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In this episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I sit down with Julius, one of 12 siblings, to unpack what it was like growing up in a massive homeschool family led by a pastor dad. From the chaos of daily life in a household of 14 to navigating the isolating years of COVID, Julius shares candidly about academic challenges, sibling dynamics, extracurricular outlets, and ultimately, a journey of questioning faith and identity. We explore the highs and lows of homeschooling in a big family, the tension between church and education, and how discovering a love of learning outside those boundaries shaped Julius into who they are today. This conversation is raw, real, and deeply relatable for anyone who’s grown up homeschooled, in faith-heavy environments, or simply searching for identity beyond the structures they were raised in.

Key Takeaways:

• Life inside a homeschool family of 12 kids: chaos, support systems, and sibling dynamics.

• Balancing academics with church commitments under a pastor parent.

• The impact of COVID on socialization, isolation, and extracurricular opportunities.

• Julius’ journey of self-discovery, questioning faith, and embracing identity.

• Why cultivating curiosity and a love of learning matters beyond traditional schooling.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:13 Meet Julius: Growing Up in a Big Homeschool Family

01:50 Homeschooling Dynamics and Daily Life

06:06 Academic Challenges and Achievements

14:08 Socialization and Extracurricular Activities

16:53 Impact of COVID-19 on Homeschooling

27:14 Deconstructing Faith and Personal Growth

33:59 Realizing the Fallibility of Beliefs

35:33 Exploring Other Religions

36:44 Questioning Faith and God's Existence

39:28 Controlling the Narrative of Personal Beliefs

44:43 The Importance of Learning and New Experiences

53:41 Balancing Extracurriculars and Church Commitments

58:30 Advice for Homeschooling Parents

01:04:19 Cherishing Sibling Bonds

01:06:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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