What happens when a Catholic mom turns a handful of goats and chickens into a thriving family farm?

Kaitlin Zara sits down with Christina Mula of MooLa Farm to discuss how homesteading, healthy eating, and hands-on learning can beautifully enrich your homeschool life.

From gardening with kids to sourcing real food on a budget to embracing small beginnings, Christina offers practical, joyful wisdom every family can use—no acreage required!

Plus, don’t miss her encouraging reminder at 19:38: “Start small…and you will get there.”

Today's Sponsor is Homeschool Connections: Live and recorded online courses for Catholic homeschooling families, taught by expert instructors who love their faith. Learn more at https://homeschoolconnections.com/

Show Notes

Meet Our Guest:

Christina Mula Christina is a Catholic wife, homeschooling mom, and the founder of Moola Farm, a family-run, organic-only farm created to nourish her home and community. What began with a dream and a few animals has grown into a source of fresh produce, baked goods, and inspiration for families seeking a more intentional way of living.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moolafarm/

Website: https://moolafarm.org/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moolafarm

In This Episode We Discuss:

How Moola Farm Began

Starting with goats, chickens, and a simple desire to feed her family well

The unexpected growth into a community-serving farm business

Homesteading as a Homeschool Lifestyle

How gardening becomes a natural, hands-on science curriculum

Easy ways to involve your kids—even little ones—in growing food

Connecting daily chores with responsibility, gratitude, and stewardship

Healthy Eating for Real Families

Simple tips for sourcing better food affordably

Christina’s go-to strategies for meal planning, homemade basics, and reducing processed foods

Teaching kids where food comes from and why it matters

Getting Started—Even If You Don’t Have a Farm

Container gardening

Small-space and suburban options

How to take “the next right step” for your family

Faith, Family, and the Rhythm of the Seasons

How farming life naturally integrates with prayer, liturgical living, and formation

Seeing God’s hand in the slow, beautiful work of growing and tending

You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/

Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/

Catholic Homeschool Podcast: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/

Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more homeschool inspiration each week!

Author and cultural commentator Noelle Mering joins host Kaitlin Zara to unpack the true meaning of femininity, domestic life, and the “trad wife” conversation, beyond aesthetics and online trends.

From the power of stability in the home to the beauty of complementarity in marriage, Noelle offers rich, faith-filled encouragement for Catholic homeschooling moms. This inspiring conversation will uplift your vocation and remind you why your work in the home matters more than ever.

Fiat Life Coaching – Premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms from Emily Brown. Learn essential skills for time, emotions, and family management in the Happy, Holy Mama Membership. Visit fiatlifecoaching.com

Fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center · Author of Awake, Not Woke and the Theology of Home series · Commentator on culture, politics, and religion · Wife and mother of six.

• Instagram: @noellemering

• Website: https://www.noellemering.com/

• Theology of Home: https://theologyofhome.com/

• Books:

  • Awake, Not Woke: https://amzn.to/4oCWhXG

  • Theology of Home I: https://amzn.to/3K4AMkj

  • Theology of Home II: https://amzn.to/43WY5Dh

  • Theology of Home III: https://amzn.to/3M2S6a1

• What the “trad wife” trend gets right—and wrong.

• Why domestic life is countercultural and essential to human flourishing.

• How secular ideologies undermine the family and why stability threatens revolution.

• Understanding authentic Christian submission vs. cultural misunderstandings.

• The difference between luxury and beauty in homemaking.

• Encouragement for working moms and homeschooling moms striving for balance.

• Creating a joyful emotional “ambiance” in the home and why fun matters.

You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/

Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/

Catholic Homeschool Podcast: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/

Kaitlin Zara sits down with law professor, award-winning author, and longtime homeschool advocate Tony Kolenc to unpack some of the most important legal questions homeschooling families face.

From record-keeping and testing requirements to special-needs services, extracurricular access, and protecting your family against unwanted inquiries, Tony offers clear, practical, and empowering guidance for homeschool parents in every state.

With 21 years of military service and decades of legal experience, Tony brings both expertise and compassion to the conversation, plus a memorable story about Tim Tebow’s impact on homeschool sports access.

Whether you’re brand new to homeschooling or many years in, this episode will help you feel confident, informed, and supported.

SHOW NOTES

Learn More About Our Guest:

• Instagram: @antonykolenc
• Website: antonykolenc.com
• Books: https://amzn.to/4rvutqO

HSLDA: https://hslda.org/

Practical Homeschooling: https://www.practicalhomeschooling.com/

What We Cover in This Episode

• Understanding Your State’s Homeschool Laws
• Essential Records Every Homeschool Family Should Keep
• Testing Requirements: What’s Mandatory & What’s Optional
• Special Needs Services for Homeschoolers
• Your Rights If a District or Social Worker Knocks on Your Door
• Extracurriculars, Sports & the “Tim Tebow” Laws

Today's Sponsor: Homeschool Connections - Live and recorded online courses for Catholic homeschooling families from expert instructors who love their faith.

You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/

Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/

Catholic Homeschool Podcast: https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/

In today's episode, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with interior designer, entrepreneur, and author Whitney English to talk about how to create a beautiful, organized, and faith-filled homeschool space, no matter the size of your home.

Whether your “classroom” is the dining room table or a designated schoolroom, Whitney offers practical, budget-friendly advice for reducing clutter, choosing the right storage solutions, and designing a space that truly works for your family.

But the conversation goes deeper than decor, Whitney and Kaitlin discuss how to cultivate peace, spiritual growth, and strong family relationships within the homeschool environment.

With humor, honesty, and plenty of real-life stories, Whitney reminds parents that organization is a process, imperfection is normal, and the heart of a meaningful homeschool space is love, patience, and connection.

Thank you to our sponsor, Benedictine College, which makes this podcast possible! Benedictine College is located in the small, picturesque town of Atchison, Kansas. The college is Newman Guide recommended and ranked as a top college in both U.S. News and The Wall Street Journal. Benedictine is also homeschool-friendly, offering a family-oriented atmosphere, small class sizes, and outstanding ministry and student life programs. Visit benedictine.edu to learn more.

WHAT WE DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE:

• How to design a multifunctional homeschool area—even if you use your dining room table

• Why rolling carts, china cabinets, and non-plastic containers can transform your space

• The importance of organizing first, decorating second

• How clutter affects a child’s focus—and how parents can maintain clarity during busy homeschool days

• Creative ideas for involving children in home organization and teaching real-life skills

• Why a spiritually nurturing homeschool space is more about relationship and vulnerability than decor

• Fun rapid-fire tips on furniture, fabrics, and refreshing kids’ rooms

• How to display children’s artwork in stylish, meaningful ways

SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES:

• Three-shelf rolling cart: https://amzn.to/3JNXbSJ
• Whitney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitneyenglish/
• Whitney on Substack: https://whitneyenglish.substack.com/
• Book: Organize First, Decorate Second (Whitney English): https://amzn.to/44dIbEq

• Book: A More Beautiful Life (Whitney English): https://amzn.to/482rfCa

You'll also find Homeschool Connections Podcast on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolingsaints/

Make sure to check out our Catholic Homeschool Blog for more homeschooling tips, support, and practical help!

Visit our Podcast page at Catholic Homeschool Podcast.

Yes, You Can Homeschool for High School | A Teen Entrepreneur’s Success Story with Anthony Gugliucci

Can homeschooling in high school really set your teen up for success? In this inspiring episode, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with Anthony Gugliucci, founder of AG Cooks and a business student at Penn State University.

Once a Catholic school student, Anthony made the bold leap to homeschool during high school and found the freedom to discover his passions, launch a thriving meal prep business, and grow in discipline and faith. He shares how homeschooling gave him real-world experience, deep family connections, and the courage to follow his calling.

Whether you’re nervous about homeschooling through high school or looking for encouragement to keep going, Anthony’s story will remind you that success looks different—and brighter—outside the traditional classroom.

Thank You to Our Sponsor!

This episode is sponsored by Fiat Life Coaching. Learn more about the Happy, Holy Mama Membership at https://fiatlifecoaching.com/.

Connect with Anthony:

Website: https://www.agcooksfood.com/

Instagram: @agcooksfood

To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:

• Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
• Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
• The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com
• Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/

Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!

In this heartfelt episode of Homeschool Connections, host Kaitlin Zara sits down with author and speaker Emily Stimpson Chapman to talk about how hospitality, shared meals, and authentic friendship can transform our homes and communities.

Emily shares from her own experience as a busy mom of three, encouraging listeners to embrace imperfect homes, messy tables, and genuine connection as part of living out the Christian call to love. From the beauty of family meals to the importance of inviting others into our everyday lives, this conversation will leave you inspired to open your heart and your home.

In this episode:

• How shared meals foster faith and connection
• Why hospitality is a Christian mandate — not just “entertaining”
• Tips for hosting with simplicity and joy (even when life is messy!)
• How authenticity builds deeper friendships
• Finding grace and community around the table

“Hospitality isn’t about perfection — it’s about love.”

Where to find Emily:

Instagram: @emilystimpsonchapman

Substack: emilystimpsonchapman.substack.com

Books by Emily:

• Around the Catholic Table: 100+ Simple Recipes for Family and Friends: https://amzn.to/4o1ituZ
• The Story of All Stories: A Story Bible for Young Catholics, https://amzn.to/4nTojOV
• Mary, Mother of All (co-authored with Scott Hahn), https://amzn.to/43uEFoT
• The Catholic Table: Finding Joy Where Food and Faith Meet, https://amzn.to/46ZDSP1

This Episode is sponsored by Christendom College: High school juniors—want to discover college life like nowhere else? Join Christendom College for The Best Week Ever: a unique summer program with classes, adventure, and new friends, all grounded in the Catholic faith. Apply by December 1 and save 25%! Learn more at www.thebestweekever.com

To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:

• Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
• Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/
• The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com
• Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/

Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!

Host Kaitlin Zara sits down with beloved homeschool coach and author Pam Barnhill to talk all things planning—and why it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

If you're feeling the pressure of homeschooling without a clear direction, this episode is your lifeline. Pam shares practical tools, mindset shifts, and small but powerful strategies to help you create a homeschool plan that works for your family without sacrificing peace or relationships.

From designing the school year around real priorities to understanding the rhythm that works best for your family, this episode is filled with down-to-earth wisdom and encouragement for every homeschool parent—new or veteran.

In this episode:

• Why homeschool planning isn’t about rigid structure
• How to identify your “non-negotiables”
• The power of one good plan (and how to start)
• Encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed
• What Pam wishes she had known earlier in her homeschool journey

Thank you to our sponsor Cluny Media! Explore timeless Catholic literature with over 400 titles in history, fiction, and spiritual reading. Visit https://clunymedia.com/titles and save 15% off your first order!

About Pam Barnhill: Pam is a homeschool mom, award-winning educator, and the host of the Homeschool Better Together podcast. She’s the author of Better Together and Plan Your Year, and the founder of Your Morning Basket.

Learn more about Pam at:

Website: pambarnhill.com

FREE Homeschool Planning Pages: freehomeschoolplanner.com

FREE Morning Basket Plans: pambarnhill.com/month

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolbettertogether/

Podcast: https://pambarnhill.com/homeschool-better-together-podcast/

Blog: https://pambarnhill.com/hsbt-blog/

YouTube: ​​https://www.youtube.com/@PamBarnhill/videos

To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:

Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/

Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/

The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com

Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/

Grab your coffee, and let’s homeschool together!

You Can Have It All: The Heart of the Working Homeschooling Mother

The Homeschool Connections Podcast Episode 255: The Homeschool Mom and Entrepreneur Life.

This week, host Kailin Zara sits down with Therese Desilet, a former attorney turned homeschooling mom and the founder of Lovely Lady Linens. Therese shares her powerful journey of discerning her true vocation, walking away from a successful legal career, and creating a home life rooted in beauty, faith, and purpose.

From the emotional tug-of-war between career and motherhood to the joyful chaos of homeschooling and running a business, Therese invites us into the real, raw, and rewarding moments that led to her family’s transformation. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can homeschool, live your faith boldly, and pursue creative dreams—you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation.

SHOW NOTES:

Special Offer for Our Listeners: Get 25% off at lovelyladylinens.com with code homeschoolconnections

Follow Therese on Instagram: @lovely_lady_linens

Saints Alive Podcast, https://www.saintsalivepodcast.com/

Article: Can I Be a WAHM and Homeschool? https://homeschoolconnections.com/can-i-be-a-wahm-and-homeschool/

Don’t forget to subscribe for more faith-filled encouragement each week. And, LEAVE a comment to let us know how we're doing!

To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you:

Catholic Homeschool Blog, https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/

Catholic Homeschool Podcast, https://homeschoolconnections.com/podcast/

The Catholic Homeschool Conference, https://catholichomeschoolconference.com

Homeschool Connections Community, https://community.homeschoolconnections.com/

Grab your coffee, and let's homeschool together!