LiberatED Podcast

Nance Confer is the founder and director of Florida Unschoolers. Launched in 2001, Florida Unschoolers is a tuition-free, private "umbrella" school for nearly 14,000 Florida unschoolers and homeschoolers. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Happy Thanksgiving! *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Kidvation Global is a nonprofit focused on administering programs that connect young people worldwide to create innovative, entrepreneurial solutions for present-day issues. Founded in 2022 by Harold Lee and Brent Wheelbarger, Kidvation has worked with over 2,500 students, including microschoolers and others learning in unconventional educational environments. Read more about Kidvation in this recent FEE.org article. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Jaclyn Gallo is the founder of Roots Academy in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, a K-5 microschool that she grew from 6 kids in 2020 to 36 kids this academic year. Roots Academy is a recognized private school staffed by certified teachers that emphasizes place-based, child-led learning. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Johan Norberg, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute and prolific author, shares his insights on capitalism and human flourishing. He highlights the critical role of free market systems in alleviating poverty and fostering innovation. Norberg challenges misconceptions about capitalism and argues that economic growth is essential for addressing global issues like inequality and environmental challenges. He also discusses historical golden ages, emphasizing that openness to new ideas fuels societal success, while fear leads to decline. His new book, The Capitalist Manifesto, is eagerly anticipated.

Jennifer Wolverton is the founder and Executive Director of the Microcollective for AI, Robotics, and the Sciences (known as MARS), a nonprofit dedicated to reshaping education through cutting-edge STEM and creative arts. Based in Huntsville, Alabama, MARS is a hybrid homeschooling program that empowers students with hands-on, project-based learning experiences in technology, engineering, and science. Jennifer also runs Log Cabin Schoolhouse, where her flagship curriculum, the AI Writers Guild, teaches students to harness artificial intelligence in novel writing, blending language arts with advanced tech skills. A passionate advocate for education reform, Jennifer actively engages in policy work to expand access to innovative, tech-forward education for all students in Alabama. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Andreas Marinopoulos, co-founder of Brilliant Microschools, discusses revolutionizing education for neurodiverse learners. He outlines the transition from a tutoring service to accredited microschools and the unique structure that fosters social-emotional learning in small classes. The conversation highlights how the pandemic reshaped enrollment strategies and the emergence of flexible commitment models. Marinopoulos also shares insights for education entrepreneurs on building adaptable and innovative educational ecosystems.

Tiffany Thenor, Co-founder and CEO of WonderHere, shares her inspiring journey from public school teacher to pioneer of play-based microschooling. She discusses the transformative power of play and project-based learning, emphasizing joy and creativity in education. Tiffany delves into WonderHere's innovative licensing model that supports new founders in establishing schools nationwide. Additionally, she highlights the rise of alternative education models post-COVID and the importance of financial accessibility through programs like Education Savings Accounts in Florida.

Thomas Dowell was a public school teacher in Arizona for several years before deciding to become an education entrepreneur. He launched Moreana Boys Academy earlier this fall as a home-based microschool located just outside of Phoenix that his students attend tuition-free. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Scott Gallagher taught in public schools for 17 years before joining the founding team of Raritan Learning Collaborative, a full-time self-directed learning center for homeschooled teens located in Flemington, New Jersey. Raritan is part of a consortium of self-directed learning centers in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and is a member of the Liberated Learners network. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.