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Cultivate: A Veritas Academy Podcast

Cultivate: A Veritas Academy Podcast

By Veritas Academy

Cultivate is the podcast of Veritas Academy, a preschool though 12th grade classical Christian school in Lancaster County, PA. Our mission at Veritas Academy is to cultivate loving, serving, thinking students, and this podcast features discussions that help you and your family be intentional about cultivating good and godly things in your and your child's heart, mind, and life.
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Pilot Episode: What is the point of school?

Cultivate: A Veritas Academy PodcastMay 14, 2022

00:00
22:52
STEM in Classical Christian Schools: Do We Pursue Math & Science Excellence, Too?
Mar 20, 202439:18
Characteristics of a Cultural Revolution: One Woman's Reflections from Her Family's Experience in China
Mar 06, 202401:00:48
Book Recommendations from Veritas Seniors: The Insightful Tastes of Classically Educated Teens

Book Recommendations from Veritas Seniors: The Insightful Tastes of Classically Educated Teens

Our previous episode of Cultivate featured several of our teachers and academic administrators talking about why we put so much stock in reading Great Books here at Veritas (we recommend you listen to it if you haven't yet!).

This week, the conversation continues in a way, this time turning to our students and finding out first hand how the books they've read at school have shaped their lives and their loves.

Listen as our host and Head of School Ty Fischer talks with four current Veritas 12th grade students - Rachel Jacob, Ruthie Reeser, Simon Rickert, and Christian Wenger - about their favorite books they've read here at Veritas, and other literary recommendations.

Not only will you enjoy getting to know these seniors, but you may get ideas for books to read (or rediscover) yourself. For those of you who have younger students at Veritas or another classical Christian school - or for families considering classical Christian education - this episode also enlightens you to some of the "fruit" of a great books education like the one offered here. See a glimpse of what kinds of young men and women that matriculate from Veritas Academy.

Feb 21, 202436:50
Literature, Education, and Reading for the Fun of it: Why We Aim to Help Kids Develop a Love of Great Books
Feb 07, 202448:57
Kindergarten Readiness: What Parents Need to Know, From PreK and Kindergarten Teachers

Kindergarten Readiness: What Parents Need to Know, From PreK and Kindergarten Teachers

"Is my child going to be ready for kindergarten?"

It's a concern we hear from many parents as they begin their process of enrolling their child in Veritas Academy's K-12 school. And while we understand the anxiety that can accompany your first foray into elementary school and beyond, we hope this podcast helps to put your mind at ease!

Hear from our Veritas Preschool Director Meghan Lake and our two kindergarten teachers, Jackie Lake (Meghan's mom) and Laurie Conrad, on:

  • What they look for in students when deciding if they're ready for kindergarten
  • What parents can do to help their child get ready for kindergarten
  • What a day in the life of a kindergartener looks like at Veritas Academy
  • And more!

This episode will not only give you some helpful insight on kindergarten readiness, but also help you get to know our early education faculty and their philosophies, styles, and priorities in teaching!

Jan 23, 202433:36
Dr. Albert Mohler: Christian Thinkers, Biblical Answers for the Hard Questions Of This Generation

Dr. Albert Mohler: Christian Thinkers, Biblical Answers for the Hard Questions Of This Generation

In this first episode back from our Cultivate Christmas break, we bring you a recording of a special presentation that Dr. Albert Mohler - President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Boyce College, and one of the foremost evangelical intellectuals of our time - gave to our secondary students when he was at Veritas Academy for a visit last year.


In his remarks, Dr. Mohler shares his story of how he, as a youth, wrestled with the difficult questions his culture presented; his initial frustration with being unable to find thoughtful Christians who could adequately and intellectually address those questions; and, eventually, his introduction to and connection with the likes of Francis Schaffer and D. James Kennedy who helped awaken his passion for Christian thought and apologetics.


His remarks will encourage parents who have invested in classical Christian education, as he points out the utmost importance for this generation of youth to be equipped with an education that trains them how to wrestle with the hard questions, to thoughtfully pursue and boldly proclaim truth, and to rightly order their affections in line with Christ's heart.


Referenced in this episode:


The Gathering Storm: Secularism, Culture, and the Church by Dr. Albert Mohler


The Briefing: The Daily Podcast of Dr. Albert Mohler

Jan 09, 202458:44
Standing Firm In the Midst of Persecution and Revolution

Standing Firm In the Midst of Persecution and Revolution

Hear a portion of the riveting story of Luminitza Nichols - Veritas mom, pastor, and author of the book From Pain to Purpose: A Young Woman's Journey From a Communist Prison to an American Pulpit. She talks with Ty Fischer about her experience as a child and young adult in Romania during the Revolution, including her harrowing arrest just before the communist regime fell. Lumi shares not only her story, but also her heart for the Lord and how He sustained her through his word and the Church.

Luminitza’s testimony encourages us in America today to also stand firm in our faith and hide God’s word in our hearts. 

Order Luminitza’s book on Amazon here

As mentioned at the end of this episode, we at Veritas would like to gift a copy of Luminitza’s book to the first five people who email us requesting a copy. Please email Veritas Director of Communications Kylee Bowman at kbowman@veritasacademy.com to request your copy (first five, first come, first served!). 

Nov 22, 202329:26
How a Classical Education Prepared Me for the Workforce: Two Alumni Who Took the Career-First Route

How a Classical Education Prepared Me for the Workforce: Two Alumni Who Took the Career-First Route

Our previous episode focused on helping families and students prepare for college - financially, academically, mentally, and more. And while a large majority of Veritas students do go on to get a college degree right after graduation, there are some who opt to go straight into the workforce - and they find that they thrive!

This week, meet Veritas alumni Caleb Ploutz (class of '17) and Clay Martin ('18). These gentlemen opted not to go the college route but rather begin pursuing a career right out of high school, and they share not only how this decision has blessed them, but also how specifically the type of classical education they received at Veritas helped to set them up to succeed in the workforce.

With all the talk of Great Books, philosophy, advanced math, and liberal arts that one may encounter in classical Christian education circles, it may be easy to think that these schools are nothing more than college prep academies, preparing kids to excel in higher learning. And while it is true that the culture and coursework at classical Christian schools like Veritas uniquely equip students to do well in college, the truth is that our goal is to educate the WHOLE person not just for college, but for life. To help them to grow in leadership and wisdom, as loving, serving, thinking people. Caleb and Clay's story illuminates just how that has played out in real life with two people who still see the benefits of their Veritas education in their lives and jobs today.

Nov 08, 202348:19
Preparing Your Child (and Family) For College: Advice From a College Counselor

Preparing Your Child (and Family) For College: Advice From a College Counselor

It's a daunting prospect for many families of high schoolers: the college search process.

Is college the right choice for your child? What type of college will suit them best? How should they go about choosing a major? What if they don't know what career field they want to pursue? How big of a deal are standardized tests? And, of course, how will your family afford the college of your choice?

So many questions and big life decisions surround this process, and our School Counselor and College Counselor Rachel Kiehl has some simple, practical, and hopefully even soothing advice for parents who are starting to think about those next steps beyond high school.

Rachel talks with our Head of School Ty Fischer about common pitfalls she has seen parents and students encounter in the college and career search, answers common questions, and provides advice on how and when they can start shoring up resources for this investment.

Even if you have younger children, this episode will be insightful and give you food for thought, with plans you can put into action now to save you later stress. For families with high schoolers, you will surely find this episode useful on many fronts to help you navigate the college and career search process with your child.

Oct 25, 202346:37
A Low-Tech Education: How the Minimal Use of Technology in Classrooms Can Be a Great Thing

A Low-Tech Education: How the Minimal Use of Technology in Classrooms Can Be a Great Thing

At Veritas Academy, we read books. We use chalkboards. We sit around tables with students and have in-depth discussions.

We get our Grammar School students to retain information by moving and shouting to chants and songs. We write essays - with pencils and paper. And we require all high school students' phones to remain in their lockers for the duration of the school day.

Veritas - like most classical Christian schools around the country - is decidedly a "low-tech" kind of school.

Are we doing our children a disservice by sending them into a high-tech world woefully unprepared to use the latest technology?

In this podcast, Head of School Ty Fischer begs this question to our guests - Graham Dennis, Veritas Dean of Students, and John Hayward, Veritas alumni, former Upper School Dean at Covenant Christian Academy in Harrisburg, and senior pastor at Trinity Presbyterian Church.

Their discussion leads to the resounding conclusion that, no, we most certainly are not impeding our children's ability to thrive in our modern world by limiting their use of technology. In fact, the opposite holds true: we are uniquely preparing them to flourish in their careers, communities, and families by cultivating virtues and skills that many of their peers may sorely be missing.

Listen in to get some thoughtful perspectives, and be inspired on the benefits of a low-tech education!


Resources mentioned in this podcast:

Oct 10, 202351:00
The Battle for the American Mind: A Conversation With David Goodwin

The Battle for the American Mind: A Conversation With David Goodwin

We're excited to launch Season Three of the Cultivate Podcast with this conversation with bestselling author and president of the Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS) David Goodwin, who co-authored the 2022 book Battle for the American Mind: Uprooting a Century of Miseducation.


This episode features enlightening insight into how modern public education as we know it has been driven by the progressive movement for centuries, how the concept of Paideia has been used to form the souls of American children, and how classical Christian schools are responding and preparing a generation to be free thinkers and citizens who represent Christ's kingdom.


Opening our season with a "Battle" topic is fitting, as you will find the theme of courage running as a thread through many of our episodes this school year. Keep listening this season for conversations that challenge us to consider how we will prepare our children and their generation to be courageous in their faith and in speaking and seeking truth, beauty, and goodness.

Sep 26, 202346:59
What is the Point of School? (Pilot Episode Re-Release)

What is the Point of School? (Pilot Episode Re-Release)

We're on the cusp of a new school year at Veritas Academy, and "back to school" season is an appropriate time to consider what is really the point of school? Why do we and our children invest so many thousands of hours (and even dollars) into an education? Is it just so our kids can get a good job someday? To give them something to fill their hours as they grow? To make friends and learn how to function in society?

Friends, a true education is about so much more than this. And we guarantee you, no matter where your child is going to school, their education is about more than just filling their minds with knowledge or preparing them for a job someday. It is, in no small part, helping to form their very souls.

Take some time with us as we listen to a conversation with Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer and Dean of Students Graham Dennis as they unpack what their vision - consistent with a classical Christian vision - of what the purpose of school is in our children's lives.

Aug 30, 202325:23
Punctuating Your Days With Meaning (Re-Release From Season 1)

Punctuating Your Days With Meaning (Re-Release From Season 1)

This episode originally aired in October 2022 as part of our first season of Cultivate. With summer winding down, many of us parents may have a heightened awareness of way our days with our children are spent, as we seek to make the most of this time we have. This conversation may help you think differently - and even Biblically - about how to infuse your family's days with real meaning.


(Original description)

Time is a precious commodity in our families' lives today. Amid the rushing and the fullness of our schedules, it's so important that we consider how we can fill our days with meaningful activity - not just meaningless, utilitarian activity. In this episode Graham Dennis and Ty Fischer discuss how you can (and why you should) find ways to imbue your days with truth, beauty, and goodness, leading to a richer and even more enjoyable life in Christ.



Aug 16, 202331:41
Parenting Teens & Tweens: Relating to Your Older Child With Godly Influence (Re-Release from Season 1)

Parenting Teens & Tweens: Relating to Your Older Child With Godly Influence (Re-Release from Season 1)

This episode originally aired in July 2022 as part of Cultivate Season 1. We're looking forward to sharing this eye-opening, important conversation with you again this summer, to encourage strong, Godly influence and relationships with your older children.


We invite author, pastor, and speaker Dr. Tedd Tripp to talk with our host Ty Fischer about how Christian parents can relate with their older children and teens. Ted's well-known book, Shepherding a Child's Heart, is often remembered for its call on parents to establish Godly, firm but loving authority with their young children, but the second part of the book covers how that relationship changes as our children mature. Ted encourages parents with older children on how to relate with their teenage kids in a way that invites influence over their lives, rather than heavy handed authority, and offers hope for those who worry they've blown it already (hint: it's not too late).

Books referenced:

Shepherding a Child's Heart by Dr. Ted Tripp

It's Not Too Late: Restoring Broken Relationships with Teenage and Adult Children by Margy Tripp

Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations by Alex & Brett Harris


Aug 01, 202339:45
The Power of Communal Meals In Your Family and School Life (Re-Release from Season 1)

The Power of Communal Meals In Your Family and School Life (Re-Release from Season 1)

This episode originally aired in June 2022 as part of Season 1 of Cultivate. For those who are new to the Cultivate podcast, or if you missed this episode, we're excited to share it again!


Backyard barbecues, picnics, family reunions, impromptu gatherings - these are staple part of many of our summers. In classical Christian education, we value incorporating communal meals (we like to call them feasts!) into our school days, and there are many good reasons why your family can and should find ways to integrate regular feasting and fellowship with your friends, relatives, neighbors, church family, etc.


This episode will inspire you to open your doors and tables more often, and even alleviate your frets on whether you have enough time or resources to make more gatherings happen. Katharine Savage of Philadelphia Classical Schools talks with Ty about how regular gatherings have shaped her life, family, church, and school, and give tips on why and you can make it happen in your family, too!  Keeping this rhythm can help your family grow not only relationally with one another and with those around you, but also in Christ.

Jul 18, 202323:53
Lessons From the Beginnings of Classical Christian Education

Lessons From the Beginnings of Classical Christian Education

This episode is a special treat for anyone who either loves classical Christian education, or is fascinated by its rise in popularity, or even someone who is just learning about this unique and wonderful movement in Christian education.

Take a journey back to the very beginning of this era of classical Christian education as we know it - 40 years ago in Moscow, Idaho - with a man who has been instrumental in its founding and growing. Tom Garfield was the first headmaster of the Logos School, which itself was the first American classical Christian school and which started the avalanche of this movement spreading around the nation. A founding board member of the Association for Classical and Christian Schools, and current Dean of Academics at Veritas Press Scholars Academy, his stories and insights will give you a new appreciation for God's hand at work in classical Christian education over the years.

Jun 28, 202349:16
What's So Great About Lewis and Tolkein? Why We Love These Writers and Their Works

What's So Great About Lewis and Tolkein? Why We Love These Writers and Their Works

Looking for some summer reading inspiration for yourself or your children? Two particular 20th century authors are most beloved around the Veritas (and, Christian in general) community: C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein. This episode gives a new perspective on why these authors and their works are so enduring, influential, and simply wonderful.


Listen in on a fun and insightful discussion with Mr. Paul Miller, a local pastor who also teaches 7th, 8th, and 11th grade Omnibus (humanities and Great Books) here at Veritas. Paul's love for Lewis and Tolkein is infectious as he teaches their works in 7th and 8th grade Secondary Omnibus, and this conversation will either ignite an excitement for these authors and thinkers in yourself, or rekindle your interest and inspire you to journey back to Narnia and Middle Earth or pore over Mere Christianity and Miracles.


If you've ever wondered why we bring up these two Brits so often in our classes and discussions - or if you're already an ardent fan of their works - we're pretty sure you'll have great fun listening to Paul talk with our Head of School Ty Fischer about Lewis, Tolkein, and why they belong not only in a school's curriculum, but also on your family's bookshelf.

Jun 14, 202343:58
Prizing the Pre-Political: Raising Up a Generation to Be Engaged Citizens in a Thick Culture
May 31, 202326:29
Sensing God's Calling: From Academia to the Pulpit, A Veritas Alum's Wisdom on Discerning Gifting and Paths

Sensing God's Calling: From Academia to the Pulpit, A Veritas Alum's Wisdom on Discerning Gifting and Paths

It's graduation season, a time rife with not only excitement and anticipation, but also apprehension about next steps - for young adults stepping out into college or careers, and for their parents who look ahead to an uncertain future.


2008 Veritas Academy graduate John Hayward joins Ty Fischer this week to share his story and insight that will help assuage our stress over whether we (or our children) are truly following God's calling on our lives. Come along on his journey from being a classical Christian school teacher and administrator, to seminary, and finally to recently taking the call to ministry, and gain biblical encouragement on what our calling actually is through this conversation.


John took on the role of Senior Pastor at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Harrisburg in 2022. Prior to that, he was the Upper School Dean at Covenant Christian Academy (also in Harrisburg), and also formerly served as a teacher at Veritas Academy after college. His godly perspective gives a glimpse of another facet of the lifelong fruit of classical Christian education, and wisdom for us all as we seek to make God-honoring decisions with our life's work.

May 17, 202347:43
Deep and Wide: A Veritas Graduate Displays the Life-Equipping Breadth of a Classical Education

Deep and Wide: A Veritas Graduate Displays the Life-Equipping Breadth of a Classical Education

She's a gifted artist and musician who is pursuing a medical degree, wrote her senior thesis on a controversial gene editing technology, loves history, and talked effortlessly about Dostoevsky on national television last year.


Veritas 2022 graduate Sarah Jacob is our guest this week, and while her resume snapshot above may seem astonishing, she is one incredible example of how a classical Christian education forms well-rounded, well-equipped students. Her conversation with Mr. Fischer will give you a first-hand glimpse at the merit of a robust liberal arts education that gives students not only an impressive array of skills to serve them for a lifetime, but a vibrant appreciation for a range of subjects that help them be better citizens and disciples of God's kingdom.


If you're considering what type of school you want for your child, or you're a current Veritas parent who'd like to see what the "endgame" might be for your child's education, or you're an educator considering the goal of your school, you will enjoy hearing from this delightful Veritas alum. An 18-year-old who is just as comfortable conversing about great literature and world history as she is about bioethics? That's part of what makes classical Christian school graduates so uniquely prepared not just for a career, but for life.

May 03, 202323:50
Courage in a Cancel Culture With Guest Dr. Robert P. George

Courage in a Cancel Culture With Guest Dr. Robert P. George

Our guest this episode is Dr. Robert P. "Robby" George, renowned public intellectual, legal and constitutional scholar, and McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence at Princeton University, where he also founded and serves as the Director of the James Madison Program for American Ideals and Institutions.


Dr. George was the commencement speaker at Veritas Academy's 2022 graduation ceremony, where he addressed the audience with a talk on Faith, Truth, and Courage. As a prominent scholar and professor whose deeply-held, faith-rooted views often run contrary to many of his peers and contemporaries in higher education, Dr. George has plenty of experience in practicing what he calls his students to do - that is, be determined truth seekers and bold truth speakers.


Don't miss this chance to hear a conversation from this well-known, well-spoken thought leader, as he talks with Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer about what is needed in our society and in the coming generations if we want to see "this great experiment in morally ordered liberty and constitutional government long endure."

Apr 19, 202343:34
Academic Excellence and Christian Devotion: How and Why Families Can Aim For Both

Academic Excellence and Christian Devotion: How and Why Families Can Aim For Both

When did a dichotomy become assumed between academic excellence and Christian devotion? Over time, a mindset has developed that seems to tell us that these two traits can't coexist; that striving for one will compromise the other in our lives.

The Veritas Dean of Math and Science, Rhonda Forbes, talks with our host Ty Fischer about why she sees these two worthwhile objectives - academic excellence and Christian devotion - in our lives as being complimentary to one another and even, in fact, informing each other. Parents should not feel like they have to choose between the two, or that by striving to cultivate one in their child's heart they will rob the other from flourishing. On the contrary, Rhonda will pull back the curtain to show you how, as a Christian, striving for academic excellence can and should deepen our wonder and love for God...and how a deep love for God can result in a desire for greater learning, knowledge of His ways and creation, and excellence in all we do.

Rhonda Forbes, who was an engineer before embarking on her teaching career at Veritas years ago, teaches both upper school math and Great Books (Omnibus) courses deftly. She and her husband Scott have four grown children, all of whom graduated from Veritas Academy.

Apr 04, 202321:22
Giving Middle Schoolers The Tools of Logic: Critical Thinking and Sound Reasoning to Serve Kids for Life

Giving Middle Schoolers The Tools of Logic: Critical Thinking and Sound Reasoning to Serve Kids for Life

Middle schoolers love to argue. We might as well be faithful to equip them to do it well.

In this episode, Veritas Logic teacher Nathaniel Stamper (who also teaches Omnibus, Apologetics, and Junior Thesis) talks with Ty Fischer about why 7th and 8th graders are ready for the challenge and joy of learning logic, how we teach them to apply logic at Veritas, and why this type of education is so important for youth in today's culture.

Maybe you find yourself exasperated with the rampant disinformation presented in the civic realm today. Or, perhaps you're frustrated with seemingly endless debates with your headstrong kids. Or, you wonder whether your children will be swayed like the grass by every argument - sound or not - that presents to them as they grow and go out into the world. This podcast will help you realize the tools needed to equip youth to think critically and stand for truth.

Mar 22, 202327:23
Teaching Young Kids to Love Reading

Teaching Young Kids to Love Reading

Our host and head of school Ty Fischer sits down with longtime Veritas first and second grade teachers Sharon Strawbridge and Deb Chapin to talk about how they instill an excitement that blossoms into a lifelong love for reading into their students, and what factors are important in helping children love to read for the joy of it.

Mar 08, 202329:48
"We Read Dead People:" What Today's Teens Can Learn from Studying the Ancients

"We Read Dead People:" What Today's Teens Can Learn from Studying the Ancients

In the cycle of our core Omnibus curriculum at Veritas, middle and high schoolers get plenty of exposure to the original texts of the great ancient writer and thinks - Plato, Aristotle, Livy, Herodotus, Theucydides and more. In an age where ideas and fads come and go and things are considered outdated within less than a year's (or a month's!) span, how is it valuable for our youth to read, examine, and even enjoy the works of people who have been dead for thousands of years.

It is valuable - immensely so, as a matter of fact. Our host Ty Fischer is joined by Veritas Omnibus teachers Graham Dennis (Dean of Students) and Bruce Etter (Dean of Humane Letters) to walk us through the specific and compelling reasons why this generation of youth benefit from reading "dead people." It may make you want to go pick up and peruse a copy of Plato's Republic or The Odyssey, too!

Feb 22, 202339:33
Economics to the Glory of God: David Bahnsen on Teaching Kids the Dignity of Work
Feb 08, 202335:15
Season 2 Launch, Reveal, and Panel: Cultivating an Educated Citizen

Season 2 Launch, Reveal, and Panel: Cultivating an Educated Citizen

Our Season 2 Pilot Episode is a live recording from this past weekend's Launch Party, which featured a panel discussion with some of our guests who are joining us this upcoming season. Listen in to hear:

  • A reveal of our exciting and diverse season two episodes
  • Insightful and entertaining discussions on why we read "dead people," why education should help students grow to not be "one-topic people," why Tolkein and Lewis are so wonderful, what it means to value the "pre-political," and more
  • A clip about courage and truth from of one of our most anticipated episodes for this season featuring renowned legal scholar Dr. Robert P. "Robby" George
  • A conversation about what it means to cultivate a "well-educated citizen" through education

Panelists include:

  • Ty Fischer, Cultivate host and Veritas Head of School
  • Graham Dennis, Cultivate co-host and Veritas Dean of Students
  • Dan Spanjer, Veritas Principal
  • Rhonda Forbes, Veritas Dean of Math and Science
  • Leslie Bustard, author and vice president of Square Halo Books
Jan 25, 202346:05
A Bonus Poetry Reading: Three Favorite Poems To Enchant Your Soul

A Bonus Poetry Reading: Three Favorite Poems To Enchant Your Soul

Leslie Bustard, our previous episode's guest, shares three of her favorite poems with us, each unique in its own wonderful way. Take a moment to indulge in a little poetry today with Leslie and Ty, and allow these works to help you see the world (and the Lord) with fresh eyes.

If you enjoyed this episode and our previous interview with Leslie on loving poetry, you'll enjoy Square Halo Books' upcoming conference Ordinary Saints - Creativity, Collaboration, and Community coming up on February 17-18, 2023 at the Trust Performing Arts Center in Lancaster. Veritas Academy is a sponsor of this event, which promises to be an enjoyable and inspiring time!

Poems in this episode:

Luci Shaw, The Meaning of Grass (From The Generosity

Seamus Heany, Postscript (From 100 Poems)

Malcolm Guite, The Church's Banquet (From After Prayer)

Also referenced: Malcolm Guite, Sounding the Seasons

***

About Our Guest

Leslie Anne Bustard lives in a century-old row home in Lancaster City with her husband Ned and her two dogs, Pevensie and Milly-Molly-Mandy. They are the parents of three grown daughters. After years of homeschooling, classroom teaching, and producing high school and children’s theater, Leslie now fills her time writing and caring for loved ones. Her most perfect day would be walking somewhere in Northern Ireland where she could, in one day, traverse with Ned over green fields and farmers’ lanes, through breeze-kissed woods, and over rocks and sandy beaches.

Wild Things and Castles in the Sky: A Guide to Choosing the Best Books for Children, co-edited with daughter Carey and friend Théa Rosenburg, was published through Square Halo Books in April 2022. Her second book The Goodness of the Lord in the Land of Living: Selected Poems will be published in 2023.  As vice president of Square Halo, Leslie has developed and hosted their podcast series The Square Halo, as well as planned their conferences. Leslie is a contributor at The Black Barn Online, Story Warren, Anselm Society, and Calla Press. She also shares on her website PoeticUnderpinnings.com.

Jan 18, 202323:48
Poetic Joy: Inspiring a Love for Poetry (and How It Can Enrich Your Family's Lives)

Poetic Joy: Inspiring a Love for Poetry (and How It Can Enrich Your Family's Lives)

In this bonus episode of Cultivate, longtime Veritas friend and guest Leslie Bustard shares with us her passion for poetry and inspires listeners to explore poetry as a way to "help us remember that which would impoverish us to forget."

If you enjoyed this episode, you will love the upcoming Ordinary Saints Conference, February 17-18, produced by Square Halo Books (of which Leslie is Vice President). Veritas Academy is a sponsor of this event, which features a keynote address by poet Malcolm Guite, concert by The Arcadian Wild, and more. More information here.

About Our Guest

Leslie Anne Bustard lives in a century-old row home in Lancaster City with her husband Ned and her two dogs, Pevensie and Milly-Molly-Mandy. They are the parents of three grown daughters. After years of homeschooling, classroom teaching, and producing high school and children’s theater, Leslie now fills her time writing and caring for loved ones. Her most perfect day would be walking somewhere in Northern Ireland where she could, in one day, traverse with Ned over green fields and farmers’ lanes, through breeze-kissed woods, and over rocks and sandy beaches.

Wild Things and Castles in the Sky: A Guide to Choosing the Best Books for Children, co-edited with daughter Carey and friend Théa Rosenburg, was published through Square Halo Books in April 2022. Her second book The Goodness of the Lord in the Land of Living: Selected Poems will be published in 2023.  As vice president of Square Halo, Leslie has developed and hosted their podcast series The Square Halo, as well as planned their conferences. Leslie is a contributor at The Black Barn Online, Story Warren, Anselm Society, and Calla Press. She also shares on her website PoeticUnderpinnings.com.

RESOURCES & LINKS

Poets & Books Mentioned In This Episode:

Further Reading:

  • Two-part essay by Leslie on incorporating poetry in your family's everyday life:
    Part 1
    Part 2
  • Wild Things and Castles in the Sky: A Guide to Choosing the Best Books for Children is an excellent resource for parents
Jan 11, 202347:08
Advent Ep. 5: The Consummation of a Promise
Dec 21, 202219:50
Advent Episode 4: The Enchantment of a Culture

Advent Episode 4: The Enchantment of a Culture

In a culture that is disenchanted in so many ways, Christmas gives us the opportunity to share the wonder and enchantment of God's beautiful story. Graham Dennis, Veritas Dean of Students and host of our special Cultivate Advent series, shows us how some of the symbolism surrounding the Christmas and Advent season point us to the greatest story ever told through Christ's coming to earth. Listen in...and be enchanted all over again with the story of Christmas!

Dec 14, 202216:27
Advent Episode 3: Waiting in the Darkness

Advent Episode 3: Waiting in the Darkness

We feel the darkness of our days so keenly right now - not just the moral and spiritual darkness hovering over our world, but more explicitly the early nightfall and late sunrises of winter. When we're in a place of darkness, we often find ourselves longing for the light, just as Israel was longing for a Messiah. Graham Dennis, Veritas Dean of Students and host of our special five-part Advent podcast series, shows us how, just as we long for light and Israel longed for deliverance, this season of Advent points us to a deeper longer for the coming of our Lord.

Dec 07, 202214:55
The Story of Advent Throughout Scripture: A Transcendent Solution for a Broken World

The Story of Advent Throughout Scripture: A Transcendent Solution for a Broken World

For the second episode of our special Advent series, Graham Dennis talks with Veritas Principal Dan Spanjer, author of the recently-released devotional book Advent Is the Story: Seeing the Nativity Throughout Scripture. Listen in as Graham and Dan discuss how, from Genesis to Revelation, God's redemptive plan of Christ's coming to earth is revealed. For those of us feeling the drudgery of this broken and fallen world, this discussion points to Christ's advent - both his incarnation and birth and his glorious second coming - as the ultimate joyful solution.  Their talk will awaken your wonder and excitement for the transcendent truth, beauty, and goodness of God this season, and help your family glimpse his glory through the traditions and symbols of Advent and Christmas.

Order Dr. Spanjer's book via:

Also referenced during this episode is C.S. Lewis's essay "Talking About Bicycles," which you can read in its entirety here: https://matiane.wordpress.com/2021/09/11/talking-about-bicycles-by-c-s-lewis/



Nov 29, 202220:17
Advent Series: Why Celebrate Advent (and How Your Family Can Honor This Season)?
Nov 23, 202211:48
Punctuating Your Child's Days With Meaning

Punctuating Your Child's Days With Meaning

Time is a precious commodity in our families' lives today. Amid the rushing and the fullness of our schedules, it's so important that we consider how we can fill our days with meaningful activity - not just meaningless, utilitarian activity. In this, our final episode of Season One, Graham Dennis and Ty Fischer discuss how you can (and why you should) find ways to imbue your days with truth, beauty, and goodness, leading to a richer and even more enjoyable life in Christ.

Stay tuned next month for a series of Advent devotional podcasts from Graham Dennis to help you put into practice what we talk about today - that is, punctuating your family's Christmas season with deeper meaning and abiding joy!

Oct 20, 202226:56
Instilling a Heart for Real Service in Our Children

Instilling a Heart for Real Service in Our Children

We pour so much into our kids - as parents and educators alike - and we know that the whole point is for them to be then be able to pour out blessing to others as they go into the world carrying the light of Christ. In this episode, Ty Fischer talks with Veritas Director of Service Anna Martin. We'll get to know some of her story (which includes running an orphanage in Guatemala and fostering a relationship with ministries there) and her heart for caring for the least of these, learn what service initiatives Veritas Academy is instituting, and talk about how what steps parents can take to cultivate a heart of service in their children...a heart that asks "how can I help?" and finds ways to serve well.

Oct 05, 202230:49
How Veritas Prepared Me For Life: Two Graduates' Perspectives

How Veritas Prepared Me For Life: Two Graduates' Perspectives

Meet Johnny and Lily, two of our Class of 2022 graduates, who stopped by to chat with Head of School Ty Fischer before heading off to college about how their different experiences at Veritas shaped and prepared them for the next phase of life. With one coming from the perspective of a student who transferred into Veritas in high school as a junior, and the other who began as a kindergartener and went through all 13 years at Veritas, both guests have unique viewpoints to help you see first hand what a classical Christian education graduate is like.

Sep 21, 202227:12
The Beauty of Mathematics: An Immaterial World of Truth

The Beauty of Mathematics: An Immaterial World of Truth

Sep 07, 202235:34
CRT, Schools, & Christians: Thinking Critically About Polarizing Cultural Conversations

CRT, Schools, & Christians: Thinking Critically About Polarizing Cultural Conversations

We're "going there" in this episode. That is, we're addressing Critical Race Theory and its place in education...while modeling and discussing how we talk about such tough and sensitive issues with those who hold opposing viewpoints. 

Cultivate host and Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer is joined by three other Veritas faculty and administrators to talk about how we can prepare this generation of students to engage in controversial cultural conversations winsomely, respectfully, and effectively. Together, we'll touch on the importance of listening and empathizing with others who think differently from us, the struggle with identity in our culture today, and preparing our kids to understand differing perspectives, build relationships, and still stand firm in Christ.

Our guests this episode:

Dr. Dan Spanjer, Chairman of the Veritas Board, Veritas Principal, and former professor and Chair of the Arts and Sciences Department at Lancaster Bible College

Bruce Etter, Veritas Dean of Academics and Omnibus Teacher

Graham Dennis, Veritas Dean of Students and Omnibus and Rhetoric Teacher

Aug 24, 202238:09
Faith to Face the Abyss: A Veritas Alum's Story

Faith to Face the Abyss: A Veritas Alum's Story

Parents all across the country and within our local school community are gearing up to take their young adult children off to college soon. It's a tumultuous time in anyone's life, and we all hope that our kids can hold fast to the faith they've built while they've been home. This week on our podcast, Veritas alumna Victoria DeWeese talks with Ty Fischer about a particularly turbulent experience she had years ago while attending the University of Virginia, and how that season in her life both rocked and shaped her faith, bringing her to where she is now. The conversation will help enlighten you as to how a classical Christian education, like the one here at Veritas, can help provide students with a strong foundation for their faith in Christ so that they can be better prepared to handle the inevitable rocky paths that lie ahead.

Victoria graduated from Veritas Academy in 2013, studied systems engineering at University of Virginia, and now works as a software engineer. She lives in Lancaster County with her husband and young son. Victoria's mother, Mrs. Rhonda Forbes, is a longtime math and Omnibus teacher at Veritas Academy.

Aug 10, 202228:42
Parenting Teens & Tweens: How to Relate to Your Older Child With Godly Influence & Respect

Parenting Teens & Tweens: How to Relate to Your Older Child With Godly Influence & Respect

We invite author, pastor, and speaker Dr. Tedd Tripp to talk with our host Ty Fischer about how Christian parents can relate with their older children and teens. Ted's well-known book, Shepherding a Child's Heart, is often remembered for its call on parents to establish Godly, firm but loving authority with their young children, but the second part of the book covers how that relationship changes as our children mature. Ted encourages parents with older children on how to relate with their teenage kids in a way that invites influence over their lives, rather than heavy handed authority, and offers hope for those who worry they've blown it already (hint: it's not too late).

Books referenced:

Shepherding a Child's Heart by Dr. Ted Tripp

It's Not Too Late: Restoring Broken Relationships with Teenage and Adult Children by Margy Tripp

Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations by Alex & Brett Harris

Jul 27, 202239:40
Encouraging Broad and Excellent Music Listening Habits in Your Children

Encouraging Broad and Excellent Music Listening Habits in Your Children

Elisa Chodan, Head of the Music Department of Veritas Academy through the end of the 2021-2022 school year, talks with Ty about ways that parents can help their children to not only love good music, but to appreciate all kinds of music. Your whole family will grow and be blessed as you explore genres and take time to admire the gifts and richness that music brings to our lives.

In this podcast, Elisa mentions a book and several music pieces. You can find more information about these here:

Book

Adorning the Dark: Thoughts on Community, Calling, and the Mystery of Making by Andrew Peterson
https://www.amazon.com/Adorning-Dark-Thoughts-Community-Calling/dp/1535949023

Music 

Vivaldi: The Four Seasons
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRxofEmo3HA

Max Richter: Vivaldi's Four Seasons Recomposed
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZobvtM7p9G8

Aaron Copeland: Appalachian Spring
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXV8yO1FucA

Billie Holliday: April in Paris
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F45if_7o10Q

Ri-An: My Father's World
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEXwGumT77k

Jul 13, 202237:38
The Power of Communal Meals in Your Family and School Life

The Power of Communal Meals in Your Family and School Life

As believers, we were created for community. And in a time when face-to-face, IRL conversations and meetups have been too often replaced with virtual conversations (Zoom calls, anyone?), it's crucial that we grasp and embrace continual time around the table with the people in our lives. 

Join us in this inspiring conversation with special guest Katharine Savage, Head of School at Philadelphia Classical School, as she talks with Ty Fischer about the importance of regular communal meals, and how keeping this rhythm can help your family grow not only relationally with one another and with those around you, but also in Christ.

Jun 29, 202222:56
Addicted to Beauty: Taking Time to Appreciate What God Has Made Beautiful

Addicted to Beauty: Taking Time to Appreciate What God Has Made Beautiful

Jun 15, 202242:56
Feeding Your Child's Soul With Truth, Beauty, and Goodness

Feeding Your Child's Soul With Truth, Beauty, and Goodness

Ty Fischer and Graham Dennis unpack the great transcendentals of truth, beauty, and goodness, and how a student's education can point them toward these three worthy values. Listen in as Ty and Graham talk with us about the ways that classical education cultivates students who love and seek that which is true, good, and beautiful all their lives.

May 14, 202219:44
Pilot Episode: What is the point of school?

Pilot Episode: What is the point of school?

Cultivate podcast host and Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer talks with his co-host Graham Dennis, Veritas Dean of Students and Omnibus/Rhetoric Teacher about the question: what is the point of school? Pointing us back to the ancient biblical and Greek concept of "paideia," Ty and Graham talk with us about an education that does more than just teach necessary subjects, but seeks to mature kids and young adults into the fullness of what God has planned for them, and help them rightly order the desires of their hearts for a joyful life of loving, serving, and thinking.

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Cultivate is the podcast of Veritas Academy, a preschool though 12th grade classical Christian school in Lancaster County, PA. Our mission at Veritas Academy is to cultivate loving, serving, thinking students, and this podcast features discussions that help you and your family be intentional about cultivating good and godly things in your and your child's heart, mind, and life.

May 14, 202222:52