Homeschooling Down South

Rebecca Farris

Rebecca Farris from The Well Planned Gal shares her deeply inspiring story—from helping legalize homeschooling in Tennessee to pioneering innovative tools like customizable digital planners and neurometrics-based curricula. She reveals how her personal journey led her to create resources that empower moms with structure, confidence, and an educational approach rooted in science. You’ll discover the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and homeschooling, and how understanding your child's brain wiring can eliminate frustration and transform relationships. Rebecca breaks down the groundbreaking Education Choice for Children Act, explaining how any taxpayer can redirect their taxes to support homeschooling—and what this means for families, teachers, and communities across the country. Rebecca explains the mechanics of the law, the opportunities it creates for financial freedom, and how you can access these funds.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by finances or wary of government involvement, this episode is your essential guide to understanding and leveraging upcoming education legislation that could save you thousands, give you unprecedented choice, and elevate your child's learning experience. Find out how to plug into the emerging opportunities to transform your homeschool experience—and maybe even the future of education in the United States. Don’t miss this chance to be at the forefront of a movement that puts power and choice back into your hands. Show Notes: Well Planned Day [https://wellplannedday.com/] Well Planned Education [https://wellplannededucation.org/] Well Planned Homeschooling [https://wellplannedhomeschooling.com/] Well Planned Gal [https://wellplannedgal.com/] Well Planned Family [https://wellplannedfamily.com/] Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life..And Maybe the World by Admiral William H. McRaven [https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/admiral-william-h-mcraven/make-your-bed/9781455570232/] Chuck Black’s The Kingdom Series [https://www.christianbook.com/kingdom-series-vols-1-6/chuck-black/pd/6823?utm_source=google&kw=&mt=&dv=c&event=PPCSRC&p=1229875&utm_medium=cpc&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=72148932&gbraid=0AAAAAD_dTHYtdGqUdtk7BYmJJbzB7GslO&gclid=Cj0KCQiAnJHMBhDAARIsABr7b86wt2dXWfmjL-DUYeKaVQIzc454mT7EiZLNQYIcHOMG6-25-GQtDvkaAlb-EALw_wcB] Visit us: Homeschooling Down South [https://www.homeschoolingdownsouth.com/] TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolingdownsouth] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolingdownsouth/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/people/Homeschooling-Down-South/61577566768276/] We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com [hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com] if you have any suggestions for episode topics. Theme Song: Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press [https://www.wildpicklepress.com/]

Land Between the Lakes

Explore one of America’s lesser-known nature spots, Land Between the Lakes, a sprawling natural wonder straddling Tennessee and Kentucky. It isn't just a scenic spot; it’s a hidden treasure trove of history, wildlife, and adventure waiting to be discovered—and you don’t want to miss out. In this episode, discover how Land Between the Lakes offers a unique blend of rustic outdoor fun, fascinating history, and family-friendly activities that won’t break the bank. You’ll hear firsthand details about the massive, water-surrounded landscape, from the serene Golden Pond hike to the intriguing historic farm at the Homeplace Working Farm. We break down the surprising ways to experience nature beyond the typical parks—think Department of Natural Resources sites, Forest Service properties, and off-the-beaten-path locations that are often overlooked yet rich with opportunity. Hear how Land Between the Lakes is perfect for a budget-friendly family adventure that caters to every interest.Listen for tips to make the most of your trip with homeschool resources, like free educational worksheets and engaging farm programs designed to bring history alive for young learners. We equip homeschool families with insider tips so get ready to expand your travel horizons, your adventure in Land Between the Lakes starts now. Show Notes: Land Between the Lakes [https://www.landbetweenthelakes.us/] Digital America the Beautiful Pass [https://www.recreation.gov/pass/] Physical America the Beautiful Pass [https://store.usgs.gov/recreational-passes] Visit us: Homeschooling Down South [https://www.homeschoolingdownsouth.com/] TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolingdownsouth] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolingdownsouth/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/people/Homeschooling-Down-South/61577566768276/] We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com [hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com] if you have any suggestions for episode topics. Theme Song: Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press [https://www.wildpicklepress.com/]

Chattanooga Audubon Society

Chattanooga Audubon Society helps homeschool families with living history and hands-on nature experiences revealing how programs like blacksmithing and rope making are transforming kids' learning and reviving their natural curiosity. In this episode, discover the unexpected ways this hidden gem cultivates skills, sparks wonder, and builds community, turning simple field trips into wonder. Sneak a behind-the-scenes look at how Chattanooga Audubon’s innovative homeschool day options have blossomed over five years. Jessica Whitehorn, Education Director, shares how the program's growth is driven by local artisans, community collaboration, and a mission to preserve vital trades before they disappear. We break down how these experiential activities foster not just knowledge, but confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love of nature and history. If you believe homeschooling isn’t just about textbooks and tests, this one is for you.  Show Notes: Chattanooga Audubon Society [https://www.chattanoogaaudubon.org/] Chattanooga Audubon Programs and Events [https://chattanoogaaudubon.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents] Chattanooga Audubon Field Trips [https://www.chattanoogaaudubon.org/fieldtrips.html] Chattanooga Audubon Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=chattanooga%20audubon%20society] Chattanooga Audubon Instagram page [https://www.instagram.com/chattaudubon/] Jessica’s email address: jwhitehorn@chattaudubon.org [jwhitehorn@chattaudubon.org] Refining Fire Forge [https://www.facebook.com/RefiningFireForge/] Visit us: Homeschooling Down South [https://www.homeschoolingdownsouth.com/] TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolingdownsouth] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolingdownsouth/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/people/Homeschooling-Down-South/61577566768276/] We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com [hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com] if you have any suggestions for episode topics. Theme Song: Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press [https://www.wildpicklepress.com/]

Sarah Pead Wild + Free

Sarah Pead is the Wild + Free group leader from West Georgia, known for her authentic leadership, love for community, and her passion for reclaiming childhood through homeschooling. Her journey from public school skeptic to community builder offers practical wisdom for any mom who wants to nurture her children’s wonder without losing herself. Most homeschooling moms feel overwhelmed balancing work and family—until they hear Sarah’s story of building a thriving community while running her own business. She reveals how Wild + Free helped her reclaim childhood and motherhood, all without sacrificing her passions or community. Discover how Sarah’s flexible, relationship-driven approach to homeschooling and leadership creates a life filled with adventure, connection, and purpose. Show Notes: Wild + Free [https://www.bewildandfree.org/about] The Call of the Wild + Free by Ainsley Arment [https://www.bewildandfree.org/book] Visit us: Homeschooling Down South [https://www.homeschoolingdownsouth.com/] TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolingdownsouth] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolingdownsouth/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/people/Homeschooling-Down-South/61577566768276/] We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com [hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com] if you have any suggestions for episode topics. Theme Song: Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press [https://www.wildpicklepress.com/]

Jessy Fagerstrom

Unlock the secret to transforming your homeschooling journey with Jessy Fagerstrom, leader of Gwinnett County’s Wild + Free group. Jessy shares her eclectic “Franken-School” approach, inspired by Charlotte Mason, unit studies, and faith, that allows her to tailor an educational experience aligned with her family’s values. You’ll uncover practical tips for creating flexible routines — like doing morning time in the afternoon or adapting activities based on your family’s unique rhythm. Jessy’s story of growth, resilience, and faith illustrates why community and authentic connections are the backbone of successful homeschooling. This episode is for anyone craving more freedom, outdoor-loving families, and anyone feeling stuck in the overwhelm. If you believe education should be joyful, personalized, and rooted, Jessy’s contagious enthusiasm will light the way. Show Notes: Jessy Fagerstrom [https://www.instagram.com/modern_missus_frizzle/]  Southeast Homeschool Expo [https://www.southeasthomeschoolexpo.com/] Wild + Free Gwinnett County [https://www.facebook.com/groups/wildandfreegwinnettcounty/] Wild + Free podcast [https://www.bewildandfree.org/podcast] The Call of the Wild + Free by Ainsley Arment [https://www.bewildandfree.org/book] Visit us: Homeschooling Down South [https://www.homeschoolingdownsouth.com/] TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolingdownsouth] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolingdownsouth/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/people/Homeschooling-Down-South/61577566768276/] We’d love to hear from you! You can email us at hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com [hello@homeschoolingdownsouth.com] if you have any suggestions for episode topics. Theme Song: Theme Song: Together by Sara Ernst, Wild Pickle Press [https://www.wildpicklepress.com/]