From Backyard to Self-Sufficiency: Rethinking Modern Homesteading with Ryan Steva

Episode Description: Join host Jeremy Rivera as he sits down with Ryan Steva, founder of The Homestead Consultant, to explore how modern homesteading can work for everyone - from apartment dwellers to large property owners. Ryan shares his journey from a life-changing health crisis to becoming a Cookeville area home inspector and homesteading consultant, offering practical insights on sustainable living, energy independence, and building resilient systems.

Show Notes: [00:01] - Introduction to Ryan Steva and The Homestead Consultant
[00:37] - Ryan explains his approach to homesteading and working with clients
[01:17] - Discussion of modern homesteading: from urban spaces to full properties
[03:04] - Ryan shares his first gardening experience and learning from failure and challenges of being a Cookeville service area business
[04:42] - Deep dive into problems with current food systems
[07:12] - Ryan's personal health crisis and discovering food as medicine
[11:24] - Breakdown of different homesteading areas (food, energy, permaculture)
[13:36] - Detailed explanation of permaculture design principles
[14:33] - Discussion of efficient farming systems and soil management
[21:18] - Practical approaches to home energy production
[23:12] - Creative solutions for direct solar applications
[29:03] - Emergency preparedness vs. practical skills development
[31:07] - Inside look at Ryan's consultation process
[34:25] - Key skills for beginning homesteaders
[39:13] - Information about classes and how to connect with Ryan

Featured Links:

• Website: thehomesteadconsultant.com
• YouTube Channel: The Homestead Consultant

Key Topics:

• Modern homesteading approaches
• Sustainable agriculture practices
• Direct solar applications
• Permaculture design principles
• Emergency preparedness
• Skill development for beginners

Guest Contact: Ryan Steva offers free classes in the Tennessee area (including Sparta, Cookeville, Spencer, and Lebanon) and can be reached through his website thehomesteadconsultant.com

Referenced Podcasts & resources:

• Jack Sherell, Cookeville's The Asphalt Team
• Save Fry Oil - A commercial restaurant cost savings company