Own Your Education™

VELA

Own Your Education™ is a weekly conversation for families doing education their own way. Education is more than schooling—it's a holistic lifestyle of freedom. Join us for real stories from brave parents building education that fits with their lives and their values.

Episodes

  1. 28 JAN

    Love the Good: Shawna’s Unexpected Path to Microschool Founder

    In this week’s episode, we chat with Shawna Hein, parent of two teenagers and founder of Northfield Academy, to explore how classical education helps students learn to love the good. Shawna shares her journey from homeschooling her neurodivergent son to (unexpectedly) leading a microschool that prioritizes beauty, wonder, and deep learning. We discuss why reading Shakespeare aloud as a community beats silent reading, how etymology becomes second nature, and why hospitality matters.  HIGHLIGHTS • Why classical education focuses on helping students "discern what is good and love the good" • How reading ancient texts aloud as a community mirrors their original oral tradition • The power of etymology and how students begin "thinking in Cedi form" • Why Northfield Academy keeps class sizes small and technology minimal • How one struggling freshman improved 3-4 grade levels in reading within a year • The importance of asking "why" behind every rule and lesson • How homeschooling can reignite a parent's own love of learning • Why hospitality and creating welcoming learning environments matter • The myth that non-traditional education has to be expensive CHAPTERS [0:23] Introduction to Shawna Hein and Northfield Academy[1:00] Shawna's favorite Shakespeare piece and teaching it to young students[4:16] What it means to "discern what is good and love the good"[6:49] Reading the classics aloud as a community[9:01] Shawna's homeschooling journey with her neurodivergent son[12:36] How her daughter requested to attend school and discovered Northfield[19:52] The three components of classical education: grammar, logic, and rhetoric[28:52] The importance of low-tech learning and building relationships[31:50] How both of Shawna's children chose different educational paths[36:06] The school motto: "Let them be born in wonder" RESOURCES MENTIONED • Northfield Academy - Classical micro school in Wichita, Kansas - https://northfieldacademy.org• Eighth Day Books - Local bookstore in Wichita - https://eighthdaybooks.com• ACE Scholarships - Scholarship program that helps families afford private education - https://acescholarships.org• WISE (Wichita Innovative Schools and Education) - Resource organization for alternative education options - https://www.wisetogether.org/ Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store or Google Play.

    36 min

  2. 21 JAN

    Classical Roots, Radical Simplicity: William on family, faith, and education (Part 2)

    What if the key to raising resilient, grounded children isn't found in more activities, more technology, or more structured programs—but in less? In Part 2 of last week’s episode, William Durant—father of seven and founder of St. John Paul II Independent School—dives deeper into classical education through the lens of the “common arts.” He shares why hands-on work, good books, and a clear pursuit of truth are essential to forming thoughtful, grounded children in a world increasingly shaped by technology. William also offers practical resources for families curious about classical education and simple steps for setting technology aside and learning to notice the beauty of everyday life. HIGHLIGHTS The "common arts" philosophy: combining liberal arts (mind), fine arts (heart), and common arts (hands) to form the whole childHow a fourth grader's struggle with chain mail weaving taught him perseverance—a lesson he couldn't learn from academics aloneWhy students are "evangelizing" to their parents about sourdough starters, leather work, and vegetable gardeningThe difference between surface-level modern education and the deep, integrated approach of classical learningHow JP2 measures success: not through test scores, but through families saying "we wouldn't do it any other way"Why the school has no computers for students K-8, and how this prepares them better for the futureTeaching students to question everything—even the historical inaccuracies in famous paintings like Washington Crossing the DelawareThe reality of "dewiring" children's brains when they transition from public school to a slower, deeper pace of learningPractical first steps for parents: turn off the TV, read a story, look at the stars togetherWhy it's never too late to change your parenting approach, even if your older children had a different experienceCHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 00:15 - Homeschooling and Common Arts 01:02 - Student Engagement and Family Impact 01:30 - Traditional Values and Project-Based Learning 01:33 - Growth and Family Dynamics 02:49 - Hands-On Learning and Perseverance 05:27 - Founding a Classical School 08:25 - Classical vs. Modern Education 11:42 - Technology in Education 17:10 - The Role of Technology in Education 19:35 - Artistic License in Historical Representation 23:45 - Classical Education: Philosophy and Approach 27:00 - Integrating Classical Education into Modern Life 29:16 - Parental Guidance and Faith in Education 32:10 - Encouraging Ownership in Learning 35:05 - Practical Steps for Parents Interested in Classical Education 40:54 - Final Thoughts and Reflections RESOURCES MENTIONED Classical UClassical School WichitaSt. John Paul II Independent School (JP2)Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find the show. Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store or Google Play.

    34 min

  3. 14 JAN

    Classical Roots, Radical Simplicity: William on family, faith, and education (Part 1)

    What if the key to raising resilient, grounded children isn't found in more activities, more technology, or more structured programs—but in less? In this episode, William Durant—a father of seven and founder of St. John Paul II Independent School—shares how faith and family shape the way he lives and educates his children. He explains the principles behind his Catholic classical school and why simplicity matters at home. William also shares why his family chose a tech-free household—and how life without TV or cell phones has opened the door to more connection, creativity, and play. Highlights How a group of seven families launched a classical Catholic school during COVID out of a desire to have a voice in their children's educationWhy William and his wife Katie chose a no-TV, no-phone household and how they protect family time over organized sportsThe hybrid school model: Monday-Thursday in-person learning with homeschool Fridays to keep parents integral in their children's educationWhat "discipline out of love" really means and why clear boundaries help children become good human beingsThe three-legged stool of education: liberal arts (shaping the mind), fine arts (shaping the heart), and common arts (shaping the hands)Hands-on learning experiences at JP2: tapping maple trees, extracting honey from beehives, tanning deer hides, and growing vegetables in hoop housesHow reading aloud as a family—from The Hobbit to Little House on the Prairie—creates lasting memories and models what mattersWhy knowing who you are in God's eyes is the ultimate goal of childhood formationChapters 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 00:13 - Founding of St. John Paul II Independent School 01:37 - Educational Philosophy and Curriculum 05:18 - Balancing Homeschool and Traditional School 05:27 - Daily School Routine and Structure 07:58 - Family Values and Home Life 13:05 - Faith as the Foundation of Family Life 16:37 - Discipline and Parenting Approach 19:51 - The Role of Discipline in Parenting 24:41 - Intentional Parenting and Family Activities 26:20 - Classical Education and Its Importance 28:30 - Unique Aspects of J2 School 33:16 - Integrating Common Arts into Education 34:13 - Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser Resources Mentioned Books: The Hobbit by J.R.R. TolkienLittle House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls WilderThe Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. LewisSchools & Organizations: St. John Paul II Independent School (JP2)Classical UDiocese of WichitaThank you for listening! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find the show. Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store or Google Play.

    33 min

  4. 7 JAN

    A new school-life balance: Ali and Taylor’s Journey

    For many families, sending children to school full time at a young age isn’t the best fit. Some want a more active role in their children’s education, while others simply want more time together during childhood. In this week’s episode, moms Ali and Taylor share why they chose hybrid homeschooling and how it’s the perfect blend of structure and freedom for their families. If you’re curious about homeschooling but uncertain about doing it full time, this episode is for you. Highlights Why two families chose hybrid homeschooling over traditional schoolThe meaning and value of “slow living” for busy familiesHow hybrid models provide both structure and flexibilityOvercoming fears and misconceptions about homeschoolingThe role of community, accountability, and family involvementAdapting to challenges: juggling younger kids, changing routines, and embracing chaosEncouragement for parents considering alternative education pathsDebunking myths: Homeschooling isn’t about fear or sheltering—it’s about opportunity and freedomThe importance of sibling relationships and real-life learning momentsChapters 00:35 – Meet the Families: Ali and Taylor 01:41 – The Concept of Slow Living 02:45 – Choosing Hybrid Homeschooling 04:01 – Homeschooling Curriculum and Accountability 06:07 – Parental Involvement and Challenges 10:16 – Making the Decision to Homeschool 15:20 – Children’s Interests and Future Plans 18:59 – Screen Time and Family Activities 20:03 – Family Interests and Outdoor Activities 21:02 – Gardening and Teaching Moments 22:00 – Homeschooling and Family Involvement 23:21 – Challenges and Adaptations in Homeschooling 25:30 – Balancing Education and Family Life 27:52 – Embracing Chaos and Creativity 32:06 – Advice for Parents Considering Homeschooling 35:33 – Debunking Myths About Homeschooling 38:13 – Personal Growth Through Homeschooling 39:37 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources Mentioned Light Academy (the hybrid homeschool program discussed): https://www.lightacademywichita.com/Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find the show. Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store or Google Play.

    39 min

  5. 31/12/2025

    Get Schooled on Unschooling: How Cassie Breaks Traditional Rules

    Join us for a candid conversation with Cassie Tinsmon, founder of Lily Lake Play Cafe and Homeschool Collective who unpacks what it means to “unschool” your kids. Cassie shares how she came to embrace a curriculum-free approach and tap into her community to create a rich lifestyle of learning centered on her children’s unique talents and interests.  For Cassie, some rules are made to be broken—and a little risk is part of the equation, too. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler, just curious, or somewhere in between, you’ll find inspiration and practical wisdom in this episode. Highlights Cassie’s personal story: from a family of independent thinkers to launching Lily LakeThe vision and evolution of Lily Lake Play Cafe and Homeschool CollectiveWhat “unschooling” really looks like in practiceHow to build a supportive, flexible learning communityLetting go of perfection and embracing real-life learningThe role of parents as facilitators, not just teachersNavigating family, work, and education in a changing worldMyths and realities about socialization and nontraditional educationEncouraging risk-taking, critical thinking, and kindness in kidsPractical tips for parents considering homeschooling or alternative educationChapters 00:00 – Introduction to the Podcast01:07 – Cassie's Background in Homeschooling02:11 – Founding Lily Lake Play Cafe02:54 – The Concept of Lily Lake04:39 – Flexible Membership Model04:42 – Cassie's Parenting Style07:56 – Vivian's Role at Lily Lake09:53 – Homeschooling Journey14:43 – Unschooling Philosophy16:38 – Learning Through Real-Life Experiences19:03 – Interactive Learning at Lily Lake21:23 – Current Focus as a Parent21:44 – Struggles with Unschooling Expectations22:27 – Play Cafe Adventures23:23 – Aspiring Attorney Dreams24:30 – Campaign Finance Career26:21 – Creative Compliance26:21 – Critical Thinking and Rules27:57 – Community and Shared Spaces35:53 – Homeschooling Myths38:20 – Learning Through Real-Life Situations44:13 – Encouraging Risk-Taking in Kids44:35 – Importance of Play47:39 – Questioning Everything Resources Mentioned Lily Lake Play Cafe & Homeschool Collectivehttps://www.lilylakecollective.comTuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albomhttps://www.harpercollins.com/products/tuesdays-with-morrie-mitch-albomReverie Coffee Roasters (local coffee served at Lily Lake)https://reverieroasters.comThank you for listening! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find the show. Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store or Google Play. Own Your Education is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information, visit ictpod.net.

    49 min

  6. 24/12/2025

    From High School to Homeschool | Cheryl's Journey with Jordyn

    What if the best path for your child isn’t the one you expected? Today’s conversation explores the real-life journey of a family who made the leap into homeschooling during high school, navigating neurodiversity, family dynamics, and the search for the right educational fit. You’ll hear honest reflections, practical advice, and the surprising ways that flexibility and faith can transform a family’s story. Highlights The unexpected decision to homeschool a high schooler—and how it changed everythingNavigating a blended family and the unique challenges of parenting older kidsDiscovering and supporting a child’s neurodiversity (autism and ADHD)Overcoming doubts and finding the right curriculum through trial and errorBalancing work, homeschooling, and family life as a working momThe importance of community, socialization, and letting kids lead their own learningHow spiritual life coaching and setting boundaries shaped one parent's homeschooling journeyHonest advice for parents considering a big educational changeChapters 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction00:46 – Meet Cheryl and Her Blended Family01:28 – Challenges of Parenting Older Kids02:24 – Jordyn’s Homeschooling Journey Begins03:50 – Deciding to Homeschool Jordyn05:54 – Adjusting to Homeschooling07:22 – Finding the Right Curriculum10:13 – Balancing Homeschooling and Work11:45 – Struggles and Support in Homeschooling13:18 – Homeschooling Flexibility and Opportunities14:08 – Family Dynamics and Homeschooling17:08 – Spiritual Life Coaching and Parenting20:06 – Advice for Parents Considering Homeschooling21:10 – Looking Ahead: Jordyn’s FutureResources Mentioned Seton Home Study School – The first curriculum Cheryl and Jordyn tried for homeschoolingBJU Press Homeschool – The curriculum that ultimately worked best for JordynVELA – Supporting families in finding educational freedom and communityTake the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store or Google Play.

    35 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

Own Your Education™ is a weekly conversation for families doing education their own way. Education is more than schooling—it's a holistic lifestyle of freedom. Join us for real stories from brave parents building education that fits with their lives and their values.

Information

  • Creator
    VELA
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 VELA
  • Show Website
    Own Your Education™