Beyond the Lesson Plans

Lora & Erin

Homeschooling is more than a lesson plan. It's about relationships. Join two friends with 33+ years of experience as they talk real life, curriculum, challenges and the freedom to do things differently. Honest conversation, lots of laughs and plenty of grace for every stage of the homeschool journey.

Episodes

  1. 2d ago

    Sacrifice or Investment: A Homeschool Prespective

    In this episode of Beyond the Lesson Plans, we explore the real-life sacrifices and rewards of homeschooling. Discover how this choice impacts career, space, and social connections, while offering unique benefits like stronger family bonds and tailored education. We discuss the financial and emotional challenges families face, including career sacrifices and social ostracism, and how they turn these into opportunities for growth. Hear personal stories of parents prioritizing their children's education over material possessions. This episode provides honest insights and practical tips for navigating the homeschooling journey. Perfect for anyone curious about the true costs and benefits of educating at home. Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook

    47 min

  2. Jun 12

    The Swamp of Sadness

    Join us as we dive into candid Reddit discussions about homeschooling, highlighting both the triumphs and challenges faced by families. This episode explores varied perspectives from homeschooling advocates, critics, and former students to paint a comprehensive picture of this educational choice. The episode provides a balanced exploration, emphasizing that good homeschooling demands responsibility, engagement, and accountability, while acknowledging the systemic issues in public education. Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook

    38 min

  3. Jun 5

    The Summer Shift

    Grab your coffee and join us as we talk about what our summers looked like while we were homeschooling and things you can do to reset, rest and shift into the new school year.   Resources & Links: Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor GattoTeaching from Rest by Sarah MackenzieThomas Edison Education BooksHomeschool Community Resources Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook Enjoy your summer break and remember to embrace the slow, meaningful moments with your children!

    35 min

  4. May 29

    The Pioneers Part 2

    In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of homeschooling, hearing firsthand accounts from parents who were homeschooling before it was legal, and discussing how the movement has evolved over the decades. Discover the challenges, victories, and lessons learned from the pioneers who shaped the path for today's homeschool families. Resources & Links: Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)Bob Jones University CurriculumSaxon MathTeaching TextbooksAnswers in Genesis ScienceSophia LearningMystery of History CurriculumThe Good and the BeautifulStandardized Iowa TestHomeschooling Legislation in Michigan Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook Note: This episode covers a personal and historical journey of homeschooling. For more insights into current legislation or advocacy, visit the linked organizations.

    53 min

  5. May 22

    The Pioneers Part 1

    In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of homeschooling, hearing firsthand accounts from Sarah Lee and Sarah Beth, who were homeschooling before it was legal, and discussing how the movement has evolved over the decades. Discover the challenges, victories, and lessons learned from the pioneers who shaped the path for today's homeschool families. Resources & Links: Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)Bob Jones University CurriculumSaxon MathTeaching TextbooksAnswers in Genesis ScienceSophia LearningMystery of History CurriculumThe Good and the BeautifulStandardized Iowa TestHomeschooling Legislation in Michigan Connect with us and Our Guests: email: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook Note: This episode covers a personal and historical journey of homeschooling. For more insights into current legislation or advocacy, visit the linked organizations.

    42 min

  6. May 15

    Full Days Empty Tanks

    In this episode, Lora and Erin share their real-life experiences balancing homeschooling, household chores, family routines, and personal time. They discuss how personality traits influence scheduling, the importance of involving children in chores, and strategies for maintaining sanity and family connection. Links: The Thousand Hours Outside by Lindsay Rosette BurkeFlyLady Cleaning System Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook

    1h 9m

  7. May 8

    The Co-op Conversation

    Are you currently homeschooling or considering homeschooling and wondering how co-ops can fit into your family’s education plan? This episode dives into the ins and outs of homeschool co-ops, from different styles and structures to community benefits and practical tips for joining or starting one.  Links: Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)Michigan Christian Homeschool NetworkFaith Home Team Co-op Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook

    1h 2m

  8. May 1

    A Custom Fit Education: Homeschool Styles & Curriculum

    Feel overwhelmed? Remember, there's no one right way to homeschool. Flexibility, family values, and your child's interests should guide your choices. In this episode of Beyond the Lesson Plans, we dive into the various homeschooling curriculum styles, sharing insights and practical tips to help you select the best approach for your family's unique needs. Resources & Links: Mystery of HistoryMy Father’s WorldRainbow Resource CenterTeacher Pay TeachersRainbow ResourcesCathy Duffy Homeschool Curriculum ReviewsThe 5 Flavors of Homeschooling: https://youtu.be/LKAkKvZIHz4?si=H4qera0qIHARkOy_ Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook

    53 min

  9. Apr 24

    Learning Styles: Fact, Fiction or Both?

    Welcome to Beyond the Lesson Plans where Relationships>Worksheets.  In this Episode, we look for the truth about learning style. Are they a myth or a powerful tool? Most educators and parents believe in the concept, but recent research suggests something different. Erin and Lora explore the VARC model. Visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic. Breaking down each style with practical insights. You'll discover that most people are a blend of styles, often overlapping and combining to create a unique learning signature. We share real-life stories about children who thrive when their education taps into their natural preferences like spelling songs, movement-based math, and tactile spelling tactics. Links: Learning Style Quiz: Free Learning Style Quiz: How Do You Learn? HSLDA Quiz: What’s My Child’s Learning Preference? The Power of Sent: PubMed Central (PMC) (.gov)https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govSmell-Based Memory Training: Evidence of Olfactory Learning and Transfer to ... - PMC Affiliate Links: Spelling Power: https://amzn.to/4dNYayV Times Tales: https://amzn.to/4mCTnTh Math-U-See: https://amzn.to/4tXw1dz Connect with us at: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook

    34 min

  10. Apr 17

    Diplomas at Home

    Welcome to Beyond the Lesson Plans Where Relationships>worksheets. Homeschooling high school can feel intimidating!! Transcripts, credits, graduation requirements, prom, senior year celebrations… it can all start to feel like too much, too fast. But here’s the truth: you can do this.In this episode, we’re breaking it all down in a simple, encouraging way so you can move forward with confidence instead of fear. We’ll talk through what actually goes into high school at home, how transcripts and credits work, what you really need to know about planning for graduation, and how to still make space for the fun and meaningful moments like prom and senior celebrations. Whether you’re just starting to think about high school or you’re already in the thick of it, this conversation is here to remind you that homeschooling through the high school years is not only possible but it can be a really beautiful season for your family. Links: Michigan High School Public School Graduation Requirements: michigan high school graduation requirements  Michigan Homeschool Laws: https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/mde/2017/08/01/home_schools.pdf?rev=fef837db18ac4b75aa27c3ed78ff6679 HSLDA & HDLDA Military links: HSLDA - Advocates for Homeschooling Military Families Homeschool Diploma: Elevating Homeschool Graduations - HomeschoolDiploma.com TEDx Algebra w/ John Bennett https://youtu.be/xyowJZxrtbg Books (Affiliate Links): The Degree Free Way:  https://amzn.to/4cNu5hS planning High School Courses:  https://amzn.to/4cLzl5E Essential Electives for Homeschooling High School:  https://amzn.to/4eqs0JZ Creating Transcripts for Your Unique Child: https://amzn.to/4tr2Ori Connect with us at: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonplan_podcast?igsh=MWVuOHFhNGQ2YWliYQ== Facebook: Facebook

    1h 1m

  11. Apr 10

    Homeschooling 101

    Ready to take the plunge into homeschooling? This episode breaks down the essentials of getting started, from legal requirements to choosing the right curriculum and building community. Perfect for new homeschoolers or those considering the switch! We discuss:The necessary step of withdrawing children from public school, including the importance of a withdrawal letter and record keepingThe role of the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) and membership optionsRequirements across states, with focus on Michigan’s lenient regulationsHow to create a flexible schedule by subject and semester, including block scheduling and year-round schoolingDifferent curriculum styles: traditional workbooks, Charlotte Mason, classical education, unit studies, and eclectic approachesLearning styles: kinesthetic, visual, auditory, reading/writing, and how to adapt homeschooling to fit your childThe concept of de-schooling and transitioning from public school routinesManaging socialization through co-ops, sports, field trips, and community groupsAddressing common concerns about homeschooling: socialization, time management, and when to startResources & Links:Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) - Membership options from $150 annually to $1,500 lifetimeMichigan.gov homeschooling resources - Graduation requirements and regulationsFive Flavors of Homeschooling - YouTube - Video on different homeschool styles Books (Affiliate links) Call of the wild & free -  https://amzn.to/415RxjM Brave learner -  https://amzn.to/4bLc0jY The way They learn -  https://amzn.to/4ruGVWl The Well trained mind -  https://amzn.to/40ARe0k Connect with Erin and Lora: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com

    1h 10m

  12. Apr 3

    Welcome to Beyond the Lesson Plans

    A conversation between Lora and Erin, two experienced homeschoolers, discussing their homeschooling journey, challenges, and the motivation behind starting a homeschooling podcast. They share insights, experiences, and plans for their podcast, 'Beyond the Lesson Plans'. For questions and comments, email us at beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com. we'd love to connect with you.

    30 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Homeschooling is more than a lesson plan. It's about relationships. Join two friends with 33+ years of experience as they talk real life, curriculum, challenges and the freedom to do things differently. Honest conversation, lots of laughs and plenty of grace for every stage of the homeschool journey.

Information

  • Creator
    Lora & Erin
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Lora & Erin
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Lesson Plans