It's Not That Hard to Homeschool
by Lisa Nehring
Homeschooling can be scary and overwhelming to think about, but it doesn't have to be that hard! Lisa has 25+ years of homeschooling experience, including graduating multiple kids. In this podcast, she will reassure you, inspire you, and empower you with the information you need to feel confident and successful as you homeschool your teen. Includes interviews with experts as well as their own practical advice.
Episodes
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My Kid Keeps Asking, "Why do I have to learn this?" | The Snack Table, Ep. 7
"Why do I HAVE to learn this?" If you've heard that at your kitchen table (maybe today!), this episode is for you. It's actually a good question, and the answer lives in the step most curricula skip: Connect. When kids see how a lesson ties to their lives, other subjects, and the bigger story…
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We're so far behind. Can we ever catch up? | The Snack Table, Ep. 6
Behind in your homeschool and lying awake doing the math on how many lessons are left? Before you add Saturday school or double lessons, ask one simple question: behind WHAT? In this snack episode (10 minutes, one question), Lisa and Gina take the pressure off the families who feel behind. They...
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If I don't give tests, how do I know they learned anything? | The Snack Table, Ep. 5
How do you KNOW your homeschooler actually learned it, without giving test after test? Every Fourfold entry ends with a small test that doesn't feel like one. Even better, it leaves real evidence behind that you can hand to an evaluator, a co-op teacher, or a skeptical grandparent. In this…
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Do I really need a separate curriculum for every subject? | The Snack Table Ep. 3
Do you REALLY need a separate curriculum for every subject? For math, phonics, and a foreign language, probably yes. For almost everything else, one simple method can carry the load, and it works with the books you already own. In this episode, Lisa Nehring and Gina Steffy break down which…
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My kid reads the chapter and remembers nothing a week later | Snack Series Ep. 2
Your child reads the chapter, nods along, and a week later remembers almost nothing. Sound familiar? That's not a character flaw. It's how memory works for ALL of us. The fix is the last step of the Fourfold Method: Commit. Say it in your own words, without looking. In this episode, Lisa Nehring...
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I have four kids at four levels. How do I teach them all? | The Snack Table, Ep. 1
Gina and Lisa homeschooled nine kids between them, and neither one kept four plans going for long. Here's how one lesson can work for every child at the table. Subscribe for more content every week! In this episode What layered learning is, and why it gives you your evenings back How each of the...
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Why Your Kids Forget What They Read (and the 4-Step Fix)
Your child can summarize a book perfectly and remember nothing of it a month later. Sound familiar? In this episode, Gina Steffy (author of the Four Fold Method) walks us through four simple moves that turn what your child reads into something they actually KEEP. They work in every subject and at...
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5 Common Topics in Homeschool: Simple Classical Teaching Tools Every Parent Can Use
Does your student freeze up when asked to write, discuss, or explain what they've learned? The 5 Common Topics are simple, powerful classical teaching tools that help students quickly recognize what they already know, make connections across subjects, and get further than they ever thought...
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How to Start Homeschooling Elementary Kids (It's Easier Than You Think!)
How to homeschool elementary kids, from someone who's done it for 30+ years! If you're wondering where to start with homeschooling K–5th grade, this beginner's guide walks you through the essentials. Veteran homeschool mom Lisa shares practical advice, what to expect at each developmental stage,...
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Nick Freitas on Homeschooling, Choice, and the Fight for Freedom
Nick Freitas joins Lisa for a powerful conversation about homeschooling and what it really means to raise kids in freedom. They talk about why parental choice in education matters now more than ever, how homeschooling connects to the bigger picture of personal liberty, and the practical wisdom…
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The God-Shaped Brain — Dr. Jennings on Faith, Neuroscience & How We Learn
Can faith and neuroscience actually rewire your brain for better learning and mental health? Dr. Timothy Jennings says yes — and the science will surprise you. On this episode of It's Not That Hard to Homeschool, Lisa sits down with Dr. Timothy Jennings — board-certified neuroscientist,...
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Trump Capped Student Loans: Will Your Child Still Be Able to Become a Doctor, Lawyer, Nurse—or Pilot?
New federal caps on student loan borrowing could change how families pay for high-cost professional degrees. This episode breaks down what the caps mean for kids pursuing medicine, law, nursing, and aviation—and what funding options can help fill the gap. 📚 Episode Resources True North Academy –...
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What's Wrong With Gen Z? Hard Truths, Real Hope, and What Parents Can Do
Gen Z has been called the loneliest generation — and it's not hard to see why. Between the rise of AI, social media, economic crisis, and the lasting effects of COVID-19, so many young people are facing real isolation and struggling mental health. In this week's podcast, Hannah and Lisa Nehring...
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The AI Revolution is Here: Are Homeschool Families Really Ready?
AI isn't coming—it's already here, reshaping how kids learn, research, and think. But what does that mean for the homeschool family sitting at the kitchen table? In this episode, we cut through the hype and the fear to ask the real question: is AI a threat to independent learning, or the biggest...
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Homeschool Math Anxiety: Why Smart Kids Shut Down
🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Math anxiety is a real thing: from low-level to full adrenaline responses. But it isn't the end! We can truly become confident students of math. Mathematics shouldn't be something to fear; it can actually be an enjoyable experience. Join Lisa as she speaks with...
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The Hidden Cost of AI
🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) What actually happens behind the scenes when you ask an AI a question? In this episode, we're joined by science instructors Sunshyn Hummel and Melissa Grande from True North Homeschool Academy for a fascinating — and eye-opening — conversation about the...
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Work Our Kids Will Love in Uncertain Times: Raising Resilient, Future-Ready Young Adults | Feat. Jonathan Brush (Be Unbound)
🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Join Lisa as she talks with Jonathan Brush, the founder of Be Unbound - an organization that gives a hybrid Christian education to highschoolers and recent grads to help prepare them for success after school. 📚 Episode Resources True North Academy – Live…
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Why America is Exceptional | Feat. Julia Jinks & Angie Ferrell
🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Join Lisa and two homeschool veteran teachers as they discuss America and it's exceptional history. 📚 Episode Resources True North Academy – Live online classes, advising, and resources for homeschool families. Dual Degree Program: For students ready to earn...
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Finding an Academic Pathway
🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Most families aren't actually following an education plan — they're choosing classes one semester at a time and hoping it all works out. Then suddenly it's junior year… and everyone feels behind. In this episode, Lisa Nehring explains what an education pathway...
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Is the Traditional Education System Still Preparing Kids for Real Life?
🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Parents everywhere are asking: Is college still worth the cost? Does prestige equal competence? Are degrees translating into real skills? What happens if 25% of colleges close in the next decade? In this episode, we break down the educational shift happening...
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The Confidence Crisis
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) As homeschool parents, we push our kids to be smart and successful, but is that a recipe to help them build confidence? Lisa breaks down this concept and explains how to help kids feel confident to take hold of their future. 📚…
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The Dual Degree Advantage
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Dual degrees are one of the smartest ways to give your child a major head start on college — and we have an incredible opportunity for you! Check out the dual degree link in the description. Join Lisa as she breaks down everything you...
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The Character Gap
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) When homeschooling, it's easy as parents to pour all our energy into academics—but what about building a strong character? Join Lisa as she explores why nurturing a solid moral compass in our children is just as vital as math and...
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Cooking with Kids | Feat. Katie Kimball
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) As homeschooling parents, we all want to nourish our families with real, healthy food and raise kids who can cook. But let's be honest—getting great meals on the table (while also teaching our children kitchen skills) can feel...
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Building A Future-Ready Plan for Your Homeschool
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) How do you choose the next right step for your homeschool? Lisa walks through 3 simple things you can do now to build your future-ready homeschooling plan! 📚 Episode Resources True North Academy – Live online classes, advising, and...
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Homeschooling Has Gone Mainstream
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Homeschooling is booming right now! Since 2020, homeschooling has grown rapidly, but homeschool parents are feeling burnt out and struggling to balance everything. Lisa discusses how to energize and revitalize your focus. 📚 Episode...
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25% of Colleges Could Close - And What Smart Families Are Doing Instead
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Colleges aren't what they used to be—skyrocketing costs, shifting job markets, AI reshaping everything, and much more. Parents everywhere are asking the tough question: Is a traditional four-year degree still worth it? Join veteran...
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All The Options
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) As parents, we want our kids to have all the options available for their future. But is that what they need? In this episode, Lisa shows that sometimes, providing all the options upfront can hurt more than help...and how to advise…
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10 Things We Wish We Did Differently | Feat. Hannah Nehring
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Join Lisa and her daughter, Hannah, as they reflect back on homeschooling and evaluate what they wish they HAD done. 📚 Episode Resources True North Academy – Live online classes, advising, and resources for homeschool families. Dual...
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Life Skills and Leadership Skills | Feat. Kerry Beck
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Life Skills and Leadership Summit founder Kerry Beck joins Lisa as they delve into how to prepare students for the future and offer advice for building a strong foundation in students' lives. 📚 Episode Resources True North Academy –...
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The Case for Trades
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Lisa discusses why the trades are rising in importance and tips for starting students on the pathway to learning trade skills. 📚 Episode Resources True North Academy – Live online classes, advising, and resources for homeschool...
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Trends in Education
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) So, what is trending in education? So many things! Students learning AI, dual enrollment, and other skills that you and your students need to know. Join Lisa as she explains what is changing in education nowadays and how you can…
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7 Things Moms Should Know
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Calling all retiring homeschool moms! Taking the steps to enter the workforce can be intimidating. But don't worry, you have what it takes! Join Lisa as she walks through the 7 things all homeschool moms should know to feel better...
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6 Hard Truths in Education
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) In this episode, veteran homeschooler and master of education, Lisa Nehring, explores the hard truths about education you may not know. Let's dive into teaching your students skills in AI, college closings nationwide, and more. 📚...
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College for All and Where it Came From
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Why is everyone attending college nowadays? A big question that Lisa explores in this week's episode. Decades ago, graduating high school and going straight to work wasn't uncommon, and only part of the student base headed off to…
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Eat Together: How Meal Time Builds Connection
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) Did you know that eating together could help your kids' development? In this episode, Lisa dishes up the real-deal info on how eating as a family isn't just about fueling our bodies—it's the ultimate glue for building unbreakable...
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School in the Cloud: What Sugata Mitra Got Right
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) What if children could learn almost anything—just by being curious? In the last episode, we discussed how the 19th-century Prussian education model—designed to produce punctual, obedient workers and loyal soldiers—shifted the...
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From Factory Floor to The Cloud
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) The public school system was designed in the 19th century to churn out workers for an industrial empire that vanished decades ago. Today, those same teaching tactics are keeping kids stuck in a world that no longer exists. In this...
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The Gratitude Gap
🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) In this episode of It's Not That Hard to Homeschool, veteran homeschool educator Lisa Nehring (of True North Academy) discusses living in a world overflowing with options—and for today's teens, that can be paralyzing. What should I study? Should I go to college...
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Build Your Kid's Brand
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) In this episode of It's Not That Hard to Homeschool, veteran homeschool educator Lisa Nehring (of True North Academy) discusses how to develop your student's stand-out factor using the 5 Pillars of Readiness. 📚 Mentioned in This...
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The ABC's Of Curriculum
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) In this episode of It's Not That Hard to Homeschool, veteran homeschool educator Lisa Nehring (of True North Academy) reviews tips and tricks of picking the best curriculum! Every new homeschooler—and even those who've been at it a...
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How to Create Homeschool High School Credits & Transcripts (Step-by-Step Guide)
Episode Sponsors: CTC Math and Great Homeschool Conventions 🎧 Episode Description (Show Notes) In this episode of It's Not That Hard to Homeschool, veteran homeschool educator Lisa Nehring (of True North Academy) breaks down one of the most confusing parts of homeschooling high school: credits…
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Dual Degree Programs for Homeschoolers — College Done, Not Just College Ready
Show: Not That Hard to Homeschool Host: Lisa Nehring Sponsor: CTC Math Guest: Lisa Nehring from True North Academy 🎧 Episode Summary What if your high schooler could graduate with both a high school diploma and a bachelor's degree—without student debt? In this episode, Lisa shares how True North...
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When You Don't Know What's Next: Preparing Your High Schooler for the Next Season
Episode Title: When You Don't Know What's Next: Preparing Your High Schooler for the Next Season Host: Lisa Nehring Brought to you by: CTC Math — the stress-free, self-paced homeschool math program for every learner. Episode Summary What happens when your high schooler doesn't know what's…
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Homeschool Curious to Community Builder: Morgan Bergstrom on Launching BaseCampEd
What if finding a few like-minded families near you were as easy as dropping a pin on a map? In this episode, Lisa chats with Morgan Bergstrom—former corporate recruiter, mom of three (soon four!), and creator of BaseCampEd, a free app that helps homeschool and alt-ed families connect locally....
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Sorting Through Homeschool Alternatives: Microschools, Hybrids, Online Academies & More
Episode Summary: Is traditional school no longer the right fit for your family? In this episode of It's Not That Hard to Homeschool, Lisa Nehring breaks down the ever-expanding list of educational alternatives—homeschooling, microschools, university-model schools, co-ops, online academies, dual...
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Unlocking Literacy Through Play: Night Zookeeper's Creative Writing World (Interview with Joshua Davidson)
Homeschool language arts… but make it magical. In this episode, Lisa chats with Joshua Davidson, creator of Night Zookeeper—a story-driven, gamified ELA program where kids invent creatures, build worlds, and level up writing, spelling, grammar, vocabulary, and more. With real tutors, smart...
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The Drumbeat of Disruption: Why Homeschooling Matters More Than Ever
The Drumbeat of Disruption: Why Homeschooling Matters More Than Ever Sponsored by CTCMath.com The world feels heavy right now. The headlines are filled with tragedy, confusion, and cultural chaos. From heartbreaking school shootings to online radicalization, parents are left wondering: How do I...
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Career Exploration Field Day with Julia Jinks
Equip your teen for the future! Julia Jinks shares how career exploration builds clarity, confidence, and real-world skills in high school. Sponsored by CTCMath.com How do you help your teen discover a career path that actually fits who they are—and saves them years of wasted time and money? In...
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The Trades Are Calling: Why College Isn't the Only Smart Option Anymore
Episode Summary College is a path—but it's no longer the only path to a thriving future. In this episode, host Lisa Nehring breaks down why skilled trades (think welding, plumbing, HVAC, coding, and more) are exploding in demand and offer solid pay, zero college debt, and AI-proof job security....
About this show
Homeschooling can be scary and overwhelming to think about, but it doesn't have to be that hard! Lisa has 25+ years of homeschooling experience, including graduating multiple kids. In this podcast, she will reassure you, inspire you, and empower you with the information you need to feel confident and successful as you homeschool your teen. Includes interviews with experts as well as their own practical advice.
Hosted by
Lisa Nehring