The California Homeschool Podcast
cheapodcast
5.0from 7 ratings
- 19
- Episodes
- 7
- Ratings
- Monthly
- Cadence
- 2025
- First episode
About The California Homeschool Podcast
The California Homeschool Podcast, produced by the Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA), is your companion for navigating private homeschooling in the Golden State. We offer encouragement, practical tips, and insightful interviews to support families choosing private home education in California. Discover community and gain valuable knowledge on everything from legal requirements to flourishing in your private homeschool journey. Learn more at: www.cheaofca.org
- Publisher
- cheapodcast
- Category
- education
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 5 May 2025
- Latest episode
- 6 Oct 2026
Latest episodes
19 episodes in the feed.
6 Oct 2026
The Bold Case for Private Homeschooling
Homeschooling looks a lot different today than it did 25 or 30 years ago. Back then, families were running toward something: more time together, more freedom, an education they got to design themselves. Today, many families are running from something: a public school system they no longer trust. In this episode, Angela Lasch welcomes veteran homeschool mom, author, and speaker Heidi St. John to talk honestly about the cost of letting the government fund a homeschool education, and the freedom that comes from choosing to homeschool privately instead. Heidi and Angela discuss: Heidi's homeschool journey, starting with her daughter's second-grade year and continuing through seven children and now eight grandchildren Why this generation of homeschool families faces a completely different landscape than 25 years ago What “with shekels comes shackles” means, and why taking government funding always comes with government oversight What California families give up when they choose a charter over private homeschooling Why Heidi has grace for parents who choose charter, but urges them to look at the bigger picture How the Firmly Planted Homeschool Resource Center serves over a thousand students without ever taking government money Practical starting points for new homeschoolers: focus on math and reading first, and let the rest follow Heidi's encouragement for moms who are afraid of the freedom homeschooling offers About Heidi St. John Heidi St. John homeschooled all seven of her children over more than 25 years and now has eight grandchildren being homeschooled. She and her husband co-founded the Firmly Planted Homeschool Resource Center in Vancouver, Washington. She is the author of 13 books and hosts The Heidi St. John Podcast, airing five days a week. Connect with Heidi: Website: www.heidistjohn.net YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realheidistjohn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-heidi-st-john-podcast/id797248294 If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a homeschool mom who needs to hear it today. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call #CHEAofCA #CaliforniaHomeschool #ChristianHomeschool
1 Sept 2026
You Can Homeschool High School, Start Here
Can you really homeschool high school? Absolutely, and this episode is here to prove it. Host Angela Lasch sits down with returning guests Dena Bless and Penny Ross, two homeschool moms who took their own kids all the way through graduation, for an honest, encouraging conversation about what it actually takes to get started. Dena and Penny share: Why you should start planning high school with the end in mind, not the curriculum How to ease your teen into homeschooling without just recreating school at home How to set four-year goals without overplanning The fears every homeschool parent faces, and where to find real support How to build a weekly rhythm that works with real life, not against it How to get a hesitant teen invested in their own education What they would tell themselves if they were starting over Mark your calendar for two upcoming CHEA events: Online College & Career Fair, October 6 Online Financial Aid Webinar, October 8 Visit https://cheaofca.org/college-career-financial-aid-webinar for the full schedule and registration. CHEA members can catch the replays after the live events in the Digital Library. For 44 years, CHEA has been California’s trusted resource for homeschool families, offering information, training, and support so parents can homeschool with confidence, from preschool through graduation.
4 Aug 2026
Preserving Liberty: A Mid-Year Homeschool Freedom Briefing
Angela Lasch sits down with Nathan Pierce of Family Protection Ministries (FPM) for a six-month check-in on homeschool freedom, what's happening in Sacramento, why laws passed in Nebraska and Connecticut matter for California families, and what to expect at Homeschool Freedom Day on September 12 at the Ronald Reagan Library. About Nathan Pierce and Family Protection Ministries Nathan was homeschooled K–12 in California and now homeschools his own eight children with his wife, Betsy (also homeschooled). He works full-time at FPM, which is celebrating its 40th year monitoring the California legislature and advocating for homeschool freedom. California Legislative Update The legislature is currently in recess and returns in early August. No major anti-homeschool bills are active right now, but FPM secured an amendment exempting private homeschool families from a bill mandating kindergarten–a proposal from the California Teachers Association that FPM has fought over 30 times. FPM is bracing for a wave of amendments once the legislature reconvenes. National Threats: Nebraska and Connecticut Two new state laws this year raised concern nationally: Nebraska: A new law blocks a family from withdrawing a child from public school to homeschool if a social services investigation has been opened based on an allegation, even an unsubstantiated one. Investigations can drag on for a year or more with no resolution. Connecticut: A new law requires background checks for all parents before they can begin homeschooling, regardless of whether the child was previously in public school. Homeschool Freedom Day, September 12 Where: Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley When: September 12, 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., with museum access (including a 250th-anniversary exhibit, in its final week) for the rest of the day Theme: Connecting America's 250th anniversary with the history and future of homeschool freedom Speakers: Zan Tyler (longtime homeschool freedom advocate), Will Estrada (HSLDA attorney), Robert Bortins (Classical Conversations), and Jennifer Avila (Director of District Outreach) Registration and details at https://fpmca.org/event/hfd2026-reagan-library/ Prayer Requests Wisdom and stamina as the legislature returns from recess and amendment activity picks up Nathan's family: a daughter marrying and a daughter starting college–both in August That no new homeschool-related legislation is introduced in August About CHEA The Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA) exists to advance the Kingdom of Jesus Christ by promoting private Christian home education as an outstanding educational opportunity, providing information, training, and support to the homeschool community, and protecting the God-given right of parents to direct the education and training of their children to the glory of God. Whether you're just starting to homeschool or have been at it for years, visit https://cheaofca.org/ for information on California homeschool law, resources, and encouragement for your homeschool journey. You'll also find details on CHEA membership and how to connect with the wider California homeschool community. Thanks for Listening Thank you for listening to the CHEA California Homeschool Podcast. If today's episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who's homeschooling or considering it. We'll see you next time. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call at thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call.
7 Jul 2026
AI and Your Homeschool: Wisdom for a New Era
Episode Description: Artificial intelligence is everywhere, in our phones, in our search engines, and increasingly in the tools our children will use for school, work, and life. For homeschool parents, that raises real questions. Is it safe? Will it shortcut my child's thinking? Could it actually help me? And how do we approach all of this with biblical wisdom? In this episode, Angela Lasch sits down with Nancy Manos, a longtime homeschool leader with more than twenty years of experience encouraging and equipping homeschool families. Nancy currently serves as the National Alliance Leaders Conference Director and has become a thoughtful voice on how Christian families can navigate technology with discernment. Together, Angela and Nancy explore the real pros and cons of AI for homeschool families, the wisdom and discernment our children need now more than ever, safe and practical first steps for introducing AI in your home, and the ways AI can actually lighten the load for busy homeschool parents. Whether you're cautious, curious, or already exploring these tools with your family, this conversation will leave you encouraged and equipped to lead your home with confidence in this new era. In This Episode: Nancy's heart for home education after more than two decades in homeschool leadership A simple explanation of what AI is and why it matters for the next generation The genuine benefits and the real concerns parents should weigh How to use AI as an opportunity to build discernment and critical thinking Safe, age-appropriate first steps for introducing AI to your children Practical ways AI can help homeschool parents with lesson planning, organization, and household management A word of encouragement for parents navigating this new era Connect with Nancy Manos: WEBSITE: https://nancymanos.com PODCAST: https://nancymanos.com/podcast YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@nancymanos FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/mrsnancymanos INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/mrsnancymanos LINKEDIN: https://linkedin.com/in/nancy-manos-az FREE RESOURCE: A Family Discussion Guide for Navigating AI with Wisdom and Discernment https://nancymanos.com/podcast Connect with CHEA of California: WEBSITE: https://cheaofca.orgPODCAST: https://cheapodcast.podbean.comYOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@cheaofca7027 FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/CHEAofCAINSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/cheaofca If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a homeschool parent who needs encouragement today. Every share helps more California families homeschool with confidence. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call at thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call.
2 Jun 2026
Brain Breaks Are Not Wasted Time: How Movement Helps Your Homeschooler Focus and Thrive
You finally sit down to start school. Your lesson is planned, your coffee is hot, and your child cannot sit still. If that scene feels familiar, this episode is for you. Host Angela Lasch sits down with Heather Haupt, author of The Ultimate Guide to Brain Breaks and founder of Cultivated Learning, to explore a question every homeschool parent has wrestled with: Is all that wiggling really a problem? Heather brings a background in neuroscience to the conversation, and her answer may change the way you see your school day. Movement is not a distraction from learning. It is how God designed the brain to learn best. Heather was homeschooled herself and is now homeschooling her own five children, so she is not speaking from the outside looking in. She has lived this, and she gets it. In this episode: How being homeschooled and now homeschooling her children shapes the way Heather understands learning What a brain break actually is, and how it differs from simply letting kids run around What is happening inside the brain when a child gets up and moves during a lesson Encouragement for the mom who feels movement time is wasted academic time How to build brain breaks into your daily rhythm without losing control of your day The connection between movement and your child's emotional regulation Simple, practical brain breaks you can use today, even in a small space A preview of Heather's sessions at CHEA's Parenting & Homeschool Convention this July Closing encouragement: This podcast is a word of hope for the homeschool mom who is second-guessing herself today. Connect with Heather Haupt at Cultivated Learning: https://cultivatedlearning.org Meet Heather in person this summer. Heather will be speaking at CHEA's 41st Annual Parenting & Homeschool Convention, "Preserving Liberty," July 10 and 11, 2026, at Calvary Chapel Downey. This is where vision gets restored, friendships are deepened, and hearts are renewed. Register and find all the details here: https://cheaofca.org/annual-parenting-homeschool-convention Connect with CHEA of California. CHEA is California's go-to organization for homeschool families. From your very first questions about getting started to years into your homeschool journey, we exist to inform, equip, support, and protect your God-given right to direct your children's education. Website: https://cheaofca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CHEAofCA Instagram: @cheaofca Subscribe and stay connected. The California Homeschool Podcast publishes once a month to encourage and equip you on your homeschool journey. If this episode encouraged you, the best thing you can do is subscribe right here on YouTube and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. It truly helps more California families find us. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Podbean: https://cheapodcast.podbean.com This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call #CHEAofCA #CaliforniaHomeschool #ChristianHomeschool #BrainBreaks #HomeschoolMom #HomeschoolTips #PreservingLiberty #HomeschoolConvention
5 May 2026
The Homeschool Awakening. One Filmmaker's Journey into Home Education
Celebrating one year of CHEA's California Homeschool Podcast! Caleb Price's path into homeschooling is anything but ordinary. Rock band, film school, a documentary with Kirk Cameron, and somewhere along the way, a family transformed. In this episode, Angela sits down with Caleb, homeschool dad of five, filmmaker, and founder of The Podcast Upload, to talk about The Homeschool Awakening, what homeschooling actually looks like in California, and why homeschool state organizations matter for families here. Caleb shares practical rhythms from his own home with five kids, what he thinks most people get wrong about California homeschoolers, and offers real encouragement for dads who feel like they are on the sidelines. He closes with a heartfelt word to any California parent who is curious about homeschooling but has not yet taken the leap. Connect with Caleb Price calebpriceproductions.com ThePodcastUpload.com Connect with CHEA of California Website: cheaofca.org CHEA's 41st Annual Parenting & Homeschool Convention, July 10 and 11, 2026, Downey, CA. Register at https://cheaofca.org/annual-parenting-homeschool-convention If you have been blessed by a year of the podcast, the best way to say thank you is to subscribe, share an episode with a friend, and leave us a review. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
2 Apr 2026
California Hispanic Families, You Are Not Alone: A Conversation with Ana Maria Bagnuoli
If you are a Hispanic family in California wondering whether homeschooling is truly possible for you and whether it fits your culture, language, and faith, this episode was made with you in mind. Angela Lasch sits down with Ana Maria Bagnuoli, co-founder of Education by Design, a ministry dedicated to equipping Hispanic families to homeschool with biblical purpose and vision. Ana Maria's passion for this work is contagious, and her message is clear: you are not alone in this calling. In this episode: Who Education by Design is and why they exist to serve Hispanic homeschool families How homeschooling aligns with Hispanic culture, faith, and family values Encouragement for families who feel uncertain about whether they can do this The vision behind equipping parents to lead their children's education with a biblical purpose Resources mentioned: Education by Design: https://transitioneducation.net Education by Design Online Conference, April 10-11 — use code EDUCACA10 for 10% off: https://transitioneducation.net/conferencia2026 CHEA Annual Parenting & Homeschool Convention, July 10-11, Calvary Chapel Downey: https://cheaofca.org/annual-parenting-homeschool-convention CHEA Leadership Conference, July 9: https://cheaofca.org/annual-parenting-homeschool-convention/summer-leadership-conference CHEA is California's go-to organization for homeschool families. From your very first questions about getting started to years into your homeschool journey, we exist to inform, equip, and support you. If this episode blessed you, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a Spanish-speaking family in your community or church. Every share helps more California families homeschool with confidence and conviction. Until next time, keep pressing forward. The God who called you is faithful to equip you. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call at thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
3 Mar 2026
When Every Child is Different: Embracing Special Needs in Your Homeschool
Have you ever wondered if you can really homeschool a child with special needs? Today's guest, Staci Morgan, is living proof that you can, and she's here to show you how. Staci is a homeschool mom of four with a master's degree in pediatric nursing, but she'll tell you her real education has come from homeschooling her children through a range of special needs. In this conversation with Angela Lasch, Staci shares the practical strategies, mindset shifts, and biblical truths that have carried her family through the unique joys and challenges of special needs homeschooling. This episode covers balancing academic and medical needs, navigating the hard days, avoiding comparison, finding community, and trusting God's design for your family. If you've ever felt overwhelmed or wondered if you're enough for this calling, this episode is for you. Resources: CHEA’s Special Needs Resources: https://cheaofca.org/special-needs-resources CHEA Defender and Warrior Memberships include two free special needs consultations: https://cheaofca.org/join-chea-membership CHEA’s Free Homeschool Essential Series events in Yucca Valley, Carlsbad, Sacramento, and San Jose: https://cheaofca.org/homeschool-essentials-series Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a homeschool family who needs encouragement today. #CHEAofCA #CaliforniaHomeschool #SpecialNeedsHomeschool #ChristianHomeschool #SpecialNeedsParenting #HomeschoolFamily #LearningDifferences #NeurodiverseHomeschool
3 Feb 2026
Hearts Before Schedules: Creating a Love-Centered Homeschool
Hearts Before Schedules: Creating a Love-Centered Homeschool About This Episode In this episode, host Angela Lasch speaks with Rachel Zwayne about one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of homeschooling: keeping your family's heart at the center of your educational journey. Rachel shares insights from her experience homeschooling five children while navigating the unique challenges of having a family engaged in full-time ministry. If you've ever felt torn between creating the "perfect" homeschool on paper and simply knowing and discipling your children, this conversation is for you. Guest: Rachel Zwayne Rachel Zwayne was born and raised in New Zealand. At age 14, her father's ministry (Ray Comfort / Living Waters) relocated to Southern California, where she eventually met her husband and became the mother of five children. Rachel has spent years encouraging other women in their roles as mothers, wives, and homeschoolers through her work as a leader and teacher of women's groups, and as a conference and retreat speaker. She has been married to Emeal ("E.Z.") for 29 years. They live in Southern California and are now enjoying being grandparents. Rachel's passion for supporting mothers continues through her online ministry, Joyful Mothers, where she encourages mothers and wives to love and serve their families. Connect with Rachel Instagram: @joyful_mothers Facebook: Joyful Mothers Website: www.joyfulmothers.net Why This Matters Homeschooling is more than academics; it's an opportunity to disciple your children and build a family culture centered on Christ. Rachel's message reminds us that the most essential "curriculum" is the one written on your children's hearts through your consistent, loving presence and leadership. Whether you're just starting your homeschool journey or you're years into it, this conversation offers perspective on what truly matters and how to keep that priority front and center even when life gets messy and complicated. CHEA Resources & Events Homeschool Essential Series – In March & April, join us in person in Southern and Central California to learn how to get started with homeschooling. Designed to equip and encourage homeschool parents just starting. Details will be published in our weekly newsletter soon. Not receiving the CHEA newsletter? Sign up on our website here. You CAN Homeschool – New YouTube Series launching in January, running through June. Packed with encouragement and practical tips for families beginning their homeschool journey. Subscribe: CHEA's YouTube channel 2026 Annual Parenting and Homeschool Convention Theme: "Preserving Liberty" Location: Calvary Chapel Downey Dates: July 10 and 11, 2026 This is where vision gets restored, friendships are deepened, and hearts are renewed. Early Registration Dates: CHEA Members: February 9, 2026 (discounted rate) General Public: February 18, 2026 Learn more and become a CHEA member: www.cheaofca.org Share Your Thoughts Has this episode blessed your heart? We'd love to hear how you're implementing a hearts-first approach in your homeschool. Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with us on social media. Don't forget to subscribe to CHEA's California Homeschool Podcast and share this episode with a friend who needs this encouragement! Subscribe & Stay Connected Podcast: The CHEA California Homeschool Podcast is available on YouTube and on all major podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify. Website: www.cheaofca.org Social Media: Facebook and Instagram. Until next time, keep leading your family with vision, faith, and love. God bless you. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
6 Jan 2026
Defending Liberty: Nathan Pierce on Homeschool Freedom in California
Episode Summary In this episode, Angela Lasch, Executive Director of CHEA, sits down with Nathan Pierce, Executive Director of Family Protection Ministries, to discuss the critical importance of homeschool advocacy in California. Nathan shares his 20-year journey monitoring state legislation, the 39-year history of Family Protection Ministries' work protecting parental rights, and how FPM partners with CHEA to defend homeschool freedom. With California's legislative session beginning in January, this conversation is essential listening for every homeschooling family who wants to understand the landscape affecting their right to educate their children according to their Christian values. Key Topics Covered Nathan Pierce's background and journey into advocacy work The detect, analyze, monitor, and intervene approach at Family Protection Ministries 39 years of legislative victories protecting homeschool freedom in California The evolving homeschool community and how challenges have changed over decades How FPM and CHEA partner to protect California's homeschooling families Predictable patterns and recurring threats to homeschooling What to expect as the California legislative session begins in January The strategic importance of Capitol Day and grassroots advocacy Nathan's concerns and hopes for the future of homeschool freedom in California Important Dates & Action Items Capitol Day 2025 Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025 Last Day to Apply: January 7, 2025 Visit https://fpmca.org/ for more information and registration This is your opportunity to make your voice heard at the State Capitol and stand alongside other homeschooling families advocating for parental rights and educational freedom. Resources Mentioned Family Protection Ministries Website: fpmca.org Connect with Nathan for the latest legislative updates, blog posts, and speaker requests CHEA Resources Website: https://cheaofca.org/ Blog Article: 'The History of Homeschooling in California' - Read our comprehensive overview of how homeschooling has evolved in California and the legal battles that have shaped our freedoms today Book Recommendation Title: The Battle for Homeschool Freedom in California Author: J. Michael Smith Available in the CHEA Store This book provides essential background on the legislative fights that have protected our right to homeschool and why vigilance remains critical. Why This Conversation Matters Our freedoms as homeschooling families are not guaranteed—they require constant vigilance, informed engagement, and action. As we enter 2026, it's crucial to understand the history of homeschool advocacy in California, recognize the threats we face, and commit to being active defenders of parental rights. This podcast is part of CHEA's January emphasis on advocacy, reminding us not to take our freedoms for granted and to stay diligent in protecting the right to educate our children according to our Christian convictions. Get Involved Register for Capitol Day (Deadline: January 8) - Be the face of homeschooling in your district Subscribe to FPM Updates - Stay informed about bills affecting homeschooling at fpmca.org Read and Share - Explore the history of homeschooling in California on our blog and share with other homeschooling families Get the Book - Purchase The Battle for Homeschool Freedom in California from the CHEA Store to deepen your understanding of the fight for our freedoms Subscribe to the CHEA Podcast for more conversations equipping and encouraging California's homeschooling families. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
2 Dec 2025
Winter is Calling: Your Family's Homeschooling Journey Starts Now
Guest: Penny Ross Winter is a season of transition and new beginnings. For many homeschooling families, it's a time when important questions arise about education, calling, and the right path forward. In this episode, we talk with homeschool coach and consultant Penny Ross about helping families discern whether homeschooling is right for them, navigating transitions, and moving forward with confidence during seasons of uncertainty. TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE The Calling & The Moment: Understanding winter as a pivotal season for educational decisions Validation & Permission: Addressing parental concerns and fears about homeschooling ("Will my kids fall behind?") Moving Forward with Confidence: Taking action on your family's educational journey KEY TAKEAWAYS Winter is more than a season. It can be a moment of clarity when families recognize their true calling regarding homeschooling. Your concerns about homeschooling are valid. Permission to address them and move forward comes from understanding your specific family situation, not from comparing yourself to others. Your family's homeschooling journey is uniquely yours. What works for another family may not work for you, and that is okay. Winter break is an opportunity to take action. Many families withdraw their children during this time and begin homeschooling in January, allowing for a fresh start aligned with the calendar year. Support and personalized guidance are available when you need them. You do not have to figure this out alone. CONNECT WITH PENNY ROSS Website: https://www.toolsforthehomeeducator.com CONNECT WITH CHEA Website: CHEAofCA.org CHEA’s Facebook Groups Homeschool California Working Homeschool Moms This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
4 Nov 2025
How to Enjoy the Holidays WITHOUT Homeschool Guilt
Episode Description The holidays are approaching, and many homeschool parents are already feeling the tension between keeping up with academics and embracing this special season with their families. In this episode, we're tackling the guilt head-on and giving you practical strategies to plan your homeschool holidays with intention and peace. Join us as we sit down with Danielle Huerta, veteran homeschool mom of four (with two already graduated!), co-op administrator, and host of The Peaceful Word podcast. Danielle shares wisdom from over a decade of homeschooling through the holidays, offering four different approaches families can take, practical planning steps you can implement right now, and biblical perspective on rest and rhythms. Whether you're wondering if it's okay to take a break, struggling to balance church events and academics, or just feeling overwhelmed by all the demands of the season - this conversation will help you create a holiday plan that works for YOUR family. Key Takeaways: The holidays ARE educational - hospitality, service, reading, cooking, and family discipleship all count Different families need different approaches, and your approach may change from year to year Planning ahead NOW reduces stress later - calendar audit, academic checkpoint, tradition inventory The memories and family culture you're building during holidays have eternal value You're not falling behind - you're building a Kingdom-focused home Connect With Our Guest: Danielle Huerta Podcast: The Peaceful Word on Spotify Connect With CHEA: Website: https://cheaofca.org/ Subscribe & Share: If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe and share it with another homeschool parent who needs to hear this message! Your support helps us continue creating content to encourage and equip the homeschool community. Reminder: God doesn't call the equipped—He equips the called. You're not walking this journey alone. CHEA is here to guide you. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
7 Oct 2025
When Doubt Creeps In: Staying Confident in Your Calling
Guest: Zan Tyler - Homeschool advocate, speaker, author, and podcast host with 30+ years of experience encouraging families Episode Description: Feeling like your homeschool year isn't going as planned? You're not alone. Join Angela Lasch as she talks with Zan Tyler about navigating the doubt and discouragement that often hits in October and November. Learn how to distinguish between normal growing pains and needed changes, escape the comparison trap, and stand firm in your calling even when the path gets rocky. Topics Covered: Common mid-year struggles homeschool families face How to handle the "Am I cut out for this?" moment Navigating comparison in the social media age Mid-course corrections that help families thrive Encouragement for parents questioning their choice ✨ MEET ZAN IN PERSON THIS NOVEMBER! ✨ Redding: November 8th Fresno: November 15th Get the heart-to-heart encouragement you need at a CHEA Homeschool Mini-Con! Experience community with families who understand your journey and receive refreshment for your homeschool calling. Register now: https://cheaofca.org/ Zan Tyler Podcast: https://zantyler.com/podcast/ Reminder: God doesn't call the equipped—He equips the called. You're not walking this journey alone. CHEA is here to guide you. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
9 Sept 2025
You CAN Homeschool: Why Choosing "Private" is Every California Homeschooler's Path to Freedom
Host: Angela LaschGuest: Dena Bless, CHEA Events Manager & Bay Area/NorCal Regional Advisory Board MemberEpisode Focus: Understanding California's legal homeschool options and the advantages of private home education Episode Overview This episode breaks down California's homeschool legal landscape and explains why the private education path offers the greatest freedom for families. Dena Bless shares her personal homeschool journey and professional expertise to help parents navigate their options with confidence. Action Steps for Listeners Explore Your Options: Research all three legal paths to understand what fits your family Attend CHEA's October 1st PSA Filing Party – Get step by step help on filing the PSA, have fun, get questions answered, and be entered to win some great giveaways Visit cheaofca.org for resources, directory access, and event information Connect with CHEA for ongoing support regardless of which path you choose Key Quotes & Takeaways "The private path isn't just an option - it's your pathway to the educational freedom God intended for your family" "You don't have to navigate this journey alone - CHEA is here to support you every step of the way" "God has equipped you for this calling" "Your family's educational freedom is waiting" About the Guest Dena Bless successfully homeschooled both daughters through graduation and brings years of experience as both a parent and administrator. Along with her husband Ed, she serves on CHEA's Bay Area/NorCal Regional Advisory Board and currently works as CHEA's Events Manager. Her background includes directing a Private School Satellite Program, giving her unique insight into all aspects of California's private homeschool options. This episode empowers California families to understand their legal homeschool options and choose the path that best supports their God-given right and responsibility to direct their children's education. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
12 Aug 2025
More Than a Helper: The Father's Essential Role in Homeschooling
CHEA's California Homeschool Podcast Guest: Dr. Renton RathbunEpisode Focus: The vital role fathers play in Christian homeschooling Episode Description The homeschooling landscape has transformed dramatically over the past 25 years, with today's fathers more engaged than ever before in their children's education. Yet many Christian fathers still wonder: What exactly is my role in homeschooling? Join Angela Lasch as she sits down with Dr. Renton Rathbun, a featured speaker at CHEA's recent Parenting & Homeschool Convention. With over 25 years in higher education, a PhD in apologetics, and real-world homeschooling experience, Dr. Rathbun brings both scholarly insight and practical wisdom to these crucial questions about biblical fatherhood and home education. Whether you're a dad seeking guidance, a mom wanting to support your husband's involvement, or a single mom faithfully navigating this journey, this conversation offers biblical wisdom and practical insights for strengthening your family's homeschool journey. Upcoming CHEA Events Summer Leadership EventAugust 22La Mesa, California (San Diego area) Homeschool Freedom Day with Family Protection MinistriesAugust 23La Mesa, California (San Diego area) Both events offer perfect opportunities to connect with other homeschooling families and leaders. Connect & Resources CHEA (Christian Home Educators Association of California) Website: www.cheaofca.org Event Registration: https://cheaofca.org/summer-leadership-event-2025 Dr. Renton Rathbun Podcast: The Renton Rathbun Show Website: https://rentonrathbun.com/ Background: PhD in Apologetics, 25+ years in higher education, homeschooling father Remember—whether you're partnering together as parents or courageously going it alone, you're not just educating your children; you're raising the next generation of Christian parents. God bless you and your homeschool journey. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
10 Jul 2025
The Learning Curve: A First-Year Parent's Honest Story
Join Angela Lasch for an honest conversation with Shannon Allen, a first-year homeschooler discovering that this educational journey reveals so much more than academic learning. Shannon shares her authentic experience of taking the leap into homeschooling and how it's become a mirror, reflecting not only how her children learn but who she is as a parent and what truly matters to her family. Perfect for first-year homeschoolers, families considering the transition, or anyone who needs to hear a real story about the challenges, joys, and discoveries of home education. Resources https://cheaofca.org/ - For resources, community connection, and donations Support CHEA This podcast is made possible through generous donations from families like yours. If today's episode encouraged you, please consider supporting our mission at https://cheaofca.org/donate-now. Every gift helps us continue providing resources to California's homeschooling community. Remember: God has equipped you for this calling, and every family's learning curve looks different—and that's exactly as it should be. This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call
9 Jun 2025
Grace for the Journey: A Veteran Homeschooler's Perspective on Private Christian Home Education
Veteran homeschooler Vicki Stormoen shares her extensive experience and insights on navigating private Christian home education, especially the high school years, in an interview with Angela Lasch.
9 May 2025
Legacy of Learning: The Generational Impact of Homeschooling
In this inaugural episode of CHEA's California Homeschool Podcast, we welcome Betsy Pierce, a second-generation homeschooling mom of eight children. Betsy shares her unique perspective on homeschooling from both sides—as a former homeschool student and now as a teacher to her own children. She offers valuable insights and encouragement for families considering or currently on their homeschooling journey. Resources Mentioned Family Protection Ministries – www.fpmca.org CHEA's Annual Parenting & Homeschool Convention Dates: May 15-17, 2025 Location: Biola University in La Mirada Features: Workshops, curriculum shopping, community building Connect With Us Website: www.cheaofca.org Subscribe to the podcast on your preferred platform Consider donating to support CHEA's mission of equipping and encouraging homeschooling families https://cheaofca.org/donate Special Thanks The Podcast Upload for their assistance in launching this podcast This podcast is brought to you by The Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA).
5 May 2025
Welcome to the California Homeschool Podcast
The California Homeschool Podcast is your go-to source for equipping and encouraging Christian families on their homeschooling journey. Each episode offers practical guidance on navigating California’s homeschool laws, updates on key legislation, and uplifting support to help you thrive in your calling. Website: https://cheaofca.org/
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
- Apple Podcasts (US)
- 5.0 / 5
- 4 ratings
- Spotify
- 5.0 / 5
- 3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 25 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
- Quality
- 36
- Social presence
- 0
- YouTube
- 0
- Engagement
- 32
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