Homeschool Talks: Ideas and Inspiration for Your Homeschool HSLDA

Phylicia Masonheimer, homeschool mom, graduate, and founder of Every Woman A Theologian, joins your host Jim Mason, President of HSLDA, in an encouraging conversation about embracing the calling of homeschooling. In this episode, they discuss Phylicia’s ministry, how she has learned the importance of patience on her homeschool journey, and her advocacy work for homeschool freedom. 
“One of the things that people often say to homeschool parents is, well, I could never do that. I'm not patient enough. And it's a frustrating thing for homeschool parents to hear because it's actually quite dismissive. It says that patience is something inherent, that you're born with it. That is really dismissive of how much work it is for homeschool parents to show up every day. Patience is a discipline. It's a fruit of the spirit. It's something that we have worked in us by doing hard work over and over, by being willing to sacrifice and lay ourselves down. Patience is a muscle. It grows as it is used.”—Phylicia Masonheimer

How do we embrace change? Sometimes, it’s hardest to do at home. Howard Schmidt joins your host, Jim Mason, to discuss Howard’s homeschool journey as a parent, his career as Vice President & General Manager at Lennox International, and his newest adventure working in the academic setting at Patrick Henry College as Executive Vice President. Gain insight into how he is equipping leaders to view challenges as opportunities in an ever-changing environment. 
“Maybe you're going through a time of flux [in your home education journey], maybe it’s a difficult time. Just hit the slow down [button] (but never [the] stop button) and pray about it! Find some people to sit down and have the discussion. Why are we here? Why do we do this? And I can tell you, the purpose of homeschooling is so immense”—Howard Schmidt

Protecting homeschool freedom starts with protecting families in their homes from unreasonable searches and seizures. HSLDA co-founder Mike Farris joins Jim Mason (HSLDA president) in a discussion on 4th Amendment cases that HSLDA has taken on over the years. Learn why it is important for parents to know their rights, know when and how to respectfully assert them, and when to call HSLDA.
“We have information on our website [for parents]. They don't need to be experts [to know homeschool law]. They just need to know the basics. Our attorneys can [handle these situations quickly]. Other attorneys could figure it out in due course, but it's expensive, and it would take them a while. HSLDA’s ability to turn it around rapidly is because this is our expertise.”—Mike Farris

Lauren Gideon saw her children struggling with their workbooks and became determined to find a curriculum that worked for her family. Join Lauren and your host, Jim Mason, as they discuss children’s individuality and the need for a unique education that fits their needs. Discover how parents can enjoy the freedom and opportunity to define their educational goals!
“Enjoy [homeschooling]. Kids learn a lot more when they're having fun. Assume that you won't get it right the first time! And that's okay. I probably have pivoted more than most in homeschooling, and each time I learn something. I learned what I didn't want to do in my homeschool. And through that, I [have] curated a vision for what I wanted”—Lauren Gideon

Meet Abraham Hamilton, general counsel of American Family Association and host of the Hamilton Corner, a daily radio program. Abraham joins Jim Mason (HSLDA President) to explore the power of discipleship in homeschooling and Abraham’s dedication to homeschooling, a commitment that he and his wife made long before welcoming their own children into the world.
“[Homeschooling] has been a phenomenal journey. One of the things we found is that our children have cultivated a voracious appetite for learning; they view learning as an outgrowth of their commitment to Christ”—Abraham Hamilton

Rogers Hellman is an innovator and pioneer for homeschool families and those in need.
He initiated a healthcare computer system for underprivileged nations, sowed the seeds of HSLDA’s Compassion Fund, and delivered a moving presentation before the Panama parliament. Rogers joins Jim Mason, HSLDA's President, to engage in an uplifting conversation about small beginnings paving the way for the most beautiful and impactful journeys of making a difference in the lives of others.
“I try to give myself the same grace that I give others. We're all struggling, but that's okay. You know, we've got a role to do, and we've got things that we need to do. And loving one another and serving one another is way up there on the list”—Rogers Hellman