What’s a “capstone event”? What’s a “Mock Trial”? Inquiring minds want to know, and answers are just a listen away. Join Lisa as Academic Advisor Emily Martin provides the “why” “what” and “how” of Challenge B’s Mock Trial project.  Find out how to help your student embrace all this event has to offer, sharpen their thinking skills, and develop the confidence that doing hard things brings.

Parent Practicum events are hosted around the globe each year, inspiring and equipping parents to become better “everyday educators.” Combining the encouragement of community, integration of ideas, and practice with the classical skills, Parent Practicum is a once-a-year parent investment. Let us help you find a Parent Practicum event near you at www.ccpracticum.com

Classical educators read A LOT!  Our students also read a lot and are introduced to a myriad of characters through the years.  As parents and students discuss these books and characters, we may find that we’ve learned more than we realized about human nature in general and ourselves in particular.  Listen to this episode with Stephanie Meter, Exposition Developer, as she shares how stories pass on insights that surface when we need it.

Parent Practicum events are hosted around the globe each year, inspiring and equipping parents to become better “everyday educators.” Combining the encouragement of community, integration of ideas, and practice with the classical skills, Parent Practicum is a once-a-year parent investment.

Let us help you find a Parent Practicum event near you at www.ccpracticum.com

The homeschooling journey may look different for every family; it may indeed be like a kaleidoscope, changing the view as you “change the filter”!  Sometimes it helps to hear from others on the same path.  This episode introduces you to Charity Brown and Delise Germond, two homeschool moms on different ends of the journey.  Listen, and be encouraged.

 Life is busy! Download audio versions of the articles from the Catalog and listen while you’re in the car, working out, or forward an episode to a friend. 
To listen to articles that will equip and encourage you no matter where you are in your homeschooling journey go to ClassicalConversations.com/Catalog-Articles

Guest host Delise Germond invites Lisa Bailey to share the Why, the What, and the What Next about CC’s newest resource, Scribblers At Home:  Recipes from Lifelong Learners.  Listen in and hear about the beginnings of Scribblers, the behind-the-scenes stories, and the features that will make learning together easy for families.  Scribblers at Home is ready to be delivered to your door now, so visit classicalconversationsbooks.com and order your copy today.

Why did God give your children to you?  What does He want you to tell them?  Show them?  Do alongside them?  At Classical Conversations, we believe God trusts parents with their children!  Charity Brown and her husband believe they’ve been called primarily to shepherd the hearts of their children toward God.  Listen to hear just what things look like in their home…

What are your most memorable homeschooling moments?  What do you want your children to remember about your home and the learning you do together?  Join Lisa today as she talks to Chelly Barnard about the best ways to cultivate the memories we want to keep!  Chelly provides an honest look back at what worked, what didn’t, and what she finally decided were the most important memories to make.

What’s “Protocol” all about?  Is it just about good manners and fancy outings?  ABSOLUTELY NOT!  Listen as guest Sarah Davis breaks it down for us, sharing how Protocol is actually about honor, mercy, grace, and loving your neighbor.  “It’s not about ‘putting on airs’, but about elevating the people you’re with!”

What do you wish you knew about Challenge B?  About Challenge B students?  About Mock Trial?  This week’s guest offers a wealth of insight from a lifetime of experience!  Join host Lisa Bailey as she talks to Stephanie Meter about how Mock Trial is actually the perfect capstone to the Challenge B year, synthesizing the skills of Challenge B in a way that transforms the students.

Have you ever asked yourself this question:  “Why should I consider homeschooling?”  The purpose we assign to education will often answer the question for us!  But…are we practicing what we preach?  How can we practically align our purposes with our daily routines, our lesson plans, even our assessments?  Listen in as guest Julie Melendez and host Lisa Bailey offer honest testimony to what this can and does look like at home.

If you’re intrigued by the bits and pieces you’ve recently heard about Scribblers At Home:  Recipes from Lifelong Learners, you will definitely want to listen to this episode!  Amy Jones joins Lisa as they share how Scribblers sets families up to delight in learning together. All of us “want to do it right” when it comes to educating our kids; Scribblers gives us ideas and encouragement to create natural and winsome ways to learn together at home.

Do you know someone who is considering joining a Classical Conversations community?  This episode of the Everyday Educator will answer so many “why” and “what” questions for potential families!  Denise Moore shares the real reasons families get involved, and what the real benefits are to those who invest in a CC journey. Beyond that, Denise’s honest reflections remind us ALL of why we want to be involved, and how we are parents are benefiting!  

If you’re looking for a quick overview of the CC Challenge program, or if you’ve ever wondered which challenge is the BEST, this episode of the Everyday Educator has the information you’re looking for!  Listen as Tim Knotts, Heatherly Sylvia, and Karin Carpenter advocate for their favorite Challenge, giving us all insights into the fun parts, the stretching parts, and the family blessing of each of our Challenge levels.

Have you ever thought, “What’s the big deal about memorizing anyway?”  This episode of the Everyday Educator Podcast will shed some light on this question!  Listen in as Kelli Wilt and Olivia Walsh share how memory is something to be celebrated by all of us; they’ll also give us the details of what a Memory Master is, what a NATIONAL Memory Master is, and what blessings families can find from pursuing each!  Bonus:  hot-off-the-press details on how to get involved in the 2023 National Memory Master Competition!

Looking for a great family read aloud this Advent season?  Or a family-friendly movie to take in?  Listen in to this review of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!  A favorite read for years, a new version of the movie is in theaters now.  A few faithful fans (and CC moms!) have some heartfelt reasons to recommend it to your family!

 Kick off the Christmas season with a heartwarming story that captures the true joy and meaning of Christmas. Filled with laughter, unforgettable moments, and a message of love and grace, this movie will remind you that no one is beyond the reach of hope.

Bring the whole family and don’t miss out—see The Best Christmas Pageant Ever on the big screen now in theatres! Buy Tickets Here

Here in the winter months, after the fun of the holidays, the homeschool days can seem looooong.  It is easy to forget that we are not alone on this journey!  We all have a CC story to share, and hearing about someone else’s journey feeds our community mindset.  Listen in this week as international homeschoolers (and Country Coordinators) Koreen Mazurek and Dawna Ferguson share how running toward something instead of away from something makes homeschooling a richer experience—wherever you are!

New Years, for most of us, means new beginnings. Whether it's a new goal or recommitment to a habit we're already cultivating, New Years acts as a marker for us to turn over a new leaf. This week Lisa is joined by Kelli Wilt to discuss what it means to "raise adults," and explore what it looks like beginning with the end in mind.

Please enjoy this special holiday re-run of one of our most downloaded episodes. 

One of the more profound lessons “from down the road” may well be that there is more to homeschooling than academic pursuits.  Join veteran homeschool moms Shelly Stockton and Lisa Bailey as they discuss building character, spiritual habits, relational maturity, and practical life skills while living and learning at home with their girls.  Discover how a classical education lived out in community (both home and CC) provides the environment for learning the biggest lessons of life.

In this final Advent episode, join Lisa as she considers how God spoke all the love languages as He become Emmanuel.  Consider with your family how God incarnate has come to you—and how you might live Him before your neighbors this Christmas! 

In this third Advent devotional, host Lisa Bailey encourages us to consider that joy is a choice.  What allows us to choose joy when life’s circumstances dictate otherwise?  How can we express joy amid burdens?  Mary had the answer; listen in and be blessed.  This would be a great family listen…

Join Lisa for this second Advent episode, calling us to embrace the Peace of Christmas.  Take a break (even with your family) to think about how becoming an ambassador of peace fulfills our mission to know God and to make Him known!

Join us all month for this series of Advent thoughts, perfect for provoking thoughts that turn our Christmas preparations to Jesus.  In this first episode, discover an interesting connection between forest fires, birds, and the hope of Christmas.

Families, if you’re looking for a way to pass the time “on the way to Grandmother’s house” this year, give a listen to this Thanksgiving episode of The Everyday Educator!  You’ll enjoy poems, Scripture, a few jokes, and the audio version of an oldie but goodie:  “The Truth About Thanksgiving”. It’s our family’s gift to yours!

Is assessing ever a blessing??  According to guest Kelli Wilt, that depends on your perspective!  Join host Lisa Bailey as Kelli shares how Blue Book exams can be a celebration of what we know, and an opportunity to indulge in some deep conversations.  Parents, you’ll hear some helpful tips for preparing for Blue Books all semester long;  directors, Kelli gives some great practical ideas for making Blue Books fun!

Join host Lisa Bailey this week and discover how the seeds of classical Christian education are blooming all over the world!  Guests Koreen Mazurek and Dawna Ferguson share how families in Chile and Canada are “knowing God and making Him known” through their participation in CC programs in their homelands.  Their powerful testimonies will bless you; their prayer requests will inspire you.  We are drawn together by our mission and our method; just listen!

As we dive into the holiday season, we’re all looking for ways to simplify our routines, celebrate memorably, and welcome guests warmly.  Join Lisa and guest Amy Jones for some practical (and inspiring) ideas on how to draw everyone into your holiday rhythm.

Life is busy! Download audio versions of the articles from the Catalog and listen while you’re in the car, working out, or forward an episode to a friend. 
To listen to articles that will equip and encourage you no matter where you are in your homeschooling journey go to ClassicalConversations.com/Catalog-Articles

What comes to mind when you ponder “family learning?”  Most of us wonder what we should be learning and how to make learning all together doable.  Maybe the most important question, though, is why is learning together so pivotal?  On this episode of the Everyday Educator Podcast, Tim Knotts helps us answer all the questions, and it begins with ….conversations!  Listen in and find out how the 5 Canons of Rhetoric really do help you have the conversations that make learning family-style a joy and a blessing.

What can our family learn together?  How do we bring everyone into the conversation?  Can we stay connected as the children study different things?  Family learning sounds great…but sometimes feels hard!  On this episode of The Everyday Educator, Lisa talks with Andrew and Laura Brafford about how their family is using the 5 Common Topics as conversation guides for some deeply satisfying family learning experiences!

Building an atmosphere of learning sounds great, but how do you do it?  What makes it easier for a family to learn together, especially if the kids are different ages?  Everyday Educator has some answers for you!  Listen in as Olivia Walsh and Lisa Bailey offer some simple steps and easy ideas for learning all together, using the 5 Core Habits you’ve heard so much about!

Are you looking for ways to extend your family learning?  Want some practical ways to integrate what all your students are studying?  Listen in as Lisa talks this week to Angela Oxford (mom, Challenge director, Training and Support leader) ; you’ll hear simple yet effective ways to write your family’s learning story, making learning a team effort.  Find out how projects such as the Science Fair can bring your family together, keeping hearts and minds connected

Building a family learning culture is one of the most satisfying aspects of homeschooling.  When your family learns together, you are making memories, and binding your hearts together!  On this episode of the Everyday Educator, Lisa talks with Jennifer Courtney about habits we can cultivate early on that will help us build that family learning culture.  Listen as these homeschool veterans share specific ways everyone in your family can participate in conversations about what you’re all learning.   BONUS:  learn how to use the new Scribblers At Home material (now in Limited Digital Release on CC Connected) as a catalyst for learning as a family.

What do you love about your CC community?  What blessings have you discovered?  Join host Lisa Bailey and Foundations/Essentials director Kim Lawson as they share the impact that community makes on learning and on growing in Christ. Get some ideas for Open House season, and some reminders of why we share what we love with others.

At Classical Conversations we’re always looking for ways to know God; is your community looking for a way “to make Him known”?  Join Lisa Bailey and guest Julie Melendez as they share how Excellence in Education events provide just such an opportunity.  Julie offers great ideas you can replicate, as well as inspiration on how these events have already impacted local communities, and helped our students practice the skills we’re eager to pass on.

As the reality of a new homeschool year settles in, parents everywhere are thinking about how to get it all done with all the people they have to shepherd.  Looking for some words of wisdom here?  Listen as guest Kamilah Carter, veteran mom of 5 CCers from Foundations to Challenge III, shares practical suggestions and wise insights.  A delightfully real mom, Kamilah just might reframe your thinking about schedules!

Looking for ways to make getting out the door for community day less stressful?   Join host Lisa Bailey and guest Lia Gerkin for practical ideas for arriving at community with all your resources and brain cells intact.  Hear how one mom of 6 is training her kids to develop habits of responsibility and service. How will God equip you to have a great year this year?

As you begin the new academic year, do you feel like one smart mama?  Join Lisa Bailey this week as she picks the brains of two smart mamas:  Delise Germond and Ginny Tran.  Discover what smart mamas know, and where they look for support. 

Does the idea of pursuing Foundations Memory Master intrigue your family or intimidate your family? Whether you’re on the fence, or rarin’ to go, this episode of EE podcast will encourage you. Kelli Wilt joins Lisa to discuss how the Memory Master opportunity can be a stretch and grow opportunity for the whole family. 

Classical Learning Cohorts help CC Directors, Tutors, and Parent-Teachers grow in confidence and competence with the classical tools of learning and as classical educators.

Curious about our cohorts or ready to apply for a seat? Register at classicalconversations.com/cohort

Are you excited about reading?  About reading with your family?  About reading Challenge A literature?  Well, you will be after you listen to this episode of the Everyday Educator Podcast!  Find out what distinguishes a good book from the other kind, as well the reasons behind the Challenge A literature choices.

Why is Essentials so important?  Listen in as Lanelle Lowe and Lisa Bailey discuss how the program is both a foundation and a bridge.  Discover what you’ll study, what materials you need to get started, and how to make it enjoyable as you go.

Bonus:  These veterans will reveal how Essentials will become the gift that keeps on giving!

Are you ready for Foundations?  Join this week’s Everyday Educator and discover how a spirit of rest will make this fall a wonder-full new season with your children.  Tune in to discover the logistical details that will ensure a happy start to your community days; stay as Kelli Wilt helps us recognize the habits that will get us all off on the right foot.

Parents, are YOU ready for the Challenge program this fall?  Find out how to best prepare for a successful fall with your student in the Challenge years by listening in as Chelly Barnard shares with Lisa Bailey encouraging words and practical tips.  Your student will thank you, and you will find confidence and rest in a season of family learning.

Are your thoughts turning to the fall semester already?  Are you and your student getting ready for Challenge, and do you wonder how best to prepare?  Join veterans of the CC Challenge program Emma Oxford and Anthony Clendenin on this week’s Everyday Educator podcast.  Discover how students can prepare for Challenge success by hearing what students need to know, need to do, and need to gather for the coming year.

Does studying logic sound like fun?  It will after you listen to this episode of the Everyday Educator Podcast!  Guest Kathy Gibbens shows us why studying logic is so important today, and gives us great ideas for promoting clear thinking with our families.

In this last episode of our Summer Book Club on The Peacemaker, join Lisa Bailey, Leslie Hubbard, and Tim Knott as they ponder the ultimate goal of peacemaking:  demonstrating the forgiveness of God and encouraging a reasonable solution to conflict.  Discussion surrounds forgiveness, cooperative negotiation, and the divine weapons of peacemaking.

In this 4th installment of our Summer Book Club on The Peacemaker, join Lisa Bailey, Kelli Wilt, and Heatherly Sylvia as they discover practical ways to restore peace gently, using words wisely and well.  Bonus:  find some of our favorite tools of learning (spoiler alert:  The Five Core Habits of Grammar) used to speak the truth in love.

In this installment of our EE Summer Book Club on The Peacemaker, join Leslie Hubbard, Stephanie Meter and host Lisa Bailey as they ponder the roles of confession and restoration in peacemaking.  Listen for some common ways we are apt to sin when we’re in conflict with one another and receive practical suggestions for confessing.  You’ll also be encouraged and equipped to become an instrument of peace in your communities by pursuing restoration instead of just confrontation.

In this second episode of the Summer Book Club series on The Peacemaker, Lisa Bailey, Kristi Dye, and Kelli Wilt share some transparent testimony about their own parts in conflicts within families and communities.  Join these ladies as they discuss chapters 4 and 5, exploring how “getting the log out of our own eyes” first makes dealing with conflict a stewardship of God’s peace.

Is assessing ever a blessing??  According to guest Kelli Wilt, that depends on your perspective!  Join host Lisa Bailey as Kelli shares how Blue Book exams can be a celebration of what we know, and an opportunity to indulge in some deep conversations.  Parents, you’ll hear some helpful tips for preparing for Blue Books all semester long;  directors, Kelli gives some great practical ideas for making Blue Books fun!

Are you a peace faker?  Peace breaker? Peacemaker?  In a world full of turmoil and conflict on every hand, we are called by God to be peacemakers.  How can we become people who view conflicts as opportunities, not accidents?  The Peacemaker, by Ken Sande offers us some keen insights on these questions.  This summer, join the EE Book Club as we read and discuss this book, wrestling with the big ideas and discussing how we can be stewards of peace.  This week, Stephanie Meter and Heatherly Sylvia join Lisa as we kick off this new series.

What’s the big deal about Practicum?  Find out this week on the Everyday Educator Podcast as host Lisa Bailey and guest Jill Philbrick explore what Practicum is, who should come, what attendees should expect, and how to get the most out of Practicum.  You’ll be inspired, encouraged, and equipped—just by listening!

How can we celebrate fathers this season?  By recognizing that dads are Lead Learners, too!  If you are wondering how to make that true in your home, listen in as Tim Knotts gives some pointers and shares some wisdom from his own journey as a homeschool dad.  You’ll glean practical ideas on how to learn alongside your children at every age, and find encouragement for “team teaching” with your spouse!