One of the biggest myths I see is that microschools are only for wealthy families. Most families I work with are not rich. They’re resourceful, strategic, and tired of paying the emotional cost of “free” school. Here’s what it actually looks like in real life: 1. Blended funding Families rarely pay 100% out of pocket. They combine things like: • ESAs, vouchers, or scholarships (state-dependent) • part-time enrollment instead of full-time • tutoring or pod days instead of “school replacement” 2. Paying for fewer hours Microschools aren’t 8–3, five days a week. Families often pay for: • 2–3 days a week • mornings only • core academics + community Less time = lower cost. 3. Reallocating money, not adding more Many families stop paying for: • aftercare • tutoring • therapy needed because school was dysregulating • constant curriculum and intervention chasing They redirect that money into something more humane. 4. Flexible work, not no work Parents don’t stop earning. They shift: • remote or hybrid work • multiple income streams • staggered schedules • job sharing or part-time roles This is about work bending, not disappearing. 5. Slow transitions Almost no one jumps overnight. Most families: • start one semester • try one day a week • test a pod before committing • build confidence over time That’s not failure. That’s wisdom. Microschooling isn’t about being rich. It’s about stepping out of the lie that there’s only one way to educate kids and survive financially. If you’re navigating this right now, you’re not behind. You’re early. Drop your state or situation below if you want help thinking through options where you live.

One simple tool that’s helped me (and other founders) stay regulated is a short daily check-in rooted in IFS thinking. Instead of asking “What should I do today?” try asking: Which part of me feels activated right now? Which part is tired or scared? Is there a calm, curious part of me that can lead today? This isn’t about fixing anything. It’s about noticing. When we don’t listen to our parts, they tend to run the show anyway, especially around money, boundaries, and burnout. You can do this in a notebook or notes app in under 5 minutes. Over time, it builds clarity and self-trust, which is essential for sustainable leadership. If you want, share: A part that’s been loud lately. Or a way you’re learning to lead from a calmer place Slow, kind awareness counts as real work.

Running or launching a microschool isn’t just a logistics project. It’s emotional, nervous-system heavy, and often tied to identity, purpose, and money fears. This space is for: Burnout check-ins Money mindset and sustainability fears Capacity questions (what’s actually realistic for you) Boundaries with families, students, and yourself Unlearning hustle and saviorism Redefining “success” in a way you can live with You don’t need to push through here. You get to slow down, tell the truth, and build something that doesn’t cost you your health or joy. If you want, drop a check-in below: What’s feeling heavy What’s feeling aligned One boundary you’re practicing or need help setting This is a long game. You don’t have to run it alone 🤍