Homeschool Better Together

Emily Brown
  • 4.8 (693)
  • Education
  • Updated Semimonthly

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. 2d ago

    Stop Trying to Homeschool the "Right" Way

    Are you doing everything “right” in your homeschool… and still wondering if you’re doing it right enough? In this episode, I’m talking with Jeanette Pascua, a longtime homeschool mom of five, former high school theology teacher, and the editor behind much of what we create at Homeschool Better Together. Jeanette has been homeschooling for about a decade, and her oldest is now in high school. That means she has something I think every homeschool mom desperately needs: perspective from the other side of the elementary years. Her homeschool looks pretty different today than it did when she started. Her kids are scattered around the house doing different things, her older children have significant control over their schedules, and the whole day feels much more relaxed. But it didn't start that way. We talk about what it actually takes to help our kids grow into independent learners, why independence looks different for every child, and how Jeanette gradually handed over pieces of her children's education instead of throwing them into the deep end. And then we get into something I think almost every homeschool mom has wrestled with: the pressure to do homeschooling “the right way.” Jeanette is a Charlotte Mason homeschooler, and she talks honestly about the pressure that she puts on herself to follow this method the way others prescribe that it "should" be done. Sound familiar? We also talk about letting go of the perfect plan, what happens when subjects or books fall off the schedule, and the surprising reassurance that comes from watching an older child move toward high school. Because sometimes you don't realize your homeschool is working until you get far enough down the road to look back. What You'll LearnHow Jeanette gradually transferred responsibility for school from herself to her kidsWhy independence doesn't look the same for every childHow to invite your kids into homeschool planning without handing them the whole steering wheelThe pressure to follow an educational philosophy “correctly”Why you need to homeschool the kids actually standing in front of youWhat happens when a book, subject, or entire chunk of your beautiful plan gets droppedHow reaching the high school years can give you a completely different perspective on your earlier homeschool worriesWhy a homeschool that looks relaxed from the outside may actually have a lot happening underneathHow homeschooling has shaped Jeanette into a gentler, more patient momAnd, naturally, whether iced coffee counts as a homeschool snack Jeanette also shares what she loves most about working behind the scenes at Homeschool Better Together—including the books she discovers while editing our curriculum plans. And if you've ever looked at your homeschool plan three months into the year and realized, Wait…we're not actually doing that subject anymore, you're definitely going to want to hear this conversation. One of my biggest takeaways from our conversation is this: balance in a homeschool isn't static. We're constantly adjusting. Sometimes something needs more attention, something else needs to take a back seat, and that's okay. That's not failure. That's homeschooling. Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Homeschool Better TogetherWonder StudiesScience TogetherLanguage Arts TogetherMystie Winckler at Simply ConvivialLittle WomenThe Chronicles of Narnia

  2. Aug 11

    The Unexpected Joy of Learning Alongside Your Kids

    Homeschooling is never a straight line. Seasons change, families grow, circumstances shift, and the way we teach our children evolves along the way. In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, I talk with Betsy Cypress, one of the curriculum writers behind Homeschool Better Together, about what it means to truly learn alongside your children. Betsy shares her homeschool journey—from raising five children and graduating her oldest, to unexpectedly welcoming four additional students into her homeschool after the loss of a close friend. Through that season, she discovered even more deeply that homeschooling together isn’t just about making lessons easier—it’s about building relationships, creating community, and learning through life’s challenges. We also dive into the process behind creating Wonder Studies, including: why picture books can open the door to deeper learninghow curriculum can serve as a springboard rather than the finish linewhy conversations and connections often become the most meaningful parts of homeschoolinghow learning alongside your children changes the way you teachwhy consistency and loving kindness matter more than perfection Whether your homeschool has one child or many, whether you are adding students or watching them leave the nest, this conversation is an encouragement to embrace your current season and discover the wonder waiting there. What You’ll Learn:Betsy’s unique homeschool story and how her family adapted through major transitionsHow multi-age homeschooling can create connection and communityWhy learning alongside your children benefits both parents and kidsHow Wonder Studies help families explore topics through beautiful books and meaningful discussionEncouragement for homeschool moms who are trying to stay faithful in challenging seasons Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Wonder Studies https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/wonder-studies-annual-accessThrough Sand and Salt: A Tale of Discovery Across the Sahara by Elizabeth ZunonDeserts Wonder StudyThe William Hoy Story by Nancy ChurninBaseball Wonder StudyMagic Ramen: The Story of Momofuku Ando by Andrea WangJapan Wonder StudyAdventures with Waffles by Maria Parr

  3. Jul 28

    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

  4. Jul 14

    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

  5. Jun 30

    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/

  6. Jun 16

    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.

  7. Jun 2

    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!

  8. May 19

    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

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About

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/

Information

  • Creator
    Emily Brown
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    224
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Homeschool Better Together
  • Show Website
    Homeschool Better Together

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