The NorthStar Narrative
Join us for inspiration and encouragement through real stories from around the globe. Students, parents, and scholars will share advice on many topics including college, online learning, homeschooling, health, faith, and navigating daily life. #educated To learn more about NorthStar Academy, visit us at nsa.school
Episodes
255 episodes
Parent Advocacy in Education
What happens when an experienced educator steps outside the system—and sees education with fresh eyes?In this powerful episode, we sit down with an education leader whose journey spans public schools, special education, Christian scho...
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48:23
Beloved Discipleship: Moving From Striving To Overflow With Dr. Jodi Hook
We explore how intimacy with God moves us from striving to overflow with Dr. Jodi Hook, former NorthStar teacher and author of Beloved Discipleship. Her stories, research, and practices help students hear God’s voice, quiet perfectionism, and t...
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44:09
Ben's Journey From Selective Mutism To Bold Faith And Service
We share Ben’s journey from selective mutism and to bold faith, deep community, and a calling that blends real estate with ministry. The conversation gets practical on reframing blessing, building godly friendships, and taking back attention fr...
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43:51
How Continual Surrender Shapes Faith, Marriage, and Ministry
We trace a journey from college plans and depression to a daily practice of surrender that reshapes calling, marriage, and local mission. Chana shares life among refugees in Chicago’s West Ridge, why betrothal made theological sense, and how fa...
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37:52
How New Hope Christian Academy Turns Potential Into Purpose
Lionel Cable joins us to share how a Christ-centered, whole child model in Memphis is opening doors for under-resourced families through rigorous academics, deep relationships, and a culture of joy. Lionel walks us through New Hope’s origin, ou...
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46:26
Cultivating Goodness
Laura Barringer shares her journey from kindergarten teacher to co-author with her father of "A Church Called Tov" and "Pivot," exploring how biblical goodness transforms Christian communities.• Tov is the Hebrew word for goodness appea...
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50:28
How Life Experiences Shape Your Ministry
Lorelei Kilmer, a former NorthStar Academy student, shares her journey from being a third culture kid to discovering her calling in campus ministry with the Navigators after college graduation.• Spent three years at North Star Academy w...
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23:23
Faith, Family, and Future: Guiding Students in College Decisions
Tiffany Charles, Director of Admissions at Houston Christian University, shares her expertise and passion for helping students navigate the college admission process through a faith-centered approach. Her journey from homeschooling mom to highe...
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31:44
NorthStar's Next Chapter
NorthStar Academy celebrates a significant milestone with the formation of its first-ever independent governing board while maintaining its 27-year commitment to Christ-centered education and discipleship. The transition marks a new chapter of ...
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42:34
Entrepreneurial Mindset: Preparing Students for Real-World Success
NorthStar Academy introduces Entrepreneurship 1, a course focused on building character, resilience, and real-world readiness rather than just teaching business fundamentals. Jen Sullivan brings her passion for student transformation to this in...
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40:02
How State Voucher Programs Can Expand Your Educational Choices
Arkansas's AR Learns program provides homeschool families with funds that can be used for educational expenses, including NorthStar Academy's global online courses. As an approved service provider, NorthStar offers accredited curriculum aligned...
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16:08
The Evolution of Christian Education
The educational landscape is transforming before our eyes. As Principal Katie Ahmadzai reveals in this illuminating conversation, Christian education has evolved far beyond traditional classrooms into a diverse ecosystem serving each student's ...
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36:47
Building Intentional Teams: From Corporate Wisdom to School Communities
Leadership coach Audrey Boydston shares how intentional collaboration and clear purpose transform teams, drawing from her 25 years of experience across corporate and educational settings.• Moving beyond processes to focus on people and ...
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37:41
Transforming Education Through Entrepreneurial Mindsets
Stephen Carter shares how entrepreneurial education is transforming Christian schools by developing critical skills and purpose-driven mindsets in students. What started as a simple coffee cart has grown into a nationwide movement helping stude...
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24:31
Navigating Advanced Coursework: AP and Dual Credit Options
Dr. Seana Sundermeyer shares her expertise about Advanced Placement and dual credit courses, explaining the differences between these options and offering guidance on how students can choose the right path for their academic journey.• A...
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21:02
Lessons from the Bench
Stephanie welcomes her 9-year-old son Holton to share his basketball journey and the unexpected life lessons from his recent concussion.• Holton's basketball passion and why he'd choose to play against Steph Curry• His dream basketb...
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16:17
Community Unplugged: NorthStar Students Share Their Journey
A heartfelt conversation unfolds as Michaela and Riley share insights from their roles on the NorthStar Academy Student Council. They discuss leadership, community, and the importance of connection within their online academy.• Michaela...
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24:03
Cody Johnson's Leadership and Lifelong Learning Journey
Cody Johnson's journey from student at NorthStar Academy to aspiring diplomat is a testament of faith, adaptability, and the importance of lifelong learning. Through personal stories of travel and growth, he emphasizes embracing opportunities, ...
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37:27
Jungle Adventures, Family Missions, and Divine Encounters
Karen Keagy shares her journey from growing up in the Amazon jungle to becoming a grandmother, highlighting divine encounters and the importance of family legacy. Her stories of adventure, missionary work, and faith inspire listeners to embrace...
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36:53
Fostering Friendships Across Borders
Zoe and Rachel, club coordinators at NorthStar Academy, share their experiences of building community within an online educational environment. They emphasize the importance of connection, leadership, and fostering a sense of belonging through ...
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24:57
Addie and Maia's NSA Journey as Global Student Leaders
Join us as we delve into the heart of NorthStar Academy's community, where Addie and Maia explore their role in student leadership. Listen as they discuss the challenges of communicating in an online school setting and the invaluable lessons le...
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26:30
Finding Peace Through a Grateful Perspective
Embracing gratitude can transform how we navigate life's hardships. Join us as we chat with Tina Tandy on her retirement and discuss the power of thankfulness during tough times. Listen as Tina and Stephanie share heartfelt reflections that ins...
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24:55
The Art of Balancing School and Passion
Step into the vibrant world of student leadership with NorthStar Academy's own Isabelle Phillips and Hallie Griffin, whose remarkable stories promise to inspire and educate. Join us as Isabelle, the Student Council content creator, and Hallie, ...
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19:13
Unlock the Secrets to Scholarships for College with Kristi Steele
We are excited to have Kristi Steele back on today! Kristi brings nearly a decade of experience to the table around college admissions. Discover how she has demystified the scholarship process in her course, "Unlock the Secrets to Scholarships ...
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19:57
Rhianna Ring-Howell: Embracing Individuality through Writing and Community
Rihanna Ring-Howell returns to our podcast, bringing with her a treasure trove of experiences and insights from her journey through writing and life transitions. Graduating from the Author Conservatory in 2024, Rihanna has honed her craft in fi...
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26:40