Beyond The Schoolhouse: Discovering The Best of Public, Private, Homeschool & Alternative Education

Sarah McCubbin
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Welcome to Beyond the Schoolhouse—discovering the best of public, private, homeschool, and alternative learning. Join your host Sarah McCubbin as we explore the many ways kids learn—inside classrooms, at the kitchen table, online, and beyond. Each week you’ll hear conversations with parents, educators, authors, entrepreneurs, and education leaders who are reimagining what learning can look like. My goal is to inspire and equip you with stories, strategies, and resources so you can make the best education choices for your family right now.

  1. 5d ago

    The Future of Education: How EdTech and AI are Changing the Game with Karim Kuperhause

    Learn how Karim Kuperhause creates effective educational resources for schools and ed tech companies. See his approach here. This episode of Beyond the Schoolhouse features an introduction to Kareem Cooperhouse, a professional with extensive experience bridging the gap between classroom needs and educational technology. We examine his specific methods for building tools designed to support teachers and administrators. If you are interested in ed tech development, you will gain insight into how to design better educational resources. We discuss his history of collaborating with various institutions to improve student learning outcomes and operational efficiency within the school system. Subscribe for weekly educational leadership breakdowns, and comment below on which industry topics you want us to cover next. Karim is a thought leader in education and runs an education accelerator through HierLearning.com He is also the author of The Great Unlock: How AI Is Making the Future of Learning More Human https://amzn.to/4x6cXMf Join us as we talk about: The true definition and scope of edtech inside and outside the classroomWhy only a small fraction of edtech solutions directly improve student outcomesHow parents can set clear expectations and use metrics to evaluate learning toolsThe challenge of student motivation and the potential of AI-powered personalized learningThe importance of co-design, open communication, and adaptability in education decisions To connect with Sarah, visit SarahMcCubbin.com

  2. Jul 29

    Homeschool High School: Finding Resources, and Fostering Independence with Kym Kent

    Thinking about homeschooling your child through high school? In this episode, Kym Kent shares practical advice and addresses common concerns for parents navigating the high school years at home. Why homeschooling through high school is not as daunting as it seems How to tap into resources, dual enrollment, and affordable learning opportunities The critical role of community and how to find or create your support network Strategies for motivating teens and aligning academics with real-world goals Addressing the “failure to launch” concern and setting your child up for post-graduation success Connect With Kym! website:  https://extendhomeschool.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ExtendHomeschool Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/extendhomeschool/ Connect with Sarah: sarah@tenminutemomentum.com

  3. Jul 7

    Raising Children for Greatness: The Blue Manor Academy Approach

    In this episode, Britton LaTulippe shares his innovative approach to education through Blue Manor Academy, emphasizing character, leadership, and the subjects of greatness. Discover how his model integrates traditional elite prep school principles into an online platform to cultivate future leaders. Learn More About Blue Manor: https://www.bluemanoracademy.com/?via=sarah Keywords: education, leadership, character, prep school, online schooling, Blue Manor Academy, raising children, greatness, homeschooling, character development Key Topics The concept of raising children for greatnessThe difference between traditional prep schools and Blue ManorThe role of character and leadership in educationThe monitorial system and student-led authorityThe importance of teaching wisdom and virtueThe integration of body, mind, and spirit in schoolingThe history of elite families and their educational principlesThe practical application of leadership training for childrenThe online platform and curriculum of Blue ManorThe importance of family and community in education Chapters 00:00Introduction to Britton LaTulippe and Blue Manor Academy 06:58Defining Elite Prep Schools and Their Purpose 13:11The Importance of Character and Leadership in Education 18:16Subjects of Greatness: Family, Wealth, and Leadership 23:33The Monitorial System: Student-Led Leadership in Education 28:33Leadership in Action: Student-Led Initiatives 30:59The Importance of Experience in Leadership 36:24Foundations of Leadership Education 38:43Evolving Educational Philosophy 44:57Connecting with Blue Manor Academy

    Raising Children for Greatness: The Blue Manor Academy Approach

  4. Jun 30

    Homeschooled for 13 Years: My Son's Take On His Education

    In this episode, Sarah sits down with her oldest son, Ian, who completed all 13 years of K–12 as a homeschooler. As a recent college graduate and now a software developer, Ian brings an honest perspective on the strengths, challenges, and surprises of homeschooling. Timestamps & HighlightsWelcome and Introductions Meet Ian, a 23-year-old homeschool graduate, and get a brief overview of his educational path 00:00.Educational Journey Breakdown Details about micro schools, co-ops, and early charter school experiences 01:09.How Homeschooling Compares Ian reflects on the diversity of his path versus traditional and public schooling 02:36.Early Memories of Homeschooling Learning to read and the challenges and victories along the way 03:01.Socialization in Homeschooling Honest talk about making friends, social growth, and the unique homeschool “culture” 09:21 12:01.A Typical Homeschool Day Ian shares his daily structure—and why he loved finishing early 06:11.Role of Co-ops & Micro Schools How these enriched his studies, especially in high school 07:35.Exploring Interests and Career Skills The flexibility of homeschooling allowed Ian to pursue computers, video games, and eventually software development 15:10 16:00.Transitioning to College Early college credits, academic prep, and the importance of learning independence 18:10.Homeschool Weaknesses Challenges with advanced math and how a great college teacher made the difference 20:13.Imposter Syndrome in College Navigating feelings of inadequacy and switching majors 24:29.What Parents Get Right—and Worry Too Much About The vital importance of writing, advice for parents, and tips for teens feeling behind 28:12 29:27.Would He Homeschool His Own Kids? Ian offers practical perspective on why he’d choose homeschooling for his future family, with caveats about outsourcing advanced classes 33:24.Episode TakeawaysHomeschooling brings unique freedoms and challenges—embracing both is key.Socialization happens, but entering new environments can bring new learning curves.Writing is a critical skill that pays dividends in every subject and career field.Parents don’t have to be “experts”—they are uniquely equipped to guide their children.Don’t be afraid to fail and try new things, especially in high school—this builds resilience for adulthood.Outsourcing upper-level subjects or utilizing co-ops/micro schools can round out a homeschool education.Listen to Beyond The Schoolhouse on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

  5. Jun 10

    How a Tragedy Led a Teacher to Start Homeschooling Her Children

    In this episode, Join Sarah McCubbin as she talks with Christy Serra-Gandara, a former teacher turned homeschool parent, about the realities, challenges, and rewards of homeschooling after leaving classroom teaching. In this candid discussion, they dive into what really changes when a teacher chooses to educate her own children at home. Why Christy decided to leave classroom teaching and homeschool her kidsHow being a teacher both helped and complicated her transition to homeschoolingThe biggest differences between school learning and homeschooling—motivation, structure, and flexibilityDealing with misconceptions teachers and others have about homeschool familiesWhat has changed in homeschooling since the early 2000s, and advice for parents considering the switch Connect with Christy at HappyHiveHomeschool.com Timestamps: 00:00 Leaving school to homeschool05:15 Transitioning from school to homeschool 06:39 Teaching kids to read at home 10:54 Motivation in Education 15:07 Finding a family routine 18:22 Homeschooling flexibility vs. classroom rigidity 22:13 Funny homeschool misunderstanding 23:49 Homeschooling and self-paced learning 28:11 Being foster parents and homeschoolers 29:31 Judgment on homeschooling in public 35:04 Kids' Career Paths and Interests 36:14 Kids' Educational and Career Paths 42:02 Homeschooling becoming more accepted 44:22 Changing views on education value 46:46 Homeschooling with family involvement 49:35 Life with a young child

  6. May 8

    Building Learning Pods and Alternative Education Communities with Jean Lee

    In this episode, Sarah McCubbin sits down with Jean Lee, a leading voice in alternative education, to discuss the rise of learning pods, their structure, and how to start your own learning community. With over 100 students engaged in her Indianapolis-based pod, Jean Lee shares practical advice, her accidental journey into pod-creation, and how these innovative learning environments can support students and families. To Connect With Jean, visit TheAcademyofChaos.com Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & Why There’s Never a Perfect Time to Start00:23 – What are Learning Pods?01:23 – The Difference Between Co-ops, Micro Schools, and Learning Pods03:31 – Broad Age Ranges: How to Manage Mixed-Ability Groups04:47 – Skill-Based Placement & Teaching to the Highest Level08:14 – The Accidental Beginning: From BizTown to Full-Fledged Learning Pod10:59 – Class Structure, Collaboration with Other Instructors, and Foreign Language12:13 – Enrichment vs Academics: How Pods Differ from Micro Schools14:00 – The Benefits of Large Groups and Project-Based Learning16:01 – Are Learning Pods Common? Naming & Rigorous Academics17:29 – Adding Life Skills and Artist Studies19:23 – Legal Considerations: LLC vs Nonprofit22:05 – Advice for Starting Your Own Pod: Interest, Structure, and Commitment25:11 – Finding and Building Relationships with Community Spaces28:00 – Navigating Solo Leadership, Backup Plans, and Flexibility32:16 – Reciprocity, Supporting Community Partners, and Mindset for Success35:12 – Final Wisdom: Just Start and Build as You Go

  7. Apr 27

    AI in Education: The Pros and Cons of Technology | Shiv Sharma of AstralTutor.com

    Curious about AI for homeschoolers? In this episode, Sarah McCubbin and Shiv Sharma of AstralTutor.com discuss the realities, benefits, and common concerns around AI-powered education. Initially, like many, I was skeptical about how artificial intelligence could genuinely help my children with math specifically. But after experiencing an AI tutor firsthand, my perspective completely shifted. My kids not only enjoyed using it but also started thinking differently about problems, showcasing the surprising potential of this future tech. --Why many parents are skeptical about AI math tutors—and what changes their minds --The difference between using AI to build skills vs. just getting answers -How Astral Tutor creates personalized math lessons and keeps students focused -The potential of AI for homeschool groups, micro schools, and independent learners -Where education could go in the next 5-10 years as AI tools become more common Learn More About Astral Tutor https://www.astraltutor.com/?utm_source=influencer&utm_medium=beyondtheschoolhouse_podcast&utm_campaign=ten_minute_momentum&utm_content=podcast_interview Get Resources For Your Homeschool and Co-op https:www.schoolmaking.com https:www.pallascenter.com https:www.tenminutemomentum.com

  8. Apr 16

    Challenges and Conflicts in Homeschool Co-ops with Doreen Browning

    This conversation with Doreen Browning delves into the importance of policies for homeschool groups and the role of consultants in guiding and supporting these groups. It covers key policies, challenges, misconceptions, enforcement, development, facility policies, and the process of consulting with homeschool groups. Takeaways Importance of PoliciesConsulting for Homeschool Groups Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Homeschool Group Policies05:18 Challenges and Misconceptions About Policies13:37 Developing Comprehensive Policies and Procedures21:40 Facility Policies and Importance of Stewardship28:04 Consulting with Homeschool Groups

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About

Welcome to Beyond the Schoolhouse—discovering the best of public, private, homeschool, and alternative learning. Join your host Sarah McCubbin as we explore the many ways kids learn—inside classrooms, at the kitchen table, online, and beyond. Each week you’ll hear conversations with parents, educators, authors, entrepreneurs, and education leaders who are reimagining what learning can look like. My goal is to inspire and equip you with stories, strategies, and resources so you can make the best education choices for your family right now.

Information

  • Creator
    Sarah McCubbin
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Sarah McCubbin