Published by Homeschool Made Simple
For the young parents, the veteran homeschoolers, or anyone navigating the waters of homeschool options, nationally-known speaker and educational consultant, Carole Joy Seid, helps you homeschool simply, inexpensively, and enjoyably with a Bible, math curriculum, and library card. Great books have the power to build godly family culture and give educational success! If you need a weekly shot of encouragement and support to continue on with confident joy in your homeschooling journey, listen in.
Listen on Apple Podcasts25 min
Do you want your child to develop a love of art? This episode from the archive shares doable ways to make art a natural part of your homeschool routine. The discussion explores how to spot good art, some must-have book picks, and why quality matters—even when you’re on a budget. Learn about resources from classic children’s art books to tips for visiting museums and setting up a creative space at home. The key theme: making art fun, meaningful, and totally doable for every family! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
34 min
You know we say “better late than early” in our method. In this episode, Carole and Rachel focus on why it’s actually better to delay formal handwriting work, especially for boys, and how following your child’s developmental cues can make learning much more enjoyable. One concept discussed was using fun, hands-on activities and a simple, artistic approach, like the Getty-Dubay Italic method, to build writing confidence. If you want practical tips on making handwriting—and homeschooling—simpler and happier, tune in and be encouraged! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
34 min
Not sure how to make math work in your homeschool? This episode is packed with down-to-earth advice for keeping math simple, not starting too early, and helping your kids enjoy it! Several points were raised, including using games and daily routines to build math skills naturally, plus an honest look at popular programs like CTC Math and Right Start Math. If you want your kids to love math—and you want less stress—this episode will help you breathe easier and teach with confidence! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of curricula and tools mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
32 min
Psalty has been a staple in some Christian families for decades. Carole and Rachel discuss the depth that the Psalty albums provide for growing our children’s faith for the long haul. They discuss the themes in each album and other music that have shaped JJ and her grandchildren. They talk about practical ways that encourage kids to reach for Psalty. Your young child will be enchanted by Psalty, so join us to hear all about it! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of albums mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Nat Theo Mentioned in this episode: Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy
20 min
In part 2 of Rachel’s conversation with homeschool mom of 4, Hanni Go shares her journey of breaking free from the pressure of following other homeschooling families. She has chosen to value relationships and nurturing her children over the academic rigor that others might expect. Carole’s proven teaching methods and the example of the many families who have used them have encouraged Hanni to ditch the comparison trap to see her children be who God made them to be. RESOURCES +Download your own copy of the Truths to Remember list + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
29 min
In this episode from the archive, Rachel Winchester talks with Hanni Go, a homeschooling mom of 4, about searching for a fresh homeschool perspective that helped revitalize their family dynamic. Hanni talks us through the balancing act between nurturing relationships and academic pursuits. Though it took some time for her to fully buy into the Homeschool Made Simple method, she now sees the benefit of grounding herself in a research-based philosophy of education. When Hanni needed a fresh perspective on homeschooling, she attended A Literature-Based Approach to Education seminar in Minnesota. Afterward, she wrote a list of truths to remember when she feels discouraged. Rachel and Hanni discuss her takeaways from that seminar. We know you will relate to Hanni, and we hope this gives you the fuel to press on! You’ll hear about: How Hanni handles difficult days A big age gap between kids When you feel burnt out in homeschooling The difference going to an HMS seminar made for Hanni Truths to remember when you feel burnt out RESOURCES + Download your own copy of Truths to Remember! + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10 Voetberg Music Academy
37 min
In the second part of our conversation with Lovely Bits Magazine writer and homeschool mom, Nicole Brignolle, we discuss the value of curiosity, connecting with local history, and seeing beauty in everyday life—not just chasing big, expensive adventures. We discuss the importance of rereading trusted classics, resisting performance-driven schooling, and nurturing each child’s uniqueness. Plus, we unpacked how centering God and beauty can inspire new projects, such as the Lovely Bits magazine, that blends faith and aesthetic excellence to uplift readers. Join us and enjoy! RESOURCES + Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto + Home Grown Kids and Better Late Than Early by Raymond and Dorothy Moore + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10 Voetberg Music Academy Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
20 min
In this episode, we talk with Nicole Brignolle, a former New Yorker now homeschooling in rural Tuscany. Her family's unexpected relocation led to a refreshing shift away from over-scheduled days and performance-based learning. They found freedom in using our literature-based approach by prioritizing margin, creativity, and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This episode is filled with helpful mindset shifts around your homeschool and your priorities. Plus, you’ll hear plenty of encouragement from your family without having to move to a foreign country! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10 Voetberg Music Academy Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
16 min
In the last of our series with Dr. Sears, he shares lots of practical ways to work wellness into your family life for raising healthy, resilient teenagers through intentional nutrition, sleep, and screen habits. Dr. William Sears shares insights into the science of sleep for brain health and the revolutionary concept of Neuro-Theology—how faith and neuroscience work together for each person's well-being. Join us! RESOURCES + The Smart Health Plan: Five Steps to Lasting Health and Happiness for All Ages , By Dr Williams Sears + The Anti-Alzheimer’s Prescription:The Science-Proven Plan to Start at Any Age , By Vincent Fortanasce, M.D. + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Unplugged Children Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10 Voetberg Music Academy Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
30 min
We welcome back Chelsea Jacobs from Yellow House Story Shop to discuss the realities and rewards of homeschooling a child with special needs. Chelsea honestly shares her family’s journey, including the adoption of her son Gabe from Rwanda, his cerebral palsy diagnosis, and the everyday joys and challenges of homeschooling alongside complex medical needs and other neurotypical children. With 14 years of homeschooling under Chelsea’s belt, we hope this episode is a great encouragement to all who are walking the same path! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Learn More about CTCMath Mentioned in this episode: Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars Pick up the book, Family Worship, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Family Worship
23 min
Part 2 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind! The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year but also provides a valuable community of like-minded families. Both of the Clonts now recognize the importance of following this clear, consistent educational plan rather than “hybridizing” multiple methods, which can lead to overwhelm and a lack of cohesion. Join us! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Unplugged Children Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Pick up the book, Family Worship, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Family Worship Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
20 min
Part 1 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind! The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year but also provides a valuable community of like-minded families. Anna discusses her initial doubt about homeschooling, the encouragement she received, and how her confidence grew as she saw positive results in her children. Join us! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Pick up the book, Arlo Takes Off, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 % off with a free Crossway Plus account. Arlo Takes Off Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
24 min
How do you continue homeschooling when life gets hard? Rachel Winchester sits down with Becca Goodpaster to share her family’s journey through unemployment and transition. They prioritized family, leaned on the Lord, and were willing to share their struggles with their community, who helped tremendously. If you’re experiencing a crisis or change, this episode offers hope and practical wisdom for resiliency and perseverance! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars Pick up the book, For The Bible Tells Me So, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. For The Bible Tells Me So
34 min
Are you a homeschool parent feeling unsure about teaching history because you don’t know as much about it as you would like? In this episode, Rachel Winchester shares how she began re-learning American history on her own by reading great books. She discusses the importance of approaching history through engaging stories and biographies, and that learning history can be enjoyable and deeply enriching. She reviews a variety of books she’s read on American history—from foundational texts like "Land of Hope" and biographies of key figures, to novels and family read-alouds that bring historical periods to life. Join us! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars Pick up the book, How Should We Then Live, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. How Should We Then Live?
31 min
Rachel Winchester and David Arroyo, a seasoned homeschool dad and board member, discuss the benefits of homeschooling teen boys, providing an environment free from distractions such as technology and negative peer influence. David shares his family's experiences, including how homeschooling helped his sons develop a genuine love of reading and how it strengthened their family relationships. David also shares the idea of educating "poet warriors"—children who are both disciplined and creative. A great episode for parents who want to be intentional guides in their children’s lives and to embrace a whole-person education! RESOURCES +Books mentioned: Keeper of the Bees by Gene Stratton Porter and Hold On to Your Kids by Gabor Maté and Gordon Neufeld + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Pick up a copy of Don't Waste Your Life wherever books are sold or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Don't Waste Your Life Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
35 min
Are you homeschooling a teen girl? Rachel Winchester sits down with Chelsea Jacobs, a homeschool mom of three girls, to discuss how to navigate the teen years with flexibility. They explore how they balance academics, work, and service to help their teen girls thrive in whatever they do. Chelsea shares how she supports their emotional needs, encourages their unique passions, and maintains meaningful family traditions—even as schedules get busier. This episode will inspire you to continue looking to the Lord for wisdom as you navigate these potentially choppy waters! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars Pick up the book, New Morning Mercies For Teens, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. New Morning Mercies for Teens
24 min
Carole Joy Seid continues to talk with her longtime friend and renowned pediatrician Dr William Sears, in part 2 of our three-part series. They discuss the evolving nature of attachment as children grow, the importance of family culture, healthy discipline, and the unique role grandparents can play in supporting both parents and grandchildren. Other topics they discuss: + investing time in the early years for spiritual development + managing screen time + practical strategies for fostering healthier habits + the benefits of outdoor play and movement for a child’s physical and mental health + the 5 healthy steps for healthy bodies RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Unplugged Children Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars Pick up the book, For the Children's Sake, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. For The Children's Sake
24 min
In part one of this special three-part series, Carole Joy Seid sits down with her longtime friend and author, Dr. William Sears, a leading voice in attachment parenting. They discuss the science and heart behind attachment—from the earliest days in the womb to toddlerhood and beyond. Learn how talking, singing, and even humming to your unborn child lays a foundation for lifelong bonding, and why practices like "the golden hour," babywearing, and investing time with your little ones pay exponential dividends. Join us! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars Pick up the book, The Biggest Story Bible Storybook, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. The Biggest Story Bible Storybook
31 min
Today, in part two of Rachel’s conversation with seasoned homeschool parents, Jason and Bre Kemp unpack the real-life strategies behind managing their family of 7. You’ll hear how they prioritize meaningful family dinners, find community both inside and outside the homeschool world, and intentionally build lasting memories through serving and working together. Perfect for parents seeking practical guidance on homeschooling with a large family, protecting family time, and keeping Christ at the center of their journey. RESOURCES +Books mentioned in this episode: 'Brian' series of books by Gary Paulsen and Old Yeller + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Pick up a copy of this parenting book wherever books are sold, or visit Crossway.org to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars
30 min
Rachel Winchester welcomes Jason and Bre Kemp, experienced homeschool parents from California, to share their family’s journey with their five children. The conversation centers on fostering a balanced approach to education through the “three-legged stool” concept: work, study, and service. Jason and Bre discuss how they incorporate daily work and service into their children’s routines, including outdoor chores, cooking, and serving at their church. They share how these experiences have instilled discipline, responsibility, and gratitude in their children in an ever-evolving way as they age. RESOURCES +Books mentioned in this episode: Farmer Boy, The Hawk and Dove Trilogy + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Join us in Dallas, TX, Aug 29, 2026 for a seminar! HMS 2026 Seminars Pick up the book, Remaking the World: How 1776 Created the Post-Christian West, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Remaking the World: How 1776 Created the Post-Christian West
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