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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