Zan Tyler Podcast: Thriving in Your Homeschool

Is My Child Behind? What Every Homeschool Mom Should Know About Reading Timelines | Ep. 145

When should your child be reading—and how do you know if they are a late bloomer or have a learning issue? Zan and producer Caleb Price tackle this question that keeps so many homeschool moms up at night, sharing honest stories, expert tips, and the importance of trusting God’s timing. They also unpack urgent news from across the country about growing threats to homeschool freedom—and what parents must do to protect it. Be inspired to nurture your child’s learning and stand firm in your freedom to homeschool.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/145-news-clips
 
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com

Cowboys, Calves, and Homeschooling: Raising Boys on the Ranch | Brandee Gillham | Ep. 144

What happens when homeschooling meets cattle drives and calving season? Zan is joined by Brandee Gillham, a fourth-generation ranch wife and homeschool mom of four boys, for a rich conversation about raising sons with faith, grit, and purpose. After surviving cancer, Brandee felt called to educate her children at home—blending Scripture, saddle-making, and discipleship into everyday life. Zan and Brandee explore how homeschooling fosters deep family bonds, spiritual growth, and resilience through both joy and sorrow. You’ll be inspired to see how life itself can become your most powerful classroom.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/144-brandee-gillham
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com

Purpose-Driven Learning: How Motivation Transforms Education | Jonathan Brush | Ep. 143

What transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary motivation? Zan Tyler and Jonathan Brush tackle a 12-year-old listener's question about self-productivity, while exploring the vital difference between thriving and mere success. Jonathan explains how purpose-driven goals create lasting motivation, and Zan’s encouragement highlights how homeschooling naturally fosters self-direction through tailored learning and meaningful service. Together they reveal why holding dreams loosely in faith often leads to unexpected fulfillment, and how simply taking "the next step" cultivates motivation that transcends both disappointment and achievement.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/143-jonathan-brush
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com

Beyond Bible Stories: Building Faith That Lasts in Your Homeschool | Renton Rathbun | Ep. 142

What happens when kids know Bible stories but don’t truly understand God’s Word? Zan Tyler talks with homeschool dad and theologian Renton Rathbun about why systematic Bible teaching is essential for your child’s faith journey. Together, they share how to create a Bible program at home that goes beyond devotionals and helps your children stand firm in today’s culture. You’ll hear practical ideas and encouragement to build a lasting foundation—one that shapes your homeschool and your family for generations to come.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/142-renton-rathbun
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com

Education Innovators: Why Homeschoolers Are Leading the Way | Ep. 141

What if school didn’t come with permission slips, rigid schedules, or one-size-fits-all rules?
Veteran homeschool advocate Zan Tyler and producer Caleb Price break down why more families than ever are turning to homeschooling—and how it’s changing lives.
From flexible routines and real-world learning to faith-centered curriculum and support for twice-exceptional learners, this conversation is filled with encouragement and practical ideas for building a thriving homeschool experience.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/140-alex-newman
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com

Reclaiming Education for Truth and Freedom | Alex Newman | Ep. 140

What if the foundation of American education was never meant to be separated from faith? Zan and Alex Newman explore how the Bible formed the cornerstone of early American education, from Harvard's original mission to classroom instruction nationwide. Alex shares historical insights about our founding fathers who viewed Scripture as the ultimate authority for knowledge and governance. Discover how biblical education produced the freest, most prosperous society in history and how homeschooling with this same foundation equips children not just with knowledge, but with purpose, discernment, and the ability to truly flourish.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/140-alex-newman
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com

Beyond School Walls: Discovering True Education | Alex Newman | Ep. 139

Could homeschooling be the greatest adventure your family ever takes together? Award-winning journalist Alex Newman shares how education beyond classroom walls transformed his family's life, creating opportunities to explore ancient ruins, trek through national parks, and build unforgettable memories. Alex reveals why spending time with his six children is his favorite thing in the world, challenging the notion that children are a burden rather than a blessing. Zan and Alex also dig into the literacy crisis and discuss how teaching phonics leads to literacy, transforms education, and even promotes emotional well-being.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/139-alex-newman
 
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com

Homeschool Conventions Inspire Confidence | Kristin Christianson | Ep. 138

Does attending a homeschool convention really help? In today's unique episode, Zan interviews two guests back to back. Nancy Manos has served as the director for a state homeschool convention and a national homeschool conference. She and Zan discuss why gathering with thousands of like-minded families transforms the homeschool experience. Zan then introduces Kristin Christianson, a second-generation homeschooling mom from North Dakota, whose first convention changed her life by eliminating her fears and letting her know she is not alone. The conversation highlights allowing children to learn at their own pace despite outside pressures and celebrates cherished books that span generations.
Nancy Manos is a graduated homeschool mom of two. The homeschool convention has been a wonderful source of inspiration, encouragement, and practical help since Nancy started homeschooling in the mid-90s. Nancy is part of the Zan Tyler Podcast team, helping with social media, show notes, Zan’s website, and more. Learn more about Kristin in the show notes linked below.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/138-kristin-christianson
 
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com

Homeschool Burnout and Depression: Honest Talk | Kristi Clover | Ep. 137

How do you find joy when your soul feels empty? Kristi Clover shares her experience at her father's bedside and the unexpected peace that found her in grief. Zan and Kristi discuss practical strategies for navigating depression, the importance of having a "safe person," and why simplifying your homeschool during difficult seasons isn't failure. Their honest conversation reminds us that true joy isn't an emotion—it's a divine gift from God that shines even through our tears.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/137-kristi-clover
 
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com

Beyond the Homeschool Smile: Tackling Depression | Kristi Clover | Ep. 136

What happens when the winter blues meet homeschool burnout? Through raw conversations and personal stories, Zan and Kristi Clover tackle the reality of midwinter homeschool struggles and feelings of depression. Kristi shares her journey through burnout and discovering her identity beyond motherhood. Together, they explore how faith, counseling, and honest conversations help navigate difficult seasons, offering hope and understanding for the challenging days.
SHOW NOTES
https://zantyler.com/podcast/136-kristi-clover
 
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey.
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3  Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2 
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR ZAN
https://speakpipe.com/Zan_Tyler_Podcast 
CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL
Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast 
SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL
https://bjupresshomeschool.com