Homesteaders of America

View Details

As homesteaders, we understand the importance of sourcing our food well and cooking from scratch. When it comes to baking, making the switch to freshly-milled whole grains in your home can take your family’s nourishment to the next level. If you’ve ever had questions about milling grains at home – how whole grain flour differs from white flour, how to store grains, what kind of mill you need – this episode is for you! Gary of NutriMill is sharing his expertise in grains, mills, mixers, health benefits, and more. Join us for this incredibly practical and educational conversation.

In this episode, we cover:

How NutriMill became the largest seller of grain mills in the world
The differences between NutriMill’s high volume mill and their more versatile mill
How baking with freshly-milled whole grains differs from all-purpose flour
Exploring the nutritional benefits of whole grains
How learning to mill whole grains helps you prepare for the future
Tips on preparing wheat for long-term storage
How consuming whole grains can increase your overall health and help you lose weight
A word of hope for the future of our nation

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Check out the products Gary mentioned on the NutriMill website

CONNECT

View Details

We talk a lot on this podcast about raising our own food, but today we are chatting all about preparing and serving the food we have worked so hard to produce! Stacy Lyn Harris is the perfect person to join us for this conversation because she has been using produce from her garden and meat from her husband’s hunting trips to prepare delicious meals for her large southern family for decades. We are not only diving into the practicals of creating amazing meals, but we are also digging into the heart of hospitality. Feeding good food to our families and friends is a beautiful way to put our love into action!

In this episode, we cover:

Diving into the heart behind Stacy’s cookbooks
What is hospitality and why does it matter?
A look at hospitality when you are in the trenches of early motherhood
Practicing hospitality in your marriage and family

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Check out Stacy Lyn’s cookbooks

CONNECT

View Details

You are going to love hearing the Fuhrmanns inspiring homestead story in this episode! They share about the health scare that led them to the homesteading life, how their homestead has become a blessing to their community, what it’s like to raise and homeschool nine children, and what has led their children to stay involved in the family business as they have become adults. The Fuhrmann family’s hearts for the Lord, for true health, for their family, and for community will encourage you to cast an intentional vision for your own family and homestead.

In this episode, we cover:

How Jack and Kim’s homesteading story began with time spent overseas
The evolution of the Fuhrmanns’ family homestead into a ministry hub in their community
The unique beauty of raising kids on a homestead
How a family health crisis led Jack and Kim to pursue natural healing through food
The practicals of managing a large homeschooling family on a homestead
Overcoming academic challenges and watching our children flourish into adulthood
How establishing a strong vision turns your homestead into a haven for family and community

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

ABOUT JACK & KIM

After serving as overseas missionaries in Chad, Africa God toughened Jack and Kim up in preparation for a calling to homesteading life. They have owned and operated Our Father's Farm in Gretna, VA providing southside VA with grass-fed, A2A2 dairy products through herd shares, pastured poultry, and grass-fed beef, as well as training in natural health. The farm has grown with the family and is more diverse every year. The Fuhrmanns are passionate about God, His Word, the family, and others. They love to encourage, educate and support others on their journey to whole health wellness. They are committed to raising the most nutrient-dense foods possible while stewarding as a family their land for God's glory. They love teaching others why this choice is worth the effort and sacrifice.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

HOA podcast episode with Joshua Fuhrmann

Journey Back to Health by Kim Fuhrmann

CONNECT

View Details

On a recent episode of the podcast, we talked about how the homesteading lifestyle is a call back to home-centered living: homesteading, homemaking, home cooking, home business, homeschooling, etc. Today’s conversation ventures off from farm and homestead topics and dives into an equally important aspect of homestead life: raising our kids. This chat with Durenda, author and homeschooling mother of eight children (five sons), takes us through the importance of raising our boys into strong men who will lead homes and communities. When the world teaches us to devalue the role of men in our homes and in society, we hope this episode encourages you to drown out the noise and embrace who your sons are made to be.

In this episode, we cover:

Recognizing and supporting the God-given nature of boys
Taking a counter-cultural stance in raising our boys to be strong men
The value of seeking a father’s input in raising sons
Two different approaches to discipline
Why it is so important to take a step back and pause before disciplining
How even our imperfect efforts make a profound impact
Tailoring your homeschooling approach to your son’s learning style
Embracing the challenges and rewards of the teen years
Considerations for parenting a son with special needs
An exhortation to steward our boys into strong, godly men

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

ABOUT DURENDA

Durenda Wilson has been married to Darryl for thirty-four years. They have eight kids and ten grandkids and have been homeschooling for thirty years. She is a trusted voice and resource at homeschool conventions and on The Durenda Wilson Podcast.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Raising Boys to Men: A Simple, Mercifully Short Book on Raising and Homeschooling Boys by Durenda Wilson

CONNECT

Durenda Wilson | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Podcast

View Details

I hear from many homesteading families who have the dream of sustaining their families by making an income right from their homesteads. This is the American dream, right? In today’s episode, Emilie is sharing with us the story of how she and her family did just that. What began as a quest to overcome health issues in her own family became a thriving skincare business that helps families all across the globe. Join us for this inspiring conversation all about entrepreneurship, homesteading, skincare, health, and more!

In this episode, we cover:

What inspired Emilie to create skincare products that are actually beneficial to the skin
How the homesteading lifestyle led Emilie to start her business
A few key factors in the success of Toups and Co
Day in the life of a homesteading, homeschooling, business owning wife and mother
How a business owner’s role changes as the business grows
What it looked like for Emilie’s husband to leave his full-time job to work for the family business
How to organically market your business when you don’t have a marketing budget
Making decisions about selling online, opening a storefront, expanding your space
How Emilie maintains the quality of her products by carefully sourcing ingredients
Why it matters what we put on our skin and the importance of educating those around us

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

ABOUT EMILIE

Emilie Toups is the founder of Toups and Co Organics, a company dedicated to clean and natural skin care and makeup. She began Toups and Co right in her own kitchen with a passion for products with recognizable ingredients. Emilie also has a passion for teaching holistic skin care practices and other women how to be entrepreneurs and own their own businesses.

Emilie lives on a small farm in south Alabama with her husband and five children. She enjoys gardening, cooking nourishing food and baking sourdough bread.

CONNECT

Emilie Toups of Toups and Co Organics | Website | Instagram | Instagram | Facebook

View Details

Mike’s journey into farming and conservation may not be what you expect, but he is a wealth of wisdom on this complex yet important topic of pasture management. While Mike manages a thousand-acre cattle farm, he breaks down the principles of pasture health to apply to the everyday homesteader. We talk about first identifying where the health of your pastures stands, how to take steps toward improvement, managing multiple species on the same acreage, and more. For anyone looking to cultivate thriving pastures on your homestead, you will find this conversation with Mike so valuable!

In this episode, we cover:

Mike’s unique journey into farming
How Kinloch Farms emphasizes conservation in their beef cattle operation
First steps to take if you want to improve your soil health
How to initiate new growth in your pasture
What rotational grazing can look like on a small scale homestead
Considerations for rotational grazing with multiple species
Navigating mineral supplementation options for your ruminants

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Sea-90 Ocean Minerals

Use code MPETERSON to get 10% off Baja Gold salt https://bajagoldsaltco.com/?rfsn=7626437.f718fe

Order from the Kinloch Farms shop!

CONNECT

Mike Peterson of Kinloch Farms | Website | Instagram | Facebook

View Details

If you are paying attention to current events, you know how important it is to prepare your home and family for an uncertain future. In this episode, John shares why it is also equally important to protect what you have prepared. We dive into why and how to prepare, where faith meets preparation, choosing your community wisely, and more. If you are feeling compelled to ready your family for the coming times, let this conversation inspire and guide you as you take your next steps.

In this episode, we cover:

How John’s desire for freedom brought him to homesteading
How John is helping men access both the lion and the lamb mentality
Why it is important to secure your homestead for the future
What signs to look for as the world begins to experience bad times
Is preparing for hard times rooted in a lack of faith?
Answering the most common question John gets about securing your home
The role of building community in light of protecting your homestead
Where to start if you want to learn from The Warrior Poet Society

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

The Warrior Poet Way by John Lovell

Watch Warrior Poet Society Network

Become an HOA member to hear John’s lectures

CONNECT

View Details

Any homesteader who has a dairy animal or two knows the importance of finding a use for all of that milk. Making cheese at home is not only a great way to provide nourishing food for your family, it is also an excellent method of preserving milk. Robyn began her cheesemaking journey by using her dairy cow’s milk to make cheese for her family, and she quickly realized there was a need for cheesemaking education specifically for the homesteader. In this conversation, Robyn answers the most common questions about getting started making cheese from scratch. If learning how to make cheese is on your list of skills to master, give this episode a listen!

In this episode, we cover:

From the start of Robyn’s cheesemaking endeavors to her successful online education business
An ideal time of year to make cheese
What to look for when choosing a homestead dairy animal for cheesemaking
The best types of cheeses to start making if you are new
How long does it take to make cheese and what is the process?
Choosing and working with the bacteria and acid necessary for cheesemaking
What is a clabber culture and how can you create one?
Deciding what kind of rennet is right for your cheesemaking
Do I need a lot of special equipment to get started making cheese?
An overview of the process of making and aging hard cheeses
Contamination concerns and how to avoid them

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

The Christmas Cheeseboard ebook

The Milkmaid Society

The Art of Natural Cheesemaking by David Asher

Inkbird

CONNECT

Robyn Jackson of Cheese from Scratch | Website | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook

The Art of Natural Cheesemaking: Using Traditional, Non-Industrial Methods and Raw Ingredients to Make the World's Best Cheeses

View Details

As homesteaders and farmers, local and federal regulations around food production and property rights impact us more than we might like to admit. Nick Freitas joins us today to break down what it looks like for average citizens to get involved in the legislative process and make a difference in their communities. Homesteaders, it is more important than ever to stay informed and make our voices heard!

In this episode, we cover:

How to find out what is happening legislatively in the food freedom realm
Easy ways that anyone can get involved in local policy
Examining some specific food guidelines in the state of Virginia
The importance of building a relationship with your delegates and senators
Ways you can start advocating for change even if you don’t like politics
The biggest impact you can make for the homesteading community may not be what you think

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

VDACS

VICFA

PRIME Act

Virginia’s Legislative Information Services

Rogue Food Conference

Institute for Justice

CONNECT

View Details

Jill Winger is one of the original homestead bloggers to start sharing her homesteading journey online. She has been living this lifestyle for well over a decade, and she has gained insight and perspective over those years that she loves to share with others in the homesteading community. In this conversation, we dive into comparison, money mindsets, community enrichment, and more. Whether you are a new homesteader or have been living this lifestyle for years, may Jill’s encouragement meet you right where you are.

In this episode, we cover:

Jill’s early start in homesteading
Bringing a realistic perspective to what homesteading looks like in real life vs. online
Examining money mindsets in the homestead world
Keeping in mind the full picture when we are tempted to envy someone else’s success
What it looks like to begin reaping the benefits of years of hard, unseen work and sacrifice
Discerning when it is time to scale back in your homestead or business
How old-fashioned living can benefit you no matter where you live
Extending the gifts of homesteading beyond the borders of your own property

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

ABOUT JILL

Jill is the founder of The Prairie Homestead, one of the foremost homesteading websites since 2010. She is dedicated to helping others learn how to grow their own food and live a more fulfilling, old-fashioned life.

Her practical and authentic style of teaching and storytelling has won the hearts of hundreds of thousands of homesteaders across social media and through the top-ranked Old Fashioned on Purpose podcast and best-selling The Prairie Homestead Cookbook.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Old-Fashioned On Purpose by Jill Winger

CONNECT

View Details

You might recognize today’s guest from her successful years-long career in Christian music, but you may not know that Francesca Battistelli is part of the homesteading world as well. What began as a nudge to leave behind the busy pace of a traveling musician and spend more time at home with her children has turned into a full-blown homesteading, homeschooling, homemaking, home-loving life. Join us as Francesca shares her homesteading story: how it all got started, where they are now, and what they hope and dream for the future. Along the way, Francesca points out so many of the beautiful reasons that the homesteading lifestyle has captured so many of our hearts here in the HOA community.

In this episode, we cover:

What led Francesca from a music career on the road to the slower pace of homestead life
How kids participate in the homestead and what they gain from this lifestyle
Family relationships and changes in community when embarking on a homesteading journey
What homesteading endeavors Francesca has taken on in her first few years of homesteading
Thinking through the long-term goal of your homestead
What homeschooling looks like for Francesca and her six children
How homesteading lends itself to a life of continual learning
Noticing the everyday beauty around the homestead

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

HOA podcast episode with Joel Salatin

CONNECT

View Details

For dairy cow owners who find themselves overwhelmed with an abundance of milk or an abundance of friends and neighbors asking for milk, a herdshare could be a great option for you! Additionally, if you live in a state where it is illegal to sell raw milk, starting a herdshare is a wonderful way to provide milk to your community without legal issues. Whether you are looking to join a herdshare in your area or start one from your own homestead, this episode is a great starting place to get your questions answered. Michelle and Adam have been running their herdshare for a couple of years now, and they are generously sharing their insight into this process from start to finish!

In this episode, we cover:

How the Barringers got started with dairy cows and eventually started their herdshare
Various ways the children get involved in the family herdshare endeavor
Walking through the setup and routine of a small home dairy
The many factors to consider when deciding how to feed your dairy cow
What are the health benefits of drinking raw milk?
Navigating the legalities of raw milk sales and herdshares in your state
An overview of the supplies and equipment you need to start a herdshare
How to start marketing your herdshare to find members

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

RealMilk.com

Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund

Visit Michelle & Adam’s website for more information about their farm and herdshare

Check out Michelle’s podcast, Biscuits and Gravy, and follow along on Instagram

CONNECT

View Details

Anyone who has tried to fence in livestock knows that there are many variables to consider. Will electric fencing work for every animal? Why might my livestock be escaping? Do I need an additional perimeter fence? In this episode, fencing expert Joe Putnam of Premier 1 Supplies answers many of the most common questions about livestock fencing and shares the variety of resources Premier 1 has to offer homesteaders of all kinds. Join us!

In this episode, we cover:

How Premier 1 got its start and what makes it a unique homestead supplier
A description of exactly how electric fencing works
An overview of other fencing options besides electric netting
What is the appropriate amount of space between fence posts?
Exploring the reasons your livestock might be escaping their fencing
Can electric fencing serve as your perimeter fence?
What Premier 1 offers beyond livestock fencing
The personalized customer support you’ll get from Premier 1

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

ABOUT JOE

Joe Putnam works as a marketing copywriter for Premier 1 Supplies. He frequently appears in Premier’s instructional how-to videos on YouTube. Putnam can be found at farm industry events, where his gentle, hands-on approach makes even the most complex farming topics simple. When not at work, Putnam spends time on his family’s 40-acre farmstead in southeast Iowa. There the family raises cattle, sheep, poultry, multiple gardens, corn, hay, and oats.

CONNECT

Joe Putnam of Premier 1 Supplies | Website

View Details

What started as a mama’s desire to stay home and raise her babies has turned into a full-time income for Natalie’s family that supports their homesteading dreams. Through the successes and failures of growing her first garden, Natalie discovered the magic of worm composting for soil fertility, and it transformed her garden. Natalie began sharing the expertise she gained in worm farming via digital products, and she now teaches other women to do the same. Join us for this discussion on bringing dreams to reality– both in the garden and in entrepreneurship!

In this episode, we cover:

What led Natalie to pursue homesteading and online business
Seeing God’s hand in Natalie’s journey to building her business
Why worm composting is a powerful and underrated tool on a homestead
The exciting future of Natalie’s dream homestead
Final encouragement to those pursuing what God has called them to

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Check out Natalie’s worm farming tips on YouTube

The Ultimate Guide to Passive Paydays eBook

The Gardener’s Guide to Worm Farming Course

CONNECT

View Details

After listening to this episode, you are going to be itching to add dairy sheep to your homestead! Rachel gives an overview of all of the most commonly asked questions about getting started with dairy sheep: milk quality, sheep breeds, breeding, milking, feeding, and more! Sheep are an incredible multi-purpose homestead animal that can thrive even on small acreage. If you want to be part of the sheep movement in the homesteading world, this is a great episode to help you consider whether dairy sheep are a good fit for you!

In this episode, we cover:

What makes sheep such a great multi-purpose homestead animal
Exploring the health benefits and taste of sheep milk
Description of dairy sheep breeds and which are best for beginners
Managing the breeding and lactation cycles of dairy sheep
Various approaches to the nutritional needs of dairy sheep

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

ABOUT RACHEL

Rachel Hester is the author of ‘The Guide to Homestead Dairy sheep’ due to be released by Sawdust Publishing in the fall of 2023. She lives in central Kentucky with her husband and son on 8 ½ acres. Using regenerative agriculture methods to reclaim denatured hayfields into a thriving farm while also supporting her husband’s occupation in Emergency Services has led her to some out of the box management styles for her livestock. In addition to dairy and heritage breed sheep, she has chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, honeybees, angora rabbits and a Jersey cow on her farm. She is a fiber artist and loves handspinning and knitting her sheep’s wool into garments for her family.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Sign up to receive updates from Sawdust Publishing and Whoopsy Daisy Farm about the release of Rachel’s forthcoming book, The Guide to Homestead Dairy Sheep

Episode 20 of the HOA podcast with Janet Garman all about wool sheep

CONNECT

Rachel Hester of Whoopsy Daisy Farm | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

View Details

We are bringing you a series of episodes on the podcast about raising sheep, and in today’s episode, Janet of Timber Creek Farm is lending her expertise to the conversation! Janet has been building her homestead and growing her skills for decades, and she has a unique passion for creating beautiful fibers with natural dyes. Join us as we talk about acquiring and maintaining a healthy flock of sheep that is right for you and your homestead. We also discuss what to do with the wool after shearing and why wool is such a valuable resource.

In this episode, we cover:

Choosing the right breed of fiber sheep for your needs
What health markers to look for when acquiring new sheep
Options for processing wool if you don’t spin it yourself
The differences in raising sheep for wool, dairy, and meat
Types of plants you can use to dye wool naturally
Benefits of wearing wool and other natural fibers
What kind of property you need to raise sheep

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Keeping Sheep and Other Fiber Animals by Janet Garman

50 Do-it-Yourself Projects for Keeping Chickens by Janet Garman

50 Do-it-Yourself Projects for Keeping Goats by Janet Garman

Natural Dyes on Wool with Timber Creek Farm by Janet Garman

Margarita and the Beautiful Gifts by Janet Garman

Sawdust Publishing

The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook by Deborah Robson and Carol Ekarius

Episode 19 of the HOA Podcast: Getting Started with Sheep + Starting a Farm Business

Natural Dyes on Wool eCourse by Timber Creek Farm

Check out Timber Creek Farm on Etsy

CONNECT

Janet Garman of Timber Creek Farm | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

I am noticing a trend in the homesteading world toward raising sheep. There are so many great reasons to consider adding sheep to your homestead, and Grace the Shepherdess is here to share with us all about her small-scale regenerative sheep farming operation. She talks through some of the different breeds of sheep and what they are useful for, the ins and outs of rotational grazing with sheep, and the profitability of raising sheep in today’s market. If you are working with a small piece of land or you are simply interested in adding a smaller-scale ruminant to your homestead, join in on this conversation with the Shepherdess!

In this episode, we cover:

Revitalizing the health of a flock of sheep through grazing management
A description of hair sheep and their primary purpose
What research Grace did to determine that sheep were a far more profitable endeavor for her than cattle
The difference between how sheep interact with pasture versus cattle
Addressing parasite issues effectively in sheep
Being prepared to care for various health concerns that may affect your sheep
What size property do you need to raise sheep?
The unique temperament of sheep and how to develop a trusting relationship with them

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

ABOUT GRACE

Grace is an entrepreneur, Shepherdess, and rotational grazing enthusiast. This eclectic mix converges as she shares her small scale sheep farming operation. Through YouTube Grace shares about regenerative farming for profit, raising Dorper sheep, and daily life as a small-scale, regenerative farmer!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Salad Bar Beef Joel Salatin

Storey’s Guide to Raising Sheep

Be sure to follow Grace’s website and Instagram for updates about her upcoming book The Basics of Raising Sheep on Pasture.

CONNECT

Grace the Shepherdess | Website | Instagram

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

As a long-time content creator in the homesteading space, Justin Rhodes has become something of an expert in building an online business that can support your homestead dreams. In this episode, Justin shares the journey from where he started to where he is now. We even chat about ideas for the future and how to plan for tomorrow in a constantly changing online business environment. Whether you are dreaming of starting your own business or hoping to take yours to the next level, may this conversation with Justin inspire you to take the next step!

Join us as we discuss:

How Justin got started creating homesteading content
Navigating the online world and adapting to the fast-paced changes
Learning from mentors and teaching as you learn
Finding the right business idea for you
The challenges and benefits of learning from the internet
Planning for the future of your business in an ever-changing online landscape

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Permaculture Chickens

Abundance+

Where Are Your Shoes, Mr. Brown?

CONNECT

Justin Rhodes | Website | Instagram | YouTube

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

When it comes to raising dairy cows, pasture management requires more intentionality than you may expect. From understanding the nutritional needs of cows to recognizing signs of poor pasture health, Suzanne of Reverence Farms is a wealth of wisdom on this topic. Whether you have future plans of owning a grazing animal or you are looking to take your current pastures to the next level, this conversation with Suzanne is rich with practical information and plenty of education for every homesteader.

In this episode, we cover:

Pour THIS on your pasture to increase pasture health
What to look for on the surface of your pasture to gauge its health
The beginnings of a healthy pasture
How you can determine a cow’s level of nutrition by their appearance
Understanding the nutritional needs of cows
A real world example of a dairy cow’s diet
What rotational grazing can look like on a small homestead
Markers to look for in evaluating the quality of your grass
The problem with fescue and how to manage it
Shifting our perspective about taking care of our pastures

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Treating Dairy Cows Naturally by Dr. Hubert Karreman

Understanding Ag with Allen Williams

Grass Productivity by André Voisin

Managing Cover Crops Profitably by Andy Clark

CONNECT

Suzanne Nelson of Reverence Farms | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Reverence Farms Instagram

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

As homesteaders, we work hard to make our homes a refuge from the storms that rage in the world around us. Learning to protect what we are building and prepare for the future is an essential part of pursuing homestead security. Author John Dyslin gets fired up about teaching people to stand up against and overcome evil in the world. For those who are believers and those who are not, this conversation will encourage you to be strong and courageous as you prepare for whatever may come in the days ahead.

In this episode, we cover:

How John’s book helps the homesteader prepare for what is to come
What it means to get “a knock on the door” and how you can be prepared
The importance of assembling a community of like-minded people
A word on arming yourself against home invasion
Explaining how to use the tangible lists and resources included in the book
An exhortation for strong men and women to rise up against the evil all around us
Recognizing spiritual warfare around us and preparing to fight with authority in the Holy Spirit
The most important area of preparation for the believer to pursue

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog.

ABOUT JOHN

John Dyslin has been a student of ‘alternative’ history and world events since 2007, and a lifelong student of Scripture and Christian doctrine.

Following careers in finance and as an internet entrepreneur, he turned his attention to today’s emerging issues, including training in counter-human trafficking, pistol and rifle tactics, Ham radios, comms, and scout tactics.

John was turned around in his life by Jesus Christ in 2014, and is a blood-bought chief sinner who strives to do his imperfect best to follow Jesus’ plan for his life.

John is the author of Nehemiah Strong, a 480-page reference guide equipping believers to stand, occupy, and overcome when the enemy comes in like a flood.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Use code HOMESTEAD at JohnDyslin.com for 15% off any purchase

Nehemiah Strong by John Dyslin

Download John’s free Advent guide!

Nightlock Door Security Devices

CONNECT

John Dyslin | Website

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

As homesteaders, we recognize that many of the cultural systems around us are broken. Many of us opt out of mainstream food systems, educational systems, corporate systems, etc. As a long-time religious freedom attorney and founder of a healthcare sharing organization, Mike Sharman is here to talk to us about what it looks like to opt out of the mainstream health insurance system. We’ll chat about how healthcare sharing can support our medical freedom, financial freedom, and religious freedom all at the same time. Join us!

In this episode, we cover:

How Share HealthCare was founded and what sets it apart
Mike’s background of advocating for religious freedom in recent years
What exactly does healthcare sharing cost?
The biblical basis for healthcare sharing
What about the legal aspect of healthcare sharing?
How medical freedom, financial freedom, and religious freedom work together at Share HealthCare
Where to start if you want to advocate for health insurance reform in your area
How healthcare sharing begins to change the culture

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you to our sponsor!

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide selection of poultry breeds and supplies to assist you with raising your flock. Find what you need at McMurrayHatchery.com!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Check out ShareHealthCare.com or call (844) SHARE-HC for more information

CONNECT

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

We get a lot of questions about what it looks like to involve your kids in your homestead. As a mother of seven and multigenerational homesteader, RuthAnn does this really well. Join us as we discuss age-appropriate responsibilities for children, having realistic expectations for your season of parenting, the gift of boredom for our children, and more!

In this episode, we cover:

Prioritizing tasks in a busy household
How to implement chores in your family for the first time
Involving children in chores according to their age and ability
How motherhood changes over time as we grow and our children grow
The vital role of mothers as the hub of the family
Why it is important to bring our children along as we work through our daily tasks
A case for letting kids be bored
Heartfelt advice for the new homesteader on social media
Accomplishing your homesteading goals even if you are not a planner
The importance of sharing the homestead vision with your children

Thank you to our sponsor!

Premier 1 Supplies is your one-stop shop for all things homesteading! Visit Premier1Supplies.com to browse their catalog. View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

ABOUT RUTHANN

RuthAnn and her family live in northeast Iowa. She and her husband, Elvin, have seven children and one son-in-law. Five of the children still live at home. RuthAnn and her husband have been homesteading on their 21-acre homestead since 2001. They seek to preserve the self-sufficient lifestyle of their Mennonite heritage for the next generation by involving their children in every aspect of the homestead. From raising and harvesting the meat they consume, gardening and preserving to fill the family's larder, processing the dairy from the family milk cow plus the many other skills that develop the character and integrity of a family that desires to bring glory and honor to their Heavenly Father.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

RuthAnn’s Old Fashioned Approach to Childhood Chores eBook

HOA episode with Joel Salatin

Homestead Tsunami by Joel Salatin

CONNECT

RuthAnn Zimmerman | Website | Instagram | YouTube | Email List

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

We fondly refer to Joel as the grandfather of the homesteading community. With decades of experience in the farming and homesteading world, he brings incredible insight to this discussion of the current state of homesteading. Joel’s upcoming book, Homestead Tsunami, serves as a source of inspiration and aspiration for those who desire to articulate a solid “why” behind their decision to live a homesteading lifestyle. No matter where you are on the homesteading spectrum, may you find encouragement that this way of life is worth it.

In this episode, we cover:

Why are so many people flocking toward homesteading right now?
Rejecting fear-based motivations and moving forward in faith
A picture of homesteading in Israel
How homesteading is like building an ark
Raising hard working children of integrity in our current culture
The power of disconnecting from manmade things and connecting to God’s creation
Exploring what is behind the urban vs. rural mindset
How to ignite meaningful change in our current climate

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

About Joel’s upcoming book: Homestead Tsunami

Polyface Micro by Joel Salatin

The Benedict Option by Rod Dreher

Crunchy Cons by Rod Dreher

CONNECT

Joel Salatin of Polyface Farms | Website | Instagram | Facebook

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

Ann has been homesteading for nearly a decade now, and she places a particular emphasis on growing as much of her family’s food as possible. In fact, she estimates that they produce around 80% of their own food on their Tennessee homestead.

In our conversation, we discuss what it looks like to plan and grow a year’s worth of food for your family. We talk about adapting to your climate, evaluating your family’s unique needs, optimizing the harvest, and more. Grab your garden planner and pen, and join us for this episode!

In this episode, we cover:

Considerations for gardening in various climates
The surprising benefit of gardening in clay soil
Choosing what to grow based on your climate
Arranging your garden spatially
How to factor crop yield and pantry inventory
Optimizing your harvest through succession planting and preserving
The importance of documenting the details of your garden
Why planning ahead makes all the difference in your garden
Tailoring your garden to your unique family
How less might actually be more in the garden

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Acorn Creek Farmstead

A Farm Girl’s Guide to Preserving the Harvest by Ann Accetta-Scott

The Homestead Journal Planner by Homesteaders of America

Clyde's Garden Planner

CONNECT

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

With springtime fast approaching, homesteaders and backyard chicken keepers are planning ahead for their next round of chicks. In this conversation with Tom of Murray McMurray Hatchery, we discuss everything a brand new chicken owner needs to know to get started. Tom also shares about some of the rare breeds being raised at McMurray; you don’t want to miss it!

In this episode, we cover:

Three chicken breeds that are great for getting started
Speciality breeds raised by McMurray Hatchery
What you need to know about ordering meat chickens this year
Ordering trends of backyard chicken keepers vs. homesteaders
Legislation concerning shipping live chickens
Considerations for raising multiple types of poultry together
Is it possible to get healthy chicks through the mail?
How to prevent and treat the most common chicken illnesses

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

ABOUT TOM

Tom Watkins is the President and co-owner of Murray McMurray Hatchery in Webster City, Iowa. Tom and his father-in-law, Bud Wood, are building on the company’s 105-year-old legacy of hatching the highest quality baby poultry in the U.S. Tom manages day-to-day operations of the hatchery which offers more than 120 varieties of chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, and many other types of poultry and fowl. Tom, his wife Ashley, and their four children have a 5-acre homestead in central Iowa where they raised and keep their own flock of chickens, turkeys, pigs, and Scottish Highland cattle.

CONNECT

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

It is the time of year when gardeners get the itch to start seeds. Depending on your zone, you may have already begun the process of sprouting seeds for your future garden. Whether you are already watching tiny sprouts emerge or you have many weeks left to wait, you will love this conversation with Paul Hutcheson, owner of Windmill Heights Garden Center. He breaks down how to achieve the perfect timing in starting seeds and transplanting, how to pursue ideal conditions, plus some incredible advice for new gardeners. Join us for this rich conversation as we look forward to spring and summer gardening.

In this episode, we cover:

Paul’s story of growing up in a gardening family and taking over the family business
The two most important dates for a gardener to know each year
Doing the math on when to start different seeds
Choosing the right soil for seed starting
Creating the ideal conditions through light, temperature, and nutrition
The process of hardening off and transplanting outdoors
Continuing to care for your seedlings after you have planted them in the ground
Deciding whether to start your own seeds or purchase started plants
Advice for the beginning gardener
The value of keeping a record of your garden over the years

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

The story of Windmill Heights Garden Center with Paul and Mason

The Homestead Journal Planner

CONNECT

Paul Hutcheson | Website | Instagram | Facebook

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

Now that we have discussed how to choose a family milk cow, we are diving into how to keep your cow healthy the natural way. If approaching natural livestock care seems overwhelming to you, you will definitely want to join us for this episode because Joshua does an amazing job of explaining his holistic approach in simple terms. We address the most common fears cow owners have: mastitis, parasites, antibiotics, supporting the overall immune system, and more. As a farmer raising grass-fed A2A2 dairy cows in a holistic way, Joshua is a wealth of knowledge on raising the healthiest cows possible.

In this episode, we cover:

What A2A2 means and why it matters
Reasons why you might cull a cow when building your herd
Grass-fed genetics are more important than you think
Exploring some root causes of mastitis
The ramifications of using antibiotics in your cow
Simple and effective ways to treat mastitis at home
How to boost your cow’s immune system naturally
What minerals cows need and why you want to mix them yourself
Top three areas of health to assess your cow’s overall wellbeing
Beneficial and harmful grasses and forage for cows
Treating and preventing parasites naturally

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

ABOUT JOSHUA

Joshua Fuhrmann is a dairy farmer in Virginia raising a grass-fed A2A2 herd. Joshua loves cows and God's design for farming. Joshua offers phone consultations if you are interested in more information from him. You can also email or call the farm to get in touch with his family and learn more about farming and natural living. Visit www.ourfathersfarmva.com to learn more.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Selenium 90 from New Country Organics

Check out Kim Fuhrmann’s book Journey Back to Health

CONNECT

Joshua Fuhrmann | Website

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

The family milk cow is quickly becoming the new backyard flock of chickens. More and more people are realizing the amazing benefits of adding a dairy cow to their homestead.

This month on the podcast, we are focusing on all things dairy cow. Shawn and Beth Dougherty are the perfect couple to lend their voice to this conversation as they have over four decades of experience farming and perfecting the art of grass conversion through dairy ruminants.

If you are considering adding a family milk cow to your homestead or are new to the world of home dairy, this discussion is for you. We dive into the most commonly asked questions when it comes to getting started with dairy cows: breed, acreage, feed, health, and more. If a dairy cow is in your future, start here!

In this episode, we cover:

Making the switch from dairy goats to dairy cows
What breeds make the best dairy cows
Other factors that may be more important than breed
What’s the big deal about A2A2?
Is your land appropriate for a milk cow?
The practicals of feeding a 100% grass-fed cow
Top features to look for when purchasing a dairy cow
What makes a perfect milk cow for a first-time owner
How important is disease testing?

View full show notes and transcript on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

The Independent Farmstead by Shawn & Beth Dougherty

Independent Farmstead Field Guides to Inputs-Free Farming and Homesteading by Shawn & Beth Dougherty

How to Raise a Dairy Cow on Pasture by Beth Dougherty

CONNECT

Shawn & Beth Dougherty | Website | The Healing Land Conference

Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

View Details

In this episode, we get in-depth about the recent Amos Miller federal case, what food freedom and choice SHOULD look like, and how we can fight back against unconstitutional laws and mandates when it comes to food from the farm and our neighbor.

Visit us online at https://www.homesteadersofamerica.com

View Details

Homesteading health is important! Healthcare and health freedom is even more important. Listen as Dr. Theron Hutton, MD of Mulberry Clinic in Spring Hill, TN gives us a breakdown of his life, business, and beliefs. And learn why it's important to question the current healthcare narrative!

Visit us online at https://www.homesteadersofamerica.com

View Details

As you begin looking for homestead land, there are a few things you should consider before purchasing. One of the biggest things is saving up enough cash to purchase your land outright. In this episode, we alway quickly go over the reality of competition in land ownership with foreign countries here in the United States, which affects the farm community and homesteaders more than you may realize.

• • Check us out online at homesteadersofamerica.com

• • Read more about foreign land ownership here:

https://thefewellhomestead.com/american-farmers-homesteaders-competing-with-foreign-land-ownership/

View Details

With the craziness of 2020 still lingering, and more craziness emerging in 2021....it's time we start thinking about all the things homesteaders CAN agree on, instead of what we might think we disagree on. From politics to milk cows, let's talk about it all.

Join us online at https://www.homesteadersofamerica.com

View Details

It's time to start winding down the season in 2020. That means you're prepping for winter and the end of the business year. As you put the garden to rest, prepare livestock for harsh cold weather, and prepare those dreaded taxes...here are a few things you may not have considered as you close out the homestead this year.

Join us online at https://www.homesteadersofamerica.com

• • FROM THIS EPISODE:

How to Grow Fodder for Your Livestock and Chickens:

https://thefewellhomestead.com/growing-fodder-for-chickens-chicken-fodder-system/

The 2021 Homestead Journal Planner:

https://homesteadersofamerica.com/product/2021-the-homestead-journal-planner-pre-order/

The 2021 Homesteaders of America Conference:

https://homesteadersofamerica.com/2021-homesteaders-of-america-conference/

View Details

In their brand new book, Beyond Labels, Sina McCullough and Joel Salatin walk us through some pretty incredible truths about living a healthier lifestyle and our food system. A conversation between a doctor and a farmer about food, labels, where our food comes from, and living a healthy lifestyle—this book needs to be in everyone’s hands! Join us for a LIVE chat with Sina and Joel on Tuesday June 8, 2020 at 9 am EST on the Homesteaders of America Youtube Channel! This is a great time to listen about the book, ask Sina and Joel questions in the live chat, and more!

More info here: https://homesteadersofamerica.com/beyond-labels-live-interview-with-joel-salatin-sina-mccullough/

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY on the Homesteaders of America social media outlets below:

Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/homesteadersofamerica

Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/homesteadersofamerica

View Details

Here at Homesteaders of America, we're constantly growing, learning, and sharing! We hope we can do that by bringing this brand new podcast to you! It's another way for us to reach homesteaders all across the country, and beyond. In this episode learn who we are, what we're about, what we believe, and what you can expect from our brand new podcast!

• • • Join us online here

Homesteaders of America website

Homesteaders of America membership

HOA Instagram

HOA Facebook

HOA Youtube

View Details

Welcome to the official Homesteaders of America podcast—where we bring homesteading to life through interviews, current events, tips and tricks, and more! Whether you’re homesteading on 500 acres, or in an apartment in a big city—this podcast is for you. Join us as we learn and share about vintage skills and self-sufficient living in a modern world. And don’t forget to check out the Homesteaders of America conference, held each and every year in October right here in Virginia! Where we come together in a big homesteader family reunion, learn together, grow together, and just have true homestead fun together. We hope you enjoy the show—thanks for being a pioneer and trail blazer in this homesteading community. We can’t wait to learn with you!

Homesteaders of America: Recent Episodes

Homesteaders of America