It's Not That Hard to Homeschool

Homeschooling can be scary and overwhelming to think about, but it doesn't have to be that hard! Lisa has 25+ years of homeschooling experience, including graduating multiple kids. In this podcast, she will reassure you, inspire you, and empower you with the information you need to feel confident and successful as you homeschool your teen. Includes interviews with experts as well as their own practical advice.

The Trades Are Calling: Why College Isn’t the Only Smart Option Anymore 08/05/2025

The Trades Are Calling: Why College Isn’t the Only Smart Option Anymore Episode Summary College is a path—but it’s no longer the only path to a thriving future. In this episode, host Lisa Nehring breaks down why skilled trades (think welding, plumbing, HVAC, coding, and more) are exploding in demand and offer solid pay, zero college debt, and AI-proof job security. You’ll hear real-world salary numbers, success stories, and how True North Academy’s Trades & Tech Track can launch teens straight from high school into meaningful, well-paid work. Quick Listen Guide Timestamp Segment 0:00 Welcome & episode tease—“the trades are calling” 0:55 Sponsor Break: Medical Transcription work-from-home opportunity (email ) 2:15 Why skilled trades beat the outdated “college or bust” mindset 2:34 Josh’s story—$60K HVAC salary vs. debt-heavy communications degree 3:09 Eye-opening stats: 40 % college dropout rate, 650K+ trade openings 3:41 Salary snapshot: electricians $60K, plumbers $63K, HVAC $55–85K, welders $50–90K, diesel mechanics $57K, elevator installers $88K 4:07 “Golden Age of Trades”: why AI can’t crawl under a house to reroute a sewer line 5:03 Cost & timeline to certify (many in 6–12 months; paid apprenticeships available) 6:05 Inside True North Academy’s Trades & Tech Track—two-year fast track, cognia-accredited diploma, hands-on academics 6:47 Ava’s story—19-year-old welder earning $58K and saving to start her own shop 7:31 Signs your teen might be born for the trades (and how to support them) 7:47 Call to action: Learn more at 8:07 Closing encouragement & share request Key Takeaways Trades are booming: 650,000+ skilled-trade jobs are open in the U.S., many with starting salaries above $50K and strong growth projections. Faster, cheaper path: Most certifications take < 1 year; many employers pay you to learn via apprenticeships. AI-proof careers: Robots can draft an email, but they can’t fix a diesel engine or install solar panels on your roof. Debt-free launch: Skip six years of college and tens of thousands in loans—start earning while your peers are still in lecture halls. True North Academy solution: The Trades & Tech Track pairs accredited academics with hands-on trade exploration, preparing students for immediate entry into high-demand fields or further certification/associate degrees. Links & Resources 🔧 True North Academy Trades & Tech Track: 📚 Mike Rowe Works Foundation Scholarships: 🗓️ Free Webinar—Medical Transcription from Home: email for details Connect With Us Website: Facebook Group: It’s Not That Hard to Homeschool High School Instagram: @NotThatHardToHomeschool If this episode challenged your thinking, share it with a friend and leave a review—it helps more homeschool families discover fresh paths to success! Keywords: trades education, skilled trades careers, homeschool high school, alternative to college, True North Academy, welding salary, HVAC apprenticeship, AI-proof jobs, homeschool podcast /episode/index/show/homeschool-high-school/id/37694225

The College Dilemma: Why Dual Degrees & Trades May Beat the Traditional Path 07/31/2025

The College Dilemma: Why Dual Degrees & Trades May Beat the Traditional Path Episode Sponsor CTC Math – The no-prep, self-paced homeschool math curriculum that takes the pressure off parents and actually makes sense to kids. Try it free at ctcmath.com. Episode Snapshot College costs are soaring, ideological climates are shifting, and more students than ever are graduating late—or not at all—with mountains of debt. In this candid info-session, Lisa Nehring (director of True North Academy) unpacks the “college dilemma” and lays out two practical alternatives: Dual Degree High School – earn an accredited bachelor’s while you finish high school. Tech & Trades Diploma – a two-year fast-track that marries solid academics with apprenticeship-ready skills. Along the way she tackles FAFSA headaches, the national trades shortage, protecting your teen’s faith on campus, and how True North’s advising team walks families through every step. Key Takeaways Sticker Shock: College tuition up 20 % in 10 years; textbooks up 400 %. Average in-state cost now ~$28K/yr; many privates top $65K. Debt Trap: U.S. student-loan debt = $1.1 trillion; deregulated lenders can capitalize unpaid interest during forbearance, ballooning balances. Completion Crisis: Average time to a bachelor’s is 6 years; >50 % of freshmen never finish. Ideological Pressure: 70 % of incoming evangelical students renounce faith by Thanksgiving of freshman year; many never return. Trades Opportunity: 7 million skilled-trade openings now; projected shortfall of 2 million more by 2030. Starting wages often $18–$30/hr with zero college debt. True North Solutions: Dual Degree: 120 credits + high-school diploma, fully Cognia-accredited, ESA/and may be 529-eligible, no debt. Tech & Trades: 22 HS credits in two years, core academics + life & soft-skills, direct links to vetted apprenticeships (HVAC, electrical, auto, welding & more). Mix-and-Match: Students can start with trades and layer on the dual degree—or vice versa—based on goals. Support Built In: Dedicated advisors, robust LMS “virtual campus,” study-guide-plus-exam model (re-takeable), and a Christ-centered worldview throughout. Timestamp Guide Time Segment 00:00 Sponsor message – CTC Math 01:05 Lisa’s intro & credentials (5 graduate degrees + 30 yrs homeschooling) 05:20 What’s changed since 2020: rising costs & ideological shift 10:40 The true price tag: tuition, textbooks, student-loan traps 17:15 Why so many students need remediation & still drop out 22:50 Faith on campus: statistics that should sober parents 27:30 Trades shortage by the numbers – and why it matters 31:45 Dual Degree vs. Dual Credit: critical differences 36:10 Inside True North’s Dual Degree structure (10 classes/yr) 42:05 Tech & Trades Diploma overview & first-year core 46:30 Q&A: transferring credits, finding apprenticeships, combining paths 53:10 Next steps & free advising call (Times are approximate – use your podcast player’s chapter markers.) Memorable Quote “Why pay for extra years of school when your teen can graduate with no debt, real-world skills, and a degree in hand before their peers even move into the dorms?” Resources & Links True North Academy Dual Degree Program – Details, sample course map, FAQs Tech & Trades Diploma – Curriculum snapshot & tuition info Free PDF: College Dilemma Checklist (QR code shared during the info meeting) Schedule a 15-minute advising call (no cost) Book recommendation: The Defining Decade by Dr. Meg Jay Dave Ramsey video on student-loan forbearance pitfalls (All links available in the episode description.) Ready to explore a dual-degree or trades track for your teen? Book a free advising session with True North Academy today and discover a path that fits your family’s budget, timeline, and values. /episode/index/show/homeschool-high-school/id/37622625

Thinking About Homeschooling? Transcripts, Skills, and Future-Ready 07/09/2025

Workshop Replay: The Fourth Industrial Revolution and the Future of Homeschooling 06/30/2025

Workshop Replay: The Fourth Industrial Revolution and the Future of Homeschooling Overview: This workshop outlines how the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)—defined by rapid advancements in AI, robotics, biotech, and digital technologies—is disrupting every aspect of life, including education and work. As homeschooling parents, we have a powerful opportunity to prepare our children not just for a diploma, but for an adaptable, resilient, and purpose-driven life. 🏭 The Four Industrial Revolutions 1st IR (1760–1840): Steam and mechanization revolutionized travel and work. 2nd IR (1870–1914): Mass production and electricity; origins of the factory-model education system. 3rd IR (1969–2000s): Computers and automation changed everything again. 4th IR (2010–Present): Driven by AI, IoT, robotics, biotech, and a global gig economy. 📉 Disruption in Higher Education College closures are increasing due to demographic decline and declining enrollment. Over 50% of students drop out of college. Online education grew from a $2.1B industry in 2020 to $800B+ and counting. Ivy League and higher ed models are under pressure, redefining “college readiness.” 🧠 Rising Economies & Fastest-Growing Jobs Six Emerging Fields: AI & Machine Learning Precision Medicine & Biotechnology Emotional Intelligence & Human-Centered Design Renewable Energy & Smart Infrastructure Advanced Manufacturing & Robotics Digital Economy & Cybersecurity Future Jobs: AI Ethics Officer Digital Detox Consultant Cybersecurity Analyst Green Energy Tech Virtual Habitat Designer Time Management Coach for AI-Augmented Workers …and more 🎓 What This Means for Homeschooling We must shift from: 📚 “College-Ready” → 🎯 “Future-Ready” 🏫 Factory-model academics → 🛠️ Skill-based, personalized education Focus Areas for Homeschooling Success: Critical Thinking Creativity (with structured practice) Communication (written & verbal persuasion) Collaboration (in a global gig economy) Autodidactic Learning Entrepreneurial Mindset 💡 Best Practices for Parents Encourage hands-on projects and cross-disciplinary learning. Teach kids how to learn, not just what to learn. Create opportunities for real-world skills and responsibility. Develop digital and human skills. Delay tech exposure until foundational habits and values are established. Instill integrity, resilience, and leadership grounded in purpose and faith. 💬 Key Takeaways Don’t panic—prepare. Future-ready kids are thinkers, creators, and collaborators. The best way to predict the future is to help your child create it. /episode/index/show/homeschool-high-school/id/37225070

What About These Times? Why World Geography Matters More Than Ever 06/27/2025

🎙️ Rethinking College: Smart Alternatives for Homeschoolers 06/24/2025

🎙️ Rethinking College: Smart Alternatives for Homeschoolers 🎙️ Rethinking College: Smart Alternatives for Homeschoolers Podcast: It's Not That Hard to Homeschool Host: Lisa Nehring Sponsored by: 🎧 Episode Summary In this episode, Lisa Nehring encourages homeschool parents to rethink the college experience and consider smarter, more affordable alternatives that align with their students' values, goals, and future career prospects. Lisa shares why the traditional 4-year college pathway is no longer the default and how families can save thousands by combining dual enrollment, CLEP, and strategic degree planning—all while preparing students with real-world, marketable skills for the digital economy. 🔑 Key Takeaways 📉 The College Shift: Post-pandemic, many colleges have lost value, raised prices, and shifted away from skills-based education and community-building. 💸 Cost vs. ROI: Most students graduate in 6 years with $30K+ in debt. Without a clear vocational plan, this can be a poor investment. 🎯 Smarter Strategy: Use dual enrollment + CLEP exams to earn transferable college credits early. 🧾 Gen Ed Blueprint: Focus on Composition I/II, College Algebra, Intro Sciences, Social Sciences, and Diversity classes. 🏛️ CLEP-Friendly Colleges: Consider “The Big Three” — Thomas Edison, Excelsior, Charter Oak — for flexible, affordable, accredited degrees. 💡 Alternative Paths: Entrepreneurship, online business, and skills-based certifications offer legitimate, lower-cost career readiness. 💻 Tools + Programs from True NorthAcademy 🎓 🔎 Career Exploration Course 🛠️ High school electives with real-world skills: Entrepreneurship, Photoshop, Video Editing, and more. 📚 – career-track guides (law, mental health, health occupations, and more) 📌 Quotes to Remember “College should be pursued with clarity, focus, and financial wisdom—not just because it’s what everyone else is doing.” “Help your kids develop ‘otherness’—unique skills and experiences that stand out on applications and in life.” “It's time to rethink college as one of many viable paths, not the only ticket to success.” Be sure to subscribe and leave a review for It's Not That Hard to Homeschool. Every share helps us grow and continue providing high-impact support for homeschool families. /episode/index/show/homeschool-high-school/id/36942840

Identity Tools: Teaching Kids How to Think 06/10/2025

Identity Tools: Teaching Kids How to Think Sponsor Shout-Out: Homeschooling math doesn’t have to end in tears—yours or your kids'. Our favorite math solution? CTC Math. With short, clear video lessons and a self-paced, no-prep format, it’s the curriculum we wish we’d started with sooner. Try it free at – and breathe easier. Episode Summary: In this lively episode, Lisa and Gina—your trusty admin team from It's Not That Hard to Homeschool—tackle a big question that’s come up often in our community: How do you teach your kids how to learn? The answer? The Five Common Topics—a powerful, flexible tool you can use across all grade levels and subjects to help your kids think critically and learn independently. Whether you’re homeschooling one child or ten, this method is a game changer. Key Takeaways: ✅ What are the Five Common Topics? Originating from classical education and rooted in Aristotelian thought, these are: Definition – Start by clarifying terms to prevent miscommunication and build deeper understanding. Comparison – Explore similarities and differences to build critical thinking muscles. Relationship – Examine how people, places, and ideas relate. Circumstance – Understand context: time, place, and surrounding events. Authority – Identify where truth or information is coming from—and why it matters. 🎓 Gina shares how this tool naturally aligned with her Principle Approach to homeschooling and became central to teaching her kids to reason biblically and think independently. 📚 Real-world application examples: from WWI history to college debate frustrations, to understanding family dynamics and even dinner-table conversations. 🔁 Lisa gives practical ideas for using the Five Common Topics to make textbook learning deeper and more personalized—even with a unit study on trebuchets! Resources Mentioned: 🛠️ Grab the eBook: Five Common Topics: Not So Common Anymore – available at 💡 CTC Math Free Trial: Final Encouragement: The Five Common Topics aren't just for school—they're life tools. Equip your kids to think, reason, and engage with the world around them. And don't be surprised when these conversations continue into adulthood! 💬 Got questions or feedback? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! /episode/index/show/homeschool-high-school/id/36941870

The Academic Fix for Teen Anxiety and Identity Confusion 06/02/2025

The One Tool Every Homeschooler Needs to Teach Critical Thinking 05/30/2025

College Is Changing—Is Your Teen Ready for What’s Next? 05/29/2025

Credits Are the Currency of High School—Here’s How to Make Every Hour Count 05/28/2025

Anxiety Is Rising—Here’s One Simple, Proven Way to Help Your Teen 05/27/2025

The #1 Skill Teens Need That’s NOT on the Transcript 05/26/2025

The Money Mindset That Sets Teens Up for Success 05/24/2025

The #1 Habit Teens Need Before 20 (That Most Don’t Learn) 05/23/2025

The Power of Networking: Preparing Teens for a Strong Start in Their 20s 05/22/2025

The Defining Decade: How to Set Your Teen Up for a Thriving 20s 05/21/2025

The Hidden Factor in Choosing to Homeschool: Social Role Selection 05/20/2025

The Hidden Factor in Choosing to Homeschool: Social Role Selection 🎙️ Episode Title: The Hidden Factor in Choosing to Homeschool: Social Role Selection 📝 Show Notes: In this episode of Not That Hard to Homeschool, Lisa Nehring uncovers a concept you've likely experienced—even if you’ve never had a name for it: social role selection. It's the reason why many families—both decades ago and today—decide to homeschool their children. Lisa shares insights from her master’s thesis, exploring how social dynamics in school settings—bullying, exclusion, pecking order, and even being overlooked—push many families to seek something better. She explains: ✅ What social role selection is (and why it matters) ✅ Why parents want more authentic, empowering social environments for their kids ✅ How homeschooling, online learning, and hybrid options give families agency over their child’s social development ✅ Why academic skills, soft skills, and social role selection are the three pillars of a solid education From Elon Musk’s rapid innovation mindset to the value of logic, Latin, and collaboration, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration for homeschool families seeking to prepare their kids for success in the real world—without sacrificing their well-being. 💡 Key Takeaways: Traditional schools often force kids to self-navigate toxic social hierarchies Homeschooling allows families to intentionally curate their child’s social and educational environment Kids need more than academics—they need critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity True North Online Academy is designed to support all three pillars: academic, soft skills, and healthy social development 📚 Mentioned Resources: [Biographies & Memoirs Class for Future Leaders] [Middle & High School Logic Courses] [Dual Degree Info Meeting Registration Link – Coming Soon!] 👥 Join the Conversation: Thinking about homeschooling or switching up your child’s educational environment? This episode will give you a framework to think more clearly—and confidently—about what really matters. 🎧 Listen Now and start reimagining education through the lens of purpose-driven social and academic development. /episode/index/show/homeschool-high-school/id/36644855

Duty, Deployment & Daily Lessons: Homeschooling as a Military Family 05/06/2025

How to Homeschool Elementary—It’s Really Not That Hard (Replay) 04/23/2025

How to Homeschool Elementary—It’s Really Not That Hard (Replay) 🎙️ Not That Hard to Homeschool Podcast Episode Title: How to Homeschool Elementary—It’s Really Not That Hard Host: Lisa Nehring Episode Type: Replay 💬 Episode Summary In this episode, Lisa Nehring breaks down the essentials of homeschooling elementary-aged kids. With over 30 years of homeschooling experience, Lisa shares practical advice, developmental insights, and real-life examples to help you build a strong, confident foundation for your child’s early education. Whether you're new to homeschooling or simply need encouragement and structure, this episode is filled with wisdom and actionable tips. 📌 Topics Covered Why elementary school is the perfect place to start homeschooling Understanding your role as parent and educator How to balance tasks and relationships in your homeschool day Fun vs. fulfillment in early education A simple and flexible daily homeschool schedule The five pillars of elementary education: Language Literacy (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening) Arithmetic (Fluency, Story Problems, Math Facts) Memory Work (Why it matters and how to make it fun) Work & Play (Chores, Outdoor Time, Imagination & Life Skills) Faith Formation (Discipleship, Bible Reading, Conversations of Belief) 🧠 Key Takeaways Elementary-aged kids are experiencing the world for the first time—make room for wonder and repetition. You’re not just keeping your child safe—you’re introducing them to the world. Strong literacy and numeracy are the two primary goals for elementary school. Fun matters, but so does fulfillment—find ways to incorporate both. Set rhythms, not rigid schedules—especially if you’re balancing work and homeschool. Don’t skip memory work—it helps form the foundation for long-term academic success. Don’t be afraid to teach your child life skills and faith at an early age—they’re ready! 📚 Resources Mentioned – Live online classes, academic testing, and more. Free Workshop: What Does a Homeschooler Actually Do? Recommended Curricula: Alpha Phonics – Phonics instruction RightStart Math – Math with manipulatives and games Perplexors by MindWare – Deductive reasoning puzzles 🔍 Connect with Lisa & True North Visit: Contact: Social: @truenorthhomeschoolacademy on Facebook and Instagram 🎧 Listen & Subscribe Never miss an episode! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and join our homeschool community of real parents raising real kids—without losing your mind. /episode/index/show/homeschool-high-school/id/36282785

Out With The Old & In With The New 03/05/2025

Peaceful Homeschooling: Heal Your Home's Educational Chaos 02/04/2025

Layers of Learning: Beyond the One-and-Done Approach 01/21/2025

Cheryl Daley on Why She Chose Homeschooling. 01/08/2025

Surprising Trends Reshaping Education: Are you ready? 01/02/2025

The God-Shaped Brain: Dr. Jennings on Neuroscience, Faith, & Learning 12/24/2024

The SAMR Model Cont. - Modication and Reinvention Part: 2 12/11/2024

Are You Preparing Your Teens for a Future That’s Already Here? 12/10/2024

Are You Preparing Your Teens for a Future That’s Already Here? Are You Preparing Your Teens for a Future That’s Already Here? Discover why traditional paths to success no longer work and how homeschooling parents like you are ahead of the curve in preparing kids for an unprecedented future. Lisen now to learn actionable steps and grab your audio resource from 'It’s Not That Hard to Homeschool' to help your teens thrive in this rapidly changing world. Episode Summary: In a world where technology, education, and the economy are evolving at lightning speed, traditional paths to success are quickly becoming outdated. From Elon Musk’s groundbreaking brain chip to the Carnegie Foundation questioning the very foundation of credit-based education, these changes demand a new approach to preparing our kids for the future. In this episode, Lisa Nehring dives deep into the unprecedented challenges and opportunities facing today’s young adults—and how homeschooling parents are uniquely positioned to help their children thrive. Learn the skills your teens need to navigate a rapidly shifting world, including self-agency, integrated identity, and real-world competencies. Whether you're just starting your homeschool journey or looking for new ways to equip your teens for success, this episode will leave you inspired and informed. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why traditional measures of success, like credits and degrees, are being re-evaluated. The top skills every young adult needs to thrive in today’s world: Self-agency: Empowering teens to take control of their lives and decisions. Integrated identity: Helping teens form a cohesive understanding of their values and beliefs. Competencies: Building real-world skills that go beyond academics. How the rise of technology and AI is reshaping the job market and daily life. Practical tips for homeschooling parents to prepare their teens for a future of unprecedented change. Resources Mentioned: Connect With Us: Website: Twitter: Don’t Miss Out! Subscribe to the podcast for weekly episodes packed with insights, tips, and encouragement for homeschooling parents. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review—it helps other parents find us and join our community. /episode/index/show/homeschool-high-school/id/34364030

The SAMR Model Cont. - Modication and Reinvention Part: 1 11/26/2024

The Game Changing SAMR Model 11/12/2024

It's Not That Hard to Homeschool

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