Zan Tyler Podcast: Thriving in Your Homeschool

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 tailored learning and meaningful service...

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 and encouragement to build a lasting...

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 filled with encouragement and practical...

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 biblical education produced the fr...

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, challenging the notion that children are a ...

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-generation homeschooling mom from North Dak...

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 isn't an emotion—it's a divine gift f...

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 seasons, offering hope and understandin...

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 to the states would benefit all chil...

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 her own experience of being threatene...

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 personal connections and supporting bilin...

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 perseverance, prayer, and vision for creati...

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 encouragement for parents to focus on what w...

How do you transform your teen's unique high school experiences into a powerful story? Transcripts serve as academic "storybooks" that showcase each student's distinctive path. Zan and LaNissir James discuss documenting achievements, creating meaningful electives, and preparing students for diverse futures. Their conversation reveals how homeschooling through high school empowers teens to pursue their passions while developing esse...

How do personality differences shape your homeschool days? Zan and LaNissir James explore the fascinating dynamics of teaching children with different learning styles and temperaments. Drawing from her experience homeschooling seven unique children, LaNissir shares how understanding personality types transformed her approach to education, while Zan reflects on adapting her teaching methods for each of her children. Together, they d...

Are you trying to find peace in your homeschool journey while meeting your child's unique needs? Zan and Peggy Ployhar discuss how homeschool parents naturally provide the individualized education their children need, often without realizing it. Through stories of late readers, testing challenges, and learning breakthroughs, they share how focusing on long-term goals rather than immediate progress brings freedom to both parent and ...

What if your greatest parenting challenge became your life's calling? When Peggy Ployhar's five-year-old son struggled in traditional school, she reluctantly turned to homeschooling despite her initial resistance. Zan and Peggy share their parallel journeys of releasing parental guilt and learning to embrace their children's unique learning styles. Together they discuss how God transformed Peggy from a corporate engineer into a pas...

What makes the difference between just another year and one filled with purpose? Zan and Joe Tyler invite you into an encouraging New Year's Day discussion about moving beyond typical resolutions to discover God's calling for your family. Through stories of evening bonfires, car-ride conversations, and precious moments around the table, the Tylers share how seeking God together as a family transforms ordinary moments into lasting m...

Have you ever struggled with feeling insignificant in your role as a homeschool parent? Join Zan and Joe Tyler for a genuine Christmas conversation about finding dignity and purpose in unexpected places. Through personal stories of homeschool advocacy and cherished family traditions, the Tylers share how God works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. From widow baskets to cookie camps with grandkids, their ex...