157. From Lost at 17 to EMT, Pilot, Firefighter, and Entrepreneur: Interview with Maxim Smith
Podcast: School to HomeschoolPublished On: Tue Jul 28 2026
Description: What happens when a teenager knows college is not the answer—but has no idea what comes next? I sit down with Maxim Smith, co-author of The Preparation, to hear how he went from hiding in his room and feeling completely lost at 17 to becoming an EMT, pilot, wildland firefighter, sailor, ranch hand, entrepreneur, and investor-in-training. We discuss homeschooling, apprenticeships, real-world education, rites of passage, confidence, and how parents can help floundering teens build a meaningful path beyond the traditional college track. Learn More about The Preparation Buy The Preparation on Amazon https://substack.com/@maximsmith SCHOOL TO HOMESCHOOL RESOURCES: Janae's Links for Vintage Books Sign Up for the School to Homeschool Newsletter School to Homeschool YouTube Channel CONNECT WITH US! Instagram Facebook janae@schooltohomeschool.com 🔔 Subscribe + Follow for more! If you're a faith-driven mom exploring homeschooling, unschooling, or personalized learning, this show is for you. Don't forget to follow, subscribe, and leave a review — it helps more families find freedom in education! *Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links.
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