Is Raising Backyard Chickens Actually Worth It? The Real Costs, Common Mistakes, and What Nobody Tells You

Dreaming of gathering fresh eggs from your own backyard? 🥚 In this beginner-friendly episode of Chickens & Farming Made Easy, we dive into the trending question for 2025: Are backyard chickens really worth it for beginners? With more than 11 million U.S. households raising chickens and millions of chicks sold each year, backyard chicken keeping is one of the fastest-growing homesteading movements. But before you run to Tractor Supply or order a coop online, let’s break down the real costs, the simplest coop setups for beginners, and the most common mistakes new chicken keepers make. You’ll learn: ✔️ How much it really costs to raise chickens in 2025 (feed, coops, and hidden expenses) ✔️ Which beginner-friendly coop options work best for small backyards vs. rural setups ✔️ The top mistakes first-time chicken owners make — and how to avoid them ✔️ Why predator-proofing, zoning laws, and starting small matter more than you think ✔️ A faith-based perspective on “counting the cost” before starting your first flock Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom looking to provide healthier food, a suburban family curious about sustainable living, or a beginner homesteader ready to step into God’s calling for your household, this episode will give you clarity and confidence to start strong. I built a working homestead from scratch that now pays for itself. I started with a backyard flock and a dream and grew it into a 20-acre operation with over 4,000 birds, multiple livestock, and self-serve farm stands running year-round. We even completely rebuilt in a YEAR after a flood cam and wiped out everything from our flocks to our gardens.  All while raising four kids, staying present in my marriage, and keeping my relationship with Jesus at the center of every single decision. I am Tori Gass, a Christian homestead coach. God did not call me to keep this to myself. He called me to bring you with me. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Like listening to a friend who is passionate about something and actually knows what she is talking about." — Apple Podcasts This is the show for Christian women who are done dreaming and ready to build a real, sustainable, God-centered homestead. Each week you will learn how to: 🐓 Raise your first flock confidently without wasting money on rookie mistakes 🌱 Plan and grow a productive homestead garden your family eats from all season long 🏡 Create simple repeatable systems so your homestead runs without running you into the ground ✝️ Build something that honors God, strengthens your marriage, and involves your whole family 💰 Turn your homestead into something that actually sustains itself financially ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "It feels like we were sitting down having a cup of coffee together. Breath of fresh air." — Apple Podcasts If you have been spinning your wheels, second-guessing every decision, or wondering why you cannot make progress no matter how much you research, you are in the right place. Over 10,000 families have already trusted me to help guide them on this journey. Ranked in the top 1% of podcasts globally and top 10 in over 20 countries so you know God has led you here for a purpose!  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "She weaves faith and encouragement while sharing practical tips. Real advice you can actually use." — Apple Podcasts You were called to this. Let's build it together.