Homeschooling Speakers

A homeschooling speaker is someone who shares insights, strategies, and stories related to homeschooling through public speaking engagements, podcasts, webinars, or live events. They might be former teachers, education consultants, experienced homeschool parents, or thought leaders in alternative education models.

These speakers typically focus on a range of topics-from curriculum design and learning styles to socialization and legal compliance. Some specialize in specific approaches like Montessori, Charlotte Mason, or unschooling, while others take a broader view of the homeschooling landscape.

What sets homeschooling speakers apart from general education speakers is their focus on the home-based learning environment. They understand the unique challenges and freedoms that come with educating outside the traditional school system. Whether they're addressing a room full of parents at a homeschool convention or speaking on a podcast about remote learning, their goal is to inform, equip, and empower.

In many cases, homeschooling speakers also serve as advocates. They help normalize homeschooling by sharing success stories, debunking myths, and offering practical guidance. Their voice can be especially influential in regions where homeschooling is still viewed with skepticism.

So if you're organizing an event or show focused on education, parenting, or alternative learning, a homeschooling speaker can bring a fresh, grounded, and often transformative perspective.

When families consider homeschooling, they're often stepping into unfamiliar territory-and that's exactly where a homeschooling speaker becomes crucial. These speakers act as navigators, helping parents and educators make sense of a complex and sometimes overwhelming system.

First, they provide clarity. Homeschooling laws, curriculum choices, and teaching methods vary widely across states and countries. A knowledgeable speaker can break down these differences in a way that's easy to understand, saving families hours of research and confusion.

Second, they build confidence. Many parents worry they're not qualified to teach their children. A homeschooling speaker can address those fears head-on, offering reassurance, real-life examples, and actionable advice. This is especially powerful in communities where homeschooling is less common or misunderstood.

Third, they foster community. Whether it's through a live event or a podcast interview, speakers help connect like-minded families. They create a shared language and set of values that can unite people across geographic and cultural divides.

Finally, they challenge the status quo. Homeschooling speakers often push back against traditional education models, encouraging innovation and customization. This can be a game-changer for families whose kids don't thrive in conventional classrooms.

In short, homeschooling speakers aren't just educators-they're catalysts for change. They help people see what's possible and give them the tools to make it happen.

Homeschooling speakers do more than just talk about education-they help shape how people think about learning outside the classroom. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

1. Educate and Inform
- They explain homeschooling methods, from classical to unschooling.
- They clarify legal requirements, curriculum options, and assessment strategies.
- Example: A speaker might walk parents through how to create a personalized learning plan that meets state standards.

2. Inspire and Motivate
- Through storytelling and real-life examples, they help families believe in their ability to homeschool.
- They often share success stories of homeschooled students who've gone on to thrive in college, entrepreneurship, or the arts.

3. Advocate for Change
- Many speakers work to shift public perception of homeschooling.
- They speak at conferences, appear in media, and write books or blogs to promote educational freedom.

4. Build Community
- They connect parents, educators, and learners through events, webinars, and online groups.
- Some even host their own summits or speaker series to bring voices together.

5. Offer Practical Tools
- From downloadable planners to curriculum reviews, many speakers provide resources to help families get started or level up.
- Some also offer coaching or consulting services for more personalized support.

In essence, homeschooling speakers are educators, advocates, and community builders rolled into one. They bring clarity, encouragement, and expertise to a space that's often misunderstood or overlooked.

Ready to step onto the virtual stage and share your homeschooling insights? Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a homeschooling speaker who gets noticed-and booked.

1. Define Your Niche
- Homeschooling is broad. Are you focused on unschooling, classical education, neurodivergent learners, or homeschooling while traveling? The more specific, the more magnetic you become.
- Tip: Look at successful speakers on Talks.co and see how they position themselves. Clarity attracts the right audience.

2. Build Your Signature Talk
- Craft a compelling presentation that solves a real problem or inspires action. Think: 'How to Homeschool Multiple Ages Without Losing Your Mind' or 'STEM at Home: A Parent's Guide to DIY Labs'.
- Include stories, frameworks, and clear takeaways. Practice it until it flows naturally.

3. Create Your Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a short video clip of you speaking.
- Bonus: Add a downloadable one-sheet for event organizers.

4. Start Small, Then Scale
- Pitch to local homeschooling co-ops, online summits, or Facebook groups. These are great testing grounds.
- Record every talk. Use the footage to build your speaker reel.

5. Connect with Hosts and Event Organizers
- Use Talks.co to find virtual event hosts actively looking for speakers. Personalize your pitch. Highlight how your talk benefits their audience.
- Follow up. Relationships matter more than cold emails.

6. Keep Learning and Iterating
- Watch top homeschooling speakers. Note their delivery, slides, and audience engagement.
- Ask for feedback after every talk. Use it to refine your message and delivery.

Becoming a homeschooling speaker isn't about being perfect-it's about being passionate, prepared, and visible. Start where you are, and grow from there.

Being a homeschooling speaker isn't just about having experience teaching your kids at home. It's about translating that experience into something valuable for others-and presenting it in a way that resonates.

First, you need credibility. That doesn't mean a PhD in education (though that helps in academic circles). It means having real-world homeschooling experience and a clear point of view. Maybe you've homeschooled for 10 years, or maybe you've developed a unique curriculum that blends Montessori with tech. Either way, your lived experience is your credential.

Second, you need a clear message. What's your big idea? Are you advocating for more flexibility in learning? Helping parents navigate homeschooling with special needs? The best speakers have a focused message that solves a problem or inspires action.

Third, you need a platform. This is where tools like Talks.co come in. You can create a speaker page that showcases your bio, topics, testimonials, and a short demo video. This makes it easy for event hosts to find and book you. It also helps you look professional even if you're just starting out.

Fourth, you need presentation skills. You don't have to be Tony Robbins, but you do need to speak clearly, engage your audience, and tell stories that stick. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, or join a local Toastmasters group.

Finally, you need connections. Speaking is a relationship game. Use Talks.co to connect with virtual summit hosts. Join homeschooling forums and Facebook groups. Comment on other speakers' posts. The more visible you are, the more opportunities will come your way.

Yes, homeschooling speakers do get paid-but not always, and not equally. It depends on the event type, your experience level, and how you position yourself.
Let's break it down:
- Free Speaking Gigs: Many new homeschooling speakers start with unpaid talks at co-ops, online summits, or podcasts. These are great for exposure, building your speaker reel, and collecting testimonials.
- Paid Speaking Gigs: As your reputation grows, you can start charging for keynotes, workshops, and panel appearances. Virtual summits, homeschooling expos, and education conferences often pay experienced speakers.
- Hybrid Models: Some events offer affiliate commissions instead of a flat fee. For example, if you speak at a virtual summit and promote it to your audience, you might earn 30-50% of ticket sales from your referrals.
Here's a quick comparison:

Event Type	Typical Pay Range	Notes
Local Co-op Talk	$0 - $100	Often unpaid, but good for practice.
Virtual Summit	$0 - $500 + affiliate	Exposure + potential commissions.
Education Conference	$500 - $5,000	Depends on your niche and experience.
Corporate Workshop	$1,000 - $10,000	Less common, but lucrative.

So yes, homeschooling speakers can get paid-but the key is building your brand, proving your value, and knowing where to look for the right gigs.

Homeschooling speakers earn income through a mix of direct and indirect revenue streams. The smartest ones diversify, so they're not relying on just one source.

Here's how they do it:

1. Speaking Fees
- Paid keynotes, workshops, and panels at homeschooling conferences, virtual summits, and education expos.
- Example: A speaker at the Great Homeschool Convention might earn $1,500 for a 45-minute keynote.

2. Affiliate Marketing
- Many virtual events offer affiliate commissions. Promote the event to your audience and earn a cut of ticket sales.

3. Product Sales
- Sell your own curriculum, eBooks, planners, or online courses during or after your talk.
- Example: A speaker on 'Homeschooling High School' might sell a $97 college prep course.

4. Consulting and Coaching
- Offer 1:1 or group coaching for homeschooling parents. Speaking gigs often lead to client inquiries.
- Pro tip: Mention your coaching offer at the end of your talk with a clear CTA.

5. Sponsorships
- Partner with homeschooling brands to promote their products during your talks or webinars.
- Example: A math curriculum company might pay you to demo their product during your session.

6. Membership Communities
- Build a paid community around your niche. Use your talks to invite attendees to join.
- Think: $20/month for exclusive content, Q&As, and group coaching.

The most successful homeschooling speakers treat speaking as a lead generator, not just a paycheck. They use each stage appearance to build trust, grow their list, and offer next steps that generate revenue.

Homeschooling speakers can earn anywhere from zero to six figures annually, depending on their strategy, niche, and visibility. Here's a breakdown of what income might look like at different stages:
- Beginner (0-1 years)
- Income Range: $0 - $5,000/year
- Most of this comes from free gigs, affiliate commissions, or small product sales. The focus here is on building credibility and content.
- Intermediate (1-3 years)
- Income Range: $5,000 - $30,000/year
- At this stage, speakers start charging for workshops and keynotes. They may also monetize through coaching or digital products.
- Advanced (3+ years)
- Income Range: $30,000 - $100,000+/year
- These speakers have a strong brand, a speaker reel, and recurring invitations. They often combine speaking with online courses, memberships, and consulting.
Here's a sample income model for an established homeschooling speaker:

Revenue Stream	Monthly Income	Annual Total
Speaking Fees (4 gigs)	$4,000	$48,000
Online Course Sales	$1,500	$18,000
Coaching Clients	$1,000	$12,000
Affiliate Commissions	$500	$6,000
Sponsorship Deals	$1,000	$12,000
Total	$8,000	$96,000

So while some homeschooling speakers do it for passion, others turn it into a full-time income stream. The key is to layer your revenue sources and treat it like a business.

If you're planning an event and looking to book a homeschooling speaker, costs can vary widely depending on the speaker's experience, audience size, and event format (virtual vs. in-person).
Here's a general pricing breakdown:

Speaker Level	Virtual Event Fee	In-Person Event Fee	Notes
New/Local Speaker	$0 - $200	$200 - $500	Often unpaid or low-cost for exposure.
Mid-Level Speaker	$200 - $1,000	$500 - $2,000	May include travel expenses.
High-Profile Speaker	$1,000 - $5,000+	$2,000 - $10,000+	Includes authors, influencers, etc.

Factors that affect cost:
- Event Size: Larger audiences justify higher fees.
- Speaker's Reach: If they have a big following, they may charge more.
- Customization: A tailored workshop or keynote costs more than a repeat talk.
- Travel: In-person events may require covering airfare, lodging, and per diem.
Tip: If your budget is tight, consider offering affiliate commissions, product promotion opportunities, or a speaker bundle (e.g., talk + course bundle sales). Many speakers are open to creative compensation models, especially for virtual events.
Platforms like Talks.co make it easy to filter speakers by budget and see what they offer. Always clarify expectations in advance-fees, deliverables, and promotion responsibilities.

- Susan Wise Bauer: Author of 'The Well-Trained Mind', Susan is a pioneer in classical homeschooling. Her talks blend academic rigor with practical advice.
- John Holt: Though no longer living, Holt's influence as an unschooling advocate is unmatched. His lectures in the 1970s and 80s reshaped how parents viewed education.
- Julie Bogart: Creator of Brave Writer, Julie's talks are known for their warmth and emotional resonance. She's a favorite at online summits and podcasts.
- Dr. Brian Ray: Founder of the National Home Education Research Institute, Ray brings data-driven insights to his talks. He's a go-to for policy discussions.
- Andrew Pudewa: Director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, Pudewa's energetic presentations on language arts have made him a staple at major homeschool conventions.
- Charlotte Mason (Historical): While not a speaker in the modern sense, Mason's lectures and writings laid the foundation for a whole educational philosophy still championed today.
- Zan Tyler: A veteran homeschooler and advocate, her talks often focus on legislative rights and encouragement for new homeschoolers.
- Kirk Cameron: Known for his homeschooling advocacy and the 'Homeschool Awakening' documentary, Cameron brings celebrity visibility to the movement.
- Leigh Bortins: Founder of Classical Conversations, Bortins is a frequent speaker on classical education and community-based homeschooling.
- Pat Farenga: Successor to John Holt, Farenga continues to speak on unschooling and learner-led education with a modern twist.

- Julie Bogart (USA): Internationally recognized for her Brave Writer program, Julie speaks at global virtual summits and has a strong following in the UK, Canada, and Australia.
- Dr. Debra Bell (USA): Author of 'The Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling', Debra is a popular speaker at international education conferences and webinars.
- Sally Clarkson (USA/UK): Based in the US and UK, Sally's talks on faith-based homeschooling and parenting have global appeal.
- Sonya Shafer (USA): A Charlotte Mason expert, Sonya's talks are streamed worldwide through Simply Charlotte Mason's online events.
- Marianne Sunderland (USA): Known for her work on homeschooling children with dyslexia, her webinars are widely attended across North America and Europe.
- David and Leigh Bortins (USA): Founders of Classical Conversations, their global network includes speakers and events in over 30 countries.
- Dr. Peter Gray (USA): A psychology professor and unschooling advocate, Gray's TEDx talks and global webinars reach audiences from India to Ireland.
- Lainie Liberti (USA/Mexico): A worldschooling advocate, Lainie speaks at international education conferences and runs global family retreats.
- Kelly Crawford (USA): Her talks on large-family homeschooling and faith-based education are popular in Southeast Asia and Africa through missionary networks.
- Tanya Wright (South Africa): A leader in the African homeschooling movement, Tanya speaks at regional conferences and virtual events across the continent.

Let's unpack some of the most common misconceptions floating around about homeschooling speakers. These aren't just harmless misunderstandings-they can actually hold people back from stepping into this space with confidence.

1. Homeschooling speakers are only relevant to parents who homeschool full-time.
Not true. While homeschooling parents are a key audience, homeschooling speakers often address a much broader crowd: educators exploring alternative models, policymakers, edtech founders, and even corporate HR teams curious about self-directed learning. For example, speakers like Blake Boles have spoken at conferences attended by both homeschoolers and traditional educators looking to innovate.

2. You need a teaching degree to be a homeschooling speaker.
Nope. What matters more is lived experience, insight, and the ability to communicate clearly. Many successful homeschooling speakers are parents, entrepreneurs, or former students who've navigated alternative education paths. Think of someone like Kerry McDonald, who holds a Harvard degree in education but speaks more from a parent-researcher lens than as a certified teacher.

3. Homeschooling speakers just talk about curriculum.
That's a narrow view. Sure, some focus on curriculum design, but others dive into mindset, motivation, legal frameworks, global trends, or even neurodiversity in learning. The scope is wide. For instance, Akilah Richards speaks about unschooling and liberation-based education-not lesson plans.

4. There's no real demand for homeschooling speakers.
Actually, demand is growing. With the rise of micro-schools, learning pods, and hybrid models, more events are looking for speakers who can bridge traditional and nontraditional education. Online summits, podcasts, and even government panels are sourcing voices with homeschooling expertise.

5. You have to be a polished keynote speaker to get started.
Definitely not. Many homeschooling speakers begin by hosting webinars, joining panel discussions, or being podcast guests. It's more about authenticity and insight than stage presence. If you can connect with an audience and offer value, you're in.

So if you've been holding back because of one of these myths, it might be time to rethink what's possible.

When you look at the journeys of successful homeschooling speakers, you'll notice they didn't all follow the same script. Their stories are as diverse as the learners they speak to.

Take Pat Farenga, for example. He stepped into the spotlight after working closely with John Holt, one of the pioneers of the modern homeschooling movement. Farenga didn't just inherit Holt's legacy-he expanded it. Through books, workshops, and speaking gigs, he's helped thousands of families reimagine what learning can look like. His talks often blend personal anecdotes with research, making his message both relatable and credible.

Then there's Hema Rajagopalan, a lesser-known but powerful voice in the Indian homeschooling community. She started out by organizing local meetups for parents in Chennai who were curious about alternative education. Over time, her ability to articulate the cultural nuances of homeschooling in India led to invitations to speak at regional education forums and international virtual summits. Her talks often touch on how traditional Indian values can coexist with modern self-directed learning.

Another standout is Blake Boles. He began as a writer and adventure travel organizer for teens in alternative education. His books gained traction, but it was his engaging, story-driven talks that really built his reputation. He's spoken at events across North America and Europe, often weaving in tales from his road trips with unschoolers and gap-year students. His style is informal, but his message is sharp: learning doesn't have to be confined to classrooms.

These stories show that there's no one path to becoming a homeschooling speaker. Whether you come from academia, grassroots organizing, or experiential learning, what matters is your ability to connect, inspire, and offer a fresh perspective. And more often than not, it starts with sharing your story in a way that resonates beyond your immediate circle.

So where is this all heading? Homeschooling speakers are stepping into a much bigger arena than they were even five years ago. As education models diversify and digital platforms explode, the role of these speakers is evolving fast.

One trend that's gaining momentum is the rise of global homeschooling narratives. Speakers who can address cross-cultural education models-like how homeschooling looks in Kenya versus Canada-are in high demand. Audiences are hungry for diverse perspectives, especially as more families adopt hybrid or nomadic lifestyles.

Another shift: the integration of tech. Homeschooling speakers who can speak intelligently about AI in education, digital portfolios, or decentralized learning platforms are getting booked more often. Think of it this way: if you can explain how ChatGPT might support a 12-year-old's self-directed learning, you're already ahead of the curve.

Here are a few key trends to watch:

- Micro-audiences and niche summits. Instead of general homeschooling conferences, we're seeing events focused on neurodivergent learners, unschooling teens, or secular homeschoolers. Speakers who specialize will thrive.
- Virtual-first speaking opportunities. With platforms like Talks.co and HeySummit, speakers can now reach global audiences without hopping on a plane. This also means more competition, so clarity of message matters more than ever.
- Data-backed storytelling. Audiences are asking for more than feel-good anecdotes. Speakers who can combine personal stories with research or case studies are standing out.
- Youth voices on stage. More events are inviting homeschooled teens and young adults to speak. If you're mentoring young learners, consider co-speaking or featuring their stories.

Bottom line: the future for homeschooling speakers is bright, but it's also more specialized and tech-savvy. If you're thinking about stepping into this space, now's the time to sharpen your message and find your niche.

If you're looking to break into the homeschooling speaker scene or level up your current game, the right tools can save you time, boost your credibility, and help you land more gigs. Here's a curated list of platforms and resources to get you started:

1. Talks.co. A matchmaking platform for speakers and podcast hosts. Create a profile, list your topics, and get matched with relevant shows. Tip: Focus your bio on your unique homeschooling angle-whether it's unschooling, neurodiversity, or global education.

2. HeySummit. Ideal for hosting your own virtual events or summits. Many homeschooling speakers use this to build their own audience and invite others to collaborate. Bonus: You can record sessions and repurpose them as lead magnets.

3. Canva. For creating slide decks, social media graphics, and speaker one-sheets. Use their presentation templates to make your visuals pop without hiring a designer.

4. Zoom. Still the go-to for virtual speaking gigs. Pro tip: Invest in a decent mic and lighting setup to look and sound professional. It makes a big difference when event organizers are choosing between speakers.

5. LinkedIn. Not just for resumes. Use it to connect with event organizers, share clips from your talks, and publish thought leadership posts. Join groups focused on alternative education to stay in the loop.

6. Descript. A powerful tool for editing your talk recordings, creating audiograms, and transcribing interviews. Great for repurposing content from your talks into blog posts or social clips.

7. SpeakerHub. A global directory where you can list your speaking profile. It's not homeschooling-specific, but it can help you get found by organizers looking for education experts.

Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, these tools can help you build visibility, streamline your workflow, and connect with the right audiences. Pair them with a clear message and a strong point of view, and you're on your way.