Homeschool Minnesota

Homeschool Minnesota host Dayle Annand talks with John Fort, director of training for Be Broken Ministries and author of *Don't Stress Talking About Sex*, about helping parents discuss sexuality, pornography, boundaries, and exposure with their children. Fort offers age-based guidance and a five-conversation progression, emphasizing calm, repeated talks and a trusting parent-child connection rather than one intimidating “talk.”

To purchase books from John Fort:

https://www.johnwfort.com/

To help a loved one recover from an addiction:

https://www.bebroken.org/

For resources to help you talk with your kids of all ages:

https://www.purelifeacademy.org/

To contact Homeschool Minnesota:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Why parents dread talking about sex
02:11 When to start: body parts, sex, and age-based guidance
05:32 Introducing pornography and making disclosure safe
08:20 Connection, calm responses, and sharing your story
12:54 How much of a parent’s sexual history to share
16:40 Reducing shame and explaining healthy sexuality
18:22 Reproduction, bonding, selflessness, and counterfeit sexuality
22:20 A five-conversation path for parents who feel behind
26:37 Preparing for exposure through peers and everyday life
29:23 Be Broken resources and support for families
32:04 A reassuring first step for worried parents

In this episode, Dandi Daley Mackall shares her journey from growing up in Missouri to becoming a prolific author of over 500 books, including the Winnie the Horse Gentler series and devotionals. She discusses how her faith, love for horses, and experiences behind the Iron Curtain have shaped her writing and her approach to teaching children about God's love and character.

To learn more about Dandi Mackall:

https://www.dandibooks.com/

To purchase Dandi's books:

https://www.tyndale.com/search?author=Dandi%20Daley%20Mackall

To contact Homeschool Minnesota:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dandi Daley Mackall and her work
01:59 Growing up in Missouri and love for horses
03:59 Faith journey and discovering God's grace
06:54 Behind the Iron Curtain: Missionary work in Eastern Europe
09:51 The Winnie the Horse Gentler series and its themes
12:52 The devotional format and emotional connection
16:07 Journaling, emotions, and spiritual growth
18:54 The importance of good theology in children's books
21:04 Balancing theological depth with child-friendly storytelling
23:59 The process of writing for different age groups
26:59 Dandi's personal connection to her characters
29:01 Closing thoughts and upcoming projects

In this episode, Janel Breitenstein discusses how to shift parenting from fear and shame to trust and connection, emphasizing the importance of emotional health and gospel-centered parenting.

Links:

To purchase Emotionally Strong(ish) Parenting:

https://www.tyndale.com/search?keyword=emotionally+strong%28ish%29+parenting

To find out more about Janel Breitenstein:

https://www.janelbreitenstein.com/

To contact Homeschool Minnesota:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Shifts and Guest Background
02:01 Janelle's Personal Journey and Family Life
04:03 Understanding Shame-Based Parenting and Its Impact
07:02 The Difference Between Shame and Guilt in Parenting
10:02 The Power of Gospel and Grace in Parenting
13:04 Modeling Gospel Love in Parenting Moments
16:03 Recognizing Parental Emotional Patterns and Triggers
18:56 Practical Strategies for Emotional Regulation
23:05 Shifts Toward a Resilient, Jesus-Centered Family Culture
27:07 The Role of Trust, Humility, and Grace in Parenting
29:00 Closing Remarks and Resources

In this episode, Kayla Craig shares how breath prayers can be a simple yet powerful tool for busy families to connect with God amidst their hectic lives. Discover practical ways to incorporate prayer into everyday moments and learn about the science and spiritual benefits of mindful breathing through Kayla's book, Our Daily Breath: 365 Prayers and Practices that Whisper Peace in a Shouting World from Tyndale Publishing.

Links:

To find Kayla's book and other resources:

https://www.kaylacraig.com/books

To find Kayla's podcast on prayer:

https://open.spotify.com/show/3ntlqIUVj6PhCUfslzjKb9?si=d737a99a5abe458d

To contact Homeschool Minnesota:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Breath Prayers and Their Benefits
02:05 Kayla Craig's Background and Inspiration for Writing
04:00 What Is a Breath Prayer and How to Practice It
07:01 Breath Prayers in Everyday Life: Car, Laundry, and More
09:03 The Spiritual and Scientific Benefits of Mindful Breathing
11:49 Using Breath Prayers to Manage Anxiety and Worry
14:58 The Format and Content of Kayla's Devotional Book
18:05 Encouragement for Parents to Incorporate Breath Prayers
21:51 Kayla's Podcast and Other Resources
23:57 Closing Remarks and Final Encouragement

In this episode, Abby Joy shares insights into her family's new Advent devotional, Come and Worship: A 25-Day Advent Family Devotional emphasizing the importance of scripture, theology, and intentional family worship during the Christmas season. Discover practical tips for starting family devotions and creating meaningful holiday traditions.

Links:

To purchase or download Come and Worship:

https://familystylelearning.com/

To find Abby's YouTube Channel, Family Style Learning:

https://youtube.com/@familystylelearning?si=keSR6r8YAV4-EpZw

To contact Homeschool Minnesota:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Abby Joy and her family
00:40 The inspiration behind the Advent devotional
01:52 The importance of family worship and theology
04:13 How to start family devotions with young children
06:04 Using scripture, songs, and discussion in devotions
08:00 Extending Advent practices into the new year
10:08 Balancing tradition and flexibility in family worship
12:04 Encouragement for busy families to prioritize faith
13:54 The significance of focusing on Jesus during Christmas
16:10 Abby Joy’s family Christmas traditions
17:59 Resources and tips for engaging children in faith
20:03 The importance of biblical resources and vetting
21:59 Final encouragement and how to access the devotional resources

In this episode, Carrie Hoshaw shares her journey from military family roots to founding Butternut Publishing, focusing on faith-based children's books that nurture discipleship and character development. Discover how her personal experiences and faith inspire her work and learn about her upcoming projects.

Links:

To find Butternut Publishing:

https://butternutpublishing.com/

To contact Homeschool Minnesota:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Carrie Hoshaw and Butternut Publishing
02:08 Carrie’s background growing up as an army brat and her faith journey
04:04 The meaning behind the name Butternut Publishing
04:56 The focus on discipleship and family in their books
07:00 Details about the book 'No Goats' and its faith messages
09:03 The book 'Dumpster Leave It' and its lessons on failure and grace
11:00 Target age groups and upcoming projects like 'Eddie and the Bear'
12:58 The role of illustrations, scripture, and family prayer in books
15:00 The importance of cultural representation and diversity
16:56 The story behind the creation of QR codes for family discussions
19:08 Encouragement to step out in faith and obedience
20:54 Closing thoughts and contact information

Does it take 45 minutes to get your family out the door? Is it a struggle to keep up with all the activities, homeschooling, house work, and still have time for connecting with your family? Do you ever wonder who is this person I'm married to? Is there a better way?

In this episode, Blake and Chandler Allsmith share how they integrate business principles into family life, homeschooling seven kids, and maintaining a thriving marriage. They discuss practical strategies like weekly business meetings, creating family visions, and the importance of date nights to build a strong, connected family.

Links:

To purchase The Family Framework:

https://theallsmiths.com/#book

To receive the free information on family organization from the Allsmiths:

https://theallsmiths.com/#final

To contact Homeschool Minnesota:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Blake and Chandler Allsmith
01:57 Homeschooling Seven Kids and Managing Multiple Businesses
04:13 The Impact of Business Failures on Family and Identity
08:06 The Importance of Family Vision and Core Values
11:51 Moving from Divide and Conquer to Teamwork
15:00 A Day in the Life: Managing Homeschool and Business
22:01 Practical Strategies: Standard Operating Procedures
27:51 The Significance of Weekly Date Nights
35:57 Encouragement for Overwhelmed Parents
39:01 Closing Remarks and Resources

In this episode, Beth Hendrick discusses the importance of family discipleship, practical ways to incorporate biblical truth into daily life, and how to nurture faith and purpose in children amidst cultural pressures.

Links:

To purchase The Way of Life:

https://a.co/d/08FDMtdD

To contact Homeschool Minnesota:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Family Discipleship and Its Importance
02:11 The Role of Devotions and Holy Habits in Daily Life
04:19 Creating Practical and Engaging Family Devotions
07:07 Overcoming Barriers: Busy Schedules and Family Time
10:09 The Power of Consistency and Prioritizing God's Word
13:59 Teaching Children About God's Truth and Life in Abundance
16:29 Addressing Anxiety and Cultivating Peace in Families
19:08 Practical Tools: Breath Prayers and Gratitude Practices
22:14 Encouragement for Parents Who Feel It's Too Late
23:56 Creating a Family Culture of Faith and Discipleship

Christian parents are carrying a huge question: how do you raise spiritually strong kids in a world that keeps pushing against faith? Dr. Charles Fay says the answer is simpler, deeper, and more freeing than most of us think - and it starts with letting go of control.

In this conversation, Dayle Annand talks with Dr. Charles Fay, author of Raising Spiritually Strong Kids from Tyndale Publishing, about what really shapes a child’s faith, character, and resilience. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by curriculum pressure, power struggles, or the fear that you’re not doing enough, this episode will feel like a reset.

Links:

To find Dr. Fay's website: https://www.loveandlogic.com/

To purchase Dr. Fay's book, Raising Spiritually Strong Kids: https://www.tyndale.com/p/raising-spiritually-strong-kids/9798400510861

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ: https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction to Homeschool Minnesota and the question of raising spiritually strong kids

(01:05) Dr. Charles Fay’s background and why character came first in his childhood

(03:16) Why the gospel, not curriculum anxiety, must ground parenting

(04:03) Character traits that matter more than academics alone

(05:01) What employers value most: humility, listening, and putting others first

(06:08) Finding and building on each child’s natural strengths

(06:38) Three parenting priorities: stop fighting, focus on character, build strengths

(10:03) Why the book is designed to be practical and step-by-step

(12:32) The lie that parents can control everything

(13:27) Pride, discouragement, and the strong-willed child

(16:35) Jesus as the protector of children’s faith, not just parents’ effort

(18:35) Fear and pride as warning signs that it’s time to pray

(21:24) Why parents should hope kids experience mistakes while they are young

(23:24) Consequences work best when paired with empathy, not anger

(26:55) “This is so sad” and the power of leading with empathy

(28:49) Building trust through noticing children and meeting needs

(30:40) Why limits make children feel safe

(31:55) Limits as promises, especially around calm voices and technology

(34:22) Choosing character and spiritual growth over adult comfort

(38:27) Strong and loving boundaries working together

(40:54) The gospel as the model for both truth and grace

(41:27) Parenting spiritually strong kids starts with surrender to Jesus

(42:52) Final encouragement to parents to keep goin

In this episode, Dayle Annand interviews Andrea Crum from Genuine Family Ministries about the importance of biblical worldview education for teenagers. They discuss how to equip families to navigate cultural challenges, the significance of biblical literacy, and practical ways to teach kids to think biblically about today's culture.

Links:

To purchase Worldview Prepared:

https://genuinefamilyministries.com/worldview-prepared/

To find out more about Andrea Crum and Genuine Family Ministries:

https://genuinefamilyministries.com/

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Worldview and Discipleship
02:02 Andrea Crum's Background and Genuine Family Ministries
03:09 The Importance of Biblical Worldview for Teens
05:54 Cultural Influences on Faith and Family
09:57 Experiencing God's Goodness in Parenting
11:55 Navigating Difficult Conversations with Teens
16:55 Consequences of a Weak Worldview
20:16 Teaching Critical Thinking in Today's Culture
24:38 The Fear of the Lord and Its Importance
27:07 Recognizing Cultural Influences on Beliefs
28:56 Encouraging Open Dialogue with Teens
30:47 Transformative Goals of the Curriculum
33:52 Overcoming Parental Fears in Conversations

In this episode, Dr. Kathy Koch discusses the eight types of intelligence, how to recognize them in children, and ways to nurture and reawaken these strengths to foster better learning and character development.

Links:

To learn more about Celebrate Kids, Dr. Kathy Koch and to find her books and resources:

https://celebratekids.com/

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Eight Smarts and Their Importance
02:01 Overview of the Eight Types of Intelligence
04:50 Recognizing Smart Strengths in Children
08:54 Barriers to Developing All Smarts in Children
11:22 Reawakening and Developing Underused Smarts
15:23 Using Smart Strengths to Redirect Misbehavior
20:11 Teaching Values and Character Through the Smarts
24:19 The Power of Knowing and Understanding Your Child
26:05 Resources and Support from Celebrate Kids

In this episode, Rob Jackson, a licensed professional counselor, discusses navigating LGBT issues within Christian families, emphasizing grace, conviction, and spiritual formation. He shares insights from his book 'When Grace Meets Conviction' and offers practical advice for parents facing these challenging conversations.

Links:

To purchase the book, When Grace Meets Conviction:

https://www.tyndale.com/p/when-grace-meets-conviction/9781646071531

To get help from Focus on the Family:

https://www.focusonthefamily.com/get-help-now/

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the topic and guest Rob Jackson
01:56 The frequency of calls about LGBT issues from Christian families
04:05 Initial steps for parents when facing difficult news
06:04 The importance of spiritual formation and interior work
08:00 Starting age-appropriate sex education
10:01 Managing emotions and reactions as parents
11:56 Grace meets conviction at family gatherings
13:55 Relating to Christian and non-Christian family members
16:03 Supporting children with same-sex attraction and identity
18:01 The role of the gospel and Christ's love in response
19:47 Building support networks within the church community
22:07 The importance of authentic relational love over performance
23:55 Final thoughts and resources for families
26:04 How to seek help and further resources

In this episode, Elizabeth Santelmann shares her journey with biblical literacy, the importance of spiritual disciplines, and how her Bible study 'Gently Tended' helps women deepen their faith one verse at a time. Discover practical tips for integrating spiritual practices into busy lives and nurturing a closer relationship with God.

Links:

To find out more from Elizabeth and to buy her book, Gently Tended:

https://sunshineinmynest.com/

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Elizabeth Sentleman's Bible Study
01:57 The Power of Making Bible Study Beautiful
04:03 Overcoming Guilt and Defeat in Bible Reading
06:00 The Practice of One Verse at a Time
08:03 Passing Faith Through Small Moments
10:49 Integrating Spiritual Disciplines into Homeschooling
13:01 Practicing the Presence of God Daily
14:46 Flexibility and Grace in Bible Study
17:10 Encouragement for Busy Moms
18:49 The Role of Grace in Spiritual Growth
20:45 Practical Tips for Using the Bible Study

In this episode, Mark Folk shares the story behind his devotional Soul Weathered, designed to help men deepen their faith through simple, reflective practices. We explore how wilderness seasons shape spiritual growth, the importance of daily practice, and living a full life rooted in trust and obedience.

Links:

To purchase Soul Weathered:

https://www.markfolkauthor.com/

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Soul Weathered and its Purpose
02:07 Mark Folk's Personal Journey and Inspiration
04:02 Design and Format of the Devotional
06:57 The Concept of Wilderness in Faith
12:11 Personal Story of Suffering and Trust
19:52 Living in the Wilderness Season
28:08 Obedience Versus Comfort in Faith
33:49 Living a Full Life Rooted in Trust
36:47 Closing Remarks and Practical Applications

In this episode, Audra Haney shares her journey through waiting on God's timing, the inspiration behind her children's book 'Waiting on a Good Good God,' and practical ways parents can teach children to wait well and trust God's plan.

Links:

To purchase Audra's other book, He Is There:

https://www.audrahaney.com/new-book

To purchase Waiting on a Good Good God:

https://www.tyndale.com/p/waiting-on-a-good-good-god/9781496491077

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Audra Haney and her book
02:12 The personal journey of waiting and God's timing
03:53 Challenges faced during family transitions in 2020
07:09 Biblical examples of waiting and faith
10:00 How waiting shapes character and trust
13:02 Teaching children to trust and wait on God
16:53 Using creation to teach God's character
19:49 The importance of patience in parenting and discipleship
22:57 The message and lessons of 'Waiting on a Good Good God'
26:08 Encouragement to wait well and trust God's plan

In this episode, Grace Fox discusses the significance of understanding the names of God to deepen our relationship with Him to become a strong homeschool parent. She shares insights from her Bible study series, personal stories, and practical tips for cultivating friendship with God.

Links:

To purchase The Names of God: Growing Strong:

https://www.gracefox.com/shop/

To find more great books from Tyndale Publishers:

https://www.tyndale.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqx8WvOYxJcg6wxVNzBzyrJtfIrKfOdoh9MYJOBCCjdnBFkGtIt

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the series on Names of God
01:50 The importance of knowing God's names for spiritual growth
04:01 How Jesus fulfills the names of God in scripture
06:04 Personal stories of experiencing God through His names
08:03 Developing a relationship with God through daily habits
10:08 Understanding the name Yahweh Mackay and its significance
12:13 God's discipline as an expression of His love
14:01 The story of Grace Fox's mother and the power of forgiveness
15:58 Trusting God in life's challenges and calling
17:55 The connection between belief and action in faith
20:03 Living out faith in practical ways, like moving onto a boat
22:05 The importance of knowing God's character for trust and obedience
24:02 Responding to God's call with faith and obedience
26:00 The ongoing revelation of God's character and nature
27:58 Encouragement to deepen your relationship with God

In this episode, Crystal Bowman shares her journey of co-authoring children's books with her daughter, the process of writing biblically accurate and engaging children's literature, and the inspiration behind her latest book, C is for Creation. Discover how these stories can be a powerful tool for discipleship and family bonding.

Links:

To find out more about Crystal Bowman:

https://crystalbowman.com/

To order Crystal's books, including pre-order of C is for Creation:

https://www.tyndale.com/p/c-is-for-creation/9798400510441

To contact Homeschool Minnestoa--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Crystal Bowman's Work and New Book
01:56 Writing with Her Daughter and Co-Authoring Journey
03:56 The Process of Creating Children's Literature
08:03 The Importance of Understanding Children's Worldview
12:08 Inspiration Behind C is for Creation
16:04 Biblical Accuracy and Storytelling in Children's Books
20:07 The Creation Story in the Alphabet Book
22:00 Balancing Fun and Faith in Illustrations
24:03 Series Development and Future Books
27:46 Discipleship and the Role of Stories in Faith Formation

In this episode, Christy Faith shares insights on choosing the right homeschool co-op, understanding different educational philosophies, and building a supportive homeschooling community. Perfect for homeschooling parents seeking practical advice and encouragement.

Links:

To find Christy-Faith's Thrive community:

https://christy-faith.com/thrive

To Find Christy-Faith's podcast:

https://christy-faith.com/podcast/

To find out your homeschooling style!

https://christy-faith.com/5-minute-homeschool-style-finder

To purchase Homeschool Rising by Christy-Faith:

https://christy-faith.com/book-homeschool-rising

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Christy Faith and her community
02:02 Christy Faith's homeschooling journey and resources
04:22 What is a homeschool co-op and why consider joining
09:15 Questions to ask before joining a co-op
15:37 Understanding co-op organization and financial structure
22:41 Parent involvement and expectations in co-ops
27:29 Red flags and warning signs in co-op communities
35:31 Encouragement for overwhelmed homeschooling parents

This episode features Dayle Annand talking with Ginger Hubbard about how parents can address children’s speech issues like whining, lying, tattling, and disrespect by focusing on the heart, not just behavior. Ginger shares a practical three-step approach: ask heart-probing questions, show kids what to put off, and teach them what to put on through biblical self-control and obedience.

Links:

To find out more about Ginger Hubbard and to buy her books:

https://www.gingerhubbard.com/

To listen to Parenting with Ginger Hubbard podcast:

https://www.gingerhubbard.com/podcast

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges
01:52 Ginger Hubbard's Background and Mission
03:59 Focus on Heart Issues in Children
05:59 The Three-Step Discipline Plan
09:58 Practical Application for Whining
15:02 Public Discipline and Consistency
19:59 Societal Impact of Parenting Styles
25:03 Biblical Foundations for Discipline
29:50 The Role of Heart Transformation
33:07 Closing Remarks and Resources

This episode features Dr. Brian Ray and Dr. Douglas Pietersma from the National Home Education Research Institute discussing recent research on homeschooling, its outcomes, and societal implications. Discover how homeschooling compares to public and private schooling and why it continues to grow in popularity.

Links:

To find out more about NHERI:

https://nheri.org/

To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:

https://homeschoolminnesota.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Homeschooling Research and Key Findings
01:22 Overview of NEIR and Its Role in Education Research
03:55 Significance of the Recent Homeschooling Studies
05:00 Details of the Nationwide Homeschooling Study
06:28 Historical Context and Growth of Homeschooling in America
08:23 Factors Driving the Growth of Homeschooling
10:20 Systemic Benefits of Homeschooling for Children
12:18 Diverse Demographics and Inclusivity in Homeschooling
14:08 Research Methodology and Bias Control in Studies
19:32 Academic Achievement Results and Interpretation
23:07 Homeschooling Compared to Private and Public Schools
28:13 Early Childhood Education and Homeschooling Outcomes
35:42 Socioeconomic and Racial Patterns in Homeschooling
41:56 Future Trends and Policy Implications
45:43 The Role of Tax Dollars and Government Funding
48:39 Why Families Choose Homeschooling Today
52:25 Changing Motivations for Homeschooling Over Time
55:14 Biblical and Philosophical Foundations of Homeschooling
58:03 Impact of COVID-19 on Homeschooling Trends
01:00:20 Resources and How to Access NEIR Data
01:04:34 Supporting Homeschooling Through Research and Donations