PODCAST · kids
The Sequoia Breeze
by Rebecca LaSavio
A podcast for homeschool families brought to you by Sequoia Grove Charter Alliance. Encouragement, tips & tricks, interviews with HSTs and curriculum help.
Episodes
-
Give Them Something to Think About
What if memorization isn’t just about remembering facts, but building a foundation for deeper thinking? In this episode, Rebecca talks with Julie Walker from IEW about the surprising connection between memorization and thinking. We’ll talk about why memorizing poetry, great writing, and other...
-
Digging Into Ag Science
There are SO many ways to customize learning, and this program is a great example! In this episode, we’re welcoming Brieana DeMelo, an Agriculture Sciences teacher at our schools, to hear about all the exciting things happening in Ag Science. In just a short time, Brieana has created a vibrant,...
-
Leadership with Heart
Season 9 kicks off with a conversation that's just as relevant today as when it first aired. We're revisiting one of our favorite episodes as Rebecca sits down with Executive Director Jenell Sherman to talk about the heart, mission, and vision behind Sequoia Grove Charter Alliance. Whether you're...
-
Learning Never Ends
Spoiler: none of us can teach our children everything they’ll need to know before they leave home. So what can we give them? A love of learning, the confidence to try new things, and the curiosity to keep growing long after graduation. In this special episode, Rebecca explore the idea of…
more -
Where Does All the Time Go?
Most of us think in terms of 24 hours in a day, but what if we started thinking in terms of 168 hours in a week? Suddenly, time feels a little different. So where does all that time go? In this episode, we explore how to approach our days with more intention and less overwhelm, drawing on…
more -
Animals in Our Homeschool
Does your family have animals? Are you considering it? Whether you have cuddly pets, reptilian friends, or animals that serve a purpose in your home, there is much for students to learn and gain from their presence. In this special episode, we take you inside several families’ experiences with...
-
Unleash Your Genius!
State testing season is here. For many homeschool families, that can bring questions—or even a little stress. In this episode of the Sequoia Breeze Podcast, we take a clear and honest look at CAASPP. You’ll hear from school leaders about why testing matters and how our schools are cheering your...
-
Conquering the CAASPP with Mr. D!
Did you know there’s real support available when state testing feels overwhelming? This month on The Sequoia Breeze, Rebecca LaSavio is joined by Denis DiNoia, creator of Mr. D Math and a well-known advocate for homeschooling and charter education. Together, they talk about Conquer the CAASPP, a...
-
Consistency: The Secret to Homeschool Success
What does real consistency look like in a homeschool—beyond perfect plans and good intentions? In this episode, I sit down with longtime homeschooler and community leader Dawn Garrett to talk about the kind of steady, everyday effort that truly shapes learning and family life. We talk about why...
-
The Wisdom of Generations
In this special episode that’s just in time for the holiday season, Rebecca sits down with author Isabel Tom to explore the heart behind her book, The Value of Wrinkles. Drawing from her unique upbringing living with grandparents and her career serving older adults, Isabel challenges the cultural...
-
Confidence & Flexibility: Making the Most of Course Outlines in High School
High school brings exciting opportunities for deeper learning and personal growth. With the right tools, homeschooling through this stage can be both manageable and meaningful. In this episode, join Rebecca as she sits down with high school content specialist Robin Caminiti to talk about how…
more -
Finding the Essentials in Homeschooling
What does it look like to homeschool with more peace and less overwhelm? In this episode, Rebecca sits down with friend and fellow Family Liaison, Beka Heath, a homeschool mom of seven, to talk about how the book Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less has shaped the way they think about...
-
Homeschooling with Purpose
Homeschooling isn’t about doing all the things — it’s about doing the right things. With so many curriculum options and extracurricular opportunities available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this episode, HST Jaime Happ helps us pause and reflect on the “why” behind our decisions — so we can...
-
Continuing the Conversation: An AB 84 Update
Cynthia Rachel from A.P.P.L.E is back! AB 84 has passed the Assembly and is now headed to the State Senate. If signed into law, this bill could significantly impact our flex-based charter school model and the families we serve. Cynthia breaks down where the bill stands, clearly explains the…
more -
Gathering Homeschoolers Together in Northern California
In this episode, your host, Rebecca LaSavio, sits down with Stephanie Slade, the visionary founder behind the Northern California Homeschool Convention. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just getting started, this conversation will open your eyes to the incredible value of homeschool...
-
AB 84 and Your Family - What You Need to Know
AB 84 is a bill that, if passed, could drastically impact our flex-based charter school model and affect all of our families. In this episode, Rebecca interviews Cynthia Rachel, who offers a knowledgeable and clear explanation of what this bill means for us and how we can take action to make our...
-
That's a Wrap!
Rebecca concludes season 6 with a wrap up of 11 great episodes and asks you to join her in remembering the highlights! Show Notes: Clarksville Voice Message Feather River Voice Message Lake View Voice Message
-
Our Littlest Homeschoolers, part 2
Come back for more! In Part 2 of this conversation, Rebecca and her sisters-in-law continue discussing how to give our TK and Kindergarten students a healthy start to school. Dive into the conversation about the importance of play and music. This episode has lots of encouragement for parents and...
-
Our Littlest Homeschoolers, part 1
In this week's episode, Rebecca sits down with Eliza Reed and Elisabeth Harmon to discuss homeschooling ideas for our littlest, and most excited learners—TK and Kindergarten students! Eliza, a mother of four and the owner of a Montessori-style preschool, and Elisabeth, a homeschooling mom of…
more -
Smart Homeschooling with AI
Whether we like it or not, AI is here to stay. What are the implications of artificial intelligence for our students? Can AI be a helpful tool in homeschool education? How do we teach our kids to use it wisely when we may not fully understand it ourselves? In this week's episode of The Sequoia...
-
Introducing Sequoia Studio
In this episode, Rebecca welcomes Jenna Clifton, Lead Art Teacher, and Carrie Liebrich, Music Teacher to discuss the launch of Sequoia Studio, a brand new program dedicated to enhancing visual and performing arts experiences for TK-8th grade students enrolled in our schools. With the recent…
more -
Curious Questions with Erika Barrish
Educational best practices increasingly emphasize using questions that ignite curiosity and engage students deeply in the learning process. This inquiry approach goes beyond simply asking what a student wants to learn; it's about sparking genuine interest. When applied effectively, it “hooks”...
-
Teens Talk Homeschool
Rebecca sits down with a group of homeschooled teens to dive into what life is really like outside the walls of a traditional school. For many, the thought of homeschooling through high school can feel daunting—can it be done well? Will students miss out on important experiences? In this episode,...
-
The Art of Feelings, with Cori Doerrfeld
This week Rebecca welcomes Cori Doerrfeld, author of the book, The Rabbit Listened, a heartfelt story that was born out of Cori’s deep empathy and desire to comfort friends in difficult times. This book, along with many others she has written and illustrated, has become a gift to readers and a...
-
Understanding the Impact of Trauma
Trauma can affect us in ways we don’t always anticipate, and children are especially vulnerable to its impact. It can alter brain function and emotional regulation, changing how young people learn and complete tasks. In this powerful episode, Sequoia Grove’s Reece Perez opens up about her…
more -
Breaking Up with Your Phone
Is your phone running your life? Do you find yourself getting sucked into it or other devices losing track of time that would be better spent doing other things? Does your (or your student’s!) phone use impact your school day? Our very own Jenny Johnston joins Rebecca to talk about the principles...
-
Growing Minds: Gardening with Kids
With a desire for healthy, flavorful food and a deeper connection to nature, many people are returning to their own gardens. This week, Rebecca speaks with Kaitlin Mitchell, creator of Rutabaga Gardening, about the benefits of getting children involved in gardening. Kaitlin says no one has a…
more -
The BookShark Way: Inspiring Learning Through Stories
The BookShark Way: Inspiring Learning Through Stories Have you heard the phrase, “Learning from living books?” Are you curious to know what it means and whether or not it’s effective? This week, Rebecca sits down with Janna Koch from BookShark, a popular, literature-based curriculum publisher, to...
-
Embracing ADHD
Having ADHD presents many challenges including difficulty paying attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Whether you or one of your students has ADHD, you’re not alone. Heidi Motto, Clarksville HST and mom of two, joins Rebecca to bring insight and experience to this subject. Listen in as she...
-
Innovation at Home
This week Rebecca welcomes Josh Manley from CADclass to explore the exciting world of learning to design and print on a 3D printer. Discover how these skills offer homeschoolers creative opportunities and valuable lessons in problem-solving with real-world applications. Check out this episode for...
-
Share Your Story--with Stacy MacDonald
Homeschooling mom and Feather River Board member Stacy MacDonald sits down with Rebecca to graciously share her family’s inspiring homeschool story. As a neuro-divergent family, Stacy and her children have navigated many challenges. Their story is one of resilience, creativity, and the ability to...
-
Find Help with Student Support and Special Education
Join Rebecca as she welcomes Megan Nason, Director of Student Support and Special Education, to shed light on the many pathways available at Sequoia Grove to help support ALL learners. Megan will share about the various program options and address common concerns including whether or not a…
more -
Welcome to Sequoia Grove
In this episode, Sara Greco, Lead Family Liaison and homeschooling veteran, joins Rebecca to talk about homeschooling with our schools. From understanding our unique identity to unraveling the inner workings of our systems, together they explore the options we offer that make us stand out! Be…
more -
A Beginner's Guide to Homeschooling
Choosing to homeschool is a big decision. It's natural to feel overwhelmed and have a TON questions. Where do you start? What options are out there? Is homeschooling right for me and my kids? In this episode, Rebecca guides you through the essential steps to kick-start your homeschooling…
more -
"I Can" - Clearing Away the Confusion
A powerhouse trio of highly experienced teachers and homeschoolers joins Rebecca today to discuss the “I Can” statements. How do these state standards work into our homeschools? What does the charter school need from us? Homeschool families and teachers alike will find this episode to be helpful...
-
Supporting Gifted Learners
This week, Rebecca welcomes Dr. Alex Ryan, one of our wonderful intervention teachers, to discuss Supporting Your Gifted Learner. Together, they explore the answers to questions including, Is your child gifted? If so, what does that mean for your homeschool? Does a child have to be gifted in all...
-
Helping Kids Manage Themselves
HR Mom Melissa Griffin is back! This time, we tackle the nitty-gritty of helping your kids learn to manage themselves and their everyday responsibilities. Don't miss another great episode loaded with great ideas. Lucy in the Chocolate Factory HRMom on Facebook
-
Ready for Real Life, with HRMom
Every parent wonders, "Have I prepared my kids to survive in the real world? Did I teach them enough?" Melissa Griffin, also known as HRMom, teaches us how to prepare our kids to enter real life with real problem-solving skills--and less anxiety. Find the HRMom community on Facebook.
-
Equipping Families for the Unthinkable
In this episode, we confront the unsettling reality we face when we hear about yet another shooting incident on the news. The initial shock prompts us to turn off the radio and protect our children from the distressing details. However, beneath the relief that our kids are safe from a school...
-
Raising Siblings for Life
The blessing and the curse of homeschooling: Siblings! The challenges and opportunities that sibling relationships bring require a lot of energy and creativity from parents. Kendra Fletcher, mother and experienced homeschooler of 8 shares the lessons she learned and the ways she helped foster and...
-
1000 Hours Outside, with Ginny Yurich
More than 7 hours a day...that's how much time an average American kid spends in front of a screen. What would happen if they spent even HALF that time outdoors, exploring and playing? Ginny Yurich shares with us the immense benefits of setting a goal of 1000 hours outside--maybe even until the...
-
A Heart for High School
Is homeschooling for high school a good idea? Will your student miss out? Are you up for the challenge? Linda Qian, director of high school for Sequoia Grove, shares her story with us and lays our fears to rest--high school is a great time to homeschool!
-
Plan Your Year with Pam Barnhill
Pam Barnhill joins in to talk about how to get your year under control! No more giving up before you've begun. Her book Plan Your Year outlines how to think through what you do and how to do it. Be inspired to keep going each day with some simple preparation. Show Notes: PamBarnhill.com...
-
Tour the Lending Library!
Unsure what the Lending Library has to offer? Have you given up trying to get logged in and reserve books? Join me as I interview the Head of Library Services, Chris Hermann. We take an audio tour of the immense store of resources available to you and your family. Don't miss this informative...
-
Season 4 Trailer
Season 4 drops August 16, 2023
-
Showcasing our Students
Amazing projects, clever creativity, big ideas...great things are happening with our Sequoia Grove students! Hear what it was like inside a Student Showcase in May 2023--gather inspiration and join us next year!
-
Rebecca's Homeschool Journey
Four kids and two continents....this is Rebecca's homeschool journey. She shares the good and the regrets. Listen in for ideas, lessons learned, and encouragment in your own homeschool. NOTES: BookShark Dot to Dot in the Sky Africa is Not a Country Quote attributed to Jen Wilkin, “Women of the...
-
Building Emotionally Aware Kids--and Parents!
Do your kids have the words to describe how they're feeling? Emotional well-being is crucial for a good learning environment. In this episode, Mary Stein introduces us to the world of Social Emotional Learning (SEL). Listen in for some great resources for all students, TK-12th grade, and even...
-
Digital Literacy and Internet Safety
Equipping our kids to be safe in the digital world, while still helping them to learn the necessary skills is a tricky job! Trisha Brandow joins me to talk about how to navigate this important topic. Common Sense Media Education How to Break Up with Your Phone The Safetech Family Podcast SOS FBI...
-
Getting the Most out of your Sequoia Grove Experience
It can be confusing to keep track of all that's going on with Sequoia Grove. Are you feeling confused by the opportunities available? Join Rebecca and Sara, two of our Family Liaisons, as they chat and share suggestions to help you "Get the Most Out of Your Sequoia Grove Experience." Listen in as...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Sequoia Breeze have?
The Sequoia Breeze currently has 78 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Sequoia Breeze about?
A podcast for homeschool families brought to you by Sequoia Grove Charter Alliance. Encouragement, tips & tricks, interviews with HSTs and curriculum help.
How often does The Sequoia Breeze release new episodes?
The Sequoia Breeze has 78 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Sequoia Breeze?
You can listen to The Sequoia Breeze on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Sequoia Breeze?
The Sequoia Breeze is created and hosted by Rebecca LaSavio.
URL copied to clipboard!