The Modern Homesteading Podcast

On today’s podcast episode, Harold and Rachel dive into the world of outdoor kitchens—why they’re a game-changer for homesteaders and how to design one that fits your needs and budget. From saving energy and simplifying canning to creating community spaces and preparing for emergencies, we cover the benefits, layout ideas, tools, materials, and real-life tips. Whether you’re building from scratch or buying a kit, this is your guide...

In this podcast episode, we explore how garden paths can do so much more than provide a place to walk—they can support soil health, manage water, grow food, host wildlife, and even tell a story. Designed with permaculture in mind, paths become a powerful tool for creating a productive and regenerative garden. From living groundcovers and composting mulch layers to contour-based water management and edible edges, you’ll learn how to...

In this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, Rachel talks all about broth. From simple meat stock to rich bone broth and even vegetable-based options, she breaks down the different types, their benefits, how to make them, and why they’re a staple in so many homestead kitchens. Whether you're new to broth or looking to fine-tune your process, this episode is packed with practical tips and homesteader wisdom.Find the full ...

In this podcast episode, we explore a refreshing new take on permaculture through the lens of Mulberries in the Rain, a deeply personal and story-driven book by Ryan Blosser and Trevor Piersol. Unlike traditional how-to guides, this book weaves together memories, relationships, and life lessons with plants—making permaculture feel alive, heartfelt, and accessible. Through authentic storytelling, Ryan shares how plants became part o...

In this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, we’re joined by the amazing Melissa K. Norris—homesteader, author, and founder of the Pioneering Today Podcast! Melissa shares practical, real-life tips for cooking from scratch, even during the busiest seasons on the homestead.

From batch cooking to freezer-friendly favorites and mastering one dough recipe for everything from rolls to pizza—this conversation is packed with helpful...

Fences serve many roles on a homestead—keeping livestock in, keeping predators out, marking property boundaries, and providing privacy. However, in permaculture, we strive to make everything serve multiple functions. Well-designed permaculture fences can do much more than just create a barrier; it can become an integral part of the ecosystem, enhancing biodiversity, microclimates, and soil health.

In this podcast episode, we’ll ...

Embarking on the journey of starting a homestead from scratch can feel overwhelming, especially when considering the possible costs involved. However, it’s possible to live the homesteading lifestyle with a small budget.These tips will guide you through the top lessons I've learned from starting and operating a homestead on a small budget and helped me make decisions that have paid off in the long run.Find the full show notes and l...

Everyone dreams of a thriving homestead—a place where fresh food is just steps away and animals live in harmony with the land. Permaculture offers a way to design that dream and help it grow over time. In this podcast episode guest Takota Coen—who has spent years learning, experimenting, and helping others—gives us advice on things to consider to design and implement permaculture into your homestead.

Find the show notes and links me...

The Modern Homesteading Podcast - Episode 275

A well-planned garden can provide more than just food for people—it can support livestock, pollinators, and soil health all at once. A Four-Fold Holistic Food Garden integrates these elements, creating a balanced ecosystem that maximizes productivity and sustainability. By focusing on these four key areas, you can build a garden that works in harmony with nature while meeting multiple ne...

When we think of leaves, we often picture them as the green parts of plants that we compost or occasionally toss into the cooking pot. However, many leaves offer a wealth of unique benefits beyond simple culinary uses. They can help improve soil health, provide natural pest control, serve as crafting materials, and even support herbal remedies—all while promoting a more sustainable homestead.

In this episode, we’ll explore leaves th...

Starting seeds indoors can be a rewarding step in gardening. It allows you to get a head start on the growing season, select the best plant varieties, and save money compared to buying seedlings. However, success depends on a few key factors, two of which are the right soil mix and the proper seed trays. 

In this episode, we’ll explore the best soil options for seed starting, the different types of seed trays, and practical tips to ...

Homesteaders are always looking for ways to extend the growing season, start seeds indoors, and even grow food year-round. Grow lights are a game-changer when it comes to providing the right light conditions for plants when natural sunlight isn’t sufficient. Whether you’re starting vegetable seedlings for your garden or cultivating herbs and leafy greens indoors, choosing and using the right grow lights can make all the difference.

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A well-organized workshop is the heart of any homestead. Whether you're fixing broken tools, building new projects, or maintaining equipment, a dedicated workspace makes all the difference. Having a homestead shop saves time, money, and frustration by keeping everything organized, and ready when you need it. In this podcast episode, we’ll cover why every homesteader should have a shop, where to set it up, and how to design and...