Homesteaders of America

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 Jack & Kim Fuhrmann of Our Father’s Farm | WebsiteHomesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 John Lovell of The Warrior Poet Society | Website | YouTube | Instagram | FacebookHomesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Nick Freitas | Website | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | FacebookHomesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Jill Winger of The Prairie Homestead | Website | Podcast | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | PinterestHomesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Francesca Battistelli | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | Pandora Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Michelle & Adam Barringer | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeHomesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Natalie Argo of Hey It’s a Good Life | Website | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | TikTokHomesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

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  Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

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 Mike Sharman of Share HealthCare | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn  Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!

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 Homesteaders of America | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest Join us at the Homesteaders of America Conference in October 2023!