The NorthStar Narrative

We explore how intimacy with God moves us from striving to overflow with Dr. Jodi Hook, former NorthStar teacher and author of Beloved Discipleship. Her stories, research, and practices help students hear God’s voice, quiet perfectionism, and trust the future to Jesus.

• turning a doctoral project into a practical guide for intimacy with God
• hearing God through Scripture, silence, and playful attention
• shifting...

We share Ben’s journey from selective mutism and to bold faith, deep community, and a calling that blends real estate with ministry. The conversation gets practical on reframing blessing, building godly friendships, and taking back attention from screens.

• Life update on real estate plans in Northwest Arkansas
• Outdoor passions as joy and renewal
• College community that lasts beyond campus
• Summer camp less...

We trace a journey from college plans and depression to a daily practice of surrender that reshapes calling, marriage, and local mission. Chana shares life among refugees in Chicago’s West Ridge, why betrothal made theological sense, and how faithful presence changes a block.

• Moody years shaping spiritual formation and resilience
• Moving from one-time to ongoing surrender
• Reframing missions beyond overseas to ...

Lionel Cable joins us to share how a Christ-centered, whole child model in Memphis is opening doors for under-resourced families through rigorous academics, deep relationships, and a culture of joy. Lionel walks us through New Hope’s origin, outcomes, farm and forest learning, alumni support, and bold plans to expand.

• founding vision rooted in urban Christian education
• five keys of teaching, learning, discipleship,...

Laura Barringer shares her journey from kindergarten teacher to co-author with her father of "A Church Called Tov" and "Pivot," exploring how biblical goodness transforms Christian communities.

• Tov is the Hebrew word for goodness appearing over 700 times in Scripture
• Tov cultures are characterized by empathy, grace, truth-telling, and putting people first
• Honest assessment requires asking ...

Lorelei Kilmer, a former NorthStar Academy student, shares her journey from being a third culture kid to discovering her calling in campus ministry with the Navigators after college graduation.

• Spent three years at North Star Academy while her family served in Turkey
• Found valuable community and spiritual formation through NorthStar's online education
• Recently graduated college where she was deeply invol...

Tiffany Charles, Director of Admissions at Houston Christian University, shares her expertise and passion for helping students navigate the college admission process through a faith-centered approach. Her journey from homeschooling mom to higher education leader reveals how relationships and discipleship can transform educational experiences for students and families alike.

• Biblical foundation for education based on Prov...

NorthStar Academy celebrates a significant milestone with the formation of its first-ever independent governing board while maintaining its 27-year commitment to Christ-centered education and discipleship. The transition marks a new chapter of growth and development while keeping the school firmly anchored in its founding mission.

• Board Secretary Katie Ahmadzai shares her transition from principal to board member to bala...

NorthStar Academy introduces Entrepreneurship 1, a course focused on building character, resilience, and real-world readiness rather than just teaching business fundamentals. Jen Sullivan brings her passion for student transformation to this innovative program that emphasizes growth mindset, grit, redefining failure, and opportunity seeking.

• Developing essential life skills through entrepreneurship education
• Focusi...

Arkansas's AR Learns program provides homeschool families with funds that can be used for educational expenses, including NorthStar Academy's global online courses. As an approved service provider, NorthStar offers accredited curriculum aligned with state standards while connecting students with peers around the world, developing both academic knowledge and cross-cultural understanding.

• NorthStar Academy is now...

The educational landscape is transforming before our eyes. As Principal Katie Ahmadzai reveals in this illuminating conversation, Christian education has evolved far beyond traditional classrooms into a diverse ecosystem serving each student's unique needs.

What drives parents to consider different educational models? Katie explores how the foundation of Christian education—recognizing each child as created in God&apo...

Leadership coach Audrey Boydston shares how intentional collaboration and clear purpose transform teams, drawing from her 25 years of experience across corporate and educational settings.

• Moving beyond processes to focus on people and helping them do their best work
• Establishing clear purpose, mission, and values for any successful team
• Sharing knowledge rather than hoarding it to empower the entire team
...

Stephen Carter shares how entrepreneurial education is transforming Christian schools by developing critical skills and purpose-driven mindsets in students. What started as a simple coffee cart has grown into a nationwide movement helping students discover their unique calling through entrepreneurial thinking and real-world application.

• Entrepreneurship defined as "taking a risk to create something new for the good ...

Dr. Seana Sundermeyer shares her expertise about Advanced Placement and dual credit courses, explaining the differences between these options and offering guidance on how students can choose the right path for their academic journey.

• AP courses align with College Board standards and prepare students for both the AP exam and university-level work
• Dual credit courses are approved by Colorado Christian University and ...

Stephanie welcomes her 9-year-old son Holton to share his basketball journey and the unexpected life lessons from his recent concussion.

• Holton's basketball passion and why he'd choose to play against Steph Curry
• His dream basketball move involves a behind-the-back crossover into a reverse layup
• The story of Holton's concussion during a church league game
• How sitting out his final game ta...

A heartfelt conversation unfolds as Michaela and Riley share insights from their roles on the NorthStar Academy Student Council. They discuss leadership, community, and the importance of connection within their online academy.

• Michaela and Riley introduce themselves, sharing their backgrounds and hobbies 
• Overview of their student council roles and responsibilities 
• Insights into how collaboration shapes thei...

Cody Johnson's journey from student at NorthStar Academy to aspiring diplomat is a testament of faith, adaptability, and the importance of lifelong learning. Through personal stories of travel and growth, he emphasizes embracing opportunities, learning from diverse cultures, and the necessity of self-awareness in achieving one's calling. 

• Embracing faith while navigating uncertainty 
• The transformative experience o...

Zoe and Rachel, club coordinators at NorthStar Academy, share their experiences of building community within an online educational environment. They emphasize the importance of connection, leadership, and fostering a sense of belonging through diverse clubs, illustrating how these initiatives create meaningful relationships among students. 

• Discussion on their personal experiences at NorthStar 
• Importance of online...