The Happy Homeschooler Podcast

Transcript Maker

The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a digital support group for everyone interested in a learning lifestyle. Join us the second and fourth Friday of each month as our hosts Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones discuss topics like the benefits of homeschooling, finding the right curriculum for you, navigating the line between parent and teacher, and more!

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190 episodes
Updated Friday

Episodes190

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Friday · 52 min
190: Life After Homeschooling
Life after homeschooling is closer than ever for Holly and Jennifer, and in this episode they're reflecting on what comes next! With both hosts in the home stretch of their homeschooling journeys, this conversation is a heartfelt and practical look at what homeschooling parents can expect when the last child graduates. From rediscovering your identity outside of homeschooling to finding new purpose and community, this episode is for every parent who has ever wondered what life on the other side looks like! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
July 24 · 43 min
189: Try New Homeschooling Styles This Summer
Why should you try new homeschooling styles this summer? Because summer is the perfect low-stakes season to experiment, explore, and find what works best for your family! Holly and Jennifer dig into why the slower pace of summer makes it an ideal time to step outside your usual homeschooling routine and test drive some new approaches. From relaxed unschooling experiments to project-based learning and everything in between, this episode is full of inspiration for making the most of your summer homeschool season! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
July 11 · 44 min
188: Teaching Math As An Unschooler
Teaching math as an unschooler might seem like a contradiction at first, but Holly and Jennifer are here to show you it doesn't have to be! In this episode, they explore how families who follow an unschooling philosophy can approach math in a way that feels natural, meaningful, and rooted in everyday life. Whether you're a seasoned unschooler or just curious about what a less structured approach to math might look like, this episode offers plenty of food for thought! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
June 26 · 35 min
187: Using Your Local Library To Support Your Homeschool
Using your local library to support your homeschool can be a time saver and stress eraser, and Holly and Jennifer are here to show you how! In this episode, they dig into the many ways homeschooling families can take advantage of this free and often overlooked resource. From borrowing books and educational materials to programs, events, and services specifically designed for kids and families, your library might just become one of your favorite homeschooling tools! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
June 12 · 45 min
186: How To Create School Events For Your Homeschool
One of the questions homeschooling families often ask is how to create school events for your homeschool, and Holly and Jennifer are here to show you it's more doable than you might think! From Valentine's Day parties and open houses to prom and sports days, traditional school events can absolutely have a place in your homeschool life. Tune in as Holly and Jennifer share practical ideas for bringing these beloved traditions into your home education experience and making memories your kids will cherish for years to come! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
May 29 · 46 min
185: Funny Things About Homeschooling
Get ready to laugh, because this episode is all about the funny things about homeschooling! Holly and Jennifer share some of their favorite hilarious moments from their years of homeschooling their kids. If you've ever had a lesson go completely sideways or said something as a homeschool parent that you never imagined you'd hear yourself say, you'll feel right at home here. Sit back, relax, and enjoy! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
May 22 · 31 min
184: How To Get Involved In Your Homeschool Community
If you've ever wondered how to get involved with your homeschool community, this episode is your guide! Holly and Jennifer explore some of the best ways to find your people, from joining local homeschool Facebook groups and attending park days to tapping into the resources your local library has to offer. Community is out there waiting for you, and sometimes you just need to know where to look! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! Texas Homeschool Expo Find Your Local Homeschool Convention Local Library Finder Find Your Y The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
May 8 · 48 min
183: The Top 10 Reasons To Homeschool
In this episode, we break down the top 10 reasons to homeschool. From flexible schedules and personalized learning to stronger family connections and real-world education. Whether you’re homeschooling already or just exploring the idea, this conversation offers practical insights, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on education outside the traditional classroom. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
April 24 · 1 hr 7 min
182: How To Teach Current Events (w/ Emily Glankler of Anti-Social Studies)
It can be challenging figuring out how to teach current events. They can be stressful, controversial, or just plain confusing. Never fear! Today, we sit down with Emily Glankler of Anti-Social Studies to discuss history, current events, and all the ways they're two sides of the same coin. Whether you're a new homeschooler or an old pro, this episodes is chock full of great tips for teaching current events! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! Emily's Website Follow Emily on Instagram! Check out Emily's Youtube Channel Emily's US History Course: Online, Curriculum PDFs Emily's Historical Traveling Society The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
April 10 · 52 min
181: Book Club: The Teenage Liberation Handbook
Today, we review our latest homeschool book club selection: The Teenage Liberation Handbook, by Grace Llewellyn. Learn all about the ways your teenager can build their independence to secure their future! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! Buy The Teenage Liberation Handbook, by Grace Llewellyn on Amazon The above is an Amazon affiliate link, should you click through and make a purchase, a small amount of money will go to us at no extra cost to you. The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
March 29 · 39 min
180: We Went To The Texas Homeschool Expo!
Today, our hosts tell you all about their experiences hosting a panel at the Texas Homeschool Expo. And then, we discuss some concerning homeschool news out of New England. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
March 13 · 53 min
179: How To Plan A School Year
Whether you're brand new or a longtime homeschooler, everyone wonders how to plan a school year. It can be daunting to get all your ducks in a row, but we've got two experienced homeschooling moms who are ready to give you all the tips you need to make sure your year of homeschooling goes off without a hitch! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
February 20 · 52 min
178: Grading Doesn't Have To Be Hard!
Grading your students can seem intimidating, but grading doesn't have to be hard! Today, we discuss different ways to assess your students, what challenges there are for homeschoolers, and how you can make sure that grading your students doesn't raise your blood pressure! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
February 13 · 54 min
177: SEA Homeschoolers (w/ Blair Lee)
Today we're joined by the founder of SEA Homeschoolers Blair Lee, to discuss her secular homeschooling organization. Tune in to learn all the ins and outs of the wide world of secular homeschooling! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! How To Handle Tough Conversations with Your Kids SEA Homeschoolers The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
January 30 · 1 hr 4 min
176: All About Outschool
Are you ready to learn all about Outschool? In this episode, we’re joined by Felecia Woods, an experienced teacher with Outschool, to talk about what online learning can look like when it’s engaging, flexible, and student-centered. Felecia shares insight into teaching in a virtual classroom, how Outschool supports diverse learners, and ways homeschooling families can use online classes to supplement and enrich their homeschool. Whether you’re curious about Outschool or already using it, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at how online learning can work alongside your homeschool goals. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The official Outschool website! Felecia's Montessori and More Outschool Page! Montessori and More Online! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
January 23 · 1 hr 5 min
175: Making The Texas Homeschool Expo
In this episode, we sit down with Jasmine Lee, founder of the Texas Homeschool Expo, for an inside look at one of the largest homeschool events in the state. Jasmine shares what inspired her to create the Expo, how it serves homeschooling families, and what parents can expect when they attend. From connecting with curriculum providers and local resources to building community and confidence, this conversation highlights how homeschool expos can support and encourage families at every stage of their journey. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! Texas Homeschool Expo Website New Braunfels Facebook Page Dallas/Fort Worth Facebook Page The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
January 9 · 1 hr 5 min
174: How To Homeschool Without Going Broke
People are always asking how to homeschool without going broke, and in this episode, we break down practical, realistic ways to keep costs under control without sacrificing a quality education. From choosing budget-friendly curricula and using free community resources to sharing materials, rethinking schedules, and prioritizing what truly matters, we explore how homeschooling can be flexible, affordable, and sustainable for families at every stage. Whether you’re just starting out or trying to rein in rising expenses, this episode offers encouragement and actionable ideas to help you homeschool with confidence and without the financial stress. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
Dec 26, 2025 · 52 min
173: A Look Back At 2025
Today, we take a look back at 2025 and reflect on the past year both behind the mic and beyond it. From personal milestones and challenges to the growth, changes, and favorite moments of The Happy Homeschooler Podcast, this episode is a candid look at where we’ve been and how the journey has shaped us. Join us for an honest, heartfelt conversation about lessons learned, gratitude, and the community that made 2025 a year worth remembering. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
Dec 12, 2025 · 1 hr 17 min
172: What To Do When Your Homeschooling Feels Stuck (w/ Leslie M. Martino)
Today, we sit down with author Leslie M. Martino to discuss what to do when your homeschooling feels stuck. Learn all about about breaking through homeschool burnout and finding your momentum again. Leslie shares insights from her own experience as both a homeschooling parent and writer, offering gentle guidance for recognizing when things aren’t working, understanding the root causes, and taking meaningful steps toward a refreshed learning environment. From small mindset shifts to simple daily practices, this episode is filled with reassuring wisdom to help you regain clarity, confidence, and joy in your homeschool. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! Visit Leslie's Website! Buy The Joy of Slow, by Leslie M. Martino on Amazon As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through the Amazon links in these show notes. This does not affect your price or our recommendations. The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
Nov 28, 2025 · 44 min
171: The Top Homeschooling Trends For 2026
Today, we're looking at the top homeschooling trends of 2026. We'll be looking ahead to the ideas, tools, and approaches shaping the future of home education. From AI tools to project based learning, we break down what parents can expect in the coming year. Whether you’re planning your first homeschool semester or refining a long-standing routine, this episode offers insight and inspiration to help you stay ahead of the curve and make 2026 your most confident homeschooling year yet. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram! 055: What Is Gameschooling? 123: Project-Based Homeschooling 134: Homeschooling with Technology (w/ Meryl van der Merwe) The Happy Homeschooler Podcast is a Transcript Maker Production. It is hosted by Holly Williams Urbach and Jennifer Jones, produced by Matthew Bass, and edited by Norah Williams. Our logo is by Norah Williams and our music is by The Great Pangolin. If you liked this episode, and you’d like to help us grow, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!