Guest: Paul McCusker – Paul’s latest project, Hope Springs Audio Drama: https://www.augustineinstitute.org/hopesprings
Sponsor: Homeschool Connections – Award Winning Homeschool Writing Program: https://awa.homeschoolconnections.com/
Episode Description
Award-winning writer and dramatist Paul McCusker joins host Kaitlin Zara for a rich conversation on how storytelling forms the imagination, strengthens family culture, and elevates your homeschool. Drawing from decades of work on Adventures in Odyssey, Augustine Institute Radio Theatre, and his many books, Paul explains why stories matter, how they bypass our defenses, and how parents can intentionally use fiction, audio dramas, oral storytelling, and even family history to educate the heart as well as the mind.
He also addresses the challenges of screens and short attention spans, offering practical ideas for nurturing attention, vocabulary, and critical thinking in an age of distraction.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Paul’s work or new to his storytelling genius, this episode will transform the way you think about the role of story in your homeschool.
Show Notes
Meet Our Guest: Paul McCusker
Paul McCusker is a writer, director, and producer best known for:
- Adventures in Odyssey
- Augustine Institute & Focus on the Family Radio Theatre
- Into the Catacombs, The Adventures of Nick & Sam, The Virtue Chronicles, and more
Website: https://www.paulmccusker.com/
Books: https://catholic.market/books/hope-springs/
Adventures in Odyssey: https://www.adventuresinodyssey.com/
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Why Storytelling Is So Powerful
- Stories bypass defenses and speak to the heart in ways facts cannot.
- Jesus Himself used stories to illuminate truth.
- Kids often perceive the deeper meaning of a story faster than adults.
riverside paul & kaitlin dec 01…
What Makes a Story “Good” for Children?
- Strong characters, a compelling plot, and meaningful themes.
- Stories shouldn’t “talk down” to kids.
- Parents should consider both craft and moral worldview when selecting books.
Storytelling as an Educational Tool
- A well-told story teaches naturally — without sacrificing good writing.
- Stories reveal worldview, morality, and human nature.
- They help children discuss emotions and experiences they might otherwise hide.
Integrating Stories Intentionally in Your Homeschool
- Read-alouds, audio dramas, dramatizations, and family memories all belong in education.
- Storytelling provides context, connection, and a sense of belonging in history.
- Family stories foster identity and gratitude.
Screens, Attention Spans, and Imagination
- The hierarchy of imagination: reading → live storytelling → audio drama → screen.
- The more a medium “fills in,” the less the imagination works.
- Parents must balance devices with imaginative disciplines.
- Meals and family time should be sacred spaces without screens.
How Storytelling Builds Vocabulary & Critical Thinking
- Good authors don’t write down to kids.
- Rich storytelling exposes children to higher-level vocabulary organically.
- Stories help kids analyze motives, consequences, virtue, and vice.
riverside paul & kaitlin dec 01…
Sponsor
Homeschool Connections – Live and recorded online courses taught by experts who love their faith.
Learn more at https://homeschoolconnections.com
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Catholic Homeschool Blog: https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/
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