Episode Description: Building a School Without Losing Our Family

Note: Andrew was recovering from a cold during this recording, so if his voice sounds a little rough, that's why!

Launching a school sounds exciting—and it is—but behind every big dream is a reality that is often far messier, more exhausting, and more demanding than most people realize.

In this episode, Andrew and Shannon pull back the curtain on what it has actually looked like to launch Acton Academy Victoria in British Columbia. From navigating regulations and facilities to hiring staff, meeting families, and building systems from the ground up, they share some of the challenges, surprises, and lessons they've encountered along the way.

But this conversation quickly becomes about something bigger than starting a school.

As the demands of launching a new venture have increased, so has the pressure on family life. Shannon shares some of the tensions she has felt during this season, and together they reflect on a question many parents face:

How do you continue investing in the things that matter most when life becomes increasingly busy?

Drawing on ideas explored throughout this season—including values, rhythms, intentionality, and community—they discuss what has helped anchor their family during a season that has often felt chaotic and overwhelming.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• What it actually takes to launch an independent school in British Columbia
• Some of the biggest surprises and challenges of building something from scratch
• The tensions of balancing work, vision, family, and margin
• How values help guide decisions when everything feels urgent
• Why rhythms become even more important during busy seasons
• What Andrew and Shannon are learning about maintaining intentionality when life doesn't slow down

Whether you're launching a business, leading a ministry, pursuing a dream, or simply trying to stay present with your family during a busy season, this conversation is an honest look at what it means to hold onto what matters most.

Because intentionality isn't tested when life is calm.

It's tested when life is full.

Reflection Question

What values or rhythms help keep your family grounded when life becomes busy, stressful, or uncertain?