The Intentional Homeschooler

Erika Sagert
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Education
  • Updated Biweekly

Are you a Christian homeschooling mom navigating the challenges of providing your children a great education while ensuring you’re creating fantastic childhood memories? Do you sometimes wonder if you’re cut out for the job or how you’ll manage homeschooling, homemaking, and a healthy life? This podcast is your lifeline to sanity as you juggle all of your responsibilities. Host, Erika Sagert, has been there! Now she spends her time supporting homeschooling parents so they can give their kids the best education with a Christian worldview. She’s a wife, teacher, and veteran homeschool mom of four. Each episode she’ll guide you in homeschooling, homemaking, and achieving a healthier life balance. Topics include things like lesson planning, homemaking tips, family well-being, and kid’s social calendars. You’ll get answers to common questions like “Am I doing enough,” and “How do I manage it all?” We share a fresh episode every other Thursday so make sure you subscribe. We want to be your home base for homeschooling because we want you to know that you’ve got this, moms!

  1. Jun 25

    050: The Five Priorities Every Homeschool Mom Should Know

    >>>>>>>>>>>>>>Book a FREE Coaching Call with Me: https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/schedule-appointment >>>>>>>>>>>>Download my FREE "Homeschool Reset:" https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/homeschool-reset Five Things That Matter Most in Homeschooling Are you worried you're not doing enough in your homeschool? Between curriculum choices, schedules, extracurricular activities, and endless advice online, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and wonder if you're focusing on the right things. In this episode, we're cutting through the noise and talking about the five things that matter most in homeschooling. These aren't necessarily the things that get the most attention, but they are the things that have the greatest impact on your child's education and your homeschool experience. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or unsure of your next step, this episode will help you refocus on what truly matters. In This Episode You'll Learn: Why your relationship with your child is more important than any curriculumHow character development should shape your homeschool prioritiesWhy consistency matters more than perfectionThe importance of teaching your children how to learn independentlyHow a clear homeschool purpose helps you make confident decisionsKey Takeaway Successful homeschooling isn't about having the perfect curriculum, the perfect schedule, or the perfect children. It's about faithfully focusing on the things that matter most and continuing to move forward one day at a time. To carry on the conversation, join my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571585061484 For daily insights and inspirations, follow me on Instagram or TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/the_intentional_homeschooler/ https://www.tiktok.com/@intentionalhomesc?_r=1&_t=ZT-93rcCy9UegY Or even more, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theintentionalhomeschooler

    10 min

  2. May 7

    049: The Simple Way to Build a Strong Math Foundation at Home

    >>>>>>>>>>>>>>Book a FREE Coaching Call with Me: https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/schedule-appointment >>>>>>>>>>>>Download my FREE "Homeschool Reset:" https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/homeschool-reset The Simple Way to Build a Strong Math Foundation at Home  In this episode of The Intentional Homeschooler Podcast, Erika talks about what actually builds long-term math success in a homeschool environment—and it may be much simpler than you think. If math feels intimidating in your homeschool, or if you’ve ever worried that you’re not “mathy” enough to teach it well, this episode offers practical encouragement and a grounded perspective on how strong math foundations are really built. Erika shares why consistency matters more than complicated methods, why slowing down is often the key to long-term success, and how structure and confidence can transform a child’s relationship with math. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:  Why strong math students are built through mastery—not speed  How daily consistency matters more than making math entertaining  Why review is not failure, but foundation building  The importance of both memorization and understanding in math instruction  How structure and routine help children feel more confident in math  Why you do not need to be a math expert to teach elementary math well  What real math success usually looks like behind the scenes Key Encouragement from This Episode:  Slow down enough for true understanding  Focus on steady progress instead of rushing ahead  Build confidence through consistency and review  Remember that strong foundations are often built quietly over time  Trust that you are more capable than you think Resources Mentioned:  Erika’s free Homeschool Reset — a guided pause for homeschool moms needing clarity, confidence, and a fresh start  Coaching services through www.theintentionalhomeschooler.comTo carry on the conversation, join my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571585061484 For daily insights and inspirations, follow me on Instagram or TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/the_intentional_homeschooler/ https://www.tiktok.com/@intentionalhomesc?_r=1&_t=ZT-93rcCy9UegY Or even more, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theintentionalhomeschooler

    17 min

  3. Apr 23

    048: You Don't Have to be the Perfect Teacher to Homeschool Well

    >>>>>>>>>>>>>>Book a FREE Coaching Call with Me: https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/schedule-appointment >>>>>>>>>>>>Download my FREE "Homeschool Reset:" https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/homeschool-reset You Don’t Have to Be the Perfect Teacher to Homeschool Well Episode Summary: Do you ever feel like you’re not a “good enough” teacher to homeschool your children? Maybe you don’t feel confident in certain subjects. Maybe lessons don’t always go the way you planned. Or maybe you’ve caught yourself thinking, “A real teacher would do this better.” In this episode, Erika shares a freeing truth: You don’t have to be the perfect teacher to homeschool well. Homeschooling is not about performing like a professional educator—it’s about leading your children with intention, building strong systems, and guiding their learning over time. If you’ve been carrying the pressure to “get it right,” this episode will help you refocus on what actually matters. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:  Why homeschooling is about more than just “teaching”  The difference between replicating school and leading your homeschool  How learning alongside your children can actually strengthen their education  Why relationships matter more than perfect lessons  How simple systems create consistency (even when days feel messy)  What truly leads to long-term success in homeschooling Key Takeaways:  You are not just a teacher—you are a guide, mentor, and leader in your child’s education  Your children don’t need perfection—they need consistency and support It’s okay not to have all the answers—learning together builds lifelong skills  Strong systems matter more than flawless teaching  Homeschooling success comes from faithful, steady effort over timeA Simple Mindset Shift: Instead of asking: “Am I a good enough teacher?” Try asking: “Am I leading my homeschool with intention?” That shift changes everything.

    11 min

  4. Apr 9

    047: The 10-Week Homeschool Reset: Decide Your Path and Take Action

    >>>>>>>>>>>>>>Book a FREE Coaching Call with Me: https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/schedule-appointment The 10-Week Homeschool Reset: Decide Your Path and Take Action Is your homeschool starting to feel scattered, overwhelming, or just… off track? You’re not alone. Many homeschool moms begin the year with a clear plan, but somewhere along the way, things shift. Motivation drops, routines fall apart, and it’s hard to know what to do next. In this episode, I’m sharing a simple and powerful rhythm that has helped me lead my homeschool with clarity year after year: the 10-week homeschool reset. Instead of trying to fix everything at once, you’ll learn how to pause, refocus, and move forward with confidence—one intentional season at a time. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:  Why homeschooling works better in 10-week seasons instead of year-long plans  How to recognize when your homeschool needs a reset  The simple Decide → Plan → Do framework  How to choose your most important focus for the next season  Practical ways to make small adjustments that create momentum  A real-life example of using a point system to bring motivation back in the spring  How to lead your homeschool with confidence instead of reacting to chaos A Simple Reminder You don’t need a perfect plan for the entire year. You just need a clear direction for the next season. Decide your path and take action. Try This This Week: Take 15–20 minutes and walk through these three steps: Pause and evaluate what’s working—and what’s not Decide your focus for the next 10 weeks Create a simple plan to support that focus Then take action. To carry on the conversation, join my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571585061484 For daily insights and inspirations, follow me on Instagram or TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/the_intentional_homeschooler/ https://www.tiktok.com/@intentionalhomesc?_r=1&_t=ZT-93rcCy9UegY Or even more, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theintentionalhomeschooler

    16 min

  5. Mar 26

    046: From Chaos to Calm: 5 Systems That Keep a Homeschool Home Running Smoothly

    >>>>>>>>>>>>>>Book a FREE Coaching Call with Me: https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/schedule-appointment Does your homeschool home sometimes feel chaotic? Between messy rooms, endless laundry, and figuring out meals, many homeschool moms feel like they’re carrying the entire household on their shoulders. But homeschooling and homemaking don’t have to compete with each other. In fact, when the home runs smoothly, homeschooling becomes much more peaceful. In this episode of The Intentional Homeschooler Podcast, Erika shares five simple homemaking systems that helped her homeschool home move from chaos to calm. These practical rhythms helped her children learn responsibility, contribute to the household, and develop life skills that continue to serve them today. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the daily demands of homeschooling and managing your home, this episode will encourage you with simple systems that create more peace and participation in your family. In This Episode You’ll Learn • Why homemaking is an important part of homeschooling • How simple household systems can reduce chaos in your home • How to create a chore system that encourages kids to contribute • A practical laundry rhythm that prevents piles of laundry from taking over your home • Why getting kids involved in cooking builds lifelong skills • How quick daily resets can keep your home from feeling overwhelming The 5 Homemaking Systems Discussed 1. Kids Contribute to the Home Create simple zones of responsibility so children help maintain shared spaces. 2. A Morning Chore List Start each school day with basic chores and getting dressed to shift into school mode. 3. A Weekly Laundry Rhythm Each family member has a designated laundry day so laundry doesn’t pile up. 4. Get Kids in the Kitchen Teaching kids to cook from a young age builds confidence and practical life skills. 5. Daily House Resets Short midday and evening resets help prevent overwhelming messes. A Key Reminder for Homeschool Moms Homeschool homes that feel peaceful aren’t built on perfection. They are built on systems and participation. When children learn to cook, clean, organize, and contribute to the household, they are learning skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives. To carry on the conversation, join my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571585061484 For daily insights and inspirations, follow me on Instagram or TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/the_intentional_homeschooler/ https://www.tiktok.com/@intentionalhomesc?_r=1&_t=ZT-93rcCy9UegY Or even more, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theintentionalhomeschooler

    15 min

  6. Mar 12

    045: Living in the Tension: Strength, Surrender, and Homeschooling

    >>>>>>>>>>>>>>Book a FREE Coaching Call with Me: https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/schedule-appointment Living in the Tension: Strength, Surrender, and Homeschooling The Intentional Homeschooler Podcast with Erika Sagert Many homeschool moms love structure. We love plans, organized binders, and the confidence that comes with knowing exactly what comes next. But homeschooling has a way of revealing something deeper: Our plans matter — but they are not ultimate. In this episode, Erika shares a personal story about a surprisingly simple decision—stopping straightening her hair and letting it go curly—and how that moment revealed a deeper lesson about control, strength, and surrender. Because sometimes the strongest homeschool moms are not the ones holding everything together tightly. They are the ones who know when to open their hands and trust the Lord. This episode explores the tension between intentional planning and faithful dependence on God, and how learning to live in that tension can bring both peace and clarity to your homeschool journey. In This Episode • Why structure-loving homeschool moms often struggle with letting go of control • The difference between something being unorganized and something being wrong • How determination can become unhealthy pressure if we grip too tightly • Why curriculum, schedules, and plans cannot ultimately guarantee success • How God often grows character and patience through unexpected disruptions • A healthier definition of strength in the homeschool journey • What it looks like to practice faithful dependence on the Lord while still being intentional Key Scriptures Discussed 1 Samuel 16:7 “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” Proverbs 16:9 “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Psalm 127:1 “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.” James 4:13–15 A reminder that we do not control tomorrow. Galatians 6:9 “Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Isaiah 30:21 “Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it.’” 2 Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Key Takeaways for Homeschool Moms 1. Appearance is not the same as faithfulness. Your homeschool may not always look polished, but God is working in the hearts of your children. 2. Determination is a gift — but control is exhausting. Structure helps, but gripping too tightly leads to burnout. 3. Curriculum is a tool, not your security. God is the one building your child’s life and character. 4. Homeschooling is a long climb. The goal is not perfect days, but steady obedience over years. 5. True strength is confident dependence on the Lord. Planning and trusting God are not opposites — they work together. A Question to Reflect On This Week Where might you be gripping too tightly in your homeschool? What would it look like to plan faithfully — while leaving room for God to direct your steps? To carry on the conversation, join my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571585061484 For daily insights and inspirations, follow me on Instagram or TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/the_intentional_homeschooler/ https://www.tiktok.com/@intentionalhomesc?_r=1&_t=ZT-93rcCy9UegY Or even more, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theintentionalhomeschooler

    12 min

  7. Feb 26

    044: Strong Writers Start Here: Why Handwriting and Grammar Matter More Than You Think

    >>>>>>>>>>>>>>Book a FREE Coaching Call with Me: https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/schedule-appointment We all want our children to become confident, capable writers. But writing can feel like one of the hardest subjects to teach — especially if you don’t feel confident in it yourself. The truth? Strong writing doesn’t begin with essays or creative prompts. It begins with foundations. In today’s episode, we’re talking about why handwriting and grammar are essential building blocks for effective writing — and how the right curriculum can bring clarity, structure, and confidence to your homeschool. If writing has felt overwhelming, this episode will help you step back, simplify, and start where it truly matters. In This Episode, We Discuss: 1) Why Handwriting Comes First How handwriting strengthens brain development and memoryWhy automatic letter formation reduces cognitive loadThe connection between handwriting, spelling, and sentence awarenessHow strong handwriting builds writing confidenceHandwriting isn’t about perfection — it’s about fluency. 2) Why Grammar Matters How grammar brings clarity to communicationWhy sentence structure improves accessibilityThe role grammar plays in academic and professional settingsHow grammar increases impact and influence in writingGrammar gives students control over language — and that control builds confidence. 3) Why Structure Changes Everything Once handwriting is automatic and grammar is understood, students are finally ready to write with purpose. Erika shares why she recommends: Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) A step-by-step writing curriculum that teaches structure and style from elementary through high school.The Lost Tools of Writing An advanced writing program that strengthens critical thinking, reasoning, and persuasive writing skills for older students.IEW teaches students how to write. Lost Tools teaches them how to think through writing. Key Takeaway Strong writing doesn’t start with essays. It starts with: Automatic handwritingClear understanding of grammarStructured instructionWhen we give our children the right tools, writing becomes less stressful — and far more effective. To carry on the conversation, join my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571585061484 For daily insights and inspirations, follow me on Instagram or TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/the_intentional_homeschooler/ https://www.tiktok.com/@intentionalhomesc?_r=1&_t=ZT-93rcCy9UegY Or even more, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theintentionalhomeschooler

    14 min

  8. Feb 12

    043: Curriculum Clarity: Making Decisions Without Losing Confidence

    >>>>>>>>>>>>>>Book a FREE Coaching Call with Me: https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/schedule-appointment 1) Curriculum is a tool, not a teacher Curriculum doesn’t educate your child — you do. It supports you, provides structure, and offers guidance, but it’s not the boss of your homeschool (and it is definitely not a measure of your worth). 2) Start with the child and the season you’re in Before reviews, before Facebook, before the cart… ask: Who is this child right now?What season are we in as a family? Capacity matters — yours and your child’s — and choosing what fits this season is wisdom, not “lowering the bar.”3) Overthinking comes from too many options More information eventually stops helping and starts fueling anxiety. Confidence doesn’t come from researching forever — it comes from choosing and moving forward. 4) Curriculum is adjustable, not permanent Choosing a curriculum is not a lifelong contract. You can adjust, supplement, set parts aside, or change course if it truly isn’t working. Thinking in 8–10 week blocks gives you clarity without feeling trapped. 5) Sometimes overthinking is really fear Fear of getting it wrong. Fear of falling behind. Fear of being judged. But homeschooling was never about controlling every outcome — it’s faithful stewardship, daily obedience, and steady presence. 6) A personal reflection on peace and intention Peace doesn’t come from having everything figured out — it comes from moving forward with intention. Some of the sweetest homeschool growth happens with imperfect curriculum and strong connection. Practical Action Step (Do This This Week) Choose one subject — just one — and ask: “Is this serving our homeschool right now?” If it mostly is: commit for the next 8–10 weeksStop tweaking and comparingObserve your child (not social media)Let clarity grow with time and consistencyKey Takeaway Curriculum does not need to carry the weight of your homeschool. You don’t need to master everything. You don’t need to do this perfectly. You need clarity, consistency, and the courage to move forward. You’re not behind. You’re building something — step by step. To carry on the conversation, join my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571585061484 For daily insights and inspirations, follow me on Instagram or TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/the_intentional_homeschooler/ https://www.tiktok.com/@intentionalhomesc?_r=1&_t=ZT-93rcCy9UegY Or even more, subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theintentionalhomeschooler

    12 min
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6 Ratings

About

Are you a Christian homeschooling mom navigating the challenges of providing your children a great education while ensuring you’re creating fantastic childhood memories? Do you sometimes wonder if you’re cut out for the job or how you’ll manage homeschooling, homemaking, and a healthy life? This podcast is your lifeline to sanity as you juggle all of your responsibilities. Host, Erika Sagert, has been there! Now she spends her time supporting homeschooling parents so they can give their kids the best education with a Christian worldview. She’s a wife, teacher, and veteran homeschool mom of four. Each episode she’ll guide you in homeschooling, homemaking, and achieving a healthier life balance. Topics include things like lesson planning, homemaking tips, family well-being, and kid’s social calendars. You’ll get answers to common questions like “Am I doing enough,” and “How do I manage it all?” We share a fresh episode every other Thursday so make sure you subscribe. We want to be your home base for homeschooling because we want you to know that you’ve got this, moms!

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