The Modern Homesteading Podcast

After a long winter break, we finally sat down again to record another episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast. It had been months since we last talked together, and as we caught up, it became clear that even though winter can feel slow, homesteading never really stops.Spring is creeping in. The snow is melting in some places, the mud is arriving in others, and everywhere homesteaders are beginning to prepare for the busiest time of the year.This episode turned into a simple homestead update — talking about maple syrup season, garden plans, animals, compost, and the everyday work that makes a homestead function.And honestly, that’s what homesteading really is.Not constant excitement, but the steady rhythm of seasonal work.

Winter is a season with its own kind of work.Find the full show notes at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/winter-homestead-reality-check-what-actually-gets-done/

In today’s episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, I'm diving into one of the most practical, delicious, and surprisingly simple ways to boost your year-round food production: Growing a Four-Season Salad Garden — even in cold climates.Find The Full Show Notes at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/growing-a-four-season-salad-garden-how-to-harvest-fresh-greens-all-year-long/

When you start the journey toward self-sufficiency, it often feels slow. You look at everything you still want to do — grow more food, raise more animals, build better systems — and it can seem like you’re barely making progress.But here’s the truth: You're Further Along Than You Think!Self-sufficiency doesn’t happen overnight. It grows one small habit at a time.And many homesteaders are far more self-sufficient than they give themselves credit for.If you’ve been wondering whether you’re “there yet,” this list will encourage you. Chances are, you’re already walking the path — and much further along than you realize.Let’s look at 21 signs you’re becoming truly self-sufficient.Find the full show notes at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/ways-to-know-youre-growing-in-self-sufficiency/

After a three-month pause, Harold and Rachel hop back on the mics to share an honest update on burnout, boundaries, and what’s been happening off-air. They talk about stepping away from the internet, re-centering on family, and rediscovering inspiration at a healthier pace. Rachel recaps: selling a house, expanding her orchard toward a food forest in stubborn drought, clearing and cover-cropping a half acre (winter peas + rye), stacking shiitake and lion’s mane mushroom logs, and prepping a site for a pole barn. She’s building a 10×10 “chicken mansion,” helping with poultry and small-stock butchering, and deciding which animals to bring on next. Harold shares his three months trucking for Tractor Supply—cooking real meals on the road with his wife—while his daughter tended the garden. The homestead “stress test” paid off: trees, berries, and perennials thrived on design, mulch, and zero watering, even in drought.They also get candid about creator fatigue in the homesteading space and why the podcast will return only when there’s real passion and value to share (no promises on a weekly cadence). Current projects include winter prep, heavy pruning, re-mulching guilds, and rebooting the greenhouse for cool-season greens and spring seeds. Looking ahead: Rachel plans chickens, rabbits, and ducks; Harold’s eyeing rabbits and quail again. They swap garden wins and flops (epic strawberries and figs; potatoes that surprised; not much canning this year), and a YouTube channel that’s been inspiring lately. Thanks for sticking with the show—whenever the next episode drops, the goal is the same as day one: practical encouragement to “grow where you’re planted.”

Join Rachel as she interviews Beth Declercq of The Declercq Homestead.  In today's podcast episode they talk about Beth and Tommy’s journey from city dwellers to rural living on a small farm.  Beth talks about raising milk cows, beef cows, homeschooling, large families all while running businesses from their farmstead. She gives wisdom and encouragement to all of us to slow down, be patient and give grace to yourself and your family. Find the full show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/large-family-small-acreage-farming-with-the-declercq-homestead/

On today’s podcast episode, Harold and Rachel dive into the world of outdoor kitchens—why they’re a game-changer for homesteaders and how to design one that fits your needs and budget. From saving energy and simplifying canning to creating community spaces and preparing for emergencies, we cover the benefits, layout ideas, tools, materials, and real-life tips. Whether you’re building from scratch or buying a kit, this is your guide to creating a practical and beautiful outdoor kitchen on the homestead.Find the full show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/outdoor-kitchens-for-the-homestead/

In this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel have a good old-fashioned homestead chat. They covered everything from sore backs to swales, compost piles to creating memories—things every homesteader can relate to.Find the full show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/chewing-the-fat-about-our-homesteads-a-season-of-change-and-growth/

In this podcast episode, we explore how garden paths can do so much more than provide a place to walk—they can support soil health, manage water, grow food, host wildlife, and even tell a story. Designed with permaculture in mind, paths become a powerful tool for creating a productive and regenerative garden. From living groundcovers and composting mulch layers to contour-based water management and edible edges, you’ll learn how to make every step in your garden work for you and the ecosystem around you.Find the full show notes at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/garden-paths-from-a-permaculture-perspective/

On today's podcast episode, Rachel talks about something that can totally change your garden — growing vertically! Whether you have a tiny backyard, a small deck, or just a balcony, vertical gardening is a fun way to grow more food and flowers without needing tons of space.Find the full show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/how-to-garden-vertically/

In this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Rachel talks all about broth. From simple meat stock to rich bone broth and even vegetable-based options, she breaks down the different types, their benefits, how to make them, and why they’re a staple in so many homestead kitchens. Whether you're new to broth or looking to fine-tune your process, this episode is packed with practical tips and homesteader wisdom.Find the full show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/about-broth/

In this podcast episode, we explore a refreshing new take on permaculture through the lens of Mulberries in the Rain, a deeply personal and story-driven book by Ryan Blosser and Trevor Piersol. Unlike traditional how-to guides, this book weaves together memories, relationships, and life lessons with plants—making permaculture feel alive, heartfelt, and accessible. Through authentic storytelling, Ryan shares how plants became part of his family history, how community shaped his journey, and why true resilience is rooted in connection, not just self-sufficiency.Whether you're new to homesteading or have been growing your own food for years, this conversation will inspire you to look at your land—and your life—in a new way. Discover the power of story in shaping your garden, your relationships, and your sense of purpose. It’s a beautiful reminder that growing food isn’t just practical—it’s deeply personal.Find the full show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/finding-deeper-purpose-in-what-you-grow/

In this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, we’re joined by the amazing Melissa K. Norris—homesteader, author, and founder of the Pioneering Today Podcast! Melissa shares practical, real-life tips for cooking from scratch, even during the busiest seasons on the homestead.From batch cooking to freezer-friendly favorites and mastering one dough recipe for everything from rolls to pizza—this conversation is packed with helpful advice to make homemade meals doable and delicious. Whether you’re new to homesteading or just looking for ways to make real food fit into real life, you’ll love this episode!Find the show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/cooking-from-scratch/

Fences serve many roles on a homestead—keeping livestock in, keeping predators out, marking property boundaries, and providing privacy. However, in permaculture, we strive to make everything serve multiple functions. Well-designed permaculture fences can do much more than just create a barrier; it can become an integral part of the ecosystem, enhancing biodiversity, microclimates, and soil health.In this podcast episode, we’ll explore both traditional and alternative fencing methods through the lens of permaculture. We'll examine their ability to create edge, support wildlife, conserve resources, and integrate with natural systems.Find the full show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/permaculture-fences/Join the Modern Homesteading Membership and listen AD-FREE! Learn more at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

Embarking on the journey of starting a homestead from scratch can feel overwhelming, especially when considering the possible costs involved. However, it’s possible to live the homesteading lifestyle with a small budget.These tips will guide you through the top lessons I've learned from starting and operating a homestead on a small budget and helped me make decisions that have paid off in the long run.Find the full show notes and links mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/starting-a-homestead-on-a-small-budget/Join The Modern Homesteading Membership and Listen Ad-Free! Learn More at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

Everyone dreams of a thriving homestead—a place where fresh food is just steps away and animals live in harmony with the land. Permaculture offers a way to design that dream and help it grow over time. In this podcast episode guest Takota Coen—who has spent years learning, experimenting, and helping others—gives us advice on things to consider to design and implement permaculture into your homestead.Find the show notes and links mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/designing-implementing-permaculture-regenerative-systems-with-takota-coen/Modern Homesteading Members Listen Ad-Free

The Modern Homesteading Podcast - Episode 275A well-planned garden can provide more than just food for people—it can support livestock, pollinators, and soil health all at once. A Four-Fold Holistic Food Garden integrates these elements, creating a balanced ecosystem that maximizes productivity and sustainability. By focusing on these four key areas, you can build a garden that works in harmony with nature while meeting multiple needs on your homestead.Find The Show Notes and Links Mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/planning-a-holistic-garden-a-sustainable-approach-to-feeding-people-livestock-pollinators-and-soil/⁠Modern Homesteading Members Listen Ad-Free

When we think of leaves, we often picture them as the green parts of plants that we compost or occasionally toss into the cooking pot. However, many leaves offer a wealth of unique benefits beyond simple culinary uses. They can help improve soil health, provide natural pest control, serve as crafting materials, and even support herbal remedies—all while promoting a more sustainable homestead.In this episode, we’ll explore leaves that can bring unexpected advantages to your homestead. From traditional garden herbs to trees and even lesser-known plants, you may discover a new favorite way to put greenery to work!Find The Show Notes and Links Mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/leaves-with-surprising-uses-besides-food-for-your-homestead/⁠Modern Homesteading Members Listen Ad-Free

Starting seeds indoors can be a rewarding step in gardening. It allows you to get a head start on the growing season, select the best plant varieties, and save money compared to buying seedlings. However, success depends on a few key factors, two of which are the right soil mix and the proper seed trays. In this episode, we’ll explore the best soil options for seed starting, the different types of seed trays, and practical tips to maximize germination and seedling health.Find the Show Notes and Links Mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/exploring-seed-starting-soil-and-tray-options/

Homesteaders are always looking for ways to extend the growing season, start seeds indoors, and even grow food year-round. Grow lights are a game-changer when it comes to providing the right light conditions for plants when natural sunlight isn’t sufficient. Whether you’re starting vegetable seedlings for your garden or cultivating herbs and leafy greens indoors, choosing and using the right grow lights can make all the difference.In this episode, we’ll cover everything you need to know about grow lights, including the different types, what to look for when purchasing them, and best practices for seed starting and full plant growth.Find the show notes and links mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/the-homesteaders-guide-to-grow-lights/

A well-organized workshop is the heart of any homestead. Whether you're fixing broken tools, building new projects, or maintaining equipment, a dedicated workspace makes all the difference. Having a homestead shop saves time, money, and frustration by keeping everything organized, and ready when you need it. In this podcast episode, we’ll cover why every homesteader should have a shop, where to set it up, and how to design and organize it efficiently. Whether you have a sprawling farm or a small backyard homestead, a functional workshop will improve your self-sufficiency and productivity. Find the complete show notes at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/the-homestead-workshop-why-you-need-one-and-how-to-set-it-up/

On this podcast episode, Harold and Rachel continue the series on getting back to basics with getting started with trees and bushes. They discuss the benefits, selection, planting, and care of trees and bushes. Modern Homesteading Podcast Episode 270 Find the shownotes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/back-to-basics-getting-started-with-trees-and-bushes/

On this podcast episode, Harold and Rachel continue the series on getting back to basics with getting started with small livestock. They discuss a variety of livestock like chickens, rabbits, quail, ducks, and more. Modern Homesteading Podcast Episode 269 Find the shownotes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/back-to-basics-getting-started-with-small-livestock/

On this podcast episode, Harold and Rachel begin a series on getting back to basics beginning with getting started gardening. They discuss everything you need to know to start growing your own homegrown vegetables. Modern Homesteading Podcast Episode 268 Find the show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/back-to-basics-getting-started-gardening/

On this podcast episode, Harold and Rachel are joined by Jonah Curtis to discuss processing and preparing wild game meat of all kinds. From field dressing to cooking and everything in between, Get hungry and maybe a little inspired to make wild game meat part of your homestead. Modern Homesteading Podcast Episode 267 Find the show notes at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/processing-and-preparing-wild-game-meat/

Looking for a Christmas gift for the homesteader in your life in these final days before the holiday that won’t break the bank? Here are a few things we think most homesteaders would love to have. The Modern Homesteading Podcast – Episode 266

Join Rachel as she chats about what she's baking, the history of some of the traditional foods, and of course what Laura Ingalls Wilder had to say about the holiday. Find The Show Notes and Links Mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/thanksgiving-live-with-rachel/

On This Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss Keeping The Garden Gowing By Growing Indoors. They Discuss Things To Consider For Indoor Gardening, The Different Methods, and The Best Garden Plants To Consider. The Modern Homesteading Podcast Episode 264 Find The Show Notes at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/garden-plants-you-can-bring-inside-and-grow-for-the-winter/

On This Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel discuss the news that Thomas Massie and Joel Salatin have potential roles in the USDA under the Trump administration as well as other appointments that could have an impact on homesteaders and farmers. The Modern Homesteading Podcast - Episode 263 Find the show notes and links mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/news-that-is-the-talk-of-the-town-in-homesteading-communities/

On this podcast episode, Harold and Rachel discuss how and when to add or sometimes remove something from your homestead. Making the right choices for your homestead and balancing wants, needs, and timing in the pursuit of your homesteading goals. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 262 – November 10, 2024 Find the show notes at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/how-and-when-to-decide-to-add-something-to-your-homestead/

On this podcast episode Harold Interviews Rachel about tapping trees and making syrup on a homestead scale. We dive into what trees to tap, the tree tapping process, and making the syrup. If you've ever wanted to get started making your own syrup, this episode has you covered. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 261 – October 28, 2024 Find the show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/tapping-trees-and-making-syrup/

In this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel discuss the many uses for chickens on the homestead through the permaculture concept of function stacking. Hint... They aren't just good for eggs and meat, chickens are the ultimate homestead helpers. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 260 – October 14, 2024 Find The Show Notes and Links Mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/function-stacking-with-chickens/ Check out the Modern Homesteading Membership to go AD-FREE, support the show, and get some other perks: ⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/⁠

On Today's Podcast Episode, Rachel dives into one of her favorite topics, FAT! She explains the different types of animal and plant based fats, their benefits, and how to use them in your kitchen and your homestead. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 259 – October 6, 2024 Get the Show Notes and the Links Mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/the-ultimate-in-kitchen-fat/ Check out the Modern Homesteading Membership to go AD-FREE, support the show, and get some other perks: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

In this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel discuss Root Propagation Through Layering. This time-tested practice is a dependable way to multiply your plants, saving you money and increasing your harvests. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 258 – September 29, 2024 Find the show notes and all the information mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/root-propagation-through-layering/ Get the podcast AD-FREE plus other benefits by joining the Modern Homesteading Membership - Learn More at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

In this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold has a chat with Jordy Buck, a seasoned homesteader who’s been on the show a couple of times before. Jordy shared invaluable insights into his homestead, offering insight on everything from scaling back operations to optimizing animal feed. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 257 – September 22, 2024 Get the shownotes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/catching-up-with-jordy-buck-insights-from-a-modern-homesteader/

In this podcast episode, Harold and Rachel share their insights on how to generate income from a small homestead. They explore 23 different strategies, offering a mix of tried-and-true methods alongside more creative and unconventional ideas. Whether you're already familiar with some of these concepts or looking for fresh inspiration, they provide practical tips and thoughtful discussions on how to make a small homestead financially sustainable. From traditional approaches to innovative solutions, they cover a wide range of possibilities for homesteaders at any stage. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 256 – September 15, 2024 Get the shownotes at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/23-ways-to-make-money-from-a-small-homestead/

On this podcast episode Rachel talks about some of the beneficial ways to use grains in the homestead kitchen, focusing on grinding. soaking, and sprouting of grains. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 255 – September 8, 2024 Find the shownotes and links mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/using-grains-in-your-homestead-kitchen-grinding-soaking-and-sprouting/

On this podcast episode for the first time ever I'm replying an older episode where I briefly tell my story of why I started homesteading and why you should consider homesteading right now, right where you are. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 254 – September 1, 2024

On This Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel have a discussion about the benefits of preserving a year's worth of SOMETHING from the homestead as opposed to trying to grow everything you need for the entire year. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 253 – August 25, 2024 Find the the shownotes and links mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/preserving-a-years-worth-of-something-from-the-homestead/ Support the podcast by joining The Modern Homesteading Membership. Learn More at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

On This Podcast Episode Join Rachel as she interviews Charles Mayfeild of Farrow Skincare about the health and wellness benefits of pastured fats. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 252 – August 18, 2024 Find the show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/health-and-wellness-benefits-of-pastured-fats/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast and get the perks of membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Rachel Talks About The Kitchen Power Tools She Has and Recommends. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 251 – August 11, 2024 Find the show notes and links mentioned at ⁠⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/the-homestead-kitchen-power-tools/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast and get the perks of membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss 21 Myths and Misconceptions About Homesteading. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 250 – August 4, 2024 Find the show notes and links mentioned at ⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/homesteading-myth-vs-reality/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast and get the perks of membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss All The Things To Consider When Choosing A Site To Build Your Homestead. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 249 – July 28, 2024 Find the show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/choosing-a-site-for-a-homestead/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast and get the perks of membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Talk About Building A Homestead Library. They Dive Into Why You Might Want One, How To Get Started and Build One, and Book Suggestions In Many Categories. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 248 – July 14, 2024 Find the show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/building-a-homestead-library/⁠⁠ ⁠ Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast and get the perks of membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss Nitrogen Fixing Plants. How Do They Work, What They Are, and How Best To Incorporate Them Into Your Homestead. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 247 – July 6, 2024 Find the show notes and links mentioned at ⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/nitrogen-fixing-plants-for-the-homestead/ Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast and get the perks of membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

On this podcast episode, Harold has a conversation with Mary Smith from Mary's Heirloom Seeds about Summer planting for a fall crop. They discuss how to determine when and what to plant and go over a few vegetable varieties to consider. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 246 – June 28, 2024 Find the show notes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/planting-for-fall-crops-with-guest-mary-smith Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast and get the perks of membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss Avoiding Burnout While Homesteading By Being Aware Of The Ebbs and Flows, Ups and Downs, Hectic Times and Peacefulness of Homesteading and Navigating That Journey With Balance. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 245 – June 23, 2024 Find The Show Notes and Links Mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/ebbs-and-flows-in-homesteading-navigating-the-journey Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast and get the perks of membership: ⁠⁠⁠https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-is-the-modern-homesteading-membership/

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss Everything You Need To Know About Getting Started Growing Beans On Your Homestead. From The Different Types Of Beans To Grow, To Caring For The Plants, To Harvesting, and Even Using Them For Some Of Your Favorite Dishes. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 244 – June 9, 2024 Find The Show Notes and Links Mentioned at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/beginners-guide-to-growing-beans/ Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast on Patreon and get the perks of membership: ⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss How To Care For Your Animals When The Weather Turns Hot. Having Livestock and Even Pets Comes With The Responsibility Of Reducing Their Stress As Much As Possible During Times Of High Temperatures, Here's How You Can Help Them. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 243 – June 2, 2024 Find the shownotes and the links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/caring-for-animals-in-hot-weather/ Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast on Patreon and get the perks of membership: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss Several Ways To Feed Your Garden and Maintain Healthy Soil and Healthy Plants. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 242 – May 21, 2024 Find the shownotes and the links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/how-to-feed-your-garden-compost-compost-tea-weed-tea-and-more/ Support the Modern Homesteading Podcast on Patreon and get the perks of membership: https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast