Homeschool Better Together

Emily Brown

Are you ready for homeschooling to feel joyful again? Do you need support as you learn alongside your kids? Welcome to Homeschool Better Together. Hosted by Laney Homan, this podcast shares how to stop questioning if you are doing enough and create a homeschool experience that fits your family. In the podcast, we break down the big ideas into manageable chunks to give you the confidence and resources you need to finally step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder. Homeschool stories and practical tips are delivered straight to your earbuds full of inspiration and encouragement. They are perfect to listen to while running errands or folding a load of laundry. No matter what homeschool method you use, you’ll learn how to remove the overwhelm from your homeschool so you can focus on building relationships. To stay connected and learn even more about the Homeschooling Better Together resources, join the free community: https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/join-the-community-2/

  1. hace 19 h

    All About Slow Mornings and Sidestepping the Comparison Trap

    Ever found yourself eyeing someone’s “Pinterest pretty” homeschool and wondered if you’re missing something? Today, I’m sitting down with Katy Wallace—our very own graphic designer at Homeschool Better Together—to pull back the curtain on what “real” homeschooling actually looks like. Katy is not just a talented visual visionary—she’s an Alabama homeschool mom of teens, an accidental chicken-keeper, and someone who swore she’d never give up the corporate grind. (Spoiler: she did.) We’re getting personal about how both of us landed in the world of homeschooling when it was NOT on our radar, how our school days have shifted as our families have grown, and what happens when your high schoolers start flying the nest. Katy shares how her creative side spills into her homeschool days (yes, there was sidewalk chalk involved), and why she never joined a co-op—plus how she deals with comparison and all the “shoulds” that come with doing things a little differently. We laugh about slow mornings and Southern accents, dig into why beautiful curriculum actually makes a difference, and talk honestly about sanctification, flexibility, and how homeschooling will expose all your perfectionist tendencies…and why that’s not a bad thing. This one is for every homeschool mom who’s wondered if she’s the only one doing it her own way (hint: you’re not). Join us for a down-to-earth conversation that will leave you feeling encouraged, seen, and a lot less alone. What you’ll learn:Katy’s totally unexpected journey from corporate life to rural homeschool mom and graphic designerThe “normal” (and not-so-normal) homeschool days—slow mornings, morning baskets, and navigating high school independenceWhat actually changes (and what doesn’t) when your kids become teens and start dual enrollment or get part-time jobsWhy Katy never found a co-op that fit and how she avoids the comparison trapThe surprising impact beautiful curriculum design has on our homeschool mood and function (and how clutter really messes with us!)Pep talks on perfectionism, the myth of having it all figured out, and learning to embrace flexibility—even when you’re more “planner” than “free spirit”How faith, prayer, and real-life messiness shape our days more than the right planner or perfect routineHonest talk on the sanctifying work of homeschooling (it’ll grow you just as much as your kids) Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot (step-by-step planning system):The Elevate Program with Finishers Club + live planning accountability:Science TogetherHeaven is Having You by Giles AndreaeEpposumondas by Coleen Salley

  2. 14 jul

    How I Make My Homeschool Plan Work Every Year

    Ever feel like your homeschool planner is just a guilt trip in a spiral binding? Been there, bought the (overly ambitious) boxed curriculum, cried all over it. In this episode, I’m peeling back the curtain on my own 23-year planning evolution—the good, the bad, and the “how did we get this far off track?” moments. If your school year starts hopeful, but quickly turns into a flip-and-flop scramble between “we’re already behind in math” and “wait, who moved the lesson plans again?”, you’re not alone. I’ve walked that tightrope between Pinterest-perfect plans and the reality of messy, beautiful family life. Today, I’m breaking down:Why your planning approach might actually be feeding your overwhelmThe not-so-glamorous backstory of my own planning fails (and what finally clicked)Why I finally ditched those one-size-fits-none grid schedules for a plan that actually works And yes—we’re going deep on my absolute favorite strategy: Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot. Honestly? Total game-changer for ditching the chaos, the guilt, and the endless Sunday-night planner panic. If you’re ready for practical peace, more consistent days, and just a tad more joy in your homeschool, you’ll find all kinds of hope in this conversation. What you’ll learn:How boxed curricula and rigid schedules can set you up for stress and comparison (yep, I lived it)The ugly truth about planning “shoulds” vs. what actually fits your real lifeWhy a big-picture vision beats lesson-plan whack-a-mole every timeThe simple shift that freed up my weekends—and gave me back my sanityHow to build a homeschool plan that’s flexible, realistic, and totally guilt-proofThe underrated superpower of periodic reviews and “just do the next thing” listsWhy planning in the summer is my secret weapon for a strong finish—no more mid-year meltdown Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot (step-by-step planning system): https://shop.homeschoolbettertogether.com/products/put-your-homeschool-year-on-autopilotThe Elevate Program with Finishers Club + live planning accountability: https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/elevate

  3. 30 jun

    How to Elevate Your Homeschool

    Are you tired of feeling like you have to have all the answers (and keep every colored-pencil-coded planner page perfect)? You’re not alone—in fact, that’s exactly why we created Elevate. In today’s episode, I’m talking with Emily Brown, certified life coach and the new owner of Homeschool Better Together, about what moms REALLY need to thrive in their homeschool (spoiler: it’s not just the “right curriculum”). We’re opening up about decision fatigue, unrealistic expectations, self-doubt, burnout, and why you don’t have to go it alone. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re the only one struggling to stay consistent (or just wondered if you’re the only “normal” homeschool mom who hides in the laundry room to regroup), you’re going to feel seen. We also share how community, mindset shifts, and permission to invest in you breathe life into your homeschool journey. Plus, we spill all the details about Elevate—the new membership designed specifically to encourage, equip, and connect homeschool moms, all year long. What you’ll learn:The biggest struggles homeschool moms face—beyond curriculum (and why no one talks about them enough)Why community and mentorship are game-changers for your peace and confidenceWhat unrealistic expectations and “mom guilt” really cost us (and what to do instead)Practical ways to feed your mind, heart, and faith—even in the most chaotic seasonsHow to spot and break out of the “I don’t know” spiral (it’s not you, it’s decision fatigue)What you actually get inside Elevate (and why we’re obsessed with making it affordable and flexible)Tips for getting real support (free or paid) so you never feel isolated again Resources mentioned:Join the free Homeschool Better Together CommunityElevate Membership: access to masterclasses, co-working, mentorship, and ongoing support (now open!): https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/elevate/

  4. 16 jun

    Dawn Garrett Reflects: Connection in Your Homeschool that Lasts

    Are you craving more connection and less chaos in your homeschool life? This week, I got to sit down with the brilliant Dawn Garrett, Homeschool Better Together’s community manager and an experienced homeschool mom whose kids have all graduated and flown the nest. (Yes, she survived—she’s living proof.) We got candid about what “togetherness” really looked like in her homeschool. Dawn shared the honest ups and downs: the seasons when being together at the table was the perfect fit—and the moments when togetherness just wasn’t working. Hear how she pivoted, created new rhythms, faced those inevitable sibling squabbles, and nurtured the deep family bonds that have lasted well into her kids’ adulthood. We also dug into the importance of community for moms—especially when overwhelm strikes. Dawn dishes on finding mentors, being encouraged by fellow homeschoolers, and how relationships with both your kids and other moms are what really matter, long after the worksheets are graded. This one is jam-packed with real talk, encouragement, and more than a few laugh-out-loud stories—because let’s be honest, if you’ve never measured your day by whether someone’s book crossed “the tape line” at the kitchen table, are you even homeschooling? What you’ll learn:Dawn’s “origin story”—why she went all-in on homeschooling (spoiler: the desire started long before kids arrived)The power of morning time as the anchor for their best homeschool days—and what happened when she had to let it goWhy being together is beautiful… until it isn’t (and how to recognize when it’s time to try something new)The messy, hilarious reality of sibling relationships at home (and the infamous masking tape table trick)How the atmosphere you create—over years—helps kids remain connected long after graduation (yes, even when you thought they might never stop bickering)Simple, practical ways to foster relationships, reconciliation, and wonder at your homeschool table—even on days you want to wave the white flagWhy community with other homeschool moms is essential for your sanity, confidence, and growth (plus, Dawn’s tips for finding true connection—even if it’s online)What to do when you’re in the thick of overwhelm: where to focus, what to drop, and how to “step out of the chaos and into the wonder.” Mentioned in this episode:Cindy Rollins’ resourcesAmbleside Online (for Charlotte Mason inspiration)The Homeschool Better Together Community Your Next Steps:Ready to build honest, lasting relationships in your homeschool? Join our free online community for encouragement, resources, and real connection.Never miss an episode! Be sure to follow, subscribe, and leave a review so you don’t miss what’s next.Find out more about Homeschool Better Together resources for your best homeschool year.

  5. 2 jun

    Practical Habits to Reclaim Your Rest

    Ready to finally break free from the relentless go-go-go of homeschool mom life and actually feel rested again? (Nope, that nagging to-do list doesn't count.) In this episode, I’m inviting you behind the scenes of my own summer shift—from noisy productivity to a slower, more soul-filling kind of rest. Here's the not-so-secret truth: most of us homeschool moms are absolutely terrible at resting. I know I am. Give me an empty summer calendar, and suddenly I’m knee-deep in a bedroom declutter, my head bursting with more projects than I could possibly finish. Meanwhile, my kids are doing exactly what summer’s meant for: slowing down, savoring, sleeping in, play, and a little joyful loafing. Why is it so hard for us to join them? This week, I’m reflecting on what rest really means (hint: it's way deeper than a rare solo trip to Target). There’s “day at the spa” rest, sure—but even more, there’s the everyday spiritual and emotional rest Jesus offers. I’m sharing practical habits I’m actively working on—like journaling in my Bible, being intentional with what I choose to read (and what inputs I allow!), slowing down my audiobooks (yes, really), and actually carving out margin to just...be quiet. Maybe you’ll hear something that sparks your own personal “rest” list. Want to create habits of rest, not just wish for them? Grab your notebook. Let’s do it. What you'll hear in this episode:The honest confession: why “rest” never makes it to the top of my list—and what changed this summer.The four types of exhaustion (and why it matters for homeschool moms).What spiritual rest really looks like (spoiler: it’s not a spa day).My personal “habits of rest” list for summer—including practical, small ways to slow down.Choosing your “inputs” and why intentionality matters for an overwhelmed mind.How to reclaim quiet reflection and model healthier rhythms for our kids.The “shutdown practice” I’m experimenting with to protect my evenings and my sanity. Resources mentioned:Tired of Being Tired by Jess ConnollyMatthew 11:28-30Journaling BibleKayse Pratt’s Weekly Reset System on sale through June 30, 2026!Previous episode with Kasey Pratt on monthly planning Your turn:What would make your own "habits of rest" list?Which type of exhaustion is loudest in your life right now?Share your list or reflections in our homeschool community!

  6. 19 may

    The Unexpected Benefits of Homeschooling Together

    Ever bribe your kids with snacks just so everyone gets through “group time” without a meltdown? Been there, done that. For a long time, I thought the best way to cut the chaos was to keep my kids separated—both in life and in homeschooling. Spoiler: All that did was up my stress and leave my relationships running on empty. In this episode, I’m getting super honest about how I finally embraced the real meaning behind “homeschool better together.” From my early days of keeping squabbling siblings apart (for my own sanity) to the messy, miraculous shift of bringing everyone to the table, I’m sharing what it actually takes to create a peaceful, connected homeschool—and why it’s absolutely not just about the academics. We’ll talk about the nitty-gritty of navigating sibling drama, the emotional marathon that is homeschooling, and why mom-friends (the ones in the trenches with you) matter just as much as your lesson plans. Plus, I’ll share the “aha” moment that connected the dots between running an ultramarathon and needing community as a homeschool mom. Whether you’re burned out from breaking up arguments, longing for real support, or just want a homeschool that feels less lonely, this episode is for YOU. What you'll learn:Why “homeschooling together” used to terrify me (and what changed)The hidden pitfalls of separating siblings for “peace”How bringing your kids together shapes more than just academics—it builds character and relationshipsThe messy, slow process of learning to guide sibling conflict, not just survive itWhy finding your homeschool “people” (peer or mentor) is vital—and not just a nice-to-haveWhat running an ultramarathon taught me about support, encouragement, and shared strugglePractical encouragement for moms who feel isolated, exhausted, or unsure “together” will ever work Your Next Steps:Join our email list to be the first to hear the details about the Homeschool Better Together Elevate Program (doors opening this summer)! Sign up for the email list here and receive our free planning pages.Feeling stuck and alone? Join our supportive, online community for free!Share this episode with a homeschool mom who needs to know she’s not alone

  7. 5 may

    Why Emily Said Yes

    Is anyone else feeling that mix of excitement and nerves when big changes come to your favorite corner of homeschool internet? Yep, us too. But today’s episode is about pulling back the curtain (no Pinterest-perfect backdrops here) and inviting you to meet the heart behind Homeschool Better Together’s next chapter. Today I (Laney) sit down with Emily Brown—homeschool mom, longtime superfan, certified life coach, and now, (drumroll, please), the new owner and lead cheerleader for Homeschool Better Together. We dive into her real-life journey from “absolutely-not-ever-homeschooler” to full-circle homeschooling advocate, how she found herself unexpectedly running the show, and what’s staying the same (spoiler: most things, including the curriculum you love) as well as what new encouragement and support is coming your way. If you crave reassurance about the future, or just want to feel seen in the not-so-shiny parts of homeschool life, this conversation is for you. Expect honest stories, a few laugh-out-loud moments about meltdown drop-offs, and the kind of practical wisdom that grows from messy beginnings (and seven kids in eight years—send coffee). What you’ll learn:Emily’s honest story: how she ended up leading the community that resonated with her heart when she found herself in the midst of homeschooling even after she swore "she would never."The #1 reason her family finally committed to homeschooling—and why “togetherness” is still the core of everything at HBT.How burnout, school drop-off tears, and self-doubt actually forged her style and shaped her heart for helping other moms.What’s NOT changing at Homeschool Better Together (curriculum, community, all the laughter, all the Narnia units, and the support you count on).A sneak peek into Elevate: opening to more moms, more often, with the same “moms in the trenches” mentorship you love—plus Emily’s special blend of life coaching know-how.Why Homeschool Better Together will always be run by real homeschoolers, for real homeschoolers—no fake, no pressure, just practical joy.Emily’s vision for building a culture where the number one lesson isn’t “do it right,” but “build the relationships first." Resources & Next Steps:Keep an eye out for new Narnia language arts units, upcoming science plans, plus a curriculum bundle coming soon. While you wait, check out our titles available now! Language Arts Together: The Lion, the Witch, and the WardrobeLanguage Arts Together: The Magician's NephewLanguage Arts Together: The Silver ChairScience Together: Physical Science Bundle Curious about Elevate, Bootcamp, curriculum releases, or community news? Make sure you’re on the email list. Sign up here and receive our free planning pages.

  8. 21 abr

    How to Stop Killing Creativity in Your Homeschool: A Conversation with the Co-Founder of Night Zookeeper

    Are your kids dragging their feet when it comes to writing? You’re far from alone. This week on Homeschool Better Together, Laney Homan sits down with Joshua Davidson—children’s author and co-founder of Night Zookeeper—to unpack why so many kids lose their early love for creativity, and, most importantly, how we can spark that joy (and confidence) again, even for the most reluctant writers. Joshua shares a behind-the-scenes look into how creativity and story play a critical role in confidence building—not just on paper, but in your child’s sense of self. We talk about the science behind why kids start doubting their creative abilities (especially around ages 7–8), the difference between praise-based and skills-based confidence, and why stories can help even literal, “grandpa before their time” thinkers start to unlock imaginative worlds. Laney also gets honest about her goal-oriented, checklist mindset (raise your hand if you’re with me) and how it can unintentionally sap the joy from our homeschool days. There are plenty of practical ideas you can try today—whether your child needs a gentle push into creative writing, a safe space for self-expression, or just permission to invent the next great “kickboxing tiger.” Yes, that’s a thing! Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll learn:Why writing is so dang hard for kids (it’s not just them!)The age when children typically get self-conscious… and what to do about itHow creative expression anchors real confidence—not just loud “look at me” energyThe surprising link between storytelling, play, and long-lasting self-awarenessTips for helping both wildly imaginative and “black-and-white thinker” kids get unstuckNew ways to use character-building (without forcing kids to produce yet another story)How to leverage positive peer feedback—even when you’re homeschooling soloThe difference between praise-based confidence (“Good job!”) and skills-based confidence (the kind that actually lasts) Resources Mentioned:Night Zookeeper programSir Ken Robinson (on creativity)Homeschool Better Together’s Language Arts Together program Your Next Steps:Check out Night Zookeeper for a playful, confident approach to writingTry building writing sessions around character creation—or let kids expand on their favorite movie/book character adventuresEmbrace “imperfect” creative sessions—sometimes that wild made-up word is the best thing your family will remember Ready for more encouragement and practical tools? Join our free homeschool community. For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/stop-killing-creativity

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Are you ready for homeschooling to feel joyful again? Do you need support as you learn alongside your kids? Welcome to Homeschool Better Together. Hosted by Laney Homan, this podcast shares how to stop questioning if you are doing enough and create a homeschool experience that fits your family. In the podcast, we break down the big ideas into manageable chunks to give you the confidence and resources you need to finally step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder. Homeschool stories and practical tips are delivered straight to your earbuds full of inspiration and encouragement. They are perfect to listen to while running errands or folding a load of laundry. No matter what homeschool method you use, you’ll learn how to remove the overwhelm from your homeschool so you can focus on building relationships. To stay connected and learn even more about the Homeschooling Better Together resources, join the free community: https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/join-the-community-2/

Información

  • Creador
    Emily Brown
  • Años de actividad
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodios
    222
  • Clasificación
    Apto
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Homeschool Better Together
  • Mostrar sitio web
    Homeschool Better Together

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