Ex-Homeschoolers Club

Jacob Gooden
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  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to the Ex-Homeschoolers Club! This is the place where we talk about the Good, Bad, and Ugly of growing up inside the homeschool world. Each episode showcases personal stories and experiences around social development, religious influence, family dynamics, education gaps, identity formation, and rebuilding community in adulthood. Whether homeschooling shaped your life in helpful ways, harmful ways, or something in between, this show welcomes the full spectrum of experiences.

  1. MAR 6

    Leaving Evangelical Homeschool Culture Behind

    Subscribe to Un•Religiously on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UnReligiously What happens when a homeschooled teenager raised in a deeply evangelical environment suddenly enters a community college classroom filled with new ideas, identities, and worldviews? In this episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I'm sitting down with YouTuber Lauren Howe, creator of the Un•Religiously channel, to talk about growing up homeschooled in a highly religious environment and navigating the massive culture shock of entering public education and college. Lauren shares how her family originally started homeschooling due to learning challenges like ADHD, but over time became immersed in the evangelical homeschool culture of the early 2000s. She reflects on everything from joking that school buses were “prison buses” as a kid to grappling with evolution, gender identity, and even yoga classes for the first time in college. The conversation explores both the benefits and drawbacks of homeschooling, the influence of homeschool culture beyond parents themselves, and the complicated process of reconciling faith with new perspectives. Chapters 00:00 Sneak Peek 00:50 Welcome to the Ex-Homeschoolers Club 01:52 Lauren’s Background 04:09 Is Public School Really That Bad? 07:11 Homeschool Culture Influence 08:35 Homeschooling Pros and Cons 10:27 What Parents Did Well 11:51 Testing Out and Dual Enrollment 13:43 Transition and Socialization 17:03 Faith vs Evolution 20:45 Yoga and Moral Panic 22:48 Four Year College Next 24:18 Pop Culture Catch Up 26:59 College Culture Shock 27:53 Hiding Homeschool Roots 29:27 Spotting Fellow Homeschoolers 30:16 Unreligiously Channel Mission 33:06 Deconstruction First Dominoes 37:26 Fear Silence And Fallout 40:09 Seeing Prayer As Love 43:00 Catching Up On Pop Culture 45:20 Homeschooling X Factor 47:38 Advice For New Homeschoolers 51:51 Religious Liberty Commission Warning 53:26 Final Thanks And Wrap Connect with Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.com

    54 min

  2. FEB 20

    A Public School Teacher's Honest Take on Homeschooling

    Want to be alerted when new episodes drop? Join the newsletter: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/ In this episode of Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I sit down with my cousin Amanda, a second-grade public school teacher with 13 years of classroom experience, to explore education from the “dark side.” Haha! Amanda shares what it’s really like inside today’s public schools: what works, what’s frustrating, and what’s changed over the last decade. From student teaching stories to advocating for kids who need services, she offers an honest look at the realities teachers face, including funding challenges, inclusion classrooms, and navigating parents who are (and aren’t) involved. We also talk candidly about homeschooling; the myths, the shifts in perception, and the surprising reality that even a public school teacher might consider homeschooling her own children. Key Points Why Amanda believes second grade is the “sweet spot” What student teaching really looks like (including full classroom takeover)How public education has shifted in the last 13 yearsThe reality of funding and where resources actually goWhy parental involvement makes a massive differenceThe biggest myth Amanda had about homeschoolingWhy she’s now reconsidering homeschooling for her own kidsWhat kids actually remember about school (hint: not the standards)If this episode hit home, share it with a parent, teacher, or anyone who's ever wondered what's really going on in our schools. Leave a comment and tell Jacob what landed for you. Connect with Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.comChapters 00:00 Why She Loves Teaching the Little Ones (Kinder–3rd Vibes) 00:42 Growing Up Public Schooled: Favorite Teachers & Loving School 02:40 When the ‘I Want to Teach’ Lightbulb Turned On 05:15 College Path + Getting Credentialed (5-Year Track) 06:36 Student Teaching Stories: Kindergarten, 6th Grade & Full Class Takeover 09:43 13 Years in the Classroom: Landing in 2nd Grade for Good 10:47 Why Second Grade Is the Sweet Spot: Independence & Interests Bloom 13:23 Which Grades Are ‘Best’ to Teach? (And Why Junior High Is a No) 15:19 Homeschooling From the Other Side: Myths, Social Life & Changing Views 18:19 Homeschool Reality Check: Isolation, Co-ops, and Different Kids Thrive Differently 20:00 How Public School Has Changed: Funding, Services, and Advocating for Kids 23:14 Fighting for Students Without Support at Home 23:40 Where the Money Goes: New Schools vs. Student Services 25:32 Is Public Education ‘Broken’? Advocacy & Community Support 26:21 Parents: Get Involved, Ask Questions, Know Your Rights 29:39 Beyond Parents: Voting, Bonds, and Showing Up to Board Meetings 32:03 Has a Public School Teacher Considered Homeschooling? 34:10 Homeschool Reality Check: Space, Structure, and the Mom/Teacher Blur 36:44 How Much Freedom Do Teachers Have? Standards, Pacing, and Customization 40:57 What Kids Actually Remember: Hands-On Learning Over Test Prep 42:36 Final Takeaway: Whatever You Choose, Stay Involved 44:29 Wrap-Up, Thanks, and Call to Action

    45 min

  3. FEB 6

    Why Traditional Schooling Didn’t Work for This Family

    Get on the newsletter: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/ What happens when homeschooling meets full-time travel, nature-based learning, and a family determined to break out of traditional education models? In this episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, Jacob sits down with Kayla Mathieu to explore her family’s roadschooling journey, how travel shaped her children’s education, and why reconnecting with nature has become a central pillar in their homeschooling philosophy. Kayla shares how her family successfully visited all 50 states while educating their children on the road, the challenges of adapting to different learning styles, and how stepping outside conventional classroom structures helped her kids thrive. She also discusses the importance of flexibility, community, and self-grace for families navigating homeschooling. From nervous system regulation through outdoor experiences to practical advice for parents considering homeschooling, this episode offers a thoughtful and balanced look at alternative education through lived experience. Quick Hits Kayla’s family traveled to all 50 states while roadschooling their childrenHow travel and experiential learning shaped her children’s educationAdapting homeschooling methods to accommodate different learning stylesThe role of nature in supporting emotional regulation and mental healthThe realities of transitioning from traditional education structures to flexible learningAdvice for parents considering homeschooling and finding educational approaches that fit their familyThe importance of homeschool communities and support networksConnect with Kayla Mathieu Wandering Past Limits Blog: https://www.wanderingpastlimits.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wanderingpastlimits Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:56 Meet Kayla: A Homeschooling Journey Begins 01:18 Challenges in Traditional Schooling 10:44 A Turning Point: Deciding to Homeschool 11:46 First Year of Homeschooling: Learning the Ropes 14:52 Finding the Right Curriculum 19:32 Integrating Travel with Learning 21:10 Revolutionary War History and East Coast Travels 21:54 Navigating ADHD and Autism in Homeschooling 22:45 Socialization and RV Homeschooling Groups 26:02 Favorite Travel Destinations 27:12 Individualized Homeschooling Approaches 29:24 Reconnecting with Nature 34:00 Advice for New Homeschooling Families 36:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.com

    37 min

  4. JAN 23

    Why Homeschooling Needs Accountability...and What We Can Do About It

    In this episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I'm sitting down with Tess Ulrey, Executive Director of the Coalition for Responsible Home Education (CRHE). Tess shares her experience growing up homeschooled across multiple countries, transitioning in and out of public, private, and international schools, and how those experiences shaped her work advocating for homeschool children today. Together, they unpack the privilege embedded in homeschooling, the blurry lines between homeschooling and unschooling, the challenges many homeschool alumni face in college and adulthood, and why responsible oversight matters—not to punish families, but to protect kids. This conversation explores the good, the bad, and the uncomfortable realities of homeschooling, including abuse, neglect, and the gaps that exist in state laws across the U.S. Key Topics Covered Tess’s experience being homeschooled in Michigan, Japan, and Germany Homeschooling vs. unschooling—and why the line is blurrier than ever The role of privilege in homeschooling decisions Transitioning from homeschooling to college and adult life Why many homeschool alumni hide their education background How public schools and community organizations fill critical support gaps The mission and work of the Coalition for Responsible Home Education The reality of abuse, neglect, and lack of oversight in homeschooling laws Current legislation impacting homeschool children in the U.S. 🔗 Resources & Links Coalition for Responsible Home Education: https://crhe.orgHomeschooling's Invisible Children Database: https://hic.crhe.org Connect with Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.comNewsletter: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/If you’re a former homeschooler, your story matters. Consider connecting with CRHE to support research, advocacy, and responsible policy that centers the lived experiences of homeschool alumni. Chapters 00:00 Coming Up 00:44 Meet Tess Ulrey 01:43 Tess's Homeschooling Journey 04:12 Transitioning Between Education Systems 08:14 Defining Homeschooling and Unschooling 10:17 Challenges and Benefits of Unschooling 14:09 College and Career: Post-Homeschooling Life 18:18 Nonprofit Work and Community Support 23:03 Public Schooling Decision for Tess's Kids 26:41 The Coalition for Responsible Home Education 33:05 How to Get Involved with CRHE 44:42 Conclusion and Call to Action

    48 min

  5. JAN 10

    Can You Really Homeschool Kids While Living in an RV?

    Join the newsletter here: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/ What happens when homeschooling leaves the house and hits the open road? In this episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I'm sitting down with Robin (aka BG Barnstormer), a former homeschooling mom who spent three years educating her kids while living full-time in an RV. Robin shares how a rotating pilot schedule led her family to homeschooling, how community support shaped their early years, and what really happens when learning differences, sensory needs, and emotional regulation collide in 350 square feet. Whether you’re a homeschool parent, an ex-homeschooler, or just curious about alternative education paths, this episode is packed with practical insight and lived experience. *Key Topics Covered* - Why a nontraditional work schedule pushed the family toward homeschooling - Building community through Classical Conversations and homeschool co-ops - Recognizing reading challenges, dyslexia, dysgraphia, and tracking issues - The power of audiobooks for kids with learning differences - Emotional regulation tools and “quiet corners” for kids (and adults) - How homeschooling in an RV forces flexibility and creativity - Why getting a diagnosis can be empowering, not limiting - Transitioning from homeschooling into online public school *Connect with Robin* - Website: https://bgbarnstormer.com - Blog Post Mentioned: https://bgbarnstormer.com/autism-spectrum/snowflakes-understanding-our-unique-self/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bgbarnstormer - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BGBarnstormer If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you! *Connect with Me* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclub Email me at exhsclub@gmail.com *Chapters* 00:00 Introduction to the Ex Homeschoolers Club 00:45 Meet Robin: The Homeschooling Mom on the Road 01:55 The Decision to Homeschool 04:34 Early Homeschooling Days and Community Building 11:50 Homeschooling Challenges and Learning Difficulties 28:36 Homeschooling in an RV: Strategies and Adaptations 31:53 Creating Quiet Spaces for Emotional Regulation 33:33 The Importance of Regulation Tools 49:02 Navigating Public Online Schooling 55:54 Experiential Learning Through Travel 01:00:07 Robin’s Book and Blog 01:03:16 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    1h 5m

  6. 12/23/2025

    A Happy Homeschool Holiday

    Wanna be on the podcast? Email your homeschool experience to exhsclub@gmail.com In this end of year episode I'm reflecting on the incredible year of conversations, stories, and community we've creating in the ex-homeschoolers club. Get a little sneak peek of what's coming in early 2026 and some of the ideas I've got percolating. Resources & Links - Email the show: exhsclub@gmail.com - Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/ - Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclub- Learn more about the Coalition for Responsible Home Education (CRHE): https://crhe.org Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back To The Ex-Homeschoolers Club 00:23 Thank You For Coming On The Journey 00:53 Happy Holidays 01:26 Sneak Peek of 2026 03:01 What's Changing in 2026 04:34 I Need Your Feedback 06:59 That's All Folks If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you!

    8 min

  7. 12/06/2025

    What Does A Public School Teacher Think of Homeschool Kids?

    Former public school teacher turned world traveler Patti Hunt joins Jacob to unpack what teachers really think about homeschoolers, why she eventually wished she homeschooled her own kids, and how road-schooling families are reshaping modern education. Patti also shares her journey from the classroom to RV life, and the powerful lesson that pushed her to stop waiting and start living. Key Points What 20 years in public schools taught her about kids, parents, and the systemMyths homeschoolers believe about public school — and what’s actually truePatti’s honest experience growing up in Philadelphia’s school systemHow teacher bias shows up in classrooms (even unintentionally)Why she now believes homeschooling can be powerful...but not for everyonePatti’s transition from teaching to entrepreneurship to RV travelThe road-schooling families she met and the hilarious moment she told one she was a public school teacherThe urgent lesson from her mother’s final days: don’t wait to live your lifePractical encouragement for parents who feel guilty about their choicesConnect with Patti YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InspiredTravelsWithPatti Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/10YFZMzAmwA305cI4W5Db5?si=1a0d269337d44814Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredtravelswithpatti/ If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.comTimestamps00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:21 Meet Patti Hunt: A Journey from Teaching to Traveling01:43 Patti's Teaching Career: From Business to Education04:28 Homeschooling vs. Public School: Myths and Realities13:46 Parental Involvement in Education16:28 The RV Life: From Classroom to Open Road19:21 Road Schooling: Educating on the Move22:00 Parental Guilt and School Choices22:26 Homeschooling Success Stories24:11 Rethinking College Education26:41 The Value of Hands-On Learning28:53 Exploring the United States33:47 Encouraging Spontaneous Travel39:12 Final Thoughts on Parenting and Education

    42 min

  8. 11/14/2025

    Was I Really the Dumbest Person in the Room? Growing Up Homeschooled

    This week on the pod, I sit down with long-time friend Hannah to unpack her deeply personal journey through homeschooling, neurodivergence, and self-discovery. Growing up in a chaotic Christian homeschool environment with six siblings, Hannah reflects on what worked, what didn’t, and how a lack of structure and support shaped her sense of self-worth. She opens up about entering adulthood feeling unprepared, navigating community college with massive anxiety, and later discovering she’s neurodivergent, a revelation that reframed her entire childhood. Now working in education and pursuing behavioral-tech certification, Hannah shares how therapy, understanding, and self-compassion have helped her rebuild confidence and reclaim her love of learning. This conversation is raw, insightful, and incredibly validating for anyone who felt “behind” growing up homeschooled. Key Points Big family life, AWANA memories, and mime team cultureHow chaos, parental conflict, and lack of structure shaped her educationFeeling “behind” and “dumb” the long-term effects of educational neglectNavigating college without foundational skillsDiscovering she’s neurodivergent at 30 & how therapy reframed everythingSensory issues, coping strategies, overstimulation, and emotional regulationHomeschooling today vs. “the bubble” we grew up in Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to the Ex Homeschoolers Club 00:32 Childhood Memories and AWANA Days 07:39 Homeschooling and Family Dynamics 12:10 Struggles with Education and Self-Worth 16:23 College Challenges and Career Choices 20:39 Discovering Neurodivergence and Therapy 29:42 Managing Overstimulation 30:30 Dealing with Everyday Frustrations 33:10 Understanding Neurodivergence 37:06 Homeschooling Reflections 43:29 Big Family Dynamics 46:39 Advice for Future Homeschoolers 49:48 Pursuing New Learning Opportunities 53:20 Homeschool Memories 55:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.com

    58 min
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About

Welcome to the Ex-Homeschoolers Club! This is the place where we talk about the Good, Bad, and Ugly of growing up inside the homeschool world. Each episode showcases personal stories and experiences around social development, religious influence, family dynamics, education gaps, identity formation, and rebuilding community in adulthood. Whether homeschooling shaped your life in helpful ways, harmful ways, or something in between, this show welcomes the full spectrum of experiences.

Information

  • Creator
    Jacob Gooden
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jacob Gooden
  • Show Website
    Ex-Homeschoolers Club