BaseCamp Live

BaseCamp LIVE will equip you, the parent, educator, or mentor to climb the biggest mountains as you seek to shape young people to become exceptionally prepared, compassionate, and thoughtful human beings. Our guests are thought leaders, culture watchers, and educational experts who are seeing the benefits of a classical Christian education to form students into adults who can think critically, believe with courage, and serve compassionately.

  1. Raising Human Beings Not Human Doings with Joshua Pauling

    −1 D

    Raising Human Beings Not Human Doings with Joshua Pauling

    Modern education often promises clarity, efficiency, and measurable results. But what if those very strengths are quietly reshaping what we believe education is for? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Joshua Pauling to explore the subtle but powerful influence of what he calls the “tyranny of technique.” When systems, metrics, and methods take center stage, students can easily become outputs to manage rather than persons to form. Josh brings a thoughtful perspective shaped by years in public education, classical education, and his work launching a new hybrid classical school. Together, they reflect on how common educational practices can unintentionally erode relationships, diminish wonder, and narrow our vision of formation. But this conversation is not merely critical - it is deeply constructive. In this episode, you’ll hear: What Joshua Pauling means by the “tyranny of technique” and how it shows up in modern education How efficiency, grading systems, and metrics can subtly redefine what success looks like Why relationships, trust, and contemplation are essential to true learning The role of narration, oral assessment, and embodied practices in forming students What it looks like to resist a purely mechanistic model of schooling How Josh’s hybrid classical school is pursuing a more humane and restful vision of education Practical encouragement for parents and educators seeking to prioritize formation over performance This episode is an invitation to step back and reconsider our assumptions. For parents, educators, and school leaders alike, it offers a compelling reminder: education is not primarily about producing results, but about raising human beings. Show Notes: All Saints Classical Academy Are We All Cyborgs Now? Reclaiming Our Humanity from the Machine Writing Portfolio Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.com Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

    48 min
  2. How to Find and Train Classical Christian Teachers with Dr. Robert Jackson

    24 MARS

    How to Find and Train Classical Christian Teachers with Dr. Robert Jackson

    Where do classical Christian schools find their teachers, and how are they trained? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Rob Jackson to explore one of the biggest challenges facing classical education today, building a strong pipeline of teachers. As more schools launch and grow, many are realizing that traditional certification programs do not prepare teachers for the classical classroom. Instead, schools are looking for educators with a love of their subject, a commitment to wisdom, and a willingness to be formed through mentorship and experience. Dr. Jackson shares where schools are finding teachers today, including recent graduates, second-career professionals, homeschool parents, and experienced educators searching for a better model. The conversation also highlights the role of apprenticeship, mentorship, and ongoing training in helping teachers grow in both skill and confidence. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why traditional teacher certification often falls short Where classical schools are finding teachers today How mentorship and apprenticeship shape strong educators What schools are really looking for in a teacher Join us as we explore how schools are raising up the next generation of teachers and strengthening the future of classical Christian education. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.com Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

    44 min
  3. What is Classical Christian Education? Series with Dr. Michael Adkins

    17 MARS

    What is Classical Christian Education? Series with Dr. Michael Adkins

    In this next episode in the BaseCamp Live series exploring classical Christian education, Davies Owens welcomes Dr. Michael Adkins for a thoughtful conversation about what classical Christian education really is and why that question matters so much for families, schools, and the future of society. Dr. Adkins brings both historical depth and practical insight as he explains that classical Christian education is not primarily about training students to do more, but about forming them to become a certain kind of person. In contrast to modern models that often focus on utility, credentials, and workforce preparation, this conversation highlights an older and richer vision of education, one centered on truth, goodness, beauty, wisdom, and virtue. As part of this ongoing series, the episode helps listeners see that classical Christian education is not a trendy alternative or niche experiment. It is part of a much larger tradition that has shaped the West for centuries. Davies and Dr. Adkins trace the historical shift from a largely biblical and classical model of education to the progressive philosophy that reshaped modern schooling, showing how those changes affected not only academics, but also the way students understand freedom, authority, responsibility, and the purpose of life itself. This episode is both a defense of classical Christian education and an invitation to better understand its roots, its goals, and its lasting relevance in a modern world that often feels confused and disordered. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why classical Christian education is about formation, not just information How this episode fits into the larger BaseCamp Live series on classical Christian education Why modern education shifted from cultivating virtue to emphasizing utility How understanding the history of education helps families make wiser choices today What thinkers like W.E.B. Du Bois, Joseph Pieper, and others contribute to this conversation How classical Christian education helps students gain the clarity and cultural literacy needed to navigate today’s world If you have ever wondered whether classical Christian education is simply a trend, a niche alternative, or something much bigger, this episode offers a compelling answer. It is a reminder that education is never neutral, and that recovering a richer vision of learning may be one of the most important tasks before us. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.com Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

    46 min
  4. Alumni Interview with Neeya Toleman

    10 MARS

    Alumni Interview with Neeya Toleman

    In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens continues the alumni series with Neeya Toleman, a graduate of Coram Deo Academy in Texas who now works as an engineer helping develop major power transmission lines across the United States. Neeya shares how her classical Christian education shaped her ability to think deeply, communicate clearly, and tackle complex problems. From memorizing Scripture and presenting senior author projects to navigating small class communities and rigorous coursework, her experience formed habits that still guide her today in the demanding world of engineering and energy infrastructure. Along the way, Neeya reflects on the unique strengths of classical Christian education. She discusses the value of learning how to learn, the importance of strong relationships between teachers and students, and how schools, homes, and churches work together to shape faith and character. Her story offers an encouraging reminder that classical Christian education prepares students not only for the humanities but also for careers in fields like engineering, science, and technology. 🎧 Tune in to hear: • How a classical Christian education prepared Neeya for a career in engineering • Why learning how to think and learn matters more than specialized early training • The impact of close relationships with teachers and mentors in small school communities • How faith formation happened naturally across classes and conversations • Practical reflections for school leaders and parents investing in the next generation Whether you are a parent, educator, or school leader, Neeya’s story is a powerful example of what long-term formation can produce, Listen now and be encouraged by what happens when classical Christian education shapes a life. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.com Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

    42 min
  5. The Classical Science Classroom with Paul Laywell

    3 MARS

    The Classical Science Classroom with Paul Laywell

    In this episode of BaseCamp Live, host Davies Owens sits down with Paul Laywell, founder of Eureka Science Education, to tackle a lingering stereotype - classical Christian schools love great books, but struggle to do science with the same depth and rigor. Paul shares his journey from public school teaching to becoming a “one man science department” in a classical Christian school, and why he became convinced that science is one of the most integratable disciplines. Not by forcing a Bible verse onto every lesson, and not by stripping science down to formulas and memorization, but by teaching science as a story, with real people, real ideas, and real consequences. You will hear why Paul jettisoned most textbooks, how he uses history and philosophy to strengthen scientific understanding, and why families do not need to fear that a classical approach will “hurt” students headed for medicine, engineering, or other STEM-adjacent careers. In fact, Paul argues that what universities and employers need most are students who can think, reason, and ask good questions. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why “Bible verse on the board” integration can be a disservice to both Scripture and science How telling the history of science helps students remember, and understand, what they are learning A classroom example that starts atomic theory as a philosophical idea before it becomes a scientific construct Why you cannot “cover it all,” and why depth beats speed and volume in a science classroom Paul’s pushback on the myth that you need a STEM-school model to thrive in college science and engineering How schools can build a science program that holds together rigor, wonder, curiosity, and theological imagination A science classroom can be more than jam, cram, and forget. It can form students who love truth, pursue discovery with humility, and recognize God’s fingerprints in a world worth exploring. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.com Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

    39 min
  6. The Art of the Question with Mandi Gerth

    25 FEB.

    The Art of the Question with Mandi Gerth

    Good conversations with our children do not just happen. They require intentionality, attention, and the courage to ask questions that may take more than a few seconds to answer. In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens welcomes back Mandi Gerth to explore how the questions we ask shape not only daily conversation, but the long-term relationship we hope to have with our children as adults. Drawing on her experience as a teacher and parent, Mandi explains that a good question opens what she calls an “expectant vacancy.” The challenge is that we must be ready for what fills that space. Together, they unpack three kinds of questions parents can practice: Questions that check for understanding and invite narration, not just yes-or-no answers Follow-up questions that build intellectual habits, encouraging evidence, comparison, and thoughtful reasoning Big-idea questions that help children contemplate virtue, faith, and moral responsibility at every age Mandi also offers a wise reminder for parents of teens. Do not be shocked by what they say. Create a home where doubts and hard questions can be voiced safely. Ask follow-ups. Stay present. Keep pointing them toward truth. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why “How was your day?” rarely leads to meaningful connection How follow-up questions quietly form habits of wisdom Why big conversations are not just for upper school students How intentional dialogue today builds relationships that last for decades This episode is a practical and hopeful reminder that asking better questions is not about performance. It is about love, formation, and walking closely with our children as they grow. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.com Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

    41 min
  7. Training Life Skills for the Next Generation with Mitchell Slater

    18 FEB.

    Training Life Skills for the Next Generation with Mitchell Slater

    Students today need to be deeply formed to love what is true and beautiful, and they also need practical skills and confidence that comes from real life experiences they can carry into college, career, and beyond. In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Mitchell Slater, founder and CEO of Slater Strategies, to talk about entrepreneurship, risk, and why many students are not being prepared for real life as well as they could be. Mitchell shares his story of growing up homeschooled in Alaska, learning hard work through real responsibilities, and starting his first business at 17 because his parents gave him room to try and learn. Together, they unpack why failure is such a powerful teacher, why our culture fears it, and how schools can create safe environments for students to practice real-world problem solving. They also dive into Mitchell’s SMT program, which trains a small team of students to help tell their school’s story through marketing, communication, and community engagement, without handing students unrestricted tech or social media access. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why students need life prep, not just college prepHow parents can encourage kids to take healthy risks and learn from failureWhat “marketing” includes beyond social media, including storytelling, writing, newsletters, and campus experienceHow SMT works and why it can feel like a modern, dynamic version of the yearbook teamA simple shift in language that helps kids think like problem-solvers: “What problem do you want to solve?”You will leave with practical encouragement for how to help students become real world ready, with confidence rooted in faith, responsibility, and meaningful work. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group Wisephone by Techless ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.com Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

    40 min
  8. What is Classical Christian Education? with David Diener

    10 FEB.

    What is Classical Christian Education? with David Diener

    “What is classical Christian education?” sounds like an easy question, until you try to answer it. In this episode, Davies Owens is joined by Dr. David Diener, professor of education at Hillsdale College and executive director of the Alcuin Fellowship, to offer a clear, grounded explanation of what classical Christian education is and what it is not. They explore why this approach begins with the purpose of education, not just the methods, and how it aims to form students into a certain kind of human being, equipped to live well in this life and the next. You will also hear how classical Christian schools differ from many modern models that treat education primarily as a transaction for career readiness, and why “integration” matters more than adding spiritual elements onto an otherwise secular framework. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why the goals of education shape everything else, curriculum, culture, and classroom lifeHow classical Christian education connects belief and practice so formation is not an afterthoughtWhy “you have to see it” is often the best explanation, and what to look for when you visit a schoolHow this approach prepares students for a rapidly changing world, including AI, by prioritizing thinking, communication, and wisdomWhat distinguishes a truly classical and truly Christian school beyond slogans and aestheticsIf you have ever struggled to explain classical Christian education to a neighbor, a grandparent, or even yourself, this conversation gives language for what many families sense: this is not nostalgia, it is a living tradition that forms students for faithfulness, clarity, and courage. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group Wisephone by Techless ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.com Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

    45 min

Om

BaseCamp LIVE will equip you, the parent, educator, or mentor to climb the biggest mountains as you seek to shape young people to become exceptionally prepared, compassionate, and thoughtful human beings. Our guests are thought leaders, culture watchers, and educational experts who are seeing the benefits of a classical Christian education to form students into adults who can think critically, believe with courage, and serve compassionately.

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