

The Classical Academy Podcast
Trinity Classical Academy
Your friendly guide to the world of classical Christian education. Presented by Trinity Classical Academy.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 10, 2026 • 26min
The Four Gospels, with Andrew Richardson
What actually is a "gospel"? Why are there four gospels in the Bible, not just one? Why are Matthew, Mark, and Luke so similar, and John so different? Are the gospels really the true account of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ? And how do we teach them at a Classical Christian high school? Find out in this friendly guide to classical Christian education. The Classical Academy Podcast, presented by Trinity Classical Academy in Santa Clarita, CA. To learn more, visit https://www.trinityclassicalacademy.com .

Feb 10, 2026 • 21min
Pride & Prejudice, with Jandy Hardesty
In Pride & Prejudice, Jane Austen charmingly constructed the archetypal "enemies to lovers" plot. But is the love story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy mere romantic fantasy from a forgotten era? Or can it teach life-changing lessons and timeless truths for young men and women today? Find out in this friendly guide to classical Christian education. The Classical Academy Podcast, presented by Trinity Classical Academy in Santa Clarita, CA. To learn more, visit https://www.trinityclassicalacademy.com .

Jan 13, 2026 • 31min
Intelligent Design, with Dr. Mark Phillips
Christians believe the universe has a creator. But what does science show? It turns out that signs of an intelligent designer are everywhere—from within the tiniest cell to beyond the grandest galaxy. What does the theory of "intelligent design" mean for the science classroom? Find out how in this friendly guide to Classical Christian Education.

Dec 9, 2025 • 22min
The Life of St Francis, with Dr. Andrew Selby
Francis of Assisi: was he a mystic, a heretic, or the saintliest among saints? An animal-loving, poverty-embracing, creation-caretaker genius of the Christian walk... or was he bonkers? Some combo of all these, or just a simple, committed follower of Christ? Dr. Andrew Selby will help us find out in this friendly guide to Classical Christian Education.

Nov 11, 2025 • 19min
How To Tell a Story, with Alexandra Klein
Yarns, tall tales, mysteries, romances, thrillers, myths, fables—we all love a good story. Why? On a deep level, stories and narratives shape how we see truth and gain wisdom. When students get how narratives work, they can think clearly, speak eloquently, and love what is true and good. But can you teach narratives to grammar school students? Yes, with the Progymnasmata's Narrative stage! Find out how in this friendly guide to Classical Christian Education.

Oct 14, 2025 • 35min
The Canterbury Tales, with Zach Weichbrodt
Saucy stories, moralistic narratives, comic tales, cutting criticism, incisive insights, pilgrims pious and phony alike—just what was Geoffrey Chaucer up to in his provocative Canterbury Tales? Zach Weichbrodt, literature teacher extraordinaire, will help us find out in this friendly guide to Classical Christian Education.

Sep 11, 2025 • 33min
The Good Teacher, with Dr. Chris Perrin
Classical Christian schools have inspiring goals for their students and offer a stunning curriculum of Homer, Plato, Dante, Shakespeare, and many more great books. But our education won't work without good teachers. How do we spot a good teacher? How can teachers become better? And what can parents do to help? Dr. Chris Perrin, a leading figure in the Classical Christian education movement, joins the podcast to help us find out, in this friendly guide to Classical Christian Education. Click here to learn more about Dr. Perrin's new book, The Good Teacher: Ten Key Pedagogical Principles That Will Transform Your Teaching.

May 14, 2025 • 23min
The House System, with Kaeli Collver
High school students at Trinity love their House System. But new students and families may wonder what exactly are these "Houses"? Just some Christianized Hogwarts from Harry Potter? Or something deeper, richer, most powerful? Kaeli Collver, Trinity's Dean of the House System, will help us find out, in this friendly guide to Classical Christian Education.

Apr 16, 2025 • 40min
Milton's Paradise Lost, with Dr. Grant Horner
In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Grant Horner, a Professor of English specializing in Renaissance literature, unpacks John Milton's 'Paradise Lost.' They explore Milton's remarkable legacy as a blind author and his political activism, revealing how his experiences shaped his narrative. The conversation dives into the epic's complex portrayal of Satan and its philosophical themes, inviting listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys. Dr. Horner emphasizes the vital role of language and classical education, showcasing Milton's timeless influence on both literature and thought.

Mar 31, 2025 • 28min
Classical Education in America, with Zach Weichbrodt
In this engaging discussion, Zach Weichbrodt, Dean of Classical Learning at Trinity Classical Academy, dives into the deep roots of classical education in America. He illustrates how ancient Athens and Rome influenced the nation’s founding principles and culture. Zach shares the inspiring story of Phyllis Wheatley, a literary pioneer whose work challenged social norms. The conversation also highlights the significance of pursuing wisdom and character through classical education, urging listeners to appreciate its relevance in today's society.


