Podcast
BaseCamp Live
Hosted by Davies Owens · EN
BaseCamp LIVE will equip you, the parent, educator, or mentor to climb the biggest mountains as you seek to shape young people to become exceptionally prepared, compassionate, and thoughtful human beings. Our guests are thought leaders, culture watchers, and educational experts who are seeing the benefits of a classical Christian education to form students into adults who can think critically, believe with courage, and serve compassionately.
30episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
A Framework for Classical Education with Lindsey Ralls (Series: What is Classical Christian Education?)
1w ago00:36:53Tap to summarizeWhat does classical Christian education actually mean? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, host Davies Owens continues the ongoing series on classical Christian education with guest Lindsey Ralls, Upper School Head at Summit Christian Academy. Together, they explore a practical framework for understanding the heart behind classical Christian education, not simply as a method or curriculum model, but as a vision for forming flourishing human beings. Lindsey shares how Summit Christian Academy developed a one-page framework to help parents, teachers, and students better understand the deeper purpose of classical Christian education. The conversation moves beyond the familiar language of the trivium and great books into topics like virtue, paideia, ordered affections, truth, goodness, beauty, and the intentional formation of students. Davies and Lindsey also discuss how the classical movement has matured over the last 30 years, shifting from an emphasis on educational stages and methodology toward a richer focus on formation and discipleship. They unpack several key principles that shape Summit’s approach, including formation over information, imitation over innovation, the givenness of the universe, and helping students distinguish between truth and reality. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why classical Christian education is about formation, not just information How schools can intentionally cultivate virtue and ordered affections The difference between truth and reality in today’s culture Why imitation and apprenticeship still matter in education Practical ways parents and teachers can create meaningful conversations This episode offers practical encouragement for educators and parents alike, especially those seeking to cultivate thoughtful conversations, wise affections, and a deeper understanding of what it means to raise children to love what is true, good, and beautiful. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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Beyond Slogans: Can Virtue Actually Be Taught? with Sharon Carlson
2w ago00:45:07Tap to summarizeHow do we move students from simply talking about truth, goodness, and beauty to actually living those ideals out in everyday life? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens is joined by Sharon Carlson for a thoughtful conversation about what it means to develop an “operational theology” , a faith that shapes not just beliefs, but daily decisions, relationships, failures, and future plans. Sharon draws from decades of experience in classical Christian education, student formation, counseling, and college advising to explore how schools and parents can help students connect theology to real life. Together, they discuss: Why students often struggle to apply Christian truth in practical decisions What “the good life” actually means from a biblical perspective How parents and schools can respond redemptively when students fail Why discipline moments can become discipleship opportunities The difference between knowing Christian virtues and becoming more like Christ How theology helps students navigate anxiety, uncertainty, and major life decisions Why “the best next step” matters more than fear of making the “wrong” decision Sharon also shares insights from mentoring students through college and career decisions, helping them understand that God’s will is ultimately about being conformed to the character of Christ, not simply finding the perfect school, job, or path. 🎧 Tune in for a rich conversation about spiritual formation, discipleship, and helping the next generation move beyond slogans into deeply lived faith. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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Raising an Anxious Generation to Live Sturdy with Keith McCurdy
3w ago00:43:04Tap to summarizeAnxiety is everywhere today, but what if it doesn’t always tell us the truth? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens welcomes back Keith McCurdy for another conversation in the Live Sturdy series. Together, they unpack why anxiety has become so common in students and parents, how overcommitment and fear-based decision making fuel the problem, and what schools and families can do to cultivate resilience, wisdom, and hope in a fragile age. Keith shares practical insight from years of counseling families, students, and school leaders. From sports overload to perfectionism to the pressure-filled culture surrounding today’s kids, this episode offers a grounded and hopeful perspective on helping children grow stronger instead of more fragile. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why anxiety often doesn’t tell us the truth The difference between helping and rescuing children How over-scheduled families unintentionally fuel stress Why students need encouragement, truth, and healthy boundaries Practical ways schools can respond to anxious students with wisdom and patience How parents can create more margin, harmony, and stability at home Join us as we discuss what it means to raise children who can live sturdy, even in an anxious world. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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Gen Z Mental Health: Insights from the Barna Report with Stephanie Shackelford
4w ago00:43:22Tap to summarizeGen Z is more connected than any generation in history, yet also more isolated, anxious, and uncertain about their identity and purpose. In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Stephanie Shackelford, senior fellow at the Barna Group and author of You on Purpose, to explore the findings from Barna’s latest research on Gen Z mental health. While anxiety and depression are on the rise, this conversation goes deeper. What if the core issue is not just mental health, but a lack of purpose, connection, and grounded identity? Drawing from extensive research and expert interviews, Stephanie shares six key themes that offer a path forward for families and schools: Creating tech-free spaces to reduce anxiety and restore focus Supporting parents as a critical foundation for student wellbeing Rebuilding real, in-person relationships and community Helping students reframe struggles with resilience and hope Returning to faith practices that ground identity and purpose Cultivating a sense of responsibility and calling beyond self 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why Gen Z is called a “generation of paradox” The surprising connection between purpose and mental health How small changes at home can make a lasting impact Why church and community matter more than ever This episode is both eye-opening and deeply practical, offering simple but powerful ways to help the next generation flourish. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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Forming Attention in an Age of Distraction with Tami Peterson
Apr 2900:47:29Tap to summarizeIn a world where attention is constantly pulled in a thousand directions, how do we help students focus on what truly matters? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Tami Peterson, founder of Life Architects Coaching, to explore the growing challenge of distraction and its impact on formation. From shrinking attention spans to the overwhelming number of inputs competing for our focus, the conversation highlights how what we pay attention to ultimately shapes who we become. Tami brings deep insight into how attention functions not just cognitively, but spiritually and relationally. Together, they discuss how modern technology, media, and even educational systems are influencing habits and affections, often without us realizing it. But this episode is not just about the problem. It is about reclaiming attention with purpose. From forming meaningful habits in the home to helping students develop discernment in decisions like college and vocation, this conversation offers practical ways to guide the next generation toward what is true, good, and beautiful. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why attention is one of our most valuable and contested resources How distraction is shaping habits, identity, and decision-making The role of parents and educators in forming attentiveness Practical ways to help students grow in focus, discernment, and purpose Join us as we revisit this must-hear episode and rediscover how forming attention can shape a life of purpose and clarity. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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When Schools and Home Align with Sadie Elliott
Apr 2000:41:16Tap to summarizeWhat happens when schools and homes truly align? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Sadie Elliott, Director of the Herzog Foundation Institute, to talk about one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of Christian education: the partnership between parents and schools. Sadie shares what she is seeing from her unique vantage point serving thousands of Christian school leaders across the country. Together, she and Davies explore why education can never be outsourced, why parents remain the primary disciplers of their children, and how healthy Christian schools are working to build stronger connections between school life and home life. They also discuss the continued growth of Christian education, the dangers of drifting into a “me too” model of schooling, the impact of technology on family life, and simple ways parents can become more intentional without feeling overwhelmed. Tune in to hear: Why Christian education is about much more than academics What Sadie is seeing in the growth of Christian schools nationwide Why parent engagement matters so much for spiritual formation How schools and families can either reinforce each other or work against each other Why the dinner table still matters How technology can erode attention, formation, and family rhythms What the Herzog Foundation Institute is doing to equip Christian school leaders This conversation is a timely encouragement for parents, teachers, and school leaders who want to see the next generation formed with wisdom, faith, and conviction. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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What is Education Actually For? with Ali Ghaffari
Apr 1400:41:42Tap to summarizeWhat is education actually for? Is it mainly about helping students get into college and launch a career, or is it about forming the kind of person who can flourish in faith, wisdom, and vocation? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens is joined by Ali Ghaffari, Executive Director of the St. John Henry Newman Institute and founder of Divine Mercy Academy, for a rich conversation about leadership, renewal, and the true purpose of education. Ali shares his remarkable journey from a difficult childhood to flying F-18s in the Navy, teaching leadership at the Naval Academy, embracing the Catholic faith, and helping lead renewal in Catholic education. Along the way, he reflects on how mentors, failure, and God’s providence shaped his life and calling. Together, Davies and Ali explore the growing renewal movement in Catholic schools, the leadership challenges many schools face, and why education must aim higher than test scores and college admissions. They discuss the need for schools to form students in wisdom, virtue, and vocation, while also encouraging parents to raise their expectations and stay actively engaged in their children’s education. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Ali’s powerful personal story Why leadership in schools is so difficult and so important What is fueling renewal in Catholic and classical education Why education must be about formation, not just information How parents can partner more intentionally in their children’s schooling This is an encouraging episode for school leaders, parents, and anyone asking the deeper question of what education is really for. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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Why Schools Need Charlotte Mason’s Wisdom with Patrick Egan
Apr 800:43:01Tap to summarizeMany parents today feel that education has been reduced to information transfer and job preparation. But what if education is meant to be much more than that? In this episode, Davies Owens is joined by Dr. Patrick Egan to explore the enduring insights of Charlotte Mason, a visionary educator who emphasized the formation of the whole person. Her approach focuses not only on knowledge, but on shaping habits, cultivating affections, and nurturing a deep love for truth, goodness, and beauty. Together, they unpack how Mason’s philosophy complements classical Christian education and offers practical ways to bring learning to life in both classrooms and homes. From narration and habit training to the importance of student ownership and joyful discovery, this conversation highlights what it truly means to educate a child as a person. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why education must go beyond information and focus on formation How Charlotte Mason’s ideas align with classical Christian education What it means to train habits that shape lifelong character How to cultivate deeper attention and meaningful learning Practical ways parents and teachers can foster ownership and joy in learning This episode offers a compelling vision for education that forms not just knowledgeable students, but wise and flourishing human beings. 🎧 Join us for this must-hear episode and rediscover what it means to truly educate the whole child. Show Notes: Hear Davies being interviewed by Patrick as well on the Educational Renaissance podcast… https://open.spotify.com/episode/5dGgITjCsYnSGSzC8CuhqQ?si=69deaacd06c34721 Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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Raising Human Beings Not Human Doings with Joshua Pauling
Mar 3100:48:12Tap to summarizeModern education often promises clarity, efficiency, and measurable results. But what if those very strengths are quietly reshaping what we believe education is for? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Joshua Pauling to explore the subtle but powerful influence of what he calls the “tyranny of technique.” When systems, metrics, and methods take center stage, students can easily become outputs to manage rather than persons to form. Josh brings a thoughtful perspective shaped by years in public education, classical education, and his work launching a new hybrid classical school. Together, they reflect on how common educational practices can unintentionally erode relationships, diminish wonder, and narrow our vision of formation. But this conversation is not merely critical - it is deeply constructive. In this episode, you’ll hear: What Joshua Pauling means by the “tyranny of technique” and how it shows up in modern education How efficiency, grading systems, and metrics can subtly redefine what success looks like Why relationships, trust, and contemplation are essential to true learning The role of narration, oral assessment, and embodied practices in forming students What it looks like to resist a purely mechanistic model of schooling How Josh’s hybrid classical school is pursuing a more humane and restful vision of education Practical encouragement for parents and educators seeking to prioritize formation over performance This episode is an invitation to step back and reconsider our assumptions. For parents, educators, and school leaders alike, it offers a compelling reminder: education is not primarily about producing results, but about raising human beings. Show Notes: All Saints Classical Academy Are We All Cyborgs Now? Reclaiming Our Humanity from the Machine Writing Portfolio Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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How to Find and Train Classical Christian Teachers with Dr. Robert Jackson
Mar 2400:43:52Tap to summarizeWhere do classical Christian schools find their teachers, and how are they trained? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Rob Jackson to explore one of the biggest challenges facing classical education today, building a strong pipeline of teachers. As more schools launch and grow, many are realizing that traditional certification programs do not prepare teachers for the classical classroom. Instead, schools are looking for educators with a love of their subject, a commitment to wisdom, and a willingness to be formed through mentorship and experience. Dr. Jackson shares where schools are finding teachers today, including recent graduates, second-career professionals, homeschool parents, and experienced educators searching for a better model. The conversation also highlights the role of apprenticeship, mentorship, and ongoing training in helping teachers grow in both skill and confidence. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why traditional teacher certification often falls short Where classical schools are finding teachers today How mentorship and apprenticeship shape strong educators What schools are really looking for in a teacher Join us as we explore how schools are raising up the next generation of teachers and strengthening the future of classical Christian education. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
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