In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, it’s fair to question the value of students reading long-form books, which are at the heart of a liberal arts classical education. With so much content readily accessible, why do we still turn to these age-old texts, especially when the basic stories and facts are just a click away? Are these classic works still the best way to ground the next generation in God’s timeless truths while equipping them to navigate the complexities of the modern age?

Join us for a fascinating and enlightening discussion on the enduring relevance of these books in shaping wise and well-rounded individuals. The hosts of the Classical Stuff You Should Know podcast, A.J. Hanenburg and Graeme Donaldson, stop by to share their wisdom about bringing these timeless books to life for their students.
Listen to Classical Stuff You Should Know at: https://www.classicalstuff.net/

As parents and educators, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily hustle and bustle of our own families, schools, and communities, often missing the incredible stories of what God is doing around the world. Today, we want to take you on a journey to one of the most exciting areas of school and spiritual growth happening on the continent of Africa.

We are thrilled to welcome back Karen Eliot, who will share the latest developments in Classical Christian Education, including the work and resources being created and deployed for schools and families in Africa—and for us as well. Get ready to be encouraged with good news as you join us for this episode, whether you’re listening from the US or anywhere else in the world. You won’t want to miss this episode of BaseCamp Live!

Have you ever noticed how asking the right question can spark incredible growth, deeper understanding, and engaging conversations? That’s the dream of every teacher and parent, but it’s not always easy! Jesus certainly knew the power of a well-placed question, often using them to challenge his listeners, provoke thought, and reveal deeper truths.
Imagine using the same strategy to awaken meaningful conversations with your children, even in the back of the minivan on the ride home from school. So, what makes for a good and effective question, whether in the classroom or at a family meal?

Imagine it’s 1927, and you’re flipping through a National Geographic magazine. On the back cover, a full-page ad invites you to join the Book of the Month Club, promising to send you a different great book each month. The tagline reads, “Relive the books that charmed you in your youth.”
Fast forward 100 years, and what charmed most of us in our youth likely wasn’t one of those great books that shaped Western thought and culture. Today, many Americans don’t read regularly, and even fewer delve into the timeless classics that answer so many of life’s basic questions.
But it’s never too late to start. Reading isn’t just critical for our students; it’s equally important for us as adults. So why not rediscover the joy of reading? Join us for this episode of BCL, where we explore the timeless value of great literature and how it can still enrich our lives today with special guest Cherie Harder, who has helped facilitate this for so many people.

Many of us remember history as a school subject filled with long lists of dates and random facts to memorize. However, classical education offers a different approach, treating history as a living conversation with the great minds whose ideas have spanned the centuries. It’s about bringing to life the stories of real people, heroes, and heroines, whose tales inspire us in our historic moments.

Our guest today, classical educator Sam Cox, shares his journey of bringing history alive in the classroom. He has retraced the steps of a group of Holocaust survivors, personally spending time with and interviewing them, and even inviting some to meet with his students. Their stories, though often heart-wrenching, demonstrate the triumph of the human spirit and the joys of lives well-lived in their new home in the United States.

Have you ever seen a young person struggling to get motivated, complaining about boredom, or seeming a bit lazy and apathetic? Or perhaps they’re the opposite, always busy, distracted, and jumping from one thing to the next throughout the day. This behavior is common in our modern world, but the ancients had a unique word for it: Acedia. Although this term has faded from our vocabulary, it’s worth rediscovering, as it helps us better understand this prevalent vice, especially challenging for teenagers. Fortunately, our guest Craig Hefner encouraging words and practical solutions to reframe this mindset in our homes and schools.

It is officially summer break! Instead of sitting in front of screens or combatting boredom, guest Keith McCurdy brings practical advice for making this an enriching and impactful summer that will leave parents at peace, in control, and excited to have time with their children.

If you spend time in classical Christian schools you’ll probably hear the phrase “the true, the good, and the beautiful.” These ideals represent the highest values and aspirations of humanity originating in Greek philosophy and found throughout the works of Plato- but what do they actually mean, and why do they matter today… beyond being an inspiring slogan or an ideal phrase to put on a wall hanging from Hobby Lobby? How do these concepts serve as a framework for raising the next generation and achieving full human flourishing? Listen to this episode with guest Junius Johnson to dive in.

Host Davies Owens is behind the mic for a candid discussion with his daughter about his unorthodox start in classical education, what challenges he sees facing the movement, and how his new mission is inspiring him like never before. They also share the history and future of this podcast as well as a huge announcement that will certainly excite parents, administrators, and school leaders alike.

Proverbs tells us that joy and laughter are good medicine for the soul, but the Bible also cautions us against foolish talk and crude joking. So what role should humor play in our classrooms, hallways, and homes?  It is especially challenging when so much of what is presented to us today in the world is humor that is often inappropriate and at someone else’s expense.  Join us for this episode of BCL with Comedian Sean Hancock who helps us find joy and laughter in what is true, good and beautiful.