Basecamp Live

Classical Christian education isn’t just for a privileged few—it’s a banquet meant for everyone. In this inspiring episode, Davies Owens is joined by Russ Gregg, founder of Hope Academy in Minneapolis and the Spreading Hope Network. Russ shares how his journey began 25 years ago with a simple but powerful question: How do we love our neighbors as ourselves, especially when it comes to education?From navigating the real challenges of urban communities to pioneering a sponsorship-based financial model, Russ explains why "the education that’s best for the best is best for all." Together, they explore the crucial need for high expectations, high accountability, and high support in raising up the next generation.Plus, Russ discusses the exciting movement of school choice sweeping the nation, the importance of family habits like mealtime reading, and why true joy comes from making room at the banquet table for those who have historically been left out. If you’ve ever wondered how you can be part of the classical ed

In this episode, we’re tackling a topic that affects more families than you might expect—dyslexia—and how classical Christian schools can not only accommodate but help students thrive.Our guest, Rebecca Dornbusch, is a reading specialist and devoted mom who’s on a mission to help dyslexic students become “victorious readers.” She brings both professional insight and a deep, faith-filled perspective, reminding us that this challenge isn’t the end—it’s a beginning.Rebecca explains:

In this encouraging episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens is joined by Joanna Hensley, Lower School Headmaster at Wilson Hill Academy, mom of six, and passionate classical educator. Together, they explore what it means to be intentional curators of our children’s education—without letting school overwhelm the joy of home life.Through her personal journey—from studying Latin as a college student to parenting across continents—Joanna shares practical wisdom for finding balance between school and family, reclaiming restful weekends, and reframing education as a community-supported endeavor.

In this episode, we explore a word that has largely faded from everyday conversation yet holds the key to rebuilding a fractured culture—fidelity. Join Dr. Robert P. George, esteemed professor at Princeton and leading voice in public ethics, as he makes the case for Fidelity Month and shares why faith in God, strong families, and love of country are the three pillars our society must reclaim.Together with host Davies Owens, Dr. George unpacks:

Is your home emotionally safe? In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world, families are struggling more than ever with conflict, stress, and disconnection. In this episode, host Davies Owens sits down with Rob Hayes-St. Clair and Michael Cox, the duo behind the Core 4 Framework and Parenting Made Peaceful, to discuss a better way forward.Drawing from biblical truth, restoration therapy, and years of experience mentoring families and teens, Rob and Michael explain how identifying our own emotional pain cycles—and learning how to replace them with peace cycles—can radically transform the way we parent. You’ll learn how to recognize the four emotional “types” parents default to under stress, why your child’s behavior often mirrors your own unspoken patterns, and how to bring lasting change through truth-based communication and emotional regulation.This isn’t about being ruled by emotions—it’s about understanding them and leading your family from a place of peace, not pain. If you're looking for practical tools,

What’s the real purpose of education? Is it just about passing tests—or passing the torch of civilization itself?In this episode, Dr. Louis Markos, professor, prolific author, and champion of classical Christian education, returns to share insights from his new book, Passing the Torch: An Apology for Classical Christian Education. Drawing from Plato to C.S. Lewis, he makes the compelling case that education is soul formation, not social engineering—and classical Christian education is the only model robust enough to raise morally self-regulating, virtuous citizens.Discover why reading the great books is more than academic—it’s civilizational. Learn how truth, goodness, and beauty still anchor us in a culture adrift. And be encouraged: this is not a nostalgic movement—it’s a necessary revival for the future.

As parents, we’re not meant to raise our children alone. Community matters—partnering with schools, churches, and other families helps shape a shared vision and a strong culture for our children. Yet, in a world where busyness and digital distractions dominate, meaningful communication between home and school has never been more challenging.In this episode, Davies Owens and his daughter, Hannah, dive into the crucial but often forgotten element of classical Christian education: effective communication between schools and parents. Drawing from their experience with ZipCast and insights from national surveys, they explore how schools can better engage parents and equip families with the tools needed to raise the next generation.

Welcome to Classical Essentials, a special Best of Basecamp Live series!Over the years, we've explored the core principles of classical Christian education, and one of the most overlooked yet essential elements is beauty. In this final episode of our Classical Essentials series, we revisit a critical conversation about why beauty is not just decoration—it’s foundational to understanding truth and goodness.Nick Duncan, professional chef and humanities teacher, shares how beauty shapes our affections, awakens our souls, and ultimately leads us toward God. In a world that reduces beauty to subjective taste, this episode dives into why restoring beauty in our homes and classrooms is key to forming wise, virtuous, and flourishing students.

Welcome to Classical Essentials, a special Best of BaseCamp Live series! Over the years, we've had incredible conversations unpacking the foundational ideas of classical Christian education. In this series, we're bringing back some of the most popular and essential episodes to help parents, educators, and school leaders better understand the core principles that make this movement so impactful.In this episode, Dr. Chris Schlect tackles a common point of confusion: What exactly do we mean by classical, liberal arts, and humanities? Are they distinct educational approaches, or do they overlap? Understanding these terms is key to choosing the best educational path for our children and schools.

Welcome to another Classical Essentials, a special Best of Basecamp Live series! Over the years, we've had incredible conversations unpacking the foundational ideas of classical Christian education. In this series, we're bringing back some of the most popular and essential episodes to help parents, educators, and school leaders better understand the core principles that make this movement so impactful.Why should Christian students read pagan books? Wouldn’t it be safer to stick to Christian authors? Shouldn’t we only fill our children’s minds with explicitly biblical works? These are common concerns among parents and educators, and in this episode, Dr. Louis Markos offers a compelling answer.Many of history’s greatest books—from Homer to Plato to Virgil—were written by pre-Christian authors. Yet, these works wrestle with profound questions about virtue, truth, and human nature—questions that ultimately point to Christ. Rather than being a threat to faith, these books can deepen a student’s understanding of Go

Welcome to Classical Essentials, a special Best of Basecamp Live series! Over the years, we've had incredible conversations unpacking the foundational ideas of classical Christian education. In this series, we're bringing back some of the most popular and essential episodes to help parents, educators, and school leaders better understand the core principles that make this movement so impactful.In this episode, Dr. David Diener tackles a critical question: What is the true purpose of education? Many assume that education is primarily about college and career readiness, but classical Christian education aims much higher—toward the formation of virtuous, wise, and flourishing human beings. Discover why this timeless approach to learning is more relevant than ever in shaping the next generation.

Classical Christian education is making waves across the world, and Australia is no exception. In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Sarah Flynn, a mother of five and a scholar of human flourishing, shares her eye-opening journey into classical education—first as a skeptic, then as a passionate advocate. From questioning modern education’s limitations to witnessing the transformational power of classical learning, Sarah's story highlights why this approach is more than just old books and nostalgia—it's a blueprint for raising wise, whole, and flourishing humans. Whether you're new to the movement or a long-time believer, Sarah’s insights from Australia’s classical education revival will inspire and challenge you.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects CoachingLight Phone Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Rem

Are we raising resilient, capable kids—or fragile, anxious ones? In this eye-opening episode, Keith McCurdy joins BaseCamp Live to expose the cultural shifts that have led to skyrocketing anxiety and emotional fragility in children. He explains why modern parenting has drifted from raising kids of character to chasing happiness and success, and how this shift has deeply impacted our families, schools, and society.But there’s good news: we can course-correct. Keith outlines four critical parenting strategies to cultivate sturdy kids—children who embrace responsibility, struggle well, and grow into mature, self-regulated adults. If you're ready for practical, countercultural wisdom that will transform your family for the better, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects CoachingLight Phone Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Chr

In this inspiring episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Susan Crosier, head of school at Grace Preparatory Academy and a doctoral expert in parent engagement. Together, they unpack the vital connection between home and school, offering practical advice to help parents and educators align their efforts for the success of today’s children. From the importance of slowing down in a busy world to fostering meaningful conversations at home, Dr. Crosier provides fresh perspectives and actionable insights on creating a strong family-school partnership. Whether you're a parent navigating the demands of modern life or an educator seeking to better engage families, this episode will leave you equipped and encouraged for the journey ahead. Don't miss it!Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects CoachingLight Phone Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian

How can parents cultivate resilience and lasting joy in their children in today’s challenging world? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Dr. John Trent, co-author of The Blessing, shares practical, faith-based tools to strengthen family bonds.Dr. Trent dives into the timeless principles of attachment, affirmation, and genuine commitment, offering actionable steps to help parents raise flourishing kids. Learn how meaningful words, intentional actions, and a biblical understanding of blessing can guide your children through anxiety, identity struggles, and cultural pressures.Discover why every child deserves the power of a blessing—and how you can incorporate this life-changing practice into your parenting today.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects CoachingLight Phone Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Rem

Money—it’s everywhere, yet rarely talked about in depth, especially from a biblical perspective. Did you know that nearly half of Jesus’ parables address money? In this powerful episode, Dr. John Thornton, CPA and author of Jesus’ Terrible Financial Advice, joins Davies Owens to explore how we can guide our children to become wise stewards, intentional contributors, and thoughtful managers of their resources.From practical tips like creating family giving habits to fostering humility and gratitude, this episode equips parents with the tools to raise children who thrive in a consumer-driven culture. Don’t miss this life-changing conversation about faith, finances, and forming lifelong values.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects CoachingLight Phone Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe

Parenting and educating in a constantly changing world can feel overwhelming. In this insightful episode, Scott Barron, founder of School Growth and Educators Fellowship, shares his wisdom on navigating the challenges of raising and teaching children in what he calls an "uber-dynamic transient state." Scott unpacks how to embrace change with humility, build trust within school communities, and find peace in the unchanging truths of Scripture. From the importance of feedback loops and self-awareness to practical advice for fostering collaboration between parents and schools, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you lead with grace and confidence.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects CoachingLight Phone 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 rea

How can we equip the next generation to cut through the noise and think critically in a world saturated with misinformation? Dr. Eliot Grasso, Vice President of Gutenberg College, joins BaseCamp Live to tackle the challenge of "particles of propaganda" and how they shape our lives. Drawing on Jacques Ellul's timeless insights, Dr. Grasso unpacks practical tools for parents and educators to cultivate clarity, discernment, and resilience in their children. From simple dinner table dialogues to foundational worldview questions, learn how to anchor your family in truth, goodness, and beauty. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or lifelong learner, this episode offers actionable steps to build a stronger foundation for the next generation.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects CoachingLight Phone Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next ti

Parenting in today’s world is harder than ever, with countless voices offering advice that often feels confusing or contradictory. In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Keith McCurdy, a trusted counselor and expert with over 30 years of experience, dives into the challenge of finding trustworthy, biblical parenting wisdom. Keith unpacks why parents feel more overwhelmed than ever, how generational wisdom has been lost, and what we can do to recover timeless truths for raising our children. He also explores the pitfalls of turning to Google or quick fixes and offers practical strategies for discerning advice grounded in Scripture. From foundational parenting principles to the importance of locking arms with community, this episode provides parents with clarity, confidence, and hope for navigating the chaos of modern parenting.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Archite

Balancing the demands of work, family, and faith can leave parents feeling stretched thin and overwhelmed. In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Charity Gibson, author of The Working Homemaker, shares practical wisdom for Christian parents who desire a thriving home life, no matter how busy their days may be. From cultivating deep, lasting relationships with your children to redeeming the little moments that often slip by unnoticed, Charity offers encouragement and actionable tips to help families resist the pull of busyness and distraction.Whether you’re a mom working outside the home, a dad managing the juggling act, or a parent striving to make every moment count, this episode will inspire you to embrace intentional parenting and create a home life that reflects your family’s values.Tune in for practical advice, thoughtful reflections, and renewed encouragement on the journey of raising the next generation!Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christi