Everyday Homesteading

Healthy soil doesn't happen by accident. It starts with protecting the living ecosystem beneath your feet.In this first teaching episode of my Soil Health series, I'm sharing why keeping your soil chemical-free is the foundation for everything else we'll cover. Whether you're growing vegetables, fruit trees, flowers, or pasture, the health of your soil determines the health of your plants.We'll look at how herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, and synthetic fertilizers affect the beneficial biology living in your soil and why quick fixes often create bigger problems over time. I'll also explain how healthy soil naturally becomes more resilient, helping your plants better withstand pests, disease, and drought.If you've ever struggled with weak plants, poor harvests, or garden problems that seem to come back year after year, this episode will help you understand why the solution starts below the surface.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why a chemical-free foundation is the first step to healthy soil• How common garden chemicals impact beneficial soil life• Why healthy soil is a living ecosystem, not just dirt• Simple steps you can take to begin restoring your soil naturallyThis is Part 1 of my Soil Health series, so if you're ready to grow healthier, more nutrient-dense food while working with nature instead of against it, you're in the right place.For the companion blog post, visit: https://homesteadingfamily.com/healthy-soil-starts-here/And if you missed the introduction to the series, you can catch that here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-improve-soil-quality/Thanks for listening to Everyday Homesteading. I'll see you in the next episode as we explore the next building block of healthy soil: minerals.Thanks to Homestead Kitchen magazine for sponsoring this podcast. Grab your copy of this monthly print magazine here and start enjoying homesteading knowledge, tips and recipes in the palm of your hands: https://homesteadingfamily.com/in-the-homestead-kitchen-ytTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:12 - Homestead Kitchen Magazine3:22 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Have you ever stopped to consider that caring for the land isn't just a homesteading skill, but part of our Christian calling?In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I'm joined by Brendan McClenahan from Plant With Purpose and the TEND Initiative to explore what the Bible says about stewardship, creation, and why growing food can deepen our faith.For many Christians, conversations about caring for the earth have become complicated. But long before environmental movements existed, God gave humanity the responsibility to cultivate and care for His creation. Together, Brendan and I discuss how homesteading, gardening, and working the land aren't separate from our faith. They're one of the ways we live it out.We also talk about why true self-sufficiency is a myth, how community has always been part of God's design, and practical ways churches and families can reconnect with creation through simple acts like gardening, composting, and supporting local farmers.If you've ever wondered how your faith and your homestead fit together, I think this conversation will encourage you.In this episode, you'll learn:✔ What the Bible says about stewarding God's creation✔ Why Christians shouldn't avoid conversations about creation care✔ How gardening and homesteading can strengthen your faith✔ Why self-sufficiency isn't God's design for His people✔ Practical ways to build community through caring for the landTime Stamps:0:00 – Introduction2:21 – Homestead Kitchen Magazine4:25 – Main TopicResources Mentioned:📖 Read the companion blog post: https://homesteadingfamily.com/biblical-stewardship-of-the-land/🌱 Learn more about the TEND Initiative: https://tendlife.org📰 Subscribe to Homestead Kitchen Magazine: https://homesteadingfamily.com/in-the-homestead-kitchen-ytIf this episode encouraged you, I'd love it if you'd subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with someone who has a heart for growing food, stewarding God's creation, and building a resilient home.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Have you ever finished a canning session only to discover one or more jars didn't seal? It happens to every home canner at some point, and even after more than 20 years of canning and preserving food for my family, I still have an occasional seal failure.In this video, I'm sharing the most common reasons canning jars don't seal, how to troubleshoot failed seals, and what you should do if you find an unsealed jar. We'll also cover simple habits that can help you prevent seal failures in future canning sessions so you can preserve your harvest with more confidence.In this video you'll learn:✔ The most common reasons canning jars don't seal✔ How to tell if a jar has sealed properly✔ How headspace, siphoning, and dirty rims affect your seal✔ Why overtightening bands can cause problems✔ What to do if a jar doesn't seal within 24 hours✔ When it's safe to refrigerate, freeze, or reprocess your food✔ Why I always remove screw bands before storing my jarsFor even more troubleshooting tips, read the companion blog post here:https://homesteadingfamily.com/why-didnt-my-canning-jars-seal/Time Stamps:0:00 – Introduction1:22 – American Blossom Linens3:39 – Why Canning Jars Don't SealThis episode is sponsored by American Blossom Linens. Josh and I love investing in quality products that are made to last, and American Blossom Linens fits that philosophy perfectly. Their sheets, towels, blankets, and pillows are all made in the USA from high-quality cotton and backed by a two-year return policy. Use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" to save 15% on your order here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linens/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Are you working yourself to exhaustion trying to preserve every possible food for your pantry? I used to think a successful pantry meant recreating the grocery store at home. But after more than 20 years of homesteading, I've learned that's one of the fastest ways to burn out.In this video, I'm sharing the mindset shift that completely changed the way I preserve food. Instead of asking, "What do I want to eat?" I started asking, "What preserves well?" That one simple change has saved me countless hours while helping me build a pantry that's practical, resilient, and full of nourishing food my family actually uses.In this episode, you'll learn:✔ Why treating your pantry like a grocery store leads to unnecessary work and burnout✔ The foods I make a priority to preserve every year✔ How root cellaring and fermentation can dramatically reduce your preserving workload✔ When it's actually smarter to buy food that's already preserved✔ How to build a seasonal pantry that saves time, money, and effort⏰ Time Stamps0:00 - Introduction1:24 - Azure Standard4:47 - Main Topic📚 Resources MentionedStop Treating Your Pantry Like a Grocery Store:https://homesteadingfamily.com/stop-treating-your-pantry-like-a-grocery-store/Food Preservation: A Year at a Glance:https://homesteadingfamily.com/food-preservation-a-year-at-a-glance/Root Cellaring for Beginners:https://homesteadingfamily.com/preservation-101-root-cellaring/Eating Seasonally on the Homestead:https://homesteadingfamily.com/meal-planning-on-the-homestead/This episode is sponsored by Azure Standard, one of Josh's and my favorite sources for bulk foods, pantry staples, organic produce, garden supplies, livestock feed, and hard-to-find homesteading essentials. We especially appreciate that they now offer home delivery in many areas, making it even easier to stock up on the quality products we rely on. If you're looking for a trusted source for homesteading supplies, be sure to check them out using the link below. And for first-time customers, you can use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15" for 15% off your FIRST order of $100 or more, shipped to a drop location: https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-b👇 I'd love to hear from you: What's one food you no longer preserve because you've realized it simply isn't worth the time? Or what's one thing you'll never stop preserving yourself? Share your answer in the comments!#FoodPreservation #Homesteading #PantryStorage #FoodStorage #Canning #SelfSufficiency~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

What does it really look like to manage a large homestead garden? In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I'm joined by my oldest daughter, Rachel, who has taken over management of our main crop garden this year. We sit down for a candid conversation about what's working, what we're learning, and a few garden bloopers that prove even experienced gardeners don't always get it right!Rachel shares what it means to be responsible for a garden without having to do all the labor herself, how we're involving younger children in the garden, and some of the systems we're putting in place to make gardening easier and more sustainable year after year.We also talk about sprinkler timers, compost surprises, cats in freshly planted beds, and Rachel's best advice for both new and experienced gardeners.In this episode, we cover:🌱 How our family manages the main crop garden together🌱 The difference between responsibility and doing all the work yourself🌱 Practical ways to involve children of all ages in the garden🌱 New watering systems we're testing this season🌱 Garden mistakes, lessons learned, and funny stories from this year🌱 Rachel's top tips for staying on top of your garden without feeling overwhelmedOne of my favorite takeaways from this conversation is Rachel's reminder that daily observation is one of the most valuable gardening habits you can develop. A few minutes walking through the garden each day can help you catch problems early, harvest crops at the right time, and enjoy the process a whole lot more.🛏️ American Blossom Linens - Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast. We love their products because they're designed to last for years and are backed by an impressive 2-year money-back guarantee. They're also made with a focus on reducing unnecessary chemicals and toxins in the products you use every day. Use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" for 15% off your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linensTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:13 - Chit Chat5:26 - Homestead Kitchen Magazine8:23 - Soil Health~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

What if the secret to healthier plants, bigger harvests, fewer pests, and less work in the garden isn't another fertilizer or amendment? What if it's your soil?In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we're kicking off a brand-new Soil School series by exploring the foundation of every productive garden: healthy soil. You'll learn why soil is much more than dirt, how a thriving soil ecosystem works, and the six key elements that create resilient, nutrient-dense gardens.Over the next several months, Josh will be diving deeper into each of these topics in a special Soil School series designed to help you build healthier soil and work smarter, not harder, in the garden.In this episode:🌱 Why healthy soil is the key to healthier plants🪱 The surprising amount of life living beneath your feet💧 How healthy soil improves water retention🐛 Why soil health can reduce pest and disease pressure🌿 The four levels of soil health🧑‍🌾 The six foundations of healthy soilWhether you're a beginner gardener or have been growing food for years, this series will help you understand how to build living soil that works for you.Check out the accompanying blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-improve-soil-quality/This episode is sponsored by Homestead Kitchen Magazine. If you're passionate about from-scratch cooking, preserving the harvest, and building a thriving homestead centered around the kitchen, you'll love Homestead Kitchen Magazine. Filled with practical recipes, traditional skills, seasonal inspiration, and beautiful ad-free content, it's designed to help you build confidence in the kitchen and strengthen the connection between your garden, pantry, and table. https://homesteadingfamily.com/in-the-homestead-kitchen-ytTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:13 - Chit Chat5:26 - Homestead Kitchen Magazine8:23 - Soil Health#Gardening #SoilHealth #OrganicGardening~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Have you ever tried to identify a plant, opened a field guide, and immediately felt overwhelmed? You're not alone.In this episode, I'm joined by Rachel Parks of Botany in an Hour to talk about a simple approach to botany that can completely change the way you look at plants. Instead of trying to memorize thousands of individual species, Rachel explains how learning a handful of plant families can help you become a better gardener, herbalist, forager, and homesteader.We discuss why understanding plant families is often the missing link that makes plant identification easier, how this knowledge can improve your gardening decisions, and why even young children can quickly learn to recognize common plant groups once they know what clues to look for.Whether you're interested in medicinal herbs, foraging wild plants, improving your garden, or simply understanding the plants growing around you, this conversation will give you a practical framework for learning botany without feeling overwhelmed.In This Episode We Cover:• Why plant families are easier to learn than individual species• How botany can improve your gardening and companion planting• The connection between plant families and herbal medicine• Simple clues for identifying plants in the mint family• Why plant family knowledge can make foraging easier• How understanding plant relationships can help you learn faster• Using botanical knowledge to recognize patterns in food sensitivities• Why plant diversity matters in the gardenResources Mentioned:🌿 Save 20% on any Botany in an Hour course with coupon code: HFPODCAST20https://botanyinanhour.com/🌿 10 Questions You Need to Ask to Identify Any Flowering Planthttps://botanyinanhour.com/2025/05/07/10questionstoask/🌿 Best Botany Resources for Kidshttps://botanyinanhour.com/find-the-best-botany-resources-for-kids/🌿 Read the accompanying blog post: https://homesteadingfamily.com/learn-botany-for-beginners/Thanks to Farmhouse Teas for sponsoring this podcast. Be sure to check out their herbal tea selection for delicious iced tea for summer! Use coupon code "HSPodcast" for 10% off your purchase (one use per customer): https://homesteadingfamily.com/HFteas-favorites Time Stamps0:00 - Introduction3:19 - Farmhouse Teas5:36 - Main Topic#Botany #PlantIdentification #Herbalism ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

If you’ve ever struggled with pests in the garden, this episode will completely change how you think about natural pest control.Instead of reaching for sprays first, we’re talking about a layered, holistic approach to growing healthier plants that naturally resist pests better. From building living soil to attracting beneficial insects and knowing when organic interventions are actually appropriate, this conversation is all about working with nature instead of fighting against it.In this episode, we cover:• Why healthy soil is the foundation of pest resistance• The connection between soil biology and plant health• How daily observation can stop infestations early• Physical and mechanical pest control methods that actually work• Companion planting and attracting beneficial insects• When organic sprays can help and when they can do harm• Why adjusting expectations may be one of the most important parts of organic gardeningWhether you’re a brand new gardener or have been growing food for years, this framework can help you create a healthier, more resilient garden ecosystem.For more information, check out the accompanying blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/garden-pest-control/LINKS MENTIONED- Traditional Cooking Class - Check out Carolyn's new class over at the School of Traditional Skills here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/STS_Member_n- Modern Homesteading Conference - Join us in Idaho this June 2026 and come say hi! Grab your tickets here: https://modern-homesteading.myshopify.com/HF10- Thanks to Azure Standard for sponsoring this podcast. Grab your canning supplies and be ready for preservation season. For first-time customers, get 15% off your order of $100 or more with coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15": https://homesteadingfamily.com/AzureStandard Time Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:28 - Chit Chat9:18 - Azure Standard11:00 - Natural Pest Control~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

In this podcast, I’m diving into three canning concepts that confuse even experienced home canners. These are the kinds of things that can leave you second-guessing whether your jars are actually safe on the pantry shelf.In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I’m breaking down:- Why I never store jars with the rings tightened on- What changing liquid levels in your jars actually mean- Why proper headspace matters so much- What causes siphoning and how to prevent it- How false seals happen and what to watch forI know canning can feel overwhelming at times, especially when your jars don’t look “perfect,” but I want you to understand what actually matters for safety so you can preserve food confidently.For even more safety tips and common canning questions answered, visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/canning-mistakes-to-avoid/🎉 FREE LIVE CANNING TRAINING: This month I’m hosting a free live canning training where I’ll walk you through the canning process step-by-step and answer your questions live during the Q&A. Sign up here 👉 https://homesteadingfamily.com/freecanningtrainingA huge thank you to today’s sponsor, Grand Tetons Ancient Grains! They offer incredible traditional organic grains like einkorn, spelt, emmer, and rye straight from their regenerative family farm and mill. Use coupon code HOMESTEADINGFAMILY for 10% off through the end of June 2026. 👉 https://www.ancientgrains.com/?a_aid=HF&a_bid=7ebf0172 Time Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:15 - Free Canning Training3:07 - Grand Teton Ancient Grains6:21 - Canning Rules~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Should you water your garden every day? The short answer is probably not. In this episode, we’re breaking down one of the most common gardening questions and helping you understand how to water your garden for healthier plants, deeper roots, and better harvests.You’ll learn:• How often most gardens actually need water• Why daily watering can weaken plants• The difference between deep watering and shallow watering• The best time of day to water• How soil type changes your watering schedule• Signs you may be overwatering or underwatering• How mulch and healthy soil reduce watering needs naturallyWhether you garden in raised beds, containers, or a large in-ground garden, these simple principles will help you stop guessing and start watering with confidence.Read the full article here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/best-time-to-water-garden/Thanks to Farmhouse Teas for sponsoring this podcast! Be sure to check out all our Homesteading Family favorites, including the Persnickety Peach Chai for your summer iced tea!  If you want to give it a try, Farmhouse Teas is offering 10% off your order with the code HSPODCAST. It’s a one-time use discount and good for one per customer, so be sure to use it wisely: https://homesteadingfamily.com/FHTeas-FavoritesTime Stamps:0:00 - Intro1:27 - Chit Chat5:00 - Farmhouse Teas6:52 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

How do we preserve family, community, and truth in a culture that seems to be moving faster and faster away from them?In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I sat down with my friend Rory Groves for a thoughtful conversation about modern culture, technology, family economy, and what many families are sensing right now: that something important has been lost.Using the republished book Henry and the Great Society as a starting point, we talked about how modernization changed family life, community, work, and even the way we think about self-sufficiency. We also discussed why history matters and how looking backward can help us move forward with more intentionality.This conversation touches on: Family economy and durable living  The tension between independence and community  Why intentionality matters more than ever  Building culture for future generations  Encouragement for families trying to live differently in uncertain times I really appreciated Rory’s perspective and his heart for helping families think deeply about what it means to build a life that lasts.Links Mentioned:- Grab your copy of Henry and the Great Society here: https://homeward.press - Find Rory's book, Durable Trades here: https://www.thegrovestead.com/product/durable-trades/- Learn more about the Gather and Grow events here: https://gatherandgrow.us🌿 Today’s episode is sponsored by Homestead Kitchen Magazine: Homestead Kitchen Magazine is our ad-free monthly print magazine filled with trusted recipes, seasonal living inspiration, gardening, herbalism, preserving, and practical homestead skills from experienced teachers and contributors. Carolyn also shares a monthly faith-centered reflection from the heart of the homestead. Grab your subscription here: 👉 https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-magazine~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

After years of pushing hard on our homestead, we reached a point where we had to ask a tough question: Is everything we’re doing actually sustainable?Last year, we intentionally slowed down. Not completely, but enough to take a step back and evaluate what was working and what wasn’t.And what we learned changed how we’re approaching this year in a big way.In this episode, we’re sharing the real-life changes we’re making on our homestead. The projects we’re moving forward with, the systems we’re simplifying, and a few things we’re choosing to let go of entirely.Because here’s the truth most people don’t talk about... You don’t have to do everything to build a successful homestead.🌱 In This Episode Why we took a slower year and what it revealed  The homestead projects we’re focusing on in 2026  What we’re scaling back and why it matters  How our homestead is shifting into a multi-generational model  The systems that were adding too much pressure  What we’re doing differently this time around 🧭 Topics We Cover Simplifying dairy production  Stepping away from pig breeding  Turning over the main garden to the next generation  Expanding the beef program  Starting a family egg business  Rebuilding the house exterior  Resetting the orchard for long-term success 🧭 Mentioned in This Video- Learn how much to plant for a year’s worth of food: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-grow-a-years-worth-of-food/- Raising backyard chickens: https://homesteadingfamily.com/raising-backyard-egg-laying-chickens/- Stocking your pantry the right way: https://homesteadingfamily.com/prepping-your-pantry-for-winter/- Planting fruit trees: https://homesteadingfamily.com/growing-perennials-on-the-homestead/- Thanks to Azure Standard for sponsoring this podcast. For first-time customers, use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15" for 15% off your first order of $100 or more: https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-b⏱️ Timestamps0:00 - Introduction1:22 - Azure Standard5:29 - 2026 Projects~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

I’ll be honest… when I first heard about freeze dryers, I thought they were a gimmick.I didn’t want to spend money on an expensive appliance that would just sit there collecting dust.But after using one in my own kitchen, I can tell you this clearly… I was wrong.In this video, I’m sharing the 7 things I wish I knew before getting a freeze dryer. These are the lessons that would have saved me time, food, and a whole lot of frustration when I was first starting out.If you’re wondering whether a freeze dryer is worth it, or how to actually use one in real life, this will help you make a much more confident decision.I’ll walk you through:• Why I thought a freeze dryer would be a waste (and what changed)• The #1 factor that determines how your food turns out• Why you need a simple workflow, not just a machine• The packaging mistake that can ruin your food• Why freeze drying isn’t as complicated as it sounds• The best foods to start with (and what to avoid)• How a freeze dryer can pay for itself faster than you expectFreeze drying has helped me reduce food waste, simplify meal prep, and honestly… give me back weeks of my time every year. And that’s something I don’t take lightly.👉 Want help getting started without the trial and error?Join me for my FREE live freeze drying training where I walk you step-by-step through:• The 7 steps to freeze drying (so you get it right the first time)• How to afford a freeze dryer• Practical ways it saves money• How to actually make it work in your daily lifeYou can sign up here:https://homesteadingfamily.com/freeze-drying-trainingI’ll be there live teaching and answering your questions.If you’ve been thinking about freeze drying, this is one of those skills that can truly change how you preserve food and manage your time at home.For more information, check out the accompanying blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-before-getting-a-freeze-dryer/LINKS MENTIONED:- Freeze Drying FREE Webinar: https://homesteadingfamily.com/freeze-drying-training- Freeze Drying the Harvest book: https://homesteadingfamily.com/hl-freeze-drying-the-harvest- Freeze Drying Archives on our website: https://homesteadingfamily.com/category/preserve/freeze-drying/- How to Store Freeze Dried Food: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-store-freeze-dried-food/- Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this episode of Everyday Homesteading. If you want to replace your linens with cleaner, more sustainable options, use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" for 15% off your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linens/TIME STAMPS:0:00 - Introduction1:50 - American Blossom Linens4:35 - Main TopicBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

If you’ve ever felt like you need to learn everything before starting a garden, you’re not alone.In today’s episode, we’re simplifying the process and showing you how to start a garden without getting overwhelmed.Gardening is a journey. And the truth is, you don’t need perfect soil, perfect seeds, or perfect knowledge to begin. You just need a few key principles and a willingness to learn as you go.This episode is all about helping you take that first step with confidence.In this episode we cover: Why your first garden should be a practice garden The 5 essential elements for a successful garden  What beginners often overthink (and can safely ignore)  How to build confidence through small, simple steps Resources Mentioned Check Out the Traditional Skills Academy: https://traditionalskillsacademy.com Grab your Homestead Kitchen Magazine subscription here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-magazine To track the sun, use the SunSeeker app You don’t need to have it all figured out to start gardening. Just get something in the ground. Learn as you go. And remember… this is your practice garden. 🌱For more information and other helpful blog posts, check out the accompanying post to this podcast: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-start-a-garden/Time Stamps0:00 - Introduction 1:28 - Chit Chat 11:11 - Homestead Kitchen Magazine 13:58 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Are your chicken eggs coming into the house dirty, especially during mud season?In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, Carolyn is joined by Amy, cofounder of Good Egg, to talk about how to keep eggs clean starting in the coop—and how to properly handle fresh eggs once they’re in your kitchen.We’re covering everything from nesting box strategies to the right (and wrong) way to wash eggs, plus how storage methods affect shelf life. If you’ve ever wondered whether to wash your eggs, how long they last, or how to keep them cleaner in the first place, this episode will give you clear, practical answers.In this video, you’ll learn:- How to keep eggs clean in the coop (even during mud season)- The difference between clean, dirty, and washed eggs- What the egg bloom is and why it matters- How to wash eggs safely without pulling bacteria inside- The best ways to store fresh eggs for longer shelf life- Whether you’re new to backyard chickens or have been raising hens for years, these simple systems will help you bring cleaner eggs into your kitchen and use them more efficiently.- Read the full blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-keep-eggs-clean/- Learn more about Good Egg products and use coupon code "15OFFHSFAMILY" for 15% off your purchase: https://goodeggstuff.co/hsf - Grab my FREE guide for preserving eggs here: https://classes.homesteadingfamily.com/PreservingEggs- Thanks to Farmhouse Teas for sponsoring this episode. Click the link to check out all of Homesteading Family's favorites, and be sure to use coupon code "HSPODCAST" for 10% off your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/FHTeas-FavoritesTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction2:42 - Farmhouse Teas6:20 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

How do you get your kids excited about gardening, especially if you’re still learning yourself?In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I’m joined by Luke Hammond from Dirt Academy Kids to talk about why gardening is one of the most powerful tools we have for raising capable, grounded kids.We dive into: Why so many adults who garden today had childhood garden experiences  The real-life skills kids learn in the garden  How gardening helps improve kids’ health and their relationship with food  The challenge of teaching kids while you’re still learning  A simple, structured way to bring kids alongside you Luke also shares how Dirt Academy Kids is helping families bridge the gap with a hands-on gardening curriculum designed specifically for kids.If you’ve ever wondered how to bring your kids into the garden without frustration, this episode is for you.Watch or learn more with the accompanying blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-get-your-kids-excited-about-gardening/👉 Learn more about Dirt Academy Kids here: https://dirtacademykids.comThanks to our sponsor, Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15" for 15% off your first order of $100 or more: https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-b Time Stamps:0:00 - Introduction0:52 - Azure Standard2:14 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

What happens when your child grows up… and chooses to stay?In this episode of the Everyday Homesteading podcast, I’m joined by my oldest daughter, Rachel, as we share the story behind her and her husband’s decision to stay close to home and build a tiny house right here on our homestead.We’re talking about what it really looks like to build a life near family in today’s world—from navigating independence and boundaries to learning how to work together as separate households with a shared vision.Rachel also shares honestly about her experience growing up on a homestead, what made her want to stay, and what it’s been like adjusting to off-grid living (including the parts that aren’t so glamorous).If you’ve ever wondered what multi-generational homesteading could look like—or if it’s even possible—this conversation will give you a real, behind-the-scenes look.In this episode, we cover:Why Rachel and her husband chose to stay on the homesteadWhat it’s like building and living in a tiny home on family landThe reality of off-grid living (and the biggest adjustment!)How we’re creating independence while living close togetherA new take on the “family economy” and shared homesteading lifeWhy communication is the foundation of making this lifestyle work Read the full blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/why-our-daughter-chose-to-stay-close-to-home/Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast! If you'd like to give their products  a try, use the coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" for 15% off your entire order (one time use per customer), and know they have a two-year warranty on all their products!: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linensTIME STAMPS:0:00 - Introduction1:00 - Chit Chat4:29 - American Blossom Linens6:28 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Canning safety can feel overwhelming, especially when you hear all the warnings and conflicting advice out there. But what if it’s actually much simpler than you think?In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the three things you absolutely must get right for canning safety so you can preserve food with confidence and peace of mind.We’ll talk about:Why so many people feel afraid of canningThe truth about botulism and real riskHow pH determines whether you water bath or pressure canWhy processing time matters more than you thinkThe biggest mistakes to avoid (including unsafe methods still being taught today)How to confidently know your food is safe on the shelfIf you’ve ever wondered, “Am I doing this right?”—this episode will give you the clarity you need.👩‍🌾 Get the FREE Confident Canner Pack here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/confident-canner-podcastTo learn more, visit the accompanying blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/canning-mistakes-to-avoid/🌿 Thanks to Azure Standard for sponsoring today's podcast. If you're brand new to Azure, get 15% off your first order of $100 or more with code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15": https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-b~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

We spend a lot of time learning the hands-on skills of homesteading like baking, gardening, and preserving. But what if those aren’t the skills that actually make a home run well?In this episode, we’re talking about the quiet skills that don’t get much attention but make all the difference. Things like planning ahead, creating rhythms, finishing what you start, and learning how to say no.These are the habits that protect your peace, prevent burnout, and help you build a sustainable homesteading lifestyle for the long haul.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to do it all, this episode will help you step back, refocus, and create a home that feels both productive and peaceful. For more information, check out the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/the-quiet-skills-that-make-a-home-run-well/Links Mentioned:- Eat Pluck - If you want to get more organ meats into your diet, Pluck is the best place to start! Use coupon code "EATHEALTHY15" for 15% off your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/eat-pluck Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast. If you would like to give them a try, they have a two-year warranty! Plus, grab 15% off your first order with coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026": https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linensTime Stamps0:00 - Introduction1:35 - Chit Chat10:29 - American Blossom Linens12:27 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Cultured dairy sounds intimidating, but it's actually one of the easiest traditional kitchen skills you can learn.In this video, I explain how cultured dairy works, why it’s so beneficial for digestion and gut health, and how you can start making your own yogurt right at home.Once you understand the basics, you’ll realize that cultured dairy is far simpler than most people think. The bacteria do almost all the work. Your job is simply to create the right environment and give it time.In this episode, you'll learn:• What cultured dairy actually is• Why fermented dairy is easier to digest• The two types of dairy cultures (thermophilic and mesophilic)• How to make homemade yogurt step-by-step• Simple ways to keep yogurt warm while it cultures• How to keep your yogurt culture going batch after batchIf you've ever thought making yogurt or cultured dairy was complicated, this video will show you just how approachable it really is.Traditional kitchen skills like this can help you stretch your grocery budget, improve digestion, and bring healthier foods into your home.👉 Read the full blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/cultured-dairy-made-simple/👉 Join our FREE live dairy training here:https://homesteadingfamily.com/dairy-live-podcastThanks to Farmhouse Teas for sponsoring this podcast! Be sure to check out the Sneeze-Ali Tea here, along with our other favorites: https://homesteadingfamily.com/FHTeas-FavoritesTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:45 - Farmhouse Teas4:45 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Most people never fail at gardening. They quit before they begin.In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, Josh sits down with Luke from MIgardener to talk about why so many aspiring gardeners stay stuck in the dreaming and planning phase — and what it actually takes to start.You’ll learn:Why fear of failure quietly holds people backThe mindset shift that changes everythingThe importance of journaling and tracking your harvestHow to grow what your family actually eatsWhy building soil every year is non-negotiableIf you’ve been waiting for the perfect conditions, this episode is your reminder: imperfect action beats perfect planning every time.Watch the interview or read the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/stop-planning-and-start-gardening-even-if-its-imperfect/Be sure to find Luke at MIgardener on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or at https://migardener.com You can also email any of your gardening questions to [email protected] and be sure to check out his full line of seeds at https://migardener.com/seedsWe want to thank Grubbly Farms for sponsoring this episode. If you raise chickens, you know they’re not just livestock — they’re part of the daily rhythm of your homestead. That’s why we appreciate Grubbly’s focus on clean, thoughtfully sourced feed and treats made without fillers or unnecessary additives. If you’d like to try them, you can get 30% off your first order with the code HOMESTEADING30 and give your flock a boost the natural way: https://homesteadingfamily.com/grubbly-farms-fb TIME STAMPS:0:00 - Introduction1:15 - Grubbly Farms3:02 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

For many homesteaders, the dream is complete self-sufficiency. Producing all your own food. Depending on no one. Living independently.But is that really possible? And more importantly, is it even the right goal?In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we’re sharing why complete self-sufficiency is actually a myth and what matters far more: building practical skills and strengthening community.We discuss how focusing on skills rather than trying to do everything yourself leads to more resilience, less overwhelm, and greater freedom in your homesteading journey.You’ll learn how to shift your mindset, avoid burnout, and build real, lasting resilience for your family.Read the full blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/self-sufficiency-is-a-myth/Thanks to Azure Standard for sponsoring this episode! Azure has been our trusted source for bulk foods and pantry staples for years. When we can’t grow or produce something ourselves, Azure Standard is often our first choice. Get 15% off your first order of $100 or more using coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15" at checkout: https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-bTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction - Azure Standard - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Even with healthy, well-selected animals, there comes a day when you have to call the vet.And when that moment comes, most of us aren’t nearly as prepared as we could be.In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and veterinarian, Dr. Patrick Jones of The Homegrown Herbalist, to talk through what every homesteader should know before picking up the phone.We discuss:The importance of signalment (age, breed, sex, pregnancy status)Why taking a temperature can immediately narrow down a diagnosisThe questions your vet is likely to askWhat details matter most in an emergencyHow good observation can improve care and reduce stressThis is one of those practical, real-life conversations that helps you feel equipped instead of overwhelmed.If you raise livestock or have animals on your homestead, this episode will give you simple, actionable steps to be ready when something goes wrong.For more information (or to watch my interview with Doc Jones), visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/things-to-know-before-calling-the-vet/For more from Dr. Jones, visit: https://homegrownherbalist.netThanks to the sponsor of this podcast, Farmhouse Teas! Check out the Plumb Tuckered Out tea (and all the rest of our favorites), and be sure to use the coupon code "HSPodcast" for 10% off your order (one time use per customer): https://homesteadingfamily.com/FHTeas-FavoritesTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction2:57 - Farmhouse Teas5:57 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Making bread isn’t about talent, and it’s not about finding the perfect recipe either.In this episode, I’m sharing why bread is one of the most foundational skills in the homesteading kitchen and how learning to read your dough instead of following formulas changes everything. From flour amounts to kneading to rise times, we’re breaking down the simple techniques that lead to consistent, reliable bread no matter where you live or what recipe you use.If you’ve ever felt frustrated, inconsistent, or convinced that bread “just isn’t your thing,” this episode will help you see bread making in a completely new way.👉 Read the accompanying blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/the-secret-to-reliable-bread/🎥 Free Bread Training If you want to see these techniques in action, I’m hosting a free bread training where I walk through each step on video and show you exactly what to look for. 👉 Sign up here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-bread🛏 Today’s Sponsor: American Blossom Linens Most sheets are made with toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, PFAS, and flame retardants. American Blossom Linens makes toxin-free sheets right here in the USA, and they’re built to last. Use code HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026 to get 15% off your order (one use per customer). They also offer a 2-year money-back guarantee, so you can try them risk-free: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linensTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction2:15 - American Blossom Linens5:53 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Thinking about keeping backyard egg-laying chickens, but not sure where to begin? In today’s episode, we walk through the essential checklist every new chicken keeper should know.We cover:• What to think about before bringing chickens home• Coop setup and space requirements• Feeding, water, and daily care routines• How to successfully raise chicks in their first few weeks• Biosecurity basics and avoiding common pitfalls• Planning for seasonal egg productionWhether this is your first flock or you’re brushing up on best practices, this episode gives you a clear, practical foundation so you can raise healthy, happy chickens.- Read more on the blog and get your free printable checklist:https://homesteadingfamily.com/raising-backyard-egg-laying-chickens/- Printable Quick-Start Chicken Keeping Checklist: https://classes.homesteadingfamily.com/pl/2148743214- Check out the monthly chicken articles inside the Homestead Kitchen Magazine: https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-hkm- Thanks to Grubbly Farms, the sponsor of this podcast episode. If you'd like to give Grubbly a try, use coupon code "HOMESTEADING30" for 30% off your order! https://homesteadingfamily.com/grubbly-farms-fbTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:38 - Chit Chat5:38 - Grubbly Farms7:18 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Feeling overwhelmed while trying to add homesteading skills to an already full life? You’re not alone. In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I’m continuing our conversation about going from overwhelmed to peaceful and sharing what I’ve learned about building a homestead life that’s sustainable for the long haul.This is Part 2 of our series on creating peaceful household rhythms instead of rigid schedules. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, I recommend starting there and then coming back to this episode so these ideas can really come together.👉 Listen to Part 1 and Part 2 here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/3-things-that-keep-our-homestead-running/In this episode, we talk about:Why you don’t have the same energy every day or every seasonHow rhythms work better than strict schedulesAssigning focus days to reduce overwhelmCreating household minimums that support your family instead of exhausting youLetting go of unrealistic expectations and finding peace in everyday lifeIf this conversation resonates with you and you’d like help putting it into practice, you’re invited to join me inside the Find Your Peaceful Homestead Rhythm Challenge, where I walk you through creating a custom system for your own home.👉 Join the challenge here: https://classes.homesteadingfamily.com/homestead-kitchen-membership-evergreenYou can also find ongoing encouragement, seasonal inspiration, and practical homesteading skills inside the Homestead Kitchen Magazine.👉 Subscribe here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-magazineLinks Mentioned:👉Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe: https://homesteadingfamily.com/basic-homemade-sandwich-bread-recipe/👉Homemade Make-Ahead Breakfast Casseroles: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MABC_YTThanks for spending this time with me. My hope is that this episode helps you release some pressure, find more peace in your day, and move toward a rhythm that truly works for your home.Time Stamps:0:00 - Introduction3:45 - Homestead Living Magazine6:00 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

If you love the idea of homesteading but constantly feel behind, overwhelmed, or emotionally exhausted, I recorded this episode for you.In Part 1 of this new series, I’m sharing the household system that helped me move from constant pressure and burnout to a calmer, more sustainable rhythm of life. I talk about why overwhelm usually isn’t a discipline problem and why trying to “work harder” often makes things worse, especially for busy moms caring for families while adding homesteading skills.I share why stacking homesteading on top of an already full life doesn’t bring peace, how historical households managed full workloads without living by the clock, and the simple mindset shift that helped me stop feeling like I was always behind.This episode lays the foundation for creating a homestead life that fits real seasons, real energy levels, and real families, without guilt or burnout.Learn more about the Homestead Kitchen Membership and the Peaceful Homestead Rhythm Challenge here: homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-hkmThanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast. Use code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" for 15% off your next order. Only ONE use per customer. Enjoy! https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linens~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Homesteading is about so much more than chores, food, and checklists. In this episode, I’m joined by RuthAnn Zimmerman from Homesteading With the Zimmermans for a conversation that goes straight to the heart of what this lifestyle is really about: people.We talk about balancing hospitality with busy homestead life, raising children with a strong work ethic and character, and learning to trust God’s economy when it comes to time, energy, and priorities. RuthAnn shares how she keeps emotional needs first in her family and why that simple shift brings so much peace to the home.If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed by the busyness, or wondering how to keep relationships from getting lost in the work, this episode is for you.📚 RuthAnn's book, The Heart of the Homestead, here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/heart-of-the-homestead-book🎥 Find her on YouTube: @Ruthannzimm Thanks for being here and for walking this journey of everyday homesteading with us.Thanks to Azure Standard for sponsoring this episode of Everyday Homesteading. For first-time customers, use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15" at checkout for 15% off your order of $100 or more: https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-bTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction2:59 - Azure Standard5:10 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

A lot of people talk about going off-grid. But what if off-grid living isn’t just about power and water, but about freedom from systems that quietly run your life?In this episode, I sit down with Jeff Burkinshaw from the Gridlessness YouTube channel to talk about what gridlessness really means. Jeff shares how his family moved from suburban life to a remote homestead in the Canadian wilderness, not out of fear, but out of a deep desire to live with intention.We talk about• redefining what it means to be “off-grid”• breaking free from debt and financial pressure• raising kids with responsibility, resilience, and confidence• the real challenges of independent living• and why freedom is worth the work it takes to build itIf you’ve ever felt the pull toward a simpler, more meaningful way of living, this conversation will challenge and encourage you.👉 Links mentioned in this episode• Jeff’s book: Gridlessness: Finding Freedom Off Grid: https://homesteadingfamily.com/gridlessness-book• Gridlessness YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Gridlessness • Everyday Homesteading podcast: https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcasts/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

After more than 20 years of homesteading, we are looking back and sharing what we wish we had known when we first started.In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we talk honestly about the mistakes we made, the pressure to do everything at once, and the lessons that helped us find a more peaceful, sustainable rhythm. From gardening and kitchen skills to land size, infrastructure, and people-first priorities, this conversation is full of perspective for anyone feeling overwhelmed on their homesteading journey.Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been at this for years, we hope this episode helps you slow down, focus on what matters most, and remember that homesteading is a lifelong journey, not a destination.🎓 Join the How to Homestead Anywhere Crash Course - Learn how to homestead wherever you live and build rhythms that actually work for your season of life. 👉 https://classes.homesteadingfamily.com/crash-course🍞 Grab my free bread workshop here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop🌿 Thank you to today’s sponsor, Farmhouse Teas - If you love a cozy, nourishing drink but want to skip the excess sugar, check out Farmhouse Teas’ Hushroom Cocoa Blend. It’s an adaptogenic mushroom cocoa that’s calming, customizable, and perfect for cold days. Use code "HSPODCAST" for 10% off.  👉 https://homesteadingfamily.com/hushroom-cocoa📌 In this episode, we discuss:• Why doing everything at once leads to burnout• The foundational skills we wish we had focused on first• Why bigger homesteads are not always better• Letting go of the idea that you ever “arrive” at homesteading• Keeping people at the center of homestead lifeThanks for spending time with us. We’re glad you’re here.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

What does a “Year of Rest” actually look like on a working homestead?In this episode, we’re reflecting on our decision to slow down over the past year, what changed, what stayed the same, and what surprised us along the way. We share how cutting big projects brought more margin into our days, why rest doesn’t mean the work disappears, and how an unplanned cabin build for the next generation fit into our bigger vision.This is an honest, end-of-year conversation about pace, sustainability, and having the courage to adjust before burnout forces it.If you’re feeling tired, scattered, or unsure how to move into the next season, we hope this episode encourages you to slow down and have an honest conversation about what really matters.Thanks to Azure Standard for sponsoring this week's podcast. First-time customers can get 15% off their first order of $100 or more with the coupon code “HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15” at checkout: https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-bTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:19 - Chit Chat9:57 - Azure Standard11:34 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

If you have ever found yourself saying, “This winter, we’ll finally rest,” you are not alone. Josh and I have joked about it for years, imagining a slower season that somehow never quite arrives on its own.In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I’m sharing what I’ve been learning about real rest. Not just getting more sleep, but the kind of deep, soul-level rest that brings clarity, peace, and renewed purpose. The kind of rest that helps you remember your why.We talk about why rest never happens by accident, how much control we actually have over our overwhelm, and what intentional rest can look like in the middle of real homestead life. From simplifying digital noise to creating gentler rhythms at home, this is a conversation about choosing rest on purpose.If you’re heading into a new season feeling tired, stretched thin, or quietly longing for slower days, this episode is an invitation to pause, breathe, and make room for rest that truly restores.For more information, visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/finding-rest-in-the-quiet-times/Thanks to Laurel Mountain Soaps for sponsoring this podcast episode. Grab 15% off your first order when you use the coupon code "Homesteading15" at checkout: https://laurelmountainsoaps.com/collections/goat-milk-and-honey-soap~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Welcome back to Everyday Homesteading. Today I’m sitting down with two people I deeply respect and always enjoy talking with, Shawn and Beth Dougherty. If you have ever wondered whether a family milk cow actually fits into a busy modern homestead, or if you’ve been feeling that tug toward a simpler, more land-rooted way of feeding your family, this conversation is for you.Shawn and Beth have spent more than twenty-five years raising a large family, stewarding rough Appalachian ground, and building a thriving homestead centered around the grass-fed family cow. Their new book, One Cow Revolution, takes everything they’ve learned and puts it into a guide that feels like having a wise neighbor over the fence.We talk about why the dairy cow is still one of the most powerful tools for food independence, how managed grazing can rebuild soil and family culture, and why the cow is far less of a burden than most people fear. Whether you already have a cow, hope to bring one home someday, or think you never will, you’ll walk away from this episode with a whole new sense of what’s possible.Let’s dive in.- Grab a copy of One Cow Revolution here: https://a.co/d/gAx6o34- Check out the accompanying blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/can-anyone-keep-a-dairy-cow- Thanks to Lehman's for sponsoring today's podcast. Be sure to check out all Lehman's has to offer at https://lehmans.com Time Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:42 - Lehman's2:39 - Main Topic42:31 - One Cow Revolution (Book)~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Mistakes happen on every homestead, and today we are sharing some of our biggest ones from the past year so you can learn right alongside us. Whether it is garden chaos, livestock mishaps, or ignoring that little voice of intuition, these lessons are part of growing wiser and more resilient on the homestead.We are also chatting about winter prep, homeschool rhythms, fruit flies in the pantry, and a few behind–the–scenes stories from life here at Riverbend. Grab a warm drink and join us for some real talk about what went wrong and how we are moving forward.Time Stamps0:00 - Introduction1:20 - Chit Chat3:00 - Cabin Build (Card)10:41 - ForJars12:19 - Main TopicGrab Your Spot:Get registered for our free, live How to Homestead Anywhere crash course. This week-long training will help you build resilience and peaceful rhythms no matter where you live: Learn Seed Saving:Start saving your own garden seeds with this simple beginners guide:https://homesteadingfamily.com/seed-saving-for-beginners/Thank You to ForJars:We appreciate ForJars for sponsoring this episode. Check out their line of durable, homestead-friendly canning and preserving tools. Use coupon code HOMESTEADINGFAMILY10 to save 10 percent on your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/forjarsAs always, we love hearing from you. Share your biggest homesteading mistakes in the comments below so we can learn from each other.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are the Homesteading Family, where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4-video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4-video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Learn how to make cheese the traditional way using natural raw milk cultures like clabber, kefir, and backsplash whey. In this conversation with Robyn Jackson from Cheese From Scratch, we dig into how to create and maintain your own starter cultures, how to troubleshoot clabber that smells a little funky, and how to use these cultures to make everything from cream cheese to aged wheels.This episode covers:• What clabber is and why it was used for generations• How to build and maintain a healthy clabber culture• How kefir can work as a starter culture• When backsplash whey is useful and when it is not• How to know if your culture has gone bad• How to make a simple clabber cream cheese at home• Why natural cultures can make your cheeses taste better than commercial starters✅ If you want to learn how to work with raw milk in a way that is simple, safe, and incredibly rewarding, this episode will give you the confidence to begin. Learn more here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/natural-cheesemaking/✅ Grab a copy of Robyn's book, Cheese From Scratchhere: https://homesteadliving.com/product/cheese-from-scratch/✅ Check out my Practical Homemade Dairy Masterclass here: https://homesteadliving.com/product/cheese-from-scratch/Time Stamps:0:00 - Introduction2:54 - American Blossom Linens4:48 - Main Topic- Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring today's podcast. Be sure to grab yourself 20% off your purchase with coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY". Check out all their amazing products here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linens~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we open up about cultivating contentment in every season of our homestead life. It's easy to feel grateful when everything is going smoothly, but true contentment is often built in the hard moments. Today, we talk about choosing gratitude, navigating overwhelm, balancing the desire to grow with the ability to rest, and finding joy in whatever season you are in.✅ For more information, visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/cultivating-contentment-on-the-homestead/✅ Get all our favorite sausage recipes here: https://classes.homesteadingfamily.com/pl/2148622418✅ Learn how to render lard here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/rendering-lard-or-tallow/✅ Thank you to ForJars for sponsoring today's podcast. Check out their full line of tools at their website and use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY10" for ten percent off your purchase: https://homesteadingfamily.com/forjarsTIME STAMPS:0:00 - Introduction2:55 - Chit Chat11:11 - ForJars12:35 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are the Homesteading Family, where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4-video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4-video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

If you’ve ever wondered how to rehydrate dehydrated food so it actually tastes good, this episode is for you! Join me with guest Darcy Baldwin from The Purposeful Pantry as we share our best tips for dehydrating and rehydrating food for everyday use, not just for emergencies.You’ll learn:✅ How to rehydrate vegetables, fruits, and meats for soups, casseroles, and skillet meals✅ Why dehydrating is one of the easiest, most affordable long-term food storage methods✅ When to blanch vegetables before dehydrating✅ How to use green powders and veggie powders to boost everyday nutrition✅ Pantry organization systems that save you time and moneyWhether you’re building a working pantry, stocking up for winter, or learning how to use dehydrated food in real meals, this episode will show you how to make every jar on your shelf a tool for convenience and nourishment.✨ Learn more in the accompanying blog post: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-rehydrate-dehydrated-food/✨ Take Darcy’s full class inside the School of Traditional Skills: https://homesteadingfamily.com/STS_Member_n✨ Learn more from Darcy at The Purposeful Pantry: https://www.thepurposefulpantry.com/✨ Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast. Be sure to use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY" for 20% off your purchase here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linensTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction1:36 - American Blossom Linens3:32 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us! Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

We’re in that cozy shoulder season where the garden is winding down, the last jars are cooling on the counter, and the big question creeps in, did we do enough?In this episode, we're talking about how our family prioritizes filling the pantry without burning out. We cover the calm power of buying staples in bulk, simple preservation that fits your real life, and the secret weapon that gets us through winter even without a root cellar, think potatoes, squash, onions, apples, all stored smart. We also share the weekly rhythms that keep the pantry peaceful, like shopping your shelves first and tracking what your family actually eats.If you’ve ever felt pressure to “do it all,” this one will help you breathe, simplify, and still feel prepared.Read the full companion post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/building-up-your-long-term-food-storage-supply/And learn more about our Homestead Kitchen Membership here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-MEMBERSHIPThanks to Azure Standard for sponsoring this podcast. If you're a first-time Azure customer, be sure to use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15" at checkout to receive 15% off your first order of $100 or more: https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-b~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

What would it really take to feed your family if the grocery stores closed tomorrow? In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, Josh talks with survival expert and herbalist Sam Coffman, author of Survival Gardening: Grow Your Own Emergency Food Supply, about how to build a garden that truly sustains life.Learn how to choose calorie-dense crops, build living soil, and use every layer of your garden for maximum yield. Sam shares practical steps to start small (whether you’re growing in a backyard, raised bed, or apartment balcony) and explains why community resilience is just as important as self-sufficiency.This conversation is a call to preparedness, not panic. You’ll come away ready to grow smarter, store longer, and feed your family well in any season.Listen now and discover how to grow a survival garden that thrives when it matters most, or visit the blog post to watch this interview: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-grow-a-survival-garden/Thanks to Lehman's for sponsoring this podcast. Visit their store to check out all their great offerings at Lehmans.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us! Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

As the seasons change, our bodies need a little extra care to stay balanced and healthy. In this episode, I’m sharing how our family supports our immune systems with simple, time-tested rhythms instead of quick fixes. From bone broth and fermented foods to elderberry syrup and herbal teas, these are the habits that keep us thriving through fall and winter.You’ll learn how to build a natural wellness routine that fits into your daily life, not one that adds more overwhelm. I’ll also share my favorite seasonal herbs, tips for clean indoor air, and how emotional rest ties directly into physical health.For more information (and links), visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-boost-your-immune-system-naturally/👉 Download your Free Fall & Winter Wellness Checklist at https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-wellnesschecklistThanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast. Be sure to check them out and use code "homesteadingfamily". 🎧 Offer: 20% off your order for Homesteading Family listeners here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linens~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us! Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Five “weeds,” tons of medicine. In today’s Everyday Homesteading episode, Carolyn sits down with herbalist Dr. Patrick Jones to unpack practical, safe uses for five common wild herbs: mallow/marshmallow/hollyhock (roots), plantain (leaf), burdock (root), stinging nettle (leaf/seed/root), and mullein (leaf/flower/root).What you’ll learn:Mallow family roots for soothing mucous membranes and calming “die lines” in stubborn woundsPlantain for punctures, drawing out toxins, and gentle gut supportBurdock root for liver, skin, and daily prebiotic benefitsStinging nettle leaf for allergies, seed for kidneys, root for male urinary supportMullein to quiet dry coughs, make simple ear oil, and support back/bladder with the rootBest times to harvest roots of biennials, how to slice before drying, and what to stock in a starter herbal kitResources:- For more information, visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/healing-herbs-and-plants/- Check out Doc Jones' book here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-docjonesweeds- Thanks to Lehman's for sponsoring this podcast. Be sure to check them out, and don't forget to request a FREE catalog at https://lehmans.com- Check out Dr. Patrick Jones and everything he has to offer over at https://homegrownherbalist.netTime Stamps:- 0:00 - Introduction- 2:29 - Lehmans- 4:04 - How You Can Help!- 5:14 - Main TopicIf you enjoy the show, please rate, review, and follow. Then, download the first five episodes of season 6 to help more homesteaders find us.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!  Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!! Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Let’s talk about starting homesteading when money is tight and time is even tighter. In this Everyday Homesteading episode, we show you how to begin right where you are, in the kitchen, and build skills that naturally grow into gardens, livestock, and a well-stocked pantry. No acreage required, no 40 extra hours a week, no influencer-level gear.In this episode: • Why every homestead should start in the kitchen • Budget homesteading 101, price-per-unit, and ingredient-based shopping • Farmers markets, seconds boxes, and CSAs for nutrient-dense food on the cheap • Preservation you can begin this week, from freezing and dehydrating to simple water bath canning and fermentation • Seasonal rhythms on our North Idaho homestead, including winter squash, deep bedding, seed saving, and salt-curing porkSponsor:Azure Standard is our go-to for healthy ingredients and bulk buys. Get 15% off your first order over $100 with code homesteadingfamily15 at https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-bLinks: • Homestead Kitchen Magazine, delivered right to your door (U.S. only): https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-magazine⦁ For more information, visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/homesteading-skills-to-learn-now/If you enjoyed this conversation, would you take a minute to rate and review the show? Then, download a few episodes so more families can discover Everyday Homesteading. Thank you for helping spread real, doable homestead skills. Because you CAN do this.TIME STAMPS:0:00 - Introduction2:46 - Chit Chat8:03 - We Need YOUR Help!9:35 - Azure Standard10:54 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we're taking the fear out of canning and putting confidence back in your kitchen. If you’ve ever thought, “I’ve tried so many tutorials and still don’t feel like I actually know what I’m doing,” or “I’m terrified I’ll waste good food or make my family sick,” this one is for you. I'm breaking canning safety down into simple, step-by-step principles so you can stock your shelves with jars you trust.What we coverWhy a sealed lid alone does not equal safe food, and what actually makes a jar shelf-stable.The pH "line in the sand" at 4.6, why it matters, and how it guides every canning decision.Exactly when boiling water bath canning is safe, and when you must pressure can.How heat, thickness, and circulation inside the jar impact safety.Common myths that lead to botulism risk, and the simple habits that keep you safe.Using approved recipes, what “acidifying” means for tomatoes and borderline foods.Reliable sources for tested recipes, so you’re not stuck in conflicting advice.Key takeawaysHigh-acid foods can be safely water bath canned because molds and yeast are easy to kill at boiling temperatures.Low-acid foods like meats, vegetables, and most full-meal recipes require pressure canning to reliably reach about 250°F.Approved recipes exist to control pH, density, and processing time so you can stop guessing and start knowing.If you can follow a cake recipe, you will be able to can safely at home.Resources mentionedCheck out all our canning resources, and to watch this podcast episode, on the website here: Free Canning Safety Training for visual learners: https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-canningTrusted recipe sources: Ball Blue Book, the National Center for Home Food Preservation, and Homestead Kitchen Magazine’s master-preserver approved recipesSponsor A big thank you to Azure Standard for making bulk, vetted pantry staples affordable. New customers get 15% off a first order of 100 dollars or more with code HomesteadingFamily15.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Why do so many homesteaders quit before they ever see their gardens thrive or their shelves fill with home-canned food? In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I sit down with my friend Melissa K. Norris to talk honestly about burnout, expectations that don’t match real life, and the simple habits that make homesteading sustainable. We share personal stories, the mistakes we made, and the practical rhythms that helped us keep going. If you’ve felt overwhelmed, I want this conversation to remind you that homesteading is not about perfection. It is about purpose, persistence, and the joy that comes from doing the work with your own two hands. Check out the Homestead Kitchen Membership here: https://homesteadingfamily,com/podcast-homesteadkitchenmembership💚 Thanks to ForJars for sponsoring this episode. Check out some of my favorite kitchen tools I use in my own kitchen and use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY10" for 10% off your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/forjars 👉 For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, check out the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/why-homesteaders-quit/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

If your garden struggled this year — plants wilting, pests taking over, and harvests falling short — don’t lose heart. The problem isn’t your green thumb… it’s your soil. 🌱In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we are going back to the basics and talking about the foundation of every healthy, productive garden: living soil.We’ll walk you through the six essential elements your soil needs to thrive, from minerals and organic matter to moisture, oxygen, and microbial life, and share practical steps you can take to build healthy, vibrant soil right where you are. You’ll also learn how to avoid the common “quick fixes” that can actually make your garden problems worse over time.Whether you’re growing your very first garden or trying to bring tired soil back to life, this episode will help you create the kind of rich, fertile foundation that makes everything in your garden flourish.💚 FREE RESOURCE: Grab our Healthy Garden Soil Action Plan at https://homesteadingfamily.com/podcast-healthygardensteps🎯 Mentioned in This Episode:• 4Jars Canning Supplies — Use code HOMESTEADINGFAMILY10 for 10% off your order!: https://homesteadingfamily.com/canning-jars-8oz-fb• RX Soil Testing – a great way to check your organic matter levels: https://homesteadingfamily.com/rx-soil• Learn more about improving soil quality → https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-improve-soil-quality/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

We’ve got some BIG news to share with you! 🎉 After nearly seven years and more than 250 episodes, we’re wrapping up The Pantry Chat Podcast… but don’t worry, this isn’t the end. It’s the beginning of something new!👉 Welcome to the Everyday Homesteading Podcast.In this episode, we reflect on the heart behind the Pantry Chat, share what’s happening on the homestead right now, and reveal why we’re relaunching under a new name. The mission hasn’t changed; we’re still here to encourage you, equip you with practical skills, and talk about the why behind the homesteading lifestyle. But with this new name, the podcast will be easier to find, more accessible, and even more helpful for those just starting their homestead journey.📅 Mark your calendars: On October 18, 2025, we’ll be back with five brand-new episodes to kick off Everyday Homesteading.💡 Here’s how you can help make this launch a success! Sign up to be part of our launch team and earn a chance to get some pretty great giveaways/prizes! 🎁 Join here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/podlaunchThank you for being part of Pantry Chat all these years. We are so grateful for this community, and we can’t wait to continue the journey with you in this new season. Whether you’re on 40 acres with livestock or growing herbs on a windowsill, you belong here.🔗 LINKS MENTIONED:- Sign up for the School of Traditional Skills 2025 Summit here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/STS_HF_n- Get my best tips on how to prepare for large preservation days on the homestead: https://homesteadingfamily.com/tips-for-a-busy-preservation-day/This podcast is sponsored by American Blossom Linens. Use code "HomesteadingFamily" for 20% off your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linensTime Stamps:0:00 - Introduction11:00 - American Blossom Linens13:55 - Prepping for Big Canning Days16:08 - Water Source for Chickens19:40 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!  Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!! Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

In this episode of the Pantry Chat, I sit down with my friend Rory Groves from  @thegrovestead to talk about his family’s journey from a tech career in the city to raising six kids on a homestead in Minnesota.Rory’s story will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt the tug to get out of the rat race and build something lasting with their family. What started with a single tomato plant on a city balcony turned into a thriving homestead of gardens, orchards, and livestock. But more than that, it turned into a way of life intentionally built around faith, family, and meaningful work.Rory is the author of Durable Trades and The Family Economy (links below), books that have encouraged thousands to think differently about how we live, work, and raise our children. In this conversation we dive into:- The slow, steady steps Rory and Becca took toward self-sufficiency- Why it’s vital to build rhythms of joy into the homestead for our kids- What “durable trades” really mean and why they matter today- Rory’s thoughts on AI, technology, and the need to preserve skills that last- Why homesteading isn’t about escaping the world, but preserving something worth passing onCheck out the blog post for links and more information here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/preserving-a-way-of-life-with-rory-groves/Durable Trades: https://homesteadingfamily.com/durable-tradesThe Family Economy: https://homesteadingfamily.com/the-family-economyThis is about more than food or farming—it’s about preserving culture, family, and faith for generations to come.Time Stamps:0:00 - Introduction0:49 - Lehman's1:50 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopFREE PDF DOWNLOADS:- Homesteading Family's Favorite Holiday Recipes - Grab all of our family’s favorite holiday recipes. https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-holiday-recipes- 5 Steps to a More Self-SufficientBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Do you ever wonder how to safely use herbal medicine at home? Whether it’s tinctures, teas, powders, or capsules, figuring out the right dose can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out. In this week’s Pantry Chat, I’m joined by Dr. Patrick Jones from HomegrownHerbalist.net to break it all down in a simple, practical way.We’re covering:🌿 The pros and cons of different herbal preparations (tinctures, teas, capsules, powders, and salves)🌿 How to safely dose herbs for adults, children, and even animals🌿 The three big safety checks every herbalist (and mom!) needs to know before giving herbs🌿 Which herbs are safe for daily, long-term use, and which ones should only be used short-term🌿 Real-life stories from both the clinic and the homestead on how herbs can make a big difference in emergencies and everyday healthHerbal medicine doesn’t have to feel intimidating. With a little know-how, you can confidently use herbs to support your family’s health, without second-guessing if you’re “doing it wrong.”📌 Resources & Links:- Elderberry Syrup Recipe: https://homesteadingfamily.com/homemade-elderberry-syrup-immune-boosting-recipe/- Learn more from Dr. Patrick Jones: HomegrownHerbalist.net- More herbal medicine tips from our homestead: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-use-herb-medicine-safely-at-home Time Stamps:0:00 Introduction2:48 - Lehmans4:13 - Main Topic22:03 - Dosing Herbal Remedies~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopFREE PDF DOWNLOADS:- Homesteading Family's Favorite Holiday Recipes - Grab all of our family’s favorite holiday recipes. https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-holiday-recipes- 5 Steps to a More Self-Sufficient Life - Simple steps anyone can take wherever they are to start a more self-sufficient lifestyle. https://homesteadingfamily.com/5StepsYTBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

Honey is so much more than a sweetener... It’s medicine. In this episode of the Pantry Chat, I sit down with beekeeper and herbalist Kaylee Richardson from The Honeystead to explore how combining bee products like honey, propolis, and beeswax with herbs can take your natural remedies to the next level.We’ll cover:🌿 Why bees are the “original herbalists”🍯 How honey makes herbal medicine more effective (and better tasting!)🛡️ Using propolis as a powerful antimicrobial for throat sprays and salves🧴 Beeswax’s role in healing salves and skin protection🥄 Simple herbal honey remedies you can make at home today👉 For more information and any links mentioned, visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/the-beekeepers-apothecary/📖 Learn more in Kaylee’s new book The Beekeeper’s Apothecary – pre-order for bonuses here: https://amzn.to/4mEnbht🛒 Shop quality honey, bulk herbs, and pantry staples at Azure Standard. New customers get 15% off orders of $100+ with code HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15 at https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-b Time Stamps:0:00 - Introduction3:04 - Azure Standard4:45 - Main Topic~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~MORE ABOUT US!WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideoGrow, Preserve & Thrive with us!Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.comFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamilyInstagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamilyRumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamilyA few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHytYour Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshopMeals on Your Shelf – Can along with me!  Learn to can and put jars of a delicious meal on your pantry shelf with this FREE video series: https://homesteadingfamily.com/MOYS-free-workshopFREE PDF DOWNLOADS:- Homesteading Family's Favorite Holiday Recipes - Grab all of our family’s favorite holiday recipes. https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-holiday-recipes- 5 Steps to a More Self-Sufficient Life - Simple steps anyone can take wherever they are to start a more self-sufficient lifestyle. https://homesteadingfamily.com/5StepsYT- Thrive Wellness Checklist - A simple guide for healthy living: https://homesteadingfamily.com/TWC_YT- Permaculture for Your Homestead- An introduction to permaculture with some strategies for applying it to one’s homestead and garden.https://homesteadingfamily.com/PFYH_YT- Carolyn’s CoBecome a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love. 

It’s midsummer here on the homestead, and that means the harvest is rolling in, the to-do list is growing, and the kitchen floor is… sticky.In this Pantry Chat, we're talking about:🌱 What to plant now for a winter harvest (and why August is the perfect time)🐛 How to deal with grasshopper invasions when you can’t keep chickens🥬 The easiest way to grow lettuce without spending forever washing it💛 Why gratitude changes everything when homestead life feels overwhelming🌳 Lessons from our fruit trees about control—and learning to let goWhether you’re in the thick of canning season or planning your fall garden, this chat will inspire you to tackle your homesteading season with fresh perspective and renewed joy.📌 Related links:- Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring today's podcast. Grab anything form their website and get 20% off with coupon code "HomesteadingFamily" at checkout: https://americanblossomlinens.com - How to Grow Cut-and-Come-Again Lettuce: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-grow-lettuce-the-easy-way/- How to Plant a Fall & Winter Garden: https://homesteadingfamily.com/20-vegetables-to-plant-in-late-summer/- Organic Garden Pest Control Without Chemicals: https://homesteadingfamily.com/garden-pest-control/- Our Favorite Garden Tools: https://homesteadingfamily.com/best-tools-for-the-garden/Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.