Best Homeschool Special Needs Podcasts (2025)

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Ep 68 - 4 Homeschool MISTAKES You're Probably Making That STEAL Your Joy 31:33

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1d ago31:33

31:33

You started homeschooling for the freedom, joy, and connection it promised. But somewhere along the way, nagging kids, constant overwhelm, and endless worries started stealing that joy. In this episode, Christy-Faith tackles the four biggest homeschool joy stealers—and equips you with practical strategies to reclaim your peace, confidence, and love…

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Homeschooling by Faith Not by Comfort 58:26

3d ago58:26

58:26

In this inspiring episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Leilani Melendez sits down with Dani Ward, a homeschooling mom of two and creator of a practical family Bible study on the fruit of the Spirit. Dani shares how a single quote—“Comfort should not be our core value”—transformed her perspective on motherhood, homeschooling, and fai…

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Ep. 67 - How to Teach Critical Thinking in Your Homeschool 1:00:45

8d ago1:00:45

1:00:45

We live in a world full of opinions—but fewer people than ever know how to think. In this episode, Christy-Faith sits down with renowned professor, critical thinking expert, and homeschool dad Dr. Renton Rathbun. They’ll unpack what critical thinking really is, why it’s in such short supply, and how we as homeschool parents can train our kids to pu…

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Choosing the Best Homeschool Co-op for Your Child’s Needs 59:25

10d ago59:25

59:25

In this insightful episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, co-host Dawn Jackson chats with Pam Kafer, host of the Lead Your Homeschool Co-op podcast and a seasoned co-op leader with a heart for inclusion. In "Choosing the Best Homeschool Co-op for Your Child’s Needs," Pam shares practical guidance for families navigating the often-overwhelm…

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Episode 4: Living Life- Caregiving Update 14:02

14d ago14:02

14:02

Charlotte gives a glimpse into the past month of what life has looked like as a caregiver. She speaks to developing a new routine after the loss of her mother this past January. Charlotte reminds us that we have the power to choose to stay bogged down by our circumstances or choose to step out of them and enjoy this beautiful world.…

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Ep. 66 - The Biggest Myths About Homeschool Socialization 20:54

15d ago20:54

20:54

You’ve heard it before—maybe at a family dinner, maybe from a well-meaning stranger: But how will your kids socialize? It’s the most common (and most exhausting) question homeschoolers face. In this episode, Christy-Faith tackles the socialization myth head-on. From the roots of this cultural fear to what the research actually says, you'll get equi…

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Homeschooling Autism with Hope and Healing 1:02:13

17d ago1:02:13

1:02:13

In this inspiring episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with Heather Anderson, founder of The Autism Oasis and Nonverbal Autism Homeschool, for a powerful discussion on Homeschooling Autism with Hope and Healing. As a former journalist and mother to a nonspeaking son with autism, Heather shares how her journey…

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Ep. 65 - Homeschooling with Anxiety or Depression: Is It Still Possible? 37:59

22d ago37:59

37:59

Can you really homeschool if you’re struggling with anxiety or depression? Or is that a sign you should walk away from it all? In this deeply honest and encouraging episode, Christy-Faith sits down with licensed therapist and homeschool mom Stephanie Combs to tackle this difficult—but important—question. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re i…

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Finding Hope in the Hard Moments of Homeschooling and Parenting 58:41

24d ago58:41

58:41

In this heartfelt episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, co-host Dawn Jackson welcomes award-winning writer and podcaster Clarissa Moll for a powerful discussion titled "Finding Hope in the Hard Moments of Homeschooling and Parenting." Clarissa, a former homeschool mom and widow of four years before remarrying into a blended family of nine…

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S4E75: Affording the Care Your Child Needs 39:47

27d ago39:47

39:47

One of the biggest problems plaguing parents of children with some sort of special need is: affording the care your child needs. There are seemingly endless supports your child needs when development takes a detour for whatever reason. And affording medical equipment, special foods, therapies, adaptive equipment, sensory inputs, tailored social opp…

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Ep. 64 - Overwhelmed By Homeschooling? How To Make It Manageable 20:38

29d ago20:38

20:38

Are you overwhelmed by overflowing bookshelves, a cluttered calendar, and the pressure to “do it all” in your homeschool? You're not alone—when you're balancing so much, it doesn’t take much to feel stretched thin. In this episode, Christy-Faith opens up about shiny object syndrome, curriculum overload, and the quiet guilt that creeps in when homes…

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Swift Solutions for Your Child’s Reading Success 1:10:11

1M ago1:10:11

1:10:11

Is your child struggling to read, despite your best efforts? You’re not alone! This week, host Peggy Ployhar welcomes Dr. Joe Lockavitch, a renowned reading expert and the creator of Failure Free Reading, to share breakthrough strategies for helping nonreaders and struggling readers succeed. With over 30 years of experience training teachers, paren…

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S4E74: Just Breathe 31:34

1M ago31:34

31:34

In today's episode, I am joined by Raj Khedun, as we talk about how important it is to just breathe! All of us have lived through some tough times over the last 5 years. Even if everything else went perfectly in your life, you still lived through a worldwide pandemic. Stressors can cause not only anxiety but also Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or …

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Ep. 63 - How to Raise Strong Readers with Spencer Russell 42:53

1M ago42:53

42:53

Can toddlers really learn to read? And can homeschool moms truly teach them—even without formal training? Absolutely. In this episode, Christy-Faith sits down with Spencer Russell, award-winning educator and founder of Toddlers Can Read, to talk about how early literacy is simpler (and more doable) than most parents realize. We’ll break down the sc…

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Homeschooling Hacks for Neurodivergent Families 53:41

1M ago53:41

53:41

Homeschooling children with neurodivergent needs can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, it can also be incredibly rewarding. In today’s episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Leilani Melendez is joined by Felicia Johnson, a seasoned homeschooling mom of eight, to discuss “Homeschooling Hacks for Neurodivergent Families.…

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Ep. 62 - Screens in the Homeschool: What’s Too Much? 22:55

1M ago22:55

22:55

Feeling like screens are slowly taking over your homeschool? You're not the only one. In this episode, Christy-Faith gets real about parenting and homeschooling in a world where digital distractions are everywhere. From toddler YouTube loops to teens in full dopamine withdrawal, she lays out how screens are reshaping attention, behavior, and connec…

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Managing Parent Overload & Modeling Calm at Home 58:21

1M ago58:21

58:21

Homeschooling is a beautiful journey, but let’s be honest—it can also be exhausting, overwhelming, and downright overstimulating! If you find yourself losing patience, feeling constantly drained, or struggling to stay calm amid the chaos, you’re not alone. In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar welcomes Whitney W…

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Ep. 61 - Are Schools Killing a Love of Learning? 24:48

2M ago24:48

24:48

Is your homeschool starting to feel a lot like the system you wanted to leave behind? You’re not alone—and there’s a reason for that. In this episode, Christy-Faith pulls back the curtain on how the traditional school model—from public to private to charter—was never built to spark a love of learning. We’ll talk about why school choice often means …

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Teaching a Nonverbal Child Without Reading or Writing 1:00:30

2M ago1:00:30

1:00:30

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar is joined by Stephanie Buckwalter, a fellow co-host, experienced homeschooling mom, and mentor with over 20 years of expertise in helping families navigate unique learning challenges. Stephanie has developed innovative approaches, including the ELARP™ Method and Spell As U G…

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S4E73: Embracing the Cards Life Has Dealt You 55:31

2M ago55:31

55:31

In today's episode, I am joined by Dr. Gwendolynn Diaz, as we talk about the importance of embracing the set of cards life deals you. Everyone comes into this life with a set of cards. Sometimes we look at that set of cards and assume that we have been dealt a bad hand. But, the set of cards you come into the world with is not something to turn awa…

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Episode 3: Dreaming of Hawaii 24:40

2M ago24:40

24:40

Join Charlotte as she shares about a dream selfcare trip to Hawaii. She shares about selfcare and what it takes as a caregiver to be able to go on a trip like this. Charlotte also shares about the importance of not just selfcare but also dreaming big. As Charlotte shares about the importance of having dreams she also shares about the importance of …

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Ep. 60 - Homeschooling Without a Co-Op: 8 Ways to Find Connection 22:20

2M ago22:20

22:20

Do You Really Need a Homeschool Co-Op? Let’s Talk About It. Homeschooling without a co-op? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to join a co-op just to prove your homeschool is “socialized,” this episode is for you. In this episode, Christy-Faith unpacks the truth about co-ops, socialization, and what rea…

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A Home-Schooling Guide for Parents with ADHD 56:33

2M ago56:33

56:33

Parenting and homeschooling come with unique challenges—especially when you’re a parent with ADHD. In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, homeschooling moms with ADHD, offer wisdom, strength, and understanding for families navigating a similar path. Join us as we open up about the lessons they’ve learned over the years in life, hom…

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Episode 2: Its Okay to be Okay 15:11

2M ago15:11

15:11

Charlotte discusses how society can often dictate how we should respond to and or feel about a given situation. She shares of experience that there have been times when she has needed to sit in her feelings and other times when she has needed to give herself permission to be at peace and enjoy life.

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S4E72: The Chemistry of Your Life 1:11:03

2M ago1:11:03

1:11:03

In today's episode, I am joined by Dr. Erin Attaway, and we are talking all about the chemistry of your life: your blood! Dr. Erin Attaway is a doctor of Chinese medicine and acupuncture, and so she has a different way of looking at our traditional blood test results! I, personally, find her approach to be anxiety reducing and empowering! Join us t…

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Episode 1: Getting Started 17:10

2M ago17:10

17:10

In this first episode Charlotte shares the meaning behind the podcast. She opens up about her learning the importance of self-care and making time for herself. Charlotte also talks about how surrounding herself with others has helped improve her life this year.

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Ep. 59 - Balancing Work and Homeschooling: 3 Life-Saving Strategies 20:21

2M ago20:21

20:21

Trying to juggle homeschooling and work? It’s a lot—but you’re not alone. In this episode, Christy-Faith breaks down the chaos and shows you how to create a rhythm that fits your life. Learn how to focus on what matters most, build systems that work, and find peace in the mess. You can homeschool and work without losing your mind. Let’s talk about …

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Insider's Guide to Simple Online Safety for Kids 54:00

2M ago54:00

54:00

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with Jack Hughes, an expert in online safety, to provide parents with an insider's guide to protecting their kids in the digital world. As an 18-year-old who has grown up navigating the internet, Jack shares simple, effective strategies for setting up parental cont…

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Welcome to the Adventure 1:57

2M ago1:57

1:57

An introduction to 'Everydayadventures.world'- Join Charlotte as she explores this beautiful world through travel, daily life, self-discovery, hobbies and overcoming obstacles. This is a podcast where everyone can feel like they belong and see a bit of themselves and hopefully we can all learn a bit more about ourselves and the world around us.…

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S4E71: PANDAS: The Fight Against Chronic Inflammation 41:34

2M ago41:34

41:34

Today's show is all about PANDAS: The Fight Against Chronic Inflammation! Check out the show to find out what PANDAS is and more broadly what PANS is! My guest, Ethan Pompeo, not only shares his story of living with PANDAS and reaching a place of acceptance and proactive positivity, but he also shares with us his 3 step plan to living with chronic …

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Ep. 58 - Structure in Homeschooling: Finding Freedom Within a Framework 21:18

2M ago21:18

21:18

Feeling like your homeschool days swing between chaos and burnout? You're not alone. In this episode, Christy-Faith breaks down the truth about structure in homeschooling—and why it’s not the enemy of creativity but the key to peace, progress, and purpose. If you’ve struggled to find a rhythm that works for your unique family, this one’s for you. T…

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Teaching Kids About the World Through Food 55:04

2M ago55:04

55:04

Join us for an exciting episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations featuring Rowena Scherer, Founder and CEO of eat2explore, an award-winning experiential cooking kit company designed to bring cultural education alive through food. Drawing inspiration from her Malaysian roots, love for travel, and professional culinary training, Rowena shares h…

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Ep. 57 - The Future of Education: Why Families Are Leaving Public Schools 14:28

3M ago14:28

14:28

Is the public school system failing our kids? The numbers don’t lie—education scores are dropping while homeschooling is on the rise. In this episode, Christy-Faith breaks down what’s really happening, why families are leaving traditional schools, and how you can take control of your child’s education. The future of learning is changing—let’s talk …

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Parenting with Faith When Your Child Hurts 57:09

3M ago57:09

57:09

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Stephanie Buckwalter welcomes Emily Assell, a nurse educator, homeschooling mom, and bestselling author of the Generation Claimed board book series. Emily has a heart for equipping parents with biblical tools to help children through emotional struggles. As someone who deeply believes in …

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Ep. 56 - How to Find the Best Homeschool Co Op And When to Walk Away! 24:01

3M ago24:01

24:01

Finding the right homeschool co-op is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make—but no one talks about how hard it really is. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or just unsure if a co-op is the right fit, you're not alone. In this episode, Christy-Faith breaks down everything you need to know about choosing the right co-op—from must-ask que…

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Neurodevelopmental Movements for Strong Learning Foundations and Success 1:07:19

3M ago1:07:19

1:07:19

Join host Peggy Ployhar for an enlightening conversation with Sonia Story, M.S., creator of the Brain and Sensory Foundations program. Sonia shares how innate rhythmic movements, primitive reflex integration, and postural reflexes can help children build strong foundations for learning and thriving. With years of experience teaching these evidence-…

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S4E70: Autism, Vaccines, and Diets 36:37

3M ago36:37

36:37

Autism, Vaccines, and Diets are words that have caused much controversy over the years. Everyone has an opinion, and people often feel threatened when people have different opinions from them. I hope that this episode will be a breath of fresh air that allows us to consider some possibilities that might not always be considered. But mostly, I hope …

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Ep. 55 - Juggling Homeschool and Toddlers Without Losing Your Mind 20:43

3M ago20:43

20:43

Trying to homeschool with toddlers underfoot? It’s tough — but you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m sharing real-life strategies to keep older kids learning, younger ones entertained, and your sanity intact. Let’s make homeschool work for your whole family — chaos and all. EP. 55 _._ 🛠️ LINKS & RESOURCES Free Homeschooling Resources Find everythi…

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Embracing Nature's Classroom in Homeschooling 57:55

3M ago57:55

57:55

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Annie Yorty welcomes Joy Burns, a retired homeschooling mother and garden educator at the JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University. With her combined expertise in education, communication, and nature programming, Joy is passionate about helping families embrace nature’s classroom as a…

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S4E69: Mast Cell Activation Syndrome 27:30

3M ago27:30

27:30

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: when your body is a Mercedes living in a Ford pick-up world. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a common comorbidity for both Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Dysautonomia. It is often described as "being allergic to the universe." But perhaps it is best described as a Mercedes living in a Ford pick-up world. People wi…

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Ep. 54 - Social-Emotional Learning: Why Homeschooling Does It Better 20:40

3M ago20:40

20:40

Worried that your homeschool might be missing something? You’re not alone! In this episode, Christy-Faith dives into the buzz around Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and why homeschoolers don’t need a formal curriculum to raise confident, emotionally strong kids. Let’s talk about real-world learning, meaningful connections, and why your homeschool a…

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Understanding Your Learner to Avoid Teaching Pitfalls 59:24

3M ago59:24

59:24

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Dawn Jackson dives into the critical topic of learning dispositions and modalities with Educational Therapist and Learning-Success™ Coach Mariaemma Willis. Discover how understanding your child’s unique approach to learning can help you avoid common teaching pitfalls and create a more eff…

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Ep. 53 - Homeschooling Is Harder Than You Thought? Let’s Fix That! 20:13

4M ago20:13

20:13

Feeling overwhelmed with homeschooling? You’re not alone! In this episode, we break down the unrealistic expectations we place on ourselves and how to shift into a mindset that actually works. Let’s ditch the guilt and create a homeschool life that fits YOUR family, not someone else’s Instagram feed. EP. 53 _._ 🛠️ LINKS & RESOURCES Free Homeschooli…

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Alternative Education Models for Homeschool 1:00:52

4M ago1:00:52

1:00:52

In this episode, host Peggy Ployhar is joined by Jonas Koblin, award-winning education innovator and founder of the Sprouts YouTube channel. Jonas shares insights from his book, The Unschooler’s Educational Dictionary, a must-read guide for parents exploring alternative education models. Discover practical tips and inspiring ideas to navigate homes…

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Ep. 52 - 5 Books That Will Change Your Parenting & Homeschool Game 21:03

4M ago21:03

21:03

Must-Read Books That Will Change How You Parent and Homeschool We dive into five books that have the power to transform your homeschooling and parenting journey. These books offer practical strategies, mindset shifts, and research backed insights to help you build a thriving homeschool and a strong family connection. From simplifying your home to b…

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Brain-Based Solutions for Executive Functioning Success 1:00:52

4M ago1:00:52

1:00:52

Join host Peggy Ployhar on Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she welcomes Dr. Jan Bedell, a master NeuroDevelopmentalist, experienced educator, and Board Chair of SPED Homeschool. Dr. Jan’s journey began as a homeschooling mom seeking solutions for her struggling learner, leading her to discover the Neuro-Developmental Approach, which optimize…

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Ep. 51 - Do You Meet The Qualifications For Homeschooling? 19:08

4M ago19:08

19:08

Are you considering homeschooling but keep hearing that you’re “not qualified” to teach your child? In this video, we challenge that idea and explore why parents are more than capable of providing a great education at home. With states lowering teacher standards and even bringing in parents as substitute teachers, it’s time to rethink what it reall…

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Sensory Solutions for Helping Unique Learners Thrive at Home 1:00:39

4M ago1:00:39

1:00:39

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar welcomes Anne Laure Jackson, a seasoned Occupational Therapist with over 30 years of experience and a dedicated Sensory Health Coach. Anne Laure shares her passion for equipping families with the tools and knowledge to understand, assess, and manage sensory needs, helping un…

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Ep. 50 - Practical Tips for Homeschooling Multiple Ages 14:14

4M ago14:14

14:14

Are you overwhelmed by homeschooling multiple grade levels? 🤯 Whether you're teaching a kindergartner to read or explaining exponents to a 5th grader, juggling it all can feel impossible. But don't worry—there's hope! In this episode, Christy Faith breaks down practical solutions to help you homeschool with confidence. Learn how to shift your minds…

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Playing to Thrive: Building Essential Skills for Today's World 57:34

4M ago57:34

57:34

Could play be the key to helping homeschoolers thrive? In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar is joined by Alan Tang, founder of CoLab, an innovative online program that uses games, discussions, and escape rooms to equip kids with essential skills for the modern world. Alan’s journey—from corporate finance and cu…