Our Offbeat Life OurOffbeatLife.com

Join host David Cole in 'Our Offbeat Life Podcast' as he delves into the fascinating world of global schooling, exploring how intrepid families embrace education through travel. This episode covers various educational approaches such as worldschooling, unschooling, road schooling, and online schooling, providing insights and practical tips for traveling families. David shares captivating stories from his own experiences as a digital nomad, highlighting the personal growth, cultural appreciation, and life skills developed through these alternative education methods. Tune in for a comprehensive guide on transcending traditional education and fostering a globally conscious mindset in your children.

0:00 Global Schooling

02:00 Introduction to Global Schooling

02:13 Meet David: The Digital Nomad Teacher

03:29 Exploring Worldschooling

04:32 Unschooling: Child-Directed Learning

05:10 Global Schooling: A Broader Perspective

06:34 Personal Experience: Machu Picchu

08:07 Cultural Immersion and Global Citizenship

09:35 Developing Essential Life Skills

12:59 Challenges of World and Global Schooling

14:40 Addressing Educational Challenges

16:32 Becoming a Global Scholar

18:05 Connecting with Like-Minded Families

Embracing Worldschooling: A Journey of Freedom and Education with Karen King



In this episode of the Our Offbeat Life Podcast, host David Cole delves into the transformative journey of Karen King, a pioneering worldschooler from Australia. Together, they explore Karen's family's decision to leave behind conventional life for full-time travel and worldschooling. They discuss the ups and downs of this unconventional lifestyle, from funding their travels to the profound educational impact on their children. The conversation also highlights the challenges and benefits of living a location-independent life, fostering community connections, and the future of worldschooling. Karen provides insightful advice and inspiration for families considering this adventurous path.



Links:

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/worldschoolingcentral

Website: https://www.worldschoolingcentral.com/



0:00 Karen King Offbeat Interview

00:35 Introduction to Our Offbeat Life Podcast

03:06 Meet Karen King: A Worldschooling Pioneer

04:36 The Decision to Embrace Worldschooling

05:36 Breaking Free from the Traditional Lifestyle

07:48 The Lightbulb Moment: Discovering Location Independence

08:54 Adjusting to a New Way of Life

17:51 Cultural Experiences and Challenges

21:36 Financing the Worldschooling Adventure

26:41 Impact on Children's Education and Development

31:26 Deschooling and Learning Through Experience

34:57 The Power of Interest in Learning

35:58 Challenges of Transitioning to a Nomadic Lifestyle

37:35 Exploring World Schooling Adventures

38:06 Adapting to Life on the Road

39:48 Impact of COVID on Travel and Community

42:45 Raising Well-Adjusted World-Schooled Kids

51:48 Overcoming Financial and Emotional Struggles

53:46 The World Isn't Ready for Nomads

54:55 The Mission of World Schooling Central

56:20 Travel Trivia and Future Plans

In this engaging episode of “Our Offbeat Life”, host David Cole takes us on a captivating journey into the world of worldschooling. Whether you’re a seasoned worldschooler or simply curious about this lifestyle, get ready to explore how the globe can become your classroom.


Episode Highlights:

1. Introduction: The Desire to Travel (00:00)


David sets the stage by discussing the innate human desire to explore and travel.
He introduces the concept of worldschooling as a way to combine education with adventure.


2. Welcome to Our Offbeat Life Podcast (01:08)


David warmly welcomes listeners to the podcast, emphasizing the unique perspectives shared by guests.



3. Meet Your Host: David Cole (02:20)


A brief introduction to David’s background as a full-time traveler and educator.


4. Defining Worldschooling (02:39)


David dives into the heart of the episode: What exactly is worldschooling?
Worldschooling is the intentional act of viewing the world as one’s classroom. It combines multi-age and experiential learning with travel and cultural experiences.
Unlike traditional schooling, worldschooling encourages learning beyond textbooks and classroom walls.


5. Principles of Worldschooling (05:23)


David explores the core principles of worldschooling:




Cultural Immersion: Learning through firsthand experiences, embracing local customs, and understanding diverse perspectives.
Personalized Learning: Tailoring education to each individual’s interests, strengths, and needs.
Self-Directed Learning: Encouraging curiosity-driven exploration and self-motivated discovery.




6. Challenges and Benefits (08:41)


Benefits:



Cultural Immersion: Worldschooling allows families to immerse themselves in different cultures, languages, and traditions.
Flexible Education: Personalized learning fosters creativity and adaptability.
Transformative Experiences: Families share their stories of growth and enrich




Challenges:

Logistical Hurdles: Navigating visas, healthcare, and practical aspects of travel.
Social and Emotional Aspects: Balancing social interactions and maintaining emotional well-being.
Minimalism and Downsizing: Embracing a simpler lifestyle.


7. Financial Strategies and Legal Considerations (19:25)


David discusses financial planning for worldschooling families and legal considerations when travelin
Practical tips and resources are shared.


8. Travel Planning Tips (25:36)


From itinerary planning to safety precautions, David covers essential aspects of successful worldschooling adventures.


9. Frequently Asked Questions (29:06)


David addresses common queries related to worldschooling.
Practical insights and advice are provided.


10. A Day in the Life of a Worldschooling Family (33:10)


Bethany shares her family’s experiences in South America, highlighting the diversity of approaches within the worldschooling community.


Conclusion:


This episode aims to inspire and motivate families to consider worldschooling as a feasible and enriching lifestyle.
Whether you’re a globe-trotting educator or a curious listener, worldschooling offers a unique educational journey.

Tune in and let the world be your classroom! 🌍🎧

Wonder Year Interview



In this episode, the authors of the book, 'Wonder Year', discuss their experience of travelling with their families for an extended period. Each author discusses how world-schooling, or using the world as a classroom, shaped their family's journey as well as the numerous experiences they had. They delve into the logistical elements including planning and packing, and also address the challenges faced and misconceptions about extended family travel. They emphasize a central theme of curiosity, explaining how a thirst for knowledge drives learning, cultural appreciation, and connection. The authors encourage families to pursue their own world-schooling journeys, assuring there is a supportive community waiting to welcome them.


Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Wonder-Year-Long-Term-Family-Worldschooling/dp/1637560249/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XLFSRUK4KKRD&keywords=wonder+year&qid=1702533907&sprefix=wonder+year%2Caps%2C325&sr=8-1




Credits:
Host- David Cole
Guests: John Yates & Karen Yates
Announcer- Brodi Cole
Editor- David Cole
Theme Music: Ella Doran

♩ ♪ ♫ ♬
Travel the World was written and performed by Ella Doron for Helen Doron Teen English, for the Helen Doron Educational Group

Visit the ⁠Helen Doron Song Club ⁠ on YouTube for the full song
♩ ♪ ♫ ♬

Executive Summary:
The podcast tells the story of John and Karen, a married couple with two kids who decided to travel the world full-time after reaching a low point in their relationship. It covers how they prepared financially, got their kids on board, road schooled the children, dealt with accidents abroad, found purpose through travel, supported local communities, and made the lifestyle sustainable. Their story proves that with proper preparation and resourcefulness, full-time travel can be accessible for more families.

Action Steps/Key Insights/Takeaways:


Test your partner's openness to new lifestyle ideas if your relationship needs a change (00:05:15)
Dramatically reduce living expenses by traveling to lower cost of living countries (00:14:28)
Have multiple remote income streams as backup (00:15:05)
Let passions and interests drive children's education (00:26:11)
Prioritize relationships - don't let tension fester (00:53:13)
Interact with local communities for more fulfilling experiences (01:07:20)

Show Notes:

Introduction


John and Karen reached a low point in their marriage and needed a change (00:04:49)
A question about moving abroad led them to discover full-time travel (00:05:15)

Preparing To Travel


They saved aggressively and reduced expenses to fund a year of travel (00:14:23)
Created remote income streams as backup (00:14:59)
Involved their kids in the decision (00:09:31)

Hitting The Road


Early visa issue created setback but they persisted (00:47:52)
Spent extended time in Vietnam due to COVID (00:08:40)
Faced serious scooter accident but received care from strangers (00:42:29)

Family Travel Lifestyle


Kids favorite travel memories are normal activities made special by new locales (00:33:25)
They practice self-directed education focused on passions, not standardized curriculum (00:24:04)
Make relationship communication priority no matter what (00:53:13)

Giving Back


Built sustainable Etsy shop to support local Guatemalan woman (01:00:41)

Conclusion


Full-time travel can be affordable with strategic preparation and openness to alter lifestyles (01:08:45)



Here are some links to find and follow John and Karen.
https://www.etsy.com/shop/VibrantGuatemala
https://www.facebook.com/Karen.InspireMyMoney/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-yates/
Inspiremydreams.com

Credits:
Host- David Cole
Guests: John Yates & Karen Yates
Announcer- Brodi Cole
Editor- David Cole
Theme Music: Ella Doran

♩ ♪ ♫ ♬
Travel the World was written and performed by Ella Doron for Helen Doron Teen English, for the Helen Doron Educational Group

Visit the Helen Doron Song Club  on YouTube for the full song
♩ ♪ ♫ ♬

Lacy's story demonstrates the rewards of worldschooling, even as a single parent. Her top motivation was providing her daughters with a better education and quality of life. Traveling opened up abundant opportunities she never could have imagined while stuck in her old job and lifestyle. The experience has created an unbreakable bond and given her kids a broader perspective on the world. Lacy's example gives single parents everywhere permission to think outside the box. With some creativity and willingness to take a risk, you can craft the adventurous, fulfilling life you've always wanted.