Empowering Homeschool Conversations

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Dawn Jackson dives into the critical topic of learning dispositions and modalities with Educational Therapist and Learning-Success™ Coach Mariaemma Willis. Discover how understanding your child’s unique approach to learning can help you avoid common teaching pitfalls and create a more effective and enjoyable homeschool experi...

In this episode, host Peggy Ployhar is joined by Jonas Koblin, award-winning education innovator and founder of the Sprouts YouTube channel. Jonas shares insights from his book, The Unschooler’s Educational Dictionary, a must-read guide for parents exploring alternative education models. Discover practical tips and inspiring ideas to navigate homeschooling and beyond, as we dive into approac...

Join host Peggy Ployhar on Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she welcomes Dr. Jan Bedell, a master NeuroDevelopmentalist, experienced educator, and Board Chair of SPED Homeschool. Dr. Jan’s journey began as a homeschooling mom seeking solutions for her struggling learner, leading her to discover the Neuro-Developmental Approach, which optimizes brain function for better learning. With d...

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar welcomes Anne Laure Jackson, a seasoned Occupational Therapist with over 30 years of experience and a dedicated Sensory Health Coach. Anne Laure shares her passion for equipping families with the tools and knowledge to understand, assess, and manage sensory needs, helping unique learners thrive in their homeschool environme...

Could play be the key to helping homeschoolers thrive? In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar is joined by Alan Tang, founder of CoLab, an innovative online program that uses games, discussions, and escape rooms to equip kids with essential skills for the modern world. Alan’s journey—from corporate finance and culinary arts to education—has ins...

Ready to Help Your Child Thrive? Join us as we explore Whole-Child Readiness—Body, Mind & Soul! In this insightful episode, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with Heidi Tringali, an experienced pediatric Occupational Therapist, speaker, and founder of Tringali Occupational Therapy Services (T.O.T.S). Heidi’s 30+ years in OT have equipped her with simple, effective strategies to prepare...

Join host Dawn Jackson from the Empowering Homeschool Conversations podcast as she sits down with Dr. Selena Coffman, a nervous system-based chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner, to explore how chiropractic care can support children with autism and ADHD. Dr. Coffman shares her expertise in addressing root causes of nervous system dysregulation and practical ways to promote calm, focus...

In this powerful episode, host Peggy Ployhar and guest Elizabeth Urbanowicz delve into the journey of overcoming bullying through a lens of faith. With Elizabeth’s rich background in Christian education and her passion for developing critical thinking and biblical worldview in children, they explore practical ways to help young hearts and minds heal, forgive, and find joy rooted in Christ. J...

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar and guest Suzanne Gose explore how learning a second language can be a powerful tool for struggling learners. Suzanne, a former public school teacher, transitioned to homeschooling over two decades ago when her love for teaching inspired her to offer local Spanish classes. Since that first small offering, Suzanne has taught...

Join host Peggy Ployhar on this festive episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she welcomes Annie Yorty, a wife, mother, writer, and speaker known for offering hope and encouragement to families navigating life's challenges. Together, Peggy and Annie share creative ideas and heartfelt inspiration on how to throw a meaningful birthday party for Jesus, helping families keep Christ at the...

Join the Empowering Homeschool Conversations team as they dive into practical ways to support your unique learner in all settings. From finding your voice in co-ops to addressing challenges on field trips and handling interactions in public spaces, this episode provides practical real-life tips and encouragement for parents. Discover strategies to help your child feel understood, confident, and em...

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar is joined by Stefanie Hohl, M.Ed., an experienced educator and reading specialist, to discuss "Unlocking Literacy: Empowering Kids with Disabilities to Read." Stefanie, who has spent years teaching children to read, holds advanced degrees in children’s literature and early childhood education. Her dedication to making readi...

Join host Peggy Ployhar for an inspiring episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she chats with Christine Zell, a homeschooling mom to four, wife to her high school sweetheart, and creator of the Rabbit Trails Homeschool curriculum. Christine shares her journey of embracing a relaxed homeschooling atmosphere by letting go of the small things, focusing on enjoying her children, and cultiv...

Another inspiring episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations with host Peggy Ployhar dives into the topic of "Nurturing Creativity: How Parents Can Empower Unique Learners at Home" with Chad Stewart, a prolific writer, creativity specialist, and founder of Devonfield. Chad shares why creativity is now the most important skill parents can cultivate in their children and offers practical strateg...

Welcome to another episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations! Join host Peggy Ployhar, the Founder and CEO of SPED Homeschool, as she welcomes two incredible guests: Tricia Goyer and Sherri Seligson, MEd, for an inspiring conversation on "Happy Mothering: Embracing God’s Love and Navigating the Chaos of Your Calling." In this episode, Peggy, Tricia, and Sherri dive into how mothers can embrac...

In this heartfelt episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar welcomes Sharon Jaynes, international speaker and bestselling author of twenty-six books, including Praying for Your Child from Head to Toe. Sharon, formerly the vice president of Proverbs 31 Ministries and co-host of their radio program, brings her deep well of wisdom to a conversation about finding hope and stre...

What can we learn about bravery and trust from a guide dog? In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations , co-host Stephanie Buckwalter sits down with Michael Hingson, New York Times bestselling author of Thunder Dog , to explore the incredible story of his survival on 9/11 and the life-changing lessons guide dogs can teach us. Michael and his guide dog Roselle escaped from the 78th floo...

In this enlightening episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, Peggy Ployhar sits down with Kristy Anderson, an ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist with over 20 years of experience. Together, they dive deep into effective speech strategies that can help homeschool parents support their children in building stronger communication skills, improving social interaction, and fostering self...

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar, SPED Homeschool Founder and CEO, is joined by Uzma Akser—homeschool mom, Executive & Leadership Coach (ACC), Certified Autism Specialist, and Neuroinclusion Advocate. Uzma shares her unique coaching strategies that empower homeschool success by turning children's passions into learning opportunities, especially for uni...

In this insightful episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar, Founder & CEO of SPED Homeschool, sits down with Marianne Sunderland, a seasoned homeschool mom and creator of Homeschooling with Dyslexia. Marianne, a mother of eight children—seven of whom are dyslexic—has years of firsthand experience navigating the challenges of homeschooling children with language-based...

In a world where screens dominate our daily lives, how can parents ensure their children navigate the digital landscape with wisdom and faith? Join us for a powerful discussion that offers practical advice and spiritual guidance for today’s tech-savvy families. In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with David Tucker, a seasoned pastor, technology exec...

Are you stretching every dollar to make your homeschool budget work? In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with Krisa Winn, a seasoned homeschooling consultant and the new SPED Homeschool Director of Consulting and Partnerships, to explore the key to maximizing your homeschool budget. Discover how working with an educational consultant can be a game-c...

Are you homeschooling a struggling learner and searching for strategies that really work? In this must-listen episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with co-host Dawn Jackson to delve into the top approach for achieving homeschool success with your child. Dawn shares her expert insights and practical tips that every parent should know to create an effective an...

Join us for a moving conversation as co-host Stephanie Buckwalter from Empowering Homeschool Conversations sits down with Jenn Soehnlin, a devoted mother of two precious boys with special needs. Jenn shares her heartfelt journey of faith, the power of praying Scripture, and the unique challenges and blessings of special needs parenting. In this episode, you'll discover how to deepen your own praye...

In this enriching episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, four of our five dedicated hosts, experienced special education homeschooling moms, come together for a power-packed discussion on a pertinent seasonal topic: Smooth Transitions: Easing Special Needs Kids Back into Homeschool Routines This episode is packed with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and lots of helpful insights aime...