Podcast
Homeschool Better Together
Hosted by Emily Brown · EN
Are you ready for homeschooling to feel joyful again? Do you need support as you learn alongside your kids? Welcome to Homeschool Better Together. Hosted by Laney Homan, this podcast shares how to stop questioning if you are doing enough and create a homeschool experience that fits your family.
In the podcast, we break down the big ideas into manageable chunks to give you the confidence and resources you need to finally step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder. Homeschool stories and practical tips are delivered straight to your earbuds full of inspiration and encouragement. They are perfect to listen to while running errands or folding a load of laundry. No matter what homeschool method you use, you’ll learn how to remove the overwhelm from your homeschool so you can focus on building relationships. To stay connected and learn even more about the Homeschooling Better Together resources, join the free community: https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/join-the-community-2/
26episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Unexpected Benefits of Homeschooling Together
2d ago00:17:02Tap to summarizeEver bribe your kids with snacks just so everyone gets through “group time” without a meltdown? Been there, done that. For a long time, I thought the best way to cut the chaos was to keep my kids separated—both in life and in homeschooling. Spoiler: All that did was up my stress and leave my relationships running on empty.In this episode, I’m getting super honest about how I finally embraced the real meaning behind “homeschool better together.” From my early days of keeping squabbling siblings apart (for my own sanity) to the messy, miraculous shift of bringing everyone to the table, I’m sharing what it actually takes to create a peaceful, connected homeschool—and why it’s absolutely not just about the academics.We’ll talk about the nitty-gritty of navigating sibling drama, the emotional marathon that is homeschooling, and why mom-friends (the ones in the trenches with you) matter just as much as your lesson plans. Plus, I’ll share the “aha” moment that connected the dots between running an ultramarathon and needing community as a homeschool mom.Whether you’re burned out from breaking up arguments, longing for real support, or just want a homeschool that feels less lonely, this episode is for YOU.What you'll learn:Why “homeschooling together” used to terrify me (and what changed)The hidden pitfalls of separating siblings for “peace”How bringing your kids together shapes more than just academics—it builds character and relationshipsThe messy, slow process of learning to guide sibling conflict, not just survive itWhy finding your homeschool “people” (peer or mentor) is vital—and not just a nice-to-haveWhat running an ultramarathon taught me about support, encouragement, and shared strugglePractical encouragement for moms who feel isolated, exhausted, or unsure “together” will ever workYour Next Steps:Join our email list to be the first to hear the details about the Homeschool Better Together Elevate Program (doors opening this summer)! Sign up for the email list here and receive our free planning pages.Feeling stuck and alone? Join our supportive, online community for free!Share this episode with a homeschool mom who needs to know she’s not alone
Transcribe →Why Emily Said Yes
2w ago00:33:07Tap to summarizeIs anyone else feeling that mix of excitement and nerves when big changes come to your favorite corner of homeschool internet? Yep, us too. But today’s episode is about pulling back the curtain (no Pinterest-perfect backdrops here) and inviting you to meet the heart behind Homeschool Better Together’s next chapter.Today I (Laney) sit down with Emily Brown—homeschool mom, longtime superfan, certified life coach, and now, (drumroll, please), the new owner and lead cheerleader for Homeschool Better Together. We dive into her real-life journey from “absolutely-not-ever-homeschooler” to full-circle homeschooling advocate, how she found herself unexpectedly running the show, and what’s staying the same (spoiler: most things, including the curriculum you love) as well as what new encouragement and support is coming your way.If you crave reassurance about the future, or just want to feel seen in the not-so-shiny parts of homeschool life, this conversation is for you. Expect honest stories, a few laugh-out-loud moments about meltdown drop-offs, and the kind of practical wisdom that grows from messy beginnings (and seven kids in eight years—send coffee).What you’ll learn:Emily’s honest story: how she ended up leading the community that resonated with her heart when she found herself in the midst of homeschooling even after she swore "she would never."The #1 reason her family finally committed to homeschooling—and why “togetherness” is still the core of everything at HBT.How burnout, school drop-off tears, and self-doubt actually forged her style and shaped her heart for helping other moms.What’s NOT changing at Homeschool Better Together (curriculum, community, all the laughter, all the Narnia units, and the support you count on).A sneak peek into Elevate: opening to more moms, more often, with the same “moms in the trenches” mentorship you love—plus Emily’s special blend of life coaching know-how.Why Homeschool Better Together will always be run by real homeschoolers, for real homeschoolers—no fake, no pressure, just practical joy.Emily’s vision for building a culture where the number one lesson isn’t “do it right,” but “build the relationships first."Resources & Next Steps:Keep an eye out for new Narnia language arts units, upcoming science plans, plus a curriculum bundle coming soon.While you wait, check out our titles available now!Language Arts Together: The Lion, the Witch, and the WardrobeLanguage Arts Together: The Magician's NephewLanguage Arts Together: The Silver ChairScience Together: Physical Science BundleCurious about Elevate, Bootcamp, curriculum releases, or community news? Make sure you’re on the email list. Sign up here and receive our free planning pages.
Transcribe →How to Stop Killing Creativity in Your Homeschool: A Conversation with the Co-Founder of Night Zookeeper
Apr 2100:48:25Tap to summarizeAre your kids dragging their feet when it comes to writing? You’re far from alone. This week on Homeschool Better Together, Laney Homan sits down with Joshua Davidson—children’s author and co-founder of Night Zookeeper—to unpack why so many kids lose their early love for creativity, and, most importantly, how we can spark that joy (and confidence) again, even for the most reluctant writers.Joshua shares a behind-the-scenes look into how creativity and story play a critical role in confidence building—not just on paper, but in your child’s sense of self. We talk about the science behind why kids start doubting their creative abilities (especially around ages 7–8), the difference between praise-based and skills-based confidence, and why stories can help even literal, “grandpa before their time” thinkers start to unlock imaginative worlds.Laney also gets honest about her goal-oriented, checklist mindset (raise your hand if you’re with me) and how it can unintentionally sap the joy from our homeschool days. There are plenty of practical ideas you can try today—whether your child needs a gentle push into creative writing, a safe space for self-expression, or just permission to invent the next great “kickboxing tiger.” Yes, that’s a thing!Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll learn:Why writing is so dang hard for kids (it’s not just them!)The age when children typically get self-conscious… and what to do about itHow creative expression anchors real confidence—not just loud “look at me” energyThe surprising link between storytelling, play, and long-lasting self-awarenessTips for helping both wildly imaginative and “black-and-white thinker” kids get unstuckNew ways to use character-building (without forcing kids to produce yet another story)How to leverage positive peer feedback—even when you’re homeschooling soloThe difference between praise-based confidence (“Good job!”) and skills-based confidence (the kind that actually lasts)Resources Mentioned:Night Zookeeper programSir Ken Robinson (on creativity)Homeschool Better Together’s Language Arts Together programYour Next Steps:Check out Night Zookeeper for a playful, confident approach to writingTry building writing sessions around character creation—or let kids expand on their favorite movie/book character adventuresEmbrace “imperfect” creative sessions—sometimes that wild made-up word is the best thing your family will rememberReady for more encouragement and practical tools? Join our free homeschool community.For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/stop-killing-creativity
Transcribe →Why Consistency Matters More Than You Think
Apr 700:20:40Tap to summarizeAre you stuck in a cycle of “start strong, fizzle fast” with your homeschool? Are the cries of “I’m behind!” and “Why can’t I stick with anything?!” becoming the theme music of your year? You’re not failing—consistency is just a muscle you haven’t built… yet.In this episode, I open up about my early homeschool years: the chaos, the comparison, and the myth that “the right curriculum” could fix everything. Spoiler: it didn’t. But finding a perfection-proof, real-life approach to showing up—imperfectly!—changed everything for my family (and me). We’re talking trading overwhelm for stability, and self-doubt for steady progress… without rigid schedules, toxic guilt, or soul-sucking lesson plans.If you’re ready to gently but firmly stake your claim on steady routines—with or without a shiny sink—this episode is your permission slip.We also dive into what actually works (hint: it’s not about doing everything, it’s about doing the right things regularly), why “trying again tomorrow” isn’t a sign you’ve failed, and how community + accountability are real game-changers when the going gets tough. Plus, I’ll walk you through my big mindset shift from chasing homeschool “success” to focusing on faithfulness—and how that tiny shift ripples out to everyone in your home.What you’ll learn:How ditching perfection unlocked real consistency in my homeschool (and sanity!)Why curriculum isn’t the answer to homeschool frustrationPractical, baby-step strategies to build routines you can actually keepThe difference between “showing up” and doing “all the things” (and why that matters)How consistency brings security, independence, and fewer battles for your kidsWhy real accountability (not just another checklist) made all the differenceHow to start small and protect your non-negotiables—no matter how messy life isThe surprising connection between faithfulness, community, and homeschool peaceResources mentioned:Homeschool Consistency Bootcamp hosted by Dawn Garrett and Emily Brown: https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/consistencyFlyLady (shine your sink!): https://flylady.net/To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.
Transcribe →Loving Your Limits: A Faith-Based Approach to Planning
Mar 2400:30:46Tap to summarizeIn a season where everything feels important, how do you decide what actually matters?In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, host Laney Homan sits down with Kayse Pratt, creator of Anchored Women, to talk about the power of monthly planning.If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly reacting to life instead of living it with intention, this conversation will help you slow down, refocus, and create a rhythm that actually serves your family—and your faith.Together, Laney and Kayse explore how stepping back once a month can reduce overwhelm, clarify priorities, and help you embrace your God-given limits instead of fighting them.What You’ll LearnWhy monthly planning is more effective than just daily or weekly planningHow to reduce your mental load by seeing the bigger pictureSimple reflection questions to help you evaluate your current seasonWhy you can’t do it all—and why that’s actually a good thingHow to choose a focused priority without neglecting everything elseThe connection between planning, stewardship, and faithA healthier mindset that prevents planning from becoming another source of guiltResources MentionedAnchored Women (planning resources + community)The Steadfast Over Scattered PlannerFree resource: Name Your Season Guide Your Next StepsFeeling inspired? Here are a few simple ways to take action:Set aside 15–60 minutes this week for a monthly planning sessionAsk yourself:What was last month like?What do I (and my family) need right now?Choose:1 habit goal1 project goalPray over your month and ask for clarity in your focusGive yourself permission to let go of what doesn’t fit this season
Transcribe →The Litany of “Not Enough”—and How to Escape It
Mar 1001:01:02Tap to summarizeLet’s be real—homeschooling doesn’t always look like those dreamy, sun-drenched Instagram feeds. Some days it’s more tears, sibling spats, and “Mommmm, I can’t do this!” than cozy read-alouds and family harmony. And spoiler alert: the attitude problem isn’t always just coming from the kids.In today’s episode, Laney Homan sits down with Emily Brown, veteran homeschool mom of seven and life coach for homeschoolers, to talk about the hard (but totally normal) realities of kids’ behavior—and the negative thought spirals parents can get stuck in when things are less than perfect at home. Emily has been through it all, from pulling five kids out of school at once to juggling newborns, teens, and everything in between.We’re getting honest about:Why you’re not alone in feeling totally overwhelmed by challenging behavior,How easy it is to take your kids’ struggles as a personal failure,And why it matters to check your own thought loops, not just your kids’ attitudes.Are you ready for practical help, mindset shifts, and actual hope? Emily brings both wisdom and gentle challenge—plus a concrete script you can use right away to turn around tense moments. This is an episode for anyone who’s questioned whether they’re “enough,” who’s worried they’re failing their kids, or who’s just desperate to stop the meltdown cycle.You are not alone in this (and your emotions are not out of your control!). Let’s break out of the negativity spiral, re-center on what matters, and find more joy in the homeschool journey—even on the messy days.What you’ll learn:Why kids' “bad” behavior isn’t usually personal—or even intentionalHow our negative thought patterns (“the litany of not enough”) fuel family frictionWhy owning your emotional state changes the whole home atmosphereThe ONE script you can use when your child is being disrespectful (and how to model a graceful do-over)Why regular pauses, built-in breaks, and gratitude can short-circuit tensionHow to reframe your role—your worth isn’t on the line, and you aren’t your kids’ savior (thank goodness for that!)How shifting your language from “have to” to “get to” opens space for gratitude, even in the chaosResources Mentioned:Find Emily Brown at Fiat Life Coaching for homeschool moms or listen to her podcast Happy, Holy Mama PodcastThe Grumble-Free Year by Tricia GoyerSibling Relationship Lab by Lynna SutherlandSimply Convivial by Mystie WincklerYour Next Steps:Choose one phrase of truth or gratitude to repeat when you’re in a tough moment.Try Emily’s script: “In case you’re unaware, the way you’re talking to me sounds disrespectful. If that’s not what you meant, please try again and say it how you want me to hear it.”Find a few practical ways to insert a pause (for you AND your kids) during the school day.Schedule a “homeschool audit” to troubleshoot problem spots, then brainstorm one small tweak.Surround yourself with homeschool friends who encourage growth, not just commiseration.
Transcribe →Project-Based Learning: Messy, Magical, and Totally Doable
Feb 2400:41:50Tap to summarizeEver wonder why your kids’ “school projects” either fizzle out or turn into frantic, last-minute glue-sticking marathons? Or maybe you secretly dread “interest-led learning” because you picture glitter explosions and science fair-level chaos? I get it. But what if project-based learning—done right—could actually bring joyful curiosity, deeper learning, and family connection…without sending you to the craft store (or losing your mind)?In this episode, I sit down with my real-life friend and local homeschool teacher, Karla Schlatter. Karla’s a mama of four boys, a champion of lifelong learning, and a pro at weaving meaningful projects into home education. Together, we peel back the curtain on what project-based learning really looks like in our actual, messy homeschool lives.We share what sparked our love for this hands-on approach, how it’s played out with both our self-motivated and less-eager kids, and some hilarious mishaps along the way (never underestimate a determined kid with a cardboard stash or the allure of rabbit poop “science experiments”).We unpack:Why “interest-led” projects are more than just crafts or busywork—and how they differ from those assembly-line curriculum assignmentsHow Karla designed a high school project course that has our teens actually caring about deadlines, peer feedback, and creativity (hello, executive function skills!)The magic (and mild panic) of letting go of control as a homeschool mom—and why that’s where the real learning happensPitfalls we’ve both hit, including perfectionism, decision-paralysis, and that ever-present urge to “just do it my way”How to scaffold and support reluctant or overwhelmed kids so they can actually succeed (and learn from mistakes)What you’ll learn:The two types of project-based learning—and which one sparks more meaningful growthHow to create accountability, positive peer pressure, and genuine motivation (even if your kid is a world-class procrastinator)Strategies for building projects around your child’s true interests—even if those interests seem a bit out-there (rabbit fertilizer, anyone?)Why it’s worth teaching kids to “break big goals into small steps”—and how project learning does just thatWays to start small and make project-based learning a natural part of your family culture, whether you have a group or you’re flying soloResources Mentioned:Land That I Love from Homeschool Better TogetherNavigating High School Course4-H and county fairs for kid-friendly project experiencesColleen Kessler at Raising Lifelong Learners
Transcribe →Formal Co-ops Not Your Thing? Try This Instead
Feb 1000:33:41Tap to summarizeWelcome to a brand new season of Homeschool Better Together—and a new voice behind the mic! I’m your new host, Laney Homan, and today I’m joined by our HBT community manager (and Charlotte Mason wisdom guru), Dawn Garrett, for a conversation that's near and dear to both our hearts: Community-Based Learning.Truth be told, I’ve never been much for formal, lockstep co-ops (raise your hand if you’re allergic to group projects with rigid requirements and committee meetings that last for-e-ver 🖐). Turns out, Dawn couldn’t see herself fitting in those boxes either—so we’re talking about all the ways homeschoolers can build meaningful, creative, low-pressure community learning that’s flexible, affordable, and fits real life.In this episode, we share stories from our own homeschools, compare notes on creative learning groups (spoiler: sometimes all you need are two families, a stack of art supplies, and a desperate desire to keep the paint off the carpet), and break down the biggest benefits of adding some organic connection alongside your at-home days.Dawn spills the beans on what worked for her family—from impromptu art clubs in the living room, to literature-lovin’ library meetups, to Shakespeare performance groups that grew entirely out of “who’s willing to show up and recite lines?” And I share how, for my kids, homeschool community wasn’t always about the academics—it was a lifeline for real friendships, support for mom (can I get an amen?), and finding encouragement from others in the shared messy middle.Curious how to make these grassroots groups work for your family? Wondering if community learning ever counts for high school credit? Need a nudge to just send that text and start something simple? You’re in the right place. Grab your coffee, put the baby in the swing, and let’s get real about what community-based learning can look like for you.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Real-life stories of community learning groups that worked (and why “co-op” doesn’t have to be intimidating)How to kick off a grassroots learning group without losing your freedom (or your mind)Creative models for homeschool community—from art clubs and PE meetups to project fairs and bowling daysThe often-overlooked benefits of community learning—friendships, accountability, positive peer pressure, and mom sanityHow to handle the “I need control” factor (hint: you’re not the only one!)Why your kids don’t need more busywork, and how to keep group learning low-pressureSimple ways to turn community experiences into high school credit (it really does count!)Encouragement for making friends (for your kids and yourself) even if you’re brand new or starting smallHonest thoughts about seasons with (and without) co-ops—and how to know what’s best for right now
Transcribe →Are These Homeschool Voices Stealing Your Joy?
Jan 2700:34:16Tap to summarizeEver feel like you’re drowning in homeschool advice, but your confidence is getting lost in the flood? You’re not alone—and in this episode, I’m joined by our amazing Member Success Manager, Laney Homan, for a real talk chat about filtering all those voices and finally trusting your own judgment.We’ll dish on how the “information overload” of today’s homeschool world is light-years away from the early days of conventions and catalogues. (Spoiler: The algorithm does not know what you actually need.) We get candid about how too many voices can stir up self-doubt—making you second-guess decisions or chase the elusive promise of a homeschool formula that simply doesn’t exist.Want to know who is actually worth listening to? We’ll share how to spot a wise mentor, why good community matters (but isn’t everything), and how to sidestep the guilt bombs and prescriptive “this is the only way” messaging that can wreck your confidence.Plus: A big announcement! Laney’s taking over as host for the next season of the podcast, and I couldn’t be more excited for the new combos and encouragement she’ll bring to your earbuds.What you’ll learn:Why today’s homeschoolers are swimming in input—and how it’s different from the “good ol’ days.”Why information overload can actually sabotage your confidence (and what to do instead)How to filter curriculum promises, “expert” advice, and the allure of homeschooling quick fixesWhat makes a good homeschool mentor—and giant red flags to dodgeHow to find real encouragement and honest support (without sliding into a homeschool pity party)The three levels of community…and why local support still mattersWays to avoid the shame/should/“if you don’t, you’ll fail” trapPam’s biggest soapbox about absolutes and humility in homeschool leadershipWhy Laney will be your new host for the next season (and why that’s downright awesome!)Resources mentioned:Join our free Homeschool Better Together Community
Transcribe →Christmas School for the Soul
Nov 1800:12:56Tap to summarizeAre you overwhelmed by the pressure to create Pinterest-perfect holiday memories in your homeschool? (Spoiler: so was I, and I’ve got some epic fails to share as proof!) If you’re feeling weighed down by Christmas school plans, elaborate crafts, and a to-do list longer than Santa’s, this episode is your permission slip to do less and experience more peace.This week, I’m sharing why “Christmas School for the Soul” is a better plan than another jam-packed checklist. We’re reframing holiday homeschooling: less pressure, more joy. I’ll tell you about my own holiday mishaps (candy kiss countdown disaster, anyone?), what I’ve learned about letting go of perfection, and exactly how a simple morning time routine can offer both you and your kids the holiday anchor you actually need.Let’s trade “doing more” for making meaning and let beauty do the heavy lifting. Whether you’re on top of things or not, this is your invitation to step off the treadmill and just be together. (Bonus: Don’t miss your FREE Advent Morning Time plans, made for your heart, not your checklist.)What you’ll learn:Why you might need Advent Morning Time as much as your kids doHow “Christmas School for the Soul” can be your stress antidoteThe danger of the holiday homeschool perfection trap (plus, my own hilarious fails)Three steps to a simpler, soul-filling holiday homeschoolWhy choosing a single “anchor” tradition is enoughHow to replace “more” with “meaningful” (and cut the guilt)How music, art, and poetry can do the hard work for you (so you don’t have to!)The real reason behind doing school during the holidays—and how to reclaim peaceMentioned resources:FREE Advent Morning Time PlansJoin our free homeschool community
Transcribe →