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Ever wondered what the real difference is between "homeschooling" and "home education," and why making that distinction could completely transform your family's learning experience? In this inspiring episode of the Show Me Homeschool Podcast, Erin sits down with Carrie De Francisco—author, podcaster, coach, and seasoned homeschool mom—to dive deep into simplifying home education. Together, they tackle the exhaustion and overwhelm that many parents face, unpacking practical steps to shift from a rigid school-at-home mentality to embracing a more flexible, life-giving approach to learning.

Throughout the conversation, Carrie De Francisco shares insights from her latest book, including her nine essential questions for a meaningful day, honest advice about educational gaps, and ways to tailor learning to fit your unique family. Whether you're new to homeschooling, feeling stuck, or just searching for encouragement to keep going, this episode is packed with wisdom, grace, and actionable strategies. Show Me Homeschool is your go-to resource for guidance and fresh perspective—reminding you that you are not alone, and that a fulfilling, connected home education is within reach.

RESOURCES AND LINKS

Books by Carrie De Francisco

• Just Breathe and Take a Sip of Coffee: Homeschool Simply and Enjoyably
• Homeschool High School: A Handbook for Christian Education
• A Home Education Handbook (New book, released January 31st)

Podcast: Coffee with Carrie Homeschool Podcast, find it wherever you listen to podcasts. New episodes drop every Thursday.

Website: Coffee With Carrie, coffeewithcarrie.org

Social Media

• Instagram:
  @coffeewithcarrieconsulting
• TikTok:
  Find her “Cook and Chat” reels, where Carrie De Francisco answers homeschool questions while cooking.

Carrie De Francisco is also a contributor to the Wild + Free homeschool community.

Connect with Erin & Joe at Show Me Homeschool:

• Show Me Homeschool Website
• On Instagram, @show.me.homeschool
• On X, @ShowMeHomeSch
• On Pinterest, @showmehomeschool

Be sure to leave a rating and review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode! For questions or comments email us: info@showmehomeschool.com

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How can homeschooling parents harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to make their homeschool journeys more efficient, creative, and manageable? In this episode of Show Me Homeschool, host Erin is joined by longtime homeschooling leader and event planner Nancy Manos, who brings 20+ years of experience encouraging home-educating families. Nancy shares practical insights into how busy homeschool parents—and even their students—can utilize AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude to help brainstorm lesson plans, summarize information, automate tasks, and even solve everyday household challenges like meal planning and organization.

Throughout the conversation, Erin and Nancy dive into thoughtful discussion around the ethical use of AI, the importance of a strong foundation in critical thinking and biblical truth, and ways to ensure these technological tools are used wisely in home education. Nancy emphasizes how AI can serve as a productivity booster without diminishing the value of real books, hands-on activities, and authentic learning experiences.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• nancymanos.com – Nancy Manos’ website, including her blog and free homeschool resources.
• Nancy Manos on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
• ChatGPT – AI chatbot tool referenced for brainstorming, summarizing, and lesson planning.
• Claude – AI tool mentioned for its user-friendly summarization and brainstorming capabilities.
• Grok – Another AI chatbot discussed as a potentially helpful homeschool tool.
• Social Media Marketing World – Learn more about the conference and its AI-focused sessions.
• AI Business Society – Resource for learning about AI in business contexts, as referenced by Nancy.
• Midjourney – AI image-generation tool briefly mentioned in the discussion.

Connect with Erin & Joe at Show Me Homeschool:

• Show Me Homeschool Website
• On Instagram, @show.me.homeschool
• On X, @ShowMeHomeSch
• On Pinterest, @showmehomeschool

Be sure to leave a rating and review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode! For questions or comments email us: info@showmehomeschool.com

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Are you a homeschool parent searching for genuine connection, encouragement, and practical resources to support your journey? In this episode of Show Me Homeschool, host Erin welcomes back Christina Carpenter—homeschool mom of four, founder of Authentic Joy in the Journey, and the visionary behind the Bloom and Blossom conference. Together, they dive deep into the heart behind Christina's mission to empower and inspire fellow homeschooling mothers, sharing how her conference has grown from a local event to an exciting new West Coast location. Christina opens up about building community, running a thriving conference, and the personal and family growth that comes from serving others.

Listeners will hear Christina’s journey from simply meeting a need in her local area to building a team that’s now taking Bloom and Blossom all the way to California. Hear insights about the unique, mom-centered focus of the conference, how her work has benefited her family and marriage, and practical encouragement for moms who feel lonely or overwhelmed. Whether you’re craving local connection or inspiration to step out and serve, this conversation is packed with motivation and wisdom for your homeschool adventure.

Resources & Links

• Christina Carpenter’s Website & Contact Form (sign up for updates and her newsletter)
• On Instagram: Authentic Joy in the Journey | Bloom and Blossom Conference
• On Facebook: Authentic Joy in the Journey | Bloom and Blossom
• Bloom and Blossom Conference: details, registration, and location info via Christina’s website
• Nature School by Laura Stroop
• Words Like Honey by Amy Hughes
• Carrie De Francisco ("Coffee with Carrie" podcast/collaborator)
• Greta Eskridge (speaker/panelist for CA event)
• Bloom and Blossom West Coast: October 10-11 in San Diego, CA

Connect with Erin & Joe at Show Me Homeschool:

• Show Me Homeschool Website
• On Instagram, @show.me.homeschool
• On X, @ShowMeHomeSch
• On Pinterest, @showmehomeschool

Be sure to leave a rating and review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode! For questions or comments email us: info@showmehomeschool.com