Ex-Homeschoolers Club

Jacob Gooden
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Ex-Homeschoolers Club

Welcome to the Club! This is a place to discuss the Good, Bad, & Ugly of Growing Up a Homeschooler. Every week, you'll hear from me and my childhood friends as we share stories from growing up with our parents for teachers.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Did I Grow Up In A Homeschool Cult?

    In this weeks episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I'm sitting down with Alyssa Gaona to explore her unconventional homeschooling journey. From growing up in a restrictive and cult-like environment to discovering her passion for teaching and biology, Alyssa shares her struggles and triumphs. Together, they discuss the impact of childhood experiences, the importance of mental health awareness, and how education shapes identity. This episode highlights Alyssa's journey from surviving a challenging upbringing to pursuing a career in teaching with hope and resilience. Key Takeaways Alyssa's experience with minimal educational structure and the challenges it created. The influence of supportive mentors and how they shaped her aspirations. Insights into mental health awareness and its intersection with homeschooling. Alyssa’s decision to pursue teaching, specializing in biology and early childhood development. Practical advice for parents on fostering healthy educational environments. Resources Mentioned California’s Educational Standards: Official Website Alyssa’s Instagram: @TheMexicanPerson Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend! Connect with us: Instagram: @EXHSclub Email: exhsclub@gmail.com

    1h 3m

  2. 6 DAYS AGO · BONUS

    A Quick Update

    Hey Ex-Homeschoolers! NO INTERVIEW this week but I'm making it up to you next week by dropping 2 episodes! 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/@exhsclub Email me at exhsclub@gmail.com

    2 min

  3. NOV 13

    Does Homeschooling Give You an Edge in Creative Careers?

    In this episode, we’re joined by Keara Minshall, a filmmaker and homeschool alum, who shares her inspiring journey through homeschooling, the challenges she faced, and her pursuit of a career in film. Keara reflects on the pivotal role her homeschool community played in shaping her love for storytelling, from creating backyard productions to studying film in college. She candidly discusses her professional path, the impact of COVID-19 on the film industry, and her recent work on Netflix’s "The Electric State." Join us as we explore the highs and lows of homeschooling, creative passions, and the evolving world of storytelling. Key Takeaways - Homeschool Journey: Keara's experience highlights the adaptability of homeschool education and its impact on creativity. - Creative Beginnings: Early exposure to filmmaking through homeschool classes sparked Keara’s passion for storytelling. - Industry Insights: Challenges and shifts in Hollywood, plus Keara’s journey into commercial directing. - Community Building: Importance of finding and fostering friendships and support networks, especially in a homeschool setting. Resources Mentioned - The Electric State by the Russo Brothers (Film, releasing March 14) https://youtu.be/9gUDaPTPxwo?si=w2pWfldE233MIzeS - Home-Schooled series on Roku https://app.pureflix.com/series/292224550859/home-schooled - Chuck Testa Commercial https://youtu.be/LJP1DphOWPs?si=qHlGgk0SB_1VLPsG Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:04 Keara's Homeschool Journey 06:20 Transition to Public School 07:57 Homeschool vs. Traditional School 14:22 Discovering a Passion for Filmmaking 16:49 College Experience and Video Production Club 20:27 Post-College Career in Filmmaking 23:25 Working on The Electric State 28:05 Insights on Storytelling 29:38 Reflecting on the Purpose of the Show 30:30 Homeschooling Stories: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly 31:05 The Direction and Outcome of Storytelling 32:03 Current Projects and the State of Hollywood 32:42 The Rise of Podcasting and Scripted Audio Stories 33:43 Challenges in the Film Industry 38:05 The Magic of Movie Theaters 40:50 Directing Commercials: A New Venture 44:04 Nostalgia and Early Creative Endeavors 47:18 The Importance of Friendship and Community 54:54 Concluding Thoughts and Staying Connected 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/@exhsclub Email me at exhsclub@gmail.com

    57 min

  4. NOV 6

    A Boy Scouts Guide To Surviving Homeschool

    In this episode of the Ex-Homeschoolers Club, Jacob Gooden reconnects with longtime friend John Slagboom to share stories from their homeschool days and discuss the journey since then. John shares hilarious anecdotes like “The Finger Incident” and his unique experiences teaching wilderness survival to fellow homeschoolers. They also dive into deeper themes, including how their upbringing influenced their college years and personal growth. John reflects on homeschooling's impact on his faith, social skills, and his approach to raising his own children. This episode is a blend of nostalgia, life lessons, and humor, perfect for anyone interested in the homeschool experience and its lasting effects. Key Takeaways: The Finger Incident: John recounts his infamous “finger incident” and the surreal moment when his pet bird tried to eat a piece of his severed skin. Teaching Wilderness Survival: John’s experiences teaching wilderness skills and why he chose “Lord of the Flies” as part of the curriculum. Homeschool Dynamics: Insight into homeschool cliques and the unique social landscape they navigated as teens. Life Beyond Homeschooling: How leaving the homeschool bubble influenced John’s college experience, career path, and parenting. Resources Mentioned: Lord of the Flies by William Golding Boy Scouts of America Connect with Ex-Homeschoolers Club Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclub YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ex-HomeschoolersClub Email me at exhsclub@gmail.com Subscribe to Ex-Homeschoolers Club for more stories from the past and lessons for today. Don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the episode, and visit our website for more resources!

    1h 13m

  5. OCT 30

    Did Homeschooling Prepare Us To Be Adults?

    In this episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, Jacob Gooden sits down with Makeila Harrell (Mahoney) as they delve into the unique experiences of being raised in a homeschooling environment with strong religious influences. From the pressures of being a pastor’s kid to transitioning into adult life and exploring career paths in event management and marketing, Makeila shares her journey of faith, mental health, and the pursuit of personal identity. Together, they reflect on the value of community, overcoming “church hurt,” and embracing authenticity in a world that often misunderstands homeschoolers. This episode is a must-listen for those curious about the intersections of homeschooling, mental wellness, and the freedom to redefine success. Key Takeaways: - Finding Your Path Beyond Traditional Schooling: Makeila shares how she pursued event management and marketing without a traditional college degree. - Mental Health and Church Influence: Insight into how faith-based environments impact mental health, including dealing with the pressures of a pastoral family. - Embracing Healing and Growth: Makeila’s experience with personal growth, including how psychology, therapy, and family dynamics influenced her journey. - Rediscovering Faith and Community: The importance of finding a balanced spiritual community and reconnecting with childhood friends. Resources Mentioned: New York Institute of Art and Design: https://www.nyiad.edu/ The Enneagram Personality Test (understanding personality types): https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/ Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Ex-Homeschoolers Club 01:46 Homeschool Beginnings and Family Dynamics 03:20 Homeschool Groups and Social Life 06:00 High School Choices and Homeschool Benefits 12:41 Transitioning to Adulthood and Career Choices 14:00 Event Management and Career Growth 17:54 From Events to Marketing 24:15 Entrepreneurial Beginnings 25:02 Homeschooling Reflections 25:56 Mental Health and Homeschooling 27:43 Exploring Enneagrams 29:20 Church and Mental Health 31:00 Family Dynamics and Church Politics 33:18 Transitioning Away from the Church 40:39 Healing and Helping Others 44:15 Reconnecting with Old Friends 45:38 A Surprise Party Story 48:14 Final Thoughts and Call to Action If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from Makeila’s 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/@exhsclub Email me at exhsclub@gmail.com

    49 min

  6. OCT 24

    Homeschool Senior Ditch Day Goes WILD!

    In this episode of the Ex-Homeschoolers Club, host Jacob Gooden welcomes Emileigh Bierman, who shares her unique journey through homeschooling, the challenges she faced with learning disabilities, and how her educational experience shaped her love for reading and learning. *Key Topics Discussed* - Emileigh's Homeschool Journey - Challenges and Adaptations in Learning - Benefits of Homeschooling - Creative Teaching Methods - Growth and Development - Reflections on Education Today *Quotes from the Episode* “I think my parents saw that I was smart... but the school system was giving up on me.” — Emileigh Bierman “Homeschooling allowed me to learn what my super interest is.” — Emileigh Bierman If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Share your thoughts or experiences with homeschooling by reaching out to us on social media.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/ Email: exhsclub@gmail.com

    1h 10m

  7. OCT 16

    I Said I'd NEVER Homeschool My Kids!

    In this nostalgic episode of Ex-Homeschoolers Club, host Jacob Gooden reconnects with Morgan Shanks (Emmons) to reminisce about their shared experiences as homeschoolers and youth group members. Morgan's Diverse Educational Journey Attended private school, public school, and online programs before homeschooling Homeschooled primarily during junior high and high school years Participated in co-ops and online classes Navigating the Homeschool Community Morgan felt like an outsider due to her parents' more relaxed approach Struggled to fit in with traditional homeschool families Got a tattoo at 16, causing controversy among peers Youth Group Adventures Morgan thrived in the youth group environment Became known for elaborate pranks with best friend Hannah Amico Memorable pranks included: Powdering a youth leader's car Hiding fish in a mission trip van A neighborhood prank gone awry Reflections on Homeschooling and Youth Discusses the challenges of fitting in as a homeschooler Compares experiences in homeschool co-ops vs. church youth group Highlights the importance of finding one's place during teenage years Don't miss this entertaining episode full of laughter, nostalgia, and insights into the unique experiences of homeschooled teens in the early 2000s. If you're interested in seeing Morgan's Wedding Photography, check out their website: https://younmephotographs.com or check them out on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younmephotographs/ Connect with Me We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your experiences or insights about homeschooling on social media. Follow us on Instagram or TikTok @exhsclub and don’t forget to subscribe to the Ex-Homeschoolers Club for more engaging discussions. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your friends! Feel free to email me at exhsclub@gmail.com with any comments or questions.

    1h 2m

  8. OCT 10

    Homeschooling Taught Me To Code-Switch

    In this episode of the Ex-Homeschoolers Club, host Jacob Gooden welcomes Annanlee Chang, a long-time friend and fellow homeschooler, to discuss her unique educational journey. From her early days in a Waldorf school to homeschooling and finally transitioning to public high school, Annanlee shares her insights and experiences that shaped her identity. This episode delves into the misconceptions surrounding homeschooling, the challenges of adapting to public school, and how these experiences have influenced her adult life. Key Highlights The Homeschool Experience: Annanlee discusses her transition from a private Waldorf school to homeschooling in 5th grade, emphasizing that homeschooling doesn't mean being at home all the time. She reflects on how this educational approach allowed for diverse social interactions outside traditional schooling. Writing a Letter for Change: To express her desire to attend public school, Annanlee wrote a letter to her parents. She explains how this decision stemmed from wanting to experience typical high school life and gain material for her writing. Impact of Mrs. Yip's Class: Annanlee shares how Mrs. Yip’s writing class was pivotal in her education, teaching valuable writing skills that she continues to use today. The class fostered creativity and critical thinking, helping both her and Jacob navigate their academic journeys. Favorite Quotes “Homeschooling is kind of an antiquated term; it doesn’t mean you’re at home all the time.” “I wanted to write about high school experiences, but I didn’t even know what a locker room looked like.” “You learn how to code-switch a lot when you homeschool.” Connect with Me We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your experiences or insights about homeschooling on social media. Follow us on Instagram or TikTok @exhsclub and don’t forget to subscribe to the Ex-Homeschoolers Club for more engaging discussions. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your friends! Feel free to email me at exhsclub@gmail.com with any comments or questions.

    54 min
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About

Welcome to the Club! This is a place to discuss the Good, Bad, & Ugly of Growing Up a Homeschooler. Every week, you'll hear from me and my childhood friends as we share stories from growing up with our parents for teachers.

Information

  • Creator
    Jacob Gooden
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2024
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jacob Gooden
  • Show Website
    Ex-Homeschoolers Club

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