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Welcome to the very first episode of Old Fashioned On Purpose!  On today’s episode I’m thrilled to share with you my very unlikely foray into homesteading.  You’ll hear why growing up as city kids didn’t prevent my husband and I from achieving our goal of owning milk cows, cultivating our own gardens, building our own farm, and so much more.

It’s summertime, and beyond the beautiful weather, it means that all of the amazing fruits are in season.  What does in-season fruit mean?  Jam of course!  While I love to make jam, I’ve always found that most jam and jelly recipes are loaded with added sugar.  If you’re anything like me, you want to use as little added sugar as you can.  Today I’m going to teach you how to easily create incredible tasting jams with having to overload them with white sugar.

When Christian and I started our first garden on our homestead, we began with a traditional in-ground garden.  After a somewhat comical mistake involving manure, we quickly had a yard growing in our garden.  Certainly not an ideal situation.  Though a temporary solution worked for a while, we discovered a deeper issue as a result of previous pesticide use. Enter raised beds.  Listen today to find out if raised beds are the right solution for your homestead.

One of the most common concerns I hear from people looking to get into homesteading is what happens when you need to leave or take a vacation? While we want all of the joys that a homestead provides, certainly there can be issues when needing to be away for a prolonged period of time. Fear not my friends, I’m here to explain how you can leave your homestead without a great deal of worry. Listen today to find out how we prepare for trips away from the homestead. This episode is sure to inspire some ideas of your own.

By far the number one fear I hear the most in regards to canning concerns food poisoning. Better known as botulism, this phenomenon has the potential to cause some very serious health problems. While botulism has the can be extremely dangerous, I’m here to provide some guidance to help you mitigate any possible risk. From acidity to temperature to different types of canning, listen to find a comprehensive guide on canning safely.

Today you’re going to learn about a special fertilizer that is sure to produce miracles in your garden. You’ll learn the difference between aerated and non-aerated tea, why non-aerated tea is my weapon of choice, and how you can make it for free.

Hail is one of the most destructive forces when it comes to the health and well-being of your garden. If you’re anything like myself, you can relate to the devastation of walking outside and seeing your garden in tatters following a hail storm.

Unfortunately, a recent storm crushed months of hard work, time, and money. Even though I was bummed and initially wanted to quit gardening, it ultimately wound up creating a positive shift in my attitude. Today I’m going to outline several strategies on how you can salvage, recover, and rebuild moving forward. Don’t miss my idea on how to protect your plants from future storms.

Who knew canning tomatoes was such a controversial subject? When you stumble across canning discussions on Facebook or in other homestead groups, this seems to be one of the most hotly contested topics. Why you might ask? Primarily because many canning organizations challenge certain traditions in terms of how foods should be canned. Fear not my friends.

In today’s episode, I share a simple solution that will allow you to utilize any canning method you desire. I also dig deep into the different factors that can affect the acidity, which ultimately effects the canning method you should use. If you’ve ever wondered how you can stay true to whatever canning method you desire, then this is the podcast for you!

Yes, it’s that special time of year that we all love: Fly Season! For all of my fellow homesteaders currently in the throes of fly season and the ones about to experience it, I’m here to deliver my top four strategies on how to mitigate our pesky little friends.

Are you tired of dealing with soft, squishy pickles? I’m sure I’m not the only one who has dealt with this problem. After years of experimentation and fighting with different recipes, I’ve collected these 5 simple tips to take your pickles to the next level. We’ll learn why small cucumbers are the best, why immediate canning leads to crunchy pickles, and why the blossom end might be our biggest enemy. You’ll also hear about my favorite way to keep pickles fresh for the long-haul.

Have you ever struggled to keep your weeds at bay? It’s one of the most common problems for any homesteader. I don’t know about you, but I sure don’t want to be spending three hours a day in my garden just to keep my weeds under control. Over the years I’ve tried dealing with this issue in many different ways. Today I’m here to share my most effective tips in weed control. These will not only save you time, but they will also give you peace of mind.

As we’re approaching harvesting season on the homestead, it’s crucial to be prepared for the bounty of food that’s about to roll in. Whether it’s coming from your own garden, a farmers market, or other local producers, understanding how to properly preserve the harvest will provide wonderful meals for months to come. Today we’re going to focus on my favorite method of food preparation: canning. In particular, I’m presenting the 5 most common mistakes people make when it comes to canning.

We all make mistakes. Let me tell you, Christian and I have made quite a few on our homesteading journey. In today’s episode, I’m going to dive into the top 5 mistakes we’ve made over the last few years. These learning experiences are sure to save you time, money, and headaches in the process. No matter if you own a homestead, are interested in becoming a homesteader, or simply enjoy learning about the lifestyle, there are valuable lessons to learn throughout.

Eating fruits and vegetables fresh off the vine is always the preferred method for optimum nutritional value. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to consume our fresh foods before they go bad. So what’s the best way to preserve the harvest? Research shows that proper canning is the best way to ensure nutrients remain locked in your foods as long as possible. Listen today to discover everything you need to know about the shelf-life of nutrients when it comes to preserved foods.

Today I’m going to talk about several different options on how you can create raised beds on your own. You’ll also get a detailed explanation on how we built own very own, incredibly unique raised beds made out of steel. I’m hoping this episode will make it clear that there’s no right or wrong way to build a raised bed, it simply comes down to finding something that fits your specific needs.

Although both dairy goats and milk cows are viable options, find out why Christian and I eventually moved to milk cows and sold our goats. Learn the main differences when it comes to cost, pasture space, transportation, and overall taste of milk. If you are considering entering the world of home dairy or contemplating making a switch, this episode will provide everything you need to make an informed decision.

When Christian and I first started out, we were relying on his single income as an electrician. By staying out of debt and focusing on doing anything we could do to earn extra money, it allowed us to build our homestead piece-by-piece. Regardless of where you’re at financially, it’s possible to get into the homestead game. Before you begin on your journey there’s some key things you should know. First and foremost, it’s going to take a serious amount of discipline along with rock solid intent. Second, there’s no right or wrong way to do this. Listen today to find out how Christian and I managed to make our dream a reality and learn some tips and tricks so you can do the same.

Whether or not you are currently a homesteader, I’m willing to bet that we both share this common problem. Time is our most valuable commodity, and usually the first and easiest thing to sacrifice is a good home cooked meal. Today I’m here to not only explain why you don’t have to sacrifice cooking from scratch but also provide the tools you need to make your home cooked meals a reality.

When is the “simple life” not always simple? For those of you transitioning into the homestead lifestyle, it’s pretty much all the time. From barn construction to dairy goats to him baked bread and so much more, it’s a never ending cycle of building and improving. How do I know? I’ve been there. Even with all the homesteading experience Christian and I now have, we still find ourselves overwhelmed at times. Today I’m going to demystify the process of starting a homestead and provide every tip and trick you need to take action today.

On today’s episode, you’re going to learn how Christian and I are managing to raise old-fashioned kids in the modern technological world. How our we accomplishing this? Mostly by providing our kids with unstructured time. It turns out that allowing time for your children to be bored will actually increase their creativity. Who knew? Listen to find out why letting go of your kids is actually the best thing you could ever do as a parent.

If you’re anything like me, you’re always searching for different ways to maximize the yield from you harvest. While I love canning, sometimes the volume of your harvest simply doesn’t warrant going through the process. On today’s episode I’m detailing my favorite way of quickly preserving even the smallest amount of vegetables. Listen to find out the entire process of quick-pickling, the tools you’ll need to pull it off, and some of my favorite recipes.

Herbs have always seemed to be hit or miss for me. While I love the flavor fresh herbs bring to my cooking, I tend to either have more than I know what to do with or none at all. If you’v ever experienced this problem, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. I detail my four favorite methods of preserving herbs for the long haul. Many of you are likely aware of dried herbs. While I do cover dried herbs, I dive into three other techniques that are less common but just as effective. If you want to prepare tasty meals through any season you don’t want to miss this episode.

Potatoes are by far my favorite vegetable. I’d imagine it’s pretty safe to say I’m not alone in my affinity for spuds. No, it’s not even due the fact I was born in Idaho, better known as the home of the potato. My favorite part of harvesting potatoes is the act of digging them up. It’s like treasure hunt every time. Today’s episode is dedicated to everything potatoes. From harvesting to storing to preparing and everything in between, this will prepare you and your family for the coming harvest.

The seasons are changing. Depending on the part of the country you’re in, winter can mean vastly different things. While it’s great to enjoy the current harvest, a homesteader always has to plan ahead with the upcoming season in mind. On today’s episode I dig deep into my favorite tactics on preparing for winter, including amending your soil, cleaning up your plants, adding compost, and so much more.

Apples hold a special place in my heart. This incredible fruit is the very first thing I ever canned on my own. In today’s episode I detail my favorite way to preserve apples for the long-haul. Find out which apple varieties are the best for canning and why naturally sweet apples are always the best choice. Today’s episode will teach you how you can create incredibly tasty, crispy apple slices with minimal use of sugar.

Today I’m here to provide you a very organic, extremely affordable way to fertilize your soil, suppress weeds, increase organic matter, and prevent erosion. I know what you’re thinking. This sounds way too good to be true. I’m happy to tell you, this is very, very real. On this special episode I’m joined by Parker from True Leaf Market, the non-GMO seed company that is literally a dream come true for homesteaders like you and I. By now I’m sure you’re wondering what this incredible and magic solution is. Join Parker and I as we dig deep into cover crops and how they can transform your garden.

Winter is slowly creeping up on us, especially here in Wyoming. After our first frost last week, I knew it was time to start prepping for the season ahead. That being said, we don’t have to give in and close up shop at the first sign of winter. There are a number of different tactics we can utilize to squeeze the last bits of life from our gardens. In fact, the tips I’m outlining in today’s episode have the potential to extend the life of your garden by 6-8 weeks! Pretty incredible, right? Tune in today to discover there easy and relatively inexpensive ways to keep your garden producing into the early stages of winter.

Fermented foods can be a polarizing topic. For quite some time, they literally left a bad taste in my mouth. Have you ever experienced this yourself? It wasn’t until I ventured into the world of crocks that I finally cracked the fermentation code. No matter what side of the fermentation fence you sit on, today’s episode will provide a thorough guide to help you get started.

If you’re on the verge of stepping into the homestead life, this episode is a must listen. Today I’m diving into the most important issues to consider before making an investment in a property. Find out why thinking small can leave you stuck, why climate considerations matter, and why overall lifestyle is important to keep at the front of mind. No matter if you’re purchasing your first homestead or if you’re on the lookout for an upgrade, you’ll find plenty of information to help you make a more informed decision.

Without a doubt, by far the question I get asked the most is how I got started in homesteading. In reality, the better question to ask is why does homesteading even matter in the first place? In today’s episode, I take a deep dive into why homesteading serves such an important purpose in today’s ever increasing technological world. The truth is, no amount of convenience can replicate or replace the satisfaction that comes from homesteading.

It’s no secret. Out of all the aspects of homesteading, the animals are the one thing I can’t live without. Today I’m going to walk you through everything you need to consider prior to adding your first animals to your homestead. You’ll learn where to buy, what to look out for before buying, why quality is always the best route, and so much more. Discover why bloodlines not only lead better animals, but also more dollars in your pocket. Even if you currently have animals on your homestead, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Let’s face it. The modern kitchen isn’t built for the homestead lifestyle. Even after several renovations, my relatively small kitchen requires several key tools to create maximum functionality. If you’ve ever wondered the key items I simply can’t live without, well today is your day. From dutch ovens to wooden spoons and everything in between, load up on these simple tools to make your daily food preparation a breeze.

For many health conscious individuals out there, fat might as well be a four letter word. The sheer thought of using fat to cook might even send chills up your spine. Fear not my friends. Not only do the right fats add a ton of flavor, but many are even good for you. I did a ton of research while building my ideal homestead kitchen, and fat was the common ingredient tying the best recipes together.

Have you ever wondered how you can eliminate sugar from your recipes replace it with 100% natural sweetener that’s actually good for you? This might seem like something made I just made up, but I promise you this is a real ingredient that you can start using immediately. Today I’m joined by homesteader, author, photographer, and maple syrup expert, the incomparable Michelle Visser. Michelle walks us through the incredible process of how to make syrup from beginning-to-end. She also digs deep into why homesteading matters and why she initially had a difficult time with the transition from suburbia.

Cooking with oils tend to be looked at as a no-no in the culinary world. However, with a little practice and some care, essentials oils have become a vital addition to my kitchen cabinet. Today we’re going to investigate how to asses any dangers with essential oils, the efficacy of cooking with them, and the incredible flavor benefits from good oils. Most important, you’ll learn how to separate the good oils from the bad so to ensure you’re putting quality oils in your food.

4-H played a pivotal role in my life growing up. Because of this, I have been counting downs the days until my daughter was able to start participating. Though I had experience of going through 4-H as a kid, it’s entirely different going through it as a parent. In today’s episode, I’m here to share the most valuable tips I learned from my first go-round as a 4-H parent. My goal with this episode is to prepare you and your family for success with 4-H.

No, the title isn’t a mistake. After gaining a reputation online as “the milk cow” girl, once again we have milk goats. Why do we have milk goats again after all these years? Our daughter Mesa decided to use some of her fair money to buy two Paper Nigerian Dwarfs. Listen today to find out why I’m excited to once again have goats on the homestead and what we could be doing with them in the future.

As I sit here today, it’s very clear to look back and see how homeschooling gave me the tools needed to succeed. The disciplined instilled in me at young age allowed me to build the habits that let me excel in college and in business. It gave the me the freedom to explore passions that I never would’ve been able to if I attended public schools. To be very clear, I’m not saying homeschooling is the only way or that public schooling is bad. I’m here to relay my experiences and explain how homeschooling can be beneficial in the long run.

When push comes to shove, I always prefer to let a broody hen hatch her eggs rather than getting chicks from the feed store. However, sometimes it’s just not that simple. If you’ve ever been curious about broody hens or have dealt with this yourself, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. What I have for you today is a crash course on everything you need in order to successfully deal with a broody hen. Keep your pen and pad handy. This episode is full of useful gems.

What’s it like to be a homesteading, homeschooling, entrepreneur, from-scratch-cooking, mom-of-three? I’ll be the first to admit, it can be exhausting. While I work to keep a set schedule, depending on the seasonal duties I have I need to keep things a little fluid. Fair warning, my schedule isn’t to be used as a template for everyone. I’m simply here to show you how I manage my busy life with the hope that you can take some bits and pieces to improve yours.

Home dairy is a bit of a status symbol in the homesteading community. However, there are three very big myths that prevent most homesteaders from even getting started. In today’s episode I expound on these myths as well as outlining many incredible uses for home dairy (hint: it’s not just milk).

If you’ve followed me for any period of time, you’d certainly know my deep love for all things butter. It’s by far my favorite dairy-made product. Today you’ll learn the process of making your own butter at home and the incredible advantages it provides over store bought butter. To be honest, you’ll be shocked at how easy this really is to do. I hope this inspires you to start making butter of your own today!

There is no shortage of information out there when it comes to homesteading. The unfortunate thing is that most of it is just fluff. Today I’m here to provide you a quick start guide so that you can get on the correct path on your journey. Learn why food is always the top priority on the homestead and how you can start weeding out poor choices immediately. Find out why the most important part of starting a homestead will always be taking action.

Have you ever used ancient grains in your cooking? If you’re new to the game, you’ll likely realize that using Einkorn flour produces a much different experience when it comes to cooking and baking. Today we’re going to explore the health benefits of using Einkorn and other ancient grains. We’re also going to dig into different uses and what to expect when you first go to use ancient grains in your cooking.

Yes my friends, it’s that wonderful time of the year. Thanksgiving is upon us and for most of us that means one thing: turkey. On today’s episode, I’m thrilled to share my favorite way of cooking a turkey. Brining offers the best combination of deep flavor and juiciness. Beyond brining, I’ll share some of my favorite turkey related stories. If you’re stressed out about the big day, fear not. This show will provide all the information you need to make cooking your turkey a breeze.

Are you tired of the same old processed foods you’ve been eating at Thanksgiving? I’m here today to show you why cooking Thanksgiving the homestead way is the absolute best way to go. On today’s episode I’ll explore my favorite way to cook a turkey, why mashed potatoes are the best, my ideal way to prepare cranberry sauce, and so much more. This episode will provide the blueprint for crafting the most incredible home-cooked Thanksgiving ever!

Do you ever dream of the homestead life, but shutter at the thought of living so far away from town? I can’t even begin to count the number of people that’ve voiced this exact concern over the years. Don’t worry. I get it. The full-on homestead life isn’t necessarily for everyone. Don’t fret my friends, today I’m here to offer up ideas on how you can get a taste of the homestead life without ever leaving suburbia. On this episode I cover everything from gardening to keeping your own animals. This is a must listen for anyone that wants to get a taste of the homestead life!

Time is by far our most valuable asset. While I love cooking delicious, healthy, and wholesome food, it can be an extremely time consuming task. I can’t tell you how many hours I’ve wasted in the kitchen on a daily basis Today I provide my favorite tips and tricks to save time every single week. Find out the staples that are always in my kitchen and on the shopping list, how to batch, and why it’s important to keep a list of easy-to-make meals on hand. If you’re spending too much time in the kitchen on a daily basis, this episode is a must listen.

Milk is magic. It’s an incredibly versatile liquid that has the ability to morph into so many amazing things. Today I’m focusing on three of my all-time favorite milk recipes that will leave you coming back for more. Specifically I’m talking about yogurt, ricotta, and buttermilk. These three recipes are not only delicious, they’re also easy to make! Want to make these phenomenal recipes in your very own kitchen?

The word ‘cast iron’ exudes strength in-and-of itself. For some reason, the internet might have you believing these types of pans are delicate little flowers. No matter what you think at this point, I’m here to bust some common cast iron myths that will have you converting in no time flat. Listen today to learn how to properly season your pan, how to save rusty pans, and hear me bust the largest, most common myth when it comes to cast iron.

Have you ever dreamed of publishing your own book? I can tell you from experience, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding processes you can ever undertake. On today’s episode, I’m drifting a bit from the traditional podcast. Come with me as we take a journey from initial idea to published book. We’ll talk literary agents, the difficult editing process, the computer crash that nearly broke me, and everything in between. Whether you’re interested in writing a book or not, you’ll gain immense behind-the-scenes insight on how my cookbook was actually assembled!

This is what we all dream of, right? Of course our love of the homestead life is why we get involved in the first place, but the idea of actually making a living off the homestead (or even just a little extra money) can seem far-fetched. Today I’m not just here to explain why this is entirely possible, but I’m also providing 6 proven ways to start making money off your homestead. From selling animal products to creating homestead experiences and everything in between, I know one of these ideas are sure to spark something in your mind. Have you done anything to make money on your homestead? If so, be sure to share!

Are you struggling to keep up with an increasingly busy schedule filled with 4-H, homeschooling, tending to the milk cows, and all of the other wonderful things that come with life on the homestead? I’m in the thick of it right now and let me tell you, it ain’t no joke ya’ll! Like most of you listening, I’ve always felt a certain way about freezer meals. My first association had always been bland, lifeless casseroles. As a proud homesteader, they always felt like cheating to some degree. It wasn’t until I took a serious deep dive into into meal prep that I realized the power and convenience of well thought out freezer meals. On today’s episode, I explain how and why my mindset shifted around freezer meals. I also offer up my favorite tips and tricks to maximize flavor and make efficient use of your time. Let’s get cooking!

Are you dreading the oncoming winter nights? For quite some time, winter really got me down. More than anything, I was bored. After spending almost all of my time outside in the spring and summer months, I felt sequestered to my house as the frosty months passed by. I’m happy to say this has drastically changed over the years. By picking up new hobbies, learning to appreciate the change in seasons, and generally getting outside my comfort zone, I’ve learned how to shake the cold-weather blues.

As I detailed in a past episode, there’s a lot of misinformation and folklore when it comes to cast iron. This incredible cookware is a staple in my kitchen and it deserves a special place in yours as well. For anyone who has been intimidated by cast iron in the past, this episode will not only ease your fears, it’ll give you the confidence to use cast iron on a regular basis. I even explain how I cook scrambled eggs in cast iron! Tune in to find out how to start utilizing this amazing tool in your kitchen.

Depending on the part of the country you’re in, you’re likely finding yourself in the thick of winter. While I’ve learned to love some of the winter moments, there are several keys you must keep in mind to ensure your animals stay safe throughout the cold months. On today’s episode, I layout how we stay prepped for the rough weather. This includes anything from shelter, watering systems, adjusted feeding schedules, and so much more. No matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a homestead newbie, you’re sure to take a lot of value from this podcast.

Although I was born in Idaho, I still call Wyoming my home. Wyoming is an incredible place, but before you pack up the chickens and head this way, I’m here to explain the good, the bad, and the ugly about homesteading in Wyoming. In today’s episode I describe why your diet can affect where you choose to establish a homestead, why weather needs to be a serious consideration, and how to determine the ideal situation based on your needs. If you’re still sitting on the sidelines when it comes to homesteading, this episode will provide a number of important things to consider before jumping in.

Winter in Wyoming means frequent trips outside to grab firewood for our wood stove. So why heat with wood in the first place? Economy, efficiency, and independence highlight the incredible benefits of heating your home with a wood stove. While I do profess the use of wood, there are a number of things you need to consider before jumping in and installing a wood stove in your home. Man sure to check out the link below for even more information!

Modern life is convenient, but is this always a good thing? Generally speaking, if something is becoming easier, quality is likely being sacrificed in the process. As things become easier, we become more-and-more comfortable. We become complacent and eventually stop growing. While I’m not here today to bash technology and all of our wonderful modern conveniences, today I’m here to explain why taking on a challenge is essential for our long-term growth. For me, it’s chopping firewood in the cold. What is it for you?

Looking back on how things started, it’s truly quite incredible to reflect on how I arrived at the point. For anyone that has followed for any length of time, you’d know that my entire venture into entrepreneurship started with a blog. When I first started, I had no intention of making money. All I really wanted to do was tell my story. It wasn’t until a friend reached out to me asking for advice that I realized the possibilities that were in front of me. If you’ve ever wondered where I got my start and how I’ve progressed in the business world, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. I can only hope that this inspires you to start a journey of your own.

One of the most common questions when it comes to homesteading is “What do you do to keep the animals warm in the winter?” Naturally, our first instinct is to grab lamps or other forms of heating elements. The thing that most of us forget is that the vast majority or animals are designed to withstand the cold own their own. Above anything else, animals just need a way to get out of the wind and a way to stay dry. On today’s episode I’m going to explain what we do in our chicken coop and provide the essential elements need for ever coop.

Once again we’ve arrived at that magical time of the year. The special time where hope springs eternal and a new year is upon us. I’ve always loved this last week of the year because it gives me the opportunity to reflect on the past year and plan what’s to come. On today’s episode, I layout the steps I always take to ensure I’m ready for success going into the new year.

Intentionally or unintentionally, sometimes we can hide parts of ourselves that others would really like to see. If you follow me on social media or any of the other places my brand shows up to the world, it might be easy to assume that I always live some perfect curated life. The truth is, we all have things about ourselves that might surprise other people. On today’s episode, I’m here to share some things about myself that I’ve never openly talked about. I’m sure that this episode will turn some people off and that’s fine. today’s all about releasing things that you’ve been suppressing and shifting into the truest version of yourself.

It seems that today that many kids lack one of the most important skills that leads to long term success in every area of life. This of course is creativity. It seems that creativity could be getting stifled by the evolution of technology. As things become easier and easier to access at the push of a button, we’re filling our free time with mindless activities that don’t allow for precious boredom to set in. Creativity essential to develop is because it teaches us how to solve problems, how to deal with failure, and how to overcome obstacles. Listen today to find out how I’m personally developing my own creativity and how my kids are as well.

When it comes to homesteading, one of the most overlooked essentials is a well-stocked pantry. Whether it’s an unexpected road closure, a blizzard, or a few additional guests, planning for the unexpected is sure to save you time and stress. On today’s episode, I walk you through the absolute must-haves from my very own pantry. Learn why to buy meat in bulk, what fats I always keep on hand, and so much more.

On previous episodes, I’ve discussed how homeschooling has reaped massive benefits in my life. I’ve even discussed how my children are benefitting from the exact same practice. On today’s episode I’m here to pull back the curtain on how Christian and I homeschool our children. I discuss everything including schedules, books we use, the main differences between homeschooling and public schooling, and so much more.

Yes. I said it. I don’t like ‘homesteading’ anymore. When I first got involved with ‘homesteading’, the word carried a certain endearing quality. It somehow encompassed the animals, the open fields, the freedom, and the community. Most of all, ‘homesteading’ represented being a bit of a maverick. In the very beginning there weren’t that many homesteaders. Today, it seems everyone is taking their shot at homesteading. No longer is what we call homesteading confined to the farm in Wyoming. All across the U.S. and all around the globe people are diving into what I’m now referring to as an old-fashioned lifestyle. Listen today to find out exactly what I mean by this and how you can get involved now.

While I absolutely LOVE living in the country, there are certainly some challenges you have to deal with. One of the biggest challenges is grocery shopping. While we do grow and produce many different food items on our homestead, due to our growing seasons and climate restrictions it simply isn’t possible to produce everything we need on our own. So how do we cope? I’m glad you asked! On today’s episode I’m going to layout my method for supplementing our own produce with market and store bought items, big box stores, online marketplaces, and much, much more.

Cast iron can be intimidating. With all of the misinformation floating around, it’s easy to understand why some avoid it all together. Cast iron is by far my favorite way to cook, but it can present some real challenges for any new user. Today we cover the difference between standard cast iron, enamel coated cast-iron, when you should and shouldn’t season your pan, what to do with a pre-seasoned pan, some brands to check out, and so much more. I explain what to look out for with garage sale and Goodwill finds, and I also go why you basically can’t go wrong with any cast iron. If you’ve been wanting to get into the cast iron game but didn’t know where to start. This episode is specifically for you.

With the rapid evolution of technology and modern conveniences in our society, it’s easy to ask if the old ways are falling to the wayside. While it’s true that some things are bound to disappear, it’s also true that from the hustle of New York City to the calm of the Wyoming countryside, more-and-more people are discovering homesteading each and every day. It might not be a full-on homestead as you and I know it to be, but people are growing their own food and raising animals despite their location and climate restrictions. Even with the growth of society at large, today I discuss why I don’t see the old ways disappearing anytime soon.

While I thought that some people might question how we pull off homesteading with kids, it turns out this is one of the most-asked questions among listeners. The truth is, it has everything to do with our parenting style. While I’m sure there are people who will disagree with some of our ideals, this is just me explaining what works for our family on the homestead. It’s not perfect by any means, but our ultimate focus is to get our kids comfortable with being uncomfortable, teach them how to deal with challenges, let them learn how to entertain themselves, and so much more.

I’ve failed in nearly every way imaginable attempting to make sourdough. So why would you listen to me? I’ve taken the lumps so you don’t have to. On today’s episode, I’m walking you step-by-step through my favorite way to make a sourdough starter. Not only have I found this method to be extremely effective, but you’ll be amazed at how simple this process really is. I’m here to show you that heritage cooking doesn’t always have to be difficult.

As a gardening fanatic, one of my favorite times of the year has arrived. I don’t know about you, but when my seed catalogs arrive at the beginning of the year I find it hard to contain myself. About seven years ago I started using heirloom seeds exclusively. Why did I make the switch? On today’s episodes I dive into many different reasons why I prefer heirloom seeds and the characteristics that make them different from traditional seeds. I even provide my two favorite resources for heirloom seeds. If you’ve ever been curious about heirlooms, this episode will give you everything that you need to know to get started on your journey.

Perhaps the biggest road block anyone faces on the homesteading journey is trying to figure out how to buy land. It’s such a big issue that it prevents most people from considering the homestead life in the first place. On today’s episode, I explain several strategies that we utilized in order to make our homesteading life work. Beyond simple strategies like cleaning up debt and working extra jobs, I explain why the correct mindset can power your through any barrier keeping you from living the homestead life. Today we’re going to focus on asking ourselves ‘what if’?

For quite some time I was terrified of nitrates. In all honesty, it was a big source of anxiety for a long time. This didn’t relent until sometime last year when I started digging deep into the truth behind nitrates. Come to find out, nitrates aren’t all that bad. Many are even naturally occurring in our favorite meats. Today’s episode is dedicated to busting nitrate related myths and reassuring you that they in fact are not carcinogenic. Be sure to check out the links below for some incredible information I found regarding this very subject!

Have you ever dreamed of starting your own garden but have no idea on where to start? You are in luck my friends. Starting a garden can be extremely intimidating for any first timer. This episode provides a ground-up plan that is so simple anyone can get into the game. I cover key aspects like checking your gardening zone, what equipment you’ll need, types of seeds, and the benefits of soil testing.

Frugality is something that I’ve always seen as an admirable quality. As most of you know, this is how I grew up and how Christian and I generally live our lives. Believe it or not, there are times where frugality can hurt you. Today I’m going to address two specific warning signs that frugality is getting the best of you. While I’m not here to preach a right-or-wrong way of doing things, I am encouraging you to take a look at your own habits and behaviors to see if these warning signs are getting the best of you. It’s incredible the amount of stress you can relieve with a few minor changes. This is a must listen for all my frugal homesteaders out there.

I don’t know about you, but we are in the dead of winter out here in Wyoming. Inevitably during this time of year, our chickens just don’t produce the same amount of eggs as they normally do. While the weather is certainly a factor, the are a number of possible reasons why your chicken isn’t producing. If you’re ready to figure out how light, age, molting, and so much more have the potential to dramatically shift the production you’re getting out of your chickens. Don’t worry my friends. I’m not here to just point out problems. I’m here to offer solutions. If you’re someone who’s dealt with the frustration of a broody hen, this episode is a must listen.!

Few things that strike greater fear into the heart of a homesteader than the word botulism. If you’re anything like me, you’ve come to have a healthy respect for canning safety due to the potential serious consequences of improper canning. On today’s episode I detail why recipes that contain dairy, flour, and high levels of fat shouldn’t be canned. You’ll also learn why canning is the one place in the kitchen where you don’t want to mess around with changing a recipe.

Natural health remedies seem to share a certain distinction when it comes to health care. While that may be the case, we’ve found many different herbs and essential oils to be a key component of maintaining good health. On today’s episode, I explore the different tactics that I’m utilizing with my family. This involves everything, including simple habits like getting more sleep and eating less sugar to how to maintain proper gut health. You’ll also get my opinion on the ever important hand-sanitizer debate. If you’re seeking some extra things you can do to help maintain the health of you and your family, you’ve come to the right place.

One of my favorite days of the year has arrived. The seeds for my garden showed up! If you’re anything like me, you’re in full-on garden prep mode. On a recent episode, I discussed my long-term love for heirloom seeds. On today’s episode, I dive deep into what I have planned for my garden this year. From broccoli to peppers to spinach and everything in between, I explain why I’m planting each of these crops and why some may-or-may not work for you. I also share an important lesson that I learned over the years: plant what you eat, not what you think you should.

Do you ever reach the end of the day and wonder where all your time went? Do you look at your “to-do’s” and wonder how you’ll ever get it all done? Fitting the homestead lifestyle into the speed of the modern day world can create some serious problems. When it comes down to it, there’s little we can do to speed up the pace of mother nature. This means as homesteaders that we need to focus on time management in the areas of life that we can control. On today’s episode I share 7 of my favorite ways to save time both short-term and long-term. Some of these tips will require a bit of setup but will make your life so much easier in the long-run.

Personal development has been an essential tool over the years. Looking back, I realize that some of the assesments I’ve taken have provided the biggest opportunities for growth. They help point out common personality characteristics and their underlying tendencies. On today’s episode, I’m proud to present a creation of very own. See if you identiy with any of these 4 types of Homesteaders. How can this information help you?

Winter on the homestead has become one of my favorite times of the year. It’s that special time of year when I can come inside, cozy up next to the fire with a warm drink, and lose myself in good book. On today’s episode I’m sharing what I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the winter. I’m also sharing my favorite sources of reading material, including new and used books, audio books, magazines, and more. What are you reading this year? Drop me a comment and share what you’re excited to read in the coming months. I’m always looking for new suggestions.

Innovation and technology serve us in so many different ways. Whether it’s making things more convenient, easier, or faster, new tools and techniques allow us to live our lives in different ways. Needless to say, new isn’t always better. When it comes to the kitchen, wooden kitchen tools still reign supreme on the Winger homestead. On today’s episode, I expand on why these phenomenal tools deserve a place in your kitchen. I explain what you need to do in order to properly clean and care for your wooden utensils. I also discuss the most common myth with wood in the kitchen (hint: bacteria) and provide some information that’s likely to shock you.

Thanks to social media, I might appear to be some type of super woman. The truth of the matter is, Instagram and Facebook posts never tell the full story no matter how transparent I try to be. I’m able to “Do It All” because I’ve become extremely efficient with time management and have realized that I simply can’t do it all. On today’s episode, I explain how things like finding help, saying no, and blocking time have enabled me to not only become super productive, but also free up more time in order to pursue other things that fill me up.

If you’ve been listening or following me for a while, you’d know that it was horses that actually spurred my initial interest in homesteading. While most people wouldn’t consider a horse as a traditional ‘homestead’ animal, I’ve found that they hold a very special place in our daily lives. On today’s episode, I explain how to make sure you’re getting the right type of horse for you and your family. More important, I explain why a horse is NOT your dog.

I’m not going to lie. This episode is likely to ruffle some feathers. However, this is a topic that’s been weighing on my mind for quite some time. On various videos or social media posts, I’ve received a number of questions about how Christian and I have been able to afford our homestead. Many assume we come from a wealthy background, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. I’m here to explain how we found a small property, got out of debt, worked odd jobs, and built our homestead overtime. Let me tell you, it’s incredible how creative you can get when you want it bad enough.

Believe it or not, many of the best ways to use up leftover sourdough starter have nothing to do with baking bread. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with your leftover sourdough starter, then this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. Join me on today’s show where you’ll learn my top 5 favorite discard recipes, including pancakes, waffles, and biscuits. So slow your roll, don’t ditch that dough, and find out how to take advantage of that discard in this incredibly helpful episode.

Between late frosts in the spring, early frosts in the fall, blizzards in the middle of May, and everything in between, Wyoming is one of the most difficult climates you’ll find to grow a garden. So I do I combat this every year? I focus on understanding the frost cycle and only grow what will thrive in our zone. I start seeds inside to capitalize on prime growing season. Learn why you should be leery of the big box stores and why working with local suppliers who know your zone is crucial. If you’ve thought gardening was impossible in your area, this show is an absolute must listen!

It’s no secret by now. If you’ve been listening at all to the podcast lately, you’d know that I’ve got gardening on my mind. I’ve said i many times before but I’ll say it once again; gardening is likely a close second on my “what I love about homesteading list”, trailing only the animals. Wha’s the best news out of all this win it comes to gardening? It’s far easier than you think. Listen to today’s show to find out why and gain some valuable tips on how you can get started today!

While I love to cook, at times it can become a drag. With everything we have going on with the kids, our various businesses, and the responsibilities of running a homestead, at times I end to fallback on the tried-and-true recipes that my family has loved throughout the years. While this might be easy and efficient, things tend to get stale over time. On today’s episode I’m here to share some of my favorite ways on how to shake the funk and get the creative juices flowing. Whether it’s finding new ways to cook old recipes, committing to cooking at last one new meal per week, or buying some new herbs you’ve never tried, there’s always a way to get yourself out of a rut.

Have you ever jumped head first into starting seeds and quickly find yourself overwhelmed? Trust me, when I first started expanding my garden I was right there with you. The truth is that this will always be the case unless you build a system for planting seeds. Well my friends, with the days getting longer and the air outside feeling a bit different, it’s finally time to start the seeds. Today I’m going to walk you through my own system for starting seeds, complete with full instructions so you can tame this beast once and for all. If you want to find out what coconuts and aluminum foil have to do with getting your garden ready for the spring, listen to this episode now!

While we’d all love an open, sunny spot to plant our garden, the reality of it is some things are beyond our control. Rest assured, a shady spot doesn’t always mean a death sentence. On today’s episode, I explain how it’s possible to grow a garden even without ideal sunlight.

Contrary to popular belief, I wasn’t born into the homestead life. If you go back and listen to some of my first episodes you can get the full story on how Christian and I caught the homestead bug. In the end, learning how to homestead has been nothing more than an insatiable desire to learn and taking massive imperfect action everyday. Listen today as I dig into some of my favorite places to gather information. I know some of you will be inspired to take some action of your own.

Have you ever tried to save a piece of cast iron and found yourself in way too deep? This was my story just last week. After staring at a skillet in my kitchen for years, I finally decided to do something about it. After testing several different solutions, most unsuccessfully, I stumbled upon something that finally worked! Listen today to find out how coconut oil, lard, or flaxseed oil might be your savior when it comes to that old, beat up skillet.

To say the world is full of uncertainty is a bit of an understatement at the moment. We’re living in some uncharted waters as a country and as humans in general. I for one can say my mind has been spinning over the past couple weeks. Even with the craziness in the world, the events of the past few weeks has reassured me the choice we made to begin the homesteading journey. Not only are we in a position to produce for for our family, but if it’s needed, we can help the community and inspire others to adopt some of our ways. As you listen today, I’d like for you to keep this in mind; we have a responsibility to help and share knowledge in this time of need. How can you help?

Seemingly in the blink of an eye, the world became homeschoolers. For some of you listening, it’s business as usual. For others? Full time panic mode has ensued. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a rookie doing this for the first time, I’m here to offer some guidance that anyone can use regardless of experience. I explore some of the most common issues people have when it comes to homeschooling (hint: you don’t have to be perfect) and offer solutions that are sure to ease some stress. Rest assured, most of these ideas are extremely simple and require zero expense. I’m excited to share these ideas with you, and I know they’ll have a positive impact on your homeschooling experience.

What do you do when everything goes as you hoped, or perhaps even better than you hoped? While it’s great to be able to produce our own food on the homestead, sometimes we find ourselves with a perishable bounty that needs to be dealt with. On today’s episode, I explain how I’m dealing with an excess of eggs. While selling some is always an option, listen to find out how I use this abundance in order to inspire new dishes. I also share some of my favorite preservation techniques so you can still enjoy your eggs when they’re off-season. If you have chickens on your homestead, this episode is a must listen!

With everything going on in the world today, it’s important to always check back in on some basics. For everyone that has followed me for any period of time, you’d know canning is easily one of my favorite things when it comes to homesteading. I know what many are you thinking right now: why can dry beans? On today’s episode I’m going to explain the many benefits of canning dry beans as well as share my favorite canning method.

The chicks are here! Yes, it’s that time of year. Last year we were a bit behind the eight ball and missed out on meat chickens. Not this time my friend. If you’ve ever wanted to raise meat chickens but have yet to take the plunge, this episode is for you. I dive deep into what makes a great meat chickens, why you shouldn’t let your chickens grow too fast, what to feed your chicken, and so much more.

On today’s episode, I’m taking a bit of a departure from my traditional format to dive into the present state of our homestead. I cover everything from prepping raised beds, meat chickens, what we’re doing with our milking setup, and so much more. While we might still be waiting for the cold weather and the snow to pass, things are slowly starting to ramp up in our world. Let’s get ready for spring!