LiberatED Podcast
Kerry McDonald
The LiberatED Podcast tells the stories of the entrepreneurial parents and teachers who are creating innovative K-12 learning options across the US and expanding education options for families.
This twice-weekly podcast is hosted by Kerry McDonald, a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Economic Education and leader of the Education Entrepreneurship Lab. A regular contributor at Forbes.com and The 74, Kerry is the bestselling author of Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom (Chicago Review Press, 2019), and the author of the forthcoming book, Joyful Learning: How To Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling (Hachette, 2025). She has a BA in economics from Bowdoin College and a master’s degree in education policy from Harvard University. A mom of four, Kerry lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter at edentrepreneur.org.
This twice-weekly podcast is hosted by Kerry McDonald, a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Economic Education and leader of the Education Entrepreneurship Lab. A regular contributor at Forbes.com and The 74, Kerry is the bestselling author of Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom (Chicago Review Press, 2019), and the author of the forthcoming book, Joyful Learning: How To Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling (Hachette, 2025). She has a BA in economics from Bowdoin College and a master’s degree in education policy from Harvard University. A mom of four, Kerry lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter at edentrepreneur.org.
Episodes
Mentioned books
5 snips
Nov 22, 2024 • 28min
A Maine school founder on place-based education
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.
8 snips
Nov 19, 2024 • 34min
Author Johan Norberg on capitalism and human flourishing
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.
Nov 15, 2024 • 37min
A Parent-Driven STEM Microschool in Alabama
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.
Nov 12, 2024 • 36min
Online microschools that embrace neurodiversity
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.
Nov 8, 2024 • 41min
How this founder is spreading play-based microschooling nationally
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.
Nov 5, 2024 • 37min
"I'm a free market guy. I love to give choice and opportunity."
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.
Nov 1, 2024 • 38min
Combining homeschooling and school for teens in New Jersey
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.
Oct 29, 2024 • 37min
An Arkansas charter school leader on why families need more options
Rebecca Newby taught high school English in the Pine Bluff, Arkansas public schools before becoming principal of Friendship Aspire Academy, a K-5 public charter school in Pine Bluff that is seeing skyrocketing demand from local families looking for new education options. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.
Oct 25, 2024 • 38min
After 10 years in public schools, this Montana teacher launched an Acton Academy
A high school math teacher and principal in Montana public schools for over 10 years, Rusty Bowers launched Bozeman Innovation Academy, a K-8 Acton Academy affiliate, in fall 2023. Acton Academy is a fast-growing network of schools focused on learner-driven education. Founded in 2009, the Acton network now includes over 300 independently-operated schools, serving thousands of learners. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.
Oct 22, 2024 • 45min
The benefits of dual enrollment programs for founders and families
Nathan Fellman was a public middle school teacher and administrator in New Hampshire for about 20 years before leaving his job to launch The Harkness House, a middle school microschool in Nashua, New Hampshire, which opened in fall 2022. Harkness House is a state-recognized private school that also has part-time enrollment options for homeschoolers, and some students attend at a reduced tuition thanks to the state's school choice programs. More families were asking for high school options, so Nate and his team decided to explore dual enrollment options, partnering with a local community college to expand offerings for high schoolers. Why Teachers Are Finding Meaningful Careers In Microschools (Forbes.com) *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.
