Zan Tyler Podcast: Thriving in Your Homeschool

Can one mom’s decision to stay close to her children really shape the course of their lives? Meet Ginger Wayde, a veteran homeschooling mom of six, who learned that meaningful connection is at the heart of lasting impact—connection to faith, to family, and to a lifelong love of learning. She and Zan talk about the beautiful messiness of homeschooling multiple ages, late-night talks with teens, and...

What's it like to homeschool when you're completely blind? Zan welcomes Faye Abbas—musician, mom, and pioneer—who homeschooled her two sons for 15 years without sight. Zan and Faye share stories from their decades-long friendship and God's faithfulness through every challenge. From boarding school memories to late-night lesson planning, Faye's journey is full of grit, humor, and hope. Be inspired...

How do we pass on a love for freedom to our kids and protect the rights that make it possible? Zan and producer Caleb Price celebrate a powerful Supreme Court ruling that reaffirms parental rights and explore what it means to raise children who love their country. From summer homeschooling habits to honoring American heroes, this episode offers timely reminders that freedom isn’t automatic—it must...

What happens when students educated through relationship, relevance, and rigor step into the real world? In this special commencement address to 170+ SCAIHS graduates and hundreds of their families and friends, Zan celebrates the remarkable outcomes of homeschooled students—from leading military explosive ordnance classes to earning top college scholarships to taking campus leadership roles. She h...

Why are Black homeschoolers one of the fastest-growing demographics in home education? Zan Tyler and LaNissir James, HSLDA's Black Outreach Coordinator and mom of seven, explore what's fueling this explosive growth and how authentic community helps families thrive. Additionally, learn why legislators need to see your face and meet your family. Be inspired to connect locally, show up with your kids...

What if the teen years could become the most meaningful part of your homeschool journey? Zan and LaNissir James, HSLDA high school specialist and homeschool mom of seven, share how to build unshakable bonds with your teens. They explore sparking entrepreneurship through everyday interests and weaving Scripture into daily life. From late-night heart-to-hearts to unexpected teachable moments, discov...

Why do we automatically think homeschoolers are "weird" when the data tells a completely different story? Zan and her producer Caleb Price react to viral clips and breaking news that challenge everything we've been conditioned to believe about homeschooling. From a mom questioning why she keeps putting her kids "back on the bus" despite constant complaints about school, to shocking statistics show...

How can a simple field trip spark a lifelong love of learning? Zan and homeschool consultant Elizabeth Pyle share how field trips can turn ordinary days into unforgettable learning adventures, and Elizabeth explains her three-question strategy that turns casual conversations into meaningful reflection. Zan and Elizabeth discuss the benefits of embracing spontaneity, curiosity, and your local surro...

What if the real education begins when you start teaching your own kids? In this episode, Zan Tyler talks with Elizabeth Pyle—a CPA with a master’s in taxation and a homeschool mom of two—about the surprising lessons she’s learned through homeschooling. Elizabeth shares how leaving traditional school behind and using BJU Press curriculum helped her finally understand math concepts she once thought...

Can you homeschool your kids without giving up your own God-given dreams? Zan Tyler sits down with Ro Uwague to talk about balancing motherhood, faith, and entrepreneurship. They share honest insights about curriculum overwhelm, learning beyond the desk, and why family socialization often beats the traditional classroom. Ro opens up about trading corporate success for the call to homeschool—and ho...

When should your child be reading—and how do you know if they are a late bloomer or have a learning issue? Zan and producer Caleb Price tackle this question that keeps so many homeschool moms up at night, sharing honest stories, expert tips, and the importance of trusting God’s timing. They also unpack urgent news from across the country about growing threats to homeschool freedom—and what parents...

What happens when homeschooling meets cattle drives and calving season? Zan is joined by Brandee Gillham, a fourth-generation ranch wife and homeschool mom of four boys, for a rich conversation about raising sons with faith, grit, and purpose. After surviving cancer, Brandee felt called to educate her children at home—blending Scripture, saddle-making, and discipleship into everyday life. Zan and...

What transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary motivation? Zan Tyler and Jonathan Brush tackle a 12-year-old listener's question about self-productivity, while exploring the vital difference between thriving and mere success. Jonathan explains how purpose-driven goals create lasting motivation, and Zan’s encouragement highlights how homeschooling naturally fosters self-direction through tailo...

What happens when kids know Bible stories but don’t truly understand God’s Word? Zan Tyler talks with homeschool dad and theologian Renton Rathbun about why systematic Bible teaching is essential for your child’s faith journey. Together, they share how to create a Bible program at home that goes beyond devotionals and helps your children stand firm in today’s culture. You’ll hear practical ideas a...

What if school didn’t come with permission slips, rigid schedules, or one-size-fits-all rules? Veteran homeschool advocate Zan Tyler and producer Caleb Price break down why more families than ever are turning to homeschooling—and how it’s changing lives. From flexible routines and real-world learning to faith-centered curriculum and support for twice-exceptional learners, this conversation is fill...

What if the foundation of American education was never meant to be separated from faith? Zan and Alex Newman explore how the Bible formed the cornerstone of early American education, from Harvard's original mission to classroom instruction nationwide. Alex shares historical insights about our founding fathers who viewed Scripture as the ultimate authority for knowledge and governance. Discover how...

Could homeschooling be the greatest adventure your family ever takes together? Award-winning journalist Alex Newman shares how education beyond classroom walls transformed his family's life, creating opportunities to explore ancient ruins, trek through national parks, and build unforgettable memories. Alex reveals why spending time with his six children is his favorite thing in the world, challeng...

Does attending a homeschool convention really help? In today's unique episode, Zan interviews two guests back to back. Nancy Manos has served as the director for a state homeschool convention and a national homeschool conference. She and Zan discuss why gathering with thousands of like-minded families transforms the homeschool experience. Zan then introduces Kristin Christianson, a second-generati...

How do you find joy when your soul feels empty? Kristi Clover shares her experience at her father's bedside and the unexpected peace that found her in grief. Zan and Kristi discuss practical strategies for navigating depression, the importance of having a "safe person," and why simplifying your homeschool during difficult seasons isn't failure. Their honest conversation reminds us that true joy is...

What happens when the winter blues meet homeschool burnout? Through raw conversations and personal stories, Zan and Kristi Clover tackle the reality of midwinter homeschool struggles and feelings of depression. Kristi shares her journey through burnout and discovering her identity beyond motherhood. Together, they explore how faith, counseling, and honest conversations help navigate difficult seas...

What if education decisions were made closer to home? Zan welcomes back attorney Will Estrada to discuss the potential dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education. Will traces the history of federal involvement in education from 1647 through today, sharing how test scores have declined despite monumental increases in federal spending. Together they explore how returning educational authority t...

What does it take to protect the freedoms we often take for granted? Zan and producer Caleb Price review trending homeschool videos, from humorous moments to inspiring sports stories about collegiate opportunities for homeschool athletes. The conversation turns serious when Zan shares concerning news about Illinois' proposed homeschool bill that would allow unannounced home visits. Drawing from he...

What if focusing on your child’s potential matters more than your own limitations? Karim Morato once thought homeschooling was "completely crazy" - especially for a first-generation immigrant teaching in her second language. Now this passionate advocate helps Hispanic families embrace home education across cultural and language barriers. Zan and Karim share stories of building trust through person...

Do you ever feel lonely as a homeschool parent? Zan and her dear friend Heidi St. John have a heart-to-heart conversation about the invaluable benefits of building community. Heidi shares how she went from being a lonely mom who came into homeschooling kicking and screaming to founding thriving homeschool co-ops and resource centers across North America. Zan and Heidi discuss the power of persever...

What do you think about legislation that would track homeschoolers even in Sunday School? Have others pressured you about your child’s socialization? In this unique episode, Zan and her producer Caleb Price, homeschool father of 5, analyze viral homeschool content and discuss everything from daily schedules to educational freedom. Drawing from their own experiences, Zan and Caleb provide encourage...