Sending voice notes to all my homeschooling besties!
Listen in on my personal and guests' reflections, learnings, advice, stories of homeschooling, and more. We'll chat getting and staying organized, planning lessons, activities, playdates, prepping for the day and anything else homeschooling that comes up!
Season 2, Episode 6 - Know Your Capacity: Frances Bowen on Raising Four Boys Through the Teen Years
Season 2 · Episode 6
Thursday, July 30, 2026 • Duration 55:59
You’ve probably compared your homeschool to someone else’s highlight reel at some point. Frances Bowen finally learned to stop — and it changed how she measures a good day.
In this episode, I chat with Frances Bowen, a Christian mom of four boys — ages 25, 17, 16, and 13 — finishing her sixth year of homeschooling and settling into the more independent rhythms of the teen years. Frances gets honest about what’s actually working right now (and what isn’t): her ongoing battle with teen screen time, the tearful process of letting her older boys make their own mistakes, and the extra layer of pressure she carries as a Black mom raising Black sons. She also walks through her curriculum choices across every subject, her transcript and portfolio system for high school, and the advice that’s carried her furthest — that homeschool joy was never really about the curriculum at all.
You’ll hear:
* Frances’s honest, current struggle with teen screen addiction — and the small resets (prayer, renewed rules, more intentional together-time) that are helping her family through it.
* The added layer of pressure she carries as a Black homeschool mom raising Black sons, and how she talks herself back from the comparison spiral
* Why she believes homeschool joy was never about the curriculum — and the “know your capacity” mindset that’s kept her from burning out after six years
* The tearful transition of realizing her older teens don’t need her the way they used to, and how she’s learned to separate their choices from her own sense of failure
* Her real, unfiltered take on public-school vo-tech programs for homeschoolers — including the early mornings and lost momentum that came with her son’s culinary track
* Her system for keeping a separate home planner and homeschool planner, plus the one iPhone habit that catches everything in between
✨ Frances’s honesty about what’s hard right now — not just what worked years ago — makes this one worth your full attention.
About Frances Bowen:
A Christian woman who loves to share homeschooling and to encourage other moms through that journey. I am a mother of four sons and wife of 18 years. Soon to start my 7th year of homeschooling all my teens boys and gaining wonderful moments together.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction & meet Frances00:26 – Frances’s family, homeschool philosophy, and staying flexible with boys02:51 – Six years of homeschooling, why they started during COVID, and a typical day 07:18 – Curriculum walkthrough: science, history, geography, and fine arts10:27 – Curriculum walkthrough: math, language arts, and grammar16:03 – Planning and organization: paper planners, portfolios, and binders23:48 – Building high school transcripts step by step29:55 – The culinary vo-tech experience and stepping back to let her son learn35:51 – Socialization: 4-H, co-ops, homeschool prom, and high school sports40:32 – Content creation: YouTube, Instagram, and her three pillars45:16 – Her current struggle: screens, emotions, and the pressure of raising Black sons 49:12 – What brings her joy now, and her best advice for homeschool moms54:24 – Where to find Frances
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theorganizedhomeschool.substack.com
Season 2, Episode 5: Bringing the Classroom Home — Brittani Edwards on Homeschooling a Gifted Daughter and a Neurodivergent Son
Season 2 · Episode 5
Tuesday, July 28, 2026 • Duration 57:31
Textbooks sat untouched, and YouTube had quietly become the teacher — that’s when Brittani Edwards decided seventh grade was going to look different this year.In this episode, I chat with Brittani Edwards, a former elementary school teacher turned virtual tutor and homeschool mom of two, about to homeschool both of her children full-time for the first time this fall. Brittani shares why she pulled her gifted seventh-grader out of public school after watching group work, rushed pacing, and constant screen time crowd out real learning, and how homeschooling her son — diagnosed with autism at two and a half — shaped the classroom-management-inspired routines she’s building for both kids this year. We also get into how her virtual tutoring business, born out of the pandemic, shapes her approach to foundational literacy, and her honest advice for parents raising gifted or neurodivergent children.
You’ll hear:
● Why Brittani decided this was the year to homeschool her seventh-grade daughter, too — and the heavy tech reliance in middle school that pushed her to make the call● How “YouTube became the teacher” in her daughter’s classroom, and why that worried her as a former educator● What it’s really like to homeschool a gifted seventh-grader and a kindergartner with autism at the same time — including the surprising built-in one-on-one time their different sleep schedules create● How her virtual tutoring business (born out of offering free help during the pandemic) shaped what she believes about foundational literacy skills● The classroom management systems — visual routine charts, modeling, praise paired with correction — she’s brought home from her years as a teacher● Her honest advice for parents of gifted or neurodivergent kids: stop comparing your homeschool to what you see online
✨ Tune in for an honest look at what it takes to homeschool two very different kids at once — and why bringing your classroom expertise home doesn’t mean recreating the classroom.
About Brittani:
Hi, I’m Brittani, a wife, mom of two, former elementary school teacher turned virtual tutor and homeschool mom. This fall marks my very first school year homeschooling both of my children, and I couldn’t be more excited for this new chapter. After years in the classroom, I’ve taken everything I’ve learned as an educator and combined it with my experiences as a parent to create a mindful, child-centered approach to learning. I’m passionate about making education engaging, approachable, and supportive for both children and their families. Whether through virtual tutoring or our homeschool journey, my goal is to help kids build confidence, develop strong literacy skills, and discover a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
From Principal to Homeschooling for Freedom — My Story on The Torch Mom Podcast
Season 1 · Episode 33
Thursday, November 13, 2025 • Duration 01:21:15
In this episode of The Torch Mom Podcast with Tia Lilley, I share my story of walking away from a career in education to build a life of freedom through homeschooling.
I open up about my journey from being a 26-year-old principal and workaholic to becoming a homeschool mom who finally found peace, purpose, and joy at home. We talk about the fears I faced leaving the system, how motherhood completely changed my definition of success, and what freedom truly looks like for our family today.
Tia and I also dive into how I’m helping other moms simplify homeschooling, find calm in their days, and build homes that feel good to live and learn in.
If you’ve ever wondered what it might look like to trade the chaos for calm and create a life you actually love waking up to — this one’s for you.
🔖 Chapters
00:00 — Childhood lessons from strong women
04:30 — From dolls to principal: how teaching found me
07:30 — Pregnancy, power, and learning to slow down
12:00 — An unexpected labor story (and a 9½ cm surprise)
19:00 — What kids really crave in education
22:00 — Safety scares and the moment I knew I couldn’t go back
27:00 — The sculptor’s journey: chipping away toward freedom
36:00 — The tears, fear, and faith of leaving the system
37:30 — What “freedom” looks like for our homeschool
39:00 — Protecting the fun — and why play matters
45:00 — Balancing motherhood, business, and self-care
49:00 — Dreaming of location freedom and travel learning
52:00 — Helping other moms simplify homeschool planning
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Voice Note 32: Dream Big, Start Small: Casondra Radford on Building a Creative, Organized Homeschool Co-op
Season 1 · Episode 32
Thursday, October 30, 2025 • Duration 54:05
What happens when a teacher-turned-homeschool-mom decides to create the kind of learning environment her kids actually need?
In this episode, I chat with Casondra Radford, a mom of four, lifelong educator, and founder of Rad Arts Academy—a creative, culturally-rooted homeschool co-op that began with just four kids and has grown to serve more than 30 families in one year.
Casondra shares her journey from teaching across five continents to homeschooling her daughters, unlearning traditional structures, and building a space where neurodivergent, adopted, and creative learners can thrive.
You’ll hear:
* How Casondra went from overseas teaching to homeschooling in Kentucky
* What it was like adopting three children and creating a new family rhythm
* Her process of unlearning as a former classroom teacher
* The story behind founding Rad Arts Academy (and how it grew so fast!)
* Her personal organization systems that keep everything running smoothly
* Why she believes authenticity, community, and faith are key to sustainable success
✨ This episode is a must-listen for any mom dreaming of starting something meaningful—from a simple co-op to a movement.
About Casondra:
Casondra Radford is a devoted mother of four, passionate educator, and the Founder of RadArtz Academy—a faith-based learning community that nurtures children holistically through creativity, hands-on education, and spiritual growth. Her career spans roles as a teacher, ESL instructor, tutor, and mentor, with a consistent focus on empowering others through service and education. She has also supported individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and worked with teen moms as a youth mentor. From local classrooms to global mission fields, Casondra lives out her calling to uplift others and reflect God’s love in action.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Voice Note 31: Homeschooling with Confidence: Yarelly Briceno on Building a Heart-Centered, Flexible Homeschool
Season 1 · Episode 31
Monday, October 27, 2025 • Duration 32:34
What happens when you follow your intuition and build a homeschool that truly fits your family?
In this episode, I chat with Yarelly Briceno, a homeschooling mom of two and psychology student who’s passionate about helping families create peaceful, individualized learning at home. She shares how she started homeschooling in 2019, what it’s like raising a neurodivergent child, and how she balances motherhood, study, and self-care with grace and intention.
You’ll hear:
* Why Yarelly decided to homeschool (and how her “why” evolved after her son’s autism diagnosis)
* How she overcame family criticism and found confidence in her decision
* Practical planning tips: yearly unit studies, monthly prep, and flexible scheduling
* How she integrates self-care and home management into her homeschool rhythm
* Her honest take on sacrifice, privilege, and what homeschooling really looks like behind the scenes
* The online resources and classes her kids love most (and how she uses them to support socialization)
✨ A reminder that homeschooling doesn’t have to look perfect—it just needs to fit your family.
About Yarelly:
I’m a homeschooling mom of two (one of whom is autistic) and I’ve been teaching my kids since they were toddlers, but I started my official homeschool journey in 2019. I’m also a wife and a psychology student.
I will be sharing about motherhood, homeschooling, self care, and my hobbies. I love cozy things like books, crafting, cooking, and slow mornings. I hope to encourage other women to feel seen, supported, and capable.
In this solo episode, I share the vision behind one of the biggest projects I’ve ever taken on: organizing and hosting a brand-new homeschool expo for families in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area in summer 2026.
If you’ve ever wished for an event that celebrates all homeschoolers—secular and religious, new and experienced, eclectic and traditional—this is for you.
You’ll hear:
* Why I decided to create the Homeschool for Freedom Expo
* How my own search for an inclusive, diverse homeschool event led to this idea
* The goals and heart behind the expo: community, resources, and inspiration
* What makes this expo different from other homeschool events
* How you can join the waitlist and get involved now (as an attendee, sponsor, or supporter)
Erica also shares what’s next for planning, sponsorship goals, and how you can help make this event a reality.
✨ If you believe homeschooling should be about freedom, inclusivity, and community—this episode is for you.
⏱ Chapters
00:00 – Why it’s been a minute since the last solo episode01:00 – The big news: launching a brand-new homeschool expo in the DMV02:30 – How Erica’s search for a secular, inclusive event inspired the idea03:30 – From teacher to principal to project manager—why she’s ready to build this04:30 – The vision: a thousand families, one space for freedom and community05:30 – Why inclusivity is at the heart of the Homeschool for Freedom Expo07:00 – What attendees can expect: diversity, resources, inspiration08:00 – How to join the waitlist and confirm your spot08:30 – The next big push: sponsorships and funding goals09:30 – How to support, spread the word, and stay connected
🔗 Resources & Links
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Voice Note 30: Just Start: Melissa Garcia on Finding Confidence and Joy in Simple Homeschool Days
Season -1 · Episode 30
Thursday, October 23, 2025 • Duration 01:06:58
Can you really homeschool with four little ones—and no support system?
In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Garcia, a mom of four who started homeschooling her oldest at four years old after feeling called to keep her kids home. Melissa shares her honest, faith-filled journey of overcoming fear, finding confidence, and creating peace in the middle of motherhood chaos.
You’ll hear:
* Why a long commute and a tragic school shooting confirmed her decision to homeschool
* How she built confidence through community, books, and just doing it
* Her practical approach to “learning through life” using cooking, cleaning, and play
* What support looks like when your spouse works long hours and family disagrees
* How she stays organized teaching multiple little ones with flexibility and grace
✨ A reminder that homeschooling doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be purposeful.
About Melissa:
I’m a Christian wife and stay at home mom of 4 (ages 6, 2, 1, and 3 months). I’ve been homeschooling my oldest for 2 years and plan to homeschool all of my children through high school.
⏱ Chapters
00:00 – Meet Melissa: wife, mom of 4, and new homeschooler
03:00 – Why she left preschool behind (chaotic mornings + school safety fears)
06:00 – Building confidence through “just doing it” + finding online community
11:00 – Making learning happen in everyday life – cooking, cleaning, play, errands
20:00 – Support from her husband vs. family pushback + socialization myths
34:00 – Finding co-ops + mom community through Facebook + library events
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Voice Note 29: From Classroom to Kitchen Table: Kelsey Schaffer on Finding Joy in Imperfect Homeschool Days
Season 1 · Episode 29
Monday, October 20, 2025 • Duration 01:02:02
In this episode, I chat with Kelsey Schaffer, a former preschool and elementary school teacher turned homeschooling mom of two. From lesson planning with a baby on her hip to unlearning the need for perfection, Kelsey shares her honest journey of building a homeschool that’s rooted in faith, play, and flexibility.
You’ll hear:
* Why she left the traditional classroom and chose homeschooling for her kids
* How she plans preschool lessons that are simple, fun, and flexible
* What “unlearning” looks like for a teacher-turned-homeschool-mom
* How she organizes her homeschool in a small space using baskets and systems
* Her advice for balancing homeschool and motherhood during the baby years
✨ Listen in and be encouraged that real learning—and real joy—happen in the messy middle.
About Kelsey:
Hi, I’m Kelsey! I’m a former early childhood teacher turned homeschool mom, currently living in Florida with my husband and two young boys (3 years and 5 months). As a military spouse, home can change — but homeschooling gives us the freedom and consistency I always wanted for my family. After teaching preschool through 3rd grade, I saw both the joys and the struggles within the public school system. Now, I’m passionate about creating playful, meaningful learning experiences at home during these early years.
⏱ Chapters
00:00 – Meet Kelsey: teacher turned homeschool mom of two
02:00 – Why she left the school system and chose homeschooling
06:00 – What a typical homeschool day looks like with a 3-year-old
09:00 – The “moon lesson” and how she builds themed activities
12:00 – How she plans her week and uses Pinterest + TPT for inspiration
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Voice Note 28: From Classroom to Consulting: JeTua Amos on Homeschooling Four Boys with Confidence
Season 1 · Episode 28
Friday, October 3, 2025 • Duration 01:34:16
What happens when a passionate teacher leaves the classroom to homeschool her own children?
In this episode, I sit down with JeTua Amos, a former middle school science teacher and now homeschool mom of four boys, ages 12–19. Since 2013, she’s been creating an eclectic but intentional homeschool rooted in planning, flexibility, and community. Along the way, she founded Amos Homeschool Consulting, where she helps families with planning, documentation, and transcripts.
You’ll hear:
* Why JeTua left teaching to homeschool her boys
* How she made the transition from traditional to eclectic homeschooling
* The role of planning, binders, and record-keeping in her success
* How she built community through co-ops, sports, and local groups
* Practical advice for high school transcripts, portfolios, and college prep
* Her journey starting Amos Homeschool Consulting and balancing it with family life
About JeTua:
JeTua Amos is a Mississippi native, devoted wife, and proud mother of four boys. A former middle school science educator, she made the bold decision to leave the classroom and homeschool her children. Today, she shares her inspiring journey—one filled with faith, family, and a passion for empowering other homeschool families to thrive.
Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome & JeTua’s introduction
02:00 – From middle school science teacher to homeschool mom
06:00 – Why she left the classroom for homeschooling
10:00 – Transitioning her kids out of public school
15:00 – Building community and finding activities in Mississippi
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Voice Note 27: Breaking Cycles & Building Freedom: Angela McDonald on Faith-Filled Homeschooling
Season 1 · Episode 27
Monday, September 29, 2025 • Duration 01:04:12
What happens when a seasoned educator decides the school system no longer aligns with her values—and chooses to homeschool instead?
In this episode, I talk with Angela McDonald, a former teacher and consultant turned homeschool mom, about her decision to homeschool her 9-year-old daughter Hazel. Angela shares how she shifted from a boxed curriculum to teaching through life experiences, how she organizes lessons with skill-based planning, and the role of faith and obedience in her journey.
You’ll hear:
* Why Angela chose to leave the traditional school system behind
* How she balances structure with freedom in her homeschool days
* Practical ways she organizes lessons around everyday life (from baking to gardening to Hallmark movies!)
* What deschooling has looked like for her as both a teacher and a mom
* How faith and God’s timing guide her family and her business, Growing Greatness Homeschool
✨ Listen in and be encouraged that homeschooling doesn’t have to fit in a box—it can be full of freedom, faith, and real life.
About Angela:
School leader turned homeschool mom. We use real life as the curriculum. No busywork, just skills that matter. Helping families make learning simple, joyful, and real.
⏱ Chapters
00:00 – Introduction & Angela’s background in education
04:00 – Why she chose to homeschool Hazel after 15 years in schools
06:00 – Breaking cycles & seeing school for what it was designed to do
10:00 – How her daughter adjusted & found her voice again
14:00 – A peek into their daily rhythm (Bible, workouts, gardening, baking, lessons)
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction & meet Brittani01:00 – Homeschooling her son since age three after his autism diagnosis03:00 – Deciding it was time to homeschool her gifted daughter, too05:00 – When YouTube becomes the teacher: tech overload in middle school07:00 – Preparing together: building routines as a summer “boot camp”13:00 – Monthly planning and prepping two very different curriculums15:00 – A typical day: an early-riser son and a later-rising daughter19:00 – Her virtual tutoring business, born out of the pandemic22:00 – Time-blocking Fridays for tutoring and homeschool prep24:00 – Foundational literacy skills and closing learning gaps28:00 – Emotional regulation over “pushing through”32:00 – Bringing classroom management systems home38:00 – Advice for parents of gifted or neurodivergent kids46:00 – Building community online and in person50:00 – What’s bringing her joy this year: flexibility and freedom54:00 – Final thoughts & where to find Brittani
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