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Grab your coffee, hit play, and let's homeschool together!
Grab your coffee, hit play, and let's homeschool together!
Episodes
18 minutes ago
18 minutes ago
Homeschooling gives us more time with our children. But what happens when that time is filled with frustration, conflict, or constant correction?
In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with Catholic homeschool mom of seven and life coach Emily Brown to explore the powerful role of connection in peaceful parenting. Emily shares practical, faith-centered strategies to help moms navigate difficult behaviors, reduce overwhelm, and build stronger relationships with their children.
From handling meltdowns and defiance to shifting your own mindset and responding with calm confidence, this conversation offers real encouragement for moms in the trenches. If you’ve ever wondered how to discipline without damaging your relationship, or how to find peace in the middle of a hard season, this episode is for you.
Sponsor
At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit through online dual enrollment.
Learn more at: franciscan.edu
Show Notes
Key Takeaways:
- Behavior is often a form of communication
- Calm, connected parenting is more effective than reactive discipline
- Small moments of attention can transform relationships
- You are not failing—you are being formed alongside your children
Resources Mentioned:
- Free PDF: 30 New Thoughts to Think
https://fiatlifecoaching.com/30-new-thoughts-sign-up - Fiat Life Coaching:
https://fiatlifecoaching.com/ - Homeschool Better Together:
https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/ - Happy, Holy Mama Podcast:
https://fiatlifecoaching.com/podcast
About Our Guest
Emily Brown is a Catholic homeschooling mother of 7, including her first homeschool graduate this year, with a second graduating soon, down to a rising second grader. She’s a former youth leader turned certified life coach with a deep passion for building up the kingdom of God, one family at a time, starting with the mother.
Emily runs a life-coaching membership for Catholic homeschool moms called Happy, Holy Mama, where you can learn practical tools to think, feel, and serve God better through your family.
She is also now the proud owner and CEO of Homeschool Better Together, an online curriculum and homeschool support provider that helps families homeschool multiple children with more joy and connection.
You can listen to her on the Happy, Holy Mama Podcast. And you can learn more about her work at fiatlifecoaching.com and homeschoolbettertogether.com
What We Cover in This Episode:
- Why homeschooling can make behavior feel both easier and harder
- The real reason behavior issues feel overwhelming (hint: it’s not just the kids)
- Why “connection before correction” changes everything
- How your thoughts shape your reactions, and your homeschool atmosphere
- What to do in the moment when emotions are high (for both mom and child)
- Why logic doesn’t work during meltdowns, and what does instead
- Simple ways to calm yourself and your child (including “Holy Spirit breaths”)
- The importance of daily connection to prevent repeated outbursts
- How to respond when a child pushes you away
- Encouragement for moms who feel like they’re “not enough.”
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Monday Apr 27, 2026
Charlotte Mason Homeschooling 101: What It Is (and What It Isn’t) | Ep. 282
Monday Apr 27, 2026
Monday Apr 27, 2026
What is a Charlotte Mason education? And is it really as overwhelming as it seems?
In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with veteran homeschool mom and educator Jen Mackintosh Weaver to break down Charlotte Mason homeschooling in simple, practical terms. Jen explains what this philosophy truly is (and what it isn’t), why it’s far more flexible than most parents think, and how it can be adapted to any season of family life.
From living books and narration to building attention and fostering meaningful relationships, this conversation will help you cut through the confusion and discover whether Charlotte Mason might be a good fit for your homeschool.
Whether you’re brand new to homeschooling or looking to simplify what you’re already doing, this episode is a must-listen.
Thank You to Our Sponsor
At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit through online dual enrollment.
Learn more at: https://franciscan.edu/advantage/
SHOW NOTES
Resources Mentioned:
- Jen’s website: https://wildflowersandmarbles.com
- The Morning Basket (article):
https://wildflowersandmarbles.com/2009/08/05/the-morning-basket/ - The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald:
https://amzn.to/4tSfQyF - Mater Amabilis (free Catholic Charlotte Mason curriculum):
https://materamabilis.org/ma/ - Catholic Charlotte Mason Primer:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/catholic-charlotte-mason/ - Homeschool Connections Reading Lists:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/reading-lists/
What We Cover in This Episode:
- What a Charlotte Mason education actually is—and common misconceptions
- Why Charlotte Mason is simpler and more flexible than it appears
- The difference between “living books” and textbooks
- How narration works (and why it’s a powerful form of assessment)
- What a typical Charlotte Mason homeschool day looks like
- The importance of short lessons and building attention
- How this method fosters independence and lifelong learning
- Why relationships are at the heart of Charlotte Mason education
- How to start small without becoming overwhelmed
- Adapting your homeschool during difficult seasons (illness, grief, major life changes)
- The importance of margin, flexibility, and trusting the process
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Monday Apr 20, 2026
Should Your Child Learn Latin? The Surprising Benefits! | Ep. 281
Monday Apr 20, 2026
Monday Apr 20, 2026
Is Latin really a “dead language” or is it one of the most powerful tools you can give your child?
In this episode, host Kaitlin Zara talks with Homeschool Connections instructor Debbie Gaudino about why Latin still matters today. From strengthening vocabulary and grammar to building discipline, perseverance, and even deepening faith, Latin offers far more than most parents realize.
Debbie shares practical advice for getting started (even if you’ve never studied Latin yourself), how to motivate reluctant learners, and why learning Latin can connect students to their cultural and spiritual heritage in a profound way.
If you’ve ever wondered whether Latin is worth it for your homeschool, this conversation will change the way you think about it.
Thank You to Our Sponsor!
At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major.
20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit through online dual enrollment.
Learn more at: https://franciscan.edu/advantage/
Resources Mentioned:
- Latin Tutorial YouTube Channel (great starting point):
https://www.youtube.com/@latintutorial - Debbie Gaudino Instructor Page:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/instructors/debbie-gaudino/
What We Cover in This Episode:
- Is Latin really a “dead language”? Why it’s actually everywhere today
- How Latin strengthens vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills
- Why Latin is especially helpful for science, law, medicine, and Romance languages
- The best age to introduce Latin (and why younger is often better)
- How Latin builds discipline, patience, and perseverance in students
- Why Latin is like solving a puzzle—and why that matters in today’s fast-paced world
- How Latin connects students to history, culture, and the Catholic faith
- Real-life examples of Latin in everyday language (like “veto” and “etc.”)
- Practical tips for parents who feel unprepared to teach Latin
- How to motivate reluctant learners
- The importance of doing hard things—and the long-term rewards
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Tuesday Apr 14, 2026
Starting a Homeschool Co-op Without Burning Out | Ep. 280
Tuesday Apr 14, 2026
Tuesday Apr 14, 2026
John Paul the Great Catholic University offers hands-on programs in creative arts, digital media, theology, and business in a faithfully Catholic environment. Apply for free and explore free storytelling courses: https://jpcatholic.edu/landingpages/homeschool-connections/
Thinking about starting a homeschool co-op—but worried about overwhelm? Lindsay Carpenter shares her real-life journey from burnout in a large co-op to building a simple, thriving, faith-centered homeschool community. Learn how to balance service and family life, avoid common pitfalls, and create something that truly works for your family.
Show Notes:
- Lindsay’s journey from public school teacher to homeschool leader
- Why bigger isn’t always better
- The “year of no” and resetting priorities
- How to discern your community’s real needs
- Why simplicity is key
- Avoiding burnout while serving others
- Encouraging parents to step into teaching roles
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Monday Apr 06, 2026
How One Homeschool Mom Built a Thriving Catholic Community | Ep 279
Monday Apr 06, 2026
Monday Apr 06, 2026
Today's sponsor is Franciscan University of Steubenville.
What if opening your home could transform an entire community?
In this inspiring episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Kathleen Billings—Catholic speaker, author, and homeschool mom—to share the incredible story of how her family began hosting small gatherings that grew into monthly events of 200–300 people.
Kathleen shares how a leap of faith led her family to a new state, how simple acts of hospitality turned into a powerful ministry, and how prayer, marriage, and trust in God sustain it all. If you’ve ever longed for deeper community or felt called to something more, this episode will encourage you to take that first step.
Show Notes:
Resources Mentioned: Smart Martha’s Catholic Guide for Busy Moms by Tami Kiser: https://amzn.to/4bXXwMP
Your Holy Family Ministries: https://yourholyfamily.org/
Troy & Kathleen Billings’ ministry and book Simply Love: https://godsplan4u.info/
Additional Resources:
Go on pilgrimage with the Billings: https://selectinternationaltours.com/troy-and-kathleen-billings/
Kathleen’s son David’s website: https://godsplan4u.info/
Thank You to Our Sponsor:
This episode is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville. At Franciscan University, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. Twenty percent of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background.
High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s dual enrollment program. Learn more at https://franciscan.edu/advantage/
In this episode, we discuss:
- Kathleen’s family's move and a leap of faith during COVID.
- How a simple rosary gathering grew into a 300-person monthly event.
- Building Catholic community through hospitality and consistency.
- Practical ways to create connection in your own homeschool life.
- The role of marriage and prayer in sustaining family ministry.
- Trusting God’s call—even when you don’t have all the details
Kathleen's Biography:
Kathleen Billings is a national Catholic speaker and an award-winning author. She and her husband, Troy, have five children, one son-in-law, one grandchild on the way, and 4 souls in Heaven.
She resides with her family on their 5-acre homestead in South Carolina. Kathleen has written for Catholic Mom, WINE- Women in the New Evangelization, and had a blog entitled “Two to Tango” in the For Your Marriage section of the USCCB Website.
She is also a contributing author to the book, Amazing Grace for Mothers (Ascension Press) and Called by Name - 365 Daily Devotions for Catholic Women (Ave Maria Press).
Kathleen and her husband, Troy, are the co-authors of the award-winning book Simply Love: Catholic Marriage Day by Day, published by Our Sunday Visitor. Kathleen and her husband Tory’s website where you can learn more about their ministries: troyandkathleenbillings.com
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Monday Mar 30, 2026
How (and Why) to Introduce Politics into Your Catholic Homeschool | Ep 278
Monday Mar 30, 2026
Monday Mar 30, 2026
Should politics be part of your homeschool curriculum?
Many parents hesitate to introduce political discussions at home, especially in today’s polarized culture. However, avoiding the topic entirely may leave our children unprepared to understand the world they are inheriting.
In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Catholic journalist Erika Ahern, producer and host of The Deep and co-host of Catholic Vote’s LOOPcast, to discuss how homeschooling parents can thoughtfully introduce politics and current events into their family life.
Erika shares practical advice for helping children develop a healthy understanding of politics while keeping their formation rooted in faith, truth, and Catholic principles.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
Catholic Classical Homeschool Curricula:
- Mother of Divine Grace School, https://modg.org/
- Kolbe Academy, https://www.kolbe.org/
- Homeschool Connections, https://homeschoolconnections.com/
The Story of Civilization – Phillip Campbell: https://tanbooks.com/homeschool/shop-by-product-line/story-of-civilization/
Zeale – A teenager-safe news source: https://zeale.co/
The LOOPcast Podcast (CatholicVote): https://catholicvote.org/podcast/
The LOOPcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theLOOPcast
Articles by Erika Ahern (CatholicVote): https://catholicvote.org/author/erika-ahern/
Sponsor
This episode is sponsored by John Paul the Great Catholic University.
John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs within creative arts, digital media, theology, and business in a faithfully Catholic environment.
Apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses at:
👉 jpcatholic.edu/homeschool
About Our Guest
Erika Ahern is a Catholic journalist and media professional. She is the producer and host of The Deep and co-host of CatholicVote’s LOOPcast.
Her writing has appeared in:
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USA Today
-
Washington Examiner
-
National Catholic Register
-
RealClear Politics
-
RealClear Religion
-
The Daily Caller
-
Crisis Magazine
Erika regularly appears on podcasts, talk radio, and television programs, including Newsmax, Relevant Radio, and EWTN.
She lives outside New Haven, Connecticut, with her husband and their seven children.
In this episode we discuss:
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Why Catholic families should not avoid political conversations
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How to introduce current events in an age-appropriate way
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Safe news sources for teens and older students
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How history helps children understand today’s political landscape
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Practical resources for integrating current events into your homeschool
If you’ve ever wondered when and how to begin discussing politics with your children, this episode will give you thoughtful guidance and helpful resources.
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Monday Mar 23, 2026
The Homeschool Mom’s Ultimate Morning Routine (Body, Mind, & Soul) | Ep 277
Monday Mar 23, 2026
Monday Mar 23, 2026
Feeling overstimulated, exhausted, or like you have nothing left to give by midday?
You’re not alone.
In this encouraging conversation, Kaitlin sits down with Catholic author, speaker, and homeschooling mom Stephanie Weinert, founder of Mother & Home, to talk about how moms can build a life-giving morning routine that supports their body, mind, and soul.
Stephanie shares the lessons she learned through years of homeschooling during difficult seasons—including miscarriages, exhaustion, and burnout—and how God led her to a more ordered and grace-filled way of living.
Instead of chasing the latest “mom hacks” or social media trends, Stephanie explains how Catholic mothers can anchor their days in prayer, healthy habits, and hope.
Sponsor
This episode is sponsored by Fiat Life Coaching.
Emily Brown from Fiat Life Coaching offers premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms to learn essential skills to manage their time, other people's behavior, and their own mental and emotional well-being.
Learn more about her signature program, The Happy, Holy Mama Membership, at:
About Our Guest
Stephanie Weinert is the founder of Mother & Home, a ministry and marketplace dedicated to encouraging mothers in the dignity and importance of their vocation within the home.
She is a Catholic wife, mother, writer, and media personality who previously served as a radio host for EWTN Global Catholic Network before stepping away from her career to focus on her family.
A convert to Catholicism and second-generation homeschooler, Stephanie is passionate about Scripture study, Catholic motherhood, and encouraging women in their spiritual lives.
She speaks nationally and internationally on topics including faith, homeschooling, family life, and suffering as part of the Christian journey.
Learn more and follow Stephanie here:
🌐 Website: https://motherandhome.co
📷 Instagram: https://instagram.com/stephanieweinert
Key Takeaways from This Episode
• Small habits build powerful momentum
• Good routines start the night before
• Exercise improves mood, energy, and resilience
• Social media routines rarely reflect real life
• The “next right step” approach reduces overwhelm
• Hope is essential when navigating difficult seasons
To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:
Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!
Monday Mar 16, 2026
Homeschooling Photography: The Power of Creative Subjects | Ep 276
Monday Mar 16, 2026
Monday Mar 16, 2026
Episode Description
Creative subjects are often the first to get pushed aside in education—but they may be some of the most important.
In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with online instructor and professional photographer Victoria Cerise to discuss why creative outlets like photography play a vital role in a student’s development.
Victoria explains how creative subjects help students slow down, become more aware of the world around them, and grow in confidence. She also shares how photography can strengthen academic learning across subjects—from science and history to literature—and encourage curiosity about God’s creation.
The conversation also includes practical advice for parents who want to introduce photography into their homeschool, even if they have no experience themselves.
Whether your child is interested in photography, writing, art, or another creative pursuit, this episode offers encouragement and ideas to nurture those passions and help students develop skills that last a lifetime.
Show Notes
Resources Mentioned
Victoria’s Photography Website
https://mysticalrosephotos.com/
Victoria’s Homeschool Connections Instructor Page
https://homeschoolconnections.com/instructors/victoria-cerise/
Victoria’s Photography Courses
https://caravel.homeschoolconnections.com/catalog/table?tableSearch=photography
Recommended Camera: Canon T3i (Canon Rebel Series)
https://amzn.to/4sGwkbP
Thank You to Our Sponsor
This episode is sponsored by John Paul the Great Catholic University.
John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs in creative arts, digital media, theology, and business within a faithfully Catholic environment.
Students explore storytelling, filmmaking, animation, and entrepreneurship while growing in their faith.
You can apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses at:
jpcatholic.edu/homeschool
About Our Guest
Victoria Cerise is a Homeschool Connections instructor and professional Catholic wedding photographer.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The College of New Jersey and previously worked as an emergency department nurse. Today, she combines her passion for science education and photography to help students see the beauty of God’s design in the world around them.
Victoria, who was homeschooled herself, teaches science and photography courses through Homeschool Connections. She is also active in pro-life advocacy and enjoys learning new homemaking skills in her log cabin home.
In This Episode We Discuss
Why Creative Subjects Matter
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How creative outlets support emotional and mental health
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Why recreation and creativity are essential for human flourishing
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Building healthy alternatives to passive entertainment like social media
How Photography Builds Confidence
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Why photography is an accessible creative skill for beginners
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How quick success encourages students to keep learning
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The role of encouragement and feedback in building confidence
The Hidden Educational Benefits of Photography
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Learning to slow down and observe the world more intentionally
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Developing situational awareness and attention to detail
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Discovering beauty in God’s creation
Photography Across the Curriculum
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Using photography in science lessons (erosion, nature observation)
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Creative assignments tied to literature and faith
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Exploring historical locations and visual context
Encouraging Student-Led Learning
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How photography sparks curiosity about the natural world
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Letting students follow their interests and ask questions
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Turning everyday observations into learning opportunities
Practical Tips for Parents
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Starting photography, even if you have no experience
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Using YouTube tutorials and structured courses
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Bringing cameras along on hikes, zoo trips, and family outings
Choosing a Beginner Camera
Recommended starter camera:
Canon Rebel series (such as the Canon T3i)
Affordable options can often be found on eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
Encouraging Creative Career Paths
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Why parents should nurture creative passions rather than discourage them
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The value of mentorship and shadowing professionals
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Remembering that hobbies themselves are valuable, even if they never become careers
Grab your coffee and let's homeschool together!
Monday Mar 09, 2026
Homeschooling a Large Family: Tips and Insights | Ep 275
Monday Mar 09, 2026
Monday Mar 09, 2026
How do you homeschool when your family keeps growing?
In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Chantal Howard, founder of Catholic Finishing School and mother of seven, to talk about the joys and challenges of homeschooling a large family.
Chantal shares practical wisdom from her own homeschooling journey—raising children from newborn to college age while managing family life, work, and faith. She discusses how to cultivate independence in children, adapt to different learning styles, and maintain peace in a busy household.
From anchoring the day with prayer to embracing the flexibility that homeschooling provides, Chantal encourages parents to see family life itself as a powerful school of virtue and formation.
If you’ve ever wondered how homeschooling works with a big family—or felt overwhelmed by the idea—this episode offers encouragement, practical tips, and a reminder that God provides the grace needed for the vocation of parenthood.
Show Notes
Thank You to Our Sponsor
This episode is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville.
At Franciscan University, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. Twenty percent of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background.
High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s dual enrollment program.
Learn more at Franciscan.edu
About Our Guest
Chantal Howard is the founder of Catholic Finishing School, a formation movement devoted to helping young Catholic women and their mothers grow in virtue, beauty, and authentic femininity.
A seasoned life and business coach with more than ten years of experience, Chantal integrates her passion for Catholic culture, natural living, entrepreneurship, and family life to inspire women to flourish body, mind, and soul.
She is also the author of The School of the Family: A Renaissance of Catholic Formation, which explores how families can become centers of virtue and culture in the modern world.
Chantal lives in Sandpoint, Idaho with her husband, Dr. Peter Howard, and their seven children.
Resources Mentioned
Catholic Finishing School (Special discount link for listeners):
https://catholicfinishingschool.com/connections/
Chantal Howard Website:
https://www.chantal-howard.com/
Chantal Howard Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/coach.chantal.howard/
Homeschool Connections Course Catalog:
https://caravel.homeschoolconnections.com/catalog
In This Episode, We Discuss
Starting the Homeschool Day with Faith
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Why the family rosary anchors their homeschool day
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Creating a spiritual rhythm in family life
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Integrating prayer into everyday routines
Homeschooling Multiple Ages at Once
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Managing learning for children from infants to teens
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Creating “pods” of learning within the home
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Encouraging independent study
Fostering a Love of Learning
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Why homeschooling isn’t about recreating school at home
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How curiosity and freedom cultivate motivated learners
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Encouraging children to pursue their interests
Adapting to Different Learning Styles
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Why no single curriculum works for every child
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Being flexible with educational approaches
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Letting go of perfection and trusting the process
Homeschooling During Pregnancy and Postpartum
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Embracing seasons of life
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Allowing older children to help with family responsibilities
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Letting “life itself” become a teacher
Managing the Chaos of a Large Family
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Creating “zones” for focused learning
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Using technology wisely when needed
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Allowing homeschool schedules to remain flexible
Teaching Responsibility at Home
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Why chores are part of a child’s formation
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Creating a family team mentality
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Raising capable and responsible young adults
Self-Care for Homeschool Moms
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Establishing daily routines and rhythms
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The importance of prayer and spiritual habits
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Finding small moments of peace in a busy day
Encouragement for Parents Homeschooling Large Families
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Why parents shouldn’t fear the challenge
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The value of family culture and formation
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Trusting that God fills the gaps in our efforts
Monday Mar 02, 2026
Fitness in the Homeschool Life: Raising Strong Minds and Bodies | Ep 274
Monday Mar 02, 2026
Monday Mar 02, 2026
In this energizing episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with online history instructor and newly certified personal trainer Phillip Campbell to talk about the vital role of health and fitness in homeschooling.
Phillip shares his personal transformation journey—from struggling with fatigue and poor bloodwork in his late 30s to becoming a certified trainer through the American Council on Exercise.
They discuss:
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Why sedentary lifestyles are quietly damaging our kids’ health
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How diet affects focus, mood, and academic performance
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The importance of building muscle and bone density early
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Practical, low-cost ways to implement cardio and strength training at home
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How tracking fitness progress builds agency and self-esteem
If you’ve ever wondered how to integrate intentional physical training into your homeschool day, or how to help your teen build lifelong healthy habits, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement.
Thank You to Our Sponsor
This episode is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville.
At Franciscan University, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. Twenty percent of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background!
High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscan’s dual enrollment program.
Learn more at Franciscan.edu
Show Notes
About Our Guest
Phillip Campbell is a longtime history instructor for Homeschool Connections and author of the popular Story of Civilization series from TAN Books. He holds a degree in European history from Ave Maria University and a degree in Secondary Education from Madonna University. Recently, Phillip completed the American Council on Exercise certification program and is now a certified personal trainer.
Resources Mentioned
Phillip’s HSC Author Page:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/author/?n=228687
Helping Teens Understand Real Nutrition:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/helping-teens-understand-real-nutrition/
Finding Happiness article: https://catholicexchange.com/happiness-is-close-at-hand-using-the-sermon-on-the-mount-as-an-antidote-to-anxiety/
More Health & Fitness Articles:
https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/physical-education-pe/
Phillip’s Website:
https://phillipcampbell.net/
Phillip’s Online Courses:
https://caravel.homeschoolconnections.com/catalog/table?tableFilters[instructors][value]=43
In This Episode, We Discuss
Phillip’s Personal Health Transformation
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His wake-up call in his late 30s
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Reversing poor bloodwork and chronic pain
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The power of incremental progress
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Becoming ACE certified
Mental Benefits of Exercise for Homeschoolers
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Improved focus and sustained energy
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Reduced lethargy and depressive symptoms
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Increased confidence and self-esteem
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Building a sense of personal agency
The Sedentary Culture Problem
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The health risks tied to inactivity
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Why “just running around” isn’t enough
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The need for intentional strength and cardio training
Nutrition & Academic Performance
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Why teens need sufficient calories (especially girls)
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The danger of under-eating and hidden eating disorders
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Simple vs. complex carbohydrates
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Avoiding fad diets and food demonization
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Simple, realistic meal strategies for busy homeschool families
How Much Exercise Do Kids Need?
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A practical rule of thumb for sedentary hours
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Structuring weekly fitness: cardio + strength + flexibility
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Why progressive overload matters
Simple At-Home Fitness Ideas
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Walking + sprint intervals
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Jump rope
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Push-ups, planks, and calisthenics
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Dumbbells and kettlebells
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Tracking progress with written logs
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Making fitness interdisciplinary (math + science + data tracking!)
Building Agency Through Fitness
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Why measurable progress matters
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How strength training builds confidence
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Competing against yourself, not others
