Homeschool Minnesota

In this episode, Elizabeth Santelmann shares her journey with biblical literacy, the importance of spiritual disciplines, and how her Bible study 'Gently Tended' helps women deepen their faith one verse at a time. Discover practical tips for integrating spiritual practices into busy lives and nurturing a closer relationship with God. Links: To find out more from Elizabeth and to buy her book, Gently Tended: https://sunshineinmynest.com/ To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Elizabeth Sentleman's Bible Study 01:57 The Power of Making Bible Study Beautiful 04:03 Overcoming Guilt and Defeat in Bible Reading 06:00 The Practice of One Verse at a Time 08:03 Passing Faith Through Small Moments 10:49 Integrating Spiritual Disciplines into Homeschooling 13:01 Practicing the Presence of God Daily 14:46 Flexibility and Grace in Bible Study 17:10 Encouragement for Busy Moms 18:49 The Role of Grace in Spiritual Growth 20:45 Practical Tips for Using the Bible Study

In this episode, Mark Folk shares the story behind his devotional Soul Weathered, designed to help men deepen their faith through simple, reflective practices. We explore how wilderness seasons shape spiritual growth, the importance of daily practice, and living a full life rooted in trust and obedience. Links: To purchase Soul Weathered: https://www.markfolkauthor.com/ To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Soul Weathered and its Purpose 02:07 Mark Folk's Personal Journey and Inspiration 04:02 Design and Format of the Devotional 06:57 The Concept of Wilderness in Faith 12:11 Personal Story of Suffering and Trust 19:52 Living in the Wilderness Season 28:08 Obedience Versus Comfort in Faith 33:49 Living a Full Life Rooted in Trust 36:47 Closing Remarks and Practical Applications

In this episode, Audra Haney shares her journey through waiting on God's timing, the inspiration behind her children's book 'Waiting on a Good Good God,' and practical ways parents can teach children to wait well and trust God's plan. Links: To purchase Audra's other book, He Is There: https://www.audrahaney.com/new-book To purchase Waiting on a Good Good God: https://www.tyndale.com/p/waiting-on-a-good-good-god/9781496491077 To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Audra Haney and her book 02:12 The personal journey of waiting and God's timing 03:53 Challenges faced during family transitions in 2020 07:09 Biblical examples of waiting and faith 10:00 How waiting shapes character and trust 13:02 Teaching children to trust and wait on God 16:53 Using creation to teach God's character 19:49 The importance of patience in parenting and discipleship 22:57 The message and lessons of 'Waiting on a Good Good God' 26:08 Encouragement to wait well and trust God's plan

In this episode, Grace Fox discusses the significance of understanding the names of God to deepen our relationship with Him to become a strong homeschool parent. She shares insights from her Bible study series, personal stories, and practical tips for cultivating friendship with God. Links: To purchase The Names of God: Growing Strong: https://www.gracefox.com/shop/ To find more great books from Tyndale Publishers: https://www.tyndale.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqx8WvOYxJcg6wxVNzBzyrJtfIrKfOdoh9MYJOBCCjdnBFkGtIt To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the series on Names of God 01:50 The importance of knowing God's names for spiritual growth 04:01 How Jesus fulfills the names of God in scripture 06:04 Personal stories of experiencing God through His names 08:03 Developing a relationship with God through daily habits 10:08 Understanding the name Yahweh Mackay and its significance 12:13 God's discipline as an expression of His love 14:01 The story of Grace Fox's mother and the power of forgiveness 15:58 Trusting God in life's challenges and calling 17:55 The connection between belief and action in faith 20:03 Living out faith in practical ways, like moving onto a boat 22:05 The importance of knowing God's character for trust and obedience 24:02 Responding to God's call with faith and obedience 26:00 The ongoing revelation of God's character and nature 27:58 Encouragement to deepen your relationship with God

In this episode, Crystal Bowman shares her journey of co-authoring children's books with her daughter, the process of writing biblically accurate and engaging children's literature, and the inspiration behind her latest book, C is for Creation. Discover how these stories can be a powerful tool for discipleship and family bonding. Links: To find out more about Crystal Bowman: https://crystalbowman.com/ To order Crystal's books, including pre-order of C is for Creation: https://www.tyndale.com/p/c-is-for-creation/9798400510441 To contact Homeschool Minnestoa--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Crystal Bowman's Work and New Book 01:56 Writing with Her Daughter and Co-Authoring Journey 03:56 The Process of Creating Children's Literature 08:03 The Importance of Understanding Children's Worldview 12:08 Inspiration Behind C is for Creation 16:04 Biblical Accuracy and Storytelling in Children's Books 20:07 The Creation Story in the Alphabet Book 22:00 Balancing Fun and Faith in Illustrations 24:03 Series Development and Future Books 27:46 Discipleship and the Role of Stories in Faith Formation

In this episode, Christy Faith shares insights on choosing the right homeschool co-op, understanding different educational philosophies, and building a supportive homeschooling community. Perfect for homeschooling parents seeking practical advice and encouragement. Links: To find Christy-Faith's Thrive community: https://christy-faith.com/thrive To Find Christy-Faith's podcast: https://christy-faith.com/podcast/ To find out your homeschooling style! https://christy-faith.com/5-minute-homeschool-style-finder To purchase Homeschool Rising by Christy-Faith: https://christy-faith.com/book-homeschool-rising To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Christy Faith and her community 02:02 Christy Faith's homeschooling journey and resources 04:22 What is a homeschool co-op and why consider joining 09:15 Questions to ask before joining a co-op 15:37 Understanding co-op organization and financial structure 22:41 Parent involvement and expectations in co-ops 27:29 Red flags and warning signs in co-op communities 35:31 Encouragement for overwhelmed homeschooling parents

This episode features Dayle Annand talking with Ginger Hubbard about how parents can address children’s speech issues like whining, lying, tattling, and disrespect by focusing on the heart, not just behavior. Ginger shares a practical three-step approach: ask heart-probing questions, show kids what to put off, and teach them what to put on through biblical self-control and obedience. Links: To find out more about Ginger Hubbard and to buy her books: https://www.gingerhubbard.com/ To listen to Parenting with Ginger Hubbard podcast: https://www.gingerhubbard.com/podcast To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges 01:52 Ginger Hubbard's Background and Mission 03:59 Focus on Heart Issues in Children 05:59 The Three-Step Discipline Plan 09:58 Practical Application for Whining 15:02 Public Discipline and Consistency 19:59 Societal Impact of Parenting Styles 25:03 Biblical Foundations for Discipline 29:50 The Role of Heart Transformation 33:07 Closing Remarks and Resources

This episode features Dr. Brian Ray and Dr. Douglas Pietersma from the National Home Education Research Institute discussing recent research on homeschooling, its outcomes, and societal implications. Discover how homeschooling compares to public and private schooling and why it continues to grow in popularity. Links: To find out more about NHERI: https://nheri.org/ To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Homeschooling Research and Key Findings 01:22 Overview of NEIR and Its Role in Education Research 03:55 Significance of the Recent Homeschooling Studies 05:00 Details of the Nationwide Homeschooling Study 06:28 Historical Context and Growth of Homeschooling in America 08:23 Factors Driving the Growth of Homeschooling 10:20 Systemic Benefits of Homeschooling for Children 12:18 Diverse Demographics and Inclusivity in Homeschooling 14:08 Research Methodology and Bias Control in Studies 19:32 Academic Achievement Results and Interpretation 23:07 Homeschooling Compared to Private and Public Schools 28:13 Early Childhood Education and Homeschooling Outcomes 35:42 Socioeconomic and Racial Patterns in Homeschooling 41:56 Future Trends and Policy Implications 45:43 The Role of Tax Dollars and Government Funding 48:39 Why Families Choose Homeschooling Today 52:25 Changing Motivations for Homeschooling Over Time 55:14 Biblical and Philosophical Foundations of Homeschooling 58:03 Impact of COVID-19 on Homeschooling Trends 01:00:20 Resources and How to Access NEIR Data 01:04:34 Supporting Homeschooling Through Research and Donations

Jamie Erickson and Dayle Annand walk through the major homeschooling methods, how they differ, and why the best choice is often a flexible mix rather than a rigid label. They also talk honestly about the early years of homeschooling, what makes curriculum feel overwhelming, and how moms can choose with confidence instead of chasing perfection. In this episode, Jamie Erickson shares a clear spectrum of homeschool styles from traditional textbook learning to unschooling, while Dayle Annand adds practical examples from her own homeschooling journey. Together, they focus on what actually helps families stay consistent, joyful, and realistic. Jamie emphasizes that moms do not need the perfect curriculum, only one that is good enough to begin with and flexible enough to adjust. Dayle and Jamie both stress that homeschooling can include stopping, slowing down, speeding up, or taking a break when the family needs it. Links: To purchase Jamie's books: Homeschool Bravely: https://a.co/d/02WInHuh Overwhelmed Mom: https://a.co/d/0jdKZdT8 Holy Hygge: https://a.co/d/00RAfE7Z To find Cathy Duffy's book: https://a.co/d/0hvKoOc8 To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Timestamps: 0:00 - Charlotte Mason basics: living books, narration, copywork, and short lessons 1:24 - What a unit study looks like and how it connects subjects 2:21 - Montessori learning as exploration, play, and real life materials 3:46 - Unschooling as strewed learning and curiosity led discovery 5:13 - Why Jamie sees limits in unschooling as a core philosophy 6:07 - Dayle’s example of following a child’s interest into an herbal science fair project 8:09 - How adults naturally learn in an unschooling style sometimes 9:36 - Encouragement for moms who feel unsure and want to do the right thing 10:46 - A helpful book for evaluating homeschool methods and curriculum 11:27 - Matching teacher style, child style, and curriculum strengths 12:22 - Why faithfulness matters more than finding a perfect curriculum 13:21 - The parent is in charge, not the curriculum 14:46 - Permission to slow down, speed up, or take a break 16:16 - Jamie’s upcoming book about helping siblings genuinely like each other

In this episode of Homeschool Minnesota, Dayle Annand speaks with Craig Harrison about his experience as a homeschool dad and primary teacher for his two sons. Craig shares how he came to view parents as a child’s best teachers, the challenges he faced stepping into homeschooling, and the mindset shift that helped him see caring for his family as part of his calling. He also discusses the thinking behind his book, Your Child’s Best Teacher, and why he believes homeschooling is valuable not only for families, but for faith, character, and society as a whole. The conversation offers encouragement for parents who wonder whether they are qualified to homeschool, especially when life feels busy or complicated. Craig emphasizes that homeschooling is less about having all the answers and more about loving your children, teaching them how to learn, and creating a safe, godly environment where they can grow in both knowledge and character. It’s a hopeful, practical episode for any parent considering or currently walking the homeschool journey. Links: To purchase Craig's book, Your Child's Best Teacher: https://a.co/d/05ocjT0X To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 - Introducing Craig Harrison and why his homeschool-dad perspective matters 02:10 - Do moms and dads teach differently in homeschooling? 03:50 - Why homeschooling felt hard for an engineer to step into 05:35 - Rethinking “provide” as care, not just income 07:05 - Why Ephesians speaks specifically to fathers 08:43 - The pressure of both parents working and still trying to homeschool 09:17 - Other dads facing the same doubts and tensions 11:15 - Why some mothers also feel conflicted about staying home 12:28 - Why Craig wrote Your Child’s Best Teacher 14:55 - Building a defense of home education from the start 16:32 - Why statistics strengthen the case for homeschooling 18:08 - The cultural influence of a growing homeschool population 19:06 - A homeschool gathering that showed the character of the next generation 21:14 - What to say to parents who feel unqualified to homeschool 22:16 - Yes, you can do it, even through high school 24:12 - Why children remember how you make them feel 26:19 - Teaching kids who they are and how to learn 27:12 - The “dragons” dads fight and why sacrifice matters 28:37 - Closing encouragement and future conversations with Craig

In this episode, Annette Vaughn shares her journey into homeschooling, discusses her inspiring book 'Dear Homeschool Mom,' and highlights the importance of community, faith, and resourcefulness in the homeschooling journey. Links: To purchase Dear Homeschool Mom: https://www.dearhomeschoolmombook.com/ To find out more about HSLDA's Compassion Grant: https://hslda.org/explore/grants-for-homeschooling To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Homeschooling and Community 02:54 The Book: Dear Homeschool Mom 05:47 Curating Letters from Homeschool Moms 08:48 Cohesiveness in Diverse Experiences 12:02 Challenging Topics in Homeschooling 15:00 Navigating Unique Circumstances 17:55 Qualifications for Homeschooling 21:04 The Power of Vulnerability 24:04 Giving Back: HSLDA Compassion Grant 27:03 Encouragement for Homeschool Moms

In this episode, we explore conflict resolution in marriage, emphasizing the importance of healthy communication, understanding, and reconciliation rooted in biblical principles. Melanie Zepelak shares practical tools and spiritual insights to help couples navigate conflicts and strengthen their relationships. For Sanctuary of Home: https://www.sanctuaryofhome.com/blog.html To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Conflict Resolution in Marriage 04:42 Understanding Conflict as a Normal Part of Relationships 09:04 Avoiding Negative Conflict Tactics 14:07 The Role of Jesus in Conflict Resolution 16:56 Ground Rules for Healthy Conflict Resolution 22:56 Establishing Ground Rules for Healthy Communication 24:53 The Importance of Reconciliation in Relationships 26:52 Navigating Conflict with Humility and Love 28:52 Effective Conflict Resolution Strategies 35:48 The Role of Accountability and Support 40:40 Understanding the Spiritual Aspect of Conflict 44:47 The Journey Towards Stronger Marriages

In this episode, Kevin Swanson discusses the importance of integrating a biblical worldview into homeschooling curriculum for children, emphasizing the need for foundational faith-based education from a young age. We explore how worldview shapes understanding of history, science, and ethics, and the urgent need to disciple the next generation in truth. Links: To find Generations homeschool curriculum: https://store.generations.org/?srsltid=AfmBOop-zGr5j8IlS6tTh4erfX8fKg2VAbNKqZqRUCW0yJnYcZJqG7-O To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Worldview in Education 02:54 The Importance of a Biblical Worldview 10:40 Curriculum Development and Topics Covered 16:59 The Urgency of Discipling Children 18:26 The Importance of Learning Together 19:08 The Decline of Biblical Worldview in Education 21:28 The Role of Parents in Education 22:47 Building a Strong Foundation in Education 24:43 God's Investment in Our Children 26:53 Integrating Scripture into Education 28:57 Upcoming Curriculum Developments 32:20 Applying a Biblical Worldview in Politics

In this episode, hosts Dayle Annand and Mellany Zepelak explore the vital role of positive communication in marriage, emphasizing prayer, blessing, listening, and vulnerability as foundational tools for strengthening relationships. Links: For Sanctuary of Home: https://www.sanctuaryofhome.com/blog.html To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Communication in Marriage 02:59 Recap of Previous Episodes 05:51 The Indispensable Habit of Positive Communication 09:03 Foundational Practices for Positive Communication 11:54 Blessing Each Other as a Communication Tool 14:59 The Importance of Listening in Communication 23:21 The Art of Listening 27:20 Conflict Resolution and Communication Levels 37:53 Encouragement and Moving Forward

In this episode, William Federer shares insights from his extensive work on American history, focusing on the role of faith, prayer, and divine intervention in shaping the nation. He discusses key historical stories, the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage, and how to uphold these values today. To find American Minute: https://americanminute.com/ To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Celebrating America's History and Heritage 02:46 The Role of Religion in America's Founding 05:56 Understanding the Founding Fathers' Intentions 08:57 Misunderstandings of Separation of Church and State 11:47 Miracles in American History 16:52 The Power of Prayer in American History 27:38 Encouragement for Future Generations

In this episode, we explore biblical principles for strengthening marriage, focusing on self-change, prayer, blessing, and intentional communication. Perfect for couples seeking to build a Christ-centered relationship. Links: For Sanctuary of Home Blog: https://www.sanctuaryofhome.com/blog.html For a seminar on Homeschooling Made Simple: https://homeschoolmadesimple.net/store/Seminar-4-The-Blessing-p126167825 To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Marriage Series 01:09 Foundational Insights on Marriage 02:51 The Role of Personal Responsibility in Marriage 05:17 Tools for Effective Communication 10:14 Staying in Your Hula Hoop 17:15 The Power of Self-Change and Prayer 22:15 The Power of Intentional Prayer for Spouses 24:40 Seeking Change Through Prayer 26:51 The Role of Accountability in Marriage 30:19 Focusing on the Good: Speaking Blessings 37:35 Practicing the Language of Blessing

In this episode, Dr. Katheryn Saunders discusses her new book 'Having Spiritual Conversations with Your Kids,' exploring practical ways to deepen faith and build healthy family rhythms through ancient Benedictine practices adapted for modern families. Links: To order Having Spiritual Conversations with Your Kids: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/products/9780800747589_having-spiritual-conversations-with-your-kids To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Christian Community in Homeschooling 01:21 Dr. Katherine Saunders: Author and Background 02:31 The Journey of Writing the Book 05:59 Benedictine Practices for Modern Families 14:16 Engaging Generations: Conversations and Faith Formation 21:24 Apprenticing Children to Jesus vs. Parents 22:17 Reflecting on Parenting and Faith 23:56 The Role of Grandparents in Family Life 25:39 Navigating Social Media and Family Expectations 27:24 Shifting from Idealism to Reality in Parenting 30:17 Curiosity Over Control in Parenting 32:05 Intentional Power Sharing with Children 36:27 Incorporating Humility into Family Dynamics

In this episode, Dayle Annand and Mellany Zepelak share biblical insights on how to fight fair in marriage by understanding the spiritual battle and focusing on teamwork and forgiveness. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the enemy and fighting for each other, not against each other. Links: To find Sanctuary of Home Blog: https://www.sanctuaryofhome.com/blog.html To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marriage Series 01:24 The Importance of Marriage 04:09 Understanding the Battle for Marriage 08:22 Recognizing the True Enemy 11:21 Choosing Your Team 15:19 Fighting Together Against Adversity 17:49 The Role of Forgiveness in Marriage 22:30 Practical Steps to Strengthen Your Marriage 25:52 Conclusion and Next Steps

This episode features a heartfelt discussion on the biblical view of marriage, its significance as an image of Christ and the church, and practical ways to strengthen and protect your marriage through faith, commitment, and perseverance. Links: To find Mellany's marriage blog on Sanctuary of Home: https://www.sanctuaryofhome.com/blog.html For a great book for kids on marriage: https://www.christianbook.com/always-childs-first-book-about-marriage/jani-ortlund/9781527100305/pd/7100305?event=ESRCP%7CPSEN&ps_exit=PRODUCT%7Clegacy&search_term=a%20child%27s%20first%20book%20about&Ntt=7100305&product_redirect=1 To find the self-care series on our YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-a8ds2T4hAg-Ly7aTq9Zfzq5XptQjLHN&si=_wAy_d3MNtpjHmVA To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:25 Series on Self-Care and Marriage Focus 01:22 Reinvesting in Marriage for Children’s Benefit 02:21 Marriage Not About Perfection, But Fighting Well 03:18 Disclaimer: Not Marriage Counselors 05:08 Origin of Our View of Marriage 06:00 Marriage in Culture and Media 07:31 God as the Creator of Marriage 08:27 Marriage as a Reflection of Christ and the Church 09:50 Marriage Is Not Just About Happiness 09:56 God’s Design and Purpose for Marriage 11:08 Marriage as a Reflection of God's Relationship with His People 11:59 Marriage Reflects the Relationship of the Lord and His Church 14:09 Marriage as a Glorious Image of Christ and the Church 15:17 Marriage as a Reflection of God's Love and Unity 16:43 Marriage as a Reflection of God's Love in Action 17:02 Protecting Marriage: The Storms and Challenges 18:37 The Anchor of Faith in Marriage 19:19 Emotions vs. Commitment in Marriage 20:18 The Power of Covenant and Vows 28:04 The Weight of Marriage Vows 29:01 Giving vs. Receiving in Marriage 29:52 The Work of Marriage and Its Blessings 30:50 Marriage as a Light to the World 32:15 Generational Impact of Persevering in Marriage 33:20 When Storms Come: Separation and Reconciliation 34:44 God’s Authority in Marriage Separation 35:55 God’s Best: Reconciliation and Healing 36:52 Big Picture of Marriage and Its Reflection of Christ 39:35 Walking Through Trials and Fire with Faith 41:36 The Importance of Community and Support in Marriage 42:59 The Call to Remain Committed and Fight for Marriage 44:06 Surrounding Yourself with Godly Support 45:05 God’s Unrelenting Pursuit and Love in Marriage 46:00 Praying for Marriages and God’s Protection 47:30 Moving Forward: Reorienting Your View of Marriage 48:16 Encouragement to Stay Committed and Fight for Marriage

This podcast features Stacy Montgomery from Simply Charlotte Mason discussing the Charlotte Mason homeschooling method, its principles, history, and how it can be tailored to fit your family. Learn how this approach nurtures lifelong learners and develops good character through living ideas and natural relationships. Links: For the Simply Charlotte Mason website: https://simplycharlottemason.com/ For podcasts relating to learning styles and an overview of the Charlotte Mason method: https://simplycharlottemason.com/five-homeschooling-styles/ https://simplycharlottemason.com/planning/curriculum-guide/overview-chart/ To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Homeschooling Journey 02:25 Discovering Charlotte Mason's Philosophy 05:34 Living Education: The Heart of Charlotte Mason 07:51 Charlotte Mason: A Revolutionary Educator 11:00 Resurgence of Charlotte Mason's Methods 14:22 Character Building Through Education 17:44 Simply Charlotte Mason: Curriculum Overview 18:37 Introduction to Charlotte Mason's Philosophy 19:04 The Importance of Living Books 22:02 Curriculum Structure and Support 24:17 Natural Learning and Good Habits 25:23 Understanding Living Books vs. Textbooks 30:11 Exploring Different Homeschooling Styles 37:30 The Freedom of Homeschooling Choices