The Modern Homesteading Podcast (Harold Thornbro and Rachel Jamison)

On This Episode of The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold Has A Conversation With The Host Of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner, About Teaching Homesteading and Homeschooling Curriculum.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 191 – February 28, 2023

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and other exclusive rewards - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About, Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/teaching-homesteading-through-homeschooling-curriculum-with-guest-kody-hanner/

On today’s podcast my guest is Heather Eby. Heather and her family have a ten acre homestead in Kansas and they are building their homestead by adding one new thing at a time. Heather is a wonderful story teller and blogger with a real passion for homesteading.

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Heather and I discuss:

Why she became a homesteader.

The slow progress of her homestead rather than trying to do too many new things at once.

The variety of livestock on her homestead: chickens, ducks, sheep, goats, and dairy cows.

Some great predator stories: snakes, foxes and coyotes.

A walk through her garden. What she’s growing and the layout.

Her one tree orchard.

Some thoughts on future plans for her homestead.

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You can check out more about Heather and her homestead at her blog – https://selfsufficiencyandotherassortedhijinks.wordpress.com/

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 Today’s Podcast Episode Harold Has A Conversation With Rick Beach, Owner of Wolf Beach Farms and Admin of The Homesteaders Of Indiana Bartering Facebook Group, About The Benefits and Challenges Of Bartering and How You Can Get Started.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 210 – July 3, 2023

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About, Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/the-benefits-of-bartering-for-the-homestead-guest-rick-beach/

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 I will discuss everything you need to know about building your very own diy rainwater catchment system. From why you should build one, where it should be, to the details of how to build a rainwater capturing setup.

I discuss:

Why you should consider putting in a rainwater catchment system.Laws pertaining to rainwater catchment.Where to install a rainwater catchment system.Options for capturing water.Specific pieces to a catchment system.How to care for and maintain a catchment system.Using the water from your rainwater catchment system.

Shownotes at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/preparing-trees-vines-canes-and-bushes-for-winter/ 

Topic: 

Preparing Trees, Vines, Canes, and Bushes For Winter

Trees

     Mulch The Base

     Keep Away From Trunk

     Mulch Options

     Living Mulch

Wrap Trees In Extreme Climates

     Commercial Options and DIY Options

     Prevents Frost Damage On Bark

     Protection Against Pests

Don’t Prune Until Dormant

Don’t Fertilize In Fall

Continue To Water When Needed

Vines

     Clean Vineyard Floor To Reduce Disease and Pest Pressure

     Fertilize With Compost or Organic Fertilizer

     Protect Trunk and Graft Union By Hilling Up

     Mulch

     Prune When Dormant

Canes

     Prune Out Brown Dead Canes

     If You Want To Expand Bury Young Canes In Soil Or Mulch

     Cut Ends Of Canes To Encourage Side Shoot Growth

Bushes

     pH Adjustment

     Mulch Heavily

     Prune When Dormant

     Wait Until Spring To Fertilize

Links:

(Some Links Below May Be Affiliate Links)

Ramial wood chips:

https://www.groworganicapples.com/organic-orcharding-articles/ramial-wood-chip-primer.php

Seasonal Checklist for orchard:

https://www.groworganicapples.com/organic-orcharding-articles/holistic-orchard-seasonal-checklist.php

Tree Protector Wrap - https://amzn.to/3At3ja4 

How To Prune Raspberries - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/a-quick-guide-to-planting-raspberry-bushes/ 

Pruning Blackcurrant - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/how-to-prune-blackcurrant-bushes-the-right-way-a-quick-guide/ 

Pollarding and Coppicing Trees and Shrubs - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/pollarding-and-coppicing-trees-and-shrubs-why-and-how/ 

What You Need To Know About PH And Organic Soil - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-ph-and-organic-soil/ 

The Holistic Orchard: Tree Fruits and Berries the Biological Way by Michael Phillips - https://amzn.to/3Q14L9G 

Micheal Pillips:

YouTube - Holistic Orchard Management with Michael Phillips

Successful Biological Orcharding with Michael Phillips Parts 1-8 - YouTube (these are bite size pieces of above)

BackYard Berry Book:

The Backyard Berry Book: A Hands-On Guide to Growing Berries, Brambles, and Vine Fruit in the Home Garden: Otto, Stella

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/

On Today’s Podcast Episode Harold Has A Conversation With Functional Medicine Practitioner and Clinical Herbalist, Aron McNicholas About Herbalism, Foraging, and Holistic Medicine.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 213 – July 24, 2023

Find the shownotes and all the links mentioned for this episode at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/herbalism-foraging-and-holistic-medicine-guest-aron-mcnicholas/

Learn More About Our Membership Club at https://modernhomesteadingmembership.com

On today’s podcast episode I will discuss how you can make the most out of what you have by giving you 21 ideas to help you grow a lot of food on a small homestead. These ideas can be used for urban, suburban, and even rural homesteaders for increasing the amount of food they grow.

Homestead Inspirational Quote of the Day:

“I can think of no better form of personal involvement in the cure of the environment than that of gardening. A person who is growing a garden, if he is growing it organically, is improving a piece of the world. He is producing something to eat, which makes him somewhat independent of the grocery business, but he is also enlarging, for himself, the meaning of food and the pleasure of eating.” ~Wendell Berry

No one should underestimate the influence of a simple garden, it can do so much more than just provide food, but yes it can do that too.  ?

Homestead Updates:

The weather has been beautiful. 

Mason Bees have moved in. 

The roof on the new rabbitry and quail aviary.

Birds ate all my tomato plants, greenhouse is really going to pay off.

Haven’t made time to get in the woods for some mushroom hunting… but we should.

Homesteading Relevant News:

Rising demand for organic, non-GMO grains outpaces U.S. production

DC mayor wants to ban backyard chickens

Main Topic Of Discussion:

21 Ideas To Help You Grow A Lot Of Food On A Small Homestead

Trellises – Lattice, Fencing, Poles, Wire, Rope, etc.

Dwarf and Espalier – Getting The Most From Fruit Trees In Small Spaces.

Window Box Planters – Beauty and Function.

Hanging Baskets – Not Just For Flowers.

Barrel Planters – Great DIY Project With Big Results.

Potato Towers – Many Different Designs For Growing With A Small Footprint.

Pots and Buckets – Sometimes The Simple Things Are The Best.

Square Foot Gardening – Great Method For Growing In Raised Beds.

Along Pathway Edges – A Great Place To Grow Food Where Others Grow Ornamentals.

Make Use Of Unused Space – Driveway, Parking Strip, On Top Of Doghouse, etc.

Build Guilds –

Aquaponics – http://www.backyardaquaponics.com/

Take Advantage Of Shady Areas – Best Shade-Tolerant Vegetables, Fungi Perfecti

High Yield, Low Footprint – High-Yield Vegetable Plants for Small Garden Spaces

Start Seeds Indoors – Get An Early Start By Starting Where You Can…Indoors.

Cold Frames – An Easy Way To Extend Your Season.

Greenhouse – Not For Everyone But A Great Addition To A Small Backyard.

Attract Pollinators – Increase Yields By Inviting These Friends To The Garden.

Encourage Beneficial Insects – Protect Your Garden By Inviting These Friends.

Indoor Growing – Increase Your Yield By Growing Year Round.

Raise Small Livestock – Who Said It Had To Be All About Gardening.

Today’s Recommendations:

Sow Edible Permaculture Podcast

The Suburban Micro-Farm by Amy Stross

https://redemptionpermaculture.com/21-popular-permaculture-garden-hand-tools/

No matter what you do in life, the proper tools can make a huge difference. Having those proper tools on hand before you need them can save you a lot of time and frustration.

So here is a list of 21 popular tools that gardeners often use and you may want to get before you need them.

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold has a conversation with Ashley Burton from Mulberry Branch Farm about her homesteading journey, dairy goats, and her involvement helping organize the Indiana Homesteading Conference.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 200 – May 1, 2023

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and other exclusive rewards - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About, Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/building-a-homestead-from-a-cornfield-dairy-goats-and-the-importance-of-community-guest-ashley-burton/

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold has a conversation with Eddy Garcia of Living Earth Systems about his journey into off-grid living and regenerative agriculture. We also dive into methods for transforming a conventional farm into a profitable and productive regenerative farm quickly.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 205 – June 1, 2023

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and other exclusive rewards - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About, Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/off-grid-living-restoring-land-and-transforming-conventional-farms-to-regenerative-farms-guest-eddy-garcia/

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 117 – March 17, 2019 – Homesteading and Chicken Chat With Guest Alyssa Olson

On this podcast episode i’m joined by homesteader and blogger Alyssa Olson from thesheepshedmn.com as we talk about her homestead and starting a chicken flock.

On this podcast episode I discuss 7 perennials you might want to consider growing on your homestead. I go over how to prepare, maintain and make best use of these perennials.

On this podcast episode, I answer a few questions from listeners. I talk about what to get started with on a new homestead, mistakes I’ve made and what I’d do different, getting away from the homestead and farm sitters, what to look for on a new homestead, guest rules on my homestead, what I’ve decided to stop doing and making use of a leach field area.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 106 – September 30, 2018 – How To Grow and Have Fresh Lettuce All Year.

It is great to grow your own food, harvest that food and then in some form or another preserve that food to make it available year round. What is even better though is having something fresh from the garden you can eat year round.

On this podcast episode I answer a listener question about how I grow lettuce for fresh salads year round in a four season climate.

On Today's Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss Homesteading and Technology, The Pros and Cons, and a Few Specific Things That Can Make A Difference On The Homestead.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 241 – April 28, 2024

Fing The Shownotes and Links Mentioned at : https://redemptionpermaculture.com/homesteading-and-technology/

On This Episode of The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Rachel Has A Conversation With Certified Clinical Aromatherapist and Aromatic Gardner Amy Anthony, About Aromatherapy, Essential Oils, Herbs, and Aromatic Plants and Their Use On The Homestead.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 192 – March 7, 2023

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and other exclusive rewards - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About, Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/aromatherapy-on-the-homestead-with-guest-amy-anthony/

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 79 - Raising Coturnix Quail On The Homestead

In this podcast episode, I discuss what you need to know to get started raising Jumbo Brown Coturnix Quail on your homestead. I talk about the basic facts about these quail, general care and equipment needed as well as some the benefits from this wonderful livestock.

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

On today’s podcast episode, Harold and Rachel talk about everything you need to know about starting your garden from seeds.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 236 – March 3, 2024

Find the shownotes and links mentioned at - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/getting-started-with-seed-starting/

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

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold has a conversation with Mandy Roth of Evergreen Winds Homestead about her homestead, the things she and her family are doing, and the reasons she is doing it.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 206 – June 7, 2023

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and other exclusive rewards - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About, Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/homesteading-for-the-enjoyment-of-the-lifestyle-guest-mandy-roth/

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 83 – May 21, 2018 – Planting Trees and Shrubs In Less Than Ideal Soil.

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/

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, I chat with Tanya Morrison, she is a homesteader in Alberta Canada pursuing a journey “back” to off-grid living while taking advantage of modern technology. We also talk a lot about her business ideas that will help others get started homesteading with chickens.

Tanya and I chat about:

What led her down a path to self-sufficiency

Her off-grid experiences as a child

The animals she is currently raising on her homestead

Livestock guardian dogs

The challenges of predator pressure on her livestock

Her future homesteading inspired business ventures

Encouraging others to pursue homesteading

Learning homesteading skills

Off-grid heating

Composting toilets

Alternative energy

Frugal Living

and Much More.

Today is Day 9 of our 30 days of homesteading Q&A on the podcast where I have reached out to some of the best bloggers and podcasters in the homesteading space to answer your questions about homesteading.

Today’s question is “It’s my first year with chickens and wanted some advice on preparing for winter. Is there anything special I need to do for my birds or anything I need to pay special attention to through the winter?”

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Answering today’s question is Maat van Uitert from TheFrugalChicken.com. Maat provides us with some great advice about how to get that coop ready for the frigid temps of winter.

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Find out more about Maat at her website and social media pages:

Website: The Frugal Chicken (http://thefrugalchicken.com)

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-xqmuUvc31J52WQVIK6gjw/feed

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefrugalchicken

Twitter: https://instagram.com/thefrugalchicken/

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 I’m joined by Jill May. She and her family are homesteaders on a couple of acres in Ohio with a passion for the lifestyle and she also is an active member of our Homestead Front Porch Facebook Group.

Jill and I discuss:

Her journey and passion for the homesteading lifestyle.

Her large vegetable garden.

Her aging flock of fourteen chickens

The orchard and perennials she grows.

Future plans she has for her homestead like miniature cattle and honey bees.

Food preservation.

Homemade soap and cleaners.

Her passion to spread information about homesteading.

and Much More!

Depending on where you live winter can be a trying time on the homestead, but with a little preparation we can weather the storm a little easier and make those long winter months safer and less stressful. Here are a few things you may need to do before it gets too bad outside.

Today is Day 4 of our 30 days of homesteading Q&A on the podcast where I have reached out to some of the best bloggers and podcasters in the homesteading space to answer your questions about homesteading.

Today’s question is “How many eggs can I expect to get from a chicken and for how long?”

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Here to answer today’s question is  Maat van Uitert from TheFrugalChicken.com.

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Maat shares with us

Breed consideration for laying hens

Supplemental light for chickens

Molting

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Find out more about Maat at her website and social media pages:

Website: The Frugal Chicken (http://thefrugalchicken.com)

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-xqmuUvc31J52WQVIK6gjw/feed

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefrugalchicken

Twitter: https://instagram.com/thefrugalchicken/

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Resources:

http://thefrugalchicken.com/ChickenNutrition

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/

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 124 – June 23, 2019 – Chatting About Elderberry (Mostly) With Guest John Moody.

On today’s podcast episode I have a chat with author, speaker and homesteader John Moody about growing and using Elderberry and his new book on the subject.

Homestead Updates:

Quail, quail and more quail.

More rabbit buns on the homestead but not without complications.

Rain, rain and more rain.

It’s starting to really cause me some problems in the garden.

Should be closing on this week on a property we are buying next door.

Main Topic:

Chatting About Elderberry (Mostly) With Guest John Moody

John is a return guest who you can also hear on episode 112. He discovered more than a decade ago that his diet was killing him, with duodenal ulcers, seasonal allergies, and other health problems. So, the family began to transition to local foods and local food distribution. Eventually, he relocated his family to 35 acres of land to put his learning into practice. He is the founder of the Whole Life Buying Club, and also speaks at many local, regional, and national events on food, farming, and nutrition. Author of the Frugal Homesteader Handbook, he has three books forthcoming to help growers and gardeners, including one on weed control and one on elderberry.

Resources:

John’s Books –

The Frugal Homesteader: Living The Good Life On Less

The Elderberry Book Pre-order Form

John’s Website – https://homesteaderhandbook.com/

Homestead Recipe Of The Week:

This week’s recipe comes in from Sam at Lupine Wood Rabbitry in Alexander, NC. and she has an awesome fermented drink recipe for us called Tepache.

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/

Using the Edge Effect in the layout of your homestead can make the most of your growing space by increasing productivity and even adding an element of natural beauty to your garden.

On This Episode of The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Talk About Their Picks For The Best Organic Seed Companies To Purchase Seeds For The Garden.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 180 – January 5, 2023

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast  

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/our-picks-for-the-best-organic-seed-companies/

On today’s podcast episode I talk about living a frugal lifestyle on the homestead, what it means to be frugal and the benefits of frugality. I share several ideas for being more frugal in the kitchen, the garden, with raising livestock and general ideas for running a frugal household.

On this podcast episode, join Rachel as she interviews Dave & Amanda Allen, who have a small 7-acre homestead in Indiana. Their homestead has been a work in progress since they moved there. Listen and learn about goats, fencing, soap, and more.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 225 – October 25, 2023

Find the shownotes and links mentioned go to https://redemptionpermaculture.com/goats-fencing-soap-and-more-with-guests-dave-amanda-allen/

On This Episode of The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Discuss Garden Projects You Can Do On Days That Aren’t Gardening Friendly, Like Those Crappy Winter Days.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 174 – December 12, 2022

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast  

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/crappy-winter-day-gardening-projects/

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold Has A Conversation With Rachel Hester About Dairy Sheep On The Homestead and Her New Book, The Guide To Homestead Dairy Sheep. Rachel Talks About Why Dairy Sheep Are A Great Livestock For The Homestead, The Advantages and Challenges, and More.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 222 – October 4, 2023

Continue Reading

On today’s podcast I’m joined by Robin Follette from alifeinthewild.com. Robin and I talk about her 45 acre homestead in Maine and the things she is doing to live a self-sufficient life.

We discuss:

What lead her into a homesteading lifestyle

Homestead livestock

Gardening in a northern climate

Knowing when it’s time to cut back on what you’re doing

Hunting

Fishing

Animal processing

Food preparation…and a bunch of other things

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Resources and things mentioned in this episode:

Mother Earth News Online Summit

Homestead Front Porch Facebook Group

Eliot Coleman’s resources can be found at his website at FourSeasonFarm.com

Robin’s Website – alifeinthewild.com

Information about Robin’s radio program, On The Fire 

Today is Day 12 of our 30 days of homesteading Q&A on the podcast where I have reached out to some of the best bloggers and podcasters in the homesteading space to answer your questions about homesteading.

Today’s question is “We do a lot of camping and even sit around a campfire quite a bit when we are home and we would like to get away from eating hotdogs all the time. Do you have any ideas on healthier meals we could be preparing over a campfire?”

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Answering today’s question is Tom and Kris Ballard from TomandKrisCamping.com and the Tom and Kris Camping Podcast.

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Find out more about Tom and Kris through their website and social media:

Website: http://tomandkriscamping.com/

Podcast: Tom and Kris Camping Podcast

Facebook: http://facebook.com/tomandkrisgocamping

Do you have dreams of being a homesteader but your spouse doesn’t? On today’s podcast episode I want to give some of my thoughts on homesteading even if your spouse isn’t on board with the whole self-sufficiency thing.

Homestead Updates:

Lots of seed collecting going on. Next weekend is rabbit processing day (postponed a week).Major website additions going on (further updates later).Best beet harvest ever.

Homesteading Relevant News:

Small Farm, Real Profit – https://www.motherearthnews.com/homesteading-and-livestock/sustainable-farming/small-urban-farm-zm0z17onzmar

Homesteading on display at Doors Open Grimsby – https://www.niagarathisweek.com/community-story/7561715-homesteading-on-display-at-doors-open-grimsby/

Hangin’ Out on the Homestead Front Porch:

Question in the Front Porch for this week’s podcast episode: What would you say is your greatest success on your homestead?

Main Topic Of Discussion:

Homesteading When Your Spouse Isn’t On Board

Why your spouse isn’t on board

Don’t just make assumptions, ask them.

Address the issues that might get them on board

Money

Doesn’t like animals

Doesn’t like gardening

Afraid people will think they are crazy

Doesn’t want to be overworked

Doesn’t want to give up life’s comforts.

Whatever it is talk with them and compromise.

Start Slow

Don’t bring in an excavator and do major Earthworks for your new permaculture food forest.

Don’t take on more than you yourself can handle.

Do what you can

But don’t burn yourself out!

Involve them when you can

If there is any part of it they particularly enjoy then make sure they are involved.

Let them enjoy the changes and successes

Don’t rub it in their face, just let them notice.

Love them no matter what!

This is the person you chose to love for better or worse and while you should be able to pursue your dreams you should also be there for them to pursue theirs.

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Share 8 Valuable Ways To Make Use Of The Fallen Leaves On The Homestead.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 167 – November 15, 2022

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/8-ways-to-make-use-of-fallen-leaves

Join Rachel as she interviews Jason White, host of the Plans and Provisions Podcast, about his family’s journey into homesteading, about their homestead, and future plans.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 183 – January 16, 2023

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast  

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/homesteading-plans-and-provisions-with-guest-jason-white/

On today’s podcast episode I have a conversation with Steve Dinicol, a homesteader on 133 acres in British Columbia Canada. Steve and his wife work full time jobs and still manage to operate and expand their homestead although expand too quickly at times as Steve will confess.

Steve and I discuss:

What led him down the homesteading path

Raising cattle

Raising sheep

Raising chickens for eggs and meat

Animal processing

Deer hunting

Gardening in a northern climate

Foraging for mushrooms

His newly planted fruit tree orchard and berry bushes

Perennial vegetables

Future plans for their homestead like bees, goats, rabbits, and chicken expansion

Advice for beginner homesteaders

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Resources and Links from today’s episode:

Anyone Can Build a Tub-Style Mechanical Chicken Plucker – Paperback by Herrick Kimball

Article I mentioned – WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE TO KILL A CHICKEN?

On This Episode of The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold Has A Conversation With Luke Weinhagen, Author Of The Book “The Primal Primer,” About Using Traditional Knowledge To Face The Real World.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 175 – December 15, 2022

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast  

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/learning-primal-survival-skills-for-real-world-application-with-guest-luke-weinhagen/

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 93 – June 20, 2018 – Laying Down A Strong Foundation For A New Homestead.

On today's podcast i'm joined by Mike Hatfield of Flyway Family Farm in southern Illinois. Mike along with his wife and young daughter have a 9 1/2 acre homestead where they do a little bit of everything but their main crop is mushrooms. Mike shares with us a little bit about how he and his wife got into homesteading and how they eventually ended up focusing on mushrooms as their cash crop.

Mike and I discuss a variety of topics like.

The process of growing mushrooms indoors and outdoors.

The business of selling mushrooms at Farmers Markets and through a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture).

The medicinal benefits of mushrooms.

The possible environmental benefits of growing mushrooms.

How to get started growing mushrooms on your homestead.

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Links:

www.ted.com/talks/paul_stamets_on_6_ways_mushrooms_can_save_the_world

Where to get started growing mushrooms on your homestead.

Fungi Perfecti Field and Forest Products

"Mushrooms are miniature pharmaceutical factories, and of the thousands of mushroom species in nature, our ancestors and modern scientists have identified several dozen that have a unique combination of talents that improve our health." - Paul Stamets

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 123 – May 29, 2019 – Spring 2019 State Of The Homestead

On this podcast episode I chat all about the progress and plans as well as the successes and failures at our little Small Town Homestead. I will also go beyond the homestead and talk about the Modern Homesteading Podcast and the Homestead Front Porch Facebook Group and the Membership Community.

The Garden:

Soil preparation has gone well.

What I have planted (or will be planting) this year.

A walk around the property at each bed (or future bed).

Trees and Berries.

Too much rain has caused me some issues.

Way behind on getting some trellises built and some beds built and planted.

Compost Production:

Kitchen compost

Larger compost system,

New lawn mower with bagger is beneficial.

Vermicompost

Comfrey

Livestock:

Rabbit (breeding production, issues I’ve had, expansion)

Quail (incubation, brooders, expansion)

Fish (tilapia update)

Kitchen:

Not much left in the pantry as far as canned goods from last year. Some beans, beats, and pickles.

Update on the Big Berkey water filtration system.

My review and personal experience with the Carey Electric Pressure Canner.

Always improving our cooking from scratch knowledge and skills

Continuing to learn more and practice with herbal remedies.

Continuing to make many of our household cleaners.

Overall Progress Toward Self Sufficiency, Sustainability, Freedom and A Healthier Lifestyle

2 steps forward 1 step back

Always moving a little closer to being debt free.

Switching to electric cordless or manually operated.

Overall health seems good.

Updated 1 vehicle

State of The Podcast:

Surpassed One Million downloads a few weeks ago as best as I can tell.

Averaging about 2000 more listeners a week than last year, which means we are growing.

I will continue to do interviews, add and drop segments as I see fit and do occasional solo shows that cover topics and information like this.

Having a lot more fun with it this year!

Homesteaders look for independence and self sufficiency in every area of life so it only makes sense that when it comes to making an income they would look at every possible option. Modern homesteaders don’t only have to look at the conventional ways of making money such as farmer’s markets, and csa’s but can take advantage of some of the unconventional money making options.

Unconventional ways to make money as a homesteader would be those options that are out of the ordinary, most of which were not available just a couple decades ago. These ways are real options which take advantage of technology and perhaps special skills someone may have, but mostly anyone willing to learn and work hard can earn money in some of these ways.

Here are a few of the unconventional ways someone can make money as a homesteader.

On today’s podcast episode I will be giving my thoughts on some questions from you, the listeners. I will be answering questions today on getting started raising pigs on a small scale, setting up raised bed gardens with a focus on the soil and what makes a person a homesteader.

Today’s Questions:

Ellie asks – I really want to start raising pigs. Only one or two at a time. I just need some advice on what I need to get started, some tips on raising them to be healthy, and maybe some troubleshooting on any obstacles I might find in my way. Also what breed to look for being a first timer and where to get them.

Scott asks – I want to try to do a lot more planting in raised bed planters next year. I would love to hear what you have to say about getting off to a good start. What type of soil mixture / amendments to start off with? Depth of soil? Maintenance? Irrigation / drainage?

All New Square Foot Gardening by Mel Bartholomew

The Dirt Doctor, Howard Garrett on Raised Bed Preparation

Jamie asks – A couple episodes ago you gave a definition of  modern homesteading that made a lot of sense to me, could you say a little more about what makes a person a homesteader? I don’t have a lot of land, I grow a garden and do some food preservation but I’m not sure I would call myself a homesteader.

On today’s episode I have a conversation with Troy McClung. Troy homesteads/farms 100 acres in Southern West Virginia and shares about his journey at RedToolHouse.com.

Troy and I discuss:

How he got started homesteading

Livestock on his homestead

Raising pigs for profit

Chickens, egg layers and meat birds

Rotational grazing

General preparedness

Good stewardship of the land

Family Values

Inspiring and helping others on a path to self-sufficiency

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Resources and Links from this episode:

Troy’s Website: http://redtoolhouse.com

Youtube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYznkvWJsClVckj0Xu85_9g

Joel Salatin’s Website: http://www.polyfacefarms.com/

Video Link to Hoop House Built from Cattle Panels I Mentioned:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DKlXs8iov0

My Clothing Recommendation: http://www.duluthtrading.com/

Link to Purchase Comfrey I Mentioned:  http://marshcreekfarmstead.blogspot.com/

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 this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, I Have A Discussion With Jess Robison of Acton Food Forest About Her Journey Into Homesteading and Permaculture As Well As Small Scale Food Forests.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 164 – November 4, 2022

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - Patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/small-scale-permaculture-food-forests-with-guest-jess-robison/

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 Episode of The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Talk About Their Picks For Some Of The Best Places To Get Trees, Bushes, Vines, and Canes For Your Homestead.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 182 – January 12, 2023

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast  

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/best-places-to-get-trees-bushes-vines-and-canes-for-your-homestead/

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold has a conversation with Ryan Steva, a homesteading consultant, about considering tradeoffs in homestead evaluation and design.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 187 – February 1, 2023

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and other exclusive rewards - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast  

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/considering-tradeoffs-in-homestead-evaluation-and-design-with-guest-ryan-steva/

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel talk about how to make a homestead more drought resilient.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 149 – August 4th, 2022 – Building A Drought Resilient Homestead.

Listen To The Podcast

We discuss what has been happening on our individual homesteads and the recent drought that has been affecting us. We dive into several methods that can make a homestead more drought resistant.

Topics of Discussion

• Types of mulch and how it works to retain moisture and build soil.
• Using shade and creating microclimates to reduce water use and increase retention.
• We discuss our current rainwater collection and how we might be able to do better.
• Watering Systems and Drip Irrigation for better use of the rainwater we collect and wasting less water.
• Swales for retaining and using water more efficiently throughout a property.
• Improving soil with organic matter and biochar
• Intensive planting and planting in cover crops to shade the soil and retain water.

Read More at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/building-a-drought-resilient-homestead/

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Have A Further Discussion About Closed Loop Systems For The Homestead By Considering The Idea Of Expanding To A Network Of Other Homesteaders In A Local Community.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 165 – November 8, 2022

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/expanding-closed-loop-systems-into-a-network-of-local-community

In this podcast episode I decided to step away from the usual format and do something fun by combining two of my passions, homesteading and good movies. I discuss 27 movies I believe offer a little homesteading inspiration to keep you ever pressing forward in your journey.

Today is Day 6 of our 30 days of homesteading Q&A on the podcast where I have reached out to some of the best bloggers and podcasters in the homesteading space to answer your questions about homesteading.

Today’s question is “I want to start homesteading, how much property do I need to start out?”

.

Answering the question today is Katie Thies from halfahomestead.wordpress.com

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Katie discusses methods of homesteading without much land, such as:

Farmers Markets

Community Gardens

Guerrilla Gardening

Practicing indoor homesteading

Raised Bed Gardens

Hydroponics

Community Supported Agriculture

.

Resources mentioned in the podcast:

http://www.guerrillagardening.org/

http://www.instructables.com/id/Small-Indoor-hydroponics-Project-Real-Easy/?ALLSTEPS

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 125 – September 3, 2019 - Increasing Soil Fertility Through Permaculture Practices.

In this episode I discuss a few ways to help soil fertility in ways normally exercised in permaculture practices. These are ways that are simulated in nature to create balanced, rich and living soil.

Using Plants To Increase Soil Fertility

Polycultures and Guilds

Nitrogen fixing plants

Fast decaying root systems

Using  Chop and Drop To Increase Soil Fertility

Puts nutrients on topsoil

Creates an environment for worms and beneficial insects

Creates an environment for a thriving microbiology

Using Livestock To Increase Soil Fertility

Rotational grazing

Using Swales and Ponds To Collect Nutrients

Using Hugelkultur To Create A Nutrient Dense Area

Increases microbiology through organic material decay and moisture retention.

Using Biochar

By making biochar from brush and other hard to compost organic material, you can improve soil — it enhances nutrient availability and also enables soil to retain nutrients longer.

What’s biochar? Basically, it’s organic matter that is burned slowly, with a restricted flow of oxygen, and then the fire is stopped when the material reaches the charcoal stage. Unlike tiny tidbits of ash, coarse lumps of charcoal are full of crevices and holes, which help them serve as life rafts to soil microorganisms. The carbon compounds in charcoal form loose chemical bonds with soluble plant nutrients so they are not as readily washed away by rain and irrigation. Biochar alone added to poor soil has little benefit to plants, but when used in combination with compost and organic fertilizers, it can dramatically improve plant growth while helping retain nutrients in the soil.

Using Leaf Mold

Leaf mold is the result of letting leaves sit and decompose over time. It is dark brown to black, has a pleasant earthy aroma and a crumbly texture, much like compost. In fact, leaf mold is just that: composted leaves. Instead of adding a bunch of organic matter to a pile, you just use leaves.

Leaf mold is essentially a soil conditioner. It increases the water retention of soils. According to some university studies, the addition of leaf mold increased water retention in soils by over 50%. Leaf mold also improves soil structure and provides a fantastic habitat for soil life, including earthworms and beneficial bacteria.

Using Fungus

For feeding fungi, the ideal wood chips should be obtained from freshly cut smaller branches with the leaves still on them. That’s where the most nutrients reside and the good fungi love that.

Beneficial fungi are certain species of fungi that protect our plants from disease by:

Out-competing disease organisms

Creating a healthy soil biology

Offering direct protection to our plants by producing anti-pathogens

Providing nutrients and water directly to the plants for better plant health

Compost Tea

Comfrey

Manure

Vermicompost

Worm Castings

On this podcast episode, Harold talks with Bevin Cohen about homestead-level seed and nut oil production, how it's done, and the many beneficial uses of the oil and the byproducts of the process.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 226 – November 1, 2023

Find the shownotes and links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/small-scale-seed-and-nut-oil-production-with-guest-bevin-cohen/

On Today’s Podcast Episode Harold and Rachel Have A Chat Over Coffee About Their Gardens, What’s New On The Homestead, What They’ve Been Up To, and What’s Coming Up.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 212 – July 17, 2023

Find the Shownotes for this episode at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/coffee-chat-about-our-homesteads-and-what-weve-been-up-to/

Learn More About Our Membership at https://modernhomesteadingmembership.com

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel talk about responsible common sense preparedness that we should all be doing, and that will help you prepare for potential disasters and emergencies.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 218 – September 6, 2023

Find the shownotes and all the links mentioned for this episode at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/homesteading-and-responsible-preparedness/

Learn More About Our Membership Club at https://modernhomesteadingmembership.com

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 Episode of The Modern Homesteading Podcast Harold Has A Conversation With Paul Circle and Brooke Schafer, Two Of The Administrators Of The Homesteaders Of Indiana Group.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 171 – December 1, 2022

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast  

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/connecting-homesteaders-and-building-skills-with-homesteaders-of-indiana/

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 109 – December 11, 2018 – Emergency Backup Power Options.

On this podcast episode I discuss some possible options to have in place just in case you lose power on your homestead for an extended period of time.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 110 – December 26, 2018 – Seed Catalogs You Should Have On Your Coffee Table.

How can you get and stay excited about your springtime garden when you are struggling through the long winter months. One way I have found is by surrounding myself with seed catalogs to keep the dream alive. Here are a few you should probably have sitting around.

Podcast Shownotes at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/food-preservation-methods-past-and-present/

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Have A Conversation About A Variety of Food Preservation Methods From The Past and Modern Methods.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 150 – August 10, 2022 – Food Preservation Methods (Past and Present).

Topic of Discussion

Food Preservation Methods (Past and Present)

• Minimal Processing – Root Cellars, Cool Storage, Room Temperature Storage, and in-ground storage.
• Drying/Dehydrating/smoking
• Canning – Water Bath Canning, Steam Canning, Pressure Canning, and Retort canning,
• Freezing.
• Freeze Drying.
• Fermentation.
• Preserving in Salt and Sugar.
• Immersion in alcohol. (Liqueurs)
• Preserving in Fat (larding)

Listener Questions and Feedback:

Who’s planting (or planted) what for their fall garden?

https://www.facebook.com/groups/HomesteadFrontPorch/posts/5214736995246749/

Resources Mentioned On This Podcast Episode

(some may be affiliate links)

• Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving – https://amzn.to/3zGlIA7
• Excalibur Food Dehydrator – https://amzn.to/3bHDhHZ
• Presto 23-Quart Pressure Canner and Cooker – https://amzn.to/3p1B3pJ
• National Centers for Home Canning – https://nchfp.uga.edu/
• MSU Food Preservation Classes and Information – https://www.canr.msu.edu/food_preservation/programs
• Recipe for dried candied citrus peels (amazing) – https://www.marthastewart.com/313211/candied-citrus-peels
• Root Cellaring: Natural Cold Storage of Fruits & Vegetables by Mike Bubel – https://amzn.to/3JPsx6T
• My Ultimate EXCALIBUR Food Dehydrator Recipe Book – https://amzn.to/3dbQqt6
• Charcuterie: The Craft of Salting, Smoking, and Curing by Michael Ruhlman – https://amzn.to/3bPN2nC
• Townsend’s Amazon Page – https://amzn.to/3SG0z1u
• Townsends – YouTube
• Potted Meat Townsends – https://www.youtube.com/user/jastownsendandson/search?query=potted%20meat

Today is Day 18 of our 30 days of homesteading Q&A on the podcast where I have reached out to some of the best bloggers and podcasters in the homesteading space to answer your questions about homesteading.

Today’s question is “Why is it not safe to water bath can my vegetables? I was told if they went bad I would be able to tell. Is this true or do I need to pressure can?”

Back to answer today’s question is Jo Rellime from Homestead Chronicles.

Resources Mentioned by Jo:

Story on the botulism outbreak in Lancaster, Ohio in the spring of 2015.  Please read all the way to the end as it provides confirmation that the science we are discussing is accurate: http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2015/04/23/ohio-botulism-outbreak/26251445/

USDA’s National Center for Home For Preservation at http://nchfp.uga.edu/publications/publications_usda.html

Ball’s Website under Recipes at http://www.freshpreserving.com/recipes

Ball Blue Book Guide To Preserving, 37Th Edition (affiliate link) at http://amzn.to/1N2wgOa

When in doubt, you can always check with Ball’s Ask the Expert forum athttp://www.freshpreserving.com/community/qna

Home Canning – How to Avoid Botulism” from HealthLink BC at http://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthfiles/hfile22.stm

Safe Canning By the Book on Debbie’s Back Porch (facebook group for trusted canning advice, tips, and tested recipes links) at https://www.facebook.com/groups/SafeCanningByTheBook

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 99 – July 19, 2018 – What To Do First To Turn A New Home Into A Homestead

In this podcast episode I answer a question from a listener about what I would suggest they do first at their soon to be new home to turn it into a functioning homestead.

On today’s podcast episode I’m joined by Ariel Gunn. Ariel is an urban homesteader in Texas working toward a more self sufficient lifestyle right where she is.

We discuss:

Why she started homesteading in the suburbs

Beekeeping with neighbors close by

Her small flock of chickens

Growing food in her vegetable garden

Growing culinary and medicinal herbs

Her community herb garden

Water catchment and her other future plans

.

Resources and links from this episode:

Ariel’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbanyogifarmer/

“If you think you can do a thing or think you can’t do a thing, you’re right.” – Henry Ford

Getting the most from your garden depends on a lot of things including the right climate conditions for each specific plant. On today’s podcast episode I discuss how to locate or create microclimates for your garden and how best to use those microclimates.

Homestead Updates:

Why I haven’t been podcasting and responding to social media and emails much lately.

Planting fall crops

This year’s tomato crop

Homesteading Relevant News:

What, Exactly, Is Permaculture?

Permaculture: Can a system of sustainable farming catch on locally?

Hangin’ Out on the Homestead Front Porch

A new segment where I share a few things from the Homestead Front Porch Facebook group including a question I ask group members and some of their answers.

Q & A from the group:

What is something you know about homesteading now that you wish you had known when you started?

Main Topic Of Discussion:

Creating and Utilizing Microclimates

What is a microclimate?

Simply put it is the climate of a very small or restricted area, especially when this differs from the climate of the surrounding area. Microclimates can allow the growing of plants in an area that normally would not grow in the hardiness zone or the season of the area.

Microclimates are created and vary due to soil, water, weather, sun, and warmth. Variances in these areas can be caused by many reasons including garden direction, exposure to wind, slopes, and berms, structures and overhangs, the topography of the land, and soil drainage along with many other factors.

Locating microclimates on your property.

University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources has a great Garden Site Microclimate Evaluation Form that can be downloaded or printed off to help locate microclimates on your homestead.

Creating microclimates.

To create a microclimate you simply need to mimic what causes microclimates naturally. This can be done by adding things like trees, boulders, ponds, and berms. I discuss some of the ways I have done this on my homestead on the podcast.

Utilizing microclimates.

Identify what plants you want to grow and what those plants like then find or create the microclimate that best fits that plant. As an example of what gardening this way can do, creating microclimates has enabled me to grow leaf lettuce throughout the summer without it bolting too quickly.

Today’s Recommendations:

Starfrit Salad Spinner, 5-quart capacity

Book- The Resilient Farm and Homestead: An Innovative Permaculture and Whole Systems Design Approach

On today’s podcast I’m joined by Sherry Willis from Half-Pint Homestead to talk about keeping livestock on an urban homestead and the new eCourse she has put together to help urban farmers take the livestock leap.

We discuss:

Sherry’s homesteading journey and experience

Some of the challenges and rewards of keeping urban livestock

The details of Sherry’s new eCourse

Podcast Shownotes at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/self-reliance-or-homesteading-community-the-answer-is-yes/

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Have A Conversation About Self-Reliance and Homesteading Community, How They Work Together and How to Find and Be Involved In Community.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 151 – August 17, 2022 – Self-Reliance or Homesteading Community? The Answer Is Yes.

Topics of Discussion

• When it comes to Self-Reliance and Community does one exclude the other?
• Building and Being Involved With Local CommunitySkill Building Classes
  Local Meetups
  Farmers Market
  Community Gardens
  Quilting/sewing/fiber craft clubs
  Wildcrafting
  
• Community Through EventsHomesteaders of (State) Meetups
  Homesteaders of America
  Historical Societies/Reenacting (sp?)
  
• Online CommunitiesForums
  Youtube
  Facebook Groups
  Other Social Media platforms
  
• If you can’t find a community you can make one!

Listener Questions and Feedback:

We could share the results of the Poll you put in the group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/HomesteadFrontPorch/posts/5231226503597798/

Local Resources:

• Find your county's local cooperative extension to find classes - https://gardenologist.org/cooperative-extension-directory-for-all-50-states-dc-and-puerto-rico/
• Find local groups through Meetup.com - https://www.meetup.com/

Online Community Resources:

• Abundance Plus Community - https://abundancepluscommunity.com/
• Permies.com - https://permies.com/

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 85 – May 25, 2018 – Protecting Plants In The Heat of Summer.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 96 – July 9, 2018 – A Homesteading Journey That Went Down Many Paths: An Interview With Michele Nutter.

On this podcast episode I have a conversation with homesteader and Author Michele Nutter. Michele started homesteading for frugal living reasons but soon started down many other paths such as pursuing healthy eating of ethically raised meats, herbal remedies and even a preparedness lifestyle as well as many other paths.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 136 – March 2, 2020 – A Small Farm In The Making With Guest Jillae Dalmolin.

On this podcast episode, I chat with Jillae Dalmolin from Wanderin’ Barefoot Farm.

We Discuss:

• Jillae's journey into homesteading.
  
• Growing and raising nutritious food for better health.
  
• Seed Starting and selling plants.
  
• The livestock they are raising on their farm.
  
• Predator pressure.
  
• Transitioning from homesteading for themselves to farming for the community.
  
• Educating others on homesteading skills.
  
• Nutritious food and the medical community.
  
• Future homesteading plans.
  

Links:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderinbarefootfarm/
  
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderinbarefootfarm/
  
• Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/Wanderinbarefoot

On today’s podcast episode, Harold and Rachel discuss planning a survival garden, from things to consider to what crops are best to grow. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 233 – January 24, 2024 Find the shownotes and the links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/planning-a-survival-garden/

On today’s podcast I discuss 4 “invasive weeds” I allow to grow in my garden and why.

I also give a rundown on what’s new and happening on the homestead and talk a little about why there hasn’t been a podcast for a few months.

I share a little bit about my fairly large surprise volunteer garden I was blessed with this year.

My newest edition to the planned garden.

This year’s garden failure which was a mistake on my part.

I talk about dandelion, plantain, lamb’s quarters and purslane and what makes each one of the weeds worth having around.

Join Rachel on this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast as she interviews Rob Kaiser of York Meadow Farm about how his family started their farm businesses.  Listen as Rob goes into detail on getting a licensed kitchen up and running, taking products to market, and getting food in local stores. 

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 230 – December 6, 2023

Find the show notes and links of things discussed at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/growing-and-operating-a-farm-business-with-guest-rob-kaiser/

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/

Join Rachel as she interviews Kelly The Kitchen Kop and Discusses Healthy Eating On The Homestead Through Wise Food Choices and Home Cooking.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 178 – December 29, 2022

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - https://www.patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast  

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/homestead-healthy-eating-with-guest-kelly-the-kitchen-kop/

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Discuss Closed Loop Systems For The Homestead And How They Can Increase Self Sufficiency.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 163 – November 1, 2022

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - Patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

For Show Notes and Links To Things We Talk About Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/developing-closed-loop-systems-for-greater-self-sufficiency

On today’s podcast episode I discuss the many uses of having comfrey on the homestead and why EVERY homesteader should be growing it, what variety to grow and where to get it.

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/

Today is Day 16 of our 30 days of homesteading Q&A on the podcast where I have reached out to some of the best bloggers and podcasters in the homesteading space to answer your questions about homesteading.

Today’s question is “I’m going to set up some indoor grow beds in my basement for this winter and would like some advice on what wattage of lights I need to grow my vegetables?”

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I am answering today’s question and will be discussing what to look for in a lightbulb. This is something I learned the hard way through trial and error until I finally did my research to find out exactly what I needed to know.

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In this episode I will help you to understand:

Lumens

Kelvin

Type of lights

Placement of lights

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 101 – August 2, 2018 – Homesteading On A Temporary Property.

Do you want to start homesteading someday but don’t live on your “forever homestead” and don’t plan on staying at your current location too long? What can you do right now, right where you are even if it’s a temporary situation? On this podcast episode I tackle those questions.

Find the Shownotes at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/a-beginners-guide-to-growing-garlic-aka-stinking-rose-on-the-homestead/ 

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Have A Conversation All About Growing Garlic. The Reasons You Should Grow It, How and When To Plant It, Companion Planting, and Harvesting Garlic.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 155 – September 14, 2022

Topics of Discussion

About Garlic

Reasons To Grow Garlic

• Easy To Grow
• Easy To Store
• Has Garden Benefits
• Culinary Benefits
• Health Benefits
  

Which Garlic Should You Grow

• Softneck
• Hardneck
• Elephant Garlic
  

Growing Garlic

• Growing Zones
• Soil and Sun Requirements
• Good and Bad Companions For Garlic
• Pest and disease
  

Planting Garlic

• Preparing The Soil
• Planting The Cloves
• Growing Garlic From Seed
• Caring For Garlic
  

When To Plant Garlic

When and How To Harvest Garlic

• Scapes
• Bulbs
  

Curing Garlic

Links:

(some links may be affiliate links)

Oxford Academic Journal of Nutrition – Historical Perspective on the Use of Garlic – https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/131/3/951S/4687053

USDA Hardiness Zones – https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/Native_Plant_Materials/Native_Gardening/hardinesszones.shtml

LEARN TO PROPERLY COLLECT AND GROW TRUE GARLIC SEED – http://garlicseed.blogspot.com/p/growing-garlic-from-true-seed.html

4-Tine Spading Digging Fork – https://amzn.to/3cDsdvU

Growing Garlic In Your Homestead Garden – https://redemptionpermaculture.com/growing-garlic-in-a-permaculture-garden/

Fermented Garlic Recipe – https://www.thespruceeats.com/lacto-fermented-garlic-recipe-1327724

Garlic Confit – https://cravingcalifornia.com/oven-roasted-garlic-confit/#recipe

Roasted Garlic infused oil – https://www.saveur.com/roasted-garlic-and-roasted-garlic-oil-recipes/

Join Rachel as she interviews Krista Green of Zone 3 Vegetable Gardening. Krista offers many great tips for season extension, seed starting, transplanting, and more for a head start to a productive garden.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 238 – March 27, 2024

For Shownotes and Links Mentioned Go To - https://redemptionpermaculture.com/gardening-in-cold-climates-with-guest-krista-green

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 Today’s Podcast Episode Harold and Rachel Discuss Succession Planting, What It Is, The Benefits and Challenges Of It, And How To Implement Succession Planting Into Your Garden.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 211 – July 10, 2023

Find the show notes and all the links mentioned and more at: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/cultivating-a-continuous-garden-through-succession-planting/

On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Have A Conversation All About Why and How To Save and Store Seeds From Your Garden.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 157 – September 28, 2022

Join us on Patreon for commercial-free episodes, bonus episodes, and more - Patreon.com/ModernHomesteadingPodcast

Find the show notes and all the links mentioned at https://redemptionpermaculture.com/why-and-how-to-save-and-store-seeds-from-your-garden/

Have you ever thought about homesteading with a tiny house but don’t know where to begin? Is it even something that’s right for you? Is homesteading while living in a tiny house even practical?

On today’s podcast episode I have a conversation with Ryan Mitchell from TheTinyLife.com and he answers questions like these and others.

The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 104 – August 24, 2018 – Tiny House Homesteading.

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/