The Colorado Homeschool Podcast

I Wanted My “Me Time” Back—Then God Completely Changed My Mind About Homeschooling

Ever wonder if your desire for a little “me time” is at odds with your calling as a homeschool parent? In this heartfelt episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast—titled “I Wanted My ‘Me Time’ Back—Then God Completely Changed My Mind About Homeschooling”—host Kashia Davis sits down with Alexis Krutsch, a seasoned homeschool mom of five and the vibrant leader of the ABC Homeschool Support Group in the Arvada/Wheat Ridge area.
Alexis’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—she started as a reluctant homeschooler, with her kids nearly enrolled in a private school, and now mentors countless families as a support group leader. With almost five years of homeschool experience and a unique family story (three children “from her heart” through adoption and two by birth), Alexis brings a wealth of practical insight and encouragement. She openly shares real struggles—like dealing with discouragement, battling comparison, and craving “me time”—and reveals how her perspective radically shifted, leading her to unexpected joy, deeper relationships, and spiritual growth through homeschooling.
Listen in for actionable strategies to avoid burnout, find God-centered rest, and embrace your unique calling, plus reassuring reminders that you are indeed your child’s best teacher. You’ll walk away with empowering truths, relatable stories, and renewed confidence for your homeschool journey.
If you’re a homeschool parent seeking encouragement, practical tips, or simply some company along the way, you won’t want to miss this episode! Subscribe now to The Colorado Homeschool Podcast—your go-to source for support, inspiration, and resources tailored to Christian homeschoolers. Share this with a friend who needs a boost, and join us as we encourage one another to run the race with joy!
The Colorado Homeschool podcast is a ministry of Christian Home Educators of Colorado. We have been motivating parents to disciple the next generation by embracing home discipleship that is Christ centered, parent directed, and free from government control. We invite you to join us in this mission. If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
If you want to support homeschooling in Colorado go to CHEC.org/donate. Thank you! Brought to you by ThePodcastUpload.com Empowering Faith Driven Voices.
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call 

How to Homeschool Through Grief and Overwhelm: Insights from Brandee Gillham

Have you ever wondered how to keep homeschooling going when life feels overwhelming, or when grief rocks your world? In this heartfelt episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast, “How to Homeschool Through Grief and Overwhelm: Insights from Brandee Gillham,” host Kashia Davis sits down with Brandee Gillham—a fourth-generation rancher, former collegiate anatomy instructor, homeschool mom of four boys (one of whom is in heaven), and the Rocky Mountain Homeschool Conference coordinator.
Brandee opens up about her journey from teaching college anatomy to embracing the beauty (and chaos) of homeschooling on her family’s generational cattle ranch, all while navigating seasons of personal loss and unexpected hardship. Listen as she shares practical, faith-centered strategies for coping with overwhelm, balancing routines with flexibility, and integrating family discipleship into the homeschool day. With stories of resilience, real-life tips on handling grief in homeschooling, and wisdom gained from walking through cancer, loss, and everyday parenting challenges, Brandee brings both encouragement and actionable advice for homeschool families in all seasons.
Whether you’re feeling burnt out, facing major trials, or simply wondering how to create a Christ-centered home environment, this episode will inspire you to invest in your children intentionally—even when circumstances feel impossible.
Don’t miss the encouragement and insights you need for your own homeschooling journey! Subscribe now to The Colorado Homeschool Podcast and take your next step with confidence and community.
The Colorado Homeschool podcast is a ministry of Christian Home Educators of Colorado. We have been motivating parents to disciple the next generation by embracing home discipleship that is Christ centered, parent directed, and free from government control. We invite you to join us in this mission. If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
If you want to support homeschooling in Colorado go to CHEC.org/donate. Thank you! Brought to you by ThePodcastUpload.com Empowering Faith Driven Voices.
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call

8 Kids, NICU Twins, and Still at Peace—Heather Cofer’s Countercultural Homeschool Life

Ever wondered how it's possible to homeschool a large family, weather unexpected challenges, and still keep peace at the center of your home? In this episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast titled "8 Kids, NICU Twins, and Still at Peace—Heather Cofer’s Countercultural Homeschool Life," host Kashia Davis welcomes author, speaker, and second-generation homeschool mom Heather Cofer.
Heather brings a wealth of experience as an author for Set Apart Girl magazine and the writer behind two devotional books, including Meditations from the Laundry Basket. Married for 14 years and mother to eight wonderful children—including newborn twins in the NICU—Heather is passionate about Christ-centered parenting and learning alongside her kids. Her story is especially powerful as she navigates a countercultural approach to family life and education, shaped by her own upbringing and deep faith.
Tune in to discover:
The heart behind raising a large family and why embracing God’s values transforms the homeschool journey.
Actionable strategies for cultivating peace in the chaos, including how to model repentance, gratitude, and trust even when things go off-script.
Encouragement for both new and seasoned homeschoolers on persevering with purpose, no matter your family size.
Inspiring stories from the NICU and how living for God’s glory becomes a testimony to those around you.
Whether you feel overwhelmed in the everyday or are looking for fresh perspective on thriving in your calling, Heather’s wisdom and authenticity will uplift and equip you.
Don’t miss this episode—subscribe now to The Colorado Homeschool Podcast for more real stories, practical tips, and encouragement on your homeschooling journey!
The Colorado Homeschool podcast is a ministry of Christian Home Educators of Colorado. We have been motivating parents to disciple the next generation by embracing home discipleship that is Christ centered, parent directed, and free from government control. We invite you to join us in this mission. If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
If you want to support homeschooling in Colorado, go to CHEC.org/donate. Thank you! Brought to you by ThePodcastUpload.com Empowering Faith Driven Voices.
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call

Unpacking Unique Learners: Homeschool Tips that Work

Are you homeschooling a child who thinks—and learns—a bit differently? Whether your learner is gifted, struggles with learning challenges, or you simply feel like the traditional approach isn’t working, there’s a path forward! In this episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast, "Unpacking Unique Learners: Homeschool Tips that Work," host Kashia Davis sits down with Shari McMinn—author, seasoned homeschool mom of nine, adoption advocate, and Unique Learners blog writer for CHEC.
Shari brings decades of firsthand experience homeschooling a diverse family that includes both biological and adopted children, some of whom faced significant trauma and learning challenges. She also serves on the board of SPED Homeschool and contributes to multiple resources supporting unique learners. Through her practical wisdom and heartfelt stories, Shari shares what it’s really like to homeschool unique learners—and how to thrive as a family in the process.
Tune in to discover:
How to nurture strong relationships at the heart of your homeschool
Strategies for managing structure and flexibility with diverse learning needs
Tips for creating a peaceful, productive home environment—even amidst chaos
Insights on holistic approaches, from nutrition to daily routines
Encouragement for parents feeling overwhelmed, including Shari’s top resources and support communities
Whether you’re just starting out or feeling stuck, this episode offers actionable strategies and real-life inspiration you won’t want to miss.
Don’t miss a single episode that can help you and your family flourish—subscribe to The Colorado Homeschool Podcast today and join a community committed to Christ-centered, parent-directed, thriving homeschooling!
The Colorado Homeschool podcast is a ministry of Christian Home Educators of Colorado. We have been motivating parents to disciple the next generation by embracing home discipleship that is Christ centered, parent directed, and free from government control. We invite you to join us in this mission. If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
If you want to support homeschooling in Colorado go to CHEC.org/donate. Thank you! Brought to you by ThePodcastUpload.com Empowering Faith Driven Voices.
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call 

Homeschool Styles Unpacked: Real Moms Sharing their journey

Have you ever wondered if there’s a “right” way to homeschool—or if it’s possible to blend different teaching styles to fit your unique family? In this episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast, “Homeschool Styles Unpacked: Real Moms Sharing Their Journey,” host Kashia Davis sits down with three passionate homeschool mentors to break down popular methods, share personal stories, and deliver real-life strategies you can use today.
Meet our panel of inspiring guests:
Linda Kidder: With three college graduates and years of experience leading homeschool groups, Linda unpacks the creative world of unit studies and the freedom of crafting child-centered curriculum.
Tiffany Taylor: A classical education enthusiast, English literature major, and longtime leader with Classical Conversations, Tiffany helps families understand the history, beauty, and flexibility of the classical approach.
Yvonne Strachan: Sixteen years into homeschooling five children (and now running a church-based homeschool group), Yvonne’s wisdom on structure, textbooks, and faith integration offers practical encouragement for every parent’s journey.
Together, these moms tackle the strengths and challenges of unit studies, classical, and textbook-based education—highlighting how every family’s approach can (and does) look different, even year to year or child to child. You’ll walk away with:
Honest stories of struggles, pivots, and learning through life’s messy seasons
Actionable advice on customizing your teaching to your kids’ strengths
Reassurance that you’re never “behind”—and the confidence to drop what isn’t working
Concrete steps for finding supportive homeschool community in Colorado
Whether you’re brand new to homeschooling or a seasoned parent feeling stuck, you’ll find fresh inspiration and practical tips to help your family thrive.
Don’t miss out—subscribe now to The Colorado Homeschool Podcast for more heartfelt encouragement, expert advice, and empowering stories to support you in your homeschool adventure! And be sure to check the show notes for guest bios and links to homeschool resources.
The Colorado Homeschool podcast is a ministry of Christian Home Educators of Colorado. We have been motivating parents to disciple the next generation by embracing home discipleship that is Christ centered, parent directed, and free from government control. We invite you to join us in this mission. If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
If you want to support homeschooling in Colorado go to CHEC.org/donate. Thank you! Brought to you by ThePodcastUpload.com Empowering Faith Driven Voices.
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call 

Live from the Rocky Mountain Homeschool Conference, answering questions from the attendees.

Are you wondering how real homeschool families overcome challenges, find support, and stay inspired on their journey? In this special episode, “Live from the Rocky Mountain Homeschool Conference, answering your questions!”, host Kashia Davis brings you straight to the heart of Colorado’s vibrant homeschooling community.
Recorded live at the Rocky Mountain Homeschool Conference, this episode features exclusive interviews with passionate and experienced homeschool leaders and parents, including:
Corey Scott (letswonder.org | fourfringes.org): Veteran homeschool dad and co-founder of Wonder—an arts and enrichment homeschool program—and Four Fringes, a ministry dedicated to supporting homeschool groups and protecting religious freedom.
Thaine Norris (walkingtogether.press): Homeschool dad and founder of Walking Together Press, a publisher supplying Christian books to communities in Africa and advocating for character-focused education.
Eryn Lynum (erynlynum.com/nattheo): Host of the Nat Theo podcast, combining faith and science for nature-based, hands-on learning rooted in biblical truth.
Ted Jones, Marketing Director, CHEC (chec.org): Dedicated homeschool dad of seven and an active leader in Colorado’s Christian home education community.
Andrea Black (chuckblack.com): Homeschool mom of six, grandmother, and wife of Chuck Black (author of The Kingdom Series), with deep experience in family unity and academic excellence.
Rebecca Keller & Juli Noce, Board of Directors, Bridging the Gaps Dyslexia Center (bridgingthegapsdyslexiacenter.com): Veteran homeschool moms specializing in supporting families navigating reading challenges and dyslexia.
You’ll hear real solutions and encouragement as these guests address your most pressing questions: How can you fund homeschooling without compromising your values? What does hands-on, faith-based learning look like in practice? How do you balance housework and school, nurture character, and keep your family’s “why” at the center?
Discover actionable tips, inspiring success stories, and practical strategies from leaders who’ve walked the journey and are passionate about helping homeschool families succeed. Whether you’re new or seasoned, you’ll find valuable insights to support your own homeschool adventure.
Don’t miss this community-packed, wisdom-filled episode! Subscribe to The Colorado Homeschool Podcast now so you never miss an episode full of resources, inspiration, and support for your homeschooling family.
The Colorado Homeschool podcast is a ministry of Christian Home Educators of Colorado. We have been motivating parents to disciple the next generation by embracing home discipleship that is Christ centered, parent directed, and free from government control. We invite you to join us in this mission. If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
If you want to support homeschooling in Colorado go to CHEC.org/donate. Thank you! Brought to you by ThePodcastUpload.com Empowering Faith Driven Voices.
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call

Homeschool Freedoms: Lessons from a Pioneer Mom, Barbara West

Have you ever wondered what it takes to pioneer enormous change in homeschooling freedoms—and what lessons current families can draw from those trailblazers? In this episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast, Homeschool Freedoms: Lessons from a Pioneer Mom, Barbara West, host Kashia Davis sits down with Barbara West, a true homeschooling pioneer whose decades of experience span multiple states, military life, and international moves.
Barbara West, along with her husband Bruce, began homeschooling in the early years of the modern homeschool movement—when it was barely legal and certainly misunderstood. Known for her leadership in creating vibrant homeschooling communities (including the popular Facebook group Homeschooling Colorado and the Colorado Springs Homeschool Sports League), Barbara brings wisdom earned from homeschooling five children (three adopted, some with learning differences), advocating for homeschool freedoms across state lines, and fighting for legislative change—often behind the scenes and always with faith-fueled courage.
Tune in for actionable strategies to:
Build confidence as a homeschool parent and advocate for your family
Find encouragement amid doubt or criticism
Embrace flexibility and trust in your child's unique learning path
Understand why community and political engagement matter for lasting educational freedom
Plus, you'll be inspired by Barbara's stories—like the time she single-handedly helped eliminate unconstitutional home visits for homeschoolers in South Dakota, and how she’s learned through trial, error, and faith to let go of perfection.
If you’re a homeschool parent looking for practical tips, heartfelt encouragement, and a glimpse into the history and heart that sustains our freedoms today, this episode is for you.
Be sure to subscribe to The Colorado Homeschool Podcast so you never miss moments of wisdom, support, and stories that remind you: one person (like you!) really can make a difference. Listen now and join a community committed to Christ-centered, parent-directed home education!
Links: 
https://ghex.world/
https://www.cshsl.org/
 
The Colorado Homeschool podcast is a ministry of Christian Home Educators of Colorado. We have been motivating parents to disciple the next generation by embracing home discipleship that is Christ centered, parent directed, and free from government control. We invite you to join us in this mission. If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
If you want to support homeschooling in Colorado go to CHEC.org/donate.
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call 

Defending Homeschool Freedom: Insights from Colleen Enos

Are you aware of just how much is happening at your state Capitol—and how it could impact your freedom as a homeschool parent? In this episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast, “Defending Homeschool Freedom: Insights from Colleen Enos,” we sit down with Colleen Enos, CHEC’s new Director of Government Relations, to uncover why vigilant advocacy matters more than ever for Colorado homeschoolers.
 
Colleen brings three decades of homeschool wisdom, having begun her own journey in 1994 and recently graduated her youngest twins in 2024. As a mother of eight, grandmother of four (so far!), and seasoned coach of Christian homeschool speech and debate for 17 years, Colleen is dedicated to equipping the next generation to influence culture for Christ. Now serving at the Colorado Capitol, she’s on the front lines, representing CHEC and defending homeschool freedom and parental rights.
 
Tune in as Colleen shares:
 
Eye-opening stories about the powerful impact homeschool families have made at the Capitol.
Practical strategies for connecting with your legislators—without feeling overwhelmed.
Encouragement for parents hesitant to engage in political issues, and why our voice matters on moral bills.
Inspiring ways you can empower your children to be salt and light in today’s world.
 
Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, you’ll come away with actionable steps and renewed confidence in your role as a parent and advocate.
 
Don’t miss this vital episode! Subscribe to The Colorado Homeschool Podcast to stay informed, encouraged, and equipped to defend your family’s freedom. Share with a fellow homeschool parent—together, we can make a difference!
The Colorado Homeschool podcast is a ministry of Christian Home Educators of Colorado. We have been motivating parents to disciple the next generation by embracing home discipleship that is Christ centered, parent directed, and free from government control. We invite you to join us in this mission. If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
If you want to support homeschooling in Colorado go to CHEC.org/donate. Thank you! Brought to you by ThePodcastUpload.com Empowering Faith Driven Voices.
 
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call 

From Courtrooms to Classrooms: A Family’s Homeschool Story with Lisa Eldrick

What would you do if your family’s faith and business beliefs suddenly landed you in the national spotlight—and a courtroom battle—and you still had to homeschool your children through it all?
In this episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast, “From Courtrooms to Classrooms: A Family’s Homeschool Story,” host Kashia Davis sits down with Lisa Eldrick, a second-generation homeschool mom whose story is as courageous as it is inspiring. As the daughter of Jack Phillips, owner of Masterpiece Cake Shop, Lisa’s family has navigated more than a decade of high-profile legal battles—all while running a family bakery and homeschooling her three daughters as a single mom.
Lisa shares her unique perspective on raising resilient, faith-filled children in the face of public scrutiny and real-world persecution. You’ll hear firsthand how her family’s convictions shaped their homeschooling journey, why community and authentic faith matter more than ever, and how to shepherd your own children through tough seasons. Lisa opens up about the practical ways she comforted her kids during trials, the powerful legacy of faith her parents modeled, and the simple, actionable strategies any homeschool parent can use to build a strong, Christ-centered family culture—even in the toughest of times.
Whether you’re a veteran homeschooler or just getting started, this episode offers a treasure trove of encouragement, real-life wisdom, and the reminder that you’re not alone—even when the journey gets hard.
If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
 
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call 

The Man Year: Rite of Passage for Homeschool Boys with Ashley Utile

What does it really take to raise boys into men of character in today’s world? In this episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast, we dive deep into “The Man Year: Rite of Passage for Homeschool Boys” with special guest Ashley Utile. Married for 17 years and in ministry together for 19, Ashley and her husband Kevin have homeschooled their five kids—spanning from elementary to high school—through every season of life. Their journey is filled with practical wisdom on balancing academics with real-world experiences, all while intentionally discipling their kids for the future.
Tune in as Ashley shares the story behind the “Man Year,” a unique, year-long rite of passage that has transformed her sons’ lives—covering spiritual, relational, physical, financial, and personal growth. You’ll hear inspiring stories from their family, honest advice about cultivating godly character, creative ways to partner with your spouse (or take the lead solo!), and actionable strategies you can personalize for your own family—whether you’re new to homeschooling or a seasoned veteran.
If you want to be encouraged, equipped, and inspired in your own homeschooling and parenting journey, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t miss out on these practical tips and fresh ideas that will help you walk out your “why” with confidence.
If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!
 
This podcast is powered by The Podcast Upload. Want to start your own? Book a free call: https://www.thepodcastupload.com/discovery-call