Hey There Ex-homies…

This newsletter is coming out a little late this week…but I have a good reason. If you haven’t been watching the news, you might have missed that most of the south froze this past week. I mean, like literally FROZE!!!

We had our power go out for 2 days and temperatures drop very quickly. Thankfully, our wonderful friend let us stay in her warm and cozy house. But outside was insane. The roads were coated in ice. Trees were so heavy from icicles that they were snapping in half. We heard reports of frost quakes. And Nashville is still picking up from the damage created.

All that to say, I’m safe and sound in my house now and I hope any of you who live in the affected areas are safe as well.

On the last episode…

I sat down with Tess Ulrey, Executive Director of the Coalition for Responsible Home Education, to unpack what homeschooling really looks like beyond the idealized version most people hear about. From growing up across multiple countries (both homeschooled and not) to advocating for homeschool kids today, Tess brings a powerful alumni perspective to a conversation that desperately needs it.

In this episode, we covered:

• Homeschooling & privilege – Why access and resources matter more than people admit

• Homeschooling vs. unschooling – Where the lines blur and why definitions matter

• College & adult transitions – Why many homeschoolers struggle after graduation

• Abuse & neglect risks – The uncomfortable realities hidden by deregulation

• Alumni voices & advocacy – Why former homeschoolers must be at the policy table

What I’m reading…

If you want to keep up with my current reads, follow me over on Fable. I track all my reads and even leave some book reviews from time to time.

What I'm Watching…

Last newsletter I told you how I had finally checked out Shiny Happy People. Season 1 was a tough watch mainly because I grew up watching the Duggars. And even though I thought they were a little strange, I believed they were displaying goodness, kindness, and godliness to the world. So you can imagine my shock when a few years ago, the news came out about Josh Duggar!

The other thing that has shocked me, is the number of people in my close circle who grew up directly impacted by IBLP. And as we began to talk about the documentary, I could see and hear the instant drop in their demeanor. This cult (yes it’s a cult) really hurt people I love. And while I didn’t directly suffer under the teachings of IBLP, I’m learning how it crept into my upbringing.

This makes me mad. And it makes me sad. It’s served as a good reminder of the importance of asking questions and pushing for answers. If you’re unpacking this stuff like I am, remember you are not alone. And if you need a friend to talk to, I’m an email away.

Until next time…

I hope you have a wonderful weekend! Be kind to one another!

With peace and love,

Jacob G