Homeschool Better Together with Pam Barnhill

Pam Barnhill
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Homeschool Better Together with Pam Barnhill

Are you ready for homeschooling to feel joyful again? Do you need support as you learn alongside your kids? Welcome to Homeschool Better Together. Hosted by Pam Barnhill, this podcast shares how to stop questioning if you are doing enough and create a homeschool experience that fits your family. Each Tuesday, we break down the big ideas into manageable chunks to give you the confidence and resources you need to finally step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder. Homeschool stories and practical tips are delivered straight to your earbuds full of inspiration and encouragement. They are perfect to listen to while running errands or folding a load of laundry. No matter what homeschool method you use, you’ll learn how to remove the overwhelm from your homeschool so you can focus on building relationships. To stay connected and learn even more about the Homeschooling Better Together resources, join the free community: https://pambarnhill.com/homeschool-better-together-podcast/

  1. JUN 17

    Juggling Big Life Changes and Homeschool

    Are you in a season where homeschooling just feels… well, impossible? Juggling toddlers, moving houses, job changes—or maybe even facing heart surgery for your baby? Deep breath—friend, this episode is proof you really can keep going, even in the crazy! Today I’m joined by my friend, marketing pro, and veteran homeschool mom Tracey Matney. Tracey’s not only teaching her 8-year-old son (since Pre-K!)—she’s also wrangling a busy toddler after a wild couple of years filled with moving, house fires, a not-quite-soon-enough home build, having a newborn in a borrowed back-house, and that earth-shaking moment when her baby needed open heart surgery at just four months old. If you’ve ever thought, “How am I supposed to homeschool through THIS?”—Tracey’s story will encourage you and give you a good reality check on what truly matters. (Spoiler: Perfectionism is out, “the main things” are in.) What You'll Learn About Homeschooling While Under PressureThe only subjects that really matter during a crisis season (and what to ditch)How to build resilience—even when chaos reigns at home (hint: Bible, breakfast, and deep breaths)The power of homeschool community and leaning on others when you simply can’t do it allPractical ways to pivot your plans, release perfection, and keep going—even when you want to quitHow Autopilot planning (and a clear homeschool vision) transforms your confidence and sanity—not just your lesson listsWhy letting your kids see you grow is its own kind of homeschool win Links and Resources From Today’s ShowPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotBeast Academy math (for independent/gifted math)IEW Fix It GrammarStory of the World (history)Tracey’s InstagramFree Homeschool Community For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to a href="pambarnhill.com/hsbt40" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    36 min

  2. JUN 3

    Which Homeschool Schedule Actually Works for You?

    Are you ready to break out of “school-at-home” thinking and finally build a homeschool rhythm that fits YOUR real life—not just the one in the curriculum guide? This week, I invited our two resident schedule-geeks—Laney Homan and Dawn Garrett—into the studio for a lively, practical (and very honest) roundtable on all things homeschool schedules. We’re tackling the myth that there’s only one “right” way to schedule your homeschool, sharing why nobody here gets up for a 7am school bus…and giving you permission to let go of what doesn’t work for your unique family. We walk through six of the most popular scheduling types (yep, there’s math, but not the scary kind), spill the biggest scheduling mistakes we’ve made, and show you what flexibility really looks like through every messy season. No pressure. Just lots of ideas, permission to pivot, and some hilarious overscheduling confessions from yours truly. If you secretly geek out over planners—or if you just wish someone would tell you WHY you can never stick to the schedule the public school uses—this is your episode. Grab your coffee, open your planner (or don’t), and join us for a real talk that just might make your next homeschool season your smoothest yet. What You’ll Learn:The most common homeschool schedule types and why families choose themHow to start with intention (not just “fall into” inconsistent routines)Why your schedule can (and should) change as your family grows and life shiftsHow to adapt for outside classes, big family needs, and real-life curveballsThe difference between loop and block scheduling (and which one to use if you always skip science!)How to use “magic number” scheduling for ultimate flexibility—and what to avoidPermission to experiment, change things up, or even go back to traditional if that’s what works Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Put Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotLoop Schedule VideoHomeschool Better Together Community For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt39. Mentioned in this episode: Autopilot Bonus 2025 Get the Independent Student Planner Bundle FREE when you purchase Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot by June 27. Go to pambarnhill.com/autopilot today! Autopilot Bonus

    42 min

  3. MAY 20

    How to Keep Homeschool Consistent When Life Isn’t

    What happens when your homeschool plan goes on the road—literally? Today, I’m joined by second-generation homeschooler and seasoned moving pro, Adrienne Denison, to talk about schooling through cross-country moves, starting over in a new place, and making sure your curriculum doesn’t get lost between boxes of Legos and winter coats. Adrienne unpacks (pun absolutely intended) the lessons she’s learned navigating three major moves in just six months, transitioning her four kids through pivotal school years—and why she’s so passionate about not letting perfect get in the way of done. As a CC (Classical Conversations) family and longtime Autopilot user, Adrienne shares her best tactical tips for planning, packing, downsizing, and keeping your school system humming even when life’s upside down. If you’ve ever wondered how to homeschool when your schedule and address are both a moving target, this episode is full of honest encouragement, practical hacks, and permission to let some things go so you can say yes to connection, community, and new beginnings (even if it means doing math on the trampoline). What You'll Learn About Homeschooling While MovingHow Adrienne survived three “mini-moves” in one big cross-country adventureHer secret for never losing track of curriculum (even with boxes everywhere)What to toss, keep, or give away—and why purging was actually a blessingWhy Adrienne doesn’t mind letting academics take a back seat after a big moveHow using Homeschool on Autopilot helped her keep everyone on track (and sane)Tips for banking “school days” early and freeing up time for finding new friendsWhy supporting your family’s emotional needs is just as critical as checking boxes—and yes, you have permission to lamentAdrienne’s best hack for organizing books, prepping for high school, and making your next move smoother (even if it’s just down the street) Links and Resources From Today’s ShowPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotConsistency BootcampClassical ConversationsMagic Number SchoolingDark Clouds, Deep Mercy (book on lamenting)Homeschool Better Together Community For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt38 Mentioned in this episode: Autopilot Bonus 2025 Get the Independent Student Planner Bundle FREE when you purchase Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot by June 27. Go to pambarnhill.com/autopilot today! Autopilot Bonus

    36 min

  4. MAY 6

    Six Smart Questions to Ask Before You Buy Curriculum

    It’s curriculum season, and you know what that means: a flood of shiny programs, glowing reviews, and unboxing videos that make everything look like the answer to your homeschool stress. But here’s my honest take—it only counts if it actually works for your own real-life family, not just the influencer on YouTube. Today, I’m flying solo to give you my six best questions to ask yourself BEFORE you hit “add to cart” on that next curriculum (plus a bonus one at the end). This is all about helping you dodge curriculum regret, stop chasing endless FOMO, and make smart, confident choices—even when everything looks “perfect” out there. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a seasoned vet with a closet full of half-used programs, you’ll find practical strategies, real talk, and permission to pivot without guilt. I’ll share my own wins (hello, DIY Shakespeare lessons) and fails (science experiments we never actually did) so you can learn from my messy middle. Links and Resources From Today’s ShowThe Lively Art of Writing (classic writing instruction)All About Reading / All About Spelling (for phonics and hand-holding)Language Arts Together plansMr. D MathTeens on TrackOur free homeschool community (join and ask your questions!) What You'll Learn About Choosing CurriculumAre you making your curriculum choice based on your season of life—or wishful thinking?How to ditch the comparison spiral and stop second-guessing yourselfThe ONE thing every curriculum that “works” has in common (spoiler: it isn’t expensive flashcards or pretty boxes)Concrete examples to help you decide if you need hand-holding—or can wing it like a proWhy you don’t NEED to die on every homeschool hill (goodbye, busywork battles!)Sneaky ways life seasons—from new babies to job changes—should guide your curriculum decisions For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt37. Mentioned in this episode: Autopilot Bonus 2025 Get the Independent Student Planner Bundle FREE when you purchase Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot by June 27. Go to pambarnhill.com/autopilot today! Autopilot Bonus

    24 min

  5. APR 22

    What Makes a Good Curriculum?

    Let’s get brutally honest: no single curriculum is ever going to save your homeschool, fix your child’s attitude, or turn your kitchen into one of those magical, Instagram-perfect learning havens. If you’re looking for the “unicorn curriculum,” keep dreaming (or better yet, listen up—because we’re about to set you free). In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, I sat down with the queen of curriculum experimentation, Laney Homan—our Community Success Manager, veteran homeschool mom of eight, and half-marathon runner (yes, we’re still impressed!). Together, we pull back the curtain on what really makes curriculum work in a real-life homeschool, how to shop smarter (hello, shelves full of unused programs), and the hard truth about independence and motivation—for kids and parents alike. What You'll Learn About Homeschool CurriculumWhat happens when you stop endlessly chasing “the perfect” and start shopping for curriculum that fits your real goals (and real kids)How shifting your curriculum approach can lead to better results, fewer tears, and way less guilt-shoppingWhy independence can’t be bought (no matter how “open-and-go” something claims to be)The exact way Laney pivots when a program stops working (hint: it’s not about “fancy” or new, it’s about needs)How curriculum is really a TOOL, not a magic wand, and how to think like a confident homeschool parent who’s in the driver’s seatThe value of togetherness and why our “Together” curriculum line is saving the sanity of big families and moms with laundry piles as tall as their teens Links and Resources From Today’s ShowAll About ReadingPhonics Museum (Veritas Press)Homeschool Consistency BootcampWonder Studies and Together Curriculum LineTeens on TrackTeen Task Card MasterClassPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotHomeschool Better Together Community For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt36 Mentioned in this episode: Autopilot Bonus

    45 min

  6. APR 8

    Got Cold Feet About Homeschooling? You're Not Alone!

    Are you hesitant to homeschool? You're not alone! In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, host Pam Barnhill chats with Mandy McArthur and Jessica Solis Carpinelli, authors of "Hesitant to Homeschool: Answers to 20 Common Questions." Mandy and Jessica share practical insights and encouragement for parents considering homeschooling but feeling apprehensive. Discover how a strong support system and the right resources make all the difference. They tackle common fears like socialization concerns and not knowing enough to teach, revealing that homeschooling is more about teaching children how to learn than being an expert in every subject. Jessica explains, “We aren’t expected to be experts in everything... we’re trying to teach our kids how to learn.” Meanwhile, Mandy emphasizes the importance of community, advising parents to connect and say “yes” to building relationships with other homeschoolers. Listen in for inspirational stories that might just help you take the leap with confidence. Key Takeaways: Homeschooling is about teaching kids how to learn, not teaching every subject.Build a supportive community by saying yes to opportunities and events.Socialization through homeschooling is different but equally impactful.Adjusting to homeschooling involves embracing flexibility and redefining structure.Many colleges welcome homeschooled students, often appreciating their unique educational perspectives. Links and Resources: Hesitant to Homeschool: Answers to 20 Common Questions by Mandi McArthur and Jessica Solis CarpinelliThe Coop Homeschool Homeschool Better Together WebsiteHomeschool Better Together PodcastHomeschool Better Together Community For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt35 Mentioned in this episode: Autopilot Bonus 2025 Get the Independent Student Planner Bundle FREE when you purchase Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot by June 27. Go to pambarnhill.com/autopilot today! Autopilot Bonus

    46 min

  7. MAR 25

    Can You Really Outsource High School? One Mom’s Story

    Homeschooling high school feels like a big shift. Suddenly, you’re looking at advanced subjects, keeping transcripts, and preparing your teen for what comes next. In this episode, I sit down with Meg Angelino, our operations manager and curriculum editor, to talk about what happens when you start outsourcing classes while still juggling motherhood. We discuss our journeys toward more organized homeschools, and the vital role our online community plays in offering encouragement and fresh ideas. Listen in to gain practical insights on the changing roles as a parent, keeping students motivated, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with transitioning to high school.  Key Takeaways: Outsourcing reduces stress while ensuring a solid education.Feeling overwhelmed? Consider online courses, co-ops, or dual enrollment.Stay involved—check assignments, discuss lessons, and help with deadlines.Options include live/self-paced online courses, hybrid programs, co-ops, and community college classes.Teens need independence but still require guidance.Keep core traditions like Morning Time, read-alouds, and discussions to maintain your homeschool’s values. Links and Resources: Homeschool Better Together PodcastPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotMere Motherhood by Cindy RollinsNavigating High SchoolAndrew Pudewa's Institute for Excellence in WritingColleen Kessler Raising Lifelong Learners Kristin Moons ScienceMr. D MathHomeschool Better Together Free Community For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt34 To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here. Mentioned in this episode: Autopilot Bonus 2025 Get the Independent Student Planner Bundle FREE when you purchase Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot by June 27. Go to pambarnhill.com/autopilot today! Autopilot Bonus

    35 min

  8. MAR 11

    A Game-Changing Approach to Homeschooling High School

    Homeschooling high school can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, our community manager, Dawn Garrett, steps in as host to chat with homeschool mom Elizabeth Overcash about her experience navigating these crucial years. Elizabeth, a retired military wife, shares her unique perspective—having one child who graduated from a traditional school while homeschooling her younger two. She talks about shifting from a hands-on teaching style to more of a coaching role, balancing structure with flexibility, and helping her teens take ownership of their education. She also discusses how she integrates out-of-the-box learning, like film studies and Scouting, while ensuring her kids meet high school requirements. Key Takeaways: The transition to homeschooling high school doesn’t have to be scary—it’s about adjusting your role from teacher to guide.Structure matters, but so does allowing flexibility for real-life learning.Giving teens ownership over their curriculum choices boosts motivation and engagement.Planning tools like Navigating High School and Plan Your Year can make the process smoother.Homeschooling high school is about preparing kids for life, not just checking academic boxes. Links and Resources: Homeschool Better Together PodcastNavigating High SchoolPut Your Year AutopilotHomeschool Better Together CommunityCure the Fear of Homeschooling High School by Anne KarakoAndrew Pudewa's Structure and Style programCollege Prep GeniusSarah MacKenzie Read-Aloud Revival Podcast For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt(33) Mentioned in this episode: Autopilot Bonus 2025 Get the Independent Student Planner Bundle FREE when you purchase Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot by June 27. Go to pambarnhill.com/autopilot today! Autopilot Bonus

    49 min
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About

Are you ready for homeschooling to feel joyful again? Do you need support as you learn alongside your kids? Welcome to Homeschool Better Together. Hosted by Pam Barnhill, this podcast shares how to stop questioning if you are doing enough and create a homeschool experience that fits your family. Each Tuesday, we break down the big ideas into manageable chunks to give you the confidence and resources you need to finally step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder. Homeschool stories and practical tips are delivered straight to your earbuds full of inspiration and encouragement. They are perfect to listen to while running errands or folding a load of laundry. No matter what homeschool method you use, you’ll learn how to remove the overwhelm from your homeschool so you can focus on building relationships. To stay connected and learn even more about the Homeschooling Better Together resources, join the free community: https://pambarnhill.com/homeschool-better-together-podcast/

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