85. Umbrella Schools, Homeschooling Teens, and Building Community: Interview with Statheros Academy Founder: Colleen Prayne
Release Date: 02/03/2025
110. From Unschooler to Entrepreneur: Interview with Amanda Schenkenberger
School to Homeschool
What happens when a homeschooled girl grows up to become a homeschooling mom? In this deeply inspiring episode, we talk with Amanda Schenkenberger—author, speaker, and homeschool mentor—about her full-circle journey from being raised on a ranch by a deaf father to creating peaceful, flexible homeschool routines for her own kids. Amanda opens up about: Growing up in a unique household and how her upbringing shaped her resilience Transitioning from rigid homeschool curricula to a Charlotte Mason-inspired, wonder-filled approach Battling self-doubt, emotional burnout, and the isolation...
info_outline
109. Reclaiming the Hearts of Your Children
School to Homeschool
Are your kids drifting more toward their peers than toward you? In this episode, we dive into how to build lasting emotional connection with your children by prioritizing parental attachment over peer orientation—a concept championed by experts like Dr. Gordon Neufeld and Dr. Gabor Maté. We share real-life stories from our homeschool journey, raising stepchildren, and overcoming attachment challenges that so many modern families face. Learn how peer pressure quietly steals influence from parents—and what you can do to reclaim your role as the secure base your child needs. 🔎 In this...
info_outline
108. Living in the Moment: The Gift of Presence
School to Homeschool
Ever found yourself scrolling on your phone while your child eagerly shares their day with you? I've been there, and the realization hit hard. Drawing from personal experiences and the wisdom of Carl Honoré and Dr. Hannah Yang, I share moments when distractions took center stage over being truly present with my family. We explore how liberating ourselves from the anxieties of the future and past regrets can transform our connections. 🔔 Subscribe + Follow for more! If you're a faith-driven mom exploring homeschooling, unschooling, or personalized learning, this show is for you....
info_outline
107. Why School Fails — And What Families Can Do Now...With Matt Bowman, Founder of OpenEd
School to Homeschool
Is traditional school no longer working for your child? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Matt Bowman, former teacher and co-founder of OpenEd (formerly MyTechHigh), to explore how personalized, project-based education can give families real freedom. We dive into how Matt and his wife Amy built a learning model that honors kids' creativity, family values, and faith — all while breaking free from the one-size-fits-all system. Whether you’re exploring homeschooling, unschooling, or just need a better option, this episode will inspire you to take the lead. 👉 Discover how...
info_outline
106. Minimalist Homeschooling & Just-In-Time Learning
School to Homeschool
Discover how minimalist homeschooling can bring more peace, clarity, and purpose to your family’s education journey. This episode explores the power of just-in-time learning—an approach that emphasizes core skills, real-world readiness, and student-led discovery. Whether you're an unschooler, a new homeschool parent, or rethinking traditional education, you'll learn: How to simplify your homeschool environment The benefits of “learning as needed” vs. preparing for every scenario Why kids thrive with freedom, flexibility, and fewer distractions The connection between minimalism,...
info_outline
THROWBACK INTERVIEW with Connor Boyack: Author of the Tuttle Twins
School to Homeschool
THROWBACK EPISODE: Ever wonder how early education can shape the future thinkers of our society? This episode welcomes Connor Boyack, a prolific author, public speaker, TV show producer, and the founder and president of Libertas Institute, who explores this question with us. Connor shares his inspiring journey from web development to establishing Libertas Institute and authoring the Tuttle Twins children's series, which brings complex concepts of economics, politics, and civics down to a level young minds can grasp. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the importance of fostering...
info_outline
THROWBACK INTERVIEW: Nicole Shiffler on Unschooling
School to Homeschool
New episodes and a NEW Season coming in July! In the meantime, enjoy this throwback interview with the AMAZING Unschooling Mama and Founder of Empowered Homeschool Club, Nicole Shiffler! Link to hear Caroline Shiffler's song: To Reach Nicole: Authors Referred to in this Episode: *Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links. *Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links. CONNECT with US Contact Janae: [email protected]
info_outline
105. Why Children Need Fairy Tales!
School to Homeschool
Can fairy tales really shape a child's moral compass? Join me as we navigate the enchanting realm of classic fairy tales, inspired by literary giants like Dr. Vigen Guroian and Bruno Bettelheim. We'll unravel the mysteries behind these timeless stories and their profound influence on nurturing a child's moral imagination, contrasting the enduring narratives of the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen with their modern retellings. To ensure you're reading the most authentic versions, I'll share my top recommendations for fairy tale collections and translations. You'll find guidance on...
info_outline
104. Joshua Graduated! PART 2
School to Homeschool
Joshua GRADUATED!!! Join us in part 2 as we talk to our first homeschool graduate! Yes, unschoolers can graduate! Yes, they can have great lives! Let's chat with Joshua and get his perspective! I apologize for the audio on this one! I am travelling and the mic was NOT having it! *Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links. CONNECT with US Contact Janae: [email protected]
info_outline
103. Homeschool Summer They'll Never Forget | Rest, Joy & Learning in One Magical Season
School to Homeschool
Could you create a summer for your homeschooling family that’s both restful and magical? By choosing meaningful activities, embracing cherished traditions, and keeping things simple, you can craft a summer that you’ll look back on with satisfaction. *Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links. CONNECT with US Contact Janae: [email protected]
info_outlineWe have the pleasure of speaking with Colleen Prayne, founder of Statheros Academy and host of the Essence of Homeschooling podcast. Colleen shares her heartfelt journey into the world of homeschooling. Our conversation touches on the concept of an umbrella school and how many homeschooling families, including Colleen's, tend to embrace an eclectic approach over time.
Join us as we explore the significance of creating an inclusive homeschool community. Colleen discusses the challenges of feeling like an outsider and the importance of building connections within the homeschooling world. For introverted parents, stepping out of one's comfort zone is essential for the development of their children, and we emphasize the value of not homeschooling alone. We introduce the idea of an umbrella school in the context of Colorado's homeschool laws, offering a supportive structure for families. Our discussion highlights the role of experienced homeschool coaches in providing one-on-one support and services to ensure families feel supported throughout their journey.
In this episode, we also navigate the intricacies of homeschooling through high school and preparing for college. With potential insights from a high school specialist, we discuss handling transcripts, college prep, and admissions, ensuring detailed information and comprehensive course descriptions. We consider the unique experiences and challenges of parenting homeschooled teens, focusing on fostering critical thinking skills and strong, opinionated adults. The conversation also touches on the evolving dynamics of parent-child relationships, particularly as children transition into adulthood. Throughout, we underscore the empowerment and support available within the homeschooling community, reassuring families of their capability to succeed with the right mindset and resources.
Private Mentoring with Janae: Schedule a Free Discovery Call
Etsy Store: Shop for Homeschooling Swag
*Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links.
CONNECT with US
Join the Private Facebook Group
Connect and follow along with Janae’s Journey on Instagram @janae.daniels
Learn more about School to Homeschool
Contact Janae: [email protected]