What are people saying about Thomas Jefferson Education? Click on a title to read the reviews of leaders in education, business and publishing, as well as “regular” moms and dads…

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Thomas Jefferson Education

This is a message homeschoolers need to hear!

“I have read TJEd twice, and I LOVE it! Oliver DeMille voices the need for a generation of leaders to be thoughtfully trained in our homes today. This is a message that homeschoolers need to hear! I don’t know when I’ve seen another book that communicates with such clarity, purpose and vision the powerful potential of homeschool. I find myself nodding my head and marking passages that sound like something I might have said–and DeMille says it so well.

“TJEd gives clarity and purpose to the decision to homeschool, and a template that can be applied by any family to achieve their goals. I refer to it often as a handbook to help me further my own studies, and highly recommend it to anyone interested in quality education. Parents, teachers, and students alike will be energized by this exciting book.”

~Rebecca Kochenderfer, Author of Homeschooling for Success: How Parents Can Create a Superior Education for Their Child, Senior Editor of Homeschool.com (#1 homeschooling site on the web)

Andrew_Pudewa

  The Thomas Jefferson Education materials improved my life…

“Like most homeschooling parents, I found it difficult not to fall into doing “conveyor-belt” education at home, using grades, grade-level materials, and checklists. After several years of doing this, I had successfully helped one of my children go from Core phase into “Hate-of-Learning” phase, where her main goal was to get the “schoolwork” done, as quickly and with as little effort as possible, so she could have her time back. It was awful.

“As I discovered and began to understand the “Seven Keys of Great Teaching” as presented in the Thomas Jefferson Education book (and DeMille’s presentation on the Seven Keys), I realized why I had been so successful at creating a “hate-of-learning” student. Her textbooks were so boring, even I couldn’t stand reading them. We were focused entirely on content, not time. Home education had become so complex, there was no time for simplicity. The results were tedium and frustration. I found that it is very, very hard not to do to my children what was done to me by schools.

“Now, having applied for several years— albeit imperfectly—the “Seven Keys…”, along with many other ideas gleaned from the TJEd book and related materials, my children are thriving. They really don’t know or care what “grade” they are in, and they never say the word “schoolwork” (except by accident). We “study” as a family, and the “Love of Learning” phase is truly exciting.

“My older children have been successful in Great Books programs in college, and I, myself, have taken time to read and study more than I ever would have thought possible. As you might imagine, I am profoundly grateful to Oliver DeMille and his co-authors for opening this world of educational thinking, life to me. It is now my great privilege to be able to speak to parents and teachers around the world, and help them rebuild their education paradigm, pointing them to the same source of wisdom that I was so fortunate to find.”

~Andrew Pudewa, Director of the multi-award winning Institute for Excellence in Writing

…helped my wife and me create a better learning environment for our children

“Oliver and Rachel DeMille have inspired me as a teacher and a parent. Oliver’s book, A Thomas Jefferson Education, has not only helped my wife Laura and I create a better educational environment for our children, but has constantly reminded me that master teachers believe that each child who walks into their classroom is a genius, waiting to be discovered.

“As a co-founder of Acton MBA (as well as the recently launched Acton Academy for children and youth) I believe our future rests on how we inspire the next generation of leaders to educate themselves –- safe from the meddling of ‘assembly-line’ schools. It’s only through the efforts of educators like Oliver and Rachel DeMille that we can hope to safeguard our freedom and prosperity for the next two hundred years.”

~Jeff Sandefer, Founder of Acton Academy and Acton Children’s Business Fair

Tells us how to see what the Founders saw…

“We have known for a long time that it was the extraordinary, far-reaching vision of America’s founding fathers that produced the freest and most powerful nation on earth. What we have not understood, however, is the rigorous educational experience that gave them such remarkable vision. The loss of that knowledge poses a clear and present danger to our generation, because liberty cannot perpetuate itself.

“A Thomas Jefferson Education tells us how to see, in our own day, exactly what the founders saw, and thus how to safeguard and build upon what they created. It’s not a quick or painless prescription, and DeMille doesn’t sugarcoat it. But he does show us, honestly and authoritatively, the price we must pay to remain a free people. “If you are willing to find out what that blessing will cost you and your children, read this book.”

~Andrew M. Allison, Best-selling author of The Real Thomas Jefferson

Mentors and Classics

“When I was young, I had the benefit of having two great mentors: my grandfather, Earl Millett, who was a High Priest in the Mormon Church, a teacher, a farmer, and a businessman; and Larry Austin, who was a Presbyterian Minister, a teacher, and a philosopher. The education I gained from these two men was offered not in classrooms, but in barnyards and offices, in their homes reading the Great Books and playing chess, and talking – often over the drink we all loved, Vernors’ Ginger Ale.

“They taught me how to think for myself, how to make choices, and how maturity and leadership meant learning to be responsible for those choices. But more, they taught me how to think ethically; to understand and appreciate values; and to learn how to approach new ideas with passion and joy. They taught me to be proud of my strengths, and to use those things in which I excelled to learn to overcome my weaknesses. They taught me how to become a leader – and I hoped that I would be able to do so for my own children when the time came.

“To me, the concept of the Thomas Jefferson Education which resonates most strongly is the one I learned from these men: that of classics and mentors, wherein the course of study is customized to the student, utilizing the greatest works of inspiration and learning, and guided by mentors of great integrity and strength of character. To have access not only to others who share this philosophy but also to resources, teaching tools, and most of all, the shared pool of knowledge gained as we all move forward in our education is invaluable.”

~James A. Owen, Best-selling author of Chronicles of the Imaginarium Geographica

stephen_palmer Infinitely more than a curriculum…

“‘Curriculum’ is an educational buzz word, especially with home education. My wife and I wanted more than a simple, regimented curriculum — we sought sound and timeless principles. We wanted a coherent methodology to provide insight and direction, while allowing us to personalize education to the interests and abilities of each of our children.

“We yearned for keys to liberate the natural gifts of our children to prepare them to succeed and to have lasting impact. We wanted to be active participants in and hands-on facilitators of the educational process, rather than strict rule-makers and curriculum-imposers.

“Leadership Education, as outlined by this book, has been our answer, our relief, our guiding light, and our key. It’s given us everything we knew we needed–and far more than we ever realized was necessary.

“It’s pushed us as parents to make education a lifelong process for ourselves — we’ve learned to lead by example, rather than force by dictate. Infinitely more than a curriculum, Leadership Education is a worldview and a way of life that teaches us and our children that, yes, we can and we must make a significant, positive difference in the world. Because of Leadership Education, our family is stronger, happier, more confident, and more at peace.

“Our children are self-motivated with their education and they enjoy learning. Because of this book, we’re more sensitive to their needs and better able to facilitate their growth. We understand better how to guide them with patience and wisdom.

~Stephen Palmer, Co-Founder, KGaps Consulting & The Center for Social Leadership, Best-Selling Co-Author of Killing Sacred Cows: Overcoming the Financial Myths That Are Destroying Your Prosperity

Home more peaceful; children independently creative, more family unity

“I am so grateful for the principles taught in A Thomas Jefferson Education! Because of that book, I’ve had five of my children home with me for the last two years now, and the ‘detox’ process has paid off tremendously.

“Our home is more peaceful, and the children have learned to be independently creative, finding fascination in the simplest things. I feel that if the world were to fall apart all around us today, I’d be at peace knowing I followed my own instinct, and because of it, our family has developed a greater feeling of unity, and a higher awareness of God’s greater purpose for our lives. To me, that’s leadership training.”

~Leslie Householder, Author of The Jackrabbit Factor: Why You Can

We have learned the difference between well-trained and well-educated

“Leadership Education has completely transformed not only our individual learning as parents, but our entire home. It has helped us decide what truly is “foundational” learning. We have also learned the stark difference between being well-trained and well-educated. We have been inspired to become truly educated and discover our personal missions and in turn hope to inspire our children.

“We recognize stages of growth in our children and are ready to help them move to higher levels of independence and empowerment in their own lives. In the short 8 years that we have practiced leadership education in our lives, we have truly embraced the principles it teaches.

“I want to bring up thinkers and leaders. I can’t imagine going back to the old way.”

~Rusty and Becky Bastian, Redmond Inc.

I feel much more confident that I’m doing the right thing…

“We took a spur-of-the-moment decision to homeschool for our 5 and 7-year-old daughters after last Christmas while living in Jordan. I found TJEd this past summer after spending a semester trying out workbooks and other materials I came across. I’ve read TJEd and the Home Companion, and love the philosophy behind TJEd!

“I am now starting to read through classics listed in both books. I never thought I’d be so engrossed with reading the classics. I’m LOVING them! Since homeschooling is unheard of here in Jordan, I’m constantly bombarded by moms to put our girls into school, but now I feel much more confident that I’m doing the right thing and why. I want to bring up leaders and thinkers. I can see much better now that the principles of Leadership Education are the way to foster this.”

-K. M., Amman, Jordan

Few books have resonated so profoundly with me; …given me the courage to take charge of my education…

“The principles in this book and the resulting subsequent journey have deeply changed me and the course of education for me–and my children. The path at times has been difficult, but few books have resonated so profoundly with me, that I could not abandon what I knew to be truth.

“I will forever be grateful that I found this book and that my heart and mind were open to what it had to teach me. It has given me the courage to take charge of my education and to walk an unfamiliar path that has been the salvation for my two special needs children.”

~Janiece Sloan

It’s easy to love this book and its sensibly simple solutions…

“If you’re thinking of home schooling or UNschooling, if you’re thinking of what sort of college you want to go to, if you’re thinking of what really matters in education (certainly not standardized tests, sitting in straight rows, or walking single file down the hall under the watchful eye and ready ruler of the teachers) this will jump-start you into TRUE education.

“It’s a shame it is not required reading for every incoming school board member in every public school in every town in the nation. It’s easy to love this book and its sensibly simple solutions to the educational problems that beset us. Money won’t solve them. More workbooks won’t solve them. More assembly line education won’t solve them. This book will.“

~Gwynn C. Spencer

If I had the money, I’d buy a copy for everyone I know…

“After reading this book, my husband and I decided to implement a Leadership Education in our own home and it’s been exciting to watch our children respond and get excited about learning. Even if you can’t homeschool your children, you can learn from the philosophies in this book and make their education the kind you only dreamed about growing up.

“If I had the money, I’d buy a copy for everyone I know, every college student and every parent walking aimlessly around at homeschool fairs. Enrich your life and your grandchildren’s…leave the legacy you want to leave…BUY THIS BOOK!”

~A. Taylor

For me, these books are classics

“Several years ago I picked up a copy of TJEd after listening to Oliver DeMille speak at a homeschool conference in Williamsburg, VA. My family and I were truly impacted by his words. We cried on the way home as all felt the need to move to a leadership education model in our home.

“Eleven months later our family moved overseas. After arriving in Qatar and finding that we didn’t have libraries or book stores available as promised, I panicked and went back to school at home. We were miserable.

“For me, these books are classics. The information is invaluable in our walk to follow the path of leadership style education.”

~Darla in Qatar

This is a must-read for all parents.

“This is a must-read for all parents. It is inspiring. It has made me motivated to educate not only myself but also my children differently. I am dedicated now to truly becoming educated.”

~Jen Nigbur

Changed the course of my life

“This book changed the course of my life. As a mother, I was plodding through life in survival mode, with little hope that there could be anything more. “Reading A Thomas Jefferson Education gave me hope that there could be more, and courage to do it. The changes that have transpired in my home are immense, and I owe it to the spark that this book ignited inside my heart. Thank you.”

~Rebecca Tobiasson

Life-changing philosophy

“What an inspiring and life-changing philosophy! Thank you for such insightful information! I particularly appreciate the distinction of the Three Systems of Schooling. The direct and easy to understand style gave me the opportunity to step into creating a Leadership Education environment for myself and my family!”

-Nanette Baker

Transformed the lives of my family

“A Thomas Jefferson Education has transformed my life and the lives of my family. This is truly a “classic” to be read over and over again. I learn so much more each time.

“Just this morning, a friend that is new to TJEd and I were discussing how the information in this book hits home. We both felt as if this is what we have been searching for. “We want our children to be prepared for the future and whatever they are meant to do in this life. I really believe that TJEd is the best way to accomplish this. Thank you, thank you, for taking the time and effort to spread this to those across the country!”

-Bente Rodriquez

This will help your marriage, your children, your life

“Proceed with caution: this book is life changing!–for the better, of course. You will want to highlight practically the entire book; but what is more, it is easy to take bits and pieces to implement into your family routines and culture right away. This will help your marriage, your children, your life.”

-Vivian Milius

Gave my rushing motherly mind a swift calm…

“A Thomas Jefferson Education was the book that stopped my rushing motherly mind and gave it a swift calm. I no longer am reading and searching for that philosophy that is right for my family. This one is it.”

-Tabitha Leighton

I never knew learning could be so fun…

“This book has not only changed my homeschool, but also changed MY life. I never knew learning and education could be so fun, not to mention the fact that these principles are so greatly needed in our society. Thank you for your message and for getting so many of us off the conveyor belt!”

-Jennifer Pate

 

 

Leadership Education: The Phases of Learning

…an indispensible key for success

I once heard Oliver DeMille say, “In any arena of life, the key to success is to fully master the basics.” Indeed, this is true. Whenever things are amiss, go back to the basics and there you will find your answer.

This in-depth look into the phases of leadership education is an indispensable key for finding success in understanding and implementing the principles introduced in A Thomas Jefferson Education: Teaching a Generation of Leaders for the Twenty-first Century. More than just a book to read, it is a book to own and to return to again and again.

-Janiece Sloan

…I understood my children more deeply

Thank you for this practical and detailed outline! After studying Leadership Education: The Phases of Learning, I felt as if I understood my children more deeply.

My first introduction to Leadership Education came when my oldest was 18 and my youngest 7. Needless-to-say, we had spent many years on the Conveyor Belt, and this information added depth to the principles of Leadership Education that I could implement and enjoy immediately.

-Nanette Baker

…I love the suggestions for those just beginning the TJEd journey

Leadership Education is for everyone. As the authors tell us, all our youth will be leaders. They may not be in government or politics, but they will be leaders with their friends, their families and those who know them.

We want our children to be able to stand firm and be an inspiration to those around them. We don’t want them to sway with the winds of peer pressure and indecision.

Leadership Education: The Phases of Learning helps explain the stages that everyone needs to go through to fulfill their mission in life (that includes parents, too!). I love that suggestions of activities are included so that those just beginning this TJEd journey can get their feet wet and be mentored along the way.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

-Bente Rodriguez

This is it! The how-to to transform our homes into inspiring places of learning and growth…

Thank you for giving us the next step. After reading TJEd it’s hard to know where to go from there. This is it! The how-to principles that can help those of us who haven’t had a leadership education to transform our homes into inspiring places of learning and growth.

This is a great manual to go along with the Forums and Face to Face with Greatness seminars. Together these three things have helped me achieve the 8th principle – Secure not Stressed!

-Jennifer Pate

Every family needs this incredible book…

“This book has an audacious purpose: the transformation of our families and our classrooms. It teaches no only the philosophy but also the hands-on details of how to effectively educate for leadership. Every family needs this incredible book in their home!”

-Jodie Palmer

 

 

Thomas Jefferson Education for Teens

I’m buying a copy for every member of my family!

This book is so-o-o-o good. I am getting a copy for every single one of my young adult children for Christmas even though all but one are now in their 20s (17, 20, 23, 25, 26, 28). I’m buying a copy for every member of my family! The content is invaluable. I think this book is going to have a huge impact on the young people who read it.”

-Deena Ortiz, founder and organizer of southern California TJEd Forum

Not just a remake; completely new material. What a gift to our teens!

Brilliant! A book on leadership written to the ultimate target audience, the leaders of the next generation! This book is not just a remake of TJEd; it’s completely new material that really speaks to our current needs as parents and educators. Not only will I be recommending it to my students, but to their parents as well. What a gift to our teens, our nation and ourselves!”

-Shawn Crane, former President, LEMI Mentors Association

Easily understood, inspiring to read; the Teen 100 Book List and insights to use it are worth the price of the book!

Oliver DeMille and Shanon Brooks have given insights into the Leadership Education model for teens that are not only easily understood but inspiring to read. Their teachings give credence to my voice as a parent using this model in my home. The Teen 100 Book List and the insights on how to use it are, of themselves, worth the price of the book!”

-Teri Helms, TJEd mom to five boys

Important for parents of teens as well

I have read Thomas Jefferson for Teens and loved the work. I definitely want to share this with my own teens and teens I mentor in my classrooms, both live and online. I really feel the book is important for parents of teens (and future teens) to read, as well. Talking straight to teens empowers them and they almost always rise to the occasion. Thank you for creating this work and speaking with such dignity to the youth.”

-Donna Goff, Founder, Mentoring Our Own

Don’t let the word TEENS fool you…enormous perspective for all ages

This a MUST READ for today’s youth and their parents! Don’t let the word TEENS in the title fool you. This book gives enormous perspective for all ages of people. We live in difficult times, our children have a big task ahead of them. DeMille and Brooks have prescribed usable, inspiring medicine for the maladies of our modern society and written them in a way everyone can understand.”

-Nicholeen Peck, TeachingSelfGovernment.com; author of Parenting a House United

…speaks truth to the soul

Every once in a while a second witness comes along and in one magical moment says something that speaks truth to the soul and the hearer–finally–remembers who he is. That is what Oliver DeMille and Shanon Brooks have done. They remind us who we are and what we’re about.”

-Tiffany Earl, author of Say*Go*Be*Do; Mentor to thousands of youth through LEMI Scholar Projects

 

We’ll definitely be reading it at Williamsburg…

Whether a business plan, a personal schedule, or a wilderness trek plan, great ideas only have results when they are executed. That’s the secret: execution, execution, execution. That’s why this book is so valuable–it gives fun, practical, meaningful ideas and examples that focus on execution. We’ll definitely be reading it at Williamsburg Academy.”

-James C. Ure, Esq., Co-Founder, Williamsburg Academy

Went straight to my heart…

Wow!!!!!! This book is AMAZING! I have read all the others, but with my oldest child just entering the Scholar stage, I was more than a little anxious to see if TJEd would really work. After reading this book, I am more than convinced. I love how it is written to the youth, but that adults can learn just as much from it. There is so much information I needed, explained in a way that went straight to my heart. I have already been raving about it to friends! Thank you so much for taking the time to inspire me!”

-Bente Rodriguez

…great book to guide teens

What a great book to guide teens along the path to greatness! I wish I’d had this book when I was a teen!”

-Jennifer Pate

The Student Whisperer

Here’s what some reviewers have to say about The Student Whisperer:

… engaging, elevating, and packed with insights. The epiphanies just kept coming from start to finish. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is either searching for a mentor, or striving to become one.

~Christine Taylor, homeschooling mother of four

“While reading your personal story, my heart soared with yours on that mountain top. I worried when Rick was sick. My memory raced back with yours as you mourned the loss of your friends and your place among your peers. I cried with you on those nights you cried yourself to sleep. My foot twitched with yours while you were sitting on that couch. My breath was held with all those students while waiting for your mentor to comment on your mission. You do make people feel it. You do make them taste, see, and smell it. You make it so real.”

—Merijane Bench, mother of six

“The night I sat down to begin reading your introductory chapters, it was already 10:30 p.m. I thought I would at least get started with it—at the most spend half an hour. Quite unexpectedly it ‘grabbed’ me and at 1:00 a.m. I finished it. When I went to bed I was alert and in deep thought. It led me to believe that if I follow these steps I will in fact have success in fulfilling my mission. Your stories portray real life difficulties and struggles with The Path and how you overcame them—showing the reader just what a mentor/mentee relationship looks and feels like. It is like seeing video clips of your experiences.”

—Angela Baker, mother of seven

Inspiring and pivotal. In a world where the focus of most teachers and educational organizations is on the curriculum, this work helps mentors focus on the student himself. Whereas most education today is from the outside in…or how to get the curriculum into the student, this work teaches a focus of inside out…finding and bringing out the greatness and talents in the students and using this to inspire and dictate the curriculum. If the root of the word “educate” is to “draw forth” or “bring forth”, then this work promotes education in the truest form of the word.

~Roxane Colburn, current Home Schooling Mother (15 years), and previous Elementary School Teacher

Extraordinary! I felt like I was taken by the hand and quided through a mentoring experience, the joy, the pain, and the growth. I found fresh clarity, inspiration, motivation and direction for my own development as a student and mentor. What other books merely talk about this one does. No matter what I say, it would be an understatement.

~Kelli Poll, mentor and homeschooling parent

This book was just what I needed! I’ve been wondering for quite some time about how to be a more effective mentor and what each kind of mentor really looks like. This book explains both in an informative and entertaining way. [It] has some wonderful exercises to help you become the mentor you have the potential to be. As with all TJEd books thus far, it has inspired me to reach for the next level of understanding and make myself a better person. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to improve their mentoring skills.

~Erica Michaelis

I have always known that my life has a purpose and I have spent most of my life waiting for that purpose to be made known to me. Three years ago, through the guidance of a mentor, I realized that I needed to find out for myself what my mission is. Since that time I have been earnestly studying, pondering, and praying about what my personal mission is, seeking guidance and counsel from a myriad of mentors.

The Student Whisperer is a godsend to me in my quest of understanding for it has provided greater understanding in how the mentoring process works. I feel validated in the choices I have made so far, the tests and trials I have faced, and I know that there will be more – but I also know that they will be worth the effort to see them through. I appreciate this culmination of time, effort, and experience and absolutely recommend these works to everyone who are seeking to fulfill their personal missions, and those who wish to help those who follow to identify and fulfill theirs.”

~ Angela Walters, Austin, Texas; homeschooling mother of 2

Your book has taught me soooo much. I can’t wait to go back with a journal and do the homework!

~Sarah Nuttall Hoopes

Thank you for The Student Whisperer. As we travel through this journey called Leadership Education we find that we can only be truly successful when we discover The Path. This book helps us to not only see the path for ourselves but to become guides and beacons of light that can direct others to travel the path as well. I love the writing assignments and found them very enlightening, helping me to see the types of mentors that I am seeking as well as opening me eyes to the places where I can improve with those that I guide.

~Emily Gray Clawson,
co-founder of Mastering Knighthood: Raising a Hero Generation

I feel a stirring inside me – an awakening of sorts. I have felt it before as well. I have met the roadblocks. I have let them overcome me. I feel overwhelmed as I read this, because I can’t stop thinking of the things I know I should be doing better. But at the same time, I feel a hope and a desire to change. To get out of the ruts. To really solidify my mission and to go after it whole-heartedly.

I want to share this book with so many people. As I continued to read, more and more ideas kept popping into my head. I really think that the more people who read this book, and apply the principles [it] is teaching, the faster we’ll be able to get our country and our lives back on the track that we were meant to be on.

~Kayleen Pemberton

The Student Whisperer is incredible! It has given me a clear vision of how to inspire others. It has given me tools and ideas I can use to be the mentor I want and need to be. Reading Tiffany’s stories was “the icing on the cake”. Tiffany’s own mentoring experience enabled me to see what the relationship between a mentor and mentee looks like. I feel so empowered. Being a great mentor won’t be easy, but now I know, I can do it!

~ Toni Miranda, Glendale Arizona

This is it!!! This is the book I have been waiting for. It inspired me, and I can see how it can make me a better mentor, and I am excited for others to read it and glean from the great ideas.

~Kathy Bruckman

The Student Whisperer is one of the most powerful and inspiring books I have ever read. [It] not only walks you down the path to greatness, it gives you real world tools to start applying in your life immediately. This book should be read by anyone who wants to change the world and make a difference to those around them! It is already becoming a classic for me.

~Karena Luerssen, homeschool mom of 5 and mentor to parents

This book should be considered as “The handbook” for anyone who mentors others. I will recommend it to everyone I know that is working to attain a great leadership education.

~Dan Owen is a husband, father, LEMI trained mentor, and self-employed contractor who is working on the liberal arts education he never got

The Student Whisperer reaches the depths of true mentoring, deep into the heart and soul of the matter, encompassing your whole life. This is the most complete guide to mentoring that all homeschoolers should study and implement, empowering not only their children to greatness but the whole family as well. I have no doubt that many Greats will emerge from these practices shared by Oliver DeMille and Tiffany Rhoades Earl.

I have seen great success in not only my six children but in other children as well by implementing the Thomas Jefferson mentoring practices. I highly recommend this book to all parents, teachers and students. The Student Whisperer will inspire you and your family on to greatness!

~Donna Vail

Reading The Student Whisperer was a unique experience – it is a transformational story, a guidebook for mentors, and a journey for the reader as well. It is a book I expect I’ll return to over and over, to learn how to inspire and to be inspired myself. As I followed Tiffany Earl along in her path of seeking and finding a mentor, to finding her mission and becoming a mentor, I was reminded of the times I have also felt The Call; my desires to learn and become and understand bubbled up vigorously inside of me. I could feel the struggle that went on within her, and the struggle and desire in me, too, to find a way to do the hard things, to be who I am meant to be, to seek out a mentor, and to do what it takes to be the mentor my own children need.

I imagine every person has a Call of their own, but most of us have pushed it to the background of our minds for lack of knowing how to answer it; for lack of a mentor or ‘Student Whisperer.’ Many of us have a sense that our children, and all people, for that matter, have a unique and vital purpose in life, yet are at a loss as to how to help draw it out, how to mentor and inspire them. This book not only addresses that missing piece, it beckons us to find a way to get on The Path ourselves, and it offers a beautiful taste of how it feels to be truly mentored.

This book made me feel and see – this is the education I need, the education my children need, and this is how it feels!

~Alysia Humphries, Homeschooling mother of 6 children

The Student Whisperer is an inspiring read. The principles offered here are applicable to anyone on either side of a mentoring relationship. Sharing from their hearts, the authors allow us a peek into their personal lives, with their various challenges and victories, as they’ve traveled The Path in pursuit of The Call.

Armed with concrete how-tos, the reader, upon implementation of these truths, will see drastic improvement and direction of not only his own life but the lives of those he mentors.

This book is a classic and will apply to the businessman and homeschooling mom alike.

~Sarah Coke, Alaska

I was moved beyond words and can’t wait to implement the authors’ strategies, passion and faith into my life, my family and my community service efforts.

~Karianne Lisonbee

I had always hoped against hope that as my children got older, I could just be the mentor they needed–like if I closed my eyes and thought hard enough about it, I could just will myself into being a good mentor. I’m so glad I read this book! Now, I have the confidence and the tools to become the mom and mentor my children need me to be, and that makes me feel like I can take on the world.

~Stacy Nelford, Mother of 3

Thank you for finally putting into words what I have been feeling, reaching for, even catching glimpses of but never quite understanding. I have always felt like a deer in headlights concerning mentoring and this book is gives me the wherewithal to reach the nagging and unrelenting callings within my heart. This book has become such a powerful and immediately hands-on tool in my life that I recommend it to anyone with a Mentoring heart.

~Verena Beckstrand, TJEd mom of 6 kids

Honestly, I wondered if I would be disappointed by this book. I had great expectations. You see, I have known about this upcoming book for years and have greatly anticipated it. I have had many questions, I have sought for more explanation of The Path, more understanding of mentoring, I have been stuck, I have desired to see more of the picture. Could this book really hold what I was looking for?

Happily, this book not only met my expectations, it exceeded my expectations! My epiphanal rate was off the charts. I am anxious to return to its pages. I felt and understood so much more about myself, the process of education, The Path and the function and importance of not just mentors, but Student Whisperers. I appreciate in a new way where I have been, where I am and have a clearer vision of where I am going.

As far as becoming a Student Whisperer, this book pulls no punches. It is going to take time, dedication and work. But it is going to be worth it, so worth it; for the world needs Student Whisperers and as it turns out, anyone can learn to be one if they are willing to go the distance.

~Janiece Sloan, mother of two and beneficiary of Student Whispering

I first heard about the possibility of this book 3 years ago and have been waiting anxiously ever since. I was one of those ‘impatient’ people Dr. DeMille talks about in the book. As I read I was moved by Tiffany’s stories and her writing to share more of my own stories and to write in a different way. Then I started into Book 2 and was confused because it was all about finding out about me instead of mentoring others, and then the light came on. It was “You, Not Them” and I realized first that I needed to understand me before I could mentor others. What a wonderful and paradigm changing experience. It was well worth the wait! I look forward to many read-throughs and many more Whisperer Journals.

~Heather Hansen, wife and homeschool mom

About the Authors

Oliver DeMille

bio_oliverOliver DeMille is the author of best-selling books A Thomas Jefferson Education, The U.S. Constitution and the 196 Indispensable Principles of Freedom, and  other books on education and freedom. He has taught graduate courses on the complete writings of Thomas Jefferson, The Federalist Papers, Aristotle’s Politics and other great classics of liberty. Oliver is a popular keynote speaker, writer and business consultant.

Tiffany Rhoades Earl

Tiffany is the author of SayGoBeDo, Mentor’s Guide, Parent Mentoring, Making Connections (previously published as Inteligro Math), and The Thomas Jefferson Planner, as well as other books and audios on mentoring, education, and impact.

She is the co-founder of Leadership Education Mentoring Institute (LEMI), which develops Commonwealth Schools, promotes families, and mentors others along The Path. Tiffany and her husband Rick (her partner in LEMI) are the parents of five children.

 

 

The Coming Aristocracy: Education and the Future of Freedom

orrin“The political tide of man has ebbed and flowed between tyranny and liberty for thousands of years. Sadly, tyranny has reigned victorious throughout most of recorded history. America’s liberty is a precious gift that must be protected against the encroachments of tyranny. The Coming Aristocracy is a clarion call for all freedom-loving Americans to awaken to our present dangers. Oliver DeMille is a modern-day Founding Father and no patriot’s library is complete without this book!”

—Orrin Woodward, Best-Selling Author, Launching a Leadership Revolution

steved“The Coming Aristocracy is compelling, timely, and vital. With piercing clarity, Oliver DeMille explains our current economic and political systems and resurrects the principles that made America great. Most importantly, he clearly describes what we can do as individuals, families, and communities to right our floundering ship. This may be one of the most important books you’ll read this year.”

—Steve D’Annunzio, Founder and CEO, Mission Driven Advisor

sbrooks“In the 17th Century, Alexis de Tocqueville predicted that America would eventually degenerate into an all-controlling government or aristocracy. In The Coming Aristocracy, Oliver DeMille warns in a crystal clear and no-nonsense style that Tocqueville’s prediction is rapidly becoming a reality. DeMille outlines the probable American leadership and social structure for the next twenty to thirty years, along with the political construct and methods used by prominent behind-the-scenes players to strengthen and maintain their power. He discusses the fall of freedom and the resulting adverse effects. And he pulls no punches when he describes how to reverse this liberty-destroying agenda. The Coming Aristocracy is a virtual treasure map where DeMille’s ‘X’ does mark the spot and the treasure is a life of liberty for our posterity.”

— Shanon Brooks

2009steveclose“At long last — real solutions in the battle for freedom. The Coming Aristocracy boils down complexity to core principles, providing a refreshing, insightful, comprehensive, and ultimately inspiring handbook for solving America’s cultural, political, and economic problems. Its core strength is that it empowers ‘ordinary’ individuals to play an integral role in the process. Discouragement and inaction can be readily discarded by following the liberating and detailed path laid out by Oliver DeMille.”

—Stephen Palmer, Co-Founder, KGaps Consulting & The Center for Social Leadership, Best-Selling Co-Author of Killing Sacred Cows: Overcoming the Financial Myths That Are Destroying Your Prosperity

“It is rare to find such a candid and insightful look at the problems facing America written in plain, common sense language that leaves one not only enlightened but inspired and hopeful. I tire of the sarcastic, cynical commentaries as much as I do the optimistic commentaries that offer no real solutions. The threats to our freedoms are real and now is a time for action, yet zeal without knowledge bears bitter fruits. This book offers a basis for the kind of knowledge necessary to make a difference, complete with references for further study. It is easily one of the most important books I have read this year.”

—Janiece Sloan

“This book has been a wonderful resource for our family since the moment we brought it home. It is clear, concise, and positive. There are so many books out there that predict the demise of our government, but there are few that leave you with a sense that you can change things for the better. I strongly recommend this book to everyone.”

—Michelle Huelle

“Oliver DeMille points out very clearly why the future of our freedom is so precarious right now. So, what do we do about it? If you want some easy pointers that anyone in America can do to help support freedom, and secure a continuation of liberty for ourselves and our posterity, do yourself a favor and check this book out!”

—Laura Dotson

“I am at awe at how many freedoms we have lost because we are not educated. Well-trained, but not educated. DeMille goes into the difference between the two and makes a great case on how the educated aristocracy are gaining back the power that the Founding Fathers fought to be free from.”

—Janae

“This is a great book! DeMille has an accurate handle on where the U.S. is and where it is headed. I highly recommend this book! Wow!”

—Rick

 

The Four Lost American Ideals

…by far the most enlightening, inspirational and life-changing lecture I have ever heard

“How could I have grown up ignorant of these ideals that are so crucial to perpetuating freedom and happiness? Ironically, it is the loss of these very ideals that created that ignorance. Sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know, but that does not exempt you from the consequences of that ignorance.

“This is by far the most enlightening, inspirational and life-changing lecture I have ever heard in a nonreligious setting. I have never been the same since. Greatness resides in each of us and each of us has our part to play. Undoubtedly, our part includes a return to these foundational ideals that made America great.”

-Janiece Sloan

…this lecture was part of my awakening

“Listening to this lecture was part of my awakening to the need for an American Renaissance.

“Oliver DeMille digs past the commonly discussed ideal of freedom, to four additional ideals that are both common sense and deep at the same time. He provides sensible principles and solutions — paths to improve ourselves, our families, our communities, and our country.”

-Sean Elcock

People are hungry for a direction; this recording is a wonderful introduction…

“Being involved in my community on many levels I am constantly meeting people who realize there is something missing in society but, they’re not sure exactly what we have lost. I give them a copy of ‘The 4 Lost American Ideals’ and ask them to come back and tell me what they think.

“People are hungry for direction on what to do, and this recording is a wonderful introduction to the need for Leadership Education for themselves and especially for the children in their lives.”

-Ann Agent

…thorough and refreshing; he has hit the nail on the head

“The ideas Oliver DeMille teaches about freedom and America are thorough and refreshing. Once again he has hit the nail on the head in this inspiring and timely speech.”

-Cathy Ford

As a Canadian, I found [this] message completely relevant to me…

“As a Canadian citizen, I found DeMille’s message completely relevant to me here. Listening to this presentation (especially over and over again) has helped us shift away from some of the numbing effects of living in a liberal socialist country and into greater personal accountability.

“In other words, it helped restore our drive to build and create the future rather than expecting or even easing into the idea that the government provides all.”

-Heather Burton

…fantastic and inspiring; puts our Americanism in perspective

“This fantastic and inspiring lecture on America helps put our Americanism in perspective, and brings boiling to the surface the feelings of real American thought. Oliver DeMille has a way of helping you reach deep within and pull the desires of liberty to the forefront in a way that moves you to action.

“After first being introduced to the thinking of Oliver DeMille, my husband and I set out to become independents, rather than dependents, sought learning and education to become liber, have recognized the need for public virtue, and thank the hand of God consistently for helping us find our own personal mission in this life.

“I recommend this lecture to everyone, especially youth.”

–Jacqueline Smith

…moved me to tears of gratitude; I am now more excited and renewed in my efforts…

“Thank you Oliver for clarifying the full meaning of ‘provident.’ It has been a word that I love and use regularly. ‘The Four Lost American Ideals’ has moving me to tears of gratitude for the sacrifices of the founders.

“I also found a strength in my own talents and interests as a ‘plain, ordinary person.’ I am now more excited and renewed in my efforts to become my mission and want all eight of my children to listen to ‘The Four Lost American Ideals.'”

-Kristine Farley

As usual, DeMille has made me think deeper about a subject I thought I had a grasp on…

“As usual, DeMille has made me think deeper about a subject I thought I had a grasp on, and has given me a leaping off point for my own research. My husband and I have stumbled across several of these ideals independent of each other with no apparent connection. It was nice to have them so concisely put into a congruous train of thought.”

-Jenn Young

Our daughter shares it with her guy friends as a sort of litmus test…

“We love this audio and think it is a must-hear. We like listening to it in the car. Our daughter shares it with her guy friends as a sort of litmus test. It provides much to think about and talk about.”

-Vivian Milius

…being patriotic took on a new meaning

“After hearing this presentation, being patriotic took on new meaning. It truly spoke to my core. I share it with everyone. If you are feeling powerless or confused about what can be done to help things go right in these times of struggle, listen and commit to be American!”

-Natalie Larsen

My feelings of self-sufficiency and independence have literally been awakened…

“This lecture was such a learning experience for me. My own feelings of self-sufficiency and independence have literally been awakened through ideas I had never thought of before in exactly this way. Thanks for the great history lesson.”

-Jill Cohen

…this talk will inspire you to look into your own soul

“The virtues of the great people of this talk will inspire you to look into your own soul and ask the questions that only you have the answers to.”

-Jason Abbott