BaseCamp Live

What truly sets a classical Christian classroom apart? Curriculum matters, but as Mandi Gerth explains, it is not the only or even the primary driver of formation. A child is shaped day after day by the culture of the classroom, the small liturgies, the tone of the teacher, and the habits that govern transitions, conversations, and even how class begins and ends. Host Davies Owens talks with Mandi about her book Thoroughness and Charm: Cultivating the Habits of a Classical Classroom and about what it means for a teacher to be a “monarch” in the best sense, an authority who orders the room so that students can rest, attend, and delight in learning. They discuss the difference between entertainment and genuine engagement, how joy differs from “fun,” and why liturgy is such a powerful antidote to chaos in both school and home. Mandi also addresses the “3:01 p.m. problem,” naming how easy it is for phones, entertainment, and scattered schedules to undo the formation that happens during the school day. She shares simple habits any family can start, even in just a few minutes a day, to reinforce attention, conversation, and a shared story centered on Christ. 🎧 Tune in to hear: How classical classrooms focus on ideas and values , not just skills and information Why “sit and get” and sugary entertainment both fail to form students well What healthy, rightful authority looks like for teachers and why students need it How liturgies, songs, and repeated practices shape a classroom’s culture Practical ways parents can build small, realistic habits at home that support what is happening in class This episode is a hopeful invitation for teachers and parents who want more than busy classrooms and busy homes. It points toward an ordered, joyful life of learning where children know who they are, why they are there, and Whom they are made for. Resources Mentioned: Thoroughness & Charm | CiRCE Press Cultural Artifacts with Mandi Gerth | Podcast Study Guide for Thoroughness & Charm Liturgy Graphic Organizer for Teacher Planning Check out Wilson Hill Academy's Free Guide Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Smartphones have become the default for families, but what if the default is actually harmful? In this episode, Davies Owens talks with Chris Kaspar, founder and CEO of Techless, about why modern devices were never designed with children in mind and how parents can choose a healthier path. Chris shares the moment that opened his eyes as a foster parent and explains why families today feel trapped between two extremes. Either give kids full access to the digital world or reject technology altogether. He argues that both options miss the mark. The real issue is the design, incentives, and addictive features built into mainstream phones that quietly shape identity, attention, and spiritual formation. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why smartphones were never created for children The hidden harms built into everyday tech What a healthier, middle path looks like How families can transition with confidence Why kids actually crave limits and protection This conversation offers a compelling third way. Not hyperconnected and not Amish, but a thoughtful, intentional approach that meets basic communication needs without exposing kids to the dark side of digital life. Chris also shares why kids often want more boundaries than parents realize and how families can make sustainable changes together. Resources Mentioned: Wisephone Discount Techless Check out Wilson Hill Academy's Free Guide Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Senior thesis is the capstone of a classical Christian education, and Dr. Tom Vierra believes it may be one of the most countercultural things schools do today. In this episode, Davies Owens talks with Tom, longtime classical educator and Senior Thesis Coordinator at Wilson Hill Academy, about why thesis is far more than “just a big paper.” Tom shares his path from early days at Great Hearts to helping shape Wilson Hill’s senior thesis program, where students research a topic that matters, write a 12–15 page thesis-driven paper, and publicly defend it. Along the way, they learn self-management, deep research, biblical reasoning, and confident communication that carry far beyond college. Together they unpack the six-part classical rhetoric structure, including exordium, narratio, and refutatio, and why Wilson Hill requires students to write an antithesis paper arguing against their own position. This habit trains humility, civil discourse, and the ability to engage real counterarguments rather than living in an echo chamber. Tom also gives examples of standout thesis topics, from classical music and beauty to AI in medicine and political theory, and explains how schools can approve ambitious topics that still reflect a biblical worldview. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why senior thesis is the true capstone of classical Christian education How the six-part structure and antithesis train deeper thinking and discourse Ways to navigate AI while still forming original thinkers and speakers Practical encouragement for parents and schools walking through the thesis year Davies and Tom address the challenge of AI, why filters and detection tools are not enough, and how a live oral defense reveals whether students truly own their work. They also touch on Augustine’s “all truth is God’s truth” approach to pre-Christian thinkers like Aristotle and Cicero, and how their insights on persuasion, instruction, and delight can be used faithfully under Scripture. Tom closes with encouragement for parents who feel the weight of senior year and for educators who want to make thesis a core part of their school’s identity rather than an add-on requirement. Resources Mentioned: https://wilsonhillacademy.com/guide Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Classical learning has deep roots in the United Kingdom. Yet many schools in England, Scotland, and Wales have drifted toward child-led, utilitarian models that leave students unformed and unmoored. At the same time, a quiet renewal is beginning to take shape. In this episode, British educator Jamie Burns , founder of the Fellowship for Classical Learning , joins host Davies Owens to share how he rediscovered classical Christian education, why he believes it is the answer to the UK’s educational crisis, and how God is using a small group of families to start new schools in London and Cardiff. Jamie traces his own story, from an average state education to rich conversations around his family’s dinner table, through years in mainstream schools, and finally to an “aha” moment listening to Andrew Kern that gave him language for what he had always felt. Along the way he offers a clear, inside look at the current state of education in England, Scotland, and Wales, and the surprising ways classical ideas are resurfacing in policy, practice, and school life. 🎧 Tune in to hear: How Jamie grew up with a relativistic school education yet tasted something very different at home Why a simple question, “What is school for?”, revealed a stark contrast between UK schools and US classical schools How recent reforms in England embraced phonics and knowledge-rich curricula, while Wales and Scotland doubled down on child-led learning Why the pace and pressure of modern schooling can feel inhumane, even when test scores improve How the Fellowship for Classical Learning is launching two new schools, Fountain Christian School in London and St Anselm’s in Cardiff Why historic Christian schools in Britain often exist in name only, and why teacher character now matters more than ever Encouragement for parents who are counting the cost of choosing a different path for their children Hope for educators and school starters who feel underqualified, yet called, to stand in the classical Christian tradition Technology, politics, and culture may be shifting quickly, yet this conversation reminds us that God is at work in quiet and surprising ways. Listeners will come away with fresh vision for what schooling can be, a deeper sense of solidarity with believers in the UK, and renewed courage to pursue truth, goodness, and beauty in their own communities. Resources Mentioned: www.fellowshipforclassicallearning.co.uk www.stanselmscardiff.co.uk www.thefountainschool.london Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Parents often wonder if pushing through difficult books is worth the tears and late nights. In this episode, Davies Owens is joined by Sara Osborne, author of Reading for the Long Run , as she explains why classics feel hard, how to discern real obstacles from attitude or context, and practical steps to move forward with confidence. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why classics challenge modern readers, and why the challenge is good for minds and hearts How to make an honest assessment: simple journaling, patterns to watch, and assembling a “team of knowers” The start-small strategy: short, rich texts, repetition, paired audio, and building stamina like training for a race Respectful bridges for older students that avoid “babyish” materials, including short stories and thoughtful fables Tech, timing, and motivation: shaping habits that support deep reading at home and school The telos of reading: from “checking the box” to a lifelong love of truth, beauty, and goodness Weakness and formation: how pushing through hard things shapes character for students, parents, and classrooms With honest assessment, small wins, and steady practice, any family can grow a reading life that lasts. If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend, then try one simple step this week, such as a short story with paired audio or a five-minute read-aloud after dinner. Resources Mentioned: Reading for the Long Run Sara Osborne, author at Circe Institute Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Technology is changing faster than families can keep up. From social media to smartphones to the latest wave of AI “companions,” new tools are shaping how children think, connect, and even define friendship. In this episode, Chris McKenna , founder of Protect Young Eyes and a leading voice on digital safety, joins host Davies Owens to unpack what’s really happening and how parents and schools can respond with both truth and grace. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why AI “friends” appeal so powerfully to teens and what’s really going on in the developing brain How to recognize and respond to the risks of AI companions and mature content online The three kinds of families in the digital age and what each can do today Chris’s HALT framework for course-correcting unhealthy tech habits Why it’s time to “be weird together” as parents and schools who choose community over conformity Simple, real-life “micro moves” families can make to model authentic, human connection Technology may be accelerating, but parents are not powerless. Listeners will come away with a renewed sense of hope and concrete ways to model healthy technology use, foster real-world connection, and guide students toward wisdom in an increasingly digital world. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Can classical schools really prepare students for STEM careers? Many parents wonder if a humanities-rich education leaves room for science and technology. Our guest, Diane Gray, scientist, musician, contractor, tutor, and mother of seven, says yes . After 12 years in biotech R&D, Diane completed a master’s in Classical Studies to explore how classical Christian education and STEM can thrive together. In this conversation with host Davies Owens , Diane shares her research comparing STEM and classical models, revealing that the two are not in competition, but complementary . 🎧 Tune in to discover: Why the fear that classical schools shortchange STEM is understandable, but misplaced How classical education forms curious, adaptable thinkers who excel in science and technology Why ethics, history, and philosophy are essential companions to innovation, especially in the age of AI How classical tools of learning (language, logic, rhetoric) strengthen problem-solving, communication, and creativity in STEM fields Diane reminds us that the goal isn’t just to make scientists but whole humans who pursue truth and wisdom through their work. 🎧 Join us for this encouraging episode and see why classical formation might just be the best preparation for the modern lab. Resources Mentioned: Science Education in the Modern World - Diane’s full dissertation Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Davies Owens welcomes Ken Rhinehart, a commercial real-estate veteran and founder of VPA Classical, to demystify how classical schools can find, fund, and secure facilities that actually serve the mission. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why facilities shape formation. Leases, landlords, and leaking roofs quietly undermine learning—and enrollment confidence. Buy vs. lease—what’s wiser right now . Capital costs, lender track records, conditional-use permits, and the hidden time drain on administrators. Mission-aligned investors. How long-term, praying partners can acquire and rehab properties, then lease back to schools—sometimes with lease-to-own pathways. Church properties: promise & pitfalls. Beautiful sanctuaries can work— if governance, improvements, and expectations are clear. What not to do. Don’t hand this to the office admin or your residential-agent brother-in-law—commercial leasing is a different language. A generous freebie. Ken offers a no-cost lease review so schools actually know what’s in their agreements. If this episode sparks ideas, forward it to your head of school, board chair, or facilities lead. Rate and follow BaseCamp Live so other schools can find it, and tell us the #1 facilities question you want answered next. Resources Mentioned: RSVP Now for ADVANCE Retreat Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

We live in a culture of soundbites, but Christian parents and educators are called to form young people who listen well, think deeply, and speak with humility and grace . Host Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Justin Smith , Head of School at Little Rock Christian Academy and Herzog Foundation coach, to unpack the Harkness Method (a modern form of Socratic dialogue) and why it may be one of the most vital forms of discipleship in our time. In this conversation: Harkness vs. Socratic: what’s the same, what’s different, and how each keeps the text at the center rather than opinion. Truth matters: how Christ-centered schools avoid “bad talk radio” and anchor discussion in authorial intent, Scripture, and absolute truth . Formation over performance: why silence, restraint, and student discovery create stickier learning than efficient lectures. K–12 on-ramps: how Justin’s team trains 7th–12th graders in names, manners, eye contact, question stems, and textual evidence . Home practices: simple dinner-table question bowls , “ roses & thorns ,” and “ heaven & earth ” prompts that cultivate a household of inquiry. 🎧 Join Davies Owens and Jacob Hess as they unpack how to fill our homes and classrooms with better stories that train hearts to love what God loves. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation Schedule an introduction with Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

In this Best of BaseCamp Live flashback, host Davies Owens sits down with pastor, musician, and author Jacob Hess to explore how story, liturgy, and imagination shape the hearts of our children - and why the stories we tell matter now more than ever. 🎧 In this episode: Life is liturgy: how small, repeatable rituals - at dinner, in class, or before bed—tell the Gospel story. Formation over information: why habits shape what we love (Charlotte Mason; James K. A. Smith). Worship in every moment: practical ways to make the ordinary sacred using tools like Every Moment Holy. Why fiction matters: Jacob’s The Bright Abyss (think Star Wars meets Tolkien) as a case study in shaping imagination. A takeaway for this week: identify one small ritual that tells a better story—and practice it faithfully. 🎧 Join Davies Owens and Jacob Hess as they unpack how to fill our homes and classrooms with better stories that train hearts to love what God loves. Resources Mentioned: The Bright Abyss RSVP Now for ADVANCE Retreat Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

What does it mean to be a woman today? Our culture has turned this into a debate, but for many young women—especially in Christian homes and schools—the real struggle comes in sorting through competing voices, conflicting priorities, and a lack of clear role models. In this episode of BaseCamp Live , Davies sits down with his daughter, Hannah Owens , founder of The Swish Magazine . Drawing from her own classical Christian upbringing, Hannah shares how she came face-to-face with the confusion around womanhood in her Gen Z college years and why she’s now committed to recovering a vision of classical femininity —the preservation and reflection of truth, goodness, and beauty in womanhood. Together they discuss: Why Gen Z women often prioritize career over marriage and family—and what that reveals about cultural messaging. The gap between “pioneer bonnets” and modern feminism—and why girls need something more rooted and hopeful in between. How role models, from Princess Catherine to contemporary Christian entrepreneurs, can embody duty, beauty, and service. Practical ways parents and schools can guide daughters toward confident, Christ-centered womanhood. From family photo walls to auditing media habits, Hannah offers tangible steps to help reframe femininity not as performance, but as calling. This is a conversation for parents, educators, and young women alike who long to celebrate the true, good, and beautiful in a culture that has lost its way. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

What role do the arts really play in a classical Christian education? For many of us, “art class” growing up felt like a filler - something fun, but hardly central to learning. Music, theater, and visual art were often seen as side activities, not essential to shaping minds and hearts. But as guest Jarrod Richey reminds us, that view couldn’t be further from the historic Christian tradition. Jarrod - music teacher at Geneva Academy, author of Bach to the Future and editor of Raise the Song - makes the case that the creative arts are not extras but vital ways we reflect our Creator and form our children’s affections. He explains why hymn-singing, music literacy, and participatory art are as essential to discipleship as books and doctrine, helping students love what is true, good, and beautiful in tangible ways. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why the church historically led the way in the arts—and why we need to reclaim that vision today How hymns carry theology, unity, and gratitude across generations Why music literacy is a core skill, not an optional enrichment Practical ways families and schools can weave rich music and art into daily life The arts aren’t just about self-expression - they are about imaging God and passing on the faith. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about recovering beauty in education, worship, and the home. Resources Mentioned: Raise the Song Bach to the Future Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

One of the biggest decisions parents make is where their children go to school. With classrooms shaping faith, wisdom, and character, the stakes couldn’t be higher. In this episode of BaseCamp Live with Davies Owens, President of the Stanley M. Herzog Foundation Darrell Jones , shares how one man’s vision has grown into a nationwide movement for Christ-centered education . From his years as a pastor to leading one of the most influential organizations in the space, Darrell offers a front-row look at what’s changing in public education, why families and pastors are seeking new options, and how the Herzog Foundation is stepping in with practical support. Discover: Why the “yellow bus” may look the same but is headed to a very different destination than a generation ago How the Herzog Foundation Institute is equipping schools with free training and resources The role of parents, pastors, and schools in raising up salt-and-light disciples Why the rapid growth of Christian education is more than a trend - it’s a movement 🎧 Join us as we explore how the Herzog Foundation is helping families and schools build the next generation with wisdom and faith. Resources Mentioned: Schedule an introduction with Champion Group Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation The Champion Group ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

What does it take to raise boys into men in today’s culture? Fr. Mark Perkins, chaplain and assistant headmaster at St. Dunstan’s Academy , joins Davies Owens to discuss the urgent challenges facing boys and the bold vision behind launching a farm, trades, and classics boys’ boarding school in the Anglican tradition . Drawing on personal experience as a teacher, minister, and father, Fr. Mark highlights why so many boys are disengaging from schools, church, and even family life - and what we can do about it. From the importance of rites of passage, to the value of single-sex education, to the power of farming and trades as apprenticeships into manhood, this conversation offers parents and school leaders practical insights for re-embodying learning and lengthening the runway into adulthood. You’ll also hear about The Joshua Program , a new vocational discernment gap-year track for young men ages 17–20. 🎧 Tune in to discover: Why boys today struggle with school, work, and even forming families How rites of passage and mentorship shape healthy masculinity The four pillars of St. Dunstan’s Academy: Christian formation, classical academics, farming life, and trades Practical steps for parents and schools to cultivate responsibility, resilience, and community Resources Mentioned: https://mereorthodoxy.com/common-arts-that-matter Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

In this episode of BaseCamp Live , host Davies Owens welcomes Chuck Evans - longtime leader in classical Christian education and co-author of Wisdom and Eloquence . Nearly 20 years after the book’s original release, Chuck reflects on why he and Robert Littlejohn rewrote the new parent edition, and why the balance between protecting and preparing children matters more than ever. Chuck challenges the tendency toward “escapist” schooling, reminding parents that while protection has its place, our ultimate goal is preparation - raising wise, eloquent, Christ-centered young people who can engage culture with courage, persuasion, and hope. From the dangers of over-censorship to the importance of modeling faith at home, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical advice for families and educators alike. Tune in to hear: Why rhetoric—not coercion —is the cultural tool our kids need most The danger of turning schools into “protectatories” rather than preparatories How parents model either fear or faith in everyday life Practical encouragement for both parents and teachers on raising confident, persuasive disciples Resources Mentioned: Wisdom and Eloquence (Parent Edition) – Classical Academic Press Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Does Latin Still Matter? Why Parents Should Care About This “Dead” Language Latin is often dismissed as outdated or impractical - especially in an age of Google Translate and global languages like Spanish or Mandarin. So why do classical Christian schools keep it at the center of their curriculum? In this episode, host Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Chad Kim - author, pastor, and long-time Latin teacher - to unpack the surprising relevance of Latin today. Together they explore: Why Latin is more than a “dead language” and remains the bedrock of Western civilization How learning Latin strengthens logic, attention, and critical thinking The way Latin opens doors to Scripture, church history, and the Great Books Why wrestling with Latin builds the discipline and fortitude our distracted culture desperately needs How Dr. Kim’s new curriculum brings joy, depth, and even prayer into Latin study 🎧 If you’ve ever wondered why your child’s school requires Latin - or if it’s really worth the effort - this conversation will give you a fresh, thought-provoking perspective. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: The Herzog Foundation ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Uniforms in schools often stir up debate—are they too rigid, or do they actually cultivate something deeper? In this conversation, host Davies Owens is joined by Joanna Haralson , founder of Uniformee , to explore the real impact of uniforms in classical Christian schools. Uniforms aren’t just about matching outfits. They shape daily habits, reduce distractions, and help students focus on what matters most - learning and growing in virtue. From the practical benefits to the deeper cultural and spiritual significance, this episode unpacks why what students wear really does matter. 🎧 Tune in to discover: Why uniforms can be a powerful tool for unity and order How clothing choices affect a child’s sense of identity and focus Practical ways schools and parents can rethink uniforms as formation, not just dress code Listen in to rethink uniforms - not as a restriction, but as a tool for shaping hearts and minds. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Classical Christian education is a generational journey - and in this BaseCamp Live episode, we get a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse of how a love for the true, good, and beautiful is passed from parent to child. Dr. Louis Markos, professor, author, and longtime advocate for the great books, is joined by his son Alex, now a humanities teacher, to share how formative family habits, road-trip literature, and a Christian worldview shaped Alex’s path from public school to a deep embrace of the classics. Together, they explore why Christians should read pagan literature , the difference between formation and information , and how ancient texts can lead students toward truth and scripture. With memorable stories - from Marcus Aurelius-inspired dance moves to processing grief through The Iliad - this conversation offers both encouragement and practical ideas for parents and educators seeking to form thoughtful, faithful young people. 🎧 Tune in to discover: How classical education forms hearts and minds across generations Why reading pagan literature can prepare students to receive the gospel Ways families can naturally instill a love for great books The difference between simply learning information and being formed in virtue Real-life classroom moments where ancient texts shaped faith and character Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

What happens when the tests no longer reflect the education? In this episode, Davies Owens sits down with Sarah Novlan, Chief Academic Officer at Hill Country Christian School and a doctoral candidate studying the Harkness Seminar model, to explore why the once-revered AP program is falling short in today’s classical Christian schools. Together, they unpack the misalignment between AP coursework and the mission of classical education , the challenges of teaching to a test , and the dumbing down of rigor and content , especially in the humanities. Sarah shares her own journey from AP instructor to advocate for better assessments and introduces CLT’s new Enduring Courses , an emerging alternative that honors intellectual virtue , great books , and oral expression . If you’ve ever wondered whether AP or dual credit is still the right path - or what better options may be on the horizon - this conversation is a must. 🎧 Join us to discover: Why more classical schools are rethinking AP courses How assessments shape teaching and mission What makes CLT’s Enduring Courses a game-changing alternative Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

How do we know if our students are truly being formed - not just informed? In this powerful episode of BaseCamp Live , host Davies Owens is joined by educator and researcher Katherine Schultz to explore one of the most pressing questions in Christian education: how do we assess and support the formation of a child’s beliefs, behaviors, and attitudes ? Katherine introduces her groundbreaking tool, the 3D Worldview Survey , which helps parents and schools evaluate students in all three dimensions - head, heart, and hands - to spark meaningful discipleship and spiritual growth. This isn’t a spiritual report card—it’s a catalyst for real conversation and next steps. 🎧 Tune in to discover: Why so few students (and even pastors) hold a consistent biblical worldview What schools and parents can do to bridge the gap between belief and behavior How the 3DWS can be used to shape school culture and mentor students more effectively Don’t just hope your students are growing—know how to help them take the next step. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

What if the key to raising thoughtful, balanced, and flourishing kids isn't found in big moments - but in the quiet rhythms of daily life? In this episode, Davies Owens welcomes back Joanna Hensley , head of lower school at Wilson Hill Academy, pastor’s wife, and homeschool mom of six. With wisdom rooted in classical Christian education and a deep love for Charlotte Mason’s philosophy, Joanna shares practical ways families can cultivate meaningful habits, routines, and wonder even in the unstructured days of summer. From math games and nature walks to reading “living books” and resisting digital distractions, this conversation is packed with creative ideas for shaping lifelong learners without turning your home into a classroom. Whether you're parenting preschoolers or teens, this episode offers realistic, life-giving rhythms that bring formation, not just information. 🎧 Tune in to discover: Why rhythm—not intensity—is the key to lasting impact How to train the habit of attention in a distracted world What it looks like to partner with others in community-driven formation You don’t need more to-do lists - you need better rhythms. Start here. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

In this lively and thought-provoking Summer Flashback episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens is joined by AJ and Graeme - hosts of the Classical Stuff You Should Know podcast - for a conversation that’s anything but dry. With humor and deep insight, they explore the enduring value of the Great Books and why these ancient texts still matter in today’s fast-paced, tech-saturated world. What do old works like Plato’s Republic , Lewis’s Abolition of Man , and the Epic of Gilgamesh have to do with raising wise, virtuous kids in 2025? More than you think. AJ and Graeme argue that these works don’t just fill students with facts - they shape souls, build moral reasoning, and connect readers with timeless questions of virtue, mortality, and purpose. Along the way, you’ll hear about: The danger of reducing education to "skills" alone How reading trains sentiments and cultivates character Why kids actually love Plato (yes, really!) And what a classical education offers that modern schooling can’t Whether you’re a parent wondering why your school insists on Dante and Homer, or an educator seeking fresh ways to inspire students, this conversation is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in and rediscover the delight, relevance, and real-world impact of the Great Books - and why they’re more urgent than ever for the next generation. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

In this summer flashback episode of BaseCamp Live , host Davies Owens revisits an insightful conversation with Megan Atherton , founder of Common Sense Classical and program director at Golden View Classical Academy. Megan addresses a common concern: Is classical Christian education elitist? She explores why many prospective families feel intimidated by the uniforms, rigorous curriculum, and emphasis on excellence – and how these schools can communicate their mission with humility, gratitude, and dignity. Key topics include: Why classical education is not just for the elite How schools can cultivate excellence without fostering arrogance The difference between making judgments and being judgmental Why classical education is for every child whose family is on board with the mission Practical ways parents and educators can nurture confidence and humility in students Megan shares candid insights on how classical schools can better welcome families, build inclusive communities, and form students marked by wisdom, virtue, and grace – not prideful elitism. 🎧 Whether you’re a school leader, teacher, or parent navigating these questions, this episode will encourage and equip you. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Welcome to this summer flashback episode of BaseCamp Live! In today’s conversation, host Davies Owens revisits a powerful interview with Andrew Pudewa , founder and director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. In an age of shrinking vocabularies, short attention spans, and over-reliance on screens, Andrew shares why writing and speaking well are more critical than ever. He explains that students cannot think complex thoughts without the words to express them , and highlights how classical education – with its focus on grammar, logic, and rhetoric – equips students to become articulate, thoughtful communicators who can engage the world with truth and clarity. Andrew unpacks the decline he’s witnessed over three decades in students’ vocabulary and attention spans, and why reading aloud, memorizing beautiful language, and teaching students to write and speak persuasively are not just academic exercises but essential skills for life and faithfulness. He challenges parents and educators to see education not merely as preparation for wealth and comfort, but as formation for mission in the world. With practical encouragement, humorous reflections, and deep conviction, Andrew calls us back to raising students who can read, think, write, and speak well for God’s glory and the good of others . 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why reading aloud and memorizing are vital for language development How writing well prepares students for any vocation The role of rhetoric in equipping students to stand firm in today’s culture Encouragement for parents and teachers to stay the course in cultivating eloquence Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

In a world ruled by FOMO—the fear of missing out—what if the real antidote isn’t more digital connection, but less? In this encouraging episode, Davies Owens sits down with author and digital wellbeing advocate Christina Crook to explore the power of JOMO - t he Joy of Missing Out. Christina shares her story of stepping away from technology, launching a global movement, and helping parents and schools reclaim space for what matters most: real connection, creativity, and Christ-centered joy. From setting tech boundaries to building intentional family habits, this episode is packed with practical advice for parents, educators, and school leaders navigating the challenges of raising kids in a hyperconnected world. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why “shame-based” digital parenting doesn’t work How schools and parents can build healthy tech boundaries together How to create joyful alternatives to screen time What JOMO really means—and how to live it out Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: ZipCast Wilson Hill Academy Life Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected] Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.