Basecamp Live

How can we create spaces where children feel secure, valued, and empowered to thrive? In this episode, Davies Owens is joined by Dr. Noah Brink to explore the transformative power of belonging in the lives of children. Together, they unpack three essential pillars—boundaries, bravery, and belovedness—that help foster meaningful connections at home and in schools. From practical family rituals to insights on celebrating individual gifts within a community, this conversation equips parents and educators to nurture the next generation with confidence and grace. Discover how belonging isn’t just a feeling but a cornerstone of raising thoughtful, resilient, and flourishing individuals.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to

In this episode of Base Camp Live, Keith McCurdy shares insights on raising resilient and grounded young women in a culture filled with conflicting messages and challenges. Joined by host Davies Owens and his daughter Hannah, they discuss practical strategies for fostering emotional strength, identity, and capability in daughters, emphasizing the role of parents, faith, and intentional community. From navigating emotions to encouraging risk-taking and adventure, this conversation offers timeless wisdom and actionable steps for shaping sturdy girls who thrive in any season of life.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife 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 info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit baseca

In this episode of Base Camp Live, host Davies Owens welcomes Dr. Brian Polk, a seasoned classical educator and director at the College of the Ozarks, to discuss the vital topic of training and certifying teachers and schools in the classical Christian education movement. Together, they explore how schools can ensure both academic rigor and faith formation through accreditation and teacher development programs. Dr. Polk highlights the growing collaboration among classical Christian schools and organizations to uphold high standards of education, emphasizing the critical role of mentorship, professional development, and accreditation tailored to this unique model. Whether you're a parent curious about your school's approach or a school leader seeking resources, this episode provides valuable insights into the thriving movement of classical Christian education.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGordon Colle

In this episode of Base Camp Live, host Davies Owens speaks with Kevin Goodnight, author of Dad Voted: Dads Devoted to Discovering Their Duty, Direction, and Destiny, about the vital role fathers play in shaping their children’s hearts, minds, and faith. Kevin shares insights from his personal journey and offers practical strategies for dads to engage more intentionally at home—through small daily actions, modeling faith and love, and creating trust-filled relationships. With a focus on spiritual leadership, Kevin emphasizes the profound impact fathers have on their children’s lifelong faith and character development, offering encouragement and resources for dads to step confidently into their God-given calling.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next tim

In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Emily Harrison to explore the challenge of managing screen time in today's tech-saturated world. Emily, a mother and advocate for reducing screen time, shares practical tips for guiding children through their screen-filled environments, whether at home or in school. Drawing from her experience as a ScreenStrong ambassador and classical Christian educator, Emily provides insights on how to approach technology with wisdom and balance in a way that nurtures both faith and family.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife 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 info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

How can students make wise choices when faced with tough decisions? When life offers multiple paths, how do they know which one to take? Do they have the personal convictions to guide them, regardless of the situation or consequences? Personal convictions reflect our deepest values and faith commitments. As we raise the next generation, it’s our responsibility to help them develop these deeply held beliefs. Especially as they approach high school, how can we prepare them to make sound decisions, both at home and in the classroom? Join us as we explore this important topic with expert Tami Peterson, founder of Life Architects Coaching on this important episode of BaseCamp Live.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subs

Curriculum—it’s something most parents rarely think about, unless you’re involved in homeschooling or collaborative learning. Even then, you might follow a classical approach without much thought. But curriculum is the software that powers classroom learning, and for those of us who didn’t experience classical education, it can seem quite different from what we remember.Where did the traditional history and English classes go? What’s all this talk about an integrated curriculum? And most importantly, will this truly prepare our children for the challenges of the modern world?Join us as we explore these questions and more on today’s episode of BaseCamp Live!Special Thank You to our Sponsors:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGordon CollegeClassical Academic PressLife 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

In today’s episode, we’re exploring a transformative concept championed by Keith McCurdy: the shift from raising children as consumers to nurturing them as contributors. In a world that often prioritizes “me first,” this mindset asks a different question: “How can I help?”But how does this philosophy play out in real life? The Classical School of Wichita put it to the test, and the results are inspiring. Their school culture has been transformed as students have taken ownership—not just of their learning, but of their entire community. From leading projects to supporting each other, these students have become active contributors.Join us as we delve into their journey with Classical School of Wichita teachers Grant Bickell and Evan Adams who share practical ways you can encourage your own children to become contributors, both at home and in school. This is an episode you won’t want to miss—right here on BCL!Special Thanks to our sponsors!ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning

Education is about more than college admissions and job prospects—it’s about the formation of the human soul and cultivating in our children a love for the true, the good, and the beautiful. Yet, we still need reliable ways to measure learning. If grades and test performance aren’t the focus, how do we realistically assess academic progress? As even colleges move away from traditional standardized tests, finding appropriate and reliable methods for evaluation is more important than ever. In this episode, we explore some of the best tools for measuring progress both in the classroom and at home with Soren Schwab, the VP of Partnerships at the Classic Learning Test. You don’t want to miss this episode!Learn more about the great work of the CLT at https://www.cltexam.comSpecial Thanks to our Partners:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGutenberg CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects Coaching  Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian ed

There is no shortage of opinions and ‘right ways’ when it comes to parenting, with many claiming a Biblical perspective. Navigating these varying views—from authoritarian to permissive—can be challenging. The good news is that Keith McCurdy is back to discuss several trending parenting styles, including the latest approach known as ‘gentle parenting.’ While this method is often presented as a grace-filled and easy way to parent, it can have unintended consequences. In this episode, we’ll explore proven best practices as we partner with homes and schools to raise the next generation.Special thanks to our amazing sponsors who continue to make this show possible!Please check out and support our partners:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGutenberg CollegeClassical Academic PressLife 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 reac

Southern writer Flannery O’Connor once said, “A good man is hard to find,” and that statement seems more true today than ever. With increasing temptations and fewer strong role models, raising the next generation of good men has become one of our most important—and challenging—tasks.However, there is hope. Classical Christian schools provide a unique environment where boys can grow into the men we desperately need, despite stereotypes that suggest classical education might be too gentle. In these schools, boys are shaped into men of character, strength, and virtue.Join us as we address the modern crisis facing young men and explore how parents and educators can guide them on their journey to becoming truly good men. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss!Special thanks to our amazing sponsors who continue to make this show possible!Please check out and support our partners:ZipCastWilson Hill AcademyAmericas Christian Credit UnionClassic Learning TestGutenberg CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Archite

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/Special thanks to our amazing sponsors who continue to make this show possible!Please check out and support our partners:Wilso

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!We are thrilled to share the rollout of our new media platform, ZipCast, bridging communication between schools and parents and encouraging them on the go with what they need to know. Learn more about ZipCast at https://www.zipcast.media or reac

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?Our guest, Sarah Abbott, shares with us the Five Common Topics—a proven method to supercharge conversations both in the classroom and at home. Stay tuned for this episode of BCL as we learn how to ask the kind of questions that inspire and connect!We are thrilled to share the rollout of our new media platform, ZipCast, bridging communication between schools and parents and encouraging them on the go with what they need to know.

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.We are thrilled to share the rollout of our new media platform, ZipCast, b

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.Order Sam Cox’s book “I Will Give Them an Everlasting Name: Jacksonville’s Stories of the Holocaust” at https://www.amazon.com/Will-Give-Them-Everlasting-Name/dp/949332253XSpecial Thanks to this

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 brings encouraging words and practical solutions to reframe this mindset in our homes and schools.We are thrilled to share the rollout of our new media platform, ZipCast, bridging communication between schools and parents and encouraging them on the go with what they need to know. Learn more about ZipCast at https://www.zipcast.media or reach out to us at hello@zipcast.media!Special Thanks to this week’s incredible sponsors:Americas Christian Credit UnionClassical Learning Te

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. Don’t miss this special episode preparing families for this exciting season.What did you think of this episode? Should Davies be interviewed again? Email us at info@basecamplive.com!We are thrilled to share the rollout of our brand new media platform, ZipCast, helping parents be encouraged on the go with what they need to know.  Learn more, hear a demo, and get started today at http://www.zipcast.media Have a question about ZipCast? Send us a message at hello@zipcast.media.Special thanks as always to our amazing sponsors for making this possible:Americas Christian Credit UnionClassical Learning TestGrand Canyon UniversityGutenberg CollegeClassical Academic PressLife Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on cl

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. Special thanks to our sponsors:https://americaschristiancu.com/personal/https://www.cltexam.com/https://www.gcu.edu/https://gutenberg.edu/https://classicalacademicpress.com/https://www.lifearchitectscoaching.com/  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 info@basecamplive.comDon't for

In this historical episode of BaseCamp Live, 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.What did you think of this episode? Should Davies be interviewed again? Email us at info@basecamplive.com!We are thrilled to share the rollout of our brand new media platform, ZipCast, helping parents be encouraged on the go with what they need to know. Learn more, hear a demo, and get started today at http://www.zipcast.mediaHave a question about ZipCast? Send us a message at hello@zipcast.media.Special thanks as always to our amazing sponsors making this possible:Americas Christian Credit UnionClassical Learning TestGrand Canyon UniversityGutenberg CollegeClassical Academic