Podcast
Everyday Educator
Hosted by Classical Conversations Inc. · EN
Classical Conversations supports homeschooling parents by cultivating the love of learning through a Christian worldview in fellowship with other families. We believe there are three keys to a great education: classical, Christian, and Community.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Planning Now for a Grace-Filled Holiday Season
Oct 2800:54:31Tap to summarizeThe holidays can be the most wonderful—and most complicated—time of the year. From navigating family dynamics to keeping Christ at the center while culture shouts louder, how do we love our neighbors well when everything feels extra? Join Lisa Bailey, Delise Germond, and Alicia Clark for an honest, refreshing conversation about navigating the holiday season with grace. These three homeschool moms get real about the joys and stressors of the holidays—from gift-giving anxiety and packed schedules to tricky family encounters and teaching kids about Santa (or not!). You'll laugh, nod along, and maybe even tear up as they discuss: The tension between materialistic pressure and generous gift-giving How to set expectations early (before the post-turkey bombshell!) Managing the "busyness of good things" while leaving margin for rest Teaching children to focus on Jesus when culture is screaming something else Practical ways to love your neighbors during emotionally tender seasons What to do when relatives press hot-button issues at family gatherings Creative approaches to Halloween that honor your values Whether you're a holiday enthusiast or someone who dreads the stress, this conversation offers wisdom, solidarity, and actionable ideas for making the season truly about loving God and loving others well. Plus, you'll get some genius life hacks (double batch those favorite recipes!) that just might save your December sanity. This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by Judson College: At Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, we equip passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace. Experience vibrant community through our unique House System while receiving comprehensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts to make your divine calling affordable. Ready to answer your calling? Apply to Judson College today and step into God's plan for your life. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/
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Transforming British Home Education with Classical Conversations
Oct 2100:59:42Tap to summarizeWhat if homeschooling could feel like discovering Narnia while everyone else is just playing hide and seek? In this inspiring episode of Everyday Educator, Lisa Bailey connects with Janine Bell, Country Coordinator for Classical Conversations in the United Kingdom, for a fascinating conversation about building classical Christian communities across the pond. Janine shares her family's pioneering journey as home educators in a country where most people still think homeschooling is illegal—and how God has used Classical Conversations to transform not just education, but entire family cultures. What You'll Discover: The surprising history of home education in the UK (and why most Brits thought it was against the law!) How Classical Conversations is helping rebuild community and authentic conversation in a culture known for its "stiff upper lip" The story of the UK's first CC graduate and the miraculous provision of classical Christian universities Real barriers facing home educators in Britain—including pending legislation that could restrict parental freedom Why British Christians struggle with the idea that homeschooling might be "hiding their light" (and Janine's powerful response) How God is using "the new dog to teach the old dog" as America shares classical education with its British roots Janine's transparency about her own doubts and discoveries—from making report cards at home to becoming the UK's country coordinator—offers hope to every parent who wonders if they're equipped for this calling. Her passion for seeing families discover the "Narnia" of classical community is absolutely contagious. This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by: Judson College At Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, we equip passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace. Experience vibrant community through our unique House System while receiving comprehensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts to make your divine calling affordable. Ready to answer your calling? Apply to Judson College today and step into God's plan for your life. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/
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Beyond Tests: A Classical Approach to Assessment
Oct 1400:45:48Tap to summarizeForget the red pen and grade book—what if the best way to assess your child's learning had nothing to do with tests at all? In this episode of the Everyday Educator, Lisa Bailey sits down with veteran homeschoolers Deb Switzer and Tim Knotts to revolutionize how we think about assessment in classical education. Both seasoned parents and community directors share their hard-won wisdom about moving beyond artifact-grading to truly knowing what our children are learning—and who they're becoming. What You'll Discover: Why conversation trumps testing as the gold standard for assessment How to set meaningful learning goals that look different for each child (even in the same family!) The truth about Blue Book assessments—what they are, how to use them well, and common pitfalls to avoid Practical strategies for assessing younger children through narration and wonder Why assessing virtue and character matters as much as academic milestones How to help students learn to assess themselves—a crucial life skill Whether you're navigating Foundations with littles or guiding a Challenge student through their first Blue Book, this conversation offers both encouragement and concrete tools for the journey. Deb and Tim's transparency about their own learning curves reminds us that we're all growing alongside our children. This episode of the Everyday Educator is sponsored by: Judson College Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, equips passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace while experiencing vibrant community through our unique House System. We're committed to making your divine calling affordable through extensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts, so you can give your life for Christ's cause without overwhelming financial burden. Ready to answer your calling? Find out what makes Judson College experience different. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/
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When Homeschooling Feels Overwhelming: Finding Your Way Through
Oct 700:41:06Tap to summarizeFeeling in over your head with homeschooling? You're not alone. Every homeschool parent hits that wall—when the toddler is pulling everything off the shelves, five kids are asking questions at once, and you're wondering if you're failing everyone, including yourself. In this honest and hope-filled conversation, veteran homeschool moms Courtney Bradshaw and Karin Carpenter join host Amy Jones to talk about the seasons when homeschooling feels overwhelming. In this episode, you'll discover: · Why those "in over my head" moments are actually normal (and might even be necessary) · How to recognize when you're spread too thin—and what to do about it · The surprising antidote to homeschool loneliness (hint: it's not just about finding time) · Practical strategies for recalibrating when everything feels like too much · Why celebrating others' victories can sustain you through your own hard days · How to assess whether the problem is your curriculum, your schedule, or your heart Both Courtney (mom of seven, including three adopted from foster care) and Karin (veteran of 15+ years homeschooling four children) share vulnerable stories from their own journeys—the days they wanted to quit, the moments they crashed at Jesus' feet, and the unexpected ways God met them in their weakness. Their wisdom is hard-won and deeply encouraging. This episode of the Everyday Educator is sponsored by: Judson College Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, equips passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace while experiencing vibrant community through our unique House System. We're committed to making your divine calling affordable through extensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts, so you can give your life for Christ's cause without overwhelming financial burden. Ready to answer your calling? Find out what makes Judson College experience different. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/ The Classical Learning Cohort Are you ready to invest in your own education? Would you like to learn alongside others? Check out the Classical Learning Cohort! Learn More! Register for a free online event at www.classicalconversations.com/cohort
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Finding Your Homeschool Groove
Sep 3000:46:56Tap to summarizeEver wonder why some homeschool families seem to have it all figured out while others are still drowning in chaos weeks into the school year? The secret isn't perfect planning—it's finding your groove. Join Lisa Bailey and seasoned homeschool veteran Jennifer Hester for a candid, rapid-fire conversation about what it really takes to get into the homeschool groove. Jennifer brings over a decade of classical education experience as both a parent and tutor, shepherding her own kids from foundations through Challenge levels while pursuing her doctorate. You'll discover the real reason community day leaves everyone exhausted (hint: it's not just you), Jennifer's genius crock-pot lunch hack that will change your community day forever, and why the jump to Challenge levels is harder on parents than students. Jennifer shares her car ride conversation strategy that unlocks deeper connections with your kids and explains how letting go of elaborate lesson plans actually made her a better tutor. The conversation covers which grade transitions hit families the hardest and how to ease the adjustment, along with honest insights about everything from forgotten shoes to flashcard drawers. This isn't your typical "homeschool perfectly" advice. Instead, Jennifer proves that finding your groove isn't about perfection—it's about creating sustainable rhythms that work for your unique family. This episode of the Everyday Educator is sponsored by: Judson College At Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, we equip passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace. Experience vibrant community through our unique House System while receiving comprehensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts to make your divine calling affordable. Ready to answer your calling? Apply to Judson College today and step into God's plan for your life. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/ 2026 Classical Conversations Family Cruise Have you heard? The Classical Conversations 2026 CC Family Cruise will set sail on May 16, 2026. This exciting adventure is open to all CC families and alumni. It will include the National Memory Master Competition, National Commencement, and special CC family activities. Interest is booming with over 800 people interested in cruising with us and cabins are selling out fast! Book your cabin now at www.classicalconversations.com/cruise-2026 Remember, to participate in the CC activities you need to book through the CC group. Grab your sunscreen, your beach bag. and join us on board!
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Beyond Graduation: How Judson College Extends the CC Mission
Sep 2300:58:46Tap to summarizeWhat comes after Classical Conversations? If you've loved the journey of learning alongside your children but wonder where they can continue growing in faith and academics, this conversation is for you. Join Lisa as she explores Judson College with Director of College Life Jake Hatfield and CC graduate Elinor Taylor. Discover how this small North Carolina college creates a seamless bridge from Classical Conversations to higher education through their Great Books program, where students wrestle with Augustine, Dante, and Aquinas in seminar-style discussions. Elinor shares how her CC foundation in memorization, writing, and Socratic dialogue prepared her to thrive in college, while Jake explains their unique house system that builds lifelong community around their mission to "equip students to give their lives for the cause of Christ in the church, among the nations, and in every aspect of society." Whether your student dreams of ministry, missions, or the marketplace, learn how Judson's five C's (calling, confession, curriculum, community, and cost) might be the perfect next chapter for your family's educational adventure. This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by: Judson College At Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, we equip passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace. Experience vibrant community through our unique House System while receiving comprehensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts to make your divine calling affordable. Ready to answer your calling? Apply to Judson College today and step into God's plan for your life. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/
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Homeschool Help: Practical Wisdom for Every Stage
Sep 1600:56:45Tap to summarizeCan you really do Classical Conversations without all the technology? What does homeschooling look like when you're juggling a full-time job? And how do you prepare for a successful CC year without losing your mind over the summer? Join Kelli Wilt and Lisa Bailey in this special Q&A episode of Everyday Educator! Drawing from over two decades of homeschooling experience, Lisa tackles real questions from the CC community about memory work without technology, summer preparation for a successful year, navigating upper-level students, homeschooling as a working parent, and overcoming first-generation homeschooler fears. This candid conversation offers practical wisdom for both new and seasoned classical educators, emphasizing relationship-building, flexibility, and trusting the journey. Whether you're just starting out or transitioning to challenge levels, you'll find encouragement and actionable advice for your classical homeschool adventure. This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by Judson College: At Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, we equip passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace. Experience vibrant community through our unique House System while receiving comprehensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts to make your divine calling affordable. Ready to answer your calling? Apply to Judson College today and step into God's plan for your life. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/
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Building Lead Learners: How Big Families Create Natural Mentorship
Sep 900:55:22Tap to summarizeWhat if the "chaos" of homeschooling multiple children is actually the secret to better learning? Two experienced homeschool moms with 7 and 8 children respectively share their hard-won wisdom on successfully educating large families. Courtney and Sarah break down the myths about homeschooling multiple children and reveal practical strategies for managing different ages, handling the chaos of littles during lessons, and creating a rhythm (not rigid schedule) that works. From filling little cups first thing in the morning to empowering older siblings as learning mentors, they offer concrete solutions for common challenges like toddlers climbing on tables during grammar lessons and juggling individual needs without losing your sanity. Whether you have two kids or ten, you'll discover why doing fewer things well beats trying to recreate separate grade-level classrooms at home, and how the one-room schoolhouse model actually makes learning more natural and effective for everyone. This episode of the Everyday Educator is sponsored by Judson College: Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, equips passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace while experiencing vibrant community through our unique House System. We're committed to making your divine calling affordable through extensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts, so you can give your life for Christ's cause without overwhelming financial burden. Ready to answer your calling? Find out what makes Judson College experience different. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/
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Words of Wisdom for Challenge Students
Sep 200:43:29Tap to summarizeEver wish you could sit down with a homeschool graduate and ask: "What do you wish someone had told you?" Here's that conversation. In this episode, host Lisa Bailey interviews a recent Classical Conversations graduate who completed the entire program. This candid conversation reveals the unvarnished truth about homeschooling's challenges and triumphs from someone who lived it. The discussion covers essential wisdom about procrastination, time management, and learning to take ownership of your education. Listeners hear about the notorious Challenge B year when parent-child relationships are tested, the moment when all the pieces of classical education finally connect, and how tools like anti-charts and logical thinking continue serving graduates in real-world situations. For parents questioning their educational investment and students feeling overwhelmed by Challenge program responsibilities, this conversation provides both encouragement and practical strategies drawn from lived experience navigating the full classical education journey. This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by the Classical Learning Cohort and Judson College: Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, equips passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace while experiencing vibrant community through our unique House System. We're committed to making your divine calling affordable through extensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts, so you can give your life for Christ's cause without overwhelming financial burden. Ready to answer your calling? Find out what makes Judson College experience different. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/ Are you a CC parent or graduate wanting to become a more confident classical educator? Why not sample the CLC by attending a free, online "Experience the CLC" event at classicalconversations.com/cohort. Find a time that fits your schedule.
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From Overwhelmed to Organized: Finding Peace in Your Homeschooling Schedule
Aug 2600:56:55Tap to summarizeFeeling overwhelmed by homeschool chaos? You're not alone—and there's hope! Delise and Lisa chat with experienced homeschool mom Emily Phillip about the reality of creating sustainable rhythms for your homeschool family. Whether you're managing littles or navigating the challenge years, discover practical strategies for building routines that work—from morning flags that anchor your day to teaching teens independence through scheduling. Learn why "anything worth doing is worth doing poorly at first," how to give yourself grace during overwhelming seasons, and why slowing down might be the secret ingredient your family needs. Perfect for moms at every stage of the homeschool journey who want to move from surviving to thriving. Resources: Emily’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@emilythehomeschooler Blessings and Motherhood episode with Emily: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJGep_dcueU This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by: Judson College: Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, equips passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace while experiencing vibrant community through our unique House System. We're committed to making your divine calling affordable through extensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts, so you can give your life for Christ's cause without overwhelming financial burden. Ready to answer your calling? Find out what makes Judson College experience different. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/ CC Plus Concurrent Enrollment: The Concurrent Enrollment Program is a flexible opportunity to earn college credit from an accredited Christian university while honoring homeschool families and program parameters contained in the Challenge Guide. Your student can remain in community while earning college credit for the work they are already doing which means community and mentoring stay in place while practicing the skills of learning through college! Register now or learn more by going to classicalconversationsplus.com/concurrent-enrollment-program.
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