The California Homeschool Podcast

cheapodcast

The California Homeschool Podcast, produced by the Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA), is your companion for navigating private homeschooling in the Golden State. We offer encouragement, practical tips, and insightful interviews to support families choosing private home education in California. Discover community and gain valuable knowledge on everything from legal requirements to flourishing in your private homeschool journey. Learn more at: www.cheaofca.org

  1. Aug 4

    Preserving Liberty: A Mid-Year Homeschool Freedom Briefing

    Angela Lasch sits down with Nathan Pierce of Family Protection Ministries (FPM) for a six-month check-in on homeschool freedom, what's happening in Sacramento, why laws passed in Nebraska and Connecticut matter for California families, and what to expect at Homeschool Freedom Day on September 12 at the Ronald Reagan Library. About Nathan Pierce and Family Protection Ministries Nathan was homeschooled K–12 in California and now homeschools his own eight children with his wife, Betsy (also homeschooled). He works full-time at FPM, which is celebrating its 40th year monitoring the California legislature and advocating for homeschool freedom. California Legislative Update The legislature is currently in recess and returns in early August. No major anti-homeschool bills are active right now, but FPM secured an amendment exempting private homeschool families from a bill mandating kindergarten–a proposal from the California Teachers Association that FPM has fought over 30 times. FPM is bracing for a wave of amendments once the legislature reconvenes. National Threats: Nebraska and Connecticut Two new state laws this year raised concern nationally: Nebraska: A new law blocks a family from withdrawing a child from public school to homeschool if a social services investigation has been opened based on an allegation, even an unsubstantiated one. Investigations can drag on for a year or more with no resolution. Connecticut: A new law requires background checks for all parents before they can begin homeschooling, regardless of whether the child was previously in public school. Homeschool Freedom Day, September 12 Where: Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley When: September 12, 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., with museum access (including a 250th-anniversary exhibit, in its final week) for the rest of the day Theme: Connecting America's 250th anniversary with the history and future of homeschool freedom Speakers: Zan Tyler (longtime homeschool freedom advocate), Will Estrada (HSLDA attorney), Robert Bortins (Classical Conversations), and Jennifer Avila (Director of District Outreach) Registration and details at https://fpmca.org/event/hfd2026-reagan-library/ Prayer Requests Wisdom and stamina as the legislature returns from recess and amendment activity picks up Nathan's family: a daughter marrying and a daughter starting college–both in August That no new homeschool-related legislation is introduced in August About CHEA The Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA) exists to advance the Kingdom of Jesus Christ by promoting private Christian home education as an outstanding educational opportunity, providing information, training, and support to the homeschool community, and protecting the God-given right of parents to direct the education and training of their children to the glory of God. Whether you're just starting to homeschool or have been at it for years, visit https://cheaofca.org/ for information on California homeschool law, resources, and encouragement for your homeschool journey. You'll also find details on CHEA membership and how to connect with the wider California homeschool community. Thanks for Listening Thank you for listening to the CHEA California Homeschool Podcast. If today's episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who's homeschooling or considering it. We'll see you next time. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call at thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call.

  2. Jul 7

    AI and Your Homeschool: Wisdom for a New Era

    Episode Description: Artificial intelligence is everywhere, in our phones, in our search engines, and increasingly in the tools our children will use for school, work, and life. For homeschool parents, that raises real questions. Is it safe? Will it shortcut my child's thinking? Could it actually help me? And how do we approach all of this with biblical wisdom? In this episode, Angela Lasch sits down with Nancy Manos, a longtime homeschool leader with more than twenty years of experience encouraging and equipping homeschool families. Nancy currently serves as the National Alliance Leaders Conference Director and has become a thoughtful voice on how Christian families can navigate technology with discernment. Together, Angela and Nancy explore the real pros and cons of AI for homeschool families, the wisdom and discernment our children need now more than ever, safe and practical first steps for introducing AI in your home, and the ways AI can actually lighten the load for busy homeschool parents. Whether you're cautious, curious, or already exploring these tools with your family, this conversation will leave you encouraged and equipped to lead your home with confidence in this new era. In This Episode: Nancy's heart for home education after more than two decades in homeschool leadership A simple explanation of what AI is and why it matters for the next generation The genuine benefits and the real concerns parents should weigh How to use AI as an opportunity to build discernment and critical thinking Safe, age-appropriate first steps for introducing AI to your children Practical ways AI can help homeschool parents with lesson planning, organization, and household management A word of encouragement for parents navigating this new era Connect with Nancy Manos:  WEBSITE: https://nancymanos.com PODCAST: https://nancymanos.com/podcast YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@nancymanos FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/mrsnancymanos  INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/mrsnancymanos LINKEDIN: https://linkedin.com/in/nancy-manos-az FREE RESOURCE: A Family Discussion Guide for Navigating AI with Wisdom and Discernment https://nancymanos.com/podcast Connect with CHEA of California: WEBSITE: https://cheaofca.org PODCAST: https://cheapodcast.podbean.com YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@cheaofca7027 FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/CHEAofCA INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/cheaofca If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a homeschool parent who needs encouragement today. Every share helps more California families homeschool with confidence. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call at thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call.

  3. Jun 2

    Brain Breaks Are Not Wasted Time: How Movement Helps Your Homeschooler Focus and Thrive

    You finally sit down to start school. Your lesson is planned, your coffee is hot, and your child cannot sit still. If that scene feels familiar, this episode is for you. Host Angela Lasch sits down with Heather Haupt, author of The Ultimate Guide to Brain Breaks and founder of Cultivated Learning, to explore a question every homeschool parent has wrestled with: Is all that wiggling really a problem? Heather brings a background in neuroscience to the conversation, and her answer may change the way you see your school day. Movement is not a distraction from learning. It is how God designed the brain to learn best. Heather was homeschooled herself and is now homeschooling her own five children, so she is not speaking from the outside looking in. She has lived this, and she gets it. In this episode: How being homeschooled and now homeschooling her children shapes the way Heather understands learning What a brain break actually is, and how it differs from simply letting kids run around What is happening inside the brain when a child gets up and moves during a lesson Encouragement for the mom who feels movement time is wasted academic time How to build brain breaks into your daily rhythm without losing control of your day The connection between movement and your child's emotional regulation Simple, practical brain breaks you can use today, even in a small space A preview of Heather's sessions at CHEA's Parenting & Homeschool Convention this July Closing encouragement: This podcast is a word of hope for the homeschool mom who is second-guessing herself today. Connect with Heather Haupt at Cultivated Learning: https://cultivatedlearning.org Meet Heather in person this summer. Heather will be speaking at CHEA's 41st Annual Parenting & Homeschool Convention, "Preserving Liberty," July 10 and 11, 2026, at Calvary Chapel Downey. This is where vision gets restored, friendships are deepened, and hearts are renewed. Register and find all the details here: https://cheaofca.org/annual-parenting-homeschool-convention Connect with CHEA of California. CHEA is California's go-to organization for homeschool families. From your very first questions about getting started to years into your homeschool journey, we exist to inform, equip, support, and protect your God-given right to direct your children's education.  Website: https://cheaofca.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CHEAofCA  Instagram: @cheaofca Subscribe and stay connected. The California Homeschool Podcast publishes once a month to encourage and equip you on your homeschool journey. If this episode encouraged you, the best thing you can do is subscribe right here on YouTube and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. It truly helps more California families find us. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Podbean: https://cheapodcast.podbean.com This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call #CHEAofCA #CaliforniaHomeschool #ChristianHomeschool #BrainBreaks #HomeschoolMom #HomeschoolTips #PreservingLiberty #HomeschoolConvention

  4. May 5

    The Homeschool Awakening. One Filmmaker's Journey into Home Education

    Celebrating one year of CHEA's California Homeschool Podcast! Caleb Price's path into homeschooling is anything but ordinary. Rock band, film school, a documentary with Kirk Cameron, and somewhere along the way, a family transformed. In this episode, Angela sits down with Caleb, homeschool dad of five, filmmaker, and founder of The Podcast Upload, to talk about The Homeschool Awakening, what homeschooling actually looks like in California, and why homeschool state organizations matter for families here. Caleb shares practical rhythms from his own home with five kids, what he thinks most people get wrong about California homeschoolers, and offers real encouragement for dads who feel like they are on the sidelines. He closes with a heartfelt word to any California parent who is curious about homeschooling but has not yet taken the leap. Connect with Caleb Price calebpriceproductions.com ThePodcastUpload.com Connect with CHEA of California Website: cheaofca.org CHEA's 41st Annual Parenting & Homeschool Convention, July 10 and 11, 2026, Downey, CA. Register at https://cheaofca.org/annual-parenting-homeschool-convention If you have been blessed by a year of the podcast, the best way to say thank you is to subscribe, share an episode with a friend, and leave us a review. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call

  5. Apr 2

    California Hispanic Families, You Are Not Alone: A Conversation with Ana Maria Bagnuoli

    If you are a Hispanic family in California wondering whether homeschooling is truly possible for you and whether it fits your culture, language, and faith, this episode was made with you in mind. Angela Lasch sits down with Ana Maria Bagnuoli, co-founder of Education by Design, a ministry dedicated to equipping Hispanic families to homeschool with biblical purpose and vision. Ana Maria's passion for this work is contagious, and her message is clear: you are not alone in this calling. In this episode: Who Education by Design is and why they exist to serve Hispanic homeschool families How homeschooling aligns with Hispanic culture, faith, and family values Encouragement for families who feel uncertain about whether they can do this The vision behind equipping parents to lead their children's education with a biblical purpose Resources mentioned: Education by Design: https://transitioneducation.net Education by Design Online Conference, April 10-11 — use code EDUCACA10 for 10% off: https://transitioneducation.net/conferencia2026 CHEA Annual Parenting & Homeschool Convention, July 10-11, Calvary Chapel Downey: https://cheaofca.org/annual-parenting-homeschool-convention CHEA Leadership Conference, July 9: https://cheaofca.org/annual-parenting-homeschool-convention/summer-leadership-conference CHEA is California's go-to organization for homeschool families. From your very first questions about getting started to years into your homeschool journey, we exist to inform, equip, and support you. If this episode blessed you, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a Spanish-speaking family in your community or church. Every share helps more California families homeschool with confidence and conviction. Until next time, keep pressing forward. The God who called you is faithful to equip you. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call at thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call

  6. Mar 3

    When Every Child is Different: Embracing Special Needs in Your Homeschool

    Have you ever wondered if you can really homeschool a child with special needs? Today's guest, Staci Morgan, is living proof that you can, and she's here to show you how. Staci is a homeschool mom of four with a master's degree in pediatric nursing, but she'll tell you her real education has come from homeschooling her children through a range of special needs. In this conversation with Angela Lasch, Staci shares the practical strategies, mindset shifts, and biblical truths that have carried her family through the unique joys and challenges of special needs homeschooling. This episode covers balancing academic and medical needs, navigating the hard days, avoiding comparison, finding community, and trusting God's design for your family. If you've ever felt overwhelmed or wondered if you're enough for this calling, this episode is for you. Resources: CHEA’s Special Needs Resources: https://cheaofca.org/special-needs-resources CHEA Defender and Warrior Memberships include two free special needs consultations: https://cheaofca.org/join-chea-membership CHEA’s Free Homeschool Essential Series events in Yucca Valley, Carlsbad, Sacramento, and San Jose: https://cheaofca.org/homeschool-essentials-series Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a homeschool family who needs encouragement today. #CHEAofCA #CaliforniaHomeschool #SpecialNeedsHomeschool #ChristianHomeschool #SpecialNeedsParenting #HomeschoolFamily #LearningDifferences #NeurodiverseHomeschool

  7. Feb 3

    Hearts Before Schedules: Creating a Love-Centered Homeschool

    Hearts Before Schedules: Creating a Love-Centered Homeschool About This Episode In this episode, host Angela Lasch speaks with Rachel Zwayne about one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of homeschooling: keeping your family's heart at the center of your educational journey. Rachel shares insights from her experience homeschooling five children while navigating the unique challenges of having a family engaged in full-time ministry. If you've ever felt torn between creating the "perfect" homeschool on paper and simply knowing and discipling your children, this conversation is for you. Guest: Rachel Zwayne Rachel Zwayne was born and raised in New Zealand. At age 14, her father's ministry (Ray Comfort / Living Waters) relocated to Southern California, where she eventually met her husband and became the mother of five children. Rachel has spent years encouraging other women in their roles as mothers, wives, and homeschoolers through her work as a leader and teacher of women's groups, and as a conference and retreat speaker. She has been married to Emeal ("E.Z.") for 29 years. They live in Southern California and are now enjoying being grandparents. Rachel's passion for supporting mothers continues through her online ministry, Joyful Mothers, where she encourages mothers and wives to love and serve their families. Connect with Rachel Instagram: @joyful_mothers Facebook: Joyful Mothers Website: www.joyfulmothers.net Why This Matters Homeschooling is more than academics; it's an opportunity to disciple your children and build a family culture centered on Christ. Rachel's message reminds us that the most essential "curriculum" is the one written on your children's hearts through your consistent, loving presence and leadership. Whether you're just starting your homeschool journey or you're years into it, this conversation offers perspective on what truly matters and how to keep that priority front and center even when life gets messy and complicated. CHEA Resources & Events Homeschool Essential Series – In March & April, join us in person in Southern and Central California to learn how to get started with homeschooling. Designed to equip and encourage homeschool parents just starting. Details will be published in our weekly newsletter soon. Not receiving the CHEA newsletter? Sign up on our website here.  You CAN Homeschool – New YouTube Series launching in January, running through June. Packed with encouragement and practical tips for families beginning their homeschool journey. Subscribe: CHEA's YouTube channel 2026 Annual Parenting and Homeschool Convention Theme: "Preserving Liberty" Location: Calvary Chapel Downey Dates: July 10 and 11, 2026 This is where vision gets restored, friendships are deepened, and hearts are renewed. Early Registration Dates: CHEA Members: February 9, 2026 (discounted rate) General Public: February 18, 2026 Learn more and become a CHEA member: www.cheaofca.org Share Your Thoughts Has this episode blessed your heart? We'd love to hear how you're implementing a hearts-first approach in your homeschool. Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with us on social media. Don't forget to subscribe to CHEA's California Homeschool Podcast and share this episode with a friend who needs this encouragement! Subscribe & Stay Connected Podcast: The CHEA California Homeschool Podcast is available on YouTube and on all major podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify. Website: www.cheaofca.org Social Media: Facebook and Instagram. Until next time, keep leading your family with vision, faith, and love. God bless you. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call

  8. Jan 6

    Defending Liberty: Nathan Pierce on Homeschool Freedom in California

    Episode Summary In this episode, Angela Lasch, Executive Director of CHEA, sits down with Nathan Pierce, Executive Director of Family Protection Ministries, to discuss the critical importance of homeschool advocacy in California. Nathan shares his 20-year journey monitoring state legislation, the 39-year history of Family Protection Ministries' work protecting parental rights, and how FPM partners with CHEA to defend homeschool freedom. With California's legislative session beginning in January, this conversation is essential listening for every homeschooling family who wants to understand the landscape affecting their right to educate their children according to their Christian values. Key Topics Covered Nathan Pierce's background and journey into advocacy work The detect, analyze, monitor, and intervene approach at Family Protection Ministries 39 years of legislative victories protecting homeschool freedom in California The evolving homeschool community and how challenges have changed over decades How FPM and CHEA partner to protect California's homeschooling families Predictable patterns and recurring threats to homeschooling What to expect as the California legislative session begins in January The strategic importance of Capitol Day and grassroots advocacy Nathan's concerns and hopes for the future of homeschool freedom in California Important Dates & Action Items Capitol Day 2025 Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025 Last Day to Apply: January 7, 2025 Visit https://fpmca.org/ for more information and registration This is your opportunity to make your voice heard at the State Capitol and stand alongside other homeschooling families advocating for parental rights and educational freedom. Resources Mentioned Family Protection Ministries Website: fpmca.org Connect with Nathan for the latest legislative updates, blog posts, and speaker requests CHEA Resources Website: https://cheaofca.org/ Blog Article: 'The History of Homeschooling in California' - Read our comprehensive overview of how homeschooling has evolved in California and the legal battles that have shaped our freedoms today   Book Recommendation Title: The Battle for Homeschool Freedom in California Author: J. Michael Smith Available in the CHEA Store This book provides essential background on the legislative fights that have protected our right to homeschool and why vigilance remains critical. Why This Conversation Matters Our freedoms as homeschooling families are not guaranteed—they require constant vigilance, informed engagement, and action. As we enter 2026, it's crucial to understand the history of homeschool advocacy in California, recognize the threats we face, and commit to being active defenders of parental rights. This podcast is part of CHEA's January emphasis on advocacy, reminding us not to take our freedoms for granted and to stay diligent in protecting the right to educate our children according to our Christian convictions. Get Involved Register for Capitol Day (Deadline: January 8) - Be the face of homeschooling in your district Subscribe to FPM Updates - Stay informed about bills affecting homeschooling at fpmca.org Read and Share - Explore the history of homeschooling in California on our blog and share with other homeschooling families Get the Book - Purchase The Battle for Homeschool Freedom in California from the CHEA Store to deepen your understanding of the fight for our freedoms Subscribe to the CHEA Podcast for more conversations equipping and encouraging California's homeschooling families. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call

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About

The California Homeschool Podcast, produced by the Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA), is your companion for navigating private homeschooling in the Golden State. We offer encouragement, practical tips, and insightful interviews to support families choosing private home education in California. Discover community and gain valuable knowledge on everything from legal requirements to flourishing in your private homeschool journey. Learn more at: www.cheaofca.org

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