Blessings and Motherhood

Join Ginny Tran and Delise Germond for a show that brings encouragement, and solidarity from a classical, Christian perspective; celebrating the blessings and challenges of motherhood in every season.

Raising Readers in a Digital Age with Lisa Bailey 02/27/2025

Raising Readers in a Digital Age with Lisa Bailey "Your children need you to love them. They need to know they are worthy of your time—that they are not a distraction from the important work you're doing, but they ARE the important work." Lisa Bailey shares this profound insight and more from her 21-year homeschooling journey. Discover her ingenious "Hot Chocolate Coffee Break" technique that transformed her parenting, gain perspective on raising children amidst today's digital distractions, and learn why relationship-building trumps educational perfection. Plus, stay for the exciting announcement that's bringing these two beloved podcasts together! Discover the joy of learning in arts-integrated classes that combine academic subjects with fine art. From cycle-specific history to biology to art history, our passionate teachers make learning creative, memorable, and fun! Registration is open now for summer and fall classes. Classical Conversations families enjoy $10 off any live class with the coupon code: CCFAM10OFF Visit www.delightfulartco.com and make learning delightful! /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/35471365

Navigating Big Feelings 02/13/2025

Navigating Big Feelings Looking for insights on emotional intelligence and parenting? Join Delise for a fascinating conversation with Noble Gibbons, the "EQ Gangster"! From West Point graduate to emotional intelligence coach, Noble shares his personal journey from being emotionally unaware to helping others develop emotional literacy. Learn practical tools like the "Gorilla APE" method and discover how to create an emotionally safe environment for your children - all while applying classical education principles to emotional growth. Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey. Register at /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/35270785

Keep it Simple! Essential Tips for Homeschooling with Jill Philbrick 01/30/2025

Keep it Simple! Essential Tips for Homeschooling with Jill Philbrick Can a simple stick in the sand really be all you need to teach your child? In this illuminating episode, Delise welcomes back special guest Jill Philbrick, a veteran homeschooling mom and long-time member of the Classical Conversations community. In this heartwarming episode, Jill shares her wisdom on finding God's presence in everyday moments through what she calls the "treasure hunt" of daily life. From examining rocks with curious children to discovering the beauty in simple teaching tools, Jill explores the powerful concept of "stick and sand" - a back-to-basics approach to education that reminds us that sometimes the simplest methods can be the most effective. Choice is good. A good choice is better. Therefore, choose better. Click here to learn more about Education Independence and join the Education Independence Network. We exist to educate, inspire, and equip members to promote and protect education independence in their local government. https://chooseeducationindependence.com/ /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/35074435

Speaking the Truth in Love with Lisa Whittle 01/16/2025

Speaking the Truth in Love with Lisa Whittle "Is it possible to over-emphasize Jesus to your kids?" Author Lisa Whittle tackles this provocative question and more in a candid conversation about faith-filled parenting. From launching adult children to teaching truth in love, Lisa shares hard-won wisdom from her motherhood journey while offering a sneak peek at her upcoming "Body and Soul" project that challenges cultural messages about our bodies through a biblical lens. https://www.lisawhittle.com/ /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/34872470

Falling In Love with The Arts with Courtney Sanford 01/02/2025

Falling In Love with The Arts with Courtney Sanford Looking for ways to nurture your child's creativity without stifling their natural genius? Join host Delise as she interviews Courtney Sanford, founder of The Delightful Art Co. and author of "Marvelous to Behold." A former graphic designer turned homeschool mom, Courtney shares her journey of integrating art education with classical learning, discusses creative approaches to teaching art to different types of learners, and offers practical advice for parents wanting to cultivate creativity in their children. https://www.delightfulartco.com/ Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey. Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/ /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/34696505

Is This Goodbye? 12/19/2024

Is This Goodbye? Big changes are coming to Blessings and Motherhood! Join hosts Delise and Jenny as they reminisce about favorite past episodes - from homeschooling wisdom with Jennifer Courtney to navigating family rhythms with Michelle Oliver - and share important updates about the future of the podcast. Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey. Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/ /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/34531610

Dear Santa... Please Check 'Yes' or 'No' (Re-Air) 12/05/2024

Dear Santa... Please Check 'Yes' or 'No' (Re-Air) In this special replay episode, co-hosts Delise and Ginny discuss different approaches to handling Santa Claus in Christian households. Using classical tools of learning, they explore personal experiences, faith perspectives, and how each family navigates the balance between holiday magic and biblical truth. The hosts share updates on how their approaches have evolved since the original episode aired last Christmas, including handling children's questions and maintaining wonder while staying true to their values. Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey. Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/ /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/34302810

How To Be Thankful In A Difficult Season 11/21/2024

How To Be Thankful In A Difficult Season How do you find gratitude when you're struggling? Ginny and Delise explore finding thankfulness in difficult seasons. Through meaningful Scripture passages from Nahum to James, they share personal experiences about waiting on God's timing, learning to be quick to listen but slow to speak, and the importance of community during challenging times. A perfect listen for anyone needing a reminder that the Lord remains good, even when circumstances feel anything but. Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey. Register at /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/34055421

What Every Mom Needs to Know with Amanda of Able Moms 11/07/2024

What Every Mom Needs to Know with Amanda of Able Moms When a routine grocery store trip turned into a mother's worst nightmare, it launched a mission to protect children from trafficking. Join us as Amanda Florczykowski shares her harrowing close call with child traffickers and how it inspired her to found Able Moms International and Vigilant Families. Now pursuing a master's in neuroscience and trauma, Amanda offers practical safety tips for parents while emphasizing the power of faith-based community in preventing exploitation. Celebrating together! Has your student or community done something noteworthy? We are collecting these stories, accomplishments, and events to celebrate and share the excitement of homeschooling. Please provide as much information as possible to completely tell the story. Share your story at . /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/33830237

Should Christians Celebrate Halloween? 10/24/2024

Should Christians Celebrate Halloween? Should Christians celebrate Halloween? Is Halloween bad for Christians? This is a conversation moms have with their families and friends every year. So today, Ginny Tran and Delise Germond are using the 15 Tools of Classical Learning to discuss their views on this area of Christian liberty. Please note that the thoughts expressed here are not intended to represent Classical Conversations as a company, but rather their personal views and approaches at this time. Thanks for joining in the conversation as we navigate the beautiful challenges of parenting, looking to Jesus each step of the way. Curious about homeschooling? Want to see Classical Conversations in action? Visit an Open House, where you’ll interact with parents, students, Tutors, and Directors in a local setting and discover the joy of our community-based approach. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience homeschooling in action! Find an Open House near you at https://classicalconversations.com/events/ /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/33589717

Thinking Logically with Kathy Gibbens 10/10/2024

Thinking Logically with Kathy Gibbens Are you equipping your kids to think clearly in a world filled with misinformation? Delise sits down with Kathy Gibbens, host of the Filter It Through a Brain Cell podcast. They dive into the importance of teaching children critical thinking and logical reasoning in today's world, discussing how to cultivate compassionate and empathetic thinkers. Plus, Kathy shares insights on AI and how it might impact the next generation's ability to discern truth. https://www.filteritthroughabraincell.com/ Discover the clarity you need to make the best decision for your family’s educational needs at one of our Information Meetings. Connect with experienced CC parents, learn about our unique classical, Christian programs, and find out if attending an Open House is your next step. Take control of your homeschooling journey by attending an Information Meeting. Find an Info Meeting near you at https://classicalconversations.com/events/ /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/33398292

Raising Independent Learners 09/26/2024

Raising Independent Learners Navigating the tension between encouraging independence and providing necessary support can be tricky for parents. Delise and Ginny explore the concept of independent learning in parenting. They discuss the balance between self-directed learning and the importance of community support, tackling common misconceptions and sharing practical tips. Copper Lodge Library offers a collection of stories presented in a beautiful series of books for the whole family to enjoy. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/ /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/33210392

Getting Back To Our Roots with Jennifer Courtney 09/12/2024

Getting Back To Our Roots with Jennifer Courtney Have you ever wondered where compulsory schooling originated? In this episode, Jennifer Courtney walks us through her classical, Christian education timeline, explaining how we got where we are today. Delise, Ginny, and Jennifer discuss the history of schooling and how you can be the best educator for your children. “How Should We Then Live?” – Francis Schaeffer The Great Brain series – John D. Fitzgerald That Hideous Strength – C. S. Lewis The Abolition of Man – C. S. Lewis Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having “conversations” with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.com/. /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/33021882

Why What and How We Eat Matters With Brandice Lardner 08/29/2024

Why What and How We Eat Matters With Brandice Lardner How should a Christian view food? Delise sits down with Brandice from Grace Filled Plate to discuss the powerful connection between faith and our relationship with food. Brandice shares her personal journey from struggling with disordered eating to finding true food freedom through her faith in God. Whether you’re a mom overwhelmed by meal prep or someone looking to deepen your spiritual life through daily habits, this conversation offers valuable insights and encouragement. The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having “conversations” with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at CopperLodgeLibrary.com. /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/32779447

Back To School #momsnewyear 08/15/2024

Back To School #momsnewyear We’re going back to school! Delise and Ginny dive into the back-to-school season, discussing how moms can embrace the changing seasons of life. They explore the challenges and joys of new beginnings, from transitioning between school stages to managing unexpected life changes, all while keeping faith at the center. New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/32580232

Will Homeschooling Ruin My Relationship With My Child? 08/01/2024

Will Homeschooling Ruin My Relationship With My Child? Join Delise and Ginny as they chat with Emily Philip, a veteran CC homeschooling mom. Emily shares her homeschooling journey with Classical Conversations, balancing life with four kids, and the joys of a supportive family. Gain practical tips, inspiration, and fun anecdotes from her story! Emily’s YouTube: The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their reading and thinking skills. Wide margins encourage note taking and having “conversations” with the book and its author. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at CopperLodgeLibrary.com. /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/32366607

State of the Year 07/18/2024

State of the Year Join Delise and Ginny as they reflect on the year so far. They chat about the ups and downs of parenting, the goals they've set and achieved, and the surprises along the way. Grab a coffee, and let's dive into heartfelt conversations that will encourage you and provide thoughtful questions to ponder with friends or family. New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at . /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/32189827

Moms And Mental Health 07/04/2024

Moms And Mental Health Get your tissues and confetti ready for this heartfelt episode that celebrates the highs and lows of parenting! Delise and Ginny chat with Jill Philbrick, a seasoned homeschooling mom with over 15 years of experience. Jill shares her inspiring journey, the challenges she faced, and how her faith and community helped her persevere. New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at . /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/31999897

Summertime Thoughts 06/20/2024

Summertime Thoughts Wondering how to make the most of your summer with your kids? Join Delise and Ginny for a treasure trove of ideas! They explore fun summer activities, from gardening and fort-building to creative indoor play and educational projects. Tune in for tips on maintaining structure while embracing spontaneity and creating magical moments with your children. CC International Video: New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Even in the less overtly religious poems of Sir Gawain and Canterbury Tales, readers find Christian themes like courage, forgiveness, and right use of power. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/31813722

Mama Bear Apologetics 06/06/2024

Mama Bear Apologetics Curious about how to navigate tough conversations with your kids? Join hosts Delise and Ginny as they chat with Lindsey Mendenwalt from Mama Bear Apologetics. Discover how to tackle challenging topics with your children through practical tips and insights on apologetics. At Classical Conversations®, we believe that parents can provide quality education for their children. Grow as the Lead Learner in your homeschool at classicalconversations.com/cohort. /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/31619847

Home Organization Tips with Mama Systems 05/23/2024

Home Organization Tips with Mama Systems Discover practical tips for organizing your home, embracing community, and understanding it’s okay to ask for help. Join us on “Blessings and Motherhood” as we chat with Laura Hernandez, founder of “Mama Systems.” Laura, a mom of ten, shares her journey of creating peace and intentionality in her busy household. More information about Great Wolf Lodge and Exclusive CC Discount Code found in the CC Connected Learning Center > Member Benefits and Additional Resources Document. /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/31422562

How to Cultivate Lifelong Relationships with Your Children with Connie Albers 05/09/2024

How to Cultivate Lifelong Relationships with Your Children with Connie Albers How do you create a healthy relationship with your child? Delise and Ginny sit down with homeschooling mentor Connie Albers to discuss building strong connections with our children. Connie provides practical insights into navigating the challenges of parenting, especially when dealing with resistant children. Tune in for valuable advice on fostering healthy relationships and effective communication with your kids at every stage of their development. Do you want to become a better everyday educator? Visit to find out when your local Practicum meets. /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/31207787

You Asked for It with Robert Bortins 04/25/2024

You Asked for It with Robert Bortins Get to know Classical Conversations’ CEO Robert Bortins! Delise, Ginny, and Robert dive into his personal life and what it was like being raised by the founder of Classical Conversations. They also answer questions that were sent in by listeners. Make April 26 a Family Day at theater! #UnsungHeroMovie opens everywhere beginning April 26. From the creators of Jesus Revolution comes Unsung Hero. Tickets on sale now. Visit . /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/30968793

Seeing God in Math 04/11/2024

Seeing God in Math Discover the surprising connection between math and God! In this episode, Delise and Ginny chat with Kirsty Gilpin, lead mathematician for The Math Map curriculum, about seeing God through math. Kirsty shares personal stories and insightful examples, revealing how mathematical concepts offer profound insights into the nature of God. You’re invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Register at . /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/30731673

Spring Favorites 03/28/2024

Spring Favorites Join Delise and Ginny as they share their current favorite activities and moments of joy. From embracing outdoor adventures to exploring the Psalms through devotional practices, they discuss various ways of learning and bonding as a family. Tune in for an uplifting discussion on finding joy in the simple moments of motherhood. Whether planning for an in-person trip or visiting from the comfort of your home, learn more about Classical Conversations at the Museum of the Bible by going to . /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/30570563

Pudewa Party, Anyone?! 03/14/2024

Pudewa Party, Anyone?! In this “Blessings and Motherhood” episode, Delise and Ginny discuss education and parenting with Andrew Pudewa, founder of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. They explore his insights on teaching writing, the importance of reading aloud to children, and practical tips for homeschooling parents. This enriching conversation offers encouragement and strategies for parents aiming to improve their children's reading and writing skills. Join other homeschool parents in your area at a 2024 Practicum event! /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/30360813

Understanding God's Heart for Israel 02/29/2024

Understanding God's Heart for Israel In this episode of “Blessings and Motherhood,” Delise and Ginny continue their talk with Sarah, focusing on faith, parenting, and combating anti-Semitism. Sarah discusses educating children on Jewish culture and the importance of understanding the Bible in its proper cultural context. This part deepens the first episode’s discussion, emphasizing faith’s role in understanding and addressing social issues. If you’re enjoying listening to Blessings and Motherhood, you might also enjoy our other Classical Conversations® podcasts! You can find these shows on your favorite podcast streaming app of choice, or by clicking on the links below. /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/30118713

The Kindness of Sabbath, Cultivating Spiritual Memory with Messianic Mom 02/15/2024

The Kindness of Sabbath, Cultivating Spiritual Memory with Messianic Mom In this episode of "Blessings and Motherhood," Sarah, a Jewish mom, shares her journey of integrating Jewish traditions with her Christian faith in parenting. She discusses the unique challenges and joys of Jewish motherhood, emphasizing the importance of embracing both sorrows and celebrations. Join us for a heartfelt conversation on faith, tradition, and the nuanced experiences of being a Jewish mother today. Resources: The Copper Lodge Library series from Classical Conversations® preserves history's best stories for future generations. View the library on . /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/29934383

Helping Children Manage their Emotions and More with Kamilah Carter 02/01/2024

Helping Children Manage their Emotions and More with Kamilah Carter Do your children struggle with understanding and managing emotions? In this “Blessings and Motherhood” episode, Kamilah Carter discusses her journey with homeschooling. She emphasizes the importance of community in education, setting appropriate boundaries, and nurturing individual relationships with each child. The conversation highlights the challenges and joys of parenting, advocating for a balance between recognizing children’s feelings and teaching them responsible emotional management. You’re invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Register at . /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/29718593

Fighting the Winter Blues - Know Your Why 01/18/2024

Fighting the Winter Blues - Know Your Why In this episode, Delise and Ginny discuss coping with the winter blues, offering practical tips like focusing on your parenting “why,” creating a peaceful home, and practicing gratitude. CC parents, tutors, and Directors—sign up for the Classical Learning Cohort to level up your skills in guiding and assessing your student’s learning at home and in community! Register today at . /episode/index/show/5f647100-2dd0-4c01-b2f2-092cbc904937/id/29496693

Blessings and Motherhood

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