Bringing Education Home

Say hello to Susan Finazzo, the fabulous founder of My Baby Lady and a powerhouse in the world of childbirth education! We’re diving into a delightful and informative dialogue about the art and science of birthing babies and nurturing families. Susan’s journey is a heartwarming tale of personal experience and professional passion. After facing her own birth trauma, she transformed that pain into purpose, becoming a doula and childbirth educator to help others navigate the sometimes murky waters of pregnancy and childbirth. Throughout our conversation, Susan shares how she blends evidence-based education with real-life experiences to empower families. She believes that every family deserves the tools, language, and support to make informed decisions that lead to healthier outcomes. We discuss the critical importance of education starting at home and how her work aims to reduce preventable birth trauma, especially within marginalized communities. The warmth in her voice and the passion behind her mission are palpable as she encourages parents to become their own advocates in the healthcare system. As we explore various themes, from the significance of community support to the challenges of postpartum care, Susan’s insights shine a light on the power of informed decision-making. This episode is not just about childbirth; it’s about building a supportive community where families can thrive. So grab your favorite beverage, get cozy, and join us for a lively chat filled with laughter, wisdom, and a sprinkle of heartfelt stories! Let’s make the journey of parenthood a little brighter together!A gift from our Guest: $250 discount on my virtual doula package to anyone who mentions the code: MLB250. This will be valid for use through 12/2026.I’m Susan Finazzo—childbirth educator, virtual doula, and founder of My Baby Lady. I believe education begins at home, and for families, that starts long before a baby arrives. I teach parents how birth works, how to ask better questions, and how to advocate for safe, respectful care—because confident parents make healthier choices. My work blends evidence-based education, real-life experience, and trauma-informed support to help families feel prepared, not panicked. I’m passionate about reducing preventable birth trauma, improving outcomes (especially for Black and Brown moms), and building community so no parent feels alone. Whether we’re talking pregnancy, birth, postpartum, or parenting with a past, my goal is simple: give families the tools, language, and support they deserve—right where life is happening. @mybabylady on Instagram Susan's Website Bringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kidsFollow us on these socials:FacebookLinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook Group - The Family Learning CircleFacebook Business Page: Vibrant Family EducationSupport Bringing Education HomeCopyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-AvrittThis podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Matt Newnham, the author of the whimsical Space Ranger Fred series, joins us for a delightful chat that’s packed with stories, insights, and a sprinkle of humor. We dig into Matt's journey from the marketing world to the vibrant realm of children's literature, where he found his passion for creating stories that entertain while stealthily educating young minds. You’ll learn about his philosophy that storytelling should primarily be about fun, with a little learning snuck in like a stealthy ninja. He shares how his personal bumps in the road led him to discover his knack for writing and how a simple story about a space ranger took off (pun intended!) and morphed into a beloved series. We also dive into the magical world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) learning and how Matt seamlessly weaves these concepts into his adventures with Fred. It’s not all about equations and formulas; it’s about sparking curiosity and making learning feel like an epic quest. Matt's enthusiasm is contagious as he discusses the importance of hands-on learning and experiential education, emphasizing that kids should feel empowered to explore, make mistakes, and learn from them in a supportive environment. We explore the initiatives he's involved with, including a new methodology called “menturity” that aims to revolutionize how kids learn, emphasizing creativity and practical skills over rote memorization.As we wrap up, Matt leaves us with some golden nuggets of advice for parents on how to inspire their children to be curious, creative, and unafraid to tackle challenges. He shares fun prompts to get kids storytelling and problem-solving, encouraging them to think outside the box. It’s a fun, insightful, and inspiring episode that will make you want to pick up a book, jump in a puddle, and maybe even become a space ranger yourself!A gift from our guest: Free Comic Book on www.spacerangerfred.comMatt Newnham is a British author who writes imaginative stories for children and young adults. He is best known for the Space Ranger Fred series, which blends adventure, humour and gentle STEM learning, and for his growing list of fantasy and middle-grade fiction. With a background in marketing and communications, Matt brings clarity, warmth and curiosity to everything he writes. He lives in West Sussex and believes the best stories should entertain first and quietly teach along the way. Matt's Website Bringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kidsFollow us on these socials:FacebookLinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook Group - The Family Learning CircleFacebook Business Page: Vibrant Family EducationSupport Bringing Education HomeCopyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-AvrittThis podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

If you think entrepreneurship is just for grown-ups, think again! Leah and Melody Ellis are here to flip that notion on its head with their incredible initiative, the Society of Child Entrepreneurs (SoCE). In this episode, we explore how Leah's experience as a mother and educator led her to create a nurturing environment where children can thrive as leaders and entrepreneurs. With Melody, the youngest executive director you’ve ever met, they share their insights on how to cultivate a mindset of problem-solving in kids. From discussing the ‘SoCE Law’ that aims to support child entrepreneurs legally, to the nuts and bolts of teaching financial literacy to young minds, this episode is packed with inspiration! You’ll hear about the challenges of navigating regulations, how to foster creativity without fear of failure, and why it’s crucial to let kids experiment and learn from their mistakes. Get ready to be inspired by the stories of young entrepreneurs who are not just dreaming big but doing big!A gift from our guest: Entrepreneurship Starter Kit Worksheets: https://www.canva.com/design/DAG9knpUcIk/RxxdFGhs27hAAmXZnYTeAw/view?utm_cJoin SoCe Circle here: https://www.skool.com/socecircle/aboutLeah Ellis is a mother of four and the founder of The Society of Child Entrepreneurs (SoCE), a nonprofit dedicated to helping children ages 6–17 build confidence, leadership, and real-world business skills through hands-on learning. Inspired by watching her own children turn everyday ideas into action, Leah created SoCE to prove that children are capable of meaningful leadership right now. Through business fairs, curriculum, and coaching, she helps children launch real ventures, learn financial literacy, and develop resilience through experience, not theory. At the heart of her work is the belief that when kids are trusted with responsibility and supported by community, they rise. Leah’s leadership is rooted in motherhood, creativity, and a commitment to building spaces where children and families can thrive.Leah's Facebook page@societyofchildentrepreneurs on InstagramLeah's WebsiteBringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kidsFollow us on these socials:FacebookLinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook Group - The Family Learning CircleFacebook Business Page: Vibrant Family EducationSupport Bringing Education HomeCopyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-AvrittThis podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Imagine a world where money doesn't grow on trees, but instead, it's a magical concept that kids are just starting to grasp! In this lively chat with Grandma Deb, we dive into the wild world of financial literacy for children. With over 40 years of experience consulting for small businesses, Deb is on a mission to ensure that the next generation understands the value of money. She recounts a pivotal moment when she witnessed kids treating cash like candy, without a clue about its worth. Deb suggests that we start teaching our little ones about money in a fun and engaging way, beginning with the basics like piggy banks and the age-old phrase, 'money doesn’t grow on trees.' This episode is packed with practical tips for parents and educators to help kids learn about earning, saving, and spending wisely. From the importance of teaching values to using everyday moments—like grocery shopping—as learning opportunities, this conversation is a treasure trove of advice for cultivating financial savvy in the next generation. So grab your headphones and get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even rethink your own relationship with money!A gift from our guest: A FREE PDF coloring book for Billy and the Sweet Surprise. Just email me for a copy at [email protected]. Please mention Bringing Education Home podcast.Professionally, Deborah has provided consulting services to privately owned, medium and small business owners for over forty years. Her work took her to 4 continents to share her knowledge and experience and to help businesses grow, improve profitability, and increase their value. Deborah wrote my first book “Success in Small Business” to share the experiences, hopes and dreams of hardworking business owners and their individual path to success. Now, Deborah is now able to spend time with her grandchildren and other young children and finds that our newest generation is missing out on a strong financial education. Kids see money as free (easy to come by), easy to spend (no thought to other options), and not much interest in learning more. In addition, parents find it hard to explain most financial principles. Grandma Deb was born (pen name for the 1st book in a series). Her slogan “Money - how to earn it, save it and spend it wisely” is her primary focus. Deborah's Facebook page Deborah on YouTubeBringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kidsFollow us on these socials:FacebookLinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook Group - The Family Learning CircleFacebook Business Page: Vibrant Family EducationSupport Bringing Education HomeCopyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-AvrittThis podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Let’s talk about a special initiative that’s galloping into our hearts! Operation Horses Heal is not just a nonprofit; it’s a beautiful sanctuary where veterans and their families can find peace and healing through the gentle presence of horses and donkeys. Rooster and Rachael Loucks, the dynamic duo behind this heartfelt organization, share their inspiring journey of how personal loss turned into a powerful mission to support others. They emphasize the importance of community and connection, highlighting stories of veterans who have found joy and solace in their programs. This isn’t your typical therapy; it’s about creating a space where people can learn, share, and grow at their own pace—sometimes even while chopping wood or sharing a laugh around a campfire! They break down the barriers of traditional therapy and show how being surrounded by nature and animals can provide a sense of belonging that’s often missing in the lives of service members. Tune in to hear how you can support this amazing cause, whether through donations or simply spreading the word. Because every little bit helps keep the wheels (or hooves) turning at Operation Horses Heal!We are pleased to be presenting this special episode as part of Podcasthon 2026. Visit https://podcasthon.org to listen to other podcasts featuring other charities like Operation Horses Heal. Guest Bio - Rooster and Rachael Loucks are the co-founders of Operation Horses Heal, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Westboro, WI dedicated to supporting Veterans, active service members, and their immediate families through connection with horses and donkeys. Operation Horses Heal offers equine-assisted activities designed to foster connection, rejuvenation, and personal growth in a peaceful, inclusive outdoor setting—always free for military families. Motivated by a shared belief in the supportive power of animals and community, Rooster and Rachael started the organization in 2021 to create a welcoming space where those who have served could relax, belong, and build meaningful skills and relationships beyond traditional services. Their vision is to enrich lives, reduce isolation, and honor military service one person at a time. Operation Horses Heal’s programs range from individual equine-learning sessions to community events, retreats, and gatherings that strengthen wellbeing and connection for Veterans and their families.Current Major Funding Priorities: Mobile Outreach- Mobile outreach allows Operation Horses Heal to meet Veterans and military families where they are—reducing barriers created by distance, transportation, or mobility limitations. By taking select equine-assisted activities, educational programming, and community engagement opportunities off-site, we can reach rural and underserved areas while expanding awareness of our services. This initiative strengthens partnerships, increases accessibility, and ensures that geography is never a reason someone is unable to participate. Tracked Wheelchair Accessibility- Our tracked wheelchair is essential for inclusive access across our farm and natural terrain. Traditional wheelchairs limit participation on gravel, grass, and uneven ground, creating unintentional barriers. The tracked wheelchair allows participants with mobility challenges to safely engage alongside peers during equine interactions, outdoor activities, and community events. This investment directly supports dignity, independence, and full participation for all who come to Operation Horses Heal. Land Expansion Project- Expanding our land ensures the long-term sustainability of Operation Horses Heal. Additional acreage will allow for safer animal rotation, improved infrastructure, and the development of dedicated spaces for programming, shelter, and accessibility improvements. Moving away from reliance on rented land strengthens operational stability, protects animal welfare, and supports responsible growth—ensuring we can serve current and future generations without interruption.Rachael's Facebook page@operationhorsesheal on InstagramRachael's WebsiteBringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kidsFollow us on these socials:FacebookLinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook Group - The Family Learning CircleFacebook Business Page: Vibrant Family EducationSupport Bringing Education HomeCopyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-AvrittThis podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Imagine diving deep into the world of education with our special guest, Cheryl Wilson, a powerhouse with over 25 years of experience under her belt. Cheryl’s journey, starting from the classroom to launching her business, I Can Learn Anything, is nothing short of inspiring. She's here to spill the tea on the challenges faced by low-performing students, especially during that awkward transition to middle school when kids often feel lost. Trust me, you don’t want to miss her insights on executive functioning skills, which are like the cool secret weapons for kids to take charge of their learning! We’ll explore how Cheryl empowers parents and educators alike to foster those vital study habits that can transform a child’s academic journey from “meh” to “wow!” So grab your headphones and get ready for some enlightening conversations that will have you saying, “I can learn anything!”A gift from our guest: Growth Mindset Resources: ideas, videos, and posters to help your child develop a growth mindset, improving the confidence and motivation to learn https://shorturl.at/rKhgvAs an educator, author, and instructional coach with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Cheryl Wilson has witnessed firsthand the challenges low-performing students face, particularly during the transition to middle school. After retiring in 2020, she launched her business, I Can Learn Anything, to address these challenges head-on. Her focus is on building executive functioning skills in elementary students, empowering them to take control of their learning journey. She works closely with parents, caregivers, and educators to develop effective study habits and self-management essential for academic success. She is very passionate about fostering an environment where every student believes in their ability to learn and grow. Cheryl's Facebook page@CherylWilson7208 on InstagramCheryl's WebsiteBringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kidsFollow us on these socials:FacebookLinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook Group - The Family Learning CircleFacebook Business Page: Vibrant Family EducationSupport Bringing Education HomeCopyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-AvrittThis podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Heather Whidden is the mastermind behind the Frugal Mama community, where frugality meets family-first budgeting in the most delightful way! Picture a cozy space where parents gather to swap saving tips, and you’ve got a vibe that’s all about simplicity and intentional living. Heather, an interest-led homeschooling mama and a former university instructor, makes financial self-care feel like a warm hug. She emphasizes that when both parents and kids are encouraged to follow their curiosity, homes transform into vibrant havens of connection, creativity, and confidence. We dive into this episode with Heather, who shares her wisdom on how families can stretch their resources, simplify finances, and foster daily rhythms that make learning feel as natural as breathing. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about enriching lives and building a home where education is woven into the fabric of everyday life.The conversation takes a turn towards the practical, as Heather reveals how she integrates life skills into homeschooling. She believes in letting kids manage their own time and projects, which sparks a unique kind of learning. Imagine teaching your little ones about budgeting by giving them a small amount to spend at the grocery store! It’s all about allowing kids to navigate their interests while picking up crucial life skills along the way. We explore the importance of gratitude in parenting and how keeping a gratitude journal can shift perspectives and open doors to new possibilities. Heather’s heart-centered approach is not just refreshing; it’s a roadmap for parents who want to embrace a lifestyle of learning and frugality without feeling overwhelmed.As we wrap up, we reflect on the essence of community. Heather shares poignant stories about the support she’s received from her Frugal Mama community, emphasizing how vital it is to connect with others on similar journeys. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooling parent or just dipping your toes into interest-led education, this episode is full of gold nuggets that inspire you to embrace your unique path. So grab your notepad, tune in, and let’s dive into a world where frugality and family flourishing go hand in hand!A gift from our Guest: BUILD A BETTER BUDGET IN 30 DAYShttps://shop.beacons.ai/frugalmamacommunity/bd867133-8e29-44b6-913a-e6f122bcc0d1Heather Whidden is the creator behind the Frugal Mama Community — a space rooted in simple saving tips, family-first budgeting, and intentional living. An interest-led homeschooling mama and former university instructor, Heather blends financial self-care with a whole-life approach to learning. She believes that when children — and parents — follow their curiosity, we create homes rich in connection, creativity, and confidence. Her work helps families simplify their money, stretch what they have, and build daily rhythms that make learning a natural, lifelong part of everyday life. Heather brings a calm, practical, heart-centered perspective to conversations about interest-led education and how it shapes the way we live, grow, and enjoy our families.Heather's Facebook pageHeather's WebsiteBringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kidsFollow us on these socials:FacebookLinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook Group - The Family Learning CircleFacebook Business Page: Vibrant Family EducationSupport Bringing Education HomeCopyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-AvrittThis podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Nan shares her story of battling food cravings and yo-yo dieting for over three decades, illustrating how her struggles led her to discover a profound truth: the real problem isn’t the food itself, but the emotions tied to it. This leads us to the realization that many of us use food as a crutch during stressful times. We dive into the fascinating analogy of a glass—when it’s empty, you can hear the music; when it’s full, the noise is gone. This perfectly encapsulates how we often fill ourselves with food to avoid feeling our emotions. The conversation continues to unpack the idea that falling off the wagon is a normal part of the journey. Instead of punishing ourselves for it, we can embrace these moments as opportunities for growth and learning. Whether it’s a bad day or a moment of weakness, Nan encourages a curious approach rather than a judgmental one, inviting us to explore what triggered those behaviors and how we can cultivate healthier habits moving forward.Guest bio: Nan (short for Nadège Saysana, pronounced Nahn Say-zah-nah) used to be an English teacher in Paris, but now she helps women who lift stop binge-eating and feel proud of their bodies. She knows what it’s like to feel out of control around food, to stress-eat or snack mindlessly. Nan has been there. And now she’s in control.She’s a certified Life and Weight Loss Coach (The Life Coach School and Corinne Crabtree’s No BS Weight Loss University) who helps women enjoy their favorite foods, like chocolate, with zero fear of having too much.At 50, Nan became a bodybuilder, lost three dress sizes, and now feels strong, healthy, and confident. She wants to stay fit for life, just like her 106-year-old grandmother!For over six years, she’s helped women stop overeating, beat cravings and binges, and reach their goals through a simple, kind, mindset-based approach. Her clients lift, eat what works for them, and feel proud of their progress, without deprivation, shame, or obsession.Nan lives in Paris with her husband, two bilingual kids, and her sweet cat Eva. When she’s not coaching, she loves walking around Paris, lifting weights, reading, and watching The Big Bang Theory. She believes change can be simple, fun, and life-changing when you focus on mindset and small healthy habits.A gift from our guest: I've stopped night-time binge-eating for good and I know you can too. Free guide How to stop eating everything after dinner: https://nadege-saysana-coaching.kit.com/nobinge @Nan.Saysana.Coaching on InstagramNadege on YouTubeNadege's WebsiteBringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kidsFollow us on these socials:FacebookLinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook Group - The Family Learning CircleFacebook Business Page: Vibrant Family EducationSupport Bringing Education HomeCopyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-AvrittThis podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Steve Frazier is a lifelong entrepreneur and wellness advocate, best known as the founder of Release the Coffee Cuffs—a transformative program and community helping people break free from caffeine dependence. After owning six restaurants over two decades, fueled by stress and countless cups of coffee, Steve shifted his focus to sustainable energy and behavior change. He earned his MBA from American Intercontinental University and later combined his passions for natural health and the psychology of self-sabotage to write Release the Coffee Cuffs: Winning the Battle with Caffeine. His science-backed, story-driven book and eight-week coaching program empower others to restore focus, calm, and vitality without relying on stimulants. Today, Steve speaks on podcasts and at live events, guiding high achievers to reclaim their natural energy.Steve's Facebook pageSteve on YouTube@ReleaseCofCuffs on XSteve's WebsiteConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevefrazier/A gift from our guest: Effects of Caffeine https://www.releasethecoffeecuffs.com/effects-of-caffeineTools and trackers https://www.releasethecoffeecuffs.com/Tools-and-TrackersIn this engaging episode, we dive deep into the world of caffeine with Steve Frazier, who’s here to spill the beans—pun absolutely intended—on why many of us are unknowingly chained to our coffee cups. With the charm of a seasoned storyteller, Steve shares his own transformation from a caffeine-dependent restaurant owner to a wellness advocate, emphasizing the science behind our beloved stimulant. He discusses how caffeine messes with our sleep cycles, our stress levels, and even our adrenals, making it clear that our morning fix might be more of a morning faux pas. As we laugh and learn, Steve offers practical tips on how to gently wean off caffeine without the dreaded withdrawal headaches. Whether you're a casual sipper or a full-blown caffeine addict, this episode is packed with insights that will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about your coffee habit!Bringing Education Home is an educational podcast brought to you by Kristina and Herb Heagh-Avritt.If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app!Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or their preferred podcast app or online at Bringing Education Home.Sponsored by Vibrant Family Education - creating Happy, Healthy and Successful kidsFollow us on these socials:FacebookLinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook Group - The Family Learning CircleFacebook Business Page: Vibrant Family EducationSupport Bringing Education HomeCopyright 2026 Kristina & Herb Heagh-AvrittThis podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.