BaseCamp Live

If you spend time in classical Christian schools you’ll probably hear the phrase “the true, the good, and the beautiful.” These ideals represent the highest values and aspirations of humanity originating in Greek philosophy and found throughout the works of Plato- but what do they actually mean, and why do they matter today… beyond being an inspiring slogan or an ideal phrase to put on a wall hang...

In this historical episode of BaseCamp Live, Host Davies Owens is behind the mic for a candid discussion with his daughter about his unorthodox start in classical education, what challenges he sees facing the movement, and how his new mission is inspiring him like never before. They also share the history and future of this podcast as well as a huge announcement that will certainly excite parents,...

Proverbs tells us that joy and laughter are good medicine for the soul, but the Bible also cautions us against foolish talk and crude joking. So what role should humor play in our classrooms, hallways, and homes?  It is especially challenging when so much of what is presented to us today in the world is humor that is often inappropriate and at someone else’s expense.  Join us for this episode of B...

In recent decades, classical education has experienced significant growth both in the U.S. and globally. This educational approach takes various forms, including traditional five-day programs, hybrid/collaborative models, and homeschooling. Alongside these formats, a flurry of terms like “classical Christian,” “Christian classical,” “classical liberal arts,” and “humanities education” have emerged...

St. Augustine famously remarked that “to sing is to pray twice.” Music and arts play vital roles in our daily lives and are essential components of any classical Christian school or home. However, engaging meaningfully with traditional forms of music, as well as with worship through prayer and Scripture, can be challenging—especially if we don’t have good examples around us as adults and the idea...

Episode Summary This episode focuses on an often overlooked topic: the image of God and how to apply it to daily life. Davies interviews Lauren McAfee, who shares her personal journey and discusses how her family's involvement in the Hobby Lobby Supreme Court case influenced her interest in the image of God. Next, Davies and Lauren dive into the fundamental insights of her book, featuring contribu...

About This Episode On this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies and Josh Mulvihill talk about his newest book, 50 Things Every Child Needs Before Leaving Home. Imagine the day your child graduates. Are they ready? Do they have a faith in Christ that will endure? Are they ready to think well and have the critical thinking and hands-on life skills necessary to successfully negotiate the complexity of th...

Episode Summary: Ever told a child to go to their room and do their homework and study? It assumes they know how to study on their own. In this episode of BaseCamp Live Davies Owens and Susan Ison discuss the importance of study skills for students of all ages. They discuss the lack of direct instruction in study skills in schools, the significance of teaching techniques like note-taking and time...

Episode Summary: In this episode of BaseCamp Live Davies Owens and Mack Ogren explore the various stages of parenting. Mack has spent several decades working with JH Ranch, where he has worked with thousands of parents and students providing this helpful framework. They discuss the need for parents to transition from being primary caretakers to becoming consultants, offering age appropriate guidan...

Episode Summary: In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies and Dr. David Diener discuss how technology has changed education and why classical education is important for this cultural moment. Dr. Diener emphasizes that classical education plays a crucial role in fostering critical thinking and adaptability, essential skills for navigating the complexities of the modern age. In critiquing the profit...

Episode Summary: In this BaseCamp Live conversation, Davies and Chris Swanson from Gutenberg College discuss how to foster independent thought in a society where cultural influences are inescapable, leading to a broader discussion on the shift from rationalism and logic to emotional and unarticulated assumptions in decision-making. Chris argues for the significance of liberal arts education in exa...

Episode Summary: Episode Four of the Live Sturdy Conversations Series, Keith and Davies discuss the impact of technology on parenting and education. They discuss the need for a clear understanding of children's behavior and the challenges of implementing technology use due to widespread tech addiction. Keith supports technology but emphasizes the need to be discerning in its use, challenging myths...

Episode Summary: In this episode of BaseCamp Live, host Davies Owens engages in a thought-provoking conversation with bestselling author and scholar Nancy Pearcey about her latest book, The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes . Pearcey, a respected figure in evangelical circles, sheds light on modern masculinity’s cultural challenges and offers insights into how Christi...

Episode Summary: Join us for an enlightening conversation with Tami Peterson, Founder and CEO of Life Architects, a renowned career coaching and consulting group. Host Davies Owens delves into instilling a solid work ethic in today’s youth, exploring the challenges and solutions in partnership between schools and homes. Sponsor Highlights:  Wilson Hill Academy Classic Learning Test America's Chris...

Episode Summary: Over the past two decades, classical education has witnessed rapid growth and high demand, transforming from a niche concept to a widely recognized educational approach. From traditional classrooms to homeschooling environments, the surge in interest begs the question: Is classical education merely a passing trend, or are we experiencing an educational renaissance? In this episode...

Episode #275: Navigating the Challenges of Classical Education: Finding the Right Balance Guest: Heather Lloyd Episode Summary: In this episode of BaseCamp Live, we tackle the question: Are Classical Christian schools too challenging? Join us as we explore the nuances of academic rigor, individual learning needs, and the balance between challenging students and overwhelming them. With special gues...

BaseCamp Live Podcast Episode #274: Nurturing Spiritual Formation in Today's Youth Guest: Dr. Chap Clark Episode Summary: Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Chap Clark, a distinguished researcher and scholar dedicated to the well-being of young people. With decades of experience in youth ministry, academia, and church leadership, Dr. Clark shares invaluable insights into nurturing s...

BaseCamp Live Episode #273: Are Classical Schools Elitist? Guest: Megan Atherton Episode Summary: In a world where the idea of excellence can sometimes be misconstrued as elitism, classical education is often scrutinized. Uniforms, a rigorous curriculum, and a culture that upholds values of truth, goodness, and beauty can sometimes give off an impression of exclusivity. But is classical Christian...

Unlock the secrets to elevating your child's educational journey as we embark on a thought-provoking discussion with Mandi Moore, a trailblazing parent and administrator. Together, we tackle the essence of student success, examining how a nurturing home environment and strategic partnerships between educators and parents, like those fostered at Seattle Classical Christian School, lay the groundwor...

Navigating the twists and turns of parenting and education can be daunting, but imagine the beauty of seeing those efforts bloom in one's own child. As Davies Owens sat down with his daughter Hannah, they traversed the memories of her classical Christian education, the values it instilled, and the indelible mark it left as she stepped out into the world. This episode is a heartfelt dialogue betwee...

Have you ever pondered the monumental impact that educators and parents have in shaping a student's journey toward self-discovery and adulthood? With Tami Peterson's return to our dialogue, we immerse ourselves in the profound exploration of this transformative phase. Our conversation delves into the essence of education, far surpassing the simple accumulation of knowledge, to embrace a more holis...

Ever feel like you're juggling too many balls, only to realize they're actually flaming torches? You're not alone; we all face the pandemonium of modern life, particularly in our homes and schools. In this episode, Davies Owens sits down with the insightful Keith McCurdy to share experiences and offer tangible strategies to those grappling with the chaos of daily life. Their conversation revolves...

Unlock the secret strengths of a classical Christian education as it intersects with STEM, a narrative brought to life by my guest, Jim Dolas of Heritage Preparatory School. Prepare to be astounded by how this traditional educational model excels in fostering a profound understanding of math and sciences, proving that the humanities and technical fields are not worlds apart, but rather complementa...

Have you ever wondered how to steer your child through the labyrinth of education to a fulfilling career? Join Davies Owens and Deborah Allen, as they unpack the art of nurturing K-12 students toward their unique callings and the thoughtful choices that shape their future. Amidst a landscape where the value of a college degree is hotly debated, they address parental concerns, the significance of g...

Discover the secrets to fostering wisdom and eloquence in the next generation as we engage with Dr. Robert Littlejohn, whose book "Wisdom and Eloquence" remains a cornerstone in educational leadership after 17 years. Prepare to be enlightened by Dr. Littlejohn's profound insights on how we can raise compassionate thinkers in a world that's rapidly changing. This thought-provoking episode peels bac...