The Homestead Challenge Podcast | Suburban Homesteading, Gardening, Food From Scratch, Sustainable Living

Ep 216. Everything on my Farmstand is Something I Actually Use

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 08:25:15 -0400

Before most of these things ever made it onto my farmstand, they had a place on my own shelves. In this episode, I’m taking you behind the stand to share everything from pantry mixes, jams, teas, and homemade cleaning products to sugar scrubs, simmer pots, bug spray, fresh herbs, flowers, and more. I’m sharing how I actually use them in my own home, what makes a great homemade gift, and why you absolutely don’t need to learn how to make everything at once.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 215. The August Reset. What Worked, What Didn't & Getting Back to a Homesteading Rhythm

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 09:32:11 -0400

After a busy summer away from the podcast, I’m back for an honest late-summer homestead check-in! We’re talking about what worked this summer, what definitely didn’t, garden wins and failures, what I’ve actually been preserving, and the lessons I’m taking into next year. Plus, I’m sharing my realistic August reset as we head toward back-to-school season and figuring out how to get back into routines without wishing summer away.

Ep 214. How I Decide What Gets Preserved (and What Doesn't)

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 04:26:00 -0400

When it comes to preserving your harvest, there isn't one "right" method. In this episode, I'm walking you through the decision-making process I use for every crop in my garden and explaining why some vegetables go straight into the freezer, others get dried or fermented, and some are best enjoyed fresh.

Rather than preserving food because we feel like we should, I'm sharing how I think about convenience, storage space, family preferences, and how Future Brittany will actually use each ingredient months from now.

In this episode, we cover:

Why canning isn't always the best preservation method
The question I ask before preserving any harvest
Why I dry nearly all of my herbs
My favorite ways to preserve tomatoes
Why I ferment cucumbers instead of canning them
Freezing versus canning green beans
The easiest way to preserve peppers
Storing potatoes and winter squash
What I do with zucchini and yellow squash
Preserving broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage
How storage space affects preservation decisions
Taking inventory before preserving another season's harvest

The biggest takeaway

Instead of asking, "How should I preserve this?" ask yourself, "How will I actually use this six months from now?" That one simple question can help you save time, reduce waste, and build a pantry you'll truly enjoy using.

Ep 213. Harvesting with a Purpose. Why I'm Already Thinking About Christmas in July

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:16:13 -0400

Don't let your summer herb harvest go to waste! In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, Brittany shares how she's preserving herbs now to create thoughtful homemade Christmas gifts later. From herbal salts and tea blends to drying herbs, cut flower bouquets, and experimenting with herbal chapsticks, you'll learn practical ways to make the most of your garden while preparing for the holidays months in advance. Whether you're growing herbs in a backyard garden or a few containers on the porch, this episode will inspire you to harvest with purpose and help future you enjoy a less stressful holiday season.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/drying-and-storing-fresh-herbs/

Ep 212. Why I am Planting More Seeds... All Summer Long

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:36:00 -0400

One of the biggest gardening mistakes I made for years?

Thinking that once everything was planted in the spring... I was done.

This year, every time a spot opens up in my garden, I'm putting more seeds in the ground. More lettuce. More beans. More carrots. It's such a simple habit, but I think it's going to make a huge difference in how much fresh food we get to enjoy this season.

In this week's podcast episode, I'm sharing my very relaxed approach to succession sowing. No complicated spreadsheets or perfect timing required—just a few extra seed packets and a willingness to keep planting.

Are you still planting things in your garden? What are you sowing this week? 🌱

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 211. How I am Opening a Farmstand in the City (Every Decision I Had to Make)

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:33:00 -0400

Have you ever dreamed of opening a farm stand, even if you live in the city? In this episode, I'm sharing the real behind-the-scenes process of starting my front yard farm stand, Falls City Farmstead, in suburban Ohio. From choosing products and navigating Ohio cottage food laws to pricing handmade herbal products, managing liability concerns, and overcoming the fear of theft, I'm walking you through every decision I made along the way.

Whether you want to sell flowers, extra garden produce, homemade goods, eggs, or herbal products, this episode will encourage you to start where you are and build something that fits your life. If you've ever wondered how to start a farm stand, create a small homestead business, or turn your hobby into a source of income, this episode is for you.

In this episode:

How to start a farm stand in the city
Choosing what to sell from your homestead
Ohio cottage food laws and labeling considerations
Pricing homemade products
Farm stand theft concerns and liability
Marketing a small local business
Why community matters more than competition

Follow @falls.city.farmstead on instagram :)

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review to help more people discover practical, no-pressure homesteading.

Ep 210. Why I Stopped Panicking About Garden Bugs

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 16:04:26 -0400

In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we're talking all about bugs in the organic garden. Learn which insects are beneficial, how trap crops work, when to leave pests alone, and when it's time to intervene with simple organic solutions. If your garden has holes in the leaves, aphids, cabbage worms, or chipmunks causing trouble, you're definitely not alone.

#organicgardening #vegetablegarden #homesteading #gardenpests #backyardgarden

Ep 209. Garden Update, What's Growing, What's Failing and Life Lately

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 10:03:02 -0400

In this June garden update, we're sharing what's growing in our Zone 6 garden, the challenges we're facing this season, and a few personal life updates along the way. From harvesting herbs and strawberries to dealing with pests, watering struggles, and the unexpected loss of a beloved family dog, this episode is an honest look at real-life homesteading and finding peace in the garden during difficult seasons.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/

Ep 208. The Most Underappreciated Herb in My Garden

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:21:00 -0400

Sage is one of the easiest herbs to grow, but it's also one of the most overlooked. In this episode, we explore practical ways to use garden sage, including culinary projects, herbal remedies, preserving methods, and why this hardy perennial deserves a place in every homestead garden.

Whether your sage plant is thriving or you've never known what to do with it, you'll leave with simple ideas to start harvesting and using this versatile herb.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 207. The Real Workflow of Summer Canning in a Suburban Homestead

Fri, 29 May 2026 04:17:00 -0400

Summer canning doesn't have to mean marathon weekends, Pinterest-perfect pantries, or preserving every tomato you grow. In this episode, we're talking about what summer canning actually looks like in a busy suburban home—from deciding what's worth canning and using a two-day workflow to freezing harvests, preserving in small batches, and fitting it all into real life with kids. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by food preservation, this episode will help you create a canning rhythm that works for you.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/canning-tips/

Ep 206. The Hidden Consumerism in Homesteading

Fri, 22 May 2026 04:03:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re talking about the hidden consumerism that can sneak into the homesteading lifestyle and why it’s so easy to buy the fantasy version of homesteading instead of actually living it. We chat about homestead perfectionism, comparison culture, overbuying supplies, hobby collecting vs. hobby doing, and why buying food for your family is not failure if you’re actually using it. If you’ve ever felt pressure to have the perfect pantry, garden, or homesteading setup, this episode is a gentle reminder that simple, imperfect homesteading still counts.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 205. You Don't Need a Commune to Build a Homesteading Community

Tue, 19 May 2026 04:47:00 -0400

In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we’re talking about how to build homesteading community in the city or suburbs without starting a commune or forcing yourself to be extroverted. From community gardens and native plant sales to Facebook Marketplace swaps, school gardens, and local farm stands, I’m sharing simple, low-pressure ways to connect with other gardeners, homesteaders, and like-minded people right where you live. If you’ve been craving real community, local food connections, or fellow “weird” garden people, this episode will encourage you to start small and find your people.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/community-for-modern-homesteaders/

Ep 204. The Homesteading Mindset Shift I Need Most

Thu, 14 May 2026 04:33:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re talking about a simple homesteading mindset shift that has been helping me slow down, spend less impulsively, and feel more connected to my home: create before you consume. I’m sharing how homesteading hobbies like gardening, baking, organizing, and herbalism helped me stop constantly chasing more, plus practical ways to avoid perfectionism and consumerism in the homesteading lifestyle.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 203. The Garden Plants that Keep Coming Back for Free

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:32:00 -0400

In this episode of the The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we’re talking about some of the best free plants for the garden — including self-seeding flowers and herbs, volunteer plants, and perennials you can divide again and again. From calendula and dill to chives, lemon balm, and surprise tomato plants popping up from the compost, these are the kinds of plants that help your garden become more abundant every single year.

If you want to garden on a budget, simplify your garden planning, or create a lower-maintenance homestead garden, this episode is full of practical ideas for busy gardeners and small-space homesteaders. We’ll also talk about why letting nature do a little of the work can make gardening feel more joyful, less expensive, and a whole lot less overwhelming.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/

Ep 202. 5 Easy Ferments I'm Trying This Summer (That Don't Feel Overwhelming)

Fri, 08 May 2026 04:35:00 -0400

Learn alongside me as we talk about 5 easy ferments I’m trying this summer that actually feel realistic for busy moms and small-scale homesteaders. In this episode, we’re chatting about simple refrigerator pickles, sauerkraut, fermented salsa, kombucha, and easy veggie mixes—plus beginner fears, food safety, mold worries, and how to start fermenting without expensive equipment or crunchy perfectionism. If you’ve been curious about preserving your garden harvest naturally, this episode will help you feel confident enough to finally try it.

Sauerkraut Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/homemade-sauerkraut-learn-to-ferment-from-a-total-newbie-i-promise-its-not-that-scary/

My Favorite Fermenting Equipment: https://a.co/d/03H99P3f

Ep 201. How to Grow Cut Flowers in Any Space with Josie Blessing of Olde Soul Acres

Tue, 05 May 2026 04:28:00 -0400

Today I am chatting all about growing cut flowers with Josie Blessing, author of The Homesteader’s Guide to Cut Flowers, and why flowers are so much more than just “extra” in the garden. We talk about how to grow flowers even in small spaces, the best low-maintenance varieties for busy seasons, and how they support everything from pollinators to herbal remedies. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or unsure where to start, this episode will give you the confidence to just begin.

Preorder The Homesteader's Guide to Cut Flowers on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4d4aQ2G (affiliate link)

Ep 200. Is Homesteading Worth It? My Honest Experience After 200 Epsiodes

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:34:00 -0400

We’re celebrating 200 episodes of The Homestead Challenge podcast by reflecting on what homesteading has really brought into my life. In this episode, I’m answering a few candid questions about how I got started, how my definition of homesteading has changed, and why I still choose this lifestyle—even in busy seasons. If you’ve ever felt like you’re not doing enough, this is your reminder that homesteading can be simple, flexible, and rooted in what brings you peace.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 199. Start These Herbal Products Now Before Summer

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:54:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re talking about the simple herbal products we should start now before summer hits—because things like bug spray, salves, and infused sprays take time to steep. We walk through what we’re making right now (like herbal bug spray, dried mint for tea, and calendula salve) and how to think ahead so summer feels easier and more prepared.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 198. The Weird Garden Lull: How to Reset Your Systems Before Harvest Season

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:58:00 -0400

We’re talking about the spring-to-summer transition in the garden and that weird lull where everything is planted but harvest hasn’t fully begun. We walk through simple systems we’re resetting now—like herb drying stations, freezer clean-outs, harvest flow, and kitchen organization—to make summer easier and less overwhelming. If you want to stay ahead of the chaos and actually enjoy your garden this season, this episode will help you set up rhythms that work in real life.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 197. 3 Things to Do with Spring Herbs (Before You Get Overwhelmed)

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:56:00 -0400

We’re talking about what to do with the spring herbs you can harvest right now—whether you’re foraging things like dandelion and chickweed or clipping herbs from your garden like chives and mint. If you’ve ever picked herbs and then felt stuck, this episode walks you through three simple ways to use them, plus how to harvest without ruining the plant. It’s a practical, no-pressure way to start actually using what’s growing around you this season.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/

Ep 196. Vertical Tower Gardens for Real Life Homesteaders

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:10:00 -0400

We’re talking all about vertical tower gardens (like GreenStalks)—why we love them, who they’re actually good for, and how they can fit into real life no matter your space. We’re sharing what we’re planting in ours this year, the honest differences between budget vs. higher-end options, and how you can even create a full herbal tea garden in one simple setup.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 195. Spring Foraging for Beginners from What's Already Growing in Your Backyard

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:20:00 -0400

We’re talking about spring foraging for beginners and the easiest way to start—right in your own backyard. In this episode, we cover how to identify and use common edible weeds and wild herbs like henbit, dead nettle, stinging nettle, dandelion, wild violets, chickweed, plantain, garlic mustard, and wild chives, plus when to harvest different parts for the best flavor and benefits. If you’ve been curious about foraging but feel overwhelmed, this is your simple, no-pressure guide to finding edible plants growing around you this spring.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/violet-face-serum/

Ep 194. The Truth About Organic Pest Control for Your Garden

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 04:48:00 -0400

We’re talking about organic pest control for your garden—what it really means, when to step in, and when to let things go. After dealing with an unexpected aphid issue on my seedlings, I’m sharing the products I actually use, how I think about health and exposure, and how to make these decisions without overthinking every little thing.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/companion-planting/

Ep 193. Don't Get Fooled at the Plant Nursery (and What to Watch For)

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 04:02:00 -0400

We’re talking about how to avoid common plant nursery mistakes—from “healthy” looking plants that struggle after transplanting to soil deals that aren’t actually deals. We’ll walk through what to look for so we can shop smarter, save money, and grow a more successful garden this season.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 192. I Tried to Make Spring Easier... Here's What Actually Happened

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:23:00 -0400

We thought prepping in March would make spring feel calm and manageable—but real life had other plans. In this episode, we’re talking about what’s actually helping right now, what we’re letting go of, and how we’re redefining “enough” during a busy, chaotic season.

15 Minute Routine: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/routine/

Ep 191. The Summer Cooking System that Keeps Us Eating Real Food

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 07:30:38 -0400

In this episode, we’re sharing the simple summer cooking system that helps us keep feeding our families real food without spending all evening in the kitchen. We’re talking about using the crockpot, making a few basics ahead of time, and creating an easy rhythm that works with our busy summer days.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 190. Dry Goods to Prep Now for an Easier Garden Season

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:18:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re talking about simple dry goods and convenience mixes we can prep now to make busy garden season so much easier. We walk through easy ideas like brownie mix, cornbread mix, and seasoning blends that help us cook from scratch without the extra time and mess. This is all about reducing mental load and setting ourselves up for a more peaceful, doable summer.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 189. How to Decide What Foods are Worth Growing vs. Buying

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:43:00 -0400

We’re heading into spring and taking a realistic look at what foods are actually worth growing versus just buying, using our own pantry habits as the guide. In this episode, we walk through simple filters to help us decide what makes sense for our space, budget, and goals—so we can grow with intention and skip the overwhelm.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/

Ep 188. Let Your Pantry Tell You What to Grow this Year

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 04:35:00 -0400

In this episode of The Homestead Challenge, we kick off the Make It March series by looking at our pantries to help decide what we should grow in our gardens this year. Instead of planting randomly, we talk about how noticing what we actually eat, run out of, and keep buying can guide smarter garden planning and help us waste less food. This simple pantry inventory helps us connect our grocery habits, pantry staples, and garden goals before the busy growing season begins.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 187. The Only Cleaning Ingredients You Really Need at Home

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:30:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re talking about the simple natural cleaning ingredients to keep on hand so you can clean almost anything without buying a cabinet full of products. I’ll walk you through what vinegar, baking soda, washing soda, castile soap, peroxide, and alcohol actually do — plus which ones truly disinfect and when it’s really necessary. If you want a practical, low-pressure approach to non-toxic cleaning, this episode will help you stock your home with confidence.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/all-natural-cleaning-supplies/

Ep 186. Hidden Toxic Items in Your Home (That You Can Remove Today for FREE!)

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 04:30:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re talking about free ways to reduce toxins in our homes without buying new cleaning products or supplies. We’ll walk through simple changes like removing plug-in air fresheners, skipping dryer sheets, cleaning our cleaning tools, and tackling hidden dust zones that hold onto pollutants. If you want a healthier home this spring without spending money, these small changes can make a surprisingly big impact.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 185. Where to Start with Non-Toxic Cleaning (Without Throwing Everything Away)

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 04:53:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re diving into non-toxic spring cleaning and how to switch to natural cleaning products without throwing everything away. We’ll walk through a simple, low-pressure plan for replacing conventional cleaners — starting with laundry detergent, dish soap, and everyday household products — plus what I actually use in my own home. If you’ve been wanting a healthier home without the overwhelm, this episode will help you start non-toxic cleaning one realistic swap at a time.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/category/sustainable-living/home/

Ep 184. Apothecary February Herbal Q&A

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 04:47:00 -0500

In today’s episode, we’re wrapping up Apothecary February with a relaxed herbal Q&A. I’m answering your questions about overwintering herbs, how I store dried medicinal herbs, and how long they really last.

We also talk about the five herbs I’d grow if I could only choose a few, natural herbs for seasonal allergies like nettle and mullein, and why homemade herbal skincare is one of the biggest “bang for your buck” projects. It’s a cozy, honest close to a month of building a simple, no-pressure home apothecary.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/

Ep 183. Tea Talk: Herbs I Love and Brewing Wisdom

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 04:41:00 -0500

In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we’re having a cozy tea talk all about herbal tea for beginners. I’m sharing the herbs I actually use most often (like chamomile, lemon balm, nettle, hibiscus, and marshmallow root), how I brew herbal infusions and decoctions at home, and simple tips for blending loose leaf tea.

We’ll also talk about rosemary tea benefits, how to make herbal tea stronger for medicinal support, and when tea might not be the best herbal preparation (like when you need something fast or more concentrated). If you’re learning how to brew herbal tea for stress, digestion, hydration, or seasonal immune support, this episode will help you feel more confident using herbs at home — without overwhelm.

Plus, I’ll share how I make tea a simple daily ritual in real life as a busy mom and home herbalist. 🌿☕

Spring Garden Summit: https://thehomesteadchallenge--audreyslittlefarm.thrivecart.com/gsk26-fast-action/679740ca1cb5c/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/how-to-brew-herbal-tea-infusions-and-decoctions/

Ep 182. The Backyard First Aid Garden: Herbs to Grow for Real Life Emergencies

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 04:23:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re talking about building a simple backyard first aid kit using herbs you can grow or forage. From calendula salve for scrapes and dry skin to plantain for bee stings, yarrow for minor bleeding support, lavender for soothing burns, and even cayenne for emergency clotting response — these are practical, real-life herbs for everyday situations. If you’re planning your garden, this episode will give you ideas for herbs that are both beautiful and useful. 🌿

Spring Gardening Summit: https://springgardeningsummit.com/sign-up/?affiliate=thehomesteadchallenge

Ep 181. Herbs for Gut Health

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 04:37:00 -0500

In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we’re talking all about gut health — from mouth to intestines and everything in between. Brittany shares how the digestive system connects to the nervous system and immune system, and why so many modern health struggles may begin in the gut.

You’ll learn practical herbs for common digestive issues, including chamomile, peppermint, and ginger for upset stomachs, marshmallow root and flax for constipation, blackberry leaf and slippery elm for diarrhea support, and how digestive bitters like dandelion root can strengthen digestion over time. She also explains where turmeric fits into daily gut support and briefly touches on parasite-cleansing herbs in a balanced, realistic way.

This episode focuses on gentle, daily herbal support — not extreme cleanses — and how small, consistent habits can help you build a healthier digestive system over time.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/what-are-herbal-bitters/

Ep 180. Adaptogens vs. Nervines: What they are, how they're different, and when to use each

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:43:00 -0500

Adaptogens vs. Nervines: What’s the Difference?

Our nervous systems are overloaded — and not all stress-support herbs work the same way.

In this episode, we break down the difference between adaptogens, nervines, and mood-supporting herbs, including calming vs. stimulating adaptogens and relaxant vs. tonic nervines. We also touch on herbs like St. John’s Wort, mimosa, and lemon balm for seasonal blues and low mood.

If you’ve ever tried an herb and wondered why it didn’t work, this episode will help you understand which category might actually fit your current season — and how to use them safely and thoughtfully.

Ep 179. Herbal Preparations 101: Tea, Infusions, Tinctures, Oils & Salves

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:21:00 -0500

Episode Show Notes: Herbal Preparations 101

Teas, Infusions, Tinctures, Oils & Salves (Apothecary February)

In this episode of Apothecary February, we’re breaking down the most common herbal preparations I actually use at home—without overcomplicating things or pretending you need to become an herbalist overnight.

We talk through teas and infusions, decoctions, tinctures, oil infusions, and salves, when each one makes sense, and how to choose a preparation that you’ll realistically use for your family. This episode is especially helpful if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by herbal recipes or unsure which method to use for which herb.

In this episode, we cover:

Why the way you prepare an herb really matters
Herbal compliance: choosing preparations you’ll actually take
Teas vs. infusions vs. decoctions (and when to use each)
When tinctures are helpful—and when they’re unnecessary
Alcohol vs. glycerin tinctures
Why oil infusions are the foundation of so many herbal remedies
How salves and balms are made (and why they’re great beginner projects)
Common beginner mistakes (like tincturing everything)
How to choose the right preparation based on the herb and the body system you’re supporting

Herbal preparations discussed:

Herbal teas & water infusions
Decoctions for roots and tougher herbs
Tinctures (alcohol & glycerites)
Herbal oil infusions
Salves and balms

Helpful resources mentioned:

How to Brew Herbal Tea: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/how-to-brew-herbal-tea-infusions-and-decoctions/
Herbal Bath Tea: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/bath-tea-with-comfrey/
Body Oil Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/lemon-balm-and-lavender-body-oil/
Lip Balm without Beeswax: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-infused-lip-balm-without-beeswax/
Wound Salve: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wound-salve/
Garlic & Mullein Ear Oil: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/garlic-mullein-herbal-oil/
Calm Heart Tincture: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/heart-tincture/

Ep 178. Growing Herbs for Your Home Apothecary (Even in Small Spaces)

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 04:49:00 -0500

In this episode of Apothecary February, we’re talking through the best herbs to grow for a home apothecary—and where to plant them so they don’t take over your garden. We cover essential garden basics like annual vs. perennial herbs, direct sow vs. starting seeds indoors, and growing herbs in containers versus in the ground. You’ll learn which herbs are beginner-friendly, which ones self-seed or spread aggressively, which can be invasive in North America, and which herbs are often better to buy than grow in small spaces. This episode is a practical, realistic guide to growing medicinal herbs in any size garden, from raised beds to patio containers.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/common-herbs-for-herbal-remedies/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 177. Apothecary February: Home Herbalism without the Overwhelm

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 04:13:00 -0500

In this first episode of Apothecary February, we’re setting realistic expectations for using herbs at home and building a strong, safe foundation for beginner and intermediate herbalists alike. This episode focuses on practical herbal education—without pressure to become an expert or “natural doctor” overnight.

In this episode, we cover:

What Apothecary February is (and what it’s not)
Why herbs are supportive tools, not standalone cures
Buying herbs vs. growing your own (and why both are valid)
Which herbs are best for beginners
Where to buy high-quality herbs online
Wildcrafted vs. organic herbs
Common beginner mistakes when buying herbs
Herbal safety basics and why contraindications matter
How to read herbal books and monographs without overwhelm
Why calendula and chamomile are “gateway herbs”
Different ways to prepare herbs (teas, infusions, tinctures, oils, salves)

Herbs Mentioned

Calendula
Chamomile
Echinacea
Feverfew
Mullein
Nettle
Dandelion

Resources & Links Mentioned

Supplies for Apothecary February: https://www.amazon.com/shop/brittanylgibson/list/2W4977LYCHIZU?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_GEED11EVRXAZ61SSCS4W

Free Calendula Salve Ebook

Learn how to make calendula oil and salve—an easy, beginner-friendly first herbal project.
https://thehomesteadchallenge.kit.com/a9dc7c0be5

Herb Buying Guide: Wild Harvested vs. Organic

A deep dive into sourcing herbs and choosing between wildcrafted and certified organic options.
https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wild-harvested-vs-organic-herbs/

Herbal Safety Basics

Learn how to research herbs, understand contraindications, and use herbs safely at home.
https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-safety-basics/

Beginner Herbal Book List (Being Updated)

A curated list of trusted herbal books for beginners—without the overwhelm.
https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/7-best-books-on-herbalism-for-beginners-without-the-overwhelm/

Spring Gardening Summit (Free Online Event)

A free online summit covering gardening, herbs, fermentation, gut health, and more.
https://thehomesteadchallenge--audreyslittlefarm.thrivecart.com/gsk26-fast-action/679740ca1cb5c/

Recommended Herb Suppliers

Frontier Co-op
Mountain Rose Herbs
Starwest Botanicals

Final Note

This episode is about learning slowly, safely, and realistically. You don’t need to memorize everything, grow all your herbs, or feel perfectly confident to get started. Apothecary February is about building skills and confidence over time—without pressure or fear.

Ep 176. When Winter Drags On… Homestead Projects That Bring Spring Energy Back

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 04:59:00 -0500

Winter can feel long and heavy, and sometimes leaning into “slow and cozy” just isn’t enough. In this episode, we’re talking about simple homesteading projects that bring spring energy into the dead of winter—like organizing seeds, fermenting, making jam from your freezer stash, growing microgreens and herbs indoors, and tackling garden-adjacent projects. These small, hopeful actions help beat the winter blues and remind us that growth doesn’t have to wait for spring.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 175. What I am Planting in the Garden in 2026

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 07:07:07 -0500

In this episode, I'm sharing exactly what I'm planting in the garden in 2026 on my 1/4 acre homestead in the city and why these choices make sense for our real life, space, and season. We talk through what’s staying, what we’re letting go of, and how we’re planning a garden that feels nourishing instead of overwhelming. If you’re craving a more intentional, low-pressure garden plan this year, this one’s for you. 🌱

Sign up for the FREE Spring Gardening Summit: https://thehomesteadchallenge--audreyslittlefarm.thrivecart.com/gsk26-fast-action/679740ca1cb5c/

Ep 174. Why Failure Days are Actually Homesteading Wins

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 04:17:00 -0500

We’re talking about the fail days — and even fail seasons — that come with this lifestyle and why they don’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. From flat sourdough and bitter canned fruit to recipes that just don’t work, we’re sharing why trial and error is actually the point and how learning what fits your family, your taste, and your schedule is where real progress happens. If you’ve been feeling discouraged, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone and that slow, imperfect effort still counts.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 173. Homestead Goal Planning without an Entire Life Overhaul

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 04:31:00 -0500

In this episode, we talk through a slower, more nourishing approach to homestead goal planning. Instead of big overhauls that lead to burnout, we focus on 12-week goals, micro habits, and habit stacking to turn good intentions into systems that actually fit real life. We also walk through a real-life example of how we’re using our word of the year, Nourish, to plan goals that support our families without adding stress.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 172. My Word of the Year is "Nourish" (and What that Actually Means for my Homestead)

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 06:56:23 -0500

In this episode, we’re sharing our word of the year—nourish—and what that actually looks like in real life. Instead of chasing big goals or a “new me,” we’re focusing on supporting our body, home, routines, creativity, and mental load in a slower, more sustainable way. This episode is a gentle reminder that consistency often comes from care, not pressure.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 171. 8 Things to Do Before You Set Homestead Goals for 2026

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:43:12 -0500

Before you start setting garden or homestead goals for the new year, there’s something important to do first: prepare instead of rushing.

In this episode, we talk about the simple things you can do right now to set yourself up for success—without pressure or overwhelm. We cover reflecting on last year, clearing physical and mental clutter, taking inventory of what you already have, deciding your real capacity, and why it’s okay to make a “not this year” list.

I’m also sharing a gentle challenge to help you prepare one area of your home or homestead before you ever write a goal.

Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 170. What 2026 Will Bring for The Homestead Challenge

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 04:18:00 -0500

I’m sharing a quiet end-of-year check-in, reflecting on what worked (and what didn’t) in the past year, and talking through what I’m dreaming up for the year ahead. From reimagining community and challenges to launching a tiny local farm stand, this episode is all about planning gently—without pressure or overwhelm.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

Join the Homestead Challenge Private Facebook Group to vote on challenge names and join the conversation
Sign up for emails at thehomesteadchallenge.com to stay in the loop
Farm Stand Planner (coming soon to Etsy)
Follow along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes updates

Ep 169. What's Actually Worth Planning for the Garden in December (and what can wait)

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:32:50 -0500

Seeing people seed starting in December can make it feel like you’re already behind — especially if you live in a colder growing zone. In this episode, we’re talking about what’s actually worth planning for the garden this time of year, what can wait, and how to figure out your real planting timeline based on where you live (not what the internet is doing).

If you’re a new or intermediate gardener — or just need a gentle reminder to slow down — this episode will help you plan with confidence instead of stress.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

Why December gardening content can feel confusing
The difference between planning season and planting season
Why seed starting in December isn’t necessary for most cold climates
How to find your exact garden zone and last frost date
The seed-starting calculator I personally use every year
What is worth doing for your garden in December
How I batch seed-starting dates to make spring easier
Reflecting on last year’s garden successes and flops
Choosing garden priorities that actually fit your life
Why rest is an important part of the growing season

Helpful Garden Planning Links Mentioned:

Find Your Last Frost Date
Use your ZIP code to find your exact last frost date:
https://www.almanac.com/gardening/frostdates

Seed Starting Date Calculator (My Favorite)
This is the most robust and easiest-to-use calculator I’ve found:
https://www.johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/seed-planting-schedule-calculator.html

Garden Planner + Seed Organizing Binder Inserts
If you like having everything organized in one place, I have both available in my Etsy shop:

https://www.etsy.com/shop/HomesteadChallenge

Join the Community:

Come share your garden plans (or seed-starting photos!) inside our free Facebook community:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 168. A Friday Reset to Get Your Home + Homestead Ready for a Busy Weekend

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 04:42:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re walking through a simple Friday Reset designed specifically for busy December weekends. With holiday activities filling up our schedules, we’re focusing on quick, doable steps that help us lower stress, clear a little space in our homes, and set ourselves up to actually enjoy the magic instead of rushing through it.

We talk about choosing our non-negotiables, doing a fast holiday tidy, prepping food for the weekend, setting up cozy moments like a hot cocoa station, and reconnecting with homestead rhythms—whether that’s grabbing a few herbs from the garden, foraging evergreens, checking the pantry, or doing a quick emergency prep check.

A little bit of intention on Friday can shift the entire tone of the weekend, helping us feel calmer, more present, and ready to savor the parts of December that matter most.

Links Mentioned:
Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Ep 167. DIY Homemade Gifts That People Actually Want

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 04:33:00 -0500

Homemade gifts can be thoughtful and practical — if people actually know how to use them. In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite high-compliance DIY gifts for non-crunchy friends and family, so your handmade presents don’t end up forgotten in the back of a cabinet.

We talk about why most homemade gifts fail (lack of familiarity, unclear instructions, or feeling too “crunchy”) and how to fix that by making your gifts familiar, foolproof, and easy to use in real life. These ideas are perfect for last-minute holiday gifts or any time you want to give something personal without pressure.

🎁 High-Compliance DIY Gift Ideas Covered:

Herb salts (with easy everyday uses)
Homemade vanilla extract (with a local twist)
One-and-done dip mixes
Jam with cream cheese dip instructions
Loose leaf tea paired with a proper tea strainer
DIY herbal bug spray (perfect for families and warm climates)
Shower steamers for people who don’t take baths

If you’re trying to move away from consumerism without giving gifts that feel “weird” or unused, this episode will help you confidently gift homemade items that people genuinely love.

🔗 Helpful Links:

DIY Herbal Bug Spray: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/diy-herbal-bug-spray/
Herb Salt Recipes: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/rosemary-salt/
The Homestead Challenge Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

💛 Join the Community:

Share photos of your homemade gifts and connect with other low-pressure homesteaders in our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 166. If I Were Starting My Homestead Over Today, Here's Exactly What I Would Do

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:15:00 -0500

Five years into my homesteading journey, I’m looking back at what actually worked, what caused burnout, and what I truly wish I had known as a beginner. In this episode, I’m walking you through the exact roadmap I would follow if I were starting completely over today — with less pressure, fewer gadgets, and a whole lot more joy.

This is a gentle, realistic look at modern homesteading for real life — especially if you’re in the city, short on space, time, or energy.

In this episode, we cover:

Why joy should always be your starting point
How trying to learn everything at once leads to burnout
Choosing 1–2 skills at a time to focus on
Building skills before buying tools and equipment
Learning preservation before growing everything yourself
Why consistency beats perfection every time
How social media comparison derails beginners
Homesteading in small spaces without waiting for “someday”
Why the long game creates real sustainability

🌿 Join the Homestead Challenge Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

🏡 Visit the blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 165. What I Learned this Year as a City Homesteader

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 04:32:00 -0500

It’s officially December, and we’re starting our year-end reflection a little early around here. In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we talk honestly about what actually worked on our city homestead this year—and what completely flopped. From simplifying garden projects and freezing tomatoes to sourdough struggles, slow home projects, and a few disappointing garden losses, this is a real-life look at homesteading without the highlight reel.

If you’ve had a year with both wins and messy moments, you’re not alone—and this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:

Why choosing only one big garden project changed everything
How freezing tomatoes instead of canning immediately reduced burnout
A DIY herbal bug spray win that actually worked
Leaning into convenience appliances like the crockpot, bread machine & air fryer
How meal planning around milk & meat delivery simplified grocery shopping
The power of habit stacking (laundry + breakfast)
An incredible herb harvest that’s still producing in December
Why my sourdough starter died twice
Projects that took way longer than expected (hello, brick patio)
Garden disappointments: no pumpkins, no zucchini, small garlic
Why every garden has failures—and that’s normal

This episode is all about realistic homesteading, adjusting expectations, and giving yourself permission to grow slowly and imperfectly.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode here:
[Insert podcast link]

🌿 Find recipes, resources & more at:
https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

🐝 DIY Bug Spray Recipe Mentioned: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/diy-herbal-bug-spray/

💛 Let’s connect:
Instagram: @brittanylgibson
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

What worked for you this year—and what didn’t?

Ep 164. 3 Homestead Things I’m Not Doing This Winter… and 2 That I Definitely Am

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 04:15:00 -0500

Winter is supposed to be the season where everything finally slows down… but for many of us, it quickly becomes another round of pressure to plan next year’s garden, stock the pantry, bake everything from scratch, and add even more to our already full plates. In this episode, I’m sharing the three homesteading tasks I’m not doing this winter so I can actually rest—and the two cozy, meaningful projects I am embracing to stay connected to my homestead in a way that fits my real life.

We’re talking about:

Why I’m not starting every seed in January
How I’m resisting the urge to buy another pantry shelf’s worth of groceries
The kitchen gadgets I’m saying no to (even on Black Friday!)
The herbal products I’m creating with what I dried over the summer
Why winter preserving—like dealing with those freezer tomatoes—actually feels easier

If you’ve felt the pressure to “do all the things” in the winter homestead season, this episode will give you permission to simplify, slow down, and choose what truly matters in your current season of life.

Related Episodes

Ep 159. Pantry Restock The Smart Way: How to Refill without Overwhelm or Overspending

Ep 5: Homestead Confessions: Expensive Kitchen Gadgets I Regret Buying (Don’t waste your money!)

Ep 163. 8 Pantry Staples that Double as Herbal Wellness

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 04:11:00 -0500

If you’ve ever felt like herbalism requires a huge apothecary or a ton of expensive ingredients, this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air. Today, we’re talking about the everyday pantry staples you probably already have on hand that double as powerful herbal wellness tools — perfect for cold and flu season and practical homesteading on a budget.

In this episode, I’m walking through eight simple pantry ingredients that support immunity, digestion, inflammation, stress relief, and overall wellness: ginger, garlic, cinnamon, honey, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, chamomile, and lemon. These are the no-pressure, real-life remedies that modern homesteaders can use daily without buying anything fancy or overwhelming.

Daily Wellness Shot: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wellness-shot/

Garlic Mullein Ear Oil: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/garlic-mullein-herbal-oil/

Subscribe on YouTube

The Homestead Challenge podcast is officially expanding! Search “The Homestead Challenge” on YouTube or click below and hit subscribe so you’ll know when new episodes drop.

https://www.youtube.com/@thehomesteadchallenge

Ep 162. Rethinking Rest this Holiday Season

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 04:16:00 -0500

In today’s episode, we’re talking about rethinking rest during the holiday season and why traditional “relaxation” doesn’t always make us feel restored. If you’re overwhelmed by holiday expectations, juggling motherhood, managing a busy home, or trying to keep up with homesteading tasks while feeling exhausted, this conversation is for you.

After weeks of dealing with a lingering sinus infection, I realized that true rest isn’t always about slowing down, sitting on the couch, or doing nothing. Instead, I discovered that my body and nervous system felt more rested when I prioritized connection, movement, simple accomplishments, and intentional comfort rituals—all things that helped reduce stress more than “relaxing” ever did.

Inside this episode, we explore:

Why holiday overwhelm hits so hard (and why rest feels impossible)
The unexpected thing that finally helped my nervous system reset
How a simple girls’ night helped my body start to heal
Why sitting still can sometimes increase anxiety and mental load
How to find rest through connection (girls’ nights, date nights, family time)
How to feel restored through accomplishment and finishing lingering tasks
What “rest through movement” looks like in real life
Simple sensory comfort ideas to bring peace back into your home
How stress impacts your immune system and overall homestead routine
Practical ways to feel grounded, calm, and prepared going into the holiday season

Whether you’re navigating motherhood, trying to stay consistent with homesteading routines, or just craving a calmer December, you’ll learn how to identify your personal rest style so you can support your mental health, reduce stress, and create a holiday season that actually feels good.

Ep 161. 6 Easy Things to Forage in November

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 04:36:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re talking about what you can still forage in November—even if there’s snow on the ground. I share six easy-to-identify wild foods and herbs like pine needles, rose hips, late-season mushrooms, acorns, crab apples, and black walnuts that can stretch your grocery or medicine budget. Plus, I chat about my failed attempt at extreme couponing and why foraging feels like a much more peaceful (and practical) way to get “free” things from nature this time of year.

Evergreen Recipes https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/evergreen-bath-salts/ https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/simple-winter-evergreen-simmer-pot-recipe/ https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/cedar-face-toner/

Ep 160. 5 Ways to Make Taking Herbs Easier When You're Sick

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 11:20:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re talking about herbal compliance — the simple truth that herbs only work if you actually take them. After being sick all week and realizing she barely used her herbs, Brittany shares five super practical ways to make herbal remedies easier and more convenient to use when you’re not feeling your best. From pre-filling tincture shots to creating a “sick day” herbal basket, this episode is all about setting yourself up for success before cold and flu season hits.

Cold and Flu Tea Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-tea-for-cold-and-flu/

Ep 159. Pantry Restock The Smart Way: How to Refill without Overwhelm or Overspending

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 04:32:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re talking about how to restock your pantry intentionally after the Pantry Challenge so you can avoid waste, overspending, and overwhelm. Brittany shares practical tips for creating a core pantry list that actually fits your family’s needs, restocking slowly on a budget, and organizing for function over perfection. It’s all about building a pantry that supports real life—not one that looks Pinterest-perfect.

Ep 158. Free Up $500 Before Christmas by Shopping Your Pantry

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:17:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re challenging ourselves to free up $500 before Christmas by shopping our pantries instead of the grocery store. We talk about how to take inventory, build meal plans using what we already have, and make it fun with a visual savings tracker. It’s all about using our resources wisely, wasting less, and creating a little extra breathing room before the holidays.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 157. A Day in the Life of a Modern Homesteader: My Real-Life Routine Hour by Hour

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 04:42:00 -0400

Ever wonder how other homesteaders fit it all in? This week, I’m taking you behind the scenes with an honest, hour-by-hour walkthrough of my real daily schedule — chaos, coffee, and all.

In this episode, I’m sharing:
🌿 What my realistic “homestead day” looks like as a stay-at-home mom and city homesteader
🌿 How I use time-blocking (not rigid minute-by-minute planning) to stay grounded
🌿 My honest struggle with comparison and contentment
🌿 How I’ve built homesteading into daily life one small skill at a time

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 156. Fall Energy: When Doing Less Homesteading Actually Gets You Further

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 04:50:00 -0400

In this episode, we talk about what fall really means for us as homesteaders and why it’s okay if we’re not caught up on every project or learning a new skill right now. We compare fall to the luteal phase of a cycle—a time for reflection, slowing down, and preparing for the restful winter ahead. We also explore how winter mirrors the menstrual phase, reminding us that rest doesn’t mean doing nothing—it’s actually the perfect time to learn, dream, and rebuild our energy.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 155. 2025 Homesteading Deals I Would Actually Buy

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 04:47:00 -0400

If you’re feeling tempted by all the Prime Day and early Black Friday sales but aren’t sure what’s actually worth it for your homestead — this one’s for you. I’m taking a quick break from my homestead organization series to share what I’ve been seeing lately in the world of deals and steals, what’s worth adding to your cart, and what can probably wait until next year.

In this episode, I’m talking about some of my favorite brands, the types of products that actually go on sale (and stay good quality), and how to make a wishlist that keeps you from getting sucked into the scroll.

What We Chat About:

Why GreenStalk’s current clearance sale is the best I’ve ever seen
How to tell if a “deal” is really a deal (hint: check regular prices first!)
When to stock up on grow bags, seeds, and raised beds
Power backup systems and what brands to trust
Kitchen tools and cast iron cookware that actually go on sale
How I use wishlist shopping to avoid impulse buys
The one item still on my wishlist — the Presto electric pressure canner

My Best Tips:

Don’t feel pressured to buy everything right now — there will always be another sale.
Sign up for your favorite seed companies’ newsletters to catch those early November discounts.
Create a wishlist before you browse so you don’t get distracted by random “lightning deals.”
Quality over quantity — especially when it comes to garden gear and tools that need to last.

Ep 154. How to Plan (and sometimes delay) Your Homesteading Projects

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 04:07:00 -0400

This week, I’m answering a listener question that so many of us can relate to: How do you plan your homesteading projects? Do you have a calendar?

If you’ve ever bought all the supplies for a new skill—like kombucha brewing or sourdough baking—and then never actually started, this episode is for you. I’m sharing why it’s completely normal to go through different seasons in our homesteading journey and how not everything has to happen at once.

I also talk about how I personally plan and prioritize projects, the simple tools that help me stay organized, and how I find little pockets of time in my busy week (even with kids at home). From embracing the ebb and flow of energy to letting go of perfection, this episode is your reminder that your homestead doesn’t have to look productive all the time to be meaningful.

In this episode, I chat about:

Why unfinished projects are completely normal
How to think seasonally when it comes to learning new skills
The difference between passion projects and habits
Finding small blocks of time to get things done
My favorite planners and simple brain-dump methods
Giving yourself grace to grow slowly and sustainably

Ep 153. Headaches, Tylenol, and My Herbal Protocol

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 04:08:00 -0400

🌿 Mentioned in this episode:

Common root causes of headaches and how to spot them
How to think through OTC pain relievers vs. anti-inflammatories
Our go-to herbal tea blend for headaches
Tincture ideas you can adapt to your own needs

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/the-best-herbal-tea-blend-for-headaches/

Ep 152. What to Do With Raised Bed Dirt After the Season Ends

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 04:32:00 -0400

Fall is officially here, and many of us are looking at our raised beds wondering what comes next. Do we clear them out completely, or let nature do some of the work for us? In this episode, we dive into what really happens to the soil in our raised beds over winter and how we can prevent losing precious inches of dirt like my friend did when her soil dropped five full inches in just a couple of years.

We talk through the natural processes of compaction, decomposition, and erosion, plus the simple steps we can take now to protect and enrich our soil. From leaving roots behind to feed the underground ecosystem, to covering with shredded leaves or mulch, to adding compost before the snow hits — we’ll explore the best ways to “tuck in” our beds for the season. And if you’re in a warmer climate, we share cover crop ideas to keep living roots in the soil all winter long.

By the end, you’ll have practical and low-pressure ways to care for your raised beds this fall, so they’re ready and waiting to grow strong, healthy plants next spring.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why soil levels drop in raised beds over time
The benefits of leaving roots and stems in place
How leaves, mulch, and compost act like a protective blanket
Tips for using cover crops if you live in a mild climate
Simple habits to prevent losing soil year after year

👉 Join the conversation in The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community and share what you’re doing with your raised beds this fall!

Ep 151. Fall Home Decor That's Good Enough to Eat

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 04:52:00 -0400

If you’re anything like us, you probably love cozying up your home for fall—but maybe this year the budget feels a little tighter. Instead of going all out on store-bought décor, we’ve been leaning into using what we already have on hand, what’s growing in our garden, and even what we can forage. It’s a way to keep things festive without overspending, and the best part? Much of our décor can later be enjoyed as food, tea, or long-lasting keepsakes.

In this episode, we chat about:

🌿 Herbs that double as décor while drying—like sage, rosemary, thyme, oregano, chamomile, and feverfew—and how they can be used later in the kitchen or for tea
🎃 How to choose, cure, and store pumpkins, squash, and gourds so they last well past the season
💡 Creative (and frugal) ways to make a little décor go a long way, including swapping out florals for dried arrangements and refreshing spaces with seasonal touches
🍂 Why asters might be a better choice than mums for long-lasting fall color year after year

We want to inspire you to create instead of consume this season—using what you already have, what you can grow, and what you can forage to make your home feel festive and abundant.

✨ Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

Join our Facebook community to share your own natural fall décor ideas

Let’s make this fall beautiful, budget-friendly, and just a little bit “good enough to eat.”

Ep 150. How to Find Wins When Progress Feels Slow

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 04:51:00 -0400

If you’ve ever started a project with big hopes of a quick finish—only to find yourself staring at it weeks later, still not done—you are not alone. In today’s episode, I’m sharing both encouragement and practical steps for what to do when projects drag on longer than you thought they would.

We’ll talk about why this happens (hello, unrealistic expectations 🙋‍♀️), how to reframe your progress so you don’t feel stuck, and the small steps you can take to keep moving forward without burning out. From half-finished patios to delayed canning sessions, this is real-life homesteading, not Instagram reels.

✨ Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:

Why almost every project takes longer than planned
How to pause and reassess instead of spiraling
The power of brain-dumping what’s really left to do
Knowing when to adjust the scope (and stop adding more)
Finding small wins to keep momentum going
Building margin into your timeline so you don’t feel like a failure
How to borrow energy and motivation when you’re running low
Learning the lesson for next time—and releasing the guilt

Even slow progress is still progress. Let’s celebrate the halfway points and the “work in progress” moments instead of waiting for the perfect before-and-after.

👉 Join me inside the Homestead Challenge Facebook Community and share your in progress photos—I’ll be sharing my half-finished patio too!

Ep 149. 7 Simple Homestead Comforts for When the World Feels Heavy

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 04:42:00 -0400

When the world feels heavy—whether it’s the news cycle, social media, or just the weight of everyday life—it’s okay to retreat to the comforts of home. In this short and gentle episode of The Homestead Challenge, I’m sharing 10 simple homesteading rhythms that bring peace without adding to your mental load.

From lighting a simmer pot to harvesting something small, these are easy, no-pressure ways to make your home a haven and help calm your heart when everything else feels overwhelming.

✨ What you’ll hear in this episode:

Why it’s okay to step back from the noise and create sanctuary at home
10 homestead-inspired comforts that bring coziness and calm (without adding stress)
Simple seasonal rituals for grounding yourself as we move into autumn
Permission to take a break, slow down, and choose gentleness

Because sometimes the best way we care for the world is by tending to our own little corner of it.

🌿 Resources + Links Mentioned:

Join The Homestead Challenge Community on Facebook to share your favorite homestead comforts
Explore tea recipes, simmer pot ideas, and more on the blog: @brittanylgibson

If this episode brings you comfort, please consider leaving a 5-star review on your favorite podcast app. Reviews help other kindred spirits find the show—and that encouragement means so much.

Ep 148. Lessons from My Summer Homesteading Mistakes

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 04:06:00 -0400

Even after years of practice, every homesteading season comes with a fresh batch of mistakes—and this summer was no exception. From herbs that went to seed before I could harvest them, to pantry planning flops (hello, way too much Costco flour), I’m sharing the real-life lessons I learned in my garden, kitchen, and rhythms.

In this episode, we talk about:
🌱 The garden mistakes I kept repeating (like skipping succession planting and ignoring pests a little too long)
🍅 Why waiting to preserve food never works in my favor, and how “little by little” preserving keeps things manageable
🏡 The mindset shifts I’m still working on—letting go of perfectionism, planning smarter for pantry staples, and accepting the busy rhythms of summer life with kids
😂 My worst mistake of all: the most disgusting fire cider I’ve ever made (and what I plan to do about it!)

If you’ve ever felt behind in your garden, stared at a pile of produce you didn’t know what to do with, or made a recipe you wish you could forget—this episode is for you. Mistakes aren’t failures—they’re lessons that shape us into better, more realistic homesteaders.

👉 Listen in for encouragement, a few laughs, and practical ideas you can use to avoid the same missteps next season.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 147. All About Apples (Foraging, Picking, and Preserving)

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 10:20:24 -0400

September means apple season, and we’re diving into all the ways to enjoy it. In this episode, we explore foraging for crabapples (and how to tell them apart from hawthorn), heading to the orchard for a family apple-picking trip, and the many ways we can preserve the harvest for the months ahead. From applesauce and apple butter to homemade apple cider vinegar and jelly, we’re talking about how to make the most of this abundant fall fruit.

Whether you’re foraging on your neighborhood sidewalks or hauling home a bushel from a local farm, this episode is packed with ideas to inspire your apple season.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

How to identify and use crabapples (and why they’re so underrated).
Tips for safe and fun apple picking at orchards.
Ways to preserve apples: canning, freezing, dehydrating, and fermenting.
Creative ways to use peels and cores so nothing goes to waste.
Why September feels like its own special season.

Links & Resources

Join The Homestead Challenge Community on Facebook to share your apple recipes.

Ep 146. From Harvest to Holidays: What to Can Now for Stress-Free Hositng

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 04:22:00 -0400

The holidays might feel far away, but this is actually the perfect moment to think ahead. Right now, in the thick of harvest season, you might be tired of tomatoes or over the endless jars of jelly. But what if you could turn that abundance into a few fun preserves that will make holiday hosting (and party season) so much easier later?

In this episode, I’m sharing simple, creative ideas you can make now that future-you will thank you for when it’s time to pull together a cheese board, potluck dish, or festive drink.

We’ll chat about:

✨ Shrubs & herbal syrups for easy cocktails and mocktails
🥒 Pickled veggies & chutneys that dress up any charcuterie board
🍏 Apple butter, pumpkin butter, and pie fillings for instant desserts
🍅 Salsas, sauces, BBQ, and hot sauce for effortless party food
🍗 Pantry staples like broth that keep fall and winter meals stress-free

The best part? You don’t have to do everything. Just one or two jars tucked away will bring that “homemade touch” to gatherings without all the last-minute stress.

👉 Come share your favorite holiday-time preserves in our Homestead Challenge Facebook group — I’ll be posting my favorites there, and I’d love to swap recipes with you.

Ep 145. Simple Back to School Shifts for Homesteading

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 04:56:00 -0400

Back-to-school brings a natural rhythm shift, and on the homestead, that means it’s time to simplify. In this episode, we share the practical ways we’re keeping things easy during this transition—like freezing instead of canning, packing simple lunches, and leaning on streamlined morning routines. We’re also talking about cozying our home for the season, preparing for the inevitable back-to-school germs, and making space for what truly matters right now.

And because mamas need support too, we highlight our brand-new Back-to-School Herbal Tea recipe—a calming blend of tulsi, lemon balm, chamomile, and ginger that helps bring balance during this busy season.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why we’re freezing produce instead of canning right now
Our approach to packing school lunches without the overwhelm
Simple morning routines that actually work
How we’re cozying our home and preparing for seasonal transitions
A sneak peek at our Back-to-School Tea recipe for stressed-out moms

👉 Check out the full recipe here: Back-to-School Tea

Ep 144. What I am Foraging this Autumn (Month by Month)

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:27:50 -0400

This autumn, I’m trading my usual garden harvests for baskets, jars, and a keen eye on what nature has to offer. Inspired by the book Feed Us with Trees by Elspeth Hay, I’ve been thinking differently about the way humans have long partnered with the land — and it’s made me excited to try some new foraging projects this year.

In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, I’m sharing exactly what I’ll be foraging from August through November, along with tips for identification, uses, and timing. Whether you’re brand new to foraging or you’ve been at it for years, this list is full of easy-to-spot plants, herbs, and wild foods you can gather — even if your garden is done for the year.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

The late-summer goldenrod bloom (and how to use it for allergies or décor)
Elderberries, blackberries, and rosehips for immune-boosting winter remedies
Mushrooms like chicken of the woods and chanterelles for the fall kitchen
Acorns, black walnuts, hazelnuts, and chestnuts — from forest snack to flour
Dandelion root and burdock root for liver and detox support
Usnea, the “Old Man’s Beard” lichen, for natural antimicrobial medicine

You don’t have to go deep into the woods to try this — many of these are hiding in plain sight. Grab a basket, step outside, and let’s make the most of what autumn has to offer.

Resources & Links:

Book: Feed Us with Trees by Elspeth Hay
Join the conversation in the Homestead Challenge Community on Facebook
More foraging and seasonal living tips at TheHomesteadChallenge.com

Ep 143. Every Bit Counts- Preserving the Harvest Little by Little in August

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 05:11:00 -0400

In this episode, we're talking about the Every Bit Counts approach to preserving your harvest—without the overwhelm. Whether you're in the thick of garden season or just winding down, there’s so much value in preserving just a small amount every day. Brittany shares what she's preserving in her own kitchen, ideas for saving food scraps and garden extras, and how it all adds up to real savings in time, energy, and money.

From freezing leftover onions and carrots to drying herbs and making single jars of pickles or sauce, this episode is a gentle nudge to take tiny, consistent steps toward building your pantry—no marathon canning days required.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

Why preserving in small amounts can be more sustainable for busy lives
What Brittany is preserving right now from her August garden
Creative ways to save money with everyday food scraps and garden extras
How to freeze, dry, or pickle without a huge time commitment
The mindset shift that helps reduce waste and build your pantry over time

📲 Stay Connected:

Instagram: @brittanylgibson
Facebook Community: The Homestead Challenge Group
Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 142. Harvesting Medicinal Herbs the Right Way: Roots, Leaves, and Flowers

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:23:00 -0400

It's finally harvest season here in Northeast Ohio, and this week, we're diving into how to properly harvest common medicinal herbs—before they lose their potency. If you've ever let your echinacea go too long (guilty!), or stared at your feverfew unsure what part to pick, this episode is for you. Learn which parts of each plant to harvest (roots, flowers, or leaves), when to do it, and how to dry them for later use—without stress or overwhelm.

🌿 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

The difference between aerial parts and roots—and when to harvest each
Why it’s okay to dry herbs now and make medicine later
The best timing for harvesting:
- 🌼 Echinacea
- 🌼 Feverfew
- 🌼 Chamomile
- 🌼 Calendula
- 🌼 Dandelion
- 🌿 Lemon Balm
- 🌿 Yarrow
- 🌿 Plantain
- 🌿 Nettle

📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:

How to Preserve Fresh Herbs
How to Dry and Store Herbs
Join The Homestead Challenge Facebook Group
Follow along on Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Ep 141. July in the Garden: What I'm Harvesting, Planting for Fall, and Letting Go

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 10:43:54 -0400

In this chatty, real-life garden update, I’m sharing what’s actually happening in my July garden—what’s coming out, what I’m planting for the fall, and what I’m choosing to give up (with zero guilt). From bolting basil and pest-eaten squash to rethinking my cut flowers and leaning into crops that actually work for my busy season, this is your honest peek behind the garden gate. If your garden feels chaotic or underwhelming right now, this one’s for you.

🌿 In This Episode, I Talk About:

What I’m harvesting right now (hello, tomatoes + garlic!)
My pest struggles and powdery mildew battles
The “corner of doom” in my garden and how mulch saved it
What I’m planting for a simple, manageable fall garden
Crops I’m letting go of and why (looking at you, overcrowded cucumbers)
How I’m preserving small harvests without stress
A reminder that your garden doesn’t have to be perfect to be productive

📸 Join the Conversation:
What’s your garden looking like right now? Lush and abundant, or patchy and pest-ridden? I want to see it all—post a photo inside The Homestead Challenge Facebook Group and tag me!

📱 Let’s Connect:
Follow me on Instagram: @brittanylgibson
DM me your fall garden plans or podcast episode requests!

💬 Leave a Review:
If this episode encouraged you, share the love with a written review—it helps other homesteaders find the podcast!

Ep 140. How I am Managing Common Garden Pests and Fungus Organically

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 04:35:00 -0400

We’re deep in garden season here in Northeast Ohio, and while things are starting to grow, so are the problems—mainly pests! In this chatty episode, we share what’s been stealing our squash and cucumber flowers (spoiler: we suspect birds and raccoons), plus the low-pressure, organic-friendly methods we’re using to deal with it all. From fencing and fake snakes to garden-safe sprays and a bit of "let-it-go" attitude, we’re doing what we can and letting the rest go. Whether you’re new to pest issues or just curious what’s working for us this year, we hope this episode feels like a garden chat with a friend.

What We Cover:

Why all our squash flowers are mysteriously disappearing
What we’re doing to deter birds, raccoons, and maybe even possums
A few affordable tools we’re trying: fencing, fake snakes, pinwheels, and more
Organic products we actually use (like Captain Jack’s and diatomaceous earth)
How we’re handling fungus and when we just pull plants and move on
Why we’re harvesting tomatoes early this year (and how we freeze our carrots)

Resources Mentioned:

Captain Jack’s Dead Bug
Diatomaceous Earth for Ants
Arber Bio Fungicide
Our Facebook Group: The Homestead Challenge Community

Let’s Chat:
What pests are giving you trouble this year—and how are you dealing with them? Come join the conversation in our free Facebook group!

Ep 139. 7 Things I Always Have in My Prepper Pantry (That I Actually Use)

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 04:12:00 -0400

Feeling overwhelmed by all the prepping videos telling you to stock a bunker full of buckets? Yeah… me too. In this episode, I’m sharing the real-life pantry staples I actually keep on hand—and actually use—to help fight inflation, feed my family, and stay prepared without the stress. From rice and beans to olive oil and condiments, we’re keeping it simple, budget-friendly, and totally doable. You probably already have most of these—and that means you’re more prepared than you think.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 138. Red, White & Bloom: Garden-Inspired Ideas for Your July 4th Party

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:54:00 -0400

Planning a backyard barbecue or garden party this summer? In this episode, I’m sharing easy, no-fuss ways to elevate your July 4th (or any summer) gathering using herbs, flowers, and simple ingredients from your garden—even if your harvest isn’t quite rolling in yet.

Whether you're hosting, heading to a potluck, or just want to add a little beauty to your table, these ideas will help you use what you have in fun, creative ways that spark conversation and joy.

🌿 In this episode:
– Simple ways to infuse drinks with herbs or floral ice cubes
– How to make a fruit salad or charcuterie board extra pretty
– Herbs that help keep bugs away from your patio
– Easy compound butter ideas (bonus points if you shape them!)
– A gentle reminder that even small touches make a big impact

🎧 Listen in and then tag me @brittanylgibson to show off your table setup!

🔗 Links mentioned:
– Red, White & Blue Herbal Iced Teas
– The Homestead Challenge Facebook Group

✨ Take what works, leave the rest—and have a beautiful, garden-fresh summer celebration.

Ep 137. 5 Things I am Loving on the Homestead this Summer

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 04:39:00 -0400

In this laid-back summer episode, I’m sharing a few things that have been making life sweeter lately—from a nostalgic radio habit to a bread machine I never thought I’d love. I talk about letting go of homesteading perfectionism, the iced tea blend I’m drinking on repeat, and why I’m finally embracing my crockpot in the summer. If you're looking for low-pressure inspiration, practical swaps, and a little dose of seasonal joy, this one's for you.

👉 Mentioned in this episode:
• Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver
• My Compact Cuisinart bread machine
• Summer crockpot meals
• My favorite iced herbal tea blend
• Greenstalk planter sale
• …and why I’ve turned the radio back on

🎧 Tune in and get inspired to slow it down this summer—90s-style.

Ep 136. Summer Herbal Uses for Rosemary

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 04:19:00 -0400

Is rosemary just a fall and winter herb? Not anymore. In this episode, we’re exploring all the surprising ways to use rosemary right now—while it’s thriving in the heat and taking over the garden beds.

We talk about:

Why rosemary thrives in summer (and how to grow it better)
What makes rosemary so powerful as an herbal remedy (hello, memory + mood boost)
Everyday ways to use rosemary in the summer—from scalp rinses and herbal oils to bug spray and fire starters
How to preserve rosemary now so you’ll have it ready for fall cooking and winter remedies

Plus, I share some of the rosemary-based DIYs that are already on the blog and a couple new ones going up this week—including rosemary salt and infused oil.

If your rosemary plant is bursting at the seams or you’ve just never known what to do with it in the warmer months, this episode is full of inspiration.

🌿 Resources + Links:

🎧 Listen + Share:
If you enjoy this episode, please leave a 5-star written review! It helps more folks find the podcast—and we’re on a mission to hit 100,000 downloads by fall. 💛

Ep 135. Calm the Heart: Herbs for Stress and Ditching the Pressure

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 04:08:00 -0400

This summer hasn’t felt quite as peaceful as I hoped—and maybe you’re feeling the same. In this episode, I’m opening up about the stress I’ve been feeling lately, even while trying to do all the things to slow down. If you’ve ever felt like natural living was starting to feel more stressful than supportive, this conversation is for you.

We’ll walk through what I call my “ladder of intervention”—a gentle framework I use to decide when to reach for lifestyle changes, herbal support, or something stronger. I’m also sharing my go-to stress tea recipe, the story of how I got off anxiety meds with herbs, and a brand-new tincture recipe that supports your nervous system and your heart.

Links + Resources:

🌿 Make the Calm Heart Tincture:
https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/heart-tincture/

🍵 Get the Stress + Anxiety Herbal Tea Recipe:
https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/best-herbal-tea-recipe-for-anxiety/

📱 DM me on Instagram: @brittanylgibson

If this episode gave you some peace or a fresh perspective, would you share it with a friend who might need it too? Or leave a quick review to help more homesteaders and natural living mamas find the show?

Thanks for being here, friend. We’re in this together. 💛

Ep 134. The Power of Patience in the Garden (and Beyond)

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 15:15:43 -0400

Whether you're staring at empty patches in your garden or waiting for your ferments to finish bubbling, this lifestyle is full of waiting. And in a culture that celebrates overnight success and 30-second videos, that can feel extra hard.

But what if the waiting is actually part of the growth?

In this episode, I'm sharing:

Why waiting is one of the hardest parts of homesteading
How impatience has shown up for me lately (spoiler: I’ve replanted seeds way too early)
Real-life encouragement for those of us in the messy middle of any project
Simple things you can do while you wait that actually move you forward
Why slow success is more satisfying—and sustainable—than quick wins

“Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Whether you're waiting on seeds, sourdough, or just a quieter season in life—this one’s for you.

🧑‍🌾 Come connect!

Say hi on Instagram: @brittanylgibson
Join the community: The Homestead Collective Facebook Group

📣 Leave a review if you loved this episode—it truly helps others find the podcast and keeps this community growing.

Ep 133. This is the Year You Will Start Canning (or stick with it!)

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 04:33:00 -0400

Ready to finally start canning—or actually stick with it this time? This is the year we let go of perfection and start preserving food in a way that’s doable, satisfying, and not totally overwhelming. In this episode, I’m sharing why I started canning, the real reasons you might want to give it a go, and the simplest ways to begin—whether you’re working with homegrown tomatoes or a bucket of u-pick strawberries.

I also talk through some of my biggest canning mistakes (like impulse produce purchases without a plan ), why it helps to prep now before the harvest hits, and the beginner-friendly recipes that I think everyone should try first.

What You’ll Learn:

The real-life reasons to start canning (and why it’s not just about saving money)
What you actually need to get started (hint: not a root cellar or 1,000 jars)
Why planning ahead is the #1 thing that makes canning feel manageable
Easy beginner recipes like jam and tomato sauce—and why small batches count
My favorite tools, tips, and honest lessons learned over the past few years

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ep. 13 – Canning Mistakes I’ve Made So You Don’t Have To
Ep. 91 – The First 10 Things I Ever Canned (and Why)
Canning Tips + Tools I Use
My Amazon Storefront: Canning Favorites

👉 Leave a 5-star written review if this episode was helpful—it means so much and helps others find the show!

Ep 132. Letting Go of Perfectionism in the Garden

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 04:29:00 -0400

If your garden feels a little behind, messy, or flat-out disappointing this year—you are not alone. In this episode of The Homestead Challenge, we’re talking all about releasing perfectionism in the garden so you can enjoy the process, learn as you grow, and stop comparing your reality to picture-perfect plots on Instagram.

Whether your tomato starts failed, your trellis dreams didn’t happen, or you’re still throwing seeds in the dirt a month later than you planned—this is your permission slip to keep going.

🌱 What We Cover in This Episode:

Why even seasoned gardeners have setbacks (spoiler: I might need new tomatoes)
Reframing the idea that there’s a “right way” to garden
Creative ways to use what you have—containers, trellises, and all
When it’s totally okay to buy a few plant starts (even if you wanted to grow from seed!)
The beauty of direct sowing and learning through trial and error
How your garden space—no matter the size—can still nourish your soul

👩‍🌾 Join the Conversation:
Come post your “imperfect” garden wins with us in the Homestead Challenge Facebook Community. It’s a no-pressure space full of encouragement and real-life garden chat.

Ep 131. You Can't Homestead When it Hurts

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 04:53:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re getting real about something that doesn’t get talked about enough: how your physical health impacts your ability to homestead, parent, and keep a household running. We’re not machines—we do this work with our bodies, and when we’re in pain, low-energy, or just plain burnt out, everything feels harder.

That’s why I’m ditching the all-or-nothing intensity of 75 Hard and doing my own version: 10 Weeks Hard. It’s a realistic, flexible challenge focused on consistency and wellness—not aesthetics or perfection. I’m sharing my five personal rules, why they matter, and how you can modify them to fit your own life.

Whether you're thinking about starting something similar or just need a nudge to prioritize your health this season, this episode is for you.

🧡 What We Cover:

Why I’m not doing 75 Hard—but still wanted a challenge
The 10 Weeks Hard rules I’m following
What “real food” actually means to me (hint: it’s flexible!)
Why one workout has to be outdoors
The mindset shift that makes all of this feel empowering, not punishing
How I’m tracking progress and inviting you in

📝 Want to Try This Too?
You don’t have to follow all five rules—just pick one or two that would make you feel better and start there. If you're doing your own version, tag me on Instagram @brittanylgibson or come tell us about it in The Homestead Collective!

Ep 130. FREE and Easy Prepper Tasks to Do in Summer

Fri, 30 May 2025 04:39:00 -0400

☀️ What if prepping didn’t feel overwhelming—or expensive?

In this episode, we’re diving into six completely free ways to boost your preparedness this summer. While fall and winter tend to feel like the “typical” prepping seasons, summer offers its own unique energy: longer days, lighter routines, and a little more breathing room.

I’m sharing practical things you can do right now—without needing to buy a single thing—that will give you more peace of mind at home.

These ideas are perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to be more prepared without falling down a rabbit hole of fear or conspiracy theories. (Not our vibe.)

🌿 What we cover in this episode:

Why summer is secretly a great time for prepping
The power of inventory + decluttering (aka finding the gear you forgot you had)
Fun ways to rotate water and test your emergency supplies
Skills > Stuff: easy activities to practice for self-reliance
Free downloads + printables to help organize your plans
How to loop in your kids and build family safety habits
Community preparedness ideas
Where to actually find free gear

Plus a few of my favorite low-cost summer habits—like garage sale treasure hunting and side-of-the-road scores 🙌

📌 Mentioned in this episode:

🆓 Free Printable: Emergency Prep Checklist
🧺 My Amazon Prepper Favorites Storefront
🧯 Past episodes on prepping:
Ep 75. Prepared for Unrest? How City Homesteading Gives Us an Edge
Ep 71. 6 Ideas for Winter Homestead Preparedness
Ep 68. National Preparedness Month for Normal People
Ep 67. Stop Consuming and Start Learning Preparedness Skills
Ep 62. What a Tree Falling on My House Taught Me About Emergency Preparedness
Ep. 48 How to Have a Prepper Stash Without the Conspiracy
Join the conversation in our Facebook community
📲 Follow me on Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Ep 129. 3 Ways to Simplify Your Homestead Right Now

Tue, 27 May 2025 04:06:00 -0400

If you’re feeling a little stretched thin lately, this episode is for you.

We’re talking about three simple ways to take the pressure off your homestead routines—starting today. These are things we’re doing right now to reclaim a little breathing room while still making progress on the things that matter most.

Whether you’re deep in garden season, juggling family life, or just feeling a bit behind, this episode is your permission slip to make things easier.

In this episode, we cover:

Why “doing less” isn’t giving up—it’s getting smarter
A mindset shift that can simplify everything
The one small change that made a big difference in our weekly rhythm
What we’re letting go of this season (and what we’re focusing on instead)

Links & Resources:

Join The Homestead Collective → Click here
Join the FREE Facebook Community
Follow along on Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Ep 128. Things I Would Do Differently With a Rental House Garden

Fri, 23 May 2025 04:19:00 -0400

Have you ever held off on starting a garden because you were in a rental or temporary living space? In this episode, I’m sharing all the things I wish I had known back when we were in military housing—before we settled into what we think is our forever home.

If you're renting or just feeling unsure about investing in a garden you might not have for long, this episode is for you. From containers that are worth the splurge to mistakes I wouldn’t make again, I’m walking you through how to garden smarter (not harder) when space and time are limited.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

Why I regret building an in-ground raised bed at a rental house
What I’d use instead (hello, galvanized beds + elevated planters!)
My love for grow bags and how they make gardening so flexible
Thoughts on GreenStalks—are they worth it, and when?
What to grow when you can’t grow everything: my "feel rich" picks
Why learning in a rental garden actually helped me long term
How to support your food storage goals even if you can’t grow much

Links & Resources:

Let’s Connect:
Tag me on Instagram @brittanylgibson if you’re gardening in a rental or small space—I’d love to cheer you on and see what you’re growing!

And if you loved this episode, it would mean the world if you left a 5-star written review. Your support helps this podcast reach more like-minded gardeners. 💛

Ep 127. Herbal First Aid for Summer that I Actually Use

Tue, 20 May 2025 04:39:00 -0400

Summer adventures often come with scrapes, bug bites, and garden mishaps, so today we're sharing our real-life herbal first aid remedies that keep our family comfortable and safe all season long. Learn how easy it is to prepare a natural first-aid kit, starting with two must-have items: a powerful wound-healing salve and a gentle but effective bug spray.

Resources Mentioned:

Join The Homestead Collective:

Ready for deeper dives and live workshops? Join us in The Homestead Collective Membership!

Ep 126. Creating a Homestead Summer Bucket List

Fri, 16 May 2025 04:23:00 -0400

Feeling the May rush? Me too! Between preschool graduations and gardening, it's been busy around here. So, to lighten things up, I created a stress-free Summer Homestead Bucket List filled with manageable, fun projects. Join me as I share ideas like growing new tea herbs, frying zucchini blossoms, hosting dreamy garden dinners, crafting citronella candles, and making homemade kombucha.

Plus, I'm diving into the mindset of sustainability over survival—reminding us all that homesteading should be joyful, not stressful. Whether you're an experienced homesteader or just starting out, this episode is sure to inspire a relaxing, fulfilling summer.

Links: The Homestead Collective

Ep 125. 5 Garden Rules I Do Not Follow

Tue, 13 May 2025 04:43:00 -0400

Feeling the late spring overwhelm creeping into your garden season? You're not alone! Between end-of-school chaos, planning summer fun, and diving headfirst into gardening, it's completely normal to feel behind.

In today's episode, I'm sharing the gardening "rules" I joyfully ignore and explain why gardening with flexibility and curiosity often beats chasing perfection. From skipping strict crop rotations to planting earlier than recommended (hello, impatience!), discover how embracing imperfection might just be the secret to enjoying your garden more than ever.

Your garden doesn't have to be picture-perfect to be wonderful. Let’s garden imperfectly together!

Join the conversation:
Head over to our Facebook community (The Homestead Challenge) to share your own garden adventures and see what others are up to.

Happy gardening!

Ep 124. Is it really cheaper to Homestead in the Suburbs?

Fri, 09 May 2025 04:46:00 -0400

We all love the idea of saving money through homesteading—but is it actually cheaper to DIY everything when you live in the city or suburbs? In this episode, we break down the real numbers behind some popular homesteading tasks using actual prices from our area. From making your own butter and yogurt to growing a garden and baking sourdough, we’re taking a close look at what really saves money—and what’s worth doing for other reasons like quality, sustainability, or self-sufficiency.

Spoiler: Sometimes the savings are real—and sometimes, it’s more about the why behind what we do.

Resources Mentioned:

Pantry Stocking Challenge – Free 5-Day Series
Join The Homestead Collective for more support, tools, and no-pressure progress

Ep 123. Seasonal Eating in Spring (What to Eat from the Garden in May)

Tue, 06 May 2025 04:43:00 -0400

Springtime eating often leaves us wondering what's fresh beyond the classic salad—but May has plenty to offer! In today's episode, we're exploring vibrant and delicious ways to enjoy the seasonal produce that May brings to our kitchens.

We'll also dive into some early preserving projects. Plus, we're discussing why now is the ideal time to clear out last year’s pantry and freezer goods, with practical tips and inspiration for deliciously using up your stored harvest.

Resources Mentioned:

How to Make Chive Salt
Chive-Infused Oil Tutorial
Join us on Facebook to share your favorite spring recipes and preserving projects!

Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps others find seasonal inspiration too!

Ep 122. Stress-Free Summer Planning: Balancing Fun, Family & Homesteading

Fri, 02 May 2025 04:57:00 -0400

Summer means longer days, less structure, and more opportunities—but without planning, it can quickly turn overwhelming. In this episode, we share practical tips to create a relaxed, memorable summer without the stress or guilt about unfinished tasks.

You’ll learn:

Why creating a brain dump works better than traditional bucket lists
How to organize your summer activities into two easy categories: Fun (family memories) and Projects (home & homestead tasks)
A simple strategy for designing a family-friendly summer calendar that reduces stress and adds predictability
Easy homestead project planning to stay productive without burnout
Practical dinner solutions for those busy, outdoor-filled days
Quick household routines to keep things functional, peaceful, and manageable throughout the summer

Tune in to simplify your summer plans and focus on what truly matters: fun, family, and a balanced homestead life.

Mentioned in this episode:

The Homestead Collective Membership for more practical resources, accountability, and community support

Connect with Brittany:

Instagram: @brittanylgibson
Website: thehomesteadchallenge.com

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, share, and leave a review—it helps us reach more homesteaders like you!

Ep 121. Living More with Less: Centering Life Around Family with Jillian from Sprouting Arrows

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:57:00 -0400

In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Jillian from Sprouting Arrows to talk about something at the heart of the Homestead Challenge: remembering your why.
Even though our paths look a little different—she homeschools, I don’t; she’s deeply driven by her faith, I have a different approach—we’re both working toward the same goal: creating a life that centers around family, simplicity, and purpose.

Jillian shares her family's journey from living on two incomes (and unknowingly overspending) to thriving on less than $50,000 a year—all while growing closer as a family and living more intentionally. We dive deep into real-world tips for living frugally, finding joy at home, breaking free from consumer culture, and overcoming the pressure to "keep up" with others online or in real life.

Whether you're dreaming of stepping back from the rush, spending more time with your family, or finding ways to live fully without overextending yourself—this conversation will encourage you and show you what’s possible.

What we cover in this episode:

Jillian’s journey to frugal living and her mindset shifts along the way
How living with less has brought more joy, health, and connection to her family
Practical ways to save money without feeling deprived
Homesteading on a tight budget: creative ways to build a garden and make from-scratch living affordable
Managing technology use and building peaceful, present rhythms at home
Handling extracurricular activities in a way that doesn’t overwhelm your family life
Tips for battling comparison—both online and in real life
Why remembering your why makes all the difference when you're tempted to quit

Resources Mentioned:

Brittany: The Homestead Challenge
Jillian: Sprouting Arrows

Enjoyed this episode?
If this conversation encouraged you, take a screenshot and tag us on Instagram!
You can find me at @brittanylgibson and Jillian at @sproutingarrows.

Ep 120. Wild and Useful Backyard Weeds You Can Actually Use this Spring

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 04:57:00 -0400

Spring has officially arrived, and with it… a whole lot of weeds. But what if I told you that some of those wild plants popping up in your yard right now are actually useful herbs?

In this episode of The Homestead Challenge, we’re talking about 8 common backyard “weeds” that show up in early spring—like violets, chickweed, stinging nettle, garlic mustard, and more—and how you can use them safely and simply in your homestead routines.

You’ll learn:

Which backyard weeds are edible or medicinal (and which are invasive)
How to tell them apart from lookalikes without getting overwhelmed
Which herbs are helpful for spring allergies, skin soothing, and more
Why it’s totally okay not to use every single wild plant you find

Whether you’re brand new to foraging or just curious about what’s sprouting near your garden beds, this episode will give you confidence and clarity as you learn what nature is offering right in your own yard.

✨ Mentioned in this episode:

👉 Ready to start noticing what’s growing around you?
Tune in, take a walk with me, and let’s dig into some springtime inspiration.

Ep 119. Progress Over Perfection: A Realistic Approach to Homesteading

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 04:52:00 -0400

Ever feel stuck trying to make your homestead perfect? I've been there! In today's episode, I'm sharing personal stories and practical tips about why embracing progress over perfection can transform your homesteading journey from stressful to joyful.

In this episode, you'll hear:

Why "done" truly is better than "perfect," and how simple tasks (like assembling shelves!) can illustrate this mindset.
How perfectionism often disguises itself as endless research, leading to burnout or inaction.
Real-life examples of how imperfect actions, from gardening to cooking, yield meaningful growth and satisfaction.
Encouragement to embrace the "homemade-ish" approach and why every step forward counts, no matter how small.

Mentioned in this episode:

The Homestead Collective – Join our monthly membership for support, resources, and practical ways to incorporate homesteading skills into your busy life.
The Homestead Challenge Facebook Group – Share your imperfect (and joyful!) homesteading progress with our supportive community.

Remember, your family doesn't need perfection—they just need you to show up. So let's embrace the imperfections and enjoy the journey!

Share your imperfect homesteading wins with us! We’d love to see your progress in the Facebook group.

Ep 118. Containers vs. Raised Beds vs. In-Ground Gardens. Where Should You Plant What?

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 04:59:00 -0400

Deciding where to plant things can feel like a total mystery—especially when Instagram says one thing and your neighbor’s doing another. So let’s talk it through, without the pressure to get it “perfect.”

In this episode, I’m breaking down the pros and practical uses for containers, raised beds, and in-ground gardening—plus how I decide where to put what in my own small-space garden.

We’ll chat:

What to plant in containers (and why peppers love my grow bags!)
The crops that thrive in raised beds (especially if you’ve got heavy soil)
When to give in-ground gardening a go—and how to make it work without fancy gear
Why you have to experiment in your space and not just copy what works for someone else
How I’m planning my garden this year (hint: it’s a mix of whimsy, practicality, and learning as I go)

Whether you’re just getting started or want to make better use of the space you’ve got, this episode will help you feel more confident in choosing what goes where—with plenty of encouragement to try, fail, and try again.

🎧 Listen in and then come share what you’re planting where this year inside our free Homestead Challenge Facebook Group!

✨ Want support, ideas, and encouragement each season? Join The Homestead Collective — our private membership to help you build homesteading rhythms that actually fit your life.

Ep 117. Why Meal Planning is the Foundation of a Busy Homestead

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 04:56:00 -0400

When most people start homesteading, they jump straight to the fun stuff—sourdough, chickens, herbal remedies. But here's the truth:
If your kitchen isn’t in rhythm, everything else feels harder.

In this episode, I’m sharing why meal planning is the foundation of a sustainable, low-stress homestead—especially if you’re busy, in a season of life with limited time, or balancing a million things at once.

🌱 Whether you’re just getting started or trying to finally feel like you’re doing the thing—this episode will help you reset, simplify, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Mentioned in this episode:

👩‍🌾 Join the Meal Plan Momentum challenge (free!) inside our Facebook group
👉 The Homestead Challenge Facebook Group

✨ Want to go deeper and build systems that stick?
Check out The Homestead Collective

Enjoyed this episode?
Please hit subscribe/follow, leave a quick review, and share it with a friend who’s trying to juggle real life and homesteading dreams. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to do it all perfectly to make it work.

Ep 116. Low-Maintenance, High-Reward Plants for the Garden

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 04:02:00 -0400

Tired of babysitting your garden all summer long? In this episode, we’re digging into the real MVPs of the garden—the plants that practically take care of themselves.

I’m sharing a list of weird, wonderful, and wildly easy plants that give you an amazing harvest without demanding much of your time or energy. Whether you're short on bandwidth, just starting out, or simply want to build a more sustainable setup, these low-maintenance picks are for you.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

Learn more about The Homestead Collective: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/collective
Join our free community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 115. The 3 Biggest Mistakes I Made Trying to Do It All on the Homestead

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 04:31:00 -0400

In today’s episode, I’m sharing the three biggest mistakes I made when I first started homesteading in the city—and what finally helped me stop burning out and start building a lifestyle that actually felt good.

Whether you’re just getting started or you've been at this a while, I hope this episode feels like a big exhale. I’ll also walk you through a super simple five-minute mindset shift that can help you refocus this week and let go of what’s not serving you.

Links + Resources:

🌱 Join our free Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
🖨️ Free mindset printable: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/homestead-mindset/
💛 Learn about The Homestead Collective: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/collective/

Let’s Connect:
Send in your episode requests at https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/podcast/

Or come say hi on Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Ep 114. Garden Cues and Habit Stacks: How to Actually Remember to Water Your Plants

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 04:50:00 -0400

Let’s be honest — remembering to water the garden can be really hard when life is full of kids, work, laundry piles, and approximately one zillion other things. In today’s episode, we’re talking about realistic, no-pressure strategies to help you keep your garden alive and thriving without needing a perfect routine.

I’m sharing my favorite habit stacking tricks, visual cues, and time-saving hacks that have helped me stay consistent — even on the busiest days. Whether you’re a tired parent, a working homesteader, or just someone who forgets to water (same), this episode will give you a breath of fresh air and practical ideas you can try this week.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Join The Homestead Collective: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/collective/
Follow along on Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Leave a Review & Share!

If this episode helped you feel less overwhelmed and more empowered in the garden, it would mean so much if you left a review or shared it with a friend who could use a little garden encouragement.

Ep 113. The Secret to Actually Following Through on Your Homestead Plans

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:51:00 -0400

Do you ever start a season full of homestead goals—sourdough, gardening, preserving—and then lose steam halfway through?

You’re not alone.

In this episode, I’m sharing the real reason so many of us struggle to follow through on our homesteading plans, and a simple mindset shift that will help you stay consistent (even when life gets busy). We’ll break down what I call the Accountability Triangle—clarity, support, and consistency—and how those three things can transform your homesteading journey.

💻 Links & Resources:

🔗 Join The Homestead Collective: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/collective/
💬 Come say hi on Instagram → @brittanylgibson
📍Join our free Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 112. Everything You Need to Know About The Homestead Collective (and Why It's Different)

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 04:36:00 -0400

Welcome to The Homestead Collective! In this episode, I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes tour of everything waiting for you inside this supportive, no-pressure homesteading community.

Whether you’re brand new or just want to get oriented, this episode will help you:

🌿 Understand the heart behind The Homestead Collective
📦 Learn what’s included (monthly themes, private podcast episodes, printable tools + more)
✨ Know exactly where to start so you don’t get overwhelmed
💬 Feel connected, encouraged, and ready to take your next step

This isn’t about doing it all. It’s about doing what matters—with the support of a like-minded community beside you.

Links Mentioned:
👉 Watch the private video workshop (available for 3 days only): Get on the Email List at https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/podcast

👉 Join the waitlist for The Homestead Collective: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/collective

👉 Follow me on Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Ep 111. 2 Things I am Focusing on Right Now on my Homestead to Move the Needle the Most

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 04:52:00 -0400

Spring is here, and if you’re feeling pulled in too many directions on your homestead — you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m sharing the two areas I’m focusing on right now and how I’m narrowing in on what actually matters most (even when I really want to do it all).

I’ll also tell you about an exclusive 30-minute workshop I’m hosting this week to help you do the same! This private workshop will help you:
✅ Cut the overwhelm
✅ Get super clear on your next 30-day priorities
✅ Build a simple plan that moves the needle toward your goals

Whether your focus is seed starting, baby chicks, preserving food, or something completely different — this method works for homesteaders of any size and stage.

🎉 The workshop will be available Friday through Sunday ONLY, exclusively for my email list and private Facebook community!

👉 Make sure you’re on the list so you don’t miss out: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/podcast

In this episode, I chat about:
🌱 Why I’m focusing on seed starting (even though I’m still figuring it out!)
🥫 How I’m tackling last year’s preserves and what I’ve learned for future canning
📓 A sneak peek at my new preservation calendar (coming soon to Homestead Collective members!)
📝 How to start building your own focus plan for the season

✨ Join our growing Facebook community here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Let’s connect:
Instagram: @brittanylgibson
Visit the blog: thehomesteadchallenge.com

If this episode helps you feel more focused, share it with a friend who could use a little homestead clarity, too!

Ep 110. Why So Many Are Leaving the Homesteading Grind- And What I'm Doing Instead

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 04:49:00 -0400

These days, more and more people are quietly stepping back from homesteading — selling off animals, downsizing, or giving up entirely. After reading an article on the Guardian called “Why I Quit My Homestead Dream Just as Farmer Tradwives Became Mainstream,” I knew I had to sit down and talk about this growing trend… and why I’m determined to do things differently.

In this episode, I’m sharing my honest thoughts on homesteading burnout, the pressure to do it all, and how I believe we can build a homestead life that feels balanced, nourishing, and sustainable — without losing our modern freedoms or joy.

If you’ve ever felt like homesteading was becoming just another heavy checklist — this episode is for you.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear:
🌱 Why so many homesteaders are burning out or stepping back
🌱 How social media has changed the way we view homesteading
🌱 Why community and consistency matter more than perfection
🌱 What I’m doing differently — and how you can too
🌱 A sneak peek inside The Homestead Collective — coming April 1st!

✨ Links & Resources:
👉 Join The Homestead Collective Waitlist https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist

👉 Join our free Facebook community: The Homestead Challenge Facebook Group
👉 Leave me a voice message for the podcast: thehomesteadchallenge.com/podcast
👉 Connect with me on Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Ep 109. 10 Things You Can Do Today to Set Your Garden Up for Success (Even If It’s Still Cold Out)

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:28:00 -0400

Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of garden season? In this episode, I’m sharing 10 things you can do right now—even if it’s still cold and gloomy—to set your garden up for success and avoid that last-minute spring scramble. I’ve learned from experience that waiting until the weather is nice is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with simple, practical steps that will make your gardening life so much easier this year.

Thanks for being here, friend. 💕Brittany

Leave me a Voice Message or Question >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/podcast/

Join the FREE 5 Day Pantry Challenge >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/

Join the waitlist for The Homestead Collective >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist/

Ep 108. What No One Tells You About Homesteading (The Hardest Part)

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 04:43:00 -0400

Ever felt like you're trying to figure out homesteading all by yourself? You're not alone—and more importantly, you're not supposed to be. In this episode, we're talking about something crucial but often overlooked in homesteading: the power of community.

I'll share:

Why trying to do it all on your own can hold you back
Practical ways local community connections can transform your homesteading journey
How online communities offer instant support, inspiration, and a feeling of belonging

We'll dive deep into how finding your community—whether in person or online—can truly change your homesteading experience. It's time to trade isolation for connection, frustration for encouragement, and overwhelm for practical support.

Resources:

Loving my content? Buy me a coffee ☕☕☕ >>> https://buymeacoffee.com/brittanylgibson

Join the FREE 5 Day Pantry Challenge >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/

Join the waitlist for The Homestead Collective >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist/

Let's Connect! I'd love to hear about your homesteading journey—have you ever felt like you were doing this alone? DM me on Instagram (@brittanylgibson) or reply to my email newsletter. Remember, you weren't meant to homestead alone—and together, we'll build thriving, supportive communities that help us grow.

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who needs to hear it!

Ep 107. 7 Signs You're on the Edge of Homestead Burnout (and How to Stop It)

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 04:34:00 -0400

Homesteading should feel joyful, not exhausting—but let’s be real, the pressure to “do it all” can be overwhelming. If you’ve ever felt like your to-do list is never-ending, or that you’re falling behind, this episode is for you! Today, I’m sharing 6 simple shifts to help you reset, refocus, and keep homesteading sustainable and fulfilling (without guilt or burnout).

If you’re feeling stretched too thin or worried you can’t keep up, this episode will give you practical, low-pressure solutions to make homesteading work for you.

Thanks for being here, friend. 💕Brittany

Loving my content? Buy me a coffee ☕☕☕ >>> https://buymeacoffee.com/brittanylgibson

Join the FREE 5 Day Pantry Challenge >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/

Join the waitlist for The Homestead Collective >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist/

Ep 106. 7 Homesteading Tasks to Do Before Garden Season that Take 10 Minutes or Less

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:48:00 -0500

Spring is right around the corner, and before the busy garden season kicks in, now is the perfect time to tackle a few quick and easy homesteading tasks that will set you up for success. In this episode, I’m sharing seven simple things you can do in 10 minutes or less to make sure your home, kitchen, and garden are ready for the months ahead.

From organizing your canning supplies to stocking your freezer with easy meals, these small but mighty tasks will help you feel prepared and stress-free when planting season arrives.

Thanks for being here, friend. 💕Brittany

Loving my content? Buy me a coffee ☕☕☕ >>> https://buymeacoffee.com/brittanylgibson

Join the FREE 5 Day Pantry Challenge >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/

Join the waitlist for The Homestead Collective >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist/

Ep 105. Low-Tox Living without the Overwhelm: No Pressure Homesteading in a Real World

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 04:24:00 -0500

Feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to do it all when it comes to homesteading, low-tox living, and making healthier choices for your home? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re talking about realistic homesteading—how to prioritize what truly matters for your family while letting go of perfection.

👉 Why low-tox living doesn’t have to be all or nothing
👉 The truth about budget-friendly homesteading and accessibility
👉 Practical ways to reduce toxins in your home, food, and garden
👉 The problem with perfection culture in the natural living space
👉 Encouragement to focus on progress, not perfection

If you’ve ever felt like you’re not “homesteading hard enough,” this episode is your reminder that small changes matter. Whether you’re pressure canning homegrown produce, swapping out artificial fragrances, or just doing your best to feed your family healthier meals, you’re making a difference.

Starting with Non-toxic cleaners: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/all-natural-cleaning-supplies/

Eat Organic on a budget: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/healthy-budget-friendly-grocery-haul/

Thanks for being here, friend. 💕Brittany

Loving my content? Buy me a coffee ☕☕☕ >>> https://buymeacoffee.com/brittanylgibson

Join the FREE 5 Day Pantry Challenge >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/

Join the waitlist for The Homestead Collective >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist/

Ep 104. All of the Herbs I am Planting this Year and How I Use Them

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 04:19:00 -0500

If winter has you itching to get your hands in the dirt but the weather isn’t cooperating, this episode is for you! Today, I’m sharing what herbs I’m growing this year and how I actually use them (for teas, tinctures, and skincare!). Plus, we’re chatting about where to buy high-quality herb seeds, which herbs not to plant unless you want them taking over your garden (looking at you, mint!), and why you don’t need to stress about GMO seeds.

📢 Resources Mentioned:
🔗 Join The Homestead Collective waitlist → https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist

🔗 Herb Buying Guide-> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wild-harvested-vs-organic-herbs/

🔗 Comfrey Bath Tea-> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/bath-tea-with-comfrey/

Ep 103. How to Use ChatGPT to Enhance Your Homestead

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 04:47:00 -0500

Get the Prompts -> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/chatgpt-for-your-homestead/

AI on a homestead? Yep, we’re going there! In this episode, I’m breaking down how tools like ChatGPT can actually support your homesteading journey—without replacing the heart and soul of it. Whether you’re looking for creative homestead name ideas, garden planning tips, or even a way to organize your endless to-do list, AI can help streamline the process so you can spend more time doing and less time researching.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🌿 How to use ChatGPT to name your homestead (because it's fun!)
📋 How AI can help organize your thoughts and homesteading projects
🥕 Using AI for garden planning, pest control, and companion planting
🥫 Food preservation tips and how AI can help you make quick decisions
💰 How AI can support homestead businesses with marketing and content creation
🛑 The biggest AI mistakes to avoid (because fact-checking is key!)

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the information out there, this episode will show you how to use AI as a tool—not a replacement—for the skills and wisdom that make homesteading so special.

Thanks for being here, friend. 💕Brittany

Loving my content? Buy me a coffee ☕☕☕ >>> https://buymeacoffee.com/brittanylgibson

Join the FREE 5 Day Pantry Challenge >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/

Join the waitlist for The Homestead Collective >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist/

Ep 102. Don't Fear the Funk. A Beginner's Guide to Fermenting Vegetables

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 04:50:00 -0500

Fermenting your own food sounds intimidating—but trust me, it’s way easier than you think! In this episode, I’m breaking down the simple steps to get started with fermentation, even if you’ve never done it before. We’ll start with the easiest, most foolproof ferment (hello, sauerkraut!), move on to pickles (because you already know what they should taste like!), and then dive into some fun experiments like spicy jalapeños and fermented carrots. Plus, I’ll share some common fermentation mistakes and how to avoid them so you can feel confident in your fermenting journey.

Thanks for being here, friend. 💕Brittany

Fermenting Supplies

Sauerkraut Recipe

Loving my content? Buy me a coffee ☕☕☕ >>> https://buymeacoffee.com/brittanylgibson

Join the FREE 5 Day Pantry Challenge >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/

💡 Want to learn more homesteading skills with a like-minded community?
Join the waitlist for The Homestead Collective! This private space is all about practical homesteading, food preservation, and sustainable living—without the pressure of doing it all perfectly. Sign up here → https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist/

Ep 101: From Chaos to Calm. The Emotional Side of Your Kitchen and Pantry

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 04:19:00 -0500

Is your kitchen stressing you out? A cluttered pantry, messy counters, and the dreaded “What’s for dinner?” question can make cooking feel like a chore. But small changes can have a big impact!

In this episode, I’m sharing 5 simple, actionable steps to create a kitchen that feels calm, functional, and ready for real-life homesteading. These quick fixes take less than 10 minutes each but will help you:
✔ Reduce kitchen stress and decision fatigue
✔ Make meal prep easier (without overcomplicating it)
✔ Create a pantry that actually works for you

Ready for a deeper pantry refresh?

Join my FREE 5-Day Stock Your Kitchen Pantry Challenge! In just a few days, you’ll go from an unorganized, frustrating pantry to a well-stocked, practical system that saves time and money.

💡 Sign up here: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry

Want even more homesteading support? Get on the waitlist for The Homestead Collective, my private community for practical, no-pressure homesteading.

📩 Join the waitlist: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist

✨ Let’s turn your homestead into a place of ease, not overwhelm!

Ep 100. 5 Ways to Incorporate a Farm Chore Routine in the City

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 04:21:00 -0500

The Homestead Collective Waitlist -> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist

There’s something about having a farm that forces you into a routine. You wake up, you go outside, you move your body, and you take care of something that depends on you. It’s an ancestral rhythm that feels so… right.

But in the city (or even just modern life), it’s way too easy to roll out of bed, grab your phone, and stay inside all morning. Especially in the winter (guilty ✋).

That’s why I recorded this new episode—so we can bring that fulfilling, farm-style routine into our everyday lives.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through practical ways to create a morning routine that gets you outside, moving, and connected to nature—even if you don’t have land or animals to tend to. (Because you don’t need a farm to live like a homesteader.)

Ep 99. Mindset Shift- Homestead Anywhere, at Any Scale

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 04:16:00 -0500

Have you ever felt like homesteading just isn’t an option for you? Maybe you don’t have acres of land, a big garden, or endless free time. Maybe you’re wondering:

➡ Where do I even start?
➡ Can I really homestead in a small space?
➡ Do I have to do everything from scratch to call myself a homesteader?

If any of that sounds familiar, I’ve got something for you. 🎙️

Here’s what you’ll learn:

✔ What homesteading actually means today (hint: it’s not just for people with farms)
✔ The biggest myths holding you back from self-sufficiency
✔ How to start homesteading no matter your space or situation
✔ Quick, actionable steps to shift your mindset and start seeing progress

Homesteading doesn’t have to be all or nothing. It’s about small, sustainable steps that make a difference. Let’s do this together.

Join the Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 98. Bio-Hacking and Natural Wellness with Brooke from Wellness Farm Chat

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 04:25:00 -0500

Are you jumping on the bio-hacking bandwagon?

What is bio-hacking? Biohacking is the practice of making small, intentional lifestyle changes to optimize physical and mental performance. It often includes techniques like sauna therapy, cold plunges, targeted nutrition, and detox protocols to enhance well-being and longevity.

Brooke of the Wellness Farm Chat podcast and I had a great conversation about all the bio-hacks we tried and came to a conclusion on our favorites that actually work!

Join the Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ep 97. The Benefits and Uses for Oregano Infused Oil

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 04:44:00 -0500

We are sick. Like, major flu vibes over here. There are a few things I am doing (both naturally AND not) to help!

Using oregano oil is one! I am talking about an oregano-infused olive oil here, not the essential oil. On today's episode I briefly go over oregano's properties and how to use this simple oil at home for some respiratory support.

Listen now to learn about all of the benefits of oregano oil!

TAKE THE SURVEY- https://bit.ly/homesteadaudience

Join the Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Get on the email list- https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/freebie-library-opt-in/

Ep 96. Changing Your Money Mindset with Krista from Money Mindful Moms

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 04:18:00 -0500

I've never talked about this before. MONEY. Gah. The subject can be so taboo. But here's the thing. Finances are SO very entwined into our values as homesteaders that I wanted to talk about it.

Whether you are trying to quit your 9-5 to stay home... Buy the acreage you've always dreamed of... Get out of debt so you can finally buy that truck load of soil that your garden so desperately needs... Aligning our finances with our homestead goals can push them forward in the BIGGEST way.

If you're a mom, you can be constantly pushed in all directions when it comes to money mindset (#momguilt, amiright?). In today's episode, I got to chat with Krista of the Money Mindful Moms podcast about starting to get your finances together in a way that actually fits into your life, whatever that looks like for YOU.

I hope you learned something new and feel inspired to start your debt free journey, save more, and worry less. Don't forget to check out The Money Mindful Moms podcast wherever you listen to this show and check out the Money Mindful Moms Club.

Ep 95. Walking Through My Day of Non-Toxic and Nutritious Swaps

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 04:14:00 -0500

I always think it is SO interesting to see what people are actually doing in their daily lives. I decided I would walk you through my day and share all of the non-toxic and nutritious swaps that I've made in my daily life as I am on this natural-living / homesteading journey.

Listen now to hear all about my morning routine, skincare routine, and more!

Join the Facebook Community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Amazon Storefront -> https://www.amazon.com/shop/brittanylgibson/list/1T2QI6J5UNEXK?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_BM6W31VXP9YVAGW4YQ2S_1

Dropps-> https://share.dropps.com/brittany58

Who Gives a Crap -> https://whogivesacrap.mention-me.com/m/ol/ri0mv-brittany-gibson

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 94. Beginners Guide to Indoor Seed Starting with Rachael from Our Handcrafted Home

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 04:51:00 -0500

I had the privilege to chat with Rachael of Our Handcrafted Home all about seed starting on the podcast this week. I made a TON of mistakes last year and I wanted to make sure to get this info out so you don't make all the same mistakes I did. I hope you learn something new and feel inspired to start some seeds indoors this year in order to extend your garden season. Don't forget to check out Rachael's Guide to Seed Starting over on her blog.

Check out https://ourhandcraftedhome.com/ for more!

Ep 93. Why I Use Herbs Instead of Essential Oils

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 04:17:00 -0500

There is a major difference between using essential oils and using whole herbs. While they both have their place, there are reasons I use whole herbs 99% of the time. Today I want to explore the differences to help enhance your herbal safety knowledge.

Join the Facebook Community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Grab all my freebies -> https://bit.ly/homesteadfreebies

Ep 92. Herbal Safety Basics: How to Research and Vet Herbs for Your Family

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 04:39:00 -0500

Let's explore herbal safety basics for your family’s natural wellness journey. Learn how to research and vet herbs effectively, avoid AI-written or poorly sourced books, and discover the best places to buy herbs. I’ll also cover child dosage guidelines, highlight essential drug interaction cautions, and share tips on integrating herbal remedies into a non-toxic lifestyle without sacrificing modern medicine. Don’t miss this foundational guide to confident herbalism for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike!

Links Mentioned:

Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

#1 Mistake I Made When Starting Herbal Tinctures: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/alcohol-for-herbal-tinctures/

Herb Buying Guide: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wild-harvested-vs-organic-herbs/

Books for Beginner Herbalists: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/7-best-books-on-herbalism-for-beginners-without-the-overwhelm/

Herbs for Kids: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbs-for-kids/

Herbal Supplies: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/gifts-for-beginner-herbalists/

Ep 91. The First 10 Things I Ever Canned

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 04:47:00 -0500

Canning is on everyone’s mind this year, especially after so many of you scored new canners for Christmas. In this episode, I share my early canning (both water bath canning and pressure canning) experiences and the 10 first things I ever canned—plus some helpful tips to get you started on your own preserving journey. Whether you are an experienced canner or you are adding it to your homestead goals this year, I hope this episode helps!

Be sure to listen to Ep 13: 5 Canning Mistakes I Made So You Don’t Have To

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Ep 90. How to Make Goals for Your First Year Homesteading

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 21:31:00 -0500

Whether it's your first year or your 50th year homesteading, setting goals can be a helpful way to make sure you DO THE THING! Reflect with me on the goals I made my first year homesteading and learn how I made those goals a reality (for the most part).

Goal Planner

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Ep 89. Top 10 Predictions for Homesteading Trends in 2025

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 04:45:00 -0500

While homesteading is always trending in my book, and also intrinsically about not following trends, I thought it would be fun to explore the top homesteading trends for 2025! Check out my predictions! Let me know your thoughts in the Facebook Community!

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Ep 88. Harvesting Lessons and Growing Forward for a BIGGER 2025

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 04:41:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re looking back at 2024 to see what “fruit” we gathered + seeds sown, celebrating the progress—big or small—that shaped our homesteads and our lives. Then, we dive into choosing a Word of the Year to guide us through 2025.

Listen in and let’s cultivate a “bigger,” more meaningful homestead life this year!

Join our Facebook community ->www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

Check out the Freebie library-> https://bit.ly/homesteadfreebies

Ep 87. My Sourdough Starter and Other Things I am Leaving Behind in 2024

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 04:26:00 -0500

Welcome to The Homestead Challenge! In this episode, I’m sharing all the things I’m letting go of in 2024—starting with my sourdough starter (yep, it’s time to admit I’m not using it!).

Links & Resources Mentioned

Freebie Library: https://bit.ly/homesteadfreebies
Connect With Me on Social Media: @brittanylgibson

Thank You for Listening!
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a review. It really helps The Homestead Challenge reach more folks who want to live a simpler, more self-sufficient life.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 86. 9 Ways to Prepare Your Home The Weekend Before Christmas

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 04:32:00 -0500

The holidays are magical, but they can also catch us off guard! In this episode, I’m sharing my top tips for stress-free holiday home preparedness, all with a no-pressure homesteading twist. Whether you’re dealing with unexpected guests, last-minute host gifts, or the frenzy of Christmas morning, this episode has you covered.

Get practical, low-stress solutions to handle holiday surprises with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—making memories.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 85. 5 Best Herbal Gifts to Give to People Who Aren’t That Crunchy

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 04:09:00 -0500

Sometimes we forget that everyone might not want to live the same non-toxic, crunchy lifestyle we live (and that's okay!). But you might be itching to make some herbal gifts or need something last minute. These 5 ideas are something even the non-crunchy folk will enjoy (at least I think!).

LINKS MENTIONED

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/chamomile-bath-salts/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/evergreen-bath-salts/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-infused-lip-balm-without-beeswax/

Sign up for my email list to get your Free Herbal Salve E-Book (with the calendula salve recipe): https://thehomesteadchallenge.kit.com/a9dc7c0be5

Ep 84. Best and Worst Amazon Garden Buys of 2024

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 04:29:00 -0500

Check out my Storefront for all GARDEN products mentioned >>> https://amzn.to/3ZRT64U

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please visit my privacy + disclosure page for more details.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 83. The Best and Worst Amazon Kitchen Buys of 2024

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 04:43:00 -0500

Check out my Storefront for all kitchen products mentioned >>> https://amzn.to/3OKhRd4

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please visit my privacy + disclosure page for more details.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 82. How to Have a More Sustainable Holiday on the Homestead

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 04:20:00 -0500

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of a "sustainable Christmas," you're not alone. The truth is, creating a sustainable holiday isn't about perfection—it's about making small, meaningful choices that add up to big impact over time (and the MINDET that allows all those things to happen).

Get your copy of BOTANICAL ANTHOLOGY now From November 25 – December 10, grab the Winter edition digital download plus bonus e-books (All About Turmeric + Herbal Cookie Tray and Herbal Advent Calendar) for just $16. The price will go UP after 12/10!

Prefer a physical copy? Order the print version on Amazon for $26. Just email me for all the details to get your free e-books if you order the print copy!

brittany@thehomesteadchallenge.com

@brittanylgibson

Ep 81. 5 Ways to Make Homesteading Easier in Winter

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 04:05:00 -0500

Winter homesteading can be HARD. But there are a few ways to easily incorporate homesteading principles into your home to further your personal goals.

Prefer a physical copy? Order the print version on Amazon for $26. Just email me for all the details to get your free e-books if you order the print copy!

brittany@thehomesteadchallenge.com

@brittanylgibson

Ep 80. Gratitude for the Harvest: What This Year's Garden Taught Me

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 04:47:00 -0500

Prefer a physical copy? Order the print version on Amazon for $26. Just email me for all the details to get your free e-books if you order the print copy!

brittany@thehomesteadchallenge.com

@brittanylgibson

Ep 79. Raking Leaves: The Good, Better, and Best of Balancing Practical, Pretty, and Pollinators

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 04:51:00 -0500

To rake, or not to rake? Balancing a pretty lawn with saving the pollinators can be tricky, but I think you can have the best of both!

Links Mentioned:

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The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 78. Seven Wellness Products I am Loving Right Now

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 04:32:00 -0500

Oooo these are a few of my favorite things! While I will always recommend making items for wellness first, sometimes it is nice to treat yourself. You can't pour into your homestead from an empty cup!

Join the Email List ->

PRODUCTS MENTIONED

👉Get AG1 here and get a year's supply of Vitamin D3+K2 and 5 free travel packs with your order.
Zarbee's Baby Grape Cough Syrup
Primally Pure Body Care Primally Pure (get $10 off!)
Faithful Family Farmer Lymphatic Salve
LMNT
Red light therapy
Kindle Oasis

Ep 77 Good, Better, Best: Choosing the Right Non-Toxic Home Fragrance FOR YOU

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 04:47:00 -0500

Choosing the right non-toxic fragrance for your home is confusing! I hope to simply the decision for you so you can make your own choice about candles and fragrances in your home!

Links Mentioned:

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The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 76. The Results Don't Matter. How to Remain Home-Steady during an Election

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 04:14:00 -0500

The Homestead Challenge is aimed at helping you remain home-steady in these weird times. I hope you find peace in remaining home-steady.

Links Mentioned:

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Ep 75. Prepared for Unrest? How City Homesteading Gives Us an Edge

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 04:55:00 -0400

Today I'm exploring how city homesteaders have a unique advantage when preparing for potential civil or economic unrest (whether you think that is really going to happen or not). From food preservation and sustainable gardening to practical resourcefulness and mindful homemaking, city homesteading fosters self-sufficiency, resilience, and adaptability—even without large land or livestock. Tune in to discover essential preparedness skills that every urban homesteader can rely on, and learn how to create a more secure, calm, and resourceful lifestyle in uncertain times. Whether you’re in a small apartment or suburban home, this episode is packed with insights for staying prepared in the modern world.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/podcast-launch/

Ep 74. Holiday Homemaking- 10 Things I am Saying YES to this Holiday Season

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 04:50:00 -0400

I’m sharing all the things I’m intentionally saying YES to this year—from accepting help to creating cozy moments.

This season can feel like a whirlwind of parties, hosting, and endless to-dos, but I’m here to remind you that it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode, I’ll show you how a few simple “yeses” (wowza that is a weird word) can make your holiday season on the homestead more meaningful and stress-free.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

Ep 73. Homesteading Q&As from a City Homesteader

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 04:49:00 -0400

I asked your burning homesteading questions on Instagram and in our Facebook group, and today I am sharing the answers! If you want in on the next Q&A be sure to DM me any questions you have!

Saurkraut Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/homemade-sauerkraut-learn-to-ferment-from-a-total-newbie-i-promise-its-not-that-scary/

Herbalism Supplies: https://www.amazon.com/shop/brittanylgibson/list/GO7KI2IV86OD?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_P759C43CHW52S5JJ5PX2

Common Bath Bomb Mistakes: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/common-bath-bomb-mistakes/

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Ep 72. Homesteading for Busy People: 5 Steps to Do It All Without Losing Your Mind

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 04:51:00 -0400

No matter how much we try to slow down, this busy modern world catches up to us quickly. Today, I wanted to give encouragement to those who really feel the bustle (and not the good hustle). I truly believe you can have the homestead of your dreams if you follow these steps. Homesteading for busy people is possible, you might just have to change a few things and do the work.

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Ep 71. 6 Ideas for Winter Homestead Preparedness

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 04:33:00 -0400

Preparedness is still on the mind as we are squirreling away the harvest for winter. There are a few cheap and easy ways to prepare for the months ahead so that your home is ready for winter and you can enjoy the cozy winter vibes without worry.

Be sure to come join our Facebook group and send me your questions for an upcoming Q&A episode! ->>> https://www.facebook.com/share/g/dfaUvLkbxDnC1uon/

Ep 70. Autumn Foraging for Black Walnuts

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 06:12:14 -0400

Emergency preparedness is not only a hot topic, but it seems as though it might actually be necessary. For me, learning skills and foraging is a cheap and amazing way to feel prepared in a peaceful way. With the stress of the world, foraging can bring so much peace, and the skills you learn along the way may just come in handy someday! Autumn foraging is fun as you get to be in nature as the leaves begin to change, and the black walnuts begin to fall. Black walnuts are super easy to forage and can be a powerful tool in your home herbal medicine kit.

Links Mentioned:

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Ep 69. What is The Homestead Challenge? An Insight Into Homestead Blogging

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 04:30:00 -0400

The Homestead Challenge has been around for 4 years now (wow!). It started out as a blog and has grown into this amazing podcast community. Thank you to everyone who listens and who is sharing your own homestead challenges with us along the way. I truly don't think I would challenge myself to keep doing the thing THIS long if it weren't for you.

Links Mentioned:

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68. National Preparedness Month for Normal People

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 04:51:00 -0400

September is National Preparedness Month, and with it being an election year, preparedness seems to be all the rage! However, I am not into all of that doomsday stuff. What about when your kid gets a boo-boo at the park? Are you prepared for that? In this episode, I share the first place I started prepping and what I have on hand for everyday issues.

My Favorite Prepper Gear on Amazon ->

https://www.amazon.com/shop/brittanylgibson/list/3RTQ45EMYE85Z?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfbrittanylgibson_BYCRP17AKDDR14P9Q6D9

The #1 Mistake I Made When Making Tinctures -> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/alcohol-for-herbal-tinctures/

Ep 67. Stop Consuming and Start Learning Preparedness Skills

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 04:43:00 -0400

As we enter fall, I am deeply convicted to get away from consuming and start using what I have... stewarding all that I've been given... and learning all that I can learn. Preparedness doesn't have to mean buying a ton of things. There is so much we can do and learn to be good stewards of our stuff.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please visit my privacy + disclosure page for more details.

Digital Botanical Anthology -> https://bit.ly/THCBADigital

Physical Copy Botanical Anthology -> https://amzn.to/4dPRRIm

Ep 66. How to Actually Start Using the Herbs you’ve Gathered

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 04:57:00 -0400

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please visit my privacy + disclosure page for more details.

Digital Botanical Anthology -> https://bit.ly/THCBADigital

Physical Copy Botanical Anthology -> https://amzn.to/4dPRRIm

Ep 65. Getting the Homestead Ready for Fall

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 21:46:00 -0400

There are a few things you can do on the homestead to get ready for the fall season. This is my favorite time of year, so there are a few things I am incorporating into my regular routine in order to be ready! Do you have anything special you like to do this time of year?

Links Mentioned:

https://instagram.com/brittanylgibson

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

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Ep 64. My Favorite Herb for Transitioning to Fall

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:54:00 -0400

Are you starting to get those fall vibes? I sure am. Nothing marks the harvest season to me like goldenrod. Its abundant yellow hues paint the landscape this time of year. Not only is it pretty, but it has some pretty great herbal uses to fill your homestead pantry as well.

Links Mentioned:

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www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

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Ep 63. The Differences Between Chamomile and Feverfew and How to Use Them

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 04:50:00 -0400

Next up in the herbal stash challenge are two pretty little herbs: chamomile and feverfew! These are two garden favorites that are excellent to grow and have in your personal homestead herbal stash.

Links Mentioned:

https://instagram.com/brittanylgibson

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

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Ep 62. What a Tree Falling on My House Taught Me About Emergency Preparedness

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:57:00 -0400

Yikes! Emergency preparedness is SUCH a hot topic in an election year. But... spoiler alert... it's probably the little everyday things that most of us will experience that you need to prepare for. There are also many things you can do to prep that are completely free! Being a prepper doesn't mean you have to prep for an apocalypse. Maybe it's just a big old oak that comes crashing down!

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

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Ep 61. 5 Ways to Reduce Kitchen Food Waste

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 05:01:00 -0400

Most homesteaders are concerned about saving food and saving money. Listen to these 5 ways to reduce your food waste that are EASY and effective.

Links Mentioned:

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/blackberry-vinegar/

A Farm to Keep-> https://youtu.be/WasIGsKRCAk?si=TL-4I7_N1tyfILgf

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Ep 60. I didn't know what to say

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 04:27:00 -0400

Thank you for 60 episodes of The Homestead Challenge. I know homesteading isn't the hottest topic anymore, but we are still doing the thing! For many of us, we have learned so many lessons, found new habits and ways of life, and maybe even made some mistakes along the way. In today's episode, I share my heart on social media, politics, and loving your neighbor (and probably some other stuff too).

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

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Ep 59. All of the Uses for the Common Weed Plantain

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 04:49:00 -0400

Plantain (not the funky banana kind) can be found in sidewalk cracks, fields of grass, the side of the road, and more. It is a healing herb and is very gentle, yet effective. Listen in for all of the ways I use plantain in my own herbal medicine stash.

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

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Ep 58. Natural Sunscreen and Sun Protection Options for a Toxic-Free Summer

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 04:24:00 -0400

This episode explores Natural Sunscreen and Sun Protection Options for a Toxic-Free Summer. From the foods you eat to what you put on your skin, there are good, better, and best options when it comes to natural summer sun protection!

Links Mentioned:

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/raspberry-leaf-and-chamomile-summer-cooling-spray/

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

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Ep 57. How to Use Echinacea as an Herbal Remedy in Your Home

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Echinacea is abundant in many neighborhoods as many people are beginning to recognize the importance of planting wildflowers. Not only are they beautiful, but purple coneflowers are incredibly useful too! Join in our Herbal Stash challenge and gather your own echinacea as we start to build our own home apothecaries for the fall and winter ahead.

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

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Ep 56. Homesteading Really Does Get Easier

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 07:51:44 -0400

I never thought it would happen. But I turned around, and I realized that I actually am doing the thing. And I am not stressed. Homesteading can be so daunting when it is brand new to you, but practice really does make progress. When we learn and fail, take it all on and start getting our hands dirty, we are eventually given the homestead of our dreams.

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Ep 55. The 3 Easiest Ways to Preserve Your Garden Harvest That Still Provide a Creative Outlet

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 04:50:00 -0400

The abundance of the garden can be overwhelming. As a newer homesteader, canning was simply too stressful to even think about. Now, I love to can, but sometimes I simply don't feel like it or don't have the time. There are so many easier ways to preserve some of your harvest (I've talked about them in other episodes), but simply freezing or dehydrating can be a little boring. As I am on a lifelong journey to consume less, I want to create MORE! Today I want to talk about 3 really easy ways to preserve that are also fun and creative (not to mention pretty!).

Other Preserving Episodes to Listen to:

Ep 45. 9 Cheap and Easy Methods for Preserving Your Garden Harvest

Ep. 13. 5 Canning Mistakes I Made So You Don't Have To

Links

How to Start Fermenting Veggies

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/category/recipes-and-meal-plans/food-preservation/

Ep 54. The Magic of Mullein: An Easy Herbal Remedy Found Right in Your Neighborhood

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Mullein is a super common herb found right in your neighborhood. As we are quickly approaching the fall, I thought it would be fun to get our homesteads prepared by building up our at-home herbal remedy stash. Twice a month I will explore an herb to add to your home herbal medicine chest so we can be prepared for the cold and flu season ahead, stress-free.

Links Mentioned:

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/garlic-mullein-herbal-oil/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-allergy-tea-recipe/

View My Favorite Herbal Supplies on Amazon -> https://amzn.to/4c5or7s

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 53. Gaining Peace By Giving Myself Permission to Be a Homemaker

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:53:37 -0400

Ah! I am nervous about putting this episode out into the world friends. Today I want to dive into all of the guilt and feelings I have had about quitting work to become a homemaker and later a stay-at-home mom. I always expected myself to be a career woman/boss babe, and I found myself very anxious and stressed all of the time. It turns out that leaning into my femininity (why does this still make me cringe?) has brought me a ton of peace. This won't be the same for every person, but if you are struggling with feelings about being a homemaker or longing to become one, but feel the societal pressure to work, I hope this episode brings you some solidarity.

Links Mentioned

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://instagram.com/brittanylgibson

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Ep 52. How to Make an Herbal Salve with a Common Garden Flower

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 04:45:00 -0400

I am here to chat about my current favorite little flower that I am using topically at home. It's CALENDULA. And no, mine is not yet blooming in the garden. But you can always order from a reputable source. Starwest Botanicals is one of my favorites. I know some of you are very curious to get into herbal medicine. I truly think that topical products and skincare are the best gateway to learn about plants in a safe (and fun!) manner.

MINI SALVE GUIDE-> bit.ly/herbalsalve

FAVE HERBAL PRODUCTS-> https://amzn.to/4c5or7s

Buy Calendula Online -> https://shrsl.com/4l9ry

Other Herbal Episodes

Ep 51. A New Freezer and A New Kitchen Gadget to Beat the Summer Heat

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 04:41:00 -0400

This heat wave has made me appreciate being inside again. I have many projects that were left neglected as I abandoned them for the lust of garden season. I am not one for the heat, so I have been staying cool while giving the inside of my home some much needed love. From the pantry area of the basement to experimenting with new herbal products, it feels good to spread the love to some of my other homesteading hobbies.

Links Mentioned:

View My Favorite Herbal Supplies on Amazon -> https://amzn.to/4c5or7s

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 50. Committing to No Processed Foods for a Month

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 04:57:00 -0400

I can't believe this is Episode 50! I figured it was time to up my homesteading game, so I wanted to do a little challenge. I am committing to no processed foods for a month (well, mostly). Listen in to what this means for me and for how you can join in this challenge to put your health and environmental goals to the forefront of your summer. I am ready for fresh harvested food, local meats, and all that homemade goodness.

Join the Facebook Group to Join In -> https://www.facebook.com/share/XF2nZ42oFLEaCNAG/ or Search "The Homestead Challenge"

Ep 49. Rating My Best Sustainable Swaps 4 Years Later

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 07:32:11 -0400

Sustainable products aren't as "hot" as they used to be. I think people caught on that you should use what you have before buying new! That's definitely the homesteader mentality that I try to get myself into every day. But I have certainly purchased my fair share of sustainable products. Let's look at an old blog post to see if I still love these products as much as I used to to see if they have proven to be truly sustainable.

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 48. How to Have a Prepper Stash Without the Conspiracy

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 04:39:00 -0400

When people think of homesteaders, they may also relate thoughts of conspiracies and doomsday prepping to the mix. I am not all about that. But I AM about prepping for peace of mind for minor emergencies. In this episode, I am chatting about the minimal prepping that we do in my household to keep the peace and leave the conspiracy behind.

View My Favorite Prepping Supplies on Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3XefiWh

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 47. How I am Living Slow this Summer Even Though I am Bad at Slow Living

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 04:47:00 -0400

Many people desire to live a homestead life when they desire slow living. Slow living can bring us to what is most important. It can allow us to savor the short time we have with our children. It can calm our nervous systems in this busy world. I think many of us desire slow living, but many (including me) are not the best at it. We live in a modern world full of busyness, but there are still simple ways we can slow down our days, despite living fairly normal lives. In today's episode, I share a glimpse into how I am trying to slow down to savor the summer for health and for happiness.

Links Mentioned:

View My Favorite Herbal Supplies on Amazon -> https://amzn.to/4c5or7s

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 46. Common Garden Culinary Herbs that Can Be Used as Medicinals

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 06:59:36 -0400

In the homesteading realm, a lot of people are looking to get into medicinal herbs, but it can be intimidating! I think we often discount the common herbs, right from our garden, that have been used throughout time for medicinal purposes. These common culinary herbs pack a punch and are safe and easy to use to start your herbal journey!

Links Mentioned:

View My Favorite Herbal Supplies on Amazon -> https://amzn.to/4c5or7s

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 45. 9 Cheap and Easy Methods for Preserving Your Garden Harvest

Fri, 31 May 2024 04:48:00 -0400

It is almost harvest time this garden season, and I wanted to share some simple methods for preserving your harvest, no matter the size or budget (no fancy freeze dryer required). This episode mostly focuses on herbs, but these tips can be used for many types of veggies and even flowers, too!

Links Mentioned:

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/drying-peaches/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/how-to-preserve-fresh-herbs/

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 44. 7 Productive Ways to Rest on the Homestead

Tue, 28 May 2024 04:46:00 -0400

Rest AND productivity in the same sentence? I know that can sound confusing, but I truly find that I am most rested when I am doing something a little productive at the same time. Whether it's physical or mental, there are ways to rest your mind and body that can be productive for you in the long run. In this episode, I am going through 7 of my favorite ways to rest on the homestead.

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 43. Is It Okay to Be A Half-Hearted Homesteader?

Fri, 24 May 2024 06:17:37 -0400

I think it is safe to say that we all go through different busy seasons. During those busy seasons, you may do more or less homesteading than you'd prefer- and that's totally okay! We need to release unrealistic expectations that we put on ourselves and know that every little bit of "homesteading" that we do in any given season is important, and enough.

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 42. The Pressure to Plant a Native Garden

Tue, 21 May 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Instagram can be a great source of garden inspiration, but also pressure! While growing native is WILDLY important (see what I did there), I don't think we need to feel bad about not doing it perfectly. Some things simply make us happy. And no, we cannot singlehandedly wipe out all of the invasives in our area either. It's all a lot. Like many things in life, I think that finding the right balance for you will help you create the happy, pollinator-friendly garden of your dreams.

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 41. Garden Folklore and Myths that Are Actually True

Tue, 14 May 2024 04:55:00 -0400

Whether you believe in folklore, wivetales, or garden myths or not, a lot of it is rooted in truth! I scoured the internet for some of te best gardening advice that has been passed down through the generations that are rooted in some science.

Do you know of any folklore that has proven to be true in your garden?

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 40. Use these Herbs in Your Garden for Natural Bug Repellent

Fri, 10 May 2024 04:35:00 -0400

As we plant our gardens this spring, we need to think about how we will be spending our time outdoors. If you want to eat or even hang out outside, you'll soon be bombarded by some pesky little friends. Whether you plant these herbs in container gardens around your patio or use them in a natural DIY bug spray, you'll be happy you planned ahead for natural bug repellent this season!

Links Mentioned:

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/diy-herbal-bug-spray/

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 39. Summer Schedules and Systems for Balancing Homestead Tasks and Family Fun

Mon, 06 May 2024 21:54:00 -0400

In today's episode, I talk about changing routines for household tasks (psst... join the Facebook Community and we are all going to share our favorite QUICK and easy summer recipes), family fun and adventures, and even a little self-care (not the woo woo kind, but the kind where you do stuff for "future you" and can thank yourself later).

Tune in and really work on adapting your routines for the season so you can have your best summer yet (Seriously. I actually mean that.)

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 38. Things No One Mentions About Companion Planting

Fri, 03 May 2024 04:46:00 -0400

Companion planting is among the most popular homesteading and gardening goals from our community this year! Sure, we all know you should plant stuff with other stuff to make it grow better, but why? After researching companion planting, I was left with a few questions that I felt like no one was answering. Hopefully, this clears some of them up!

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Get $10 off a GreenStalk Vertical Planter

Ep 37. My 6 Favorite Amazon Garden Finds this Year

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Happy Garden Season! Here are my top picks for relatively inexpensive (well, for the most part) Amazon finds for the garden that I have been LOVING this year as I build a garden in my forever city homestead.

Get the links: https://amzn.to/47YMD9c

Join the Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Ep. 36 What To Do When You Regret Some of the Homesteading Decisions You've Made

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Oof! Regret is hard and hearing, "I told you so" is a hard pill to swallow. But if there is one thing I know for certain: the best way to learn homesteading is to learn by doing it and making mistakes. We are all human and we can change our minds whenever we want as we grow and learn. What is one lesson or regret that you learned the hard way?

Episode Mentioned: Ep 5: Homestead Confessions: Expensive Kitchen Gadgets I Regret Buying

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 35. Beyond Contentment: Actually LOVING Where You’re At

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 04:45:00 -0400

In this episode, I chat about contentment. But not just waiting around and being okay with where you are at, but still dreaming about your forever homestead. I mean LOVING where you are at, and not even wanting more (well, for the most part).

Links Mentioned:

https://bit.ly/homesteadchallengegoalplanner

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 34. Six Herbs for Spring Allergies

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Today I talk about six of my favorite herbs for spring allergies and how to consume them (and how to get your kids to take them, too!).

LINKS MENTIONED

Starwest Botanicals: https://www.starwest-botanicals.com/?sscid=41k8_mmxwh

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-allergy-tea-recipe/

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 33. Things No One Tells You About Gardening

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 04:45:00 -0400

We all start somewhere. I am not a beginner but also not an expert gardener. This is my first year building a full-on garden, and I was surprised to learn these things.

I almost felt silly when I learned some of these things this year.

Let me know a surprising thing you learned during your first year of gardening!

P.S. Thank you for 10k downloads!

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 32. How to Deal When Other People Don't Really Support Your Natural Lifestyle

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 04:45:00 -0400

It can be so hard when your friends and family just don't really get it. They might not be outright unsupportive... but when you are surrounded by people who don't get your desire to live a toxic-free, natural life (or want a homestead!), it can be a little exhausting. In this episode, I am going to explore some of the ways that you can deal with these feelings, bridge the gap, gain support, and stay true to your lifestyle choices.

Links Mentioned:

www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 31. Taking the Reins When Things Change on the Homestead

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

It's time for change! But like, good change! Not scary change. The kind of change that we KNOW if coming... and we can actually plan for it if we just accept that it is going to happen.

Whether it's a new season with new homestead tasks, your kiddos getting older, a new job, or something else, we all know change will happen indeed.

Instead of getting stuck in our old routines, let's make some time to take the reins and make a plan that works for our lives in this new season.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/time

Ep 30. 4 Gatorade Alternatives for Hydration During the Flu

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 07:31:15 -0400

Y'all. This has been the WORST Flu of my life. Holy Moly. Here are 4 sports drink ideas that might be better options for you than Gatorade when you are in need of some serious hydration. Stay well!

Link to my storefront with most of the products mentioned:

https://www.amazon.com/shop/brittanylgibson/list/1MDAGD3YRJ6N5?ref_=aipsflist_aipsfbrittanylgibson

Magic Magnesium:

https://woodenspoonherbs.com/collections/powders/products/magic-magnesium

Refreshing Blackberry Rosehip Marshmallow Root Infusion Recipe

Yield: about 4 cups (2 drinks)

Ingredients:

For the Marshmallow Infusion:

1 quart water

¾ cup marshmallow root, dried and chopped

For the Blackberry Rosehip Syrup:

2 cups blackberries, fresh

¼ cup rosehips, dried

¼ cup honey

¼ cup water

1 tbsp lemon juice

pinch of sea salt

Instructions

At night, fill a jar with 1 quart water and ¾ cup marshmallow root.

Shake to combine and refrigerate. The next day, strain the mixture.

To make the blackberry rosehip syrup, combine blackberries, rosehips, honey, lemon juice, and ¼ cup water in a small pot.

Simmer together for 15 minutes, smashing the blackberries with the back of your spoon or a potato masher.

Strain the mixture into an airtight container.

To make a single beverage, combine 1 pint marshmallow infusion with 1 tbsp blackberry rosehip syrup over ice. Stir.

Add a pinch of sea salt and garnish with lemon.

Ep 29. 3 Mental Triggers to Make Homesteading Easier

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Being a wife and/or mama is AMAZING, but it can be a LOT. There are so many things on our plates. It got me thinking about ways I simplify remembering to do ALL THE THINGS.

I am not perfect at this, but there are three specific triggers in my daily life that remind me to do other things that are easier to forget. These triggers have made a HUGE difference in my life, and I think you can create some in your routines to do the same (and it's actually pretty easy!).

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/time

Ep 28. The Raw Truth: My Milk Journey and How Herdshare Realigned my Mindset

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 04:45:00 -0400

In this episode, I dive into a crucial turning point in my homesteading life – the moment I finally found a raw milk herdshare near me. This wasn't just about choosing healthier milk; it was about taking ownership of my choices and realigning with my core values.

🌿 Why Raw Milk? Raw milk isn't just milk. It's a symbol of balance and natural wellness, packed with more amino acids, antimicrobials, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids than its pasteurized counterpart. It’s especially beneficial for those dealing with lactose intolerance, asthma, and autoimmune conditions.

But this journey is more than just about milk. It's about making conscious choices that resonate with our lifestyle and beliefs.

Like always, I don't think that MY choice is necessarily the right choice for YOU! But there are SO many great options to uplevel your dairy game if you are still buying conventional milk.

🌱 Every step towards a more informed choice is a step towards better health and alignment. It’s all about embracing those steady, positive incremental changes.

Links Mentioned:

https://realmilk.com

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

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Ep 27. Systems and Online Communities Have Kept My Homestead Afloat

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 04:44:00 -0400

Things have been a little out-of-whack around my homestead. But solid systems and an online community have truly been the things that have kept me going. I am eager to teach you these systems and create an online community so that no suburban homesteader ever feels like they don't have someone or something to fall back on.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme

Ep 26. Can you be a homesteader and a minimalist? 5 Ways I Got Minimalism All Wrong

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Spring cleaning is ALL the rage on the interwebs, and there are a few buzzwords that go around this time of year. Mainly, "minimalism." Don't run away yet! I know... most of us homesteady types are NOT here for minimalism.

But hear me out, I think minimalism has a few principles we can apply to better our homestead lives (and no, not that cold, gray aesthetic).

Check out 5 mistakes I made when I thought I had to be a minimalist and how we can all learn a few minimalist values to help reach our 2024 goals!

Homework:

Before bringing something new into your life, whether it is a physical item or an activity, make sure it aligns with your homestead goals.

Links Mentioned:

FREE Challenge: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/time

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 25. 3 Step Spring Refresh to Revitalize Your Homestead Routine

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Starting a solid routine before the busy homestead season is crucial, especially if your kiddos will be out of school over the summer! Everyone is spring cleaning right now, but there is so much more to it than that! Getting these things out of the way now will ensure your homestead's success for the year and get you into a rhythm that will make the rest of the year run so much smoother.

Listen in for 3 ways to spring refresh your homestead so you can set yourself up for an abundant and stress-free season ahead!

Links Mentioned:

FREE Time Management Challenge: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/time

Sustainable Declutter Challenge: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/eco-friendly-printable-30-day-declutter-challenge/

Spring Simmer Pot Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/simple-spring-floral-and-citrus-simmer-pot-recipe/

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 24. Eat Your Frogs: How to Reset Your Homestead When You Feel Burnt Out

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 04:40:00 -0400

I am so excited to share Field Prep Foundations, a FREE 5-day challenge to help you reclaim and realign your time.

Over the course of five days, you will receive emails with a video challenge containing simple, actionable steps for you to move toward a homestead jam-packed with all of the things you want to do, and ditching the rest.

Here's what to expect:

• Identifying Time Wasters

• Homestead Goal Setting

• Time Blocking

• Automating + Delegating Tasks

All straight to your inbox! Each day is designed to help you cultivate a more organized and productive approach to your homesteading activities.

JOIN THE FREE CHALLENGE

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Ep 23. The Importance of Local Community in Homesteading with Caitlin of Homegrown Hopes

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 04:55:00 -0400

In today's conversation, Caitlin of Homegrown Hopes shares some common misconceptions about homesteading, tackling the myths of homesteading and the importance of local community (something I am not always the best at!). It's all about finding balance, leaning on each other's strengths, and creating a supportive network.

For those aspiring or current homesteaders, Caitlin leaves you with a message of patience, continuous learning, and the courage to put knowledge into action. Whether it's starting small with herbs on an apartment balcony or joining a local community garden, the key is to dive in and try.

Don't forget to check out Caitlin's podcast, Homegrown Hopes, after this episode!

LINKS MENTIONED

https://homegrownhopes.com/

https://holistichomesteadconference.com/

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 22. Non-Toxic Cleaning Routine without Essential Oils

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 04:40:00 -0500

I am feeling the clean and declutter bug. Big time. I think that is totally normal for this time of year. More and more people move toward non-toxic cleaners every year, and I wanted to give you my favorite recipes (without essential oils... well... sometimes) in case you are looking to do the same in your own homestead.

I have a complicated relationship with essential oils that are so beloved by the crunchy community. Dive on into this episode to learn why I am not in love with them, and what I use instead!

HOMEWORK: Start infusing some white vinegar!

Links Mentioned:

DIY Thieves Cleaner

DIY Wood Cleaner

Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap (join the email list!)

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 21. How I Did All of My Homestead Tasks in 45 Minutes

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 04:43:00 -0500

Discover how to efficiently tackle your homestead tasks! Today, I'm chatting about how I managed all my homestead tasks in just 45 minutes by using the critical path method.

Streamlining tasks to overcome the chaos of jumping from one task to another can help boost our productivity while actually making us feel LESS busy. Transitioning from the strict structure of academia to the flexibility of homesteading led me to feel a little bit lost without structure in my days. I found methods that actually work to increase my productivity, make me less busy, but still remain flexible.

Implementation for Larger Projects:

List project activities.
Identify dependencies.
Create a critical path diagram.
Calculate the duration of each activity.
Determine the overall timeline following the critical path.

Links Mentioned:

Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 20. Seed Sorting Simplified: Organizing Strategies for Every Gardener

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 04:45:00 -0500

Seed organizing sounds like a daunting task, but it is actually kind of fun! Hear me out... you get to see what else you still need to buy and then go seed shopping! What could be better than that?

I've learned that if I get organized in a way that works for my brain before the peak of garden season, I will set myself up for a lot more success (and a lot less stress). When it's go-time, I will get to play in the garden and get my hands in the dirt, not trying to remember what I am supposed to plant and when.

Recall the organization styles we explored in Episode 12 about kitchen organization. It's time to apply those principles to your garden seed organizing.

Homework: Get yourself organized. Really. Do it. Today.

Links Mentioned:

The Best Seed Organizing Ideas

Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 19. Grit & Growth: Overcoming Homestead Fears and Failures

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 04:45:00 -0500

Whether you're daunted by the prospect of failure or success, homesteading fears can be REAL. I received a thought-provoking question from a Facebook follower and I couldn't resist talking about this topic right away (because I think it hits home for all of us).

In this episode, I explore the complex emotions that come with change – from the unsettling fear of failure to the surprising apprehension of success, and even the daunting impostor syndrome. Why does success sometimes scare us as much as failure?

Let's confront these fears head-on. What happens when our worst fears come to life?

This episode isn't just about homesteading – it's about growth, resilience, and the courage to face our fears.

Homework:

Make the lists of fears you either had starting out or still have, then make a list of your fears once you get started? Take time to let them sink in and truly think about whats worse. I don’t think you will struggle to make your dreams come true if you look at the alternatives.

Links Mentioned:

Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 18. Homesteading Hills That I Am Not Going To Die On

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 04:45:00 -0500

People have some seriously strong opinions online over homesteading things. Whether it be politics, sustainability, health claims... the list goes on and on. Don't get me wrong! I AM HERE FOR THAT! I am here for homesteaders speaking out about things no one else is talking about. What I am not all about? YOU thinking that you have to die on all of these hills. That is tiring and honestly, impossible.

There are some hills that I personally am not willing to die on, but you might! Make sure you are prioritizing what actually matters to you most for your own homestead. In today's episode, I wanted to chat about some things that I decided to let slide a bit so I can focus on what's important most to me.

Homework: Join the Facebook group and tell me the hill you would die on. What do you want to scream from the rooftops?

Links Mentioned:

Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 17. 5 Ways to Homestead When You Are Sick

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 04:45:00 -0500

I don't know how it got us again, but the family has gone through another round of colds. I thought we were done for the season! Alas, I wanted to think of things I could check off my homestead to-do list from the couch.

In today's episode, I am going to chat about 5 ways you homestead while you are sick, so all of your systems don't crumble, you stay organized, and you don't come back from illness to a hot mess house! If you found any of these tips helpful, please leave a 5-star written review. It would mean the world to me.

Homework: Make an extra of one of your meals this week that freezes well and put it in the freezer to have on hand.

Links Mentioned:

Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 16. 7 Things You Can Do Right Now to Start Your Garden Season Off Right

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 04:39:00 -0500

Join me as I prepare to make this spring gardening season the best one yet! Remember, a little planning today leads to a lush, thriving garden tomorrow.

Why is now the perfect time to start garden planning? So you don’t get overwhelmed this garden season! HELLO! There is actually so much you can do right now. Today I am going to share my top 7 ways to prep your garden so you have your best season yet.

🌻 Let's get our hands dirty and get to it!

HOMEWORK- Make a plan to start your garden NOW instead of waiting until grow season.

Links Mentioned:

Spring Gardening Tips

Free Raised Bed Plans

Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 15. Systemizing Your Suburban Homestead with Chelsi Jo

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 04:40:00 -0500

Before you add anything else to your homestead task list, you MUST get your home management systems in order. Chelsi Jo of the Systemize Your Life podcast is here to help us do just that.

She walks through her systems as a crunchy mama and talks about where you can start to organize your own life and say goodbye to the overwhelm through a flexible, automated system suited to your own homestead (yes, even if your schedule is chaotic!).

These systems have made me feel like I gained time in my days (and space in my brain!) and I hope they work for you too! Check out where to find Chelsi in the links below.

Links Mentioned:

Listen to the Systemize Your Life Podcast

Check out the Systemize Your Life Home Management System

Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 14. The Cost of Inaction: What is Killing your Homestead Productivity and How to Stop It

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 04:42:00 -0500

We often appear busy, but are we truly productive? Let’s discuss the dilemma of wanting to learn and implement new homesteading techniques but often failing to take action.

In this episode, I will discuss:
- The Perfectionist Trap: Understanding how the fear of imperfection can lead to inaction.
- The Learning-Implementing Gap: The cycle of endless learning without application.
- The Cost of Inaction: The immediate and long-term costs of procrastination, particularly how it affects our mental health and sanity.
- Overcoming Procrastination with DWPP: Learn the four-step method to effectively tackle procrastination in homesteading tasks.

Homework:

For those caught in the perfectionist trap: Start small and give yourself grace. Try it anyway!
For the constant learners: Take a day off each week from podcasts, YouTube, audiobooks, etc. Use this time for implementation.

Links Mentioned:

Ger Your Free Homesteading Roadmap

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 13. 5 Canning Mistakes I Made So You Don’t Have To

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 04:45:00 -0500

Canning is still a thing! We can and preserve food in order to make healthier choices, save a little cash, and have FUN! So why in the world did I find myself crying over canning during my first canning season?

I made a few mistakes that definitely made things harder on myself. Canning really is NOT hard! And it is not scary.

Listen to this episode for my canning confessionals and learn from my mistakes so your first-time canning can be stress-free!

HOMEWORK- If you want to can this year, make a plan for getting all your gear. Do you need to add it to the budget? If you are an experienced canner, share your favorite canning convenience meals in the Facebook Group!

Links Mentioned:

All of the Canning Tips

Favorite Books on Home Food Preservation

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 12. Is Your Kitchen a Hot Mess? Use Your Personal Organization Style to Finally Get a System that Works

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 04:45:00 -0500

I want to help you conquer the clutter and create a kitchen that works for YOU (not the way Pinterest tells you it should look).

In this episode, I uncover:

Why tackling your kitchen now is key before the busy spring/summer season hits.
Forget one-size-fits-all solutions: Learn how to design a system that reflects your preferences and lifestyle based on the Clutterbug Organizing Styles.
Actionable tips for each style: Learn hacks, storage solutions, and strategies to transform your kitchen.

Let's get your kitchen under control and create a space you love that FUNCTIONS! Be sure to head over and Take the Clutterbug Quiz!

P.S. Share this episode with a friend who could use some kitchen organization magic!

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep. 11 Transitioning to Natural Skincare with Faithful Family Farmer

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 04:46:00 -0500

Today, we have a special guest – Emily from Faithful Family Farmer, a powerhouse who's successfully navigating the realms of homesteading, motherhood, and running a thriving skincare business.

Curious about ozonated skincare? Emily breaks it down for us, explaining what it is and how it stands out amongst other natural skincare.

Moving through the process of transitioning from conventional skincare to embracing natural alternatives can be scary! But it is so worth it (or at least we think so!).

Emily wears multiple hats – not only is she the brains behind a successful skincare line, but she also manages a full-fledged homestead. We get a glimpse into her homestead life, complete with animals, gardens, and more.

A big thank you to Emily for joining us on this episode!

LINKS MENTIONED

Shop Faithful Family Farmer Skincare

Follow Emily on Instagram

Follow Brittany on Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 10: Favorite Homestead Bulk Buys on Amazon

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 04:35:00 -0500

Now, before you start questioning my homesteader credentials, let me share my Azure Standard story and talk about why I still shop on Amazon sometimes. Don't hate me for shopping on Amazon – I've got some valuable insights to share!

We ALL know we should be shopping locally first. But sometimes, ya girl just needs a good deal or I need something FAST!

Have you ever got that random last-minute itch to learn to do something and want to do it NOW? Sadly, Amazon can be an okay option to lean into those urges.

Listen in for my top 8 bulk buys!

HOMEWORK- Tell me what I am missing. Any good deals that I should know about? I would love to share them with everyone!

Links Mentioned:

Links for all of my favorite products

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 9: 10 Habits to Incorporate Homesteading into your Everyday Life

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 04:44:00 -0500

Today, I'm listing 10 habits to seamlessly integrate homesteading into your everyday life. Instead of thinking of homesteading as all of these "BIG" things to learn like canning, sourdough, or even chickens, let's start with a few things that we can incorporate immediately that will lead to success in our homesteads. There is huge value in creating home habits and systemizing your life before adding more tasks.

Listen in for the 10 Habits for Everyday Homesteading that I incorporate to create a strong foundation for my modern homestead.

Homework:

Get your home systems in place before diving into additional homesteading activities.

Links Mentioned:

Printable Compost Dos and Don’ts List

Composting Tumbler Tips

Winter Composting Tips

How do you know when your compost is ready?

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

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Ep 8: My Secret Sauce for Homesteading in a Modern World Without Guilt

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 04:27:00 -0500

This episode is a reminder not to fall into the comparison trap that can easily steal your joy and lead to guilt. Everyone's homesteading journey is completely different, and I am all about homesteading that is tailor-made to fit YOUR modern life, no one else's.

Don’t force homesteading activities you don't enjoy. Don’t let others steal your joy when they point out that what you are doing isn’t good enough.

Do you agree with embracing imperfection on our homesteading journeys, or do you believe we should always strive for perfection?

HOMEWORK

Unfollow anyone on Instagram who makes you feel less than. Surround yourself with positivity.

Links Mentioned:

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 7: The 5 Best Phone Apps for Modern Homesteaders

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 04:27:00 -0500

Phones aren’t inherently bad. Instead of mindless scrolling, let's make our phone time count. Phones are seriously cool tools! We need to use them to our advantage and make the most of our screen time to help achieve our homesteading goals.

Featured Apps for Modern Homesteaders

Thrive Market, White Oak Pastures, Local Grocery Store App
Ovia (Cycle Tracker)
1000 Hours Outside
PlantNet (Plant Identification)
Merlin Bird ID

Bonus Apps

Planter

Podcast Platforms!

HOMEWORK

Download one app that will help you streamline your homesteading processes or live a healthier lifestyle this year.

Links Mentioned:

Best homesteading podcasts

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 6: 7 Ways to Live a Toxic-Free Life this Year (with attainable swaps!)

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 04:45:00 -0500

Feeling overwhelmed with the daily grind and convinced you don't have time for DIY cleaning products and researching natural alternatives? I get it. But is that really true? I am not an expert, but we can all agree that minimizing toxic chemicals in our homes is a step towards a healthier lifestyle. Do your own research before making changes in your home.

I'll guide you through 7 ways to go toxic-free this year. From cleaning products to bath and body and everything in between, making small swaps one step at a time can have BIG effects on our overall health and wellness.

Stay healthy, crunchy friend!

Homework: Make one swap this week (from the list or not) and tell me what it is inside the community or take a pic and tag me on Instagram!

Links Mentioned:

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

My favorite cast iron- Smithey (affiliate link)

Alexapure review

Thieves recipe

Lavender body oil

Evergreen simmer pot recipe

EWG’s list of the Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen

Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic

Ep 5: Homestead Confessions: Expensive Kitchen Gadgets I Regret Buying (Don’t waste your money!)

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Welcome to the first episode of Homestead Confessions, where I bare it all about the mistakes I've made on my homesteading journey so you can avoid them. Today, we're diving into the world of homestead shopping – a battle between consumerism and frugality.

Got those holiday gift cards burning a hole in your pocket? Before you splurge, listen up! This episode is your guide to responsible homestead shopping.

These three kitchen gadgets are taking up space and staring me down with guilt. Learn from my missteps, and let's talk about avoiding buyer's remorse.

Homework:

If the shopping bug bites, create a wishlist. Whether it's on Amazon or a good old-fashioned piece of paper, ensure every purchase aligns with your 2024 homesteading goals.

Remember, it's not about saying no to great products; it's about saying yes to the right ones. Stay tuned for more Homestead Confessions, and may your homesteading journey be filled with wise choices.

Links Mentioned:

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Realistic Kitchen Fridge Organization Tips

Ep 4: Crafting your Homestead Goals for 2024 Without the Overwhelm

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 04:45:00 -0500

Make Your Homestead Goals HAPPEN in 2024!

In this episode, we ditch resolutions and jump into action. No more setting vague goals; it's time to make your homesteading dreams a reality in 2024.

Crafting a plan that sticks is the key. Spend less time planning, and more time doing. By setting actionable plans, we can avoid constantly thinking about what needs to be done, and JUST DO IT. Let's get realistic and make a plan that works for you.

Discover the power of a word of the year, a 3-year vision, and a focused 1-year goal. My goal planner, based on core homesteading values, simplifies the process.

Reminder: Regularly assess progress, adjusting the plan as needed. Flexibility is key to homesteading success.

Homework:

Your homework is to fill out the planner. If you're feeling brave, share your goals in the private Facebook community. Let's support each other on this homesteading journey.

Links:

Free Homestead Goal Planner

Free Raised Garden Bed Plans

The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community

Ep. 3 2 Herbal Things You Can Make this Week that are Not Scary

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 04:02:00 -0500

Is herbalism part of your New Year's Resolutions this Year?

In this episode:

Learn about incorporating herbalism into daily routines as a resolution in ways that are easy (and not scary!)
Discover the easiest herbs to get started with, proving that popular choices can indeed be effective.

The New Year marks a fresh start, and what better way to embrace natural, sustainable living than by diving into the world of herbalism? In this episode, we're demystifying the process by introducing you to two easy and effective herbal DIYs.

Homework: Pick one herb and think about how you can seamlessly incorporate it into your life this year, making herbalism an achievable part of your routine.

What else do you want to know about herbs? How can I help you get started with this resolution? Feel free to email me at brittany@thehomesteadchallenge.com or DM me on Instagram!

Resources Mentioned:

My favorite place to buy herbs online: Starwest Botanicals (affiliate link)

Ep 2. 3 Ways to Homestead in the School Pick Up Line

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 03:35:51 -0500

Are you looking to further your homesteading journey on the go?

In this episode:

This quick and actionable episode gives three tips on how we can use our time on the go to further our homestead goals! Whether you are waiting in the school pick-up line, for grocery pick-up, or on a commute, let's make use of our time! Instead of scrolling, let's learn and DO!

Let's make the most of our time and make these homestead dreams a reality!

Homework: Load up your phone with podcasts and books so are prepared next time you are looking to homestead on the go!

RESOURCES

Homestead Podcasts to Follow

Kindle Books to Download

Meal Planner Template

Instagram

Ep 1. 5 Things I Don’t Do as a Modern Homesteader

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 03:26:41 -0500

What homesteading things do you ACTUALLY want to do?

In this episode:

We will hone in on the homesteading things that we actually want to do, and let go of everything that doesn't align with our goals. We cannot do it all, and let's be honest, we don't even want to! Let's make more time for the homestead things we love, and ditch the rest.

2024 is going to be a major year for us to accomplish goals, learn the things we have wanted to learn, and find systems that make homesteading work for us! I am not a standard homesteader, and you don't have to be either!

Homework: Write out what homesteading things you really want to do and tally up how much time it actually takes. Now check your phone time and see how many hours you spend a day on your phone. OPE! Maybe this will give you some hope or maybe it will tell you that you might want to let something go.

Resources Mentioned:

The Homestead Challenge

Homestead Goal Planner

Instagram

The Homestead Challenge Podcast Trailer

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 12:52:33 -0500

Do you feel like you never have time to cook from scratch the way you want to? Tried diving into the homesteading lifestyle only to end up feeling burnt out? Maybe you're not even sure where to start.

Are you ready to navigate the world of homesteading in a way that suits your modern life, using your talents and interests (not just what the internet tells you you need to do)?

In this podcast, you will find modern and practical solutions for your suburban homestead.

If you're itching to kick off your homesteading journey on your terms and bid farewell to overwhelm and guilt—you're in the right spot.

I'm here to dish out quick and straightforward homesteading tips and home management systems, all geared towards intentional living and finding contentment.

We will talk about cooking, cleaning, gardening, preserving, and everything in between. If I don’t have a solution, I will call in an expert so we can learn together exactly what we need to know, and ditch the rest.

Hey friend. I’m Brittany. Crunchy mom and wannabe homesteader. I've been down the road of trying to learn all the homesteady things… I took all the courses, bought every Instagram bundle of information… bought a canner, a grain mill, a dehydrator, and more… and then I hit the burnout wall.

Attempting to master every internet-suggested skill all at once led to a lot of wasted time and, let's be honest, quite a bit of wasted money.

I was left with a ton of home canned goods I didn’t actually use. Felt guilty about not baking all of my bread, when I actually don’t even LOVE baking. I grew things in the garden that I would NEVER eat.

But guess what? It doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing ordeal. I've found a way to live out homesteading principles in my own modern style, letting go of some things and crafting a plan that sticks. And now, I'm here to guide you to do the same.

If you're ready to homestead in a way that meshes with your busy life— Join me and let's make your homesteading goals a reality!

Grab that sourdough starter from the back of your fridge, it’s time to rise.

Welcome to The Homestead Challenge Podcast.

Where to find me!

The Homestead Challenge Website

Instagram

Facebook Community