SPEAKERS & WORKSHOPS




Our conference  offers an exceptional line-up of speakers with workshops covering a wide variety of topics related to your homeschooling efforts.

We invite conference speakers who present messages of hope and encouragement along with plenty of practical ideas and insight to help you teach, nurture, and develop the gifts in your child.

You'll leave our conference refreshed, re-energized, strengthened, inspired, and full of fresh ideas for your year ahead.

Check out our exciting 2026 Conference featured speaker line-up below! Watch for listings of additional speakers, too,. You'll find them displayed here in the coming weeks. 

CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS
CONFERENCE WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS

On return visits, refresh your browser for the newest versions.

CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS
CONFERENCE WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS

On return visits, refresh your browser for the newest version.

2026 FEATURED Speakers

Click on each featured speaker photo to view biographical information.

ANDREW PUDEWA

iew.com/

ANDREW'S WORKSHOPS

• However Imperfectly
• Cultivating Language Arts PreK-High School
• Renaissance Education
• Nurturing Competent Communicators
• Reading Strategies for the Struggling Learner


HEIDI St. JOHN

heidistjohn.net/

HEIDI'S WORKSHOPS

• The Heart of the Home
• War of the Worldviews
• Legacy & Influence: 3 Ways to Focus on the Now to Influence the Future
• Help & Hope for the Overwhelmed Mom
• Prayers for the Battlefield


KEVIN SWANSON

generations.org/

KEVIN'S WORKSHOPS

• Christ-Centered Homeschooling in the 21st Century
• The 10 Secrets to the Best Education for Your Child
• The Homeschool High School
• A Biblical Worldview for History


2026 Workshop Speakers

Trisha Pull, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Trisha Pull

Trisha Pull has thirteen years of experience teaching at home and is currently home educating five of her six children in grades 7, 8, 9, 11, and 12. In 2025, she joyfully graduated her first student, thereby reducing her teaching load by nearly 17%.

She has used a variety of teaching approaches, because different kids have different learning needs, and she believes that school customized to the individual student is one of the great strengths of homeschooling.

Following Jesus, not by obligation, but as a relationship driven by hearing His voice, is Trisha's goal in all she does.

Trisha has a bachelor's degree in oboe performance and music education.

Her favorite hobbies are music, University of Kansas basketball, tea, strategy board games, and running. Home renovation television shows are one of her vices.

TRISHA'S Workshops

• Homeschooling: Starting Off Right*
• Leveraging Learning Styles*
• Finding Curriculum to Fit Your Family

Start Homeschooling Special Track

Andi Elliott, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Andi Elliott

Andi Elliott is a homeschool consultant, speaker, and founder of Homeschool Builders, helping parents homeschool with confidence, flexibility, and purpose.

A gifted child and entrepreneur herself, Andi understands the challenges and potential of raising children with unique strengths.

She has homeschooled through overwhelming seasons—including caring for a child with terminal illness, experiencing loss, and adopting an older teen—while keeping a thriving homeschool environment.

Andi equips families with practical strategies, tools, and planners to organize their homeschool, prioritize essentials, foster independence, and integrate life skills in children of all ages. 

She inspires parents to embrace intentional planning, flexible strategies, and practical approaches that reduce overwhelm. Her sessions provide guidance to raise confident, capable children while keeping the joy in learning alive.

ANDI'S WORKSHOPS

• Teaching Life Skills
• Beyond the Bubble

Nancy Bjorkman, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker
Nancy Bjorkman

After being a homeschool skeptic, Nancy began homeschooling her four children in 1992, and saw it work.

Now a mentor to homeschooling families, she has spoken at homeschool conferences in over 10 states where she is known for her enthusiasm, energy, and encouragement.

Her favorite times are spent with her growing family, including nine grandchildren.

She and her husband owned HEPPNER’S LEGACY, a homeschool store in Elk River, MN, for 18 years and are now learning what it’s like to have more free time as they make the handoff to the new owners.

Nancy's Workshops

• Where Do I Begin?*
• Exploring Homeschooling Methods*
• Engaging Early Learners

Find Nancy's Handouts HERE

* Starting Homeschool Special Track Workshop

Kerry Williams, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Kerry Williams

Kerry is a devoted mother of four and passionate advocate for homeschooling, with a particular focus on learning styles.

She’s been using RightStart Math since 2010 and believes in fostering a love for math through hands-on, engaging methods.

A lifelong lover of books, Kerry enjoys reading and discovering new titles to share with others.

Along with her husband, she runs a charming bookshop/coffeehouse, where they create a warm, welcoming space for the local community.

When she's not teaching, reading, or managing the shop, Kerry loves to travel and explore new places with her family.

KERRY'S Workshops

• Building a Solid Math Foundation
• Set the Math Worksheets Aside:
Let's Play Games 
• Kids Who Learn Differently & the Parents Who Want Answers

Kathie Morrissey, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Kathie Morrissey

Kathie Morrissey is the mother of 8 children, wife to Alan for 44 years, and a committed homeschooling mom of 31 years.

She is the founder of The Character Corner, where she loves to blog about parenting, family life, homeschooling, and life in general.

Kathie is a popular speaker at homeschool conventions, support groups, and ladies' retreats.Her heart’s desire is to help and encourage parents to be purposeful in raising Godly children with strong Christian character, who walk in purity and have a heart for God.

After 31 years of homeschooling, all eight of Kathie's kids have now graduated. Her greatest encouragement to young moms is to be faithful in teaching and training their kids while leaving the results to God.

KATHIE'S Workshops

• Training Character into Your Children
• Dealing with a Difficult Child
• Managing Multi-Level Teaching

Becky MacCredie, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Becky MacCredie

Becky is a Certified Cognitive Coach at The Nectar Group.

She received her Bachelors of Science in Early Childhood Education with an emphasis in Literacy and Special Education from Youngstown State University. She's a licensed teacher in Ohio, North Carolina, and Maryland.

In addition to spending 14 years as a classroom teacher she has mentored new teachers, provided county-wide professional development for educators, and worked with student teachers.

Becky has also owned a childcare business providing individualized education to the children in her care. She loves making personal connections with her students and creating positive learning experiences for them.

When she isn’t working with families, you can find her baking, decorating cakes, camping with her family in their RV, and reading books. She enjoys singing and has even been a member of an opera company. Mostly, though, she loves spending time with her husband, three kids, and their three fish! 

BECKY'S Workshops

• Beyond ADHD Symptoms

Krisa Winn, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Sonia Strueby

Sonia Strueby is a licensed pediatric speech-language pathologist and the founder and owner of Enrichment Therapy and Learning Center, with locations in Johnston and North Liberty, Iowa. With nearly 25 years of experience, Sonia specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of dyslexia as well as apraxia of speech and other speech-language impairments.  

Early in her career, Sonia chose to work part-time while homeschooling her two daughters. When her youngest was diagnosed with dyslexia, ADD, and visual processing challenges, Sonia dedicated herself to researching and implementing effective interventions. Her pursuit of the best support for her daughter not only led to her daughter’s success but also inspired the creation of her practice as it exists today.

Today, Sonia leads a team of over 30 professionals and is currently developing a reading program designed specifically for parents and educators to use with their students. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys decorating her home, traveling, pilates, and walking.

SONIA'S Workshops

• Making Learning to Read Interactive and Positive: Empowering Parents with Practical Tools
• Mind’s Eye Mastery: Boosting Memory & Comprehension Through Visualization

Scott Woodruff, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker
Scott Woodruff

Scott Woodruff, a follower of Christ since his conversion in 1971, earned his juris doctor degree from the University of Virginia in 1980.

He's worked for HSLDA since 1998, assisting thousands of home educating families in dealings with social workers, police officers, truant officers, principals, superintendents, and prosecuting attorneys.

Currently, he serves at the HSLDA Director of Legal and Legislative Advocacy.

Scott has represented HSLDA members in court and has appeared before many state legislatures to fight against repressive homeschool legislation.

He is a frequent speaker at homeschool conferences and on radio programs across the country.

Scott and his wife, Jane, homeschooled all three of their children.

Scott's Workshop
• Understanding Iowa's Homeschool Law

Start Homeschooling Special Track

Dr. Joe O'Tool, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker
Dr. JOE O'TOOL
Dr. Joe is the founder of Lifestream Brain + Body Clinic, and is a Board-Certified Functional Neurologist, author/speaker, and non-profit leader. While his professional career began as a chiropractor, Dr. Joe's experience coaching high school football for many years, as well as seeking answers for a daughter with neurological needs, led him to pursue his Board Certification in functional neurology, with fellowship training in both concussion rehab and neurodevelopmental disorders.
 
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Joe is a dynamic educator, delivering lectures and seminars on health, leadership, and neurological care.  He is a trusted speaker, known for his engaging, impactful communication and dedication to empowering others.

While Dr. Joe is dedicated to helping bring hope and solutions to patients, his values extend beyond his work. He believes in the importance of personal connection and the power of community. Outside of his professional life, Dr. Joe and his wife, Angie, are actively involved in their local church and other service-oriented ventures and enjoy including their six children—5 girls and 1 boy - in all they do. Dr. Joe approaches his family life with the same commitment and purpose that he brings to his practice: helping others thrive and creating positive, lasting change. He and Angie are both second generation homeschoolers and also serve on the board of Homeschool Iowa.

Dr. Joe's personal motto, “Step up. Change lives. Inspire hope.” reflects his dedication to making a meaningful impact both professionally and personally. Whether caring for his patients, mentoring future leaders, or working alongside his family, Dr. Joe strives to lead with integrity and compassion in all aspects of his life.
DR. JOE'S WorkshopS

• The Seeing Brain:
The Neurology of How Vision
Impacts Learning
• The Listening Brain:
The Neurology of How Communication Methods Impact Learning

Jose Lopez, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Jose Lopez

Jose Lopez is passionate about helping homeschooled students uncover their unique potential and confidently plan for life after homeschooling.

With a master’s degree in education from the University of Louisville, Jose has spent over ten years in higher education, gaining experience in Career Development, College Advising, Dual Credit, and Apprenticeship Studies.

His diverse professional background in corporate sales and human resources, enables him to bridge the gap between education and the professional world.

As the owner of Discover Your WIN, Jose is committed to guiding homeschool students and their families through Christ-centered career exploration, career preparation, and actionable steps toward their goals.

Based in Ankeny, Iowa, Jose and his wife, Lindsy, homeschool their two sons.

Jose's Workshops

* From Freshman to Future:
Essential Resources for Every High School Stage*
* Your Story, Your Future: Crafting Resumes, Interviews & Scholarship Essays**

* High School & Beyond Special Track*
**Teen Track Workshop

Benjamin DeFord, ActorsBible

Ben DEFORD

Ben DeFord is the fifth of six children that his parents successfully (and happily!) homeschooled through high school.

As a kid, Ben loved everything related to biology, and he seriously considered working in the agricultural industry before God directed his steps into teaching, a career that he had not seriously considered to that point.

Ben is a beloved middle school teacher at Des Moines Christian School, where his passion is to help his students find their own love of biology and "all things science."

BEN'S Workshop
  • You CAN Teach Science!
Galadriel Miller, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

GALADRIEL MILLER

Galadriel and her husband, Monte, have homeschooled their six children from the beginning.  Along the way, they discovered that the homeschooling methods they were using did not line up with their philosophy of education.  

A friend introduced Galadriel to Charlotte Mason’s methods, and she found that they were a perfect match!  Their homeschool was revolutionized and they have never looked back.  

These life-giving principles have opened their eyes to beauty and helped them connect to the wonderful gifts of God around them as they walk this educational journey, called “life in Jesus Christ”, together as a family.

Now having graduated three of their children, Galadriel enjoys sharing her knowledge of Charlotte Mason’s philosophy and what she’s learned along the way to bless other homeschooling parents on their journey.

GALADRIEL'S Workshop

• Introduction to the Charlotte Mason Method

Nathan Oppman, Two Rivers Classical Academy

Nathan Oppman

Dr. Nathan Oppman was himself homeschooled and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, a Master’s degree in History, and a Doctorate of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Bob Jones University.

His doctoral dissertation focused on the area of Biblical worldview in young adults who were active in the public policy arena.

He began serving as the headmaster and history & theology instructor at Two Rivers Classical Academy in Des Moines after spending eight years working in the field of public policy, at both the national level in Washington, D.C. and the state level in Des Moines.

Dr. Oppman serves as an adjunct college professor and is a guest speaker at a range of classes, conferences, and seminars for young people. 

NATHAN'S Workshop

• Christian and Classical:
From Math to History

Becca Groves, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

SHERRY FISCELLA

Sherry Fiscella, t-LMHC, NCC, is the mom of two Iowa homeschool graduates and served as a supervising teacher in Iowa for over 20 years.

Sherry is now a clinical mental health counselor and Connected Families parent coach who provides therapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a unique perspective and approach rooted in her background as a Christian educator,

Sherry offers practical ideas to help parents and kids reduce feelings of distress and experience greater purpose, peace, and joy.

SHERRY'S  Workshops

• Connected Families: Disciple that Connects with Your Child's Heart
• Raising Kids to Love God with a Sound Mind
• Communication That Connects (or How to Talk to Humans)*

* Teen Track Workshop

Jeremy Vos, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

JEREMY VOS

Jeremy Vos serves as the Homeschool Iowa Lobbyist. He and his wife, Jodi, are also retired Homeschool Iowa Board Members.

Jeremy and Jodi have been married for over two decades and have four children, two of whom they are still homeschooling.

They have been active in their local homeschool group and also help with our Homeschool Iowa Capitol Day event. 

JEREMY'S Workshop

• Homeschool Iowa Advocacy & Legislative Update

Mandee Hamaan, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker
Mandee Hamann

Mandee Hamann is a businesswoman and former Early Childhood and  Elementary pastor with an additional 10+ years of youth ministry experience alongside her husband, Jeremy.

She is mom to three teenagers, and after her own family struggled with toxic screen issues, she was introduced to ScreenStrong.

The ScreenStrong lifestyle changed everything for her family. Mandee became a ScreenStrong Ambassador and is committed to spreading this powerful message.

She occasionally guest hosts on the ScreenStrong Families Podcast and is a member of the ScreenStrong team as the Ambassador Liaison.

She enjoys training & equipping Ambassadors from all over the globe to spread ScreenStrong's solutions to screen conflicts in the home.

MANDEE'S Workshops

• Kids' Brains and Screens

Ebon Carter, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Ebon Carter

Ebon Carter has been married to his wife, Ranee, for 24 years, and they have two amazing daughters, both of whom are married. Their first grandchild is due to arrive in March 2026.

Ebon has been the Executive Director of Developing Great Relationships for six and a half years.
 
His mission is to be the best Christ follower he can be, and he wants to take as many people to heaven with him as possible!
 
He loves spending time with his family, and also enjoys golf, riding his motorcycle, and reading books on marriage and leadership.
EBON'S Workshop

• Marriage Workshop

Brad Keller, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Brad KELLER

Brad Keller is a husband and father of 5 kiddos ranging from age 8 to 16.

Fueled by his faith, Brad’s career in Corporate America has spanned over 20 years as he’s focused on leading creative teams to deliver solutions that meet business objectives by moving the audience to action.

Throughout his career, Brad has had the privilege to work with some of the largest organizations across the globe in the automotive, financial, industrial and sports industries.

Brad is an accomplished illustrator, artist, and people leader who currently works full-time as Creative Director for a large, local-based health insurance company. He also serves as the Creative Director for War Heroes on Water, a non-profit based in Southern California whose mission is to help combat wounded veterans heal the wounds of war.

BRAD'S Workshop

• Unexpected Impact*

*Teen Track Workshop


Brian Davis, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

LAUREN GIDEON

[website TBA]

Lauren Gideon is the Director of Public Relations and Affairs for Classical Conversations.  She has been a home educator since her first student was born 18 years ago.

She came to Classical Conversations for support when the student count in their home grew beyond what she thought she could navigate on her own. The Foundations curriculum brought their family together and provided a scope and sequence that was not only manageable but always directed their attention to Christ.

Lauren credits her experience as a home educator and as a leader within Classical Conversations for giving her the classical tools to tackle whatever opportunities come her way. In addition to homeschooling her seven children, she co-leads community classes that unpack our nation's founding documents and civic responsibility. However, she is happiest at home, preferably outside with her husband tackling their newest adventure of building a modern homestead.

LAUREN 's Workshop

• Education Savings Accounts [ESAs]


Joni Moede, Homeschool Iowa Conference Speaker

Joni Moede

Joni Moede has been married to her husband, Paul for 33 years. After hearing Ken Ham at the 1999 Homeschool Iowa Conference, they knew they were supposed to homeschool. They had one son and homeschooled him his whole life.

Out of the challenges and rewards of homeschooling, Joni sees the calling to be a mom as the “most important job in the world.” She is the mentoring moms coordinator for HEED and has mentored other moms for many years.

Joni 's Workshop

• Helping Children and Teens Develop their Relationship with God

CLICK HERE for Handout


Nancy Bjorkman

CHAD STEWART

Chad Stewart has been a professional animator in film and television for over 35 years! He’s animated at studios such as Disney and Sony on such films as:: Tarzan,  The Emperor’s New Groove, Fantasia 2000, The Polar Express, Stuart Little 2, and Surf’s Up.

Ten years ago, Chad was inspired to share his knowledge of animation with kids via the wonders of the world wide web, starting The Animation Course, the first online animation class for students ages 11 to 18.

Through this venture, Chad and his wife Kayla have helped over 6000 students explore and learn about animation and filmmaking.

Chad and Kayla's family includes 4 adult birth daughters and 4 adult sons, adopted from Liberia, West Africa. As a family, they completed an over 20-year homeschooling journey!

CHAD'S Workshops

• Hands On! Design Your Own Character*
• Hands On! Animation Flip Book*

   *
TEEN Sessions Workshops


Additional 2023 Speakers

2023 Homeschool Iowa Conference Additional Speakers
ADDITIONAL SPEAKER BIOS & WORKSHOPS

If any of the speakers above have handouts available, 
you'll find them HERE.


If these speakers offer handouts, find them here.

Special Conference Workshop Speakers

 

"Keep up the great work
in choosing such excellent speakers
to come and speak into our lives."

~ Homeschool Iowa Conference Attendee

 


Speaker Inquiries

Speaking at the Homeschool Iowa Conference is by invitation only. Speakers are carefully selected to fit Homeschool Iowa's philosophy, vision, and mission, and to not conflict with the Homeschool Iowa Board of Directors’ biblical worldview. Because of the high volume of speaker inquiries we receive, we are only able to follow up with those we are inviting to speak. If we are interested in having you speak, we will contact you before the year end preceding the scheduled conference date.

Speaker packets should include:

  • Contact information, including email address, phone number, mailing address, company name, and website
  • A list of all proposed workshop titles and descriptions
  • Speaker biography
  • A high-resolution (300dpi) digital photo
  • Any requirements or accommodations you request for your speaking
  • References or listings of previous speaking engagements
  • At least two hour-long recordings of your recently presented workshops

Submit your packet to:

Homeschool Iowa
ATTN: Conference Speaker Coordinator
PO Box 158
Dexter, IA 50070
or to: speakers @homeschooliowa.org

By sending your audio recordings, you are consenting to allow Homeschool Iowa to upload them to a secure site for the speaker committee to access during the review process. Please note that submitted items, including workshop recordings, will not be returned.

Join us at the 2026 Homeschool Iowa Conference!