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EPISODE 202 | What happens when AI makes your child’s writing sound more polished—and less like them? In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, we explore that question through a rushed cover letter, a college student eager to impress his favorite professor, and a young writer who used AI without even knowing it. Each story reveals a different reason kids reach for these tools, from looming deadlines to uncertainty about their writing skills. Join us for a practical conversation about what to ask before reacting, how to recognize the help your child needs, and why nurturing their own voice matters as much as improving their sentences. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Veldorah J. Rice is the owner and director of Write from the Heart. Her background includes three bachelor’s degrees and a dual master’s degree in English and Film Studies. Veldorah has spent her career designing rigorous, student-centered instruction. Her curriculum centers on developing critical thinkers through collaborative learning that meets students where they are. In her free time, she enjoys reading, knitting, and analyzing movies. She is proud to say that she has watched every film that has ever won an Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director, and Animated Feature. You can find out more here;  ⁠https://writefromtheheart.org/aiworkshop Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. or at. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 201 PART 1: Artificial intelligence has changed the way we find information. What once required a simple Google search can now produce an instant, personalized answer—but how do we know whether that answer is accurate, unbiased, or appropriate for our children? In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, we’re exploring how to help students navigate AI thoughtfully and responsibly within their homeschool education. We’ll discuss how parents can understand these rapidly changing tools, establish practical safeguards, and teach children to question, verify, and evaluate the information AI provides. The goal isn’t simply to help students use AI effectively. It’s to prepare them to move confidently through an AI-driven world without losing the ability to think critically, solve problems independently, retain what they learn, or remain grounded in the principles their families value.AI will continue to shape how our children learn, work, and communicate. Let’s talk about how we can prepare them to use it as a tool—without allowing it to do their thinking for them. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Veldorah J. Rice is the owner and director of Write from the Heart. Her background includes three bachelor’s degrees and a dual master’s degree in English and Film Studies. Veldorah has spent her career designing rigorous, student-centered instruction. Her curriculum centers on developing critical thinkers through collaborative learning that meets students where they are. In her free time, she enjoys reading, knitting, and analyzing movies. She is proud to say that she has watched every film that has ever won an Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director, and Animated Feature. You can find out more here; https://writefromtheheart.org/aiworkshop Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 200 | Welcome to a very special episode of Homeschool Your Way—our 200th! To celebrate, we’re bringing together the voices of homeschool parents from many different seasons of the journey. You’ll hear from veteran parents, families with one or two children, parents teaching a houseful, and those who once wondered, “Can I really do this?” Their paths to homeschooling—and to BookShark—may look different. Some discovered it through a trusted mentor or homeschool convention. Others found it during an uncertain season or after spending an entire summer trying to build their own literature-based curriculum. But they share something powerful: a love of learning, a belief in the power of great books, and the freedom to homeschool in a way that fits their family. Whether you’re opening your first big box of books, celebrating a graduate, or still finding your rhythm, we hope these stories encourage you, remind you that you’re not alone, and spark fresh joy for the journey ahead. Before we begin, thank you for listening—and for allowing Homeschool Your Way to be part of your homeschool story. Two hundred episodes wouldn’t be possible without you. Now, let’s celebrate! Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 199 | 10+12=22, right? When math becomes a daily source of frustration, it can be hard to know what your child needs—or what to try next. In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, dyscalculia tutor Jan Schulte explains why some children need a different path to understanding math and how the right support can help concepts begin to click. Jan shares insight into why a student may understand a skill one day and struggle with it the next, along with practical ways parents can build confidence, reduce frustration, and support children who think differently. This encouraging conversation reminds parents that struggling with math does not mean a child is less capable. Sometimes, they simply need the material presented in a way that works with how their brain learns. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Jan Schulte has a B.S. in Oceanography from the United States Naval Academy and an MPA from the University of West Florida. She spent ten years on active duty in the U.S. Navy as a pilot and instructor pilot before becoming a mom 24 years ago and homeschooling her two daughters through high school. As a homeschooling parent, Jan confronted several learning disabilities in her home, including her daughter's dyscalculia diagnosis. Despite their efforts, math remained an uphill battle marked by frustration. While her daughter persevered and succeeded, Jan knew there had to be a better way to support dyscalculic learners from the start. After her children graduated from their homeschool, Jan pursued certification as a Dyscalculia Tutor through Dyscalculia Services and received additional training in Orton-Gillingham Multisensory Math from OG Academic Math and Education. Her experience gave her profound empathy for children struggling with dyscalculia and for parents trying everything they can to help their children. Today, as founder of Exponential Potential Dyscalculia Tutoring, Jan leads a growing team of tutors who meet students where they are, patiently identifying their stumbling blocks and strengths while blending multi-sensory lessons with engaging activities. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing formerly math-avoidant kids excited to learn. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 198 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way, where the podcast explores the many ways families can build a homeschool life that truly works for them. In this episode, host Janna Koch is joined by Jean Lee, founder of Academy of Chaos, for a conversation about something many homeschooling parents deeply want but do not always know how to create: community. Jean brings a unique perspective to this discussion as a neuroscientist, homeschooler, and community builder. Together, Janna and Jean talk about what it looks like to find your people while homeschooling and how building friendships and meaningful community as adults can become such an important part of the journey. While so much attention is often given to helping children form connections, this conversation highlights the reality that parents need support, friendship, and belonging, too. This is a thoughtful and encouraging episode about stepping out, creating the kind of community you want to be part of, and recognizing that homeschool life was never meant to be lived in isolation. Jean shares insight, experience, and encouragement for parents who are hoping to build deeper relationships, meaningful friendships, and a stronger sense of connection along the way. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Jean is a visionary leader, blending her knowledge as a neuroscientist, experience as a global marketing strategist, and strength as a serial entrepreneur to drive innovation. Her insight stems from firsthand experience as an educator leading project-based, team-oriented learning with a heavy focus on executive function development. Driven by her profound journey to motherhood, Jean’s work supports women, connects families, and prioritizes learning. She is a mother fully engaged, deeply connected to her daughters, and dedicated to helping others. Experience parenting neurodivergent children allows her to assist struggling families that are seeking information about alternative education methods and strategies. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 197 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way, where the podcast celebrates the many ways families can create a rich, meaningful education that fits their unique children. In this episode, host Janna Koch welcomes Leslie Martino for a conversation about interest-based learning and the beauty of building an education that is deeply rooted in connection. Leslie brings a wealth of wisdom and experience to thediscussion. She is the author of Joy of Slow, and her work hasencouraged so many parents to step back from the pressure, slow down, and truly see the individual needs of their children. Her perspective is a refreshing reminder that learning does not have to be rushed to be valuable, and that there is so much beauty to be found in honoring who children are and how they naturally grow. Together, Janna and Leslie explore what it means to embraceinterest-based learning in a way that is connection-rich, thoughtful, and deeply personal. Leslie shares from both experience and conviction, offering encouragement for parents who want to move at a gentler pace, trust the process, and cultivate an atmosphere where curiosity, relationship, and individual growth can flourish. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Leslie M. Martino has over twenty years of experience teaching; as an elementary school teacher, a home educator, and an adjunct lecturer for graduate courses focused on the role of the teacher in supporting children’s individual work preferences. She homeschools her four children and works as an educational consultant, writing curricula, training teachers, and coaching parents to approach learning in an interest-based and child-directed way. She is a speaker on topics of education and motherhood and is also a contributing writer for the Wild + Free homeschooling community. Leslie enjoys teaching Pilates and collecting nature treasures (though not at the same time). She lives in sunny Florida with her husband and children. You can find her online at LeslieMartino.com and on IG @LeslieMMartino. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 196 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way, where the podcast explores all the different ways families can create an education that truly fits their kids. In this episode, host Janna Koch is joined by Matt Bowen, co-author of OpEd, for a conversation about open education, his background as a public-school teacher, and the journey that led his own family to explore new possibilities for their children. Matt brings a particularly interesting perspective because he has seen education from more than one side. He spent years in the public-school world, but once he became a parent, the questions surrounding learning and schooling became much more personal. Like so many families, Matt and his family began thinking more deeply about what would truly work best for their children, rather than simply following what was expected or conventional. Together, Janna and Matt discuss that transition, how hisperspective shifted from teacher to parent, and how his family began exploring different educational avenues in search of the right fit. It is a thoughtful and encouraging conversation about staying open, following children’s needs, and giving families permission to think beyond the traditional path. ABOUT OUR GUEST | For over 30 years, Matt Bowman has been reimagining education for the digital age. As a former sixth-grade teacher turned tech executive and education entrepreneur, Matt saw firsthand how the traditional education system often fails to meet the unique needs of individual learners. Together with his wife Amy, Matt founded OpenEd (formerly My Tech High), which has served more than 100,000 student enrollments across multiple states, including many military families worldwide. Their approach focuses on blending personalized learning with technology and entrepreneurship skills, giving students the flexibility to learn in ways that work best for them. Matt holds multiple degrees in education and is an alumnus of Stanford's Executive Business Management program. He lives in the mountains of Utah, where he and Amy enjoy spending time with their five married children and four grandchildren (and counting!) Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 195 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way — the podcast that encourages you to build a homeschool rhythm that works for your family, not someone else's highlight reel. This episode? It's all about the money, honey. 💰 Janna sits down with Cassie Ogluin — homeschool mom of three, Outschool event coordinator, and alternative education superfan — for an honest, energizing conversation about one of the most overlooked perks in the homeschool world: state funding. Because yes, your state might actually help pay for your child's education — and most families have no idea. From ESAs and micro-grants to charter schools and virtual fund accounts, Janna and Cassie break it all down in a way that actually makes sense. They share their own journeys into alternative education (spoiler: neither of them planned it this way), talk through what oversight really means for families, and give you real, practical steps to figure out what's available where you live. Whether you're brand new to homeschooling or years in and just now hearing about this, this episode will leave you informed, encouraged, and ready to dig into what your state has to offer. In this episode:💸 What ESAs, micro-grants & public funding programs actually are 🏦 How the virtual funding accounts work — and what you can spend them on 📋 Why oversight might actually be your best friend as a new homeschooler 📍 How to research your state's specific programs (even when they're not called ESAs) 🚀 Why homeschooling is growing faster than ever — and what that means for your family You don't have to do this alone — and you don't have to do it broke. Tune in and find out what might already be waiting for you. 🎧(Friendly note: we’re sharing education info, not legal or financial advice—always confirm details on your state’s official program site.) ABOUT OUR GUEST | Cassie, a homeschool mom of three for over a decade, tailors her approach to meet the needs of her neurodiverse learner. She is the Alternative Education Content and Events Manager at Outschool, championing innovative education solutions for families and educators. https://affiliate.bookshark.com/idevaffiliate.php?id=105&url=111 Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 194 | Welcome back to Homeschool Your Way,the podcast that encourages you to build a homeschool rhythm that works for your family—not someone else’s highlight reel. Today’s episode is called “Well-Planned Homeschool,”and it speaks to one of the most common challenges homeschool parents face: staying organized in the middle of real life. From shifting schedules and multiple ages to sports, appointments, and everything in between, keeping plans on track can feel overwhelming. Host Janna Koch is joined by Rebecca Farris for an honest, practical conversation about what organization really looks like in a homeschool setting. Together, they talk through common roadblocks, simple systems that actually work, and realistic ideas for getting organized—and staying organized—without striving for perfection. You’ll also hear how involving the whole family can make adifference, helping kids take ownership of their learning while lightening the mental load for parents. If you’re craving more clarity, smoother days, and a plan that feels supportive rather than stressful, this episode will help you take meaningful steps toward a well-planned homeschool that still leaves room for flexibility. For more information; https://wellplannedgal.com/homeschool-organized/ ABOUT OUR GUEST | Rebecca Farris didn’t set out to start a planner company—she simply needed a better way to manage her time. That skill began early, when at age 14 she worked alongside her dad, handling bookkeeping and administrative tasks using handwritten daily to-do lists. The satisfaction of checking off completed work instilled a strong work ethic and a lifelong appreciation for organization. Those same time-management habits carried into adulthood as she married young, raised five children in seven years, taught herself database programming, and launched a software design company—all while keeping life running smoothly through thoughtful planning. When she added homeschooling to an already full plate, simple to-do lists were no longer enough. Unable to find a planner that could handle homeschooling, household management, and family life in one place, she created her own. What began as a binder of spreadsheets quickly evolved into a comprehensive planning system. Recognizing its value for other homeschool families, she turned it into a business. The planners were an immediate success, eventually expanding to include tools for students as well. By continually creating solutions to meet real-life challenges, she grew The Well Planned Gal into a trusted resource—and remains committed to serving families for years to come. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 193 | Today’s episode is called “SPEAK UP,” and it’s one every parent will recognize. We’re talking about helping kids find their voice—whether that’s confidently chatting with adults, asking questions in unfamiliar settings, standing up for themselves, or eventually stepping into public speaking situations with courage. Host Janna Koch is joined by Dina Schmid, who brings practical wisdom and real-life experience to the conversation as we explore how children can grow comfortable using their voice in different social situations. From everyday, low-pressure conversations to more formal moments where confidence really matters, we’ll talk about how these skills develop naturally—and how parents can gently support that growth without forcing it. If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child speak clearly, confidently, and authentically in a world that asks them to communicate in so many different ways, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about raising kids who know when to speak up, how to speak well, and why their voice matters. ABOUT OUR GUEST | After transitioning from engineering to follow her passion for teaching, Dina Schmid founded QueenCity Etiquette. In addition to holding certification from the prestigious American School of Protocol, she has a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. She also has experience homeschooling, living overseas and is certified as a life coach. She uses her unique combination of skills to bring out the confident speaker she believes is inside of everyone no matter their background. Find out more about admission interviews here. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 192 | In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, we explore the power of intergenerational learning and how the wisdom, stories, and skills of different generations can enrich a child’s education. From grandparents sharing lived experiences to younger adults passing along fresh perspectives, we look at how a mix of ages creates a fuller, more meaningful learning environment. Discover practical ways to invite grandparents, neighbors, and family friends into your homeschool rhythm—and see how these connections can strengthen academics, spark curiosity, and build lifelong relationships. This episode celebrates the beautiful truth that learning doesn’t happen in isolation—it grows stronger when generations learn together. Here's a handy sheet to keep on hand. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Since 2014, Juliana Young has been working with older adults and their families in the home care field, helping them navigate the changes that come with aging and setting up the right services to support independence at home. Her passion for this work began with her own family's experience—when her parents hired a home care company, they witnessed firsthand the power of caregivers to bring companionship, engagement, and dignity to daily life. About six years ago, she discovered the world of intergenerational communication after hearing a podcast that explored creative ways to connect older adults and youth. That moment sparked her curiosity—and ultimately inspired her to help bridge generations through meaningful conversation and shared experiences. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to [email protected]. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 191 | In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, host Janna Koch sits down with The Burned Out Educator to explore the world of educational choice—what it means, why it matters, and how it’s transforming the way families and teachers approach learning. Together, they discuss how educational choice resources empower educators and parents with flexibility, accessibility, and creativity in the classroom and at home. Listeners will gain insight into how educational choice supports personalized learning, encourages collaboration, and helps rekindle a passion for teaching and learning. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or an educator seeking fresh inspiration, this conversation offers practical ideas and renewed motivation to make education more open, engaging, and sustainable. ABOUT OUR GUEST | JOE MARINO In 2020, I experienced the highest highs and lowest lows of my career. I achieved my dream job—becoming a high school head coach after years as an assistant—but shortly after, a serious health scare forced me to make a difficult choice: continue in a career I loved or prioritize my life and well-being. Today, I’ve dedicated my work to helping educators reclaim their time and balance by providing ready-to-use, customizable lesson plans and classroom resources. My goal is to support teachers with tools for in-person, remote, and blended learning, credit recovery, special populations, test prep, and more—so they can focus on teaching, engaging students, and taking care of themselves. Teachers deserve a work-life balance, and I’m here to help make that possible. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, let us know . We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 190 | In this episode, author Chris Landry joins us to share the story behind his book Cajun Kids Adventures, a series inspired by his own family’s experiences. Chris opens up about how he weaves real-life lessons into his writing while also encouraging dads to play an active role in homeschooling. He offers practical advice on how fathers can make learning engaging and fun, while passing down life skills that today’s traditional classrooms often overlook. From outdoor adventures to hands-on projects, Chris shows how dads can enrich their children’s education—and enjoy the journey themselves. ABOUT OUR GUEST | C.P. Landry is a lifelong resident of South Louisiana and a descendant of the original French Acadians. His wife of over 40 years shares a similar heritage as the fifth generation to hunt and fish the Atchafalaya River Basin. Together, they raised their five children to respect both their heritage and their land. The Cajun Kids Adventures series is loosely based on the experiences, challenges and shenanigans of his children’s unique upbringing Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 189 | Welcome to Homeschool Your Way, the podcast that brings you practical tips, inspiring stories, and resources to customize your homeschool journey.Today we’re excited to welcome Robin DeMarco, who will share her expertise in physics and how to teach it in Physics You Can Do—an engaging approach that proves physics doesn’t have to be intimidating. From simple, hands-on experiments using everyday materials to real-world applications that connect science to daily life, Robin shows how families can bring energy, motion, and curiosity alive at the kitchen table. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just getting started, this conversation will give you fresh tools and inspiration to make physics both approachable and fun. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Robin DeMarco is a lifelong resident of Western New York, making her home just outside of Buffalo. She attended the State University of New York College at Brockport, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in physics and minors in earth science, mathematics, and education. After graduation, she completed a Master's of Physics Education from the State University of New York at Buffalo.After 20 years of teaching physics, earth science, and forensics in public high schools, Robin left the classroom and started The OnlinePhysics Teacher (https://theonlinephysicsteacher.com). For the past 15 years, she has continued to work with students by providing one-on-one tutoring in physics, from high school to college level. Using her tutoring experience, she noticed a gap in homeschool physics education and set out to fill it. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 188 | On this episode of Homeschool Your Way, we're joined by Dr. Colleen Kelley, a former University of Arizona chemistry professor and the visionary behind Kids Chemical Solutions. Dr. Kelley shares how her innovative comic book series—starring Poppy and Ray—makes complex chemistry concepts accessible and fun for kids ages 8 to 10. Her mission is to combat what she calls "molecular illiteracy," a widespread challenge that leaves many students unprepared for higher-level science. Tune in to discover how early molecular literacy can set the stage for future success in STEM and how homeschoolers can bring engaging, story-driven science into their learning journey. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Dr. Colleen Kelley Creating fun and accessible chemistry stories has been a labor of love for Colleen as a retired University of Arizona chemistry professor and author of a series of kid’s chemistry comic books. In 2023, the PBS short documentary, “Comic Book Chemistry” was awarded an Emmy. This documentary centered around Colleen’s vision, chemistry comic book series and her success with teaching college-level chemistry concepts to kids. This vision was then presented as a TEDx talk, “Molecular Literacy for Ages 8 – 108” in 2025. During Colleen’s 30 years of teaching chemistry, she became aware that her students were struggling with basic concepts, including fluency with the symbols for the elements themselves. These comic books, videos, and activities are Colleen’s gift to all future scientists – one that will help them succeed in college chemistry. Colleen holds a Ph.D. in chemistry from Penn State University. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.