BaseCamp Live

Get ready to uncover the profound influence of friendship on classical Christian education with our guest, Dr. Chris Perrin. Embark on this enlightening journey as we dissect the types of friendships defined by Aristotle and their implications within educational communities. We'll also shed light on how teachers can use curriculums to instill virtue and demonstrate intellectual virtues to their st...

School safety is a critical issue that affects us all, and no one understands that better than John Niehls, Head of School at Coventry Christian Schools. Following the tragic Sandy Hook incident, John was propelled into the world of school security, gaining valuable insights on how to create an environment that is both welcoming and safe. He believes in the importance of being proactive and draws...

We're thrilled to welcome back Dr. Hal Poe, an esteemed scholar who has delved deep into the life and faith of C.S. Lewis. The conversion of Lewis, a towering figure in the English-speaking world, serves as the centerpiece of our discussion today. We embark on an exploration of his spiritual journey, a voyage that saw him transition from agnosticism to belief, a transformation beautifully detailed...

Heather Lloyd, an education expert with over two decades of experience under her belt, graces us with her presence and in-depth knowledge in our latest conversation. We confront the controversial topic of grading in the realm of classical Christian education, questioning whether it truly measures academic mastery or if we should be focusing on instilling wisdom and virtue in our students.   Naviga...

We're diving into the future of Artificial Intelligence with Josh McCroskey, the insightful Head of School at Ad Fontes Academy. McCroskey shares his extensive knowledge about the rise of AI, its potential impacts on our homes, schools, and its ethical implications.   From pattern recognition to usage in social media and digital technologies, the rise of AI is undeniable. But as we embrace this ne...

In this episode, Davies Owens interviews Dr. Bill Miller about the significance of senior trips for classical Christian students, focusing on the value of bringing learning to life and experiencing different cultures. Dr. Miller emphasizes character and virtue development through the challenges faced during these trips, preparing students for the post-Christian world they are about to enter. Stay...

In this episode of Basecamp Live, host Davies Owens is joined by Savannah Kimberlin from the Barna Group to discuss the unique opportunities and challenges facing the church today. They explore the importance of collaboration between the church, school, and home in raising the next generation. They also delve into the role of classical Christian schools in supporting this partnership. Tune in to g...

Welcome to another episode of BaseCamp Live, where Davies Owens and Allison Buras dissect the labyrinth of interactions between parents and schools. This long-term partnership, they stress, plays a pivotal role in raising the next generation. A successful collaborative approach requires not just open communication, but also a healthy balance of expectation management and trust-building.   Discover...

In this episode of Basecamp Live, Davies interviews Wes Boyd, the Director of Athletics at Providence Christian School of Texas. Wes shares his unique insights into training young people to develop character and embody classical virtues in all aspects of life, including athletics. The episode explores the possibility of integrating faith and athletics, the prioritization of athletics in classical...

In this episode of Basecamp Live, host Davies Owens discusses the growing trend of Classical Christian schools. He interviews Brian Polk, director of school improvement at SCL, who introduces a new survey conducted by researchers that provides quantifiable information on the state of the movement. The episode explores areas where these schools are thriving and areas where more support and resource...

In this episode, Kapic explores the theology behind seeing our human limitations as a gift rather than a deficiency. He lays out a path to holistic living with healthy self-understanding, life-giving relationships, and meaningful contributions to the world. He frees us from confusing our limitations with sin and instead invites us to rest in the joy and relief of knowing that God can use our limit...

In this episode of Basecamp Live, Keith McCurdy discusses the single biggest issue confronting children today and how parents and educators can address it wisely. Drawing from his experiences working with youth and families across the country, Keith provides unique observations and perspectives on this important issue. Join host Davies Owens as they explore ancient future education for raising the...

In this episode of Basecamp Live, Davies Owens has a conversation with his son Liam about his experience with classical Christian education and the issues facing his generation. Liam offers a candid perspective on the challenges of navigating an ever-changing culture and the importance of a timeless education that prepares young people to engage with it thoughtfully and compassionately. The episod...

Join us for this episode of BaseCamp Live, where Davies Owens interviews Chris Hall, a teacher, author, and founder of Always Learning Education. Chris discusses the significance of the servile or common arts and their connection to the liberal arts, a distinction that classical educators often overlook. A life guided by classical principles involves more than just studying the great books; we mus...

Dr. Chap Clark, a professor of practical theology and youth, family, and culture at Fuller Theological Seminary, offers an encouraging gospel-centered hope to help young people navigate the modern world. Drawing on his extensive experience, Dr. Clark emphasizes the importance of nurturing and healing, the use of different avatars, and engaging life faithfully with Jesus. He also stresses the signi...

In this podcast, David Seibel, head of Coram Deo Academy, addresses the challenges faced by classical Christian schools and highlights the crucial role of collaborative leadership. Seibel asserts that these schools require a cohesive vision and a division of labor, involving parents, volunteers, administrators, board members, and business leaders in order to prevent mission drift. He emphasizes th...

In this podcast, Andrew Zwerneman, the head and president of Cana Academy, discusses the importance of cultural formation in education. He advocates for a classical education that teaches students to appreciate the true, the good, and the beautiful, and to develop skills in reading, discussing, and writing. According to Zwerneman, education is a cultural shaping activity, and schools are one of th...

In this thought-provoking episode, Savannah Kimberlin, the Associate Vice President of Church Engagement at Barna Group, delves into the challenges that Gen Z, parents, and educators are facing in today's society. With Gen Z growing up in a "pressure cooker" environment, there is immense internal and external pressure on them to be perfect, which has led to declining faith and mental health issues...

In this installment of Basecamp Live, Davies Owens engages in a discussion with Jason Barney on the art of effective motivation, both for our children and ourselves. The conventional "carrot and stick" approach often falls short in reaching the hearts of students, leaving us to ponder whether there are better alternatives. Jason delves into the intricate relationship between our children's emotion...

The art of questioning is a foundational pillar of education, serving as a vehicle for learning, guiding, and elevating both educators and learners alike. For those committed to the principles of Classical Christian Education, it is imperative to reflect upon the kinds of questions that parents, educators, and administrators ought to be posing to their pupils. In this regard, Scott McElvain, the c...

Classical Christian education goes beyond imparting knowledge in reading, writing, and arithmetic. It is not just limited to Christian education either, as it encompasses the formation of the human soul. The objective is to shape students who possess a love for the things that God loves. This requires a comprehensive approach that includes not only the curriculum and classrooms but also personal i...

As a listener of BaseCamp Live, you likely recognize the significance of reading in shaping our minds, character, and habits. One of the fundamental pillars of any Classical Christian school is reading books that have withstood the test of time. However, in today's world, where screens dominate our daily lives, the act of picking up a book can feel less intuitive than it did just a few decades ago...

What is happening in schools around the country and how have they changed over the past few decades? What dangerous challenges might we face in the near future? Join us for a fascinating conversation on the latest episode of BCL, as we welcome back Keith McCurdy, Christian counselor and CCE advocate. Keith will be answering your questions and sharing updates from the front lines of our school camp...

Latest statistics indicate that the average American spends more than seven hours a day looking at a screen with younger Gen Z individuals averaging more than nine hours. Classical Christian schools have the advantage of influencing students’ lives for an average of six hours every school day. As we raise up the next generation, how can we be wide eyed as to the ever-changing challenges of technol...

Our schools exist to raise up the next generation to love the true, the good, and the beautiful and to form hearts and minds and shape affections. Parents contribute financially through the tuition they pay, often at great sacrifice. And yet in almost all cases for non-profit schools, they still need additional funds to reach all their goals from operations to building campaigns. Are there ways fo...