the most common challenges homeschool parents face: staying organized in the middle of real life. From shifting schedules and multiple ages to sports, appointments, and everything in between, keeping plans on track can feel overwhelming.Host Janna Koch is joined by Rebecca Farris for an honest, practical conversation about what organization really looks like in a homeschool setting. Together, they talk through common roadblocks, simple systems that actually work, and realistic ideas for getting organized—and staying organized—without striving for perfection.You’ll also hear how involving the whole family can make adifference, helping kids take ownership of their learning while lightening the mental load for parents. If you’re craving more clarity, smoother days, and a plan that feels supportive rather than stressful, this episode will help you take meaningful steps toward a well-planned homeschool that still leaves room for flexibility. For more information; https://wellplannedgal.com/homeschool-organized/ABOUT OUR GUEST | Rebecca Farris didn’t set out to start a planner company—she simply needed a better way to manage her time. That skill began early, when at age 14 she worked alongside her dad, handling bookkeeping and administrative tasks using handwritten daily to-do lists. The satisfaction of checking off completed work instilled a strong work ethic and a lifelong appreciation for organization. Those same time-management habits carried into adulthood as she married young, raised five children in seven years, taught herself database programming, and launched a software design company—all while keeping life running smoothly through thoughtful planning. When she added homeschooling to an already full plate, simple to-do lists were no longer enough. Unable to find a planner that could handle homeschooling, household management, and family life in one place, she created her own. What began as a binder of spreadsheets quickly evolved into a comprehensive planning system. Recognizing its value for other homeschool families, she turned it into a business. The planners were an immediate success, eventually expanding to include tools for students as well. By continually creating solutions to meet real-life challenges, she grew The Well Planned Gal into a trusted resource—and remains committed to serving families for years to come.Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.