Realizing Genius Podcast

Let’s have a real talk about something that’s not only pervasive in our digital world but also deeply personal for many of us guiding our kids through the maze of technology—screen addiction. In the spirit of vulnerability and courage, I want to share insights from someone who’s walked a mile in those shoes: Michael Jacobus. With a wealth of experience from over four decades as a summer camp director, Michael stepped into a new arena fueled by his personal journey navigating his son's gaming addiction. This heart-led venture culminated in the creation of Reset Summer Camp, a beacon for families wrestling with the challenge of screen and gaming addictions. What stands out about Michael’s approach is his emphasis on digital detox not as an act of deprivation but as a pathway to nurturing healthy family dynamics and embracing our role as parents and educators in this narrative. Originally focusing on gaming addiction, the camp has broadened its horizon to confront all facets of screen addiction, including the magnetic pull of social media and the vortex of content streaming. Michael dives deep into recognizing the signs of addiction, confronting the stark reality that neither governmental nor parental controls are silver bullets, and highlighting the irreplaceable value of open, honest communication and modeling healthy digital behavior at home. His reflections on how the COVID-19 pandemic has magnified these issues strike a chord with the complexities we face today. But here’s a glimmer of hope—Michael has crafted an online course specifically for us, aiming to arm us with practical tools and strategies to guide our children's screen time with intention and wisdom. Sharing Michael’s story and the mission behind Reset Summer Camp isn't just about spreading the word; it's about inviting us into a collective journey towards understanding and action. It’s a call to lean into the discomfort of confronting our digital habits and to emerge empowered to create a more balanced relationship with our screens. Let’s engage in this conversation with open hearts and minds, ready to make small, brave changes that ripple out into the lives of our children, setting them on a path to not just navigate the digital world, but to thrive in it. BIOGRAPY Michael Jacobus is an internationally recognized author, child development specialist, and camp professional. He has an extensive background in youth-serving nonprofits, staff training, operations, administration, and outdoor education. Michael has been a Camp Director for over 30 years. In the summer of 2018, Michael started the world's first clinical summer camp program for teens and adolescents suffering from unhealthy screen time and social-media overuse habits and gaming addiction, Reset Summer Camp for Digital Detox & Life Skills. The program is planning an international expansion in the summer of 2022. LINKS Free Guide to Recognizing the Signs of Technology Addiction Digital Detox Parent Course   00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Screen Addiction Challenges 00:55 Michael Jacobus: From Summer Camp Advocate to Screen Addiction Expert 02:12 The Birth of Reset Summer Camp for Screen-Addicted Kids 03:08 The Ever-Growing Problem of Screen Addiction and Its Impact 05:47 Parental Guidance and Online Course for Combating Screen Addiction 07:40 The Importance of Parental Involvement and Communication 08:23 Identifying and Addressing Screen Addiction in Teens 15:50 The Role of Family Dynamics in Overcoming Screen Addiction 28:43 Practical Steps for Parents: Sleep, Nutrition, and Engagement 31:34 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Edited with the assistance of ChatGPT

Today, we're diving deep into the heart of homeschooling with Kami Harris, a beacon of wisdom and guidance in the homeschooling community. I'm thrilled to have Kami here to share her extraordinary journey with us. From her initial path toward becoming a teacher to making the bold leap into homeschooling, Kami's story is nothing short of inspiring. She embarked on this adventure when she recognized that the traditional education system just wasn't cutting it for her eldest daughter. That realization was the spark that ignited her passion for a more personalized, hands-on approach to education. Over the years, Kami has truly embraced the essence of homeschooling. She didn't just stop at teaching her own kids; she went on to start a homeschooling community in her local area, deeply immersing herself in Leadership Education and Leadership Education Mentoring Institute (LEMI). But what's perhaps most exciting is Kami's latest chapter. As her own children step beyond the homeschooling threshold, Kami is now channeling her vast experience into coaching other parents embarking on their homeschooling journeys. Kami's philosophy is rooted in empowering parents and students alike. She champions agency, choice, and tailoring education to fit each child's individual needs, all underpinned by the principles of leadership education. So, buckle up, listeners, as we explore the depths of homeschooling with Kami Harris, a true mentor and advocate for educational transformation. LINKS Kami's Website - CoachKami.com A Thomas Jefferson Education by Oliver DeMille Leadership Education Mentoring Institute (LEMI) Website - LEMIHomeschool.com   00:00 Introduction and Background of Kami Harris 00:24 Kami's Journey into Homeschooling 01:30 Exploring Different Education Options 02:36 Discovering Leadership Education and LEMI 04:56 The Impact of Mentoring and Community 05:25 The Role of LEMI and Leadership Education 06:13 The Influence of Kathy Mellor 08:59 The Journey of Kami's Children 09:49 The Entrepreneurial Spirit in Homeschooling 11:15 Transitioning to a Coaching Role 11:56 The Power of Agency and Choice in Education 15:51 The Challenges and Rewards of Homeschooling 23:34 The Vision for Kami's Coaching Services 26:46 Conclusion and Gratitude

In our latest episode, we delve into a narrative that’s uplifting and incredibly enriching for those of us steering through the homeschooling seas. I had the privilege of chatting with Sarah Reid, the visionary behind Innovative Press, who has masterfully turned the tides of homeschooling challenges to craft a beacon of educational innovation. Sarah’s odyssey in homeschooling mirrors the journey many of us embark upon. Confronted with the monumental task of ensuring her children received a rich and engaging education outside the conventional classroom, she faced hurdles that might have deterred the faint of heart. Yet, Sarah saw these challenges as opportunities to innovate and create, leading to the development of unique teaching resources, including the transformative Encephalon Code Book. The Encephalon Code Book is more than just an educational tool; it’s a reflection of Sarah’s belief in leveraging neurogenesis and neuroscience to revolutionize learning. This approach has culminated in a resource that not only simplifies the learning process but also captivates young minds, making education a thrilling adventure. However, Sarah’s contributions to the homeschooling world extend beyond neuroscience-based learning. Recognizing the importance of nurturing writing skills in young learners, Sarah has also authored a series of books on writing.  Sarah’s books on writing are a treasure trove of wisdom, providing practical tips and inspiring ideas to help unlock every child’s potential as a writer.  She also offers classes and the opportunity to be published!  Check out the Arcadian - an online literary journal, published by Innovative Press. Looking ahead, Sarah shared her enthusiastic plans for 2024, introducing a curriculum collaboration initiative that’s bound to spark excitement. This initiative invites us, the homeschooling community, to contribute our unique teaching resources with the aim of pooling our collective wisdom to develop comprehensive academic programs. It’s an inspiring project that highlights the strength of our community and the power of collaboration in enriching homeschooling education. Sarah’s story and her resources offer valuable guidance and support. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your child’s learning experience, improve their writing skills, or simply find inspiration in the face of challenges, Sarah’s insights are a lighthouse guiding the way. Enjoy! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:18 Discussing Homeschool Conferences 01:03 Introduction to the Encephalon Code Book 01:22 Exploring the Concept of Memory and Learning 03:09 Sarah's Homeschooling Journey 03:28 The Role of Charter Schools in Homeschooling 04:04 Sarah's Contribution to the Homeschool Community 06:56 The Importance of Academic Standards in Homeschooling 08:33 Sarah's Personal Journey and the Birth of Innovative Press 11:43 The Transition from Homeschooling to Empty Nesting 13:37 Innovative Press: A Platform for Homeschool Parents 19:37 The Importance of Community in Homeschooling 26:43 Closing Remarks and Farewell

This week's conversation with Shannon Moss, a dynamic and health-focused homeschooling mom and entrepreneur, was truly inspiring. Shannon opened up about her personal health journey, revealing how an autoimmune disease became the catalyst for her to take charge of her health and inspire others to do the same. With passion, she detailed her innovative teaching methods for children, focusing on enhancing their problem-solving skills and teaching them to identify their triggers. Shannon stressed the vital role of community in juggling homeschooling and entrepreneurship, advocating for the power of seeking support and the courage to ask for help. Moreover, she delved into effective strategies for managing children's anxiety and discussed the significant impact of diet on behavior, offering insights that are both enlightening and empowering. Shannon shares so many great ideas!  You don't want to miss this! LINKS Website - www.shannonmosswellness.com Email - [email protected] Social Media - @shannonmosswellness 00:01 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:29 Shannon's Journey into Health and Wellness 01:33 The Importance of Mental Health in Overall Wellness 04:02 The Power of the Mind-Body Connection 06:31 Incorporating Mindset in Health and Wellness 06:57 Teaching Kids to Manage Their Thoughts and Emotions 19:53 Balancing Homeschooling and Running a Business 25:28 The Importance of Community in Homeschooling 26:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to our latest episode where we dive into the world of innovation in education with Amaan Ahmad, a visionary from London who, along with his colleague Sid, is reshaping how we approach learning. In this insightful conversation, Amaan introduces us to 'Pathfinder', an Artificial Intelligence tool designed to enhance the learning experience for alternative education communities such as homeschoolers, learning pods, and micro-schools. Discover how Pathfinder curates safe and relevant content from the internet, guiding learners through a journey of discovery and application. This tool isn’t just about finding information; it's about nurturing a safe and focused learning environment that encourages the practical use of knowledge. With its focus on project-based learning and curiosity-driven education, it addresses the needs of the next generation of learners. Enjoy! LINKS WEBSITE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amaankahmad/ Twitter: @amaankahmad Email: [email protected]   00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation 00:18 Aman's Journey and His Educational Tools 00:48 Introduction to Pathfinder: An AI Tool for Learning 01:59 The Philosophy Behind Pathfinder: Socratic Discussion 03:39 The Importance of Project-Based Learning 05:28 Why Focus on the Alternative Education Market? 07:38 Ensuring Online Safety for Kids 14:04 Pathfinder's Launch and Subscription Details 14:38 Pathfinder's Use for Teachers and Parents 16:25 Aman's Personal Experience and Future Plans 21:08 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

In this episode, I'm thrilled to share with you the insights and experiences of two remarkable individuals in the world of alternative education – Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt from Vibrant Family Education. They delved deep into the myriad approaches to education and offered their unwavering support for families navigating both the homeschool and traditional education systems. Kristina, who comes with an impressive 27 years of experience as an educator, shared her poignant decision to leave the traditional school system. Her story resonates with many of us, underscoring the need for educational models that prioritize the well-being and values of both students and teachers. Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt are not just advocates for homeschooling; they are champions for a vibrant, family-centered approach to education. Their dedication to supporting families, regardless of their educational path, is both inspiring and empowering. It is my hope that this episode sparks new ideas and enthusiasm for your educational journey. Whether you're deeply entrenched in homeschooling or still exploring your options, remember that the goal is to create a learning environment where our children can thrive, grow, and discover their passions. Let's take to heart the valuable lessons shared by the Heagh-Avritts and continue to transform our homes into vibrant spaces of education and growth. Enjoy!   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:36 Discussing Different Ways to Homeschool 01:03 Supporting Traditional Education Families 02:18 Challenges of the Charter School System 03:31 How Vibrant Family Education Supports Homeschooling 04:13 The Flexibility of Homeschooling 06:04 Entrepreneurs and Homeschooling 12:12 The Importance of Intrinsic Motivation 13:56 The Decision to Leave Traditional Education 18:33 The Role of Nutrition in Education 19:47 Making Learning Fun 20:42 Conclusion and Farewell LINKS: Vibrant Family Education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristina.heaghavritt Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-heagh-avritt Instagram: www.instagram.com/kheaghavritt Podcast: https://bringingeducationhome.com

This episode I had the amazing opportunity to speak to Kimberly Gawne about her experiences with and views on traditional and alternative education methods. Kimberly reflects on her journey from enthusiastic teaching student to a passionate advocate for alternative education, asserting her fundamental belief that the traditional education system stifles the natural learning process. Touching on the limitations of the classroom, the role of parental influence, and the importance of individualized learning, Kimberly also predicts that the real 'rebels' of education – homeschoolers – will positively shape the future of the world. LINKS Website:  Star Students Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/starstudentslearning Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starstudentslearning LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/star-students-education-online/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@starstudents 00:04 Introduction and Welcoming Kimberly Gawne 00:25 Kimberly's Journey into Alternative Education 01:29 The Influence of Kimberly's Father on Her Teaching Philosophy 02:12 Kimberly's Experience in Teachers College 02:57 The Struggles of Conforming to Traditional Teaching Methods 05:14 Kimberly's Decision to Step Outside the System 06:08 The Challenges of Traditional Grading Systems 08:04 The Importance of Questioning and Critical Thinking 10:46 The Role of Home Environment in Learning 14:14 The Limitations of Traditional Education 21:15 The Power of Project-Based Learning 23:53 The Future of Education and Homeschooling 26:48 Conclusion and Invitation to the Realizing Genius Homeschool Conference

Get ready to dive into an incredible conversation with Jae Carter, a former public school teacher turned homeschooling advocate, in our latest podcast episode! Jae is the founder of the Homeschool Yo Kids organization, and she's here to share her inspiring journey and insights. Jae's story is all about her transition from being a dedicated public school teacher to becoming a passionate advocate for homeschooling. She'll take you on a journey through her experiences within the traditional education system and what led her to embrace homeschooling. She also shares about her amazing Homeschool Yo Kids Expos happening around the country!  Check out the links below for more information. 00:04 Introduction and Guest Presentation 00:18 Jay's Journey from Public School Teacher to Homeschool Advocate 01:55 The Birth of the Homeschool Your Kids Organization 03:44 The Importance of Individualized Learning 05:46 The Reality of Public School Education 07:55 The Power of Homeschooling and Self-Directed Learning 11:33 The Misconception of Socialization in Traditional Schools 19:02 The Value of Self-Advocacy in Homeschooling 23:04 The Impact of Social Media on Self-Image 23:54 The Overwhelming Information Age 24:49 The Importance of Parental Involvement in Education 25:11 The Gap in Parent-Teacher Relationships 26:14 The Reality of Public Schools 26:36 The Transition to Homeschooling 28:39 The Challenges and Rewards of Homeschooling 34:33 The Power of Homeschooling in Shaping Relationships 38:10 The Homeschool Your Kids Expo 39:44 The Future of Homeschooling LINKS: Website Podcast Traveling Expo Information

Don't get me wrong.  I know education is important.  I took the time and money to get two master's and a teaching credential!  Education is my passion!  But I find that sometimes what is really, really important in LIFE is not always taught in traditional school settings. AND THAT IS WRONG! Yes.  I'm yelling.  Understanding money and economics saves lives and relationships.  It gives a person freedom.  Money is a tool.  And we need to teach our kids how to use it. Silvia Alabmert Hala is the owner of Creative Wealth International, an amazing company that offers personal finance curricula and activities.  Join me in this episode as Silvia and I talk about personal finance, my experience with one of the Creative Wealth products, the Money Game, and more! Enjoy! LINKS Website: www.creativewealthintl.org Instagram: @creativewealthintl FB: Creative Wealth Intl

Welcome to the new year! Today is January 7th. Still going strong with your resolutions for the year? It's a common occurrence that many people break their New Year's resolutions shortly after making them. Statistics suggest that only a fraction, anywhere between 8% and 28%, actually manage to keep their resolutions. As homeschool parents, our resolutions often revolve around our children, which can add an extra layer of stress. That's why today, I'd like to introduce a different approach. Rather than setting resolutions, consider embracing intentions for the year ahead.  I also share what MY intention is for the year and how and why to get your kids involved. Enjoy! LINKS Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill and Sharon Lechter Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl The Attributes of Grace by John Baldoni