The California Homeschool Podcast

When Every Child is Different: Embracing Special Needs in Your Homeschool

Have you ever wondered if you can really homeschool a child with special needs? Today's guest, Staci Morgan, is living proof that you can, and she's here to show you how.
Staci is a homeschool mom of four with a master's degree in pediatric nursing, but she'll tell you her real education has come from homeschooling her children through a range of special needs. In this conversation with Angela Lasch, Staci shares the practical strategies, mindset shifts, and biblical truths that have carried her family through the unique joys and challenges of special needs homeschooling.
This episode covers balancing academic and medical needs, navigating the hard days, avoiding comparison, finding community, and trusting God's design for your family. If you've ever felt overwhelmed or wondered if you're enough for this calling, this episode is for you.
Resources:
CHEA’s Special Needs Resources: https://cheaofca.org/special-needs-resources
CHEA Defender and Warrior Memberships include two free special needs consultations: https://cheaofca.org/join-chea-membership
CHEA’s Free Homeschool Essential Series events in Yucca Valley, Carlsbad, Sacramento, and San Jose: https://cheaofca.org/homeschool-essentials-series
Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a homeschool family who needs encouragement today.
#CHEAofCA #CaliforniaHomeschool #SpecialNeedsHomeschool #ChristianHomeschool #SpecialNeedsParenting #HomeschoolFamily #LearningDifferences #NeurodiverseHomeschool

Hearts Before Schedules: Creating a Love-Centered Homeschool

Hearts Before Schedules: Creating a Love-Centered Homeschool
About This Episode
In this episode, host Angela Lasch speaks with Rachel Zwayne about one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of homeschooling: keeping your family's heart at the center of your educational journey. Rachel shares insights from her experience homeschooling five children while navigating the unique challenges of having a family engaged in full-time ministry. If you've ever felt torn between creating the "perfect" homeschool on paper and simply knowing and discipling your children, this conversation is for you.
Guest: Rachel Zwayne
Rachel Zwayne was born and raised in New Zealand. At age 14, her father's ministry (Ray Comfort / Living Waters) relocated to Southern California, where she eventually met her husband and became the mother of five children.
Rachel has spent years encouraging other women in their roles as mothers, wives, and homeschoolers through her work as a leader and teacher of women's groups, and as a conference and retreat speaker. She has been married to Emeal ("E.Z.") for 29 years. They live in Southern California and are now enjoying being grandparents.
Rachel's passion for supporting mothers continues through her online ministry, Joyful Mothers, where she encourages mothers and wives to love and serve their families.
Connect with Rachel
Instagram: @joyful_mothers
Facebook: Joyful Mothers
Website: www.joyfulmothers.net
Why This Matters
Homeschooling is more than academics; it's an opportunity to disciple your children and build a family culture centered on Christ. Rachel's message reminds us that the most essential "curriculum" is the one written on your children's hearts through your consistent, loving presence and leadership.
Whether you're just starting your homeschool journey or you're years into it, this conversation offers perspective on what truly matters and how to keep that priority front and center even when life gets messy and complicated.
CHEA Resources & Events
Homeschool Essential Series – In March & April, join us in person in Southern and Central California to learn how to get started with homeschooling. Designed to equip and encourage homeschool parents just starting. Details will be published in our weekly newsletter soon. Not receiving the CHEA newsletter? Sign up on our website here. 
You CAN Homeschool – New YouTube Series launching in January, running through June. Packed with encouragement and practical tips for families beginning their homeschool journey.
Subscribe: CHEA's YouTube channel
2026 Annual Parenting and Homeschool Convention
Theme: "Preserving Liberty"
Location: Calvary Chapel Downey
Dates: July 10 and 11, 2026
This is where vision gets restored, friendships are deepened, and hearts are renewed.
Early Registration Dates:
CHEA Members: February 9, 2026 (discounted rate)
General Public: February 18, 2026
Learn more and become a CHEA member: www.cheaofca.org
Share Your Thoughts
Has this episode blessed your heart? We'd love to hear how you're implementing a hearts-first approach in your homeschool. Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with us on social media.
Don't forget to subscribe to CHEA's California Homeschool Podcast and share this episode with a friend who needs this encouragement!
Subscribe & Stay Connected
Podcast: The CHEA California Homeschool Podcast is available on YouTube and on all major podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify.
Website: www.cheaofca.org
Social Media: Facebook and Instagram.
Until next time, keep leading your family with vision, faith, and love. God bless you.
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Defending Liberty: Nathan Pierce on Homeschool Freedom in California

Episode Summary
In this episode, Angela Lasch, Executive Director of CHEA, sits down with Nathan Pierce, Executive Director of Family Protection Ministries, to discuss the critical importance of homeschool advocacy in California. Nathan shares his 20-year journey monitoring state legislation, the 39-year history of Family Protection Ministries' work protecting parental rights, and how FPM partners with CHEA to defend homeschool freedom. With California's legislative session beginning in January, this conversation is essential listening for every homeschooling family who wants to understand the landscape affecting their right to educate their children according to their Christian values.
Key Topics Covered
Nathan Pierce's background and journey into advocacy work
The detect, analyze, monitor, and intervene approach at Family Protection Ministries
39 years of legislative victories protecting homeschool freedom in California
The evolving homeschool community and how challenges have changed over decades
How FPM and CHEA partner to protect California's homeschooling families
Predictable patterns and recurring threats to homeschooling
What to expect as the California legislative session begins in January
The strategic importance of Capitol Day and grassroots advocacy
Nathan's concerns and hopes for the future of homeschool freedom in California
Important Dates & Action Items
Capitol Day 2025
Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Last Day to Apply: January 7, 2025
Visit https://fpmca.org/ for more information and registration
This is your opportunity to make your voice heard at the State Capitol and stand alongside other homeschooling families advocating for parental rights and educational freedom.
Resources Mentioned
Family Protection Ministries
Website: fpmca.org
Connect with Nathan for the latest legislative updates, blog posts, and speaker requests
CHEA Resources
Website: https://cheaofca.org/
Blog Article: 'The History of Homeschooling in California' - Read our comprehensive overview of how homeschooling has evolved in California and the legal battles that have shaped our freedoms today
 
Book Recommendation
Title: The Battle for Homeschool Freedom in California
Author: J. Michael Smith
Available in the CHEA Store
This book provides essential background on the legislative fights that have protected our right to homeschool and why vigilance remains critical.
Why This Conversation Matters
Our freedoms as homeschooling families are not guaranteed—they require constant vigilance, informed engagement, and action. As we enter 2026, it's crucial to understand the history of homeschool advocacy in California, recognize the threats we face, and commit to being active defenders of parental rights.
This podcast is part of CHEA's January emphasis on advocacy, reminding us not to take our freedoms for granted and to stay diligent in protecting the right to educate our children according to our Christian convictions.
Get Involved
Register for Capitol Day (Deadline: January 8) - Be the face of homeschooling in your district
Subscribe to FPM Updates - Stay informed about bills affecting homeschooling at fpmca.org
Read and Share - Explore the history of homeschooling in California on our blog and share with other homeschooling families
Get the Book - Purchase The Battle for Homeschool Freedom in California from the CHEA Store to deepen your understanding of the fight for our freedoms
Subscribe to the CHEA Podcast for more conversations equipping and encouraging California's homeschooling families.
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Winter is Calling: Your Family's Homeschooling Journey Starts Now

Guest: Penny Ross
Winter is a season of transition and new beginnings. For many homeschooling families, it's a time when important questions arise about education, calling, and the right path forward. In this episode, we talk with homeschool coach and consultant Penny Ross about helping families discern whether homeschooling is right for them, navigating transitions, and moving forward with confidence during seasons of uncertainty.
TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE
The Calling & The Moment: Understanding winter as a pivotal season for educational decisions
Validation & Permission: Addressing parental concerns and fears about homeschooling ("Will my kids fall behind?")
Moving Forward with Confidence: Taking action on your family's educational journey
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Winter is more than a season. It can be a moment of clarity when families recognize their true calling regarding homeschooling.
Your concerns about homeschooling are valid. Permission to address them and move forward comes from understanding your specific family situation, not from comparing yourself to others.
Your family's homeschooling journey is uniquely yours. What works for another family may not work for you, and that is okay.
Winter break is an opportunity to take action. Many families withdraw their children during this time and begin homeschooling in January, allowing for a fresh start aligned with the calendar year.
Support and personalized guidance are available when you need them. You do not have to figure this out alone.
CONNECT WITH PENNY ROSS
Website: https://www.toolsforthehomeeducator.com
CONNECT WITH CHEA
Website: CHEAofCA.org
CHEA’s Facebook Groups
Homeschool California
Working Homeschool Moms
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How to Enjoy the Holidays WITHOUT Homeschool Guilt

Episode Description
The holidays are approaching, and many homeschool parents are already feeling the tension between keeping up with academics and embracing this special season with their families. In this episode, we're tackling the guilt head-on and giving you practical strategies to plan your homeschool holidays with intention and peace.
Join us as we sit down with Danielle Huerta, veteran homeschool mom of four (with two already graduated!), co-op administrator, and host of The Peaceful Word podcast. Danielle shares wisdom from over a decade of homeschooling through the holidays, offering four different approaches families can take, practical planning steps you can implement right now, and biblical perspective on rest and rhythms.
Whether you're wondering if it's okay to take a break, struggling to balance church events and academics, or just feeling overwhelmed by all the demands of the season - this conversation will help you create a holiday plan that works for YOUR family.
Key Takeaways:
The holidays ARE educational - hospitality, service, reading, cooking, and family discipleship all count
Different families need different approaches, and your approach may change from year to year
Planning ahead NOW reduces stress later - calendar audit, academic checkpoint, tradition inventory
The memories and family culture you're building during holidays have eternal value
You're not falling behind - you're building a Kingdom-focused home
Connect With Our Guest:
Danielle Huerta
Podcast: The Peaceful Word on Spotify
Connect With CHEA:
Website: https://cheaofca.org/
Subscribe & Share:
If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe and share it with another homeschool parent who needs to hear this message! Your support helps us continue creating content to encourage and equip the homeschool community.
Reminder: God doesn't call the equipped—He equips the called. You're not walking this journey alone. CHEA is here to guide you.
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When Doubt Creeps In: Staying Confident in Your Calling

Guest: Zan Tyler - Homeschool advocate, speaker, author, and podcast host with 30+ years of experience encouraging families
Episode Description: Feeling like your homeschool year isn't going as planned? You're not alone. Join Angela Lasch as she talks with Zan Tyler about navigating the doubt and discouragement that often hits in October and November. Learn how to distinguish between normal growing pains and needed changes, escape the comparison trap, and stand firm in your calling even when the path gets rocky.
Topics Covered:
Common mid-year struggles homeschool families face
How to handle the "Am I cut out for this?" moment
Navigating comparison in the social media age
Mid-course corrections that help families thrive
Encouragement for parents questioning their choice
✨ MEET ZAN IN PERSON THIS NOVEMBER! ✨
Redding: November 8th
Fresno: November 15th
Get the heart-to-heart encouragement you need at a CHEA Homeschool Mini-Con! Experience community with families who understand your journey and receive refreshment for your homeschool calling.
Register now: https://cheaofca.org/
Zan Tyler Podcast: https://zantyler.com/podcast/
Reminder: God doesn't call the equipped—He equips the called. You're not walking this journey alone. CHEA is here to guide you.
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You CAN Homeschool: Why Choosing "Private" is Every California Homeschooler's Path to Freedom

Host: Angela LaschGuest: Dena Bless, CHEA Events Manager & Bay Area/NorCal Regional Advisory Board MemberEpisode Focus: Understanding California's legal homeschool options and the advantages of private home education
Episode Overview
This episode breaks down California's homeschool legal landscape and explains why the private education path offers the greatest freedom for families. Dena Bless shares her personal homeschool journey and professional expertise to help parents navigate their options with confidence.
Action Steps for Listeners
Explore Your Options: Research all three legal paths to understand what fits your family
Attend CHEA's October 1st PSA Filing Party – Get step by step help on filing the PSA, have fun, get questions answered, and be entered to win some great giveaways
Visit cheaofca.org for resources, directory access, and event information
Connect with CHEA for ongoing support regardless of which path you choose
Key Quotes & Takeaways
"The private path isn't just an option - it's your pathway to the educational freedom God intended for your family"
"You don't have to navigate this journey alone - CHEA is here to support you every step of the way"
"God has equipped you for this calling"
"Your family's educational freedom is waiting"
About the Guest
Dena Bless successfully homeschooled both daughters through graduation and brings years of experience as both a parent and administrator. Along with her husband Ed, she serves on CHEA's Bay Area/NorCal Regional Advisory Board and currently works as CHEA's Events Manager. Her background includes directing a Private School Satellite Program, giving her unique insight into all aspects of California's private homeschool options.
This episode empowers California families to understand their legal homeschool options and choose the path that best supports their God-given right and responsibility to direct their children's education.
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More Than a Helper: The Father's Essential Role in Homeschooling

CHEA's California Homeschool Podcast
Guest: Dr. Renton RathbunEpisode Focus: The vital role fathers play in Christian homeschooling
Episode Description
The homeschooling landscape has transformed dramatically over the past 25 years, with today's fathers more engaged than ever before in their children's education. Yet many Christian fathers still wonder: What exactly is my role in homeschooling?
Join Angela Lasch as she sits down with Dr. Renton Rathbun, a featured speaker at CHEA's recent Parenting & Homeschool Convention. With over 25 years in higher education, a PhD in apologetics, and real-world homeschooling experience, Dr. Rathbun brings both scholarly insight and practical wisdom to these crucial questions about biblical fatherhood and home education.
Whether you're a dad seeking guidance, a mom wanting to support your husband's involvement, or a single mom faithfully navigating this journey, this conversation offers biblical wisdom and practical insights for strengthening your family's homeschool journey.
Upcoming CHEA Events
Summer Leadership EventAugust 22La Mesa, California (San Diego area)
Homeschool Freedom Day with Family Protection MinistriesAugust 23La Mesa, California (San Diego area)
Both events offer perfect opportunities to connect with other homeschooling families and leaders.
 
Connect & Resources
CHEA (Christian Home Educators Association of California)
Website: www.cheaofca.org
Event Registration: https://cheaofca.org/summer-leadership-event-2025
Dr. Renton Rathbun
Podcast: The Renton Rathbun Show
Website: https://rentonrathbun.com/
Background: PhD in Apologetics, 25+ years in higher education, homeschooling father
Remember—whether you're partnering together as parents or courageously going it alone, you're not just educating your children; you're raising the next generation of Christian parents. God bless you and your homeschool journey.
 
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The Learning Curve: A First-Year Parent's Honest Story

Join Angela Lasch for an honest conversation with Shannon Allen, a first-year homeschooler discovering that this educational journey reveals so much more than academic learning. Shannon shares her authentic experience of taking the leap into homeschooling and how it's become a mirror, reflecting not only how her children learn but who she is as a parent and what truly matters to her family.
Perfect for first-year homeschoolers, families considering the transition, or anyone who needs to hear a real story about the challenges, joys, and discoveries of home education.
Resources
https://cheaofca.org/ - For resources, community connection, and donations
Support CHEA
This podcast is made possible through generous donations from families like yours. If today's episode encouraged you, please consider supporting our mission at https://cheaofca.org/donate-now. Every gift helps us continue providing resources to California's homeschooling community.
Remember: God has equipped you for this calling, and every family's learning curve looks different—and that's exactly as it should be.
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Grace for the Journey: A Veteran Homeschooler's Perspective on Private Christian Home Education

Host
Angela Lasch, Executive Director of the Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA)
Guest
Vicki Stormoen is a veteran homeschooler with over 30 years of experience who has guided eight of her nine children through graduation, with one still on the educational journey. She currently serves as principal of Heritage Christian School, which is a member of CHEA's Support Network. Vicki is passionate about raising a godly generation through private Christian home education.
Episode Overview
In this inspiring conversation, veteran homeschooler Vicki Stormoen shares decades of wisdom about trusting God's grace through every season of home education. With a particular focus on those intimidating high school years, Vicki encourages families at every stage of their homeschooling journey.
Vicki discusses her complete homeschooling journey from initial decision-making through high school graduation, covering the foundational role of Christian faith in education, practical wisdom gained over two decades, overcoming challenges and celebrating victories, and the lasting legacy homeschooling has created in her family. Special attention is given to high school homeschooling, including building confidence for advanced subjects, college preparation, and maintaining strong parent-teen relationships during these crucial years.
With God's help and grace, families can successfully navigate their homeschooling journey—including those intimidating high school years. Trust in God's provision and guidance for each step of the way.
Resources and Events
CHEA's Homeschooling High School Online Mini-Con will be held August 4th and 5th, with registration opening soon.
Support Network registration opens June 9th with a 10% early bird discount for groups registering by June 30th.
Visit CHEA's website at www.cheaofca.org for complete information about upcoming events, Support Network registration, and to make donations supporting their mission.
Production Credits
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Call to Action
Rate, subscribe, and share this episode to encourage other homeschooling families. Trust God's grace for your homeschooling journey!
This podcast is brought to you by The Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA).