BECOMING BILINGUAL: The Art of Speaking Spanish

17- Living Spanish: Why I am ditching almost ALL my Spanish textbooks

After collecting over 75 Spanish textbooks and workbooks in 25 years of teaching, I found myself facing a tough reality: I wasn’t actually using them. Despite their glossy pages and perfect layouts, they just didn’t meet the needs of my students—or support the kind of teaching I knew made a real difference.
In this heartfelt and behind-the-scenes episode, I’m sharing why I walked away from traditional Spanish textbooks and how that decision led me to create what I now call a "living Spanish curriculum"—an interactive, evolving, student-centered approach to learning that’s built to serve both students and homeschool parents.
You’ll hear:
The surprising moment a professor told me I was building a “living textbook”
How I taught myself to create video lessons, flashcards, and culturally rich content—without being tech-savvy
Real-life examples of how homeschool families bring Spanish learning to life across subjects and at home
Why it’s okay to let go of the “perfect” curriculum and create something that works for your child
Whether you're a new homeschool parent or have been learning Spanish, this episode will encourage you to think differently about what really works in Spanish education—and remind you that your child doesn’t need perfect resources… they need intentional ones.
👉 📌  Course for Parents- free 5-day Parent Course to help you build a strong Spanish-at-home plan—even if you don’t speak Spanish. 
https://spanish-educational-solutions.teachable.com/p/5-day-parent-course Let’s walk this journey together. You’ve got this.
Explore my FREE DEMOs: 
Spanish 1 course for middle-high school course
https://spanish-educational-solutions.teachable.com/p/spanishonefoundational-demo 
Elementary Curriculum 
 https://spanish-educational-solutions.teachable.com/p/spanish-curriculum-for-elementary-demo 
🔗 Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions I share behind the scene my bilingual homeschooling journey. 
📌Tiktok  https://www.tiktok.com/@spanishsolutions 
📌 Website: https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/  
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more homeschool families teaching Spanish!

16- Beyond Limitations: How Homeschooling Transformed Our Bilingual Family

In this episode, I’m sharing my personal story—not as a Spanish teacher, but as a mom who began homeschooling while still learning English, full of fears and doubts.
You’ll hear three vulnerable moments that shaped our homeschool journey—and how my children became confident, bilingual young adults despite my limitations.
This is for the parent who wonders, “Am I enough?” The answer is SI!!.
 
🎁 Plus, I’m giving you a free 5-day Parent Course to help you build a strong Spanish-at-home plan—even if you don’t speak Spanish.
👉 Get the free course: https://spanish-educational-solutions.teachable.com/p/5-day-parent-course
 
✔️ No fluency required ✔️ For parents of elementary students and teens ✔️ Practical, encouraging, and easy to follow
🎥 Includes:
5 Days- short, focused lessons with actionable steps
Bonus webinars for curriculum planning and teen credit guidance
Tips on mindset, scheduling, learning methods, and more
🔗 Let’s Stay Connected!Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions 
📌Tiktok  https://www.tiktok.com/@spanishsolutions 
📌 Website: https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/  
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more homeschool families teaching Spanish!

15- When Spanish Makes You Anxious: Breaking the Pressure Triangle (NEW)

Does learning Spanish make you nervous? Whether you're a Spanish learner, a homeschooling parent, or a teen, you might have felt the pressure to speak perfectly, avoid mistakes, or keep up with others. You're not alone!
In this episode, Sra. Morato explores:
The Pressure Triangle – Teacher, Peer, and Self-Imposed Pressure
How anxiety blocks language learning and ways to push through
Strategies to reduce fear and build confidence in Spanish
How parents can support their teens in a healthy learning environment
Resources Mentioned:
📢 Now Open! Registration for the 2025-2026 School Year 🎉
High School Spanish Courses – Live support or self-paced options
Elementary Speaking Curriculum – Fun for the whole family!
Learn more at homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com
 
🔗 Let’s Stay Connected!Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions 
📌Tiktok  https://www.tiktok.com/@spanishsolutions 
📌 Website: https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/  
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more homeschool families teaching Spanish!

14- How Studying Spanish in College Led to a Life-Changing Study Abroad in Argentina with Zakkiyya Chase

In this episode, Zakkiyya Chase shares her inspiring journey—from studying Spanish in college to a transformative three-month study abroad in Argentina. She opens up about the challenges of learning Spanish, adapting to Argentina’s unique culture and accent, and the life-changing impact of full immersion.
📢 Note for Parents: This episode touches on sensitive parts of Argentina’s history.
About Our Guest
Author of No Dream Deferred: Why Black and Latino Families Are Choosing Homeschool
Founder of Empowered Home Educators, Inc.
Advocate for homeschooling and language learning
What You’ll Learn:
🎓 How college Spanish prepared her for real-world interactions🌍 The challenges and rewards of studying abroad in Argentina🗣️ How immersion helped her gain confidence in Spanish🍽️ Favorite foods, cultural surprises, and life lessons💡 Encouragement for parents & teens learning Spanish
Connect with Zakkiyya Chase:
🔗 LinkedIn 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zakkiyya-chase 
🌐 Empowered Home Educators https://www.empoweredhomeed.org https://www.facebook.com/empoweredhomeed/ 
📖 No Dream Deferred Book
https://www.amazon.com/No-Dream-Deferred-Families-Homeschool/dp/0997893419 
No Dream Deferred- FREE Excerpt!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1wkSeSNm8nsMGRrUEhPYnVqSzA/view?resourcekey=0-alHdYVFKgn4U8uAt72t83A
 
🔗 Let’s Stay Connected!Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions 📌 Website: https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/ 
 
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more homeschool families teaching Spanish!
 

13- How My Daughter’s Language Struggles Inspired a Spanish Curriculum for Homeschool Families (surprise guest!)

What do you do when your child refuses to speak Spanish? In this episode, I share a deeply personal story about how my youngest daughter, Elizabeth, struggled with Spanish—and how her journey led me to create an elementary Spanish curriculum that actually works for homeschool families.
You'll learn:✅ How to navigate when kids resist speaking Spanish—and how to help them overcome it✅ The surprising role that learning French played in boosting my daughter’s Spanish confidence✅ Tips on how to encourage Spanish learning at home (even if you’re not fluent!)✅ How to approach Spanish learning and methodology during the primary years. ✅ Practical tips to help your child speak Spanish naturally and confidently
If you’re a homeschool parent wondering how to raise a bilingual child or looking for a Spanish curriculum that goes beyond vocabulary lists, this episode is for you!
🔹 Special Guest: My daughter Elizabeth joins me to share her personal experience!
 
Links and resources: 
🚀 Ready to Help Your Child Speak Spanish with Confidence?
Join my FREE Parent Training where I’ll show you how to teach Spanish at home—even if you’re not fluent! 🎉
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.webinarninja.com/automated-webinars/21438/register
 
🔗 Let’s Stay Connected!Follow me for more homeschool Spanish tips, curriculum insights, and fun language-learning strategies! 🎉
📌 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/  📌 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions  📌 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions 📌 Website: https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/ 
👉 Subscribe & Leave a Review!Love this episode? Please take a moment to subscribe and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—it helps us reach more homeschool families teaching Spanish!

12- My story: From Public School Teacher to Online Spanish Educator

Show Notes:
Today, I share my journey from classroom teaching to launching an online Spanish program. We’ll explore:
Key differences between in-person and online learning
Tips for success in online education
The future of online learning
Episode Highlights:
Starting from "Grade Zero" – My journey as an immigrant and educator.
The Path to Online Education – Transitioning from tutoring to teaching online.
Overcoming Challenges – Facing fears of technology and parent resistance.
Founding Spanish Educational Solutions – Supporting homeschool families with online learning.
The Power of Online Learning – Beyond Spanish: time management, independence, and tech skills.
The Future of Education – Why online learning is here to stay and how AI is changing language learning.
Thank You for Listening!
 
Special Invitation for Parents and Teens!
📢 Live Webinar: 
Stop Feeling Overwhelmed by Your Teen’s High School Spanish Requirement!
And Discover a Plan that Works Even if You Don't Speak Spanish
🔗 Sign up now: 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.webinarninja.com/live-webinars/10651485/register 
 
💬 Connect with Me:🌐 spanisheducationalsolutions.com  📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/ 
|📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions
 

11- Global Homeschooling: A Military Mom's Cultural Journey with Natalie Mack

Podcast notes: 
How to prepare your family for seamless transitions to new countries and cultures.
Practical tips for overcoming language barriers and making the most of cultural differences.
Natalie's unique perspective on what culture really means: language, food, values, and the heart of the people.
Powerful lessons learned from traveling to multiple countries and building a global worldview.
Strategies for facing cultural challenges and developing adaptability and resilience.
How to bring the world into your home, even without travel, using books, music, and community engagement.
Insights into the resilience and flexibility of military families that anyone can apply to their own lives.
Ready to embrace cultural adventures? Click "Subscribe" for more inspiring stories and strategies to empower your family's learning journey.
Connect with Natalie and explore resources:
Natalie's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/nataliemackllc/
Military Homeschoolers Association: https://www.facebook.com/militaryhomeschoolersassociation/
Natalie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolnataliemack/
Listen to Natalie's TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyazhnmwkJM
** Check out Natalie's Book:** 101 Tips for Homeschoolers - Loving your homeschool experience
Let's learn and connect! Follow me on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions
Explore our Spanish Curriculum for K-12 ages: https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/

10-Restarting Your Bilingual Journey: 4 Principles to Overcome Overwhelm and Stay Consistent

The holidays are over, and many of us are returning to our routines. If you've taken a break from learning Spanish, you might feel overwhelmed trying to get back on track. But don't worry! In this episode, we're tackling how to restart your bilingual journey with practical strategies to help you avoid feeling stuck or giving up.
Join me as I share 4 powerful principles to ease back into learning, stay consistent, and reignite your passion for becoming bilingual.
Key Points Discussed in This Episode:
Start Small & Remove Guilt and Shame
Why starting light and easy is the best way to rebuild momentum.
The importance of replacing guilt and shame with conviction to stay committed to your vision.
A personal story about how starting small with exercise taught me how to apply this principle to learning Spanish.
Focus on Consistency & Avoid Perfectionism
Perfectionism can lead to procrastination and paralysis.
Embrace short, consistent practice sessions instead of aiming for perfection.
Why "practice makes consistent progress" is a healthier mindset than "practice makes perfect."
Do Hard Things & Reward Yourself
Facing challenges expands your capacity and builds resilience.
The power of visualizing rewards and celebrating progress, both short-term and long-term.
Ideas for rewards that motivate parents, teens, and individual learners.
Ask for Help & Find Support
You don’t have to do this alone—seek out community, teachers, and study partners.
How our resources, including YouTube drills and songs, can make your learning experience more enjoyable and effective.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
YouTube Channel: Spanish Educational Solutions https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions 
Check out fun and engaging drills to help you learn Spanish!
Don’t miss our latest song: El Alfabeto en Español. https://youtu.be/-1PT2vn2RPQ?si=K4XaTOw1BvKDQWaP 
Courses for middle-high school years: Homeschool Spanish Curriculum
 
Let’s Connect!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spanisheducationalsolutions 
Website: spanisheducationalsolutions.com 
Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/ 
https://www.facebook.com/Spanisheducationalsolutions 
Thank you for listening! Happy New Year! ¡Feliz Año Nuevo! Let’s continue growing together on this bilingual journey. 🎉
Hasta luego, amigos!

09- Speaking Spanish through Compassion and Service with Angela Harders

Episode Description:In this inspiring episode, I speak with Angela Harders—international best-selling author, certified special education teacher with a Master’s in Bilingual Education, and founder of PAX Ministries. Angela shares her personal journey to becoming fluent in Spanish, reflecting on how her language skills opened doors to meaningful relationships within the Hispanic community. Parents, please note that we touch on some sensitive topics, so you may want to preview this episode before sharing it with young children. Stay tuned until the end for a brief Spanish lesson to help you connect more confidently with native speakers.
Note: This conversation offers honest insights and may involve sensitive subjects. Parents, please listen first and decide if it’s suitable for younger listeners.
Key Topics Discussed:
Angela’s early start learning Spanish and how it shaped her path.
Highlights from her trip to Guatemala and unexpected cultural lessons.
Effective strategies for learning and improving Spanish skills.
Overcoming challenges and embracing a growth mindset in language acquisition.
Motivating teens to continue their Spanish studies despite difficulties.
The impact of bilingualism on mission work, personal growth, and career opportunities.
The founding of PeacefulWorldSchooler and its inspiration.
Essential Spanish phrases to build trust and make a friendly first impression.
Listen to the end for a short Spanish lesson to boost your everyday conversations!
Resources Mentioned:
https://www.instagram.com/peacefulworldschooler/ 
https://www.tiktok.com/@peacefulworldschooler
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/PeacefulWorldschooler
Parent Webinar for Elementary Years:
How to Give your elementary age children an Authentic Spanish Learning Experience at Home 
Register here 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.webinarninja.com/automated-webinars/21438/register?wid=10446218
To learn more about my K-12 Spanish Online Program for homeschool families visit my website 
https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/
Join our YouTube channel and enjoy our Spanish grammar drills and so much more
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSzeOe9M92Fa6UHxk03yQVw 

08- Holistic Spanish Immersion: Nurturing Language and Life Skills Through Homeschooling with Houlie Duque

Episode Description:
In this episode, I talked with Houlie Duque from HomeschooltoGo to discuss holistic Spanish immersion and how it nurtures both language skills and overall development. Houlie shares her journey as a bilingual program founder, teacher, and homeschooling mom, offering valuable insights for parents supporting Spanish learners. We explore practical strategies for creating immersive experiences, integrating culture, and using nature and emotional development to enhance learning. Plus, stay tuned for a fun Spanish song that’s perfect for children!
Main Points:
The benefits of holistic and bilingual education.
Practical tips for Spanish immersion at home.
The role of project-based learning and Montessori methods in language acquisition.
How culture and emotional development support language learning.
The importance of nature in a child’s learning environment.
Encouragement for teens to embrace speaking Spanish and grammar.
Resources Mentioned:
Here website: https://www.homeschooltogo.org/ 
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/homeschool.togo/ 
La Lechuza Song listen at the end. 
Spinning Inward: Imágenes Guiadas por Maureen Murdock. en Español https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Z-Bb48Y24U
Spinning Inward: Imágenes Guiadas por Maureen Murdock. en English https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Hdkwg-Il_w  
Parent Webinar for Elementary Years:
How to Give your elementary age children an Authentic Spanish Learning Experience at Home 
Register here 
https://spanisheducationalsolutions.webinarninja.com/automated-webinars/21438/register?wid=10446218
To learn more about my K-12 Spanish Online Program for homeschool families visit my website 
https://homeschoolspanishcurriculum.com/
Join our YouTube channel and enjoy our Spanish grammar drills and so much more
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSzeOe9M92Fa6UHxk03yQVw 
Follow us on Instagram 
https://www.instagram.com/spanisheducationalsolutions/