The Brave Writer podcast is a big juicy conversation about how to bring learning to life for your kids! Julie Bogart and guests talk about how parents and children are partners in the learning adventure, especially when approaching the daunting task of writing. Brave Writer appeals to homeschoolers, educators, and parents who want more out of "school" than merely passing tests. Visit us at http://bravewriter.com and follow along at the blog for show notes: http://blog.bravewriter.com
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Julie Bogart | Brave Writer Podcasts
We’re Emma and Beth, two mom friends who have been homeschooling our kids together for about fifteen years in super-flexible, fun ways. Our oldest kids have graduated and are successful adults, and we are still homeschooling the rest of our kiddos. On our podcast and blog, we’ll be sharing our experiences along with tips and tricks for creating a peaceful homeschool life. Peaceful Homeschool: You can do it, and it can change your family’s life. https://peacefulhomeschool.com
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294. Make Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling Stick—with Books!
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Do you ever wonder why some learning experiences “stick” while others fade away? In this episode, we explore how grammar, punctuation, and spelling can come alive through brief, meaningful conversations and playful discovery—far from the world of endless worksheets. We discuss the power of “quick dips” in learning, the magic of using favorite books…
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Do we still need human storytellers in an age where technology can generate stories and essays with a click? This episode explores why nothing can replace the warmth and connection that come from sharing stories aloud as a family. We talk about the generational bonds formed through storytelling, the irreplaceable value of reading aloud, and how the…
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292. Homeschool Launchpad: Legal Essentials, Curriculum Choices, and Creating a Learning Space
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Starting to homeschool can feel overwhelming, but it’s all about creating a learning environment that sparks curiosity and builds strong family relationships. In this episode, we share practical tips for understanding legal requirements, choosing and personalizing curriculum, and setting up a home environment where learning happens naturally—on cou…
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There’s something special about the way a great book can bring families together. At Brave Writer, we spend months curating our Dart, Arrow, and Boomerang book lists—not just for educational value, but for the joy and connection they foster. Our guides are crafted to turn read-alouds into vibrant conversations, gently teach language through real li…
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290. Beyond the Classroom: Embracing the Unique Journey of Homeschooling
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Do you ever wonder what makes homeschooling truly different from traditional school? In this episode, we explore the real meaning of “home” in home education. We discuss the flexibility, comfort, and connection that only learning at home can offer, and why the heart of homeschooling isn’t about rigid schedules or perfect cooperation. Instead, it’s …
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289. A Round Table with Katie Doughty about Julie’s New Book
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Do your kids say they hate writing? You're not alone—and they're probably not telling the whole story. In this episode, we’re excited to share Katie Doughty’s interview with Julie about Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing! from the Raising Kind Humans podcast. That’s right—this week we’re turning the tables! Together, Katie and Julie explo…
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288. Opening Pandora’s Box: Social Media, Publishing, and Facebook
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Do you ever wonder why publishing feels harder than ever—even for talented writers? In this episode, we unpack the shifting realities of the publishing world, the gatekeeping role of social media, and how authors are increasingly responsible for their own marketing, platforms, and sales. We also share a personal story about losing tens of thousands…
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78. Dual Enrollment: Is It Right for Your Homeschooled Teen?
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In this episode of the Peaceful Homeschool Podcast, hosts Emma and Beth share their personal experiences with dual enrollment for their homeschooled teens. They dive into the pros, like cost savings and college preparation, and the cons, such as time management challenges and credit transfer issues. Join them for a heartfelt discussion to help you …
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287. Interesting Conversation with Julie and Melissa
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Sometimes, the most meaningful conversations aren’t planned—they unfold. In this week’s episode, we drop in on an unscripted, delightful catch-up between two close friends. From Julie’s recent retreat at Miraval (complete with clay turtles and 7 a.m. birdwatching) to Melissa’s college days giving prairie nature tours, this episode traces the kinds …
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77. Best of Series - Planning for the New Homeschool School Year
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This episode of the Peaceful Homeschool Podcast features Emma and Beth discussing how they plan for the upcoming homeschool year. They reflect on their different planning styles and emphasize the importance of involving their kids in the planning process to ensure a meaningful and enjoyable learning experience. Emma shares her preference for early …
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286. A Deep Dive With Sharon McMahon
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How do we prepare our children to think critically in an age of overwhelming information, bias, and quick judgments? In today’s Brave Writer episode, we interview Sharon McMahon, an award-winning educator, philanthropist, and the #1 New York Times-bestselling author of The Small and the Mighty. In our lively discussion with Sharon, aka “America’s G…
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Do you ever wonder why poetry feels like a balm for the soul—especially when life gets hard? In this episode, we read aloud a collection of favorite poems, reflecting on how poetry helps us process emotions, connect with our children, and find beauty in everyday life. We talk about why we keep reading poems even after National Poetry Month ends, ho…
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76. Best of Series - Summer Time: Creating Structure and Fun for Homeschooling Families
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In this episode of the Peaceful Homeschool podcast, hosts Emma and Beth discuss how to make the most of the summer season for homeschooling families. They share their personal experiences and strategies for creating a summer bucket list, incorporating daily activities, and maintaining a healthy balance between relaxation and productivity. From read…
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284. Eating in Color with Jennifer Anderson
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Feeding kids has become a high-stakes game, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we explore responsive feeding, joyful food marketing, and how to ditch fear-based nutrition rules in favor of connection, variety, and common sense. Jennifer Anderson of Kids Eat in Color helps us rethink what it means to nourish our children without the stress.…
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283. Exploring the Relationship between Kids and Tech
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Do you feel overwhelmed navigating screens, gaming, and tech in your home? You’re not alone. In this episode, we explore how to shift from blame to curiosity when it comes to your child’s digital life. Ash Brandin, a middle school teacher and the voice behind The Gamer Educator, joins us to talk about the real reasons kids love screens—and how we c…
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75. What is the culture of your home and homeschool?
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In this episode of the Peaceful Homeschool Podcast, hosts Emma and Beth dive into the topic of home culture. What kind of atmosphere do you cultivate in your family? A culture of kindness, perhaps? Emma and Beth share their personal experiences raising their kids and shaping the culture within their homes. They explore why this is especially vital …
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282. Help! What if you hate teaching writing?
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Do your kids hate writing? You're not alone. In this episode, we explore why so many children (and adults) feel blocked when it comes to writing—and why it's more important than ever to teach kids to write from scratch, even in an age of AI. We look at the emotional power of writing, the damage done by performance-based instruction, and how we can …
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This week on the Peaceful Homeschool Podcast, join Emma and Beth as they share their favorite strategies for teaching science in a homeschool setting. From budget-friendly and time-saving tips to engaging at-home science activities their kids love, this episode has practical ideas to inspire your homeschool journey. Send us a text Find Your Homesch…
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Do you ever wonder why some lessons stick and others fade away? In this episode, we explore the concept of deep meaning—the essential ingredient behind lasting, joyful learning. When kids connect personally with what they're learning, they move beyond memorization into true expertise. We unpack the difference between mastery and meaning, share real…
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73. Best of Series - Homeschool Time Management, Home Management
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So much to do, so little time. Some days that’s how it feels with cooking, cleaning, errands, activities, homeschooling. Today Emma and Beth share some of their experiences with making things more peaceful and less hectic at home. From the time your kids are toddlers, they can be learning that in a family everyone helps. From cooking once and eatin…
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280. Why We’re FIRED UP About Shannon Watts
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This week, we're re-airing our fantastic conversation with Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, where we discuss her inspiring new book Fired Up: How to Turn Your Spark into a Flame and Come Alive at Any Age. Tune in for a powerful discussion on activism, passion, and the power of stepping into your purpose! Shannon Watts is the founder of…
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279. Finally: Not Boring History with Emily Glankler
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Do you remember history class as a list of dates and names to memorize? What if we told you there’s a better way to approach it—one that sparks curiosity and connection? In this episode, we chat with historian and educator Emily Glankler about how to make history come alive for both kids and adults. We explore how history is more than just facts—it…
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72. Religions, No Religion, Politics, Can We Still Be Friends? Park Day Taboo or Not Taboo
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In this episode, hosts Emma and Beth dive into the world of homeschooling and community. Do we all need to share the same religion—or even the same views—to learn together, be friends, or invite each other into our lives? They explore the benefits of exposing kids to different beliefs, weigh potential drawbacks, and ask: Can you listen to us if you…
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Many parents think comics and graphic novels are just a fun diversion, but they are actually a powerful tool for learning. In this episode, we explore how comics build literacy skills, introduce advanced vocabulary, and foster a love of reading. We also discuss how graphic novels bring history and literature to life while encouraging kids to create…
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277. Soul School with Amber O'Neal Johnston
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How much do you love a great book list? The kind that introduces you to stories you never knew you needed? That’s exactly what Amber O’Neal Johnston has created in her latest book, Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy-Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Culture. In today’s episode, we explore the profound impact literature has on shapin…
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276. Freedom from Shame with Parenting Coach Crystal Haitsma
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How does shame shape the way we parent? In this episode, we sit down with life coach and homeschooling parent Crystal Haitsma to explore how shame influences our parenting—often without our realizing it. Crystal shares her insights on the difference between guilt and shame, and how we can shift from frustration to curiosity in our relationships wit…
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Once upon a time, getting lost in a book was second nature. But in today's fast-paced, screen-filled world, deep reading has become a struggle—not just for kids, but for adults too. In this episode, we explore why long-form reading matters, how digital consumption affects our focus, and practical ways to rebuild the habit of immersive reading. From…
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71. The Super Senior Year: Embracing a 5th Year of High School Homeschooling
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On this episode of the Peaceful Homeschool Podcast, Emma dives into the idea of a "super senior year" — a fifth year of high school that can help homeschoolers deepen their learning, explore new passions, and prepare more intentionally for the future. Whether it's mastering tough subjects or gaining extra time to mature and grow, this flexible appr…
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Homeschooling can feel overwhelming, especially when managing multiple children. One of the most powerful ways to revitalize learning and relationships is through one-on-one time. In this episode, we explore how small, intentional moments with each child can strengthen connection, build trust, and even make academics more enjoyable. From playing ga…
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