Join the Empowering Homeschool Conversations team as they dive into practical ways to support your unique learner in all settings. From finding your voice in co-ops to addressing challenges on field trips and handling interactions in public spaces, this episode provides practical real-life tips and encouragement for parents. Discover strategies to help your child feel understood, confident, and empowered no matter where learning takes you! To join in the after-show conversation, join the...

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar is joined by Stefanie Hohl, M.Ed., an experienced educator and reading specialist, to discuss "Unlocking Literacy: Empowering Kids with Disabilities to Read." Stefanie, who has spent years teaching children to read, holds advanced degrees in children’s literature and early childhood education. Her dedication to making reading accessible led her to create the ABC See, Hear, Do Learn-to-Read method, a hands-on approach...

Join host Peggy Ployhar for an inspiring episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she chats with Christine Zell, a homeschooling mom to four, wife to her high school sweetheart, and creator of the Rabbit Trails Homeschool curriculum. Christine shares her journey of embracing a relaxed homeschooling atmosphere by letting go of the small things, focusing on enjoying her children, and cultivating a love of learning. In this episode, Christine offers practical insights on how to meet the...

Another inspiring episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations with host Peggy Ployhar dives into the topic of "Nurturing Creativity: How Parents Can Empower Unique Learners at Home" with Chad Stewart, a prolific writer, creativity specialist, and founder of Devonfield. Chad shares why creativity is now the most important skill parents can cultivate in their children and offers practical strategies for unlocking the potential of unique learners at home. Don’t miss this conversation on how...

Welcome to another episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations! Join host Peggy Ployhar, the Founder and CEO of SPED Homeschool, as she welcomes two incredible guests: Tricia Goyer and Sherri Seligson, MEd, for an inspiring conversation on "Happy Mothering: Embracing God’s Love and Navigating the Chaos of Your Calling." In this episode, Peggy, Tricia, and Sherri dive into how mothers can embrace the love and grace of God while finding joy amidst the chaos of motherhood. Tricia Goyer, a...

In this heartfelt episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar welcomes Sharon Jaynes, international speaker and bestselling author of twenty-six books, including Praying for Your Child from Head to Toe. Sharon, formerly the vice president of Proverbs 31 Ministries and co-host of their radio program, brings her deep well of wisdom to a conversation about finding hope and strength in the midst of family struggles, especially during the holiday season. Together, Peggy and...

What can we learn about bravery and trust from a guide dog? In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, co-host Stephanie Buckwalter sits down with Michael Hingson, New York Times bestselling author of Thunder Dog, to explore the incredible story of his survival on 9/11 and the life-changing lessons guide dogs can teach us. Michael and his guide dog Roselle escaped from the 78th floor of Tower One during the attacks on the World Trade Center, and his story has since inspired...

In this enlightening episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, Peggy Ployhar sits down with Kristy Anderson, an ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist with over 20 years of experience. Together, they dive deep into effective speech strategies that can help homeschool parents support their children in building stronger communication skills, improving social interaction, and fostering self-regulation. Our guest this week is Kristy Anderson, an ASHA-certified Speech-Language...

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar, SPED Homeschool Founder and CEO, is joined by Uzma Akser—homeschool mom, Executive & Leadership Coach (ACC), Certified Autism Specialist, and Neuroinclusion Advocate. Uzma shares her unique coaching strategies that empower homeschool success by turning children's passions into learning opportunities, especially for unique learners. As the Founder of Uzma Akser Coaching and Consulting (UACC) and Motherhood on the...

In this insightful episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar, Founder & CEO of SPED Homeschool, sits down with Marianne Sunderland, a seasoned homeschool mom and creator of Homeschooling with Dyslexia. Marianne, a mother of eight children—seven of whom are dyslexic—has years of firsthand experience navigating the challenges of homeschooling children with language-based learning challenges. In this episode, Marianne shares practical strategies for teaching...

In a world where screens dominate our daily lives, how can parents ensure their children navigate the digital landscape with wisdom and faith? Join us for a powerful discussion that offers practical advice and spiritual guidance for today’s tech-savvy families. In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with David Tucker, a seasoned pastor, technology executive, and founder ofDigitalParenting.com. David, a father of three teenagers, brings a wealth...

Are you stretching every dollar to make your homeschool budget work? In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with Krisa Winn, a seasoned homeschooling consultant and the new SPED Homeschool Director of Consulting and Partnerships, to explore the key to maximizing your homeschool budget. Discover how working with an educational consultant can be a game-changer for your family—not just in terms of educational outcomes, but also in managing costs. ...

Are you homeschooling a struggling learner and searching for strategies that really work? In this must-listen episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with co-host Dawn Jackson to delve into the top approach for achieving homeschool success with your child. Dawn shares her expert insights and practical tips that every parent should know to create an effective and nurturing learning environment. Tune in to discover how to empower your child to thrive in...

Join us for a moving conversation as co-host Stephanie Buckwalter from Empowering Homeschool Conversations sits down with Jenn Soehnlin, a devoted mother of two precious boys with special needs. Jenn shares her heartfelt journey of faith, the power of praying Scripture, and the unique challenges and blessings of special needs parenting. In this episode, you'll discover how to deepen your own prayers and find strength in faith while navigating the beautiful, complex world of special needs...

In this enriching episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, four of our five dedicated hosts, experienced special education homeschooling moms, come together for a power-packed discussion on a pertinent seasonal topic: Smooth Transitions: Easing Special Needs Kids Back into Homeschool Routines This episode is packed with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and lots of helpful insights aimed at getting your homeschooling schedule under control before it controls you. Join us as we...

Struggling to find the right support system for your homeschooling journey? You’re not alone! In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, four of our five show hosts share their seasoned advice on how to build a strong homeschool support network. From the uplifting successes to the tough challenges—and even a few hard-learned lessons—our hosts reveal the good, the bad, and the ugly of creating a community that truly supports you. Plus, stick around for the bonus “Ask Us Anything”...

In this enriching episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, four of our dedicated hosts, experienced special education homeschooling moms, come together for an insightful and helpful discussion on a critical back to homeschool topic: Ready, Set, Homeschool: Mental Prep for Moms of Diverse Learners   From the unique challenges of homeschooling children with special needs to the emotional toll it can take on the moms who juggle it all, our hosts dive deep into the realities faced by...

🔍 Are you ready to level up your homeschooling strategy? Join Peggy Ployhar on Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she dives deep with team co-host Annie Yorty in an insightful interview on "Strategic Homeschooling: Assessing Last Year and Planning Ahead for Diverse Needs." Discover practical tips, tools, and insights to help you evaluate your past year and plan effectively for the future, ensuring your child’s unique needs are met every step of the way. Don't miss out on this empowering...

Join host Leilani Melendez in an eye-opening episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she sits down with Aaron Brewster to dive deep into the emotional intricacies of parenthood. In "Parenting with Heart: Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Parenthood," Aaron shares profound insights and practical advice on how to connect with your children on a deeper level, manage the emotional ups and downs of parenting, and foster a nurturing environment at home. Whether you're a seasoned...

In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Stephanie Buckwalter welcomes Mary Underwood, author and blogger at What Empty Nest, whose mission is to encourage, equip, and empower parents of young adults with disabilities entering adulthood. Together, they explore the journey towards independence for young adults with disabilities, offering practical advice, personal stories, and valuable insights. Tune in to discover how to support and guide your young adult in achieving...

Join host Dawn Jackson in this enlightening episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she sits down with Marieamma Willis, an Educational Therapist, author, and Learning-Success™ Coach in private practice. Together, they dive into a refreshing perspective on ADHD, exploring how attention can be harnessed to focus on dreams, utilize humor, and make valuable discoveries. Marieamma shares her expertise and innovative strategies to help families and educators support children with ADHD in...

Are you a homeschooling parent struggling to inspire your child's inner author? Dive into this episode as Annie Yorty sits down with celebrated author and educator, Heidi Vertrees, to unlock the secrets of nurturing young writers in a homeschooling environment. Discover proven strategies, creative techniques, and personal anecdotes that will transform your homeschooling journey and ignite a passion for writing in your children. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that promises to equip...

In this enlightening episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with Amy Sneath, the dynamic owner of Moxie Learning to talk about math anxiety and strategies for frustration-free learning. Amy takes us on a journey through the origins of math anxiety, offering insights on recognizing when your child has mastered a topic versus needing more practice. She delves into the transformative power of understanding concepts through the concrete, pictorial, and...

Are you ready to dive deep into the world of neurodevelopment and discover the mysteries behind dyslexia? Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Dr. Jan Bedell, a renowned Master Neurodevelopmentalist. With her extensive expertise and passion for helping individuals unlock their full potential. Tune in to uncover the keys to understanding and supporting dyslexic individuals and gain a fresh perspective on the incredible capabilities of the human brain. Don't miss out on this...