This week I sit down with Ashley Peek, a current homeschool parent, content creator, and founder of the Secular Homeschool Revolution. Ashley shares her journey from navigating a broken public school system to creating a thriving secular progressive homeschool community in Texas. She opens up about her daughter’s challenge getting the IEP services she needed, the struggle to find inclusive co-ops, and how she built a space that celebrates diversity, social justice, and child-led learning.Together, we unpack the evolution of homeschooling beyond religion—covering everything from micro schools and anti-racist curriculum to sex education and the role of community in raising curious, confident kids.🔑 Key Points- How Ashley transitioned from frustrated parent to homeschooling advocate- What “secular progressive homeschooling” really means—and why it matters- The challenges of finding (and creating) inclusive co-ops for families of color- Building child-led education through clubs, field trips, and micro schooling- The importance of sex education, open conversations, and justice-centered learning- How homeschooling parents can still advocate for better public schools- Why mutual aid and community support are essential for homeschool success🔗 References & Guest Links- Podcast “Secular Homeschool Revolution”: https://open.spotify.com/show/5O8R301kT316E67DOf6y17?si=df7803f117334631- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@secular_homeschool_mama- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secular_homeschool_revolution⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Secular Progressive Homeschooling00:22 Meet Ashley Peek: Homeschool Parent and Content Creator02:03 Ashley’s Homeschooling Journey: Challenges and Decisions08:25 Building a Secular Progressive Homeschool Community15:59 Defining Secular Progressive Homeschooling25:34 Co-op and Micro Schooling: A New Approach40:23 Experiential Learning at Home41:18 The Role of Curriculum in Homeschooling42:14 Unschooling: Pros and Cons45:27 Encouraging Deep Dives into Interests46:42 Real-Life Skills vs. Academic Knowledge48:55 The Importance of Play and Exploration49:47 Parental Responsibility in Education59:20 Community Support in Homeschooling01:01:12 Advocacy for Public Education01:01:52 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIf you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.com

This week I'm reconnecting with longtime friend Stephanie to unpack her full-circle journey through homeschooling, early marriage, motherhood, and now parenting kids in public school. Stephanie shares candid reflections on growing up in an unstructured homeschool environment, her surprising enrollment into El Camino, and the decision to homeschool her own children—before realizing public school was the right fit. We explore the tension between faith, education, and identity in the homeschool world, revealing how breaking away led to personal growth, renewed curiosity, and healthier family dynamics.🔑 *Key Points*- Stephanie’s experience growing up in a large, loosely structured homeschool family- Transitioning from homeschool to El Camino and earning her GED- Early marriage, motherhood, and the challenges of homeschooling her own kids- Letting go of the “public school is evil” mindset- Rediscovering a love for learning as an adult through podcasts and books🔗 *References & Mentions*- Adventures in Odyssey- Group Solutions Homeschool Co-op- El Camino Independent Study Program- Ken Ham / Answers in Genesis (mentioned critically)⏰ *Timestamps*00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:55 Meet Stephanie: A Lifelong Homeschooler01:46 Homeschooling Dynamics and Family Life06:52 Extracurricular Activities and Group Solutions12:45 Transition to El Camino and GED Journey20:07 Homeschooling Her Own Kids24:17 Rethinking Education Choices25:42 Public vs. Homeschooling: A Personal Journey26:18 Challenging Public School Stereotypes28:39 Parental Involvement in Public School30:22 Balancing Exposure and Protection35:12 Advice for Prospective Homeschoolers38:42 Rediscovering the Love of Learning42:20 Unique Homeschool Memories45:19 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIf you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.com

Hey everyone—it’s Jacob Gooden, and I’m back with an update on the Ex-Homeschoolers Club! In this solo episode, I open up about why the show has been quiet for the past month, what’s been happening behind the scenes, and how I’ve been dealing with burnout, anxiety, and social media overload. I share the changes I’ve made to prioritize my mental health, including stepping back from social platforms, cutting down on caffeine, and making time for rest and fun. I also give you a sneak peek at the exciting new interviews coming soon—ranging from conversations with a sex education expert to homeschooling parents and college prep specialists. Finally, I ask for your feedback on the future direction of the show, possible community spaces, and ways we can grow together as ex-homeschoolers.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Why the Ex-Homeschoolers Club is not canceled and what’s coming next
• My personal journey with burnout, overwhelm, and how I’m working through it
• The importance of mental health practices: less caffeine, better sleep, stepping away from social media
• Sneak peek at upcoming guest interviews covering sex education, college prep, and modern homeschooling perspectives
• Call for listener feedback on building community (book clubs, Zoom hangouts, Reddit/Discord, etc.)

⏰ Timestamps

00:00 WE ARE BACK BABY

00:30 Where have I been?

04:28 What is happening with the show

05:53 I need your feedback

The Ex-Homeschoolers Club isn’t going anywhere—but I want your help shaping its future! Share your thoughts in the YouTube comments, on Spotify, or by emailing me at exhsclub@gmail.com. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who needs it. And if you’re new here, check out past episodes to get caught up. Let’s keep building this space for ex-homeschoolers together.

Get signed up for the newsletter here: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/
In this solo episode of the Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I, Jacob Gooden, turn the mic on myself to share my full homeschooling journey. From starting in second grade to navigating private Christian homeschool co-ops in Southern California, I unpack the curriculum choices, the socialization opportunities, the challenges, and the lessons I carried into college and adulthood. I reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of Christian-based education, the role of extracurriculars like swing dance and theater, and how homeschooling shaped my worldview, work ethic, and career. This is a candid look at my personal story and what I’ve learned about education, growth, and identity along the way.

Key Takeaways:

• Insights into different types of homeschooling: private, charter, and unschooling.

• Curriculum that worked (Math-U-See, Story of the World) and what fell short (Spanish with Rosetta Stone).

• The role of co-ops, church groups, and extracurriculars in building socialization skills.

• How Christian-based curriculum shaped my early worldview—and where it left gaps.

• Transitioning from homeschool to college: challenges, growth, and learning to adapt.

Resources Mentioned:

• Math-U-See (math curriculum)

• Story of the World (history curriculum)

• Exploring Creation (science curriculum)

• Rod & Staff English

• Rosetta Stone (language learning)

• CHEA (Christian Home Educators Association)

If this episode resonates with you, share it with a friend, leave a review on your favorite podcast app, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Ex-Homeschoolers Club newsletter for updates, resources, and community stories. Join the conversation with me on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok at @exhsclub.

If you haven't already, consider subscribing to the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Ex-HomeschoolersClub

In this episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I sit down with Julius, one of 12 siblings, to unpack what it was like growing up in a massive homeschool family led by a pastor dad. From the chaos of daily life in a household of 14 to navigating the isolating years of COVID, Julius shares candidly about academic challenges, sibling dynamics, extracurricular outlets, and ultimately, a journey of questioning faith and identity. We explore the highs and lows of homeschooling in a big family, the tension between church and education, and how discovering a love of learning outside those boundaries shaped Julius into who they are today. This conversation is raw, real, and deeply relatable for anyone who’s grown up homeschooled, in faith-heavy environments, or simply searching for identity beyond the structures they were raised in.

Key Takeaways:

• Life inside a homeschool family of 12 kids: chaos, support systems, and sibling dynamics.

• Balancing academics with church commitments under a pastor parent.

• The impact of COVID on socialization, isolation, and extracurricular opportunities.

• Julius’ journey of self-discovery, questioning faith, and embracing identity.

• Why cultivating curiosity and a love of learning matters beyond traditional schooling.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:13 Meet Julius: Growing Up in a Big Homeschool Family

01:50 Homeschooling Dynamics and Daily Life

06:06 Academic Challenges and Achievements

14:08 Socialization and Extracurricular Activities

16:53 Impact of COVID-19 on Homeschooling

27:14 Deconstructing Faith and Personal Growth

33:59 Realizing the Fallibility of Beliefs

35:33 Exploring Other Religions

36:44 Questioning Faith and God's Existence

39:28 Controlling the Narrative of Personal Beliefs

44:43 The Importance of Learning and New Experiences

53:41 Balancing Extracurriculars and Church Commitments

58:30 Advice for Homeschooling Parents

01:04:19 Cherishing Sibling Bonds

01:06:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to The Ex-Homeschoolers Club on your favorite podcast platform, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend who’d connect with Julius’ story. Don’t forget to follow me on YouTube, Instagram, and Threads at @EXHSClub to join the ongoing conversation.

In this episode of the Ex-Homeschoolers Club, we’re wrapping up our four-part series on Joshua Harris’s controversial book I Kissed Dating Goodbye. In this final installment, I dissect Part Four, “Now What?”, where Harris outlines his vision for marriage, intimacy, and what he calls “principled romance.” I share personal stories of feeling pressured to marry young, highlight the contradictions in Harris’s teachings on intimacy, and reflect on how purity culture created lasting shame around sex and relationships. If you’ve been following the series, this episode ties it all together and calls out the damaging legacy of purity culture.

Key Takeaways:

• Why young Christians felt pressured to marry quickly and “redeem the time.”
• Harris’s inconsistent and harmful ideas on intimacy.
• The damaging effects of modesty culture and gender stereotypes.
• How parental control undermined personal agency in relationships.
• The lasting shame purity culture instilled around sex and marriage.

Resources Mentioned:

• I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris

Previous podcast episodes in this series

• Part 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5FUQajXv6SLZzwpQfkwE89?si=8b13dae4bd2f49b6 
• Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7eYDn78AVImTRde8Igfr9d?si=90b6d63245b74df5 
• Part 3: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4tlrZ8S9T2VjwNJJp8SuxO?si=e6b8022f3fb34db1 

If this episode resonated with you, make sure to subscribe to the Ex-Homeschoolers Club on your favorite podcast app, leave a review to share your thoughts, and join the discussion in our community at r/ExHomeschoolersClub. Let’s continue unpacking the impact of purity culture together.

This week on the podcast, we’re throwing a birthday party! It's the one-year anniversary of the Ex-Homeschoolers Club, and to celebrate, I brought back my very first guest and longtime friend Cari Frantz for a fun and nostalgic conversation. We dive deep into the media, books, movies, and music we weren’t allowed to consume growing up as Christian homeschoolers—and the surprising ways we found our way to them as adults. From Harry Potter to Pitbull concerts, purity culture to Plugged-in reviews, we talk about the weird rules we lived by, what we now enjoy guilt-free, and how we're making peace with our past.

Whether you're a fellow ex-homeschooler or just curious about the quirks of conservative upbringings, this episode will have you laughing, nodding along, and maybe even dusting off your old Adventures in Odyssey tapes.

Key Takeaways:

• The irony of being banned from Harry Potter but encouraged to read Narnia
• PluggedIn, Christian DVD players, and other evangelical tools for "safe" media
• Watching or reading forbidden content as adults and learning to trust our own boundaries
• How music like Pure NRG, Backstreet Boys, and even Pitbull shaped our teenage rebellion
• Respecting our parents' intentions while forging our own relationships with pop culture

Resources Mentioned:

• PluggedIn.com
• Adventures in Odyssey by Focus on the Family
• The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
• Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
• The Space Trilogy by C.S. Lewis
• Crossroads Guitar Festival
• Pure NRG, Jump5, Charlie Puth (early covers), Christina Grimmie

Did you grow up homeschooled with strict media rules? What were you not allowed to read, watch, or listen to? Drop a comment with your story. And if you’ve been with the podcast from the beginning, help us celebrate one year by sharing your favorite episode!

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow the Ex-Homeschoolers Club for more stories every week. And share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.com

This week I'm diving into Part 3 of I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris—a section packed with so-called "practical tools" for keeping Christian teens pure. Spoiler: it's just more purity culture with a fresh coat of patriarchal paint.

In this episode, I unpack chapters 8 through 11, covering Harris’s infamous four-step plan for building godly relationships. We look at what it means to “start with a clean slate,” why he thinks you need your parents’ permission to date, and the mental gymnastics required to avoid every ounce of human attraction. I also share personal stories about awkward birthday ceremonies, homeschool dating dynamics, and how being taught to distrust your own body messes you up well into adulthood.

This one’s heavy but important—especially if you're trying to untangle the emotional damage of purity culture.

In This Episode, I Cover:

• The “Four Steps” to godly dating and why they don’t hold up

• How purity culture reinforces shame, secrecy, and lack of bodily autonomy

• My own cringe memories of gendered homeschool rituals and toxic birthday parties

• How mentorship, boundaries, and even lust are twisted in this framework

Subscribe to my email newsletter: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/subscribe 

This week on the Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I had an absolutely joyful conversation with artist, teacher, and former homeschooler Noah Fontana. From the moment we hit record, it felt like two longtime friends reconnecting. We dove deep into Noah's unique homeschool upbringing, how his love of comic books and creativity shaped his early education, and how homeschooling helped him lean into his artistic talents. We also explored Noah's journey from animation work at DreamWorks to discovering his true passion in art therapy and teaching. If you've ever wrestled with the intersection of creativity, identity, and education, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• How Noah's homeschool environment nurtured his passion for art and comics

• The connection between storytelling, animation, and emotional expression

• The challenges of people-pleasing, code-switching, and growing up in a controlled homeschool bubble

• How art therapy changed Noah's career trajectory and how he connects with students through creative expression

• The value of reframing "bad" traits like people-pleasing into useful tools when used mindfully

Connect with Noah

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teacher.noah/

• Grab a copy of his book Mixed-Up Metaphors: https://a.co/d/gHFVTq6

Resources Mentioned:

• Jeneve Dube's podcast "Homeschooled": https://solo.to/homeschooled
• "Creativity, Inc." by Ed Catmull: https://a.co/d/h4CuAiQ

This week on The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I'm diving into Part 2 of I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris, tackling the chapters that aim to define "true Christian love" and promote the gift of singleness.

As a former homeschooler who grew up immersed in purity culture, I bring my personal experience and critical reflection to the table. We unpack the book's problematic teachings around sex, self-love, gender roles, and its impact on developing healthy relationships. I also reflect on the emotional weight of shame, the myth of male self-control, and the limitations of evangelical definitions of love and purity.

This episode is raw, personal, and full of the hard questions we need to ask about how books like this shaped a generation.

Key Topics Covered:

• The toxic binary of Christian vs. worldly love

• How purity culture shames normal human emotions and desires

• The myth of male sexual helplessness and how it harms everyone

• The concept of singleness as a spiritual calling vs. reality

• The failure of evangelical literature to cite evidence or acknowledge harm

Resources Mentioned:

• I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris
• When Religion Hurts You by Laura E. Anderson
• The Westminster Catechism
• The story of King David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11-12)

Hey, it’s Jacob Gooden, and this week on the Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I’m joined by the thoughtful and artistic Marsh—the youngest guest to date and a recent escapee from the world of homeschooling. We dive into their story of growing up homeschooled in rural Oklahoma, using the ACE (Accelerated Christian Education) curriculum, and being raised by their grandmother in a deeply religious environment. Marsh opens up about the challenges of being a queer, creative kid in a conservative Christian bubble, and how homeschooling shaped (and sometimes hindered) their education, self-worth, and social development. It’s a raw and reflective conversation about isolation, religion, and finding your identity outside of the system.

💡 Key Topics & Takeaways:

• What it’s like being homeschooled by your grandma using the ACE curriculum
• How ADHD and rural isolation shaped Marsh’s academic and social experience
• The religious trauma and fundamentalist ideology baked into Christian homeschooling materials
• The importance of creative outlets like art in surviving mental and emotional hardship
• Reclaiming your identity as a queer person after leaving a controlling environment

📚 Resources & Mentions:

• ACE Curriculum (Accelerated Christian Education)⁠
• When Religion Hurts You by Laura E. Anderson
• Awana (evangelical youth program)

• Indistractable by Nir Eyal (book on managing focus and technology)

🔗 Connect with Marsh

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marshintobattle
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marshin.to.battle/

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement01:16 Meet Marsh: A New Ex-Homie02:09 Marsh's Homeschooling Journey04:03 The ACE Curriculum Explained07:15 Challenges and Dynamics of Homeschooling41:10 Creativity and Art in Marsh's Life43:22 Rediscovering Creativity Post-Internet43:59 The Ebb and Flow of Creative Waves44:54 Finding Comfort in Creativity46:21 The Therapeutic Power of Art47:37 Lego and Problem-Solving Creativity49:09 Dealing with Creative Blocks52:19 The Impact of Stress on Creativity55:12 Religious Upbringing and Homeschooling56:22 Questioning Religious Teachings01:09:33 Homeschooling Challenges and Advice01:14:55 Reflecting on Homeschooling Experiences01:17:21 The Importance of Tailoring Education01:20:47 Final Thoughts and Farewell

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show on your favorite podcast app. It helps other ex-homeschoolers find the pod! Subscribe on ⁠YouTube⁠ to watch full video episodes.

I read "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" by Joshua Harris—so you don’t have to. This is Part 1 of a multi-episode series where I unpack the book’s harmful messages, its connection to purity culture, and its deep roots in the Christian homeschooling world. From courtship myths to repressed sexuality and emotional confusion, I explore how this 1997 “dating manual” shaped a generation—and how Harris himself eventually walked it all back.

I also share personal experiences growing up in a conservative Christian homeschool setting, including my early encounters with the Harris family’s broader influence. Whether you're deconstructing your upbringing or just want to understand how purity culture warped an entire generation’s view of relationships, this episode is for you.

Key Topics Covered:

- The origin and impact of I Kissed Dating Goodbye

- Why purity culture thrived in the homeschool movement

- My own history with the Harris family’s teachings

- Courtship vs. dating: myths, harms, and personal pushback

- Emotional, sexual, and developmental confusion caused by purity messaging

Resources & Mentions:

- I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris (now retracted)

- Do Hard Things by Alex & Brett Harris

- Sex Isn’t the Problem (Lust Is) by Joshua Harris

- HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association)

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to the Ex Homeschoolers Club

01:09 Overview of 'I Kissed Dating Goodbye'

02:39 The Harris Family and Homeschooling

03:30 Personal Experiences with the Harris Family

05:17 Initial Thoughts on 'I Kissed Dating Goodbye'

06:34 Courtship vs. Dating

07:35 Navigating Teenage Years and Sexuality

12:38 Chapter One: Smart Love

22:14 Chapter Two: 7 Habits of Highly Defective Dating

28:20 Introduction to Defective Dating Habits

29:12 Intimacy Without Commitment

32:14 Physical Relationship vs. True Love

34:44 Dating as a Distraction

36:46 Artificial Environment in Dating

41:25 Chapter Three: A New Attitude Towards Dating

42:20 The Gift of Singleness

47:22 Purity and Boundaries in Relationships

51:48 Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections

If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclub

Email me at exhsclub@gmail.com

This week, I sit down with Charlie Monroe, a licensed therapist and former youth pastor, to explore the complexities of growing up homeschooled in a large, religious family. Charlie shares his K-12 rural homeschool experience, the emotional toll of isolation, and the transition into college and career. We discuss the impact of evangelicalism, rigorous religious curricula, and emotional enmeshment in homeschool families. As a therapist, Charlie now works with modern homeschool families, offering insight into both the successes and systemic challenges they face. This is a powerful conversation about deconstruction, emotional maturity, and how we can better support future generations of homeschoolers.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

• Life in a rural homeschool family of nine with a rigorous religious focus

• The emotional and social cost of isolation during middle and high school years

• Transitioning from homeschool to a Christian university and later to youth ministry

• Leaving evangelicalism and navigating spiritual deconstruction

• How emotional enmeshment affects homeschool families

• What Charlie sees today as a family therapist working with homeschooling clients

• A call for humility and emotional health in educational choices

Connect with Charlie:

• Charlie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charles_irving/ 

Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:52 Charlie's Homeschooling Background01:40 Daily Life on the Farm03:39 Social Dynamics and Isolation10:27 Religious Influence in Homeschooling13:47 Transition to College21:20 Questioning Faith and Career in Ministry26:56 Reflecting on Youth Ministry and Transition to Therapy27:56 Dealing with Anger and Writing as a Coping Mechanism31:39 Experiences in Family Therapy and Homeschooling34:42 Challenges and Dynamics in Homeschooling40:13 Emotional Health and Homeschooling49:42 Final Thoughts and Advice for Homeschooling Parents55:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

If you enjoyed this conversation, make sure to subscribe to Ex-Homeschoolers Club on your favorite podcast app, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who grew up homeschooled.

Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/ and TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclub, or email us at exhsclub@gmail.com. We want to hear your story too!

This conversation dives into the highs, lows, and hard truths of RB's journey through homeschooling, patriarchal systems, and his path to healing. We discuss his early education in Pennsylvania, the move to Kansas, and the gendered disparities in educational investment he witnessed as the oldest of five siblings. RB opens up about the unintended privileges he received, his culture shock entering college and the workforce, and how he later found healing through therapy, community, and authentic adult friendships. Topics like male friendship, trauma recovery, and starting a coworking space in Texas also make this an episode full of raw honesty and powerful insights.

Key Takeaways:

• Homeschooling looked vastly different in Pennsylvania vs. Kansas, with the latter having virtually no oversight.

• Patriarchal religious beliefs led to unequal educational opportunities for RB and his sisters.

• Post-homeschool life brought intense culture shock, but also personal and professional growth.

• RB found healing through therapy, adult friendship, and creating Bastrop Coworking in Texas.

• Real success is about embracing curiosity, connection, and lifelong learning, not replicating rigid ideals.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:18 Guest Introduction: RB's Homeschool Experience

02:31 Early Homeschooling in Pennsylvania

08:27 Transition to Homeschooling in Kansas

16:26 Challenges and Gender Disparities in Homeschooling

30:37 Post-Homeschool Life and Culture Shock

37:23 Reflecting on Religious Upbringing

38:51 College Life and Career Goals

43:50 Homeschooling and Socialization

46:02 Friendships and Community Building

51:17 Challenges and Growth in Adulthood

54:18 The Importance of Social Connections

01:07:17 Homeschooling Reflections and Advice

01:09:31 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Connect with RB

• Bastrop Coworking: https://www.instagram.com/bastropcowork/

• RB on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyerbrown/

If you resonated with this episode, share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to The Ex-Homeschoolers Club.

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ex-HomeschoolersClub
• Newsletter: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/subscribe
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclub
• Email me at exhsclub@gmail.com

Join the Newsletter for the latest Ex-Homeschooler News: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/subscribeIf you’re an ex-homeschooler with a story to tell—this episode is your invitation to share it. Today I’m breaking down everything you need to know about becoming a guest on the show. Whether your homeschooling experience was amazing, traumatic, or somewhere in between, your voice matters here. In this episode, I walk you through the kind of stories I’m looking for, the interview process (spoiler: it’s super chill), and even give you a sneak peek at the types of questions I ask. If you’ve ever thought, “Could I be on a podcast?”—this episode invites you to find out. Let's get to know each other. Shoot me an email at exhsclub@gmail.com.💡 Key Topics Covered:- Why your homeschool story is definitely worth sharing- The types of guests and topics I’m looking for (neurodivergence, purity culture, curriculum wins/fails, LGBTQ+ experiences, and more)- What the interview process looks like from start to finish- Sample questions I’ll likely ask in your episode- How this show helps shape the next generation of homeschoolers📌 Takeaways:- Your story matters. Even if it feels ordinary to you, it could mean the world to someone else.- Everyone’s homeschool experience is different. I want to highlight the full spectrum—from big families to agnostic households.- You don’t need to be a pro. The process is designed to be low-pressure, flexible, and collaborative.- This podcast is more than therapy. It’s a way to connect, validate, and impact future homeschoolers and parents.- We edit the episodes. So don’t worry about messing up—we got you.

⏰ Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:49 Why You Should Be a Guest

01:47 Topics of Interest

08:11 Interview Process Overview

13:07 Sample Questions

16:16 Upcoming Episodes and Closing Remarks✅ Call to Action:Think you’ve got a story worth telling? You do. Email me at exhsclub@gmail.com and let’s make it happen. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to the show, leave a review on your favorite podcast platform, and join the newsletter to stay in the loop.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclub

Join the Newsletter for the latest Ex-Homeschooler News: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/subscribe

In this powerful follow-up episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, Alyssa Gaona is back for a raw, insightful conversation about her personal experiences with autism and neurodivergence. While her first appearance focused on the wild realities of growing up homeschooled, this episode takes a deeper dive into how her undiagnosed autism shaped her social development, relationships, and self-worth. Alyssa opens up about the challenges of masking, navigating dating and friendships as a neurodivergent adult, and how the homeschooling environment lacked the resources and awareness she needed.

We also explore broader societal perceptions of autism, the impact of labeling, and how entrepreneurs and creatives often operate with neurodivergent brilliance. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants a better understanding of what life on the spectrum truly feels like.

Key Takeaways:

• What autism is, how it develops neurologically, and common misconceptions

• Alyssa's self-diagnosis journey through studying child development and taking the RAADS test

• The reality of masking and its emotional toll

• Why clear, direct communication is essential for neurodivergent individuals

• The failure of many homeschool environments to recognize and support neurodiverse learners

Resources Mentioned:

• RAADS-R test (for self-assessing traits of autism): https://embrace-autism.com/raads-r/

• Love on the Spectrum (Netflix series)
• Kaelynn Partlow's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Kaelynnism
• Alyssa's Substack: https://alyssagaona.substack.com 

If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.com

On today's show I'm joined by Mia Brooks, a longtime family friend. We dive into Mia's unique homeschool upbringing as the youngest of several siblings, her early leap into community college at age 14, and her reflective journey as a neurodivergent adult. From a less structured homeschool experience to discovering her ADHD as an adult, Mia shares candidly about burnout, creativity, and finding her voice through music.

If you're a former homeschooler navigating adulthood, neurodivergency, or the creative grind, this one's for you. We discuss everything from educational gaps to emotional growth, and how embracing one's uniqueness can unlock surprising paths.

Key Takeaways:

• Mia's flexible homeschool education fostered independence but masked underlying struggles.
• Community college at 14 gave Mia early access to higher learning but came with social culture shock.
• Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult reframed many of Mia's childhood behaviors and coping methods.
• Burnout and shame were lingering effects from trying to "overachieve" in a neurotypical world.
• Today, Mia channels her experience into music, releasing indie work under the name "Babi Manatee."

Stream Jeremy's New Album Here: https://www.blondemedicine.com/bm142-almost-a-grown-man

In this episode of, I sit down with comedian Jeremy Alder to unpack his wild and winding journey from fundamentalist Christian homeschooling in rural Texas to releasing his debut stand-up comedy album, Almost a Grown Man. Jeremy shares what it was like to be one of the only homeschoolers in South Texas during the 1980s, his early curriculum of Bible studies and Highlights magazines, and how his world expanded through music, friendship, and eventually a dive into philosophy. We discuss his later-life entry into stand-up comedy, how preaching prepared him for the stage, and the ups and downs of crafting a career in comedy. This episode is filled with laughs, insights, and nostalgia for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider trying to make sense of their past.

Key Takeaways:

• Jeremy was homeschooled starting in the mid-80s with no local community or support network.

• His early education relied on Highlights magazines and Bible memorization.

• A shift occurred in the '90s when homeschooling became more accepted and structured.

• Jeremy's path included Christian rock dreams, a dip into philosophy, and eventually stand-up comedy.

• He uses humor to process and reflect on his strict religious upbringing.

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome to the Ex Homeschoolers Clubhouse

00:09 Introducing Jeremy Alder: From Rural Texas to Stand-Up Comedy

03:05 Jeremy's Homeschool Journey: Early Years and Challenges

12:48 The Evolution of Homeschooling: Community and Acceptance

24:44 High School and Beyond: Navigating Adulthood

36:42 Exploring Faith and Philosophy: A New Path

38:23 Connecting with the Intelligent Design Community

39:42 Transition to University Life

40:14 Challenges and Triumphs of Homeschooling

40:44 Applying to College as a Homeschooler

44:35 Embracing the Homeschool Identity

47:30 Journey into Comedy

54:19 The Art and Struggle of Stand-Up Comedy

01:08:21 Reflections on Homeschooling and Public Education

01:16:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Jeremy Alder

• Vist his website for the most up to date information: https://www.jeremyalder.com
• See his previous special: https://youtu.be/i9OmDo5Weoc?si=nBFGW9emmrnVr5hM

If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you!

• Join the Newsletter: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/subscribe
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclub
• Email me at exhsclub@gmail.com

Join the Newsletter for the latest Ex-Homeschooler News: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/subscribeIn this episode of The Ex-Homeschoolers Club, I'm reflecting on a decade of being homeschooled and dive into three specific areas I would approach differently if I had the chance to go back. While I appreciate much of what my parents did, this episode explores critical reflections on my understanding of government, religious curriculum, and emotional boundaries. I also unpack how these elements have impacted my adult life and what I think future homeschoolers can do better. Whether you're a current homeschooler, a curious ex-homeschooler, or just someone interested in education reform, this one's for you.Key Takeaways:

• Governement Education Matters: I discuss the missed opportunity to deeply understand local and state politics beyond textbooks—through field trips, town hall meetings, and active involvement.
• Challenging Religious Narratives: Why I'd encourage exposure to a broader spectrum of belief systems rather than faith-based exclusivity in every subject.
• Emotional Boundaries in Education: The crucial need for learning to set boundaries, communicate discomfort, and recognize the importance of emotional well-being from a young age.
• The Power of Perspective: Looking back on my homeschool journey offers powerful lessons for educators, parents, and students alike.
• Self-Reflection as Growth: Honest retrospection is key to personal development and helps create better systems for the next generation.

If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might benefit from hearing this story. Follow Ex-Homeschoolers Club on Instagram and TikTok for updates, and send us a message – we’d love to hear from you!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhsclub/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exhsclubEmail me at exhsclub@gmail.com#Homeschooling #ExHomeschoolers #EducationReform

Join the Newsletter for the latest Ex-Homeschooler News: https://exhsclub.beehiiv.com/subscribe

I can't believe it's been over 7 years... on today's podcast I reconnect with my longtime friend Katrin McGoogan (formerly Frantz). We dive deep into our shared homeschooling past, her experience navigating adulthood and motherhood, and her recent ADHD diagnosis. Katrin opens up about what it was like growing up in a highly creative homeschool family, her time in ministry, and how that shaped her view on faith, parenting, and education. We talk about the challenges of re-evaluating childhood beliefs, raising independent kids, and the real-life mental load that comes with being a mom. Whether you were homeschooled, are a parent considering education options, or someone who just loves a good reflective convo—this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

• What it’s like reconnecting after years apart—and how much life changes

• The ups and downs of growing up homeschooled in a creative, flexible environment

• Navigating an ADHD diagnosis as an adult and learning to work with your brain, not against it

• How motherhood shapes your view of your own upbringing and education choices