Podcast

Everyday Homesteading

Education, Home & Garden, How To, Leisure

Desperate to grow, cook, and preserve real food for your family in only 5-10 hours a week, but stuck as a new homesteader looking for practical, tried and true methods that work?

You wanted those pantry shelves filled yesterday, but the more you try, the more it seems a distant pipe dream. Online content is filled with impractical, untried homesteading advice, which wastes your precious time and money.

Everyday Homesteading steps in with practical, tested solutions, cutting through the chaos with clear plans tailored for busy beginners to reclaim your family’s health and independence through gardening, raising livestock, fresh seasonal cooking, herbal medicine and safe food preservation.

Hosted by veteran homesteaders, Josh and Carolyn Thomas, who grow 70% of their family’s food while running two businesses and homeschooling their large family, they have mastered practical homesteading for busy modern families. They have taught hundreds of thousands of new homesteaders to thrive with real-life homesteading through their online platforms Homesteading Family and School of Traditional Skills.

Tune in weekly to learn how to grow, cook, and preserve your family’s food, ditch health-destroying toxins, and save money monthly on groceries, all while building strong relationships and a sustainable legacy for your kids. Hit play now!

Home & Garden chart
#10
Episodes
307
Releases
Weekly
Typical length
35 min
On air since
2020
Latest episode
3 days ago

Episodes

307 episodes, newest first

  1. Confused About Healthy Cooking Fats? Start Here!

    Season 6, Episode 59

    Show notes

    Butter, lard, tallow, olive oil, vegetable oil... how did choosing a cooking fat get so confusing?

    After decades of changing recommendations about which fats we should and shouldn't eat, it's no wonder so many home cooks aren't sure what to reach for.

    In this episode of the Everyday Homesteading Podcast, I'm simplifying traditional cooking fats and explaining how to choose the right one for the job.

    From butter and ghee to lard, tallow, schmaltz, coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil, she'll walk you through what makes each fat different, where it comes from, and how to use it in everyday cooking.

    You'll also learn how different fats respond to heat, which ones work well for frying and baking, and how to substitute traditional fats for vegetable oils and shortening without changing all your favorite recipes.

    Plus, I share why producing and sourcing traditional fats is an important homesteading skill that can help build a more resilient kitchen.

    In This Episode:

    • Why our bodies need dietary fat
    • The differences between common traditional cooking fats
    • Which fats to choose for frying, roasting, baking, and dressings
    • Simple substitutions for vegetable oil and shortening
    • How to render and properly store animal fats
    • Why traditional fats matter for homestead self-sufficiency

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Traditional Cooking Fats Guide: https://homesteadingfamily.com/fat-sources-on-the-homestead/
    • Rendering Lard or Tallow: https://homesteadingfamily.com/rendering-lard-or-tallow/
    • Homemade Butter: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-make-butter/
    • Growing and Pressing Your Own Seed Oil: https://homesteadingfamily.com/growing-pressing-your-own-seed-oil/

    Today's Sponsor: Azure Standard

    You don't have to grow everything you put in your pantry! Azure Standard is one of our favorite resources for stocking up on bulk organic ingredients, pantry staples, and food-preservation supplies.

    First-time customers can save 15% on their first order of $100 or more delivered to an Azure drop location.

    Visit https://homesteadingfamily.com/azure-standard/ and use coupon code HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15 at checkout.

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    44 min
  2. Your Soil Needs to Breathe! | Soil Health Series Part 4

    Season 6, Episode 58

    Show notes

    Did you know your garden soil needs oxygen to thrive? 🌱 In Part 4 of our Soil Health Series, Josh explains why soil aeration is essential for healthy roots, beneficial microorganisms, and nutrient-rich soil.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    - 🌱 Why oxygen is essential for healthy garden soil.
    - ⚠️ How compaction, waterlogging, and tillage affect soil aeration.
    - 🪱 What healthy, well-aerated soil looks like.
    - 🍂 Simple ways to improve soil aeration with compost, cover crops, and mulch.

    📖 Read the full blog post: https://homesteadingfamily.com/soil-aeration/

    Check out Truly Free! Make the switch to cleaner household products and save 30% on your order with coupon code HOMESTEADING30: https://homesteadingfamily.com/trulyfree

    Time Stamps
    0:00 - Introduction
    1:12 - Truly Free
    3:10 - Main Topic

    #SoilHealth #SoilAeration #OrganicGardening #HomesteadingFamily

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    26 min
  3. We're Rethinking How We Homestead (Here's Why)

    Season 6, Episode 57

    Show notes

    Winter is coming, and we're rethinking some of the ways we do things on our homestead!

    As we transition from fall into winter here in North Idaho, we're looking at everything from livestock and food storage to daily chores and what it really means to become more self-sufficient.

    Whether you're new to homesteading or you've been doing this for years, we hope this conversation encourages you to rethink your priorities and embrace the season you're in.

    What's one thing you're rethinking or doing differently on your homestead this winter? Are you simplifying your livestock setup, changing how you preserve food, or finding new ways to become more self-sufficient?

    Let us know in the comments! We'd love to hear what you're learning.

    🌿 THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: FARMHOUSE TEAS

    We're thankful to have Farmhouse Teas sponsoring today's episode! We love their herbal teas, including their Not Coffee blends and the custom Plum Tuckered Out tea. This year, we're especially excited about their elderberry syrup mix, which makes preparing homemade elderberry syrup so much easier when there isn't time to forage for elderberries or measure out individual herbs.

    Shop all my favorites here and use coupon code "CAROLYN10" for 10% off your order (one-time use): https://www.farmhouseteas.com/carolyn

    #WinterHomesteading #HomesteadingFamily #SelfSufficiency #EverydayHomesteading #homesteadlife

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    43 min
  4. How I Reversed my Pre-Diabetes (Health Update)

    Season 6, Episode 56

    Show notes

    In this episode, I’m sharing a very personal update on my health journey and what I’ve learned along the way.

    What started as frustration over stubborn weight eventually led to deeper testing, toxin exposure, high insulin levels, leptin resistance, thyroid concerns, and a whole lot of questions.
    The good news is that I’m seeing real progress.

    My insulin numbers are coming down, I’ve lost weight, my energy is better, my brain fog is gone, I’m sleeping better, and I’m getting stronger.

    This journey hasn’t been simple or linear, but I hope sharing it encourages you to keep asking questions, pay attention to what your body is telling you, and keep moving toward better health.

    In this episode, I’m talking about:

    - What my lab work revealed
    - My experience with toxin testing and detoxification
    - How my insulin levels changed
    - What I’ve been doing to improve my metabolic health
    - The diet, herbs, movement, sleep, and lifestyle changes I’ve focused on
    - Why strength training is now part of my routine
    - What I’ve learned from discouraging lab results
    - Why I’m choosing to keep walking toward better health

    For more information, visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-im-reversing-prediabetes/

    RELATED RESOURCES:
    - Our Toxin Journey: https://homesteadingfamily.com/our-journey-with-glyphosate-toxicity/
    - Toxins are Making You Sick - Herbal Cleansing Detox: https://homesteadingfamily.com/herbal-cleansing-detox/
    - Common Household Toxins: https://homesteadingfamily.com/common-toxins/
    - Work with Dr. Torrie Thompson: https://homesteadingfamily.com/toxin-testing
    - At-home insulin/metabolic health kit: https://zivli.com/testing

    Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast.
    If you're ready to layer on some cozy bedding for those chilly fall nights, be sure to check them out and use coupon code HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026 for 15% off your purchase: https://homesteadingfamily.com/ABL

    Important: This episode shares my personal health experience and is not medical advice. Please work with a qualified healthcare professional when making decisions about your own health, medications, supplements, or treatment.

    Time Stamps:

    0:00 - Introduction
    1:08 - American Blossom Linens
    4:01 - Main Topic

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    27 min
  5. Crazy Gas Prices and Free Potatoes

    Season 6, Episode 55

    Show notes

    What do high gas prices have to do with free potatoes? More than you might think!

    When everyday expenses keep climbing, it’s easy to feel like there’s very little we can do about it. But Josh and I have found that growing food, cooking from scratch, and choosing our homestead projects carefully can help us take back a little control.

    In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we’re sharing the story of a $2,000 garden investment we made when money was tight, why we call this year’s potatoes “free,” and how we decide which projects are worth our time and money. And while Josh would start with the garden, I think there’s an important first step right in your kitchen!

    You don’t need a big property or an established homestead to begin. I hope this conversation encourages you to choose one practical step that serves your family today and helps you provide more for them in the years ahead.

    For more information and any links mentioned, visit the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/high-gas-prices-and-free-potatoes

    Time Stamps:

    0:00 - Introduction
    0:45 - Chit Chat
    7:34 - Grand Teton Ancient Grains
    10:11 - Main Topic

    Thanks to Grand Teton Ancient Grains for sponsoring this podcast. If you'd like to check them out and get a discount, use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY" for 10% off your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/ancientgrains

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    37 min
  6. The Secret to Healthier Soil? | Soil Health Part 3

    Season 6, Episode 54

    Show notes

    In Part 3 of our Soil Series, I’m diving into soil organic matter and why it’s one of the most important pieces of healthy, productive soil. We’ll look at what organic matter actually is, how it feeds soil biology, improves water retention and soil structure, and the practical ways you can build more of it with compost, mulch, cover crops and less tillage.

    For more information, read the full blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/soil-organic-matter/
    - Thanks to the School of Traditional Skills for sponsoring this episode! Their free Traditional Skills Summit is one of our favorite opportunities to learn from experienced homesteaders and traditional-skills instructors. Register for FREE here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/sts-summit

    Time Stamps:

    0:00 - Introduction
    0:53 - Traditional Skills Summit
    3:27 - Main Topic

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    34 min
  7. The Meat We Eat: How We Choose It, Buy It & Cook It

    Season 6, Episode 53

    Show notes

    If you’re trying to feed your family better-quality meat, it can be hard to know what all the labels really mean. Grass-fed, grass-finished, pasture-raised, organic... and once you bring that meat home, does it need to be cooked differently?

    In this episode, Josh and I are talking about the meat we eat here on our homestead and why the way an animal is raised and fed matters so much to us.

    We’ll explain the difference between grass-fed and grass-finished beef, what pasture-raised really means for chickens and pigs, and how you can start sourcing better meat without feeling like you have to make the jump to “perfect” overnight.

    Then we’re taking the conversation into the kitchen. I’ll share a simple way to think about different cuts of meat so you know whether to cook them hot and fast or low and slow. Once you understand whether you’re working with a tender or hardworking cut, cooking meat becomes much less complicated.

    We also talk about buying meat directly from local farmers, purchasing beef or pork in bulk, and why pasture-raised meat can have more variation in flavor and texture than what you may be used to from the grocery store.

    The goal isn’t perfection. It’s simply to take the next step toward better food for your family.

    Time Stamps:
    0:00 - Introduction & Chit Chat
    5:30 - Grand Teton Ancient Grains
    9:14 - Main Topic

    👉 Watch our podcast all about meat terminology and how to know what you're buying here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUB9x7QeoFM

    🌻 Keep your eyes on School of Traditional Skills for the upcoming class with the Doughertys on feeding your animals from your homestead:
    https://homesteadingfamily.com/STS_Member_n

    🌾 Thanks to Grand Teton Ancient Grains for sponsoring this podcast. Be sure to check out all their regeneratively grown grain and get 10% off your order with coupon code "homesteadingfamily" now through October 2026:
    https://homesteadingfamily.com/ancientgrains

    #EverydayHomesteading #GrassFedBeef #GrassFinishedBeef #PastureRaised #HomesteadingFamily #podcast #homesteadingpodcast

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    50 min
  8. How I Care for Myself (So I Can Take Care of Others)

    Season 6, Episode 52

    Show notes

    Self-care isn’t about escaping your responsibilities. It’s about caring for your body, mind, and soul so you can show up well for your family. In this episode, I share what self-care looks like in my own life, including my morning routine, health habits, and why true self-care should actually move you toward greater health.

    You can watch and read more at the blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/self-care-for-moms/

    TIME STAMPS:

    0:00 - Introduction
    1:04 - American Blossom Linens
    4:49 - Main Topic

    Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast. If you want to grab yourself some high-quality sheets that will last (and save some money doing so), be sure to use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" for 15% off your order. Check out all they have to offer here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/americanblossomlinens

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    36 min
  9. Late Summer Garden Tasks

    Season 6, Episode 51

    Show notes

    By late summer, the garden can start to feel a little wild. The weeds are growing fast, the harvest is piling up, watering needs are changing, and life outside the garden is getting busier, too.

    So what actually needs your attention right now, and what can you let go?

    In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we’re talking through our top priorities for the late summer garden. We’ll cover why harvesting should come first, how to adjust your watering as the season changes, what to do with bare garden beds, when to plant fall crops or cover crops, and how to keep weeds from creating more work next year.

    We also talk about something that’s just as important: learning to recognize when good enough really is good enough. You don’t need a perfectly tidy garden to have a successful season.

    Plus, we’re sharing what’s happening around our homestead right now, from preserving green beans and sauerkraut to fall pasture management, meat chickens, and preparing for the colder months ahead.

    LINKS MENTIONED:

    * Traditional Skills Academy Curriculum: https://traditionalskillsacademy.com/
    * Thanks to Azure Standard for sponsoring this podcast. If you're new to Azure Standard, be sure to check them out and use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15" for 15% off your first order of $100 or more (delivered to a drop location): https://homesteadingfamily.com/azurestandard
    * Grab a pre-order copy of David Stelzer's new book, Seeds of Hope here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/seedsofhope
    * Check out the accompanying blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/late-summer-garden-care/

    Whether your garden is still producing heavily or you’re starting to transition toward fall, we hope this episode helps you focus on the things that matter most and finish the gardening season well.

    What does your late summer garden look like right now? Let us know in the comments!

    TIME STAMPS:

    0:00 - Introduction
    1:17 - Chit Chat
    9:55 - Traditional Skills Academy
    11:10 - Azure Standard
    14:06 - Main Topic

    #Gardening #VegetableGarden #LateSummerGarden #FallGarden #GardenTips

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    42 min
  10. Your Soil Needs More Than NPK | Soil Health Part 2

    Season 6, Episode 50

    Show notes

    Healthy soil requires more than nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In Part 2 of our soil health series, we're taking a deeper look at the essential minerals plants need to grow strong, resist stress and produce truly nutrient-dense food.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    🪨 The difference between macronutrients and micronutrients
    🌱 How nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur support plant growth
    🔍 Common signs of mineral deficiencies
    🧪 Why soil pH and biology affect nutrient availability
    ♻️ Natural ways to restore minerals using compost, cover crops and targeted amendments
    ⚠️ Why you should test your soil before adding lime, gypsum, wood ash or other minerals

    Healthy soil does much of the heavy lifting for you. When minerals, organic matter, oxygen, water and soil biology work together, you can grow healthier plants and more nourishing food.

    Read the full blog post: 👉 https://homesteadingfamily.com/soil-minerals/

    Catch up on Part 1 of the soil series: 👉 https://homesteadingfamily.com/healthy-soil-starts-here/

    A special thanks to Grand Teton Ancient Grains for sponsoring this episode! Grand Teton Ancient Grains grows pure, unhybridized grains on a regenerative farm where soil health is a priority. Choose from spelt, khorasan, emmer and rye, all grown, tested and carefully protected from contamination from the field to the mill.

    Shop Grand Teton Ancient Grains and use coupon code HOMESTEADINGFAMILY for 10% off your order: 👉 https://homesteadingfamily.com/ancientgrains

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    38 min
  11. 6 Old-Fashioned Homemaking Habits That I Use Every Day

    Season 6, Episode 49

    Show notes

    Some of the best homemaking advice isn't new at all. Over the years, I've learned a lot from old household manuals, historical books and the way generations before us managed their homes. While I certainly love my modern conveniences, there are some old-fashioned practices that still make our household and homestead run so much more smoothly.

    In this episode, I'm sharing six that I still use today, including:

    🏡 Giving each day of the week a purpose
    🥕 Shopping the garden and pantry before the grocery store
    🍽️ Why we serve meals family style
    📅 Preparing tomorrow's needs today
    👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Teaching children to share in the work
    ✨ Ending the day with a simple house reset

    These aren't about creating a rigid schedule or keeping a perfectly clean home. They're simple rhythms that reduce decision fatigue, help everyone contribute and actually give our family more freedom.

    Read the full blog post here:
    https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-i-manage-our-home-household-management-series/

    What old-fashioned homemaking practice do you still use in your home?

    Time Stamps:
    0:00 - Introduction
    1:54 - American Blossom Linens
    5:25 - Main Topic

    Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast episode! Be sure to check out all their offerings, and use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" for 15% off your purchase: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linens

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    33 min
  12. Don't Make THESE Preserving Mistakes

    Season 6, Episode 48

    Show notes

    Preserving season can be incredibly rewarding, but when the garden is producing faster than you can keep up, it can also become overwhelming fast!

    Over the years, we've learned plenty of lessons the hard way about what makes harvest and food preservation season easier... and what makes it much harder than it needs to be.

    In this episode, we're sharing some of the biggest food preservation mistakes we've made and the practical habits that now help us manage the abundance without burning ourselves out.

    We'll talk about why you shouldn't wait until the produce piles up, how to choose the best preservation method for each food, preparing ahead for a preserving day, and why we always think about dinner before we start!

    We also discuss something that's easy to overlook: whether you're preserving food your family will actually eat and whether doing it yourself is truly saving you money.

    Whether you're putting up a few jars from the garden or preserving a year's worth of food, we hope these lessons make your harvest season a little easier.

    Check out the blog post for more information and any details mentioned: https://homesteadingfamily.com/tips-for-a-busy-preservation-day/

    Links Mentioned:
    - School of Traditional Skills Annual FREE Summit: Keep an eye out in future podcast episodes for a link to sign up for the free summit! We'll share it as soon as sign-ups are open!
    - Homestead Kitchen Magazine: https://homesteadingfamily.com/magazine
    - Carla Emery's Encyclopedia of Country Living: https://amzn.to/4fXywal

    Time Stamps:

    0:00 - Introduction
    1:30 - Chit Chat
    8:42 - Homestead Kitchen Magazine
    10:21 - Main Topic

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    30 min
  13. My Values Are Showing: The Quiet Power of a Home Well Lived

    Season 6, Episode 47

    Show notes

    Homesteading and homemaking are often treated as two separate pursuits, but what if they were never meant to be?

    In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I'm sharing why I believe homemaking is the true foundation of homesteading. From growing food and preserving the harvest to preparing meals and caring for my family, it's all part of the same purpose: creating a home that reflects our values and nurtures the people we love.

    If you've ever felt like you're trying to "balance" homemaking and homesteading, I hope this conversation encourages you to see them in a whole new light.

    📖 Read the companion blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/why-homemaking-is-the-foundation-of-homesteading/

    I'd love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and tell me: What has homemaking or homesteading been teaching you in this season?

    🌿 Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this episode! I love American Blossom Linens because their sheets are made from 100% USA-grown cotton, crafted entirely in the USA, and built to last for years to come. Visit American Blossom Linens and use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" to save 15% on your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linens

    I'd love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and tell me: What has homemaking or homesteading been teaching you in this season?

    Time Stamps:
    0:00 - Introduction
    1:49 - American Blossom Linens
    4:51 - Main Topic

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    26 min
  14. The Summer Slump in the Vegetable Garden (How We Survive!)

    Season 6, Episode 46

    Show notes

    Have you ever walked into your garden and felt completely overwhelmed? You're not alone! Every gardener reaches a point where the weeds seem to multiply overnight, the harvest starts piling up, and it feels like there's never enough time to keep up.

    In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we're sharing the practical routines, mindset shifts, and garden systems that have helped our family grow and preserve most of our food without burning out. From daily garden walks and harvesting routines to choosing your battles and letting go of perfection, these simple habits can help you enjoy your garden again.

    In this episode, we discuss:
    🌱 Why every garden has a "messy middle"
    🌱 How 20–30 minutes a day can transform your garden
    🌱 The difference between daily tasks and weekly project days
    🌱 Harvesting strategies that prevent overwhelm
    🌱 When it's time to let a struggling crop go
    🌱 Why observation is one of the most valuable gardening skills
    🌱 Creating systems that make gardening easier every year

    Helpful Resources:
    🌿 Avoid Garden Overwhelm: https://homesteadingfamily.com/avoiding-garden-overwhelm/
    🌿 How to Keep Weeds Out of the Garden: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-keep-weeds-out-of-garden/
    💧 Best Time to Water Your Garden: https://homesteadingfamily.com/best-time-to-water-garden/
    🌱 No-Till Gardening: https://homesteadingfamily.com/is-no-till-gardening-right-for-you/
    🌱 Lasagna Gardening: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-use-the-lasagna-gardening-method-or-layering-method/

    🛒 Thanks to Azure Standard for sponsoring this video. Save 15% on your first Azure Standard order of $100+ with coupon code HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15 (orders sent to a drop location only): https://homesteadingfamily.com/azure-standard-yt

    Timestamps
    00:00 – Introduction
    02:00 – Chit Chat
    10:14 – Azure Products We Buy
    13:40 – Main Topic

    If this episode encouraged you, we'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who's feeling overwhelmed by their garden this season. Growing food doesn't require perfection—just simple systems and steady progress.

    #gardening #vegetablegarden #gardentips #homesteading #gardenmaintenance #growyourownfood

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    46 min
  15. Stop Poisoning Your Soil: It's Worse Than You Think!

    Season 6, Episode 45

    Show notes

    Healthy soil doesn't happen by accident. It starts with protecting the living ecosystem beneath your feet.

    In this first teaching episode of my Soil Health series, I'm sharing why keeping your soil chemical-free is the foundation for everything else we'll cover. Whether you're growing vegetables, fruit trees, flowers, or pasture, the health of your soil determines the health of your plants.

    We'll look at how herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, and synthetic fertilizers affect the beneficial biology living in your soil and why quick fixes often create bigger problems over time. I'll also explain how healthy soil naturally becomes more resilient, helping your plants better withstand pests, disease, and drought.

    If you've ever struggled with weak plants, poor harvests, or garden problems that seem to come back year after year, this episode will help you understand why the solution starts below the surface.

    In this episode, you'll learn:
    • Why a chemical-free foundation is the first step to healthy soil
    • How common garden chemicals impact beneficial soil life
    • Why healthy soil is a living ecosystem, not just dirt
    • Simple steps you can take to begin restoring your soil naturally

    This is Part 1 of my Soil Health series, so if you're ready to grow healthier, more nutrient-dense food while working with nature instead of against it, you're in the right place.

    For the companion blog post, visit: https://homesteadingfamily.com/healthy-soil-starts-here/

    And if you missed the introduction to the series, you can catch that here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-improve-soil-quality/

    Thanks for listening to Everyday Homesteading. I'll see you in the next episode as we explore the next building block of healthy soil: minerals.

    Thanks to Homestead Kitchen magazine for sponsoring this podcast. Grab your copy of this monthly print magazine here and start enjoying homesteading knowledge, tips and recipes in the palm of your hands: https://homesteadingfamily.com/in-the-homestead-kitchen-yt

    Time Stamps:
    0:00 - Introduction
    1:12 - Homestead Kitchen Magazine
    3:22 - Main Topic

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    28 min
  16. The Missing Piece of Modern Homesteading

    Season 6, Episode 44

    Show notes

    Have you ever stopped to consider that caring for the land isn't just a homesteading skill, but part of our Christian calling?

    In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I'm joined by Brendan McClenahan from Plant With Purpose and the TEND Initiative to explore what the Bible says about stewardship, creation, and why growing food can deepen our faith.

    For many Christians, conversations about caring for the earth have become complicated. But long before environmental movements existed, God gave humanity the responsibility to cultivate and care for His creation. Together, Brendan and I discuss how homesteading, gardening, and working the land aren't separate from our faith. They're one of the ways we live it out.

    We also talk about why true self-sufficiency is a myth, how community has always been part of God's design, and practical ways churches and families can reconnect with creation through simple acts like gardening, composting, and supporting local farmers.

    If you've ever wondered how your faith and your homestead fit together, I think this conversation will encourage you.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    ✔ What the Bible says about stewarding God's creation
    ✔ Why Christians shouldn't avoid conversations about creation care
    ✔ How gardening and homesteading can strengthen your faith
    ✔ Why self-sufficiency isn't God's design for His people
    ✔ Practical ways to build community through caring for the land

    Time Stamps:
    0:00 – Introduction
    2:21 – Homestead Kitchen Magazine
    4:25 – Main Topic

    Resources Mentioned:
    📖 Read the companion blog post: https://homesteadingfamily.com/biblical-stewardship-of-the-land/
    🌱 Learn more about the TEND Initiative: https://tendlife.org
    📰 Subscribe to Homestead Kitchen Magazine: https://homesteadingfamily.com/in-the-homestead-kitchen-yt

    If this episode encouraged you, I'd love it if you'd subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with someone who has a heart for growing food, stewarding God's creation, and building a resilient home.

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    54 min
  17. 8 Reasons Your Canning Jars Didn't Seal

    Season 6, Episode 43

    Show notes

    Have you ever finished a canning session only to discover one or more jars didn't seal? It happens to every home canner at some point, and even after more than 20 years of canning and preserving food for my family, I still have an occasional seal failure.

    In this video, I'm sharing the most common reasons canning jars don't seal, how to troubleshoot failed seals, and what you should do if you find an unsealed jar. We'll also cover simple habits that can help you prevent seal failures in future canning sessions so you can preserve your harvest with more confidence.

    In this video you'll learn:

    ✔ The most common reasons canning jars don't seal
    ✔ How to tell if a jar has sealed properly
    ✔ How headspace, siphoning, and dirty rims affect your seal
    ✔ Why overtightening bands can cause problems
    ✔ What to do if a jar doesn't seal within 24 hours
    ✔ When it's safe to refrigerate, freeze, or reprocess your food
    ✔ Why I always remove screw bands before storing my jars

    For even more troubleshooting tips, read the companion blog post here:
    https://homesteadingfamily.com/why-didnt-my-canning-jars-seal/

    Time Stamps:

    0:00 – Introduction
    1:22 – American Blossom Linens
    3:39 – Why Canning Jars Don't Seal

    This episode is sponsored by American Blossom Linens. Josh and I love investing in quality products that are made to last, and American Blossom Linens fits that philosophy perfectly. Their sheets, towels, blankets, and pillows are all made in the USA from high-quality cotton and backed by a two-year return policy. Use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" to save 15% on your order here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linens/

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    32 min
  18. How I Preserve a Year's Worth of Food Without Burnout

    Season 6, Episode 42

    Show notes

    Are you working yourself to exhaustion trying to preserve every possible food for your pantry? I used to think a successful pantry meant recreating the grocery store at home. But after more than 20 years of homesteading, I've learned that's one of the fastest ways to burn out.

    In this video, I'm sharing the mindset shift that completely changed the way I preserve food. Instead of asking, "What do I want to eat?" I started asking, "What preserves well?" That one simple change has saved me countless hours while helping me build a pantry that's practical, resilient, and full of nourishing food my family actually uses.

    In this episode, you'll learn:
    ✔ Why treating your pantry like a grocery store leads to unnecessary work and burnout
    ✔ The foods I make a priority to preserve every year
    ✔ How root cellaring and fermentation can dramatically reduce your preserving workload
    ✔ When it's actually smarter to buy food that's already preserved
    ✔ How to build a seasonal pantry that saves time, money, and effort

    ⏰ Time Stamps
    0:00 - Introduction
    1:24 - Azure Standard
    4:47 - Main Topic

    📚 Resources Mentioned
    Stop Treating Your Pantry Like a Grocery Store:
    https://homesteadingfamily.com/stop-treating-your-pantry-like-a-grocery-store/

    Food Preservation: A Year at a Glance:
    https://homesteadingfamily.com/food-preservation-a-year-at-a-glance/

    Root Cellaring for Beginners:
    https://homesteadingfamily.com/preservation-101-root-cellaring/

    Eating Seasonally on the Homestead:
    https://homesteadingfamily.com/meal-planning-on-the-homestead/

    This episode is sponsored by Azure Standard, one of Josh's and my favorite sources for bulk foods, pantry staples, organic produce, garden supplies, livestock feed, and hard-to-find homesteading essentials. We especially appreciate that they now offer home delivery in many areas, making it even easier to stock up on the quality products we rely on. If you're looking for a trusted source for homesteading supplies, be sure to check them out using the link below. And for first-time customers, you can use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY15" for 15% off your FIRST order of $100 or more, shipped to a drop location: https://homesteadingfamily.com/main-azure-standard-b

    👇 I'd love to hear from you: What's one food you no longer preserve because you've realized it simply isn't worth the time? Or what's one thing you'll never stop preserving yourself? Share your answer in the comments!

    #FoodPreservation #Homesteading #PantryStorage #FoodStorage #Canning #SelfSufficiency

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    24 min
  19. Our Daughter is Running the Garden!

    Season 6, Episode 41

    Show notes

    What does it really look like to manage a large homestead garden? In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, I'm joined by my oldest daughter, Rachel, who has taken over management of our main crop garden this year. We sit down for a candid conversation about what's working, what we're learning, and a few garden bloopers that prove even experienced gardeners don't always get it right!

    Rachel shares what it means to be responsible for a garden without having to do all the labor herself, how we're involving younger children in the garden, and some of the systems we're putting in place to make gardening easier and more sustainable year after year.

    We also talk about sprinkler timers, compost surprises, cats in freshly planted beds, and Rachel's best advice for both new and experienced gardeners.

    In this episode, we cover:

    🌱 How our family manages the main crop garden together
    🌱 The difference between responsibility and doing all the work yourself
    🌱 Practical ways to involve children of all ages in the garden
    🌱 New watering systems we're testing this season
    🌱 Garden mistakes, lessons learned, and funny stories from this year
    🌱 Rachel's top tips for staying on top of your garden without feeling overwhelmed

    One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation is Rachel's reminder that daily observation is one of the most valuable gardening habits you can develop. A few minutes walking through the garden each day can help you catch problems early, harvest crops at the right time, and enjoy the process a whole lot more.

    🛏️ American Blossom Linens - Thanks to American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast. We love their products because they're designed to last for years and are backed by an impressive 2-year money-back guarantee. They're also made with a focus on reducing unnecessary chemicals and toxins in the products you use every day. Use coupon code "HOMESTEADINGFAMILY2026" for 15% off your order: https://homesteadingfamily.com/s-american-blossom-linens

    Time Stamps:
    0:00 - Introduction
    1:13 - Chit Chat
    5:26 - Homestead Kitchen Magazine
    8:23 - Soil Health

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/HomesteadingFamily

    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    35 min
  20. The Truth About Soil Health (And Why It Changes Everything)

    Season 6, Episode 40

    Show notes

    What if the secret to healthier plants, bigger harvests, fewer pests, and less work in the garden isn't another fertilizer or amendment? What if it's your soil?

    In this episode of Everyday Homesteading, we're kicking off a brand-new Soil School series by exploring the foundation of every productive garden: healthy soil. You'll learn why soil is much more than dirt, how a thriving soil ecosystem works, and the six key elements that create resilient, nutrient-dense gardens.

    Over the next several months, Josh will be diving deeper into each of these topics in a special Soil School series designed to help you build healthier soil and work smarter, not harder, in the garden.

    In this episode:
    🌱 Why healthy soil is the key to healthier plants
    🪱 The surprising amount of life living beneath your feet
    💧 How healthy soil improves water retention
    🐛 Why soil health can reduce pest and disease pressure
    🌿 The four levels of soil health
    🧑‍🌾 The six foundations of healthy soil

    Whether you're a beginner gardener or have been growing food for years, this series will help you understand how to build living soil that works for you.

    Check out the accompanying blog post here: https://homesteadingfamily.com/how-to-improve-soil-quality/

    This episode is sponsored by Homestead Kitchen Magazine. If you're passionate about from-scratch cooking, preserving the harvest, and building a thriving homestead centered around the kitchen, you'll love Homestead Kitchen Magazine. Filled with practical recipes, traditional skills, seasonal inspiration, and beautiful ad-free content, it's designed to help you build confidence in the kitchen and strengthen the connection between your garden, pantry, and table. https://homesteadingfamily.com/in-the-homestead-kitchen-yt

    Time Stamps:
    0:00 - Introduction
    1:13 - Chit Chat
    5:26 - Homestead Kitchen Magazine
    8:23 - Soil Health

    #Gardening #SoilHealth #OrganicGardening

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    MORE ABOUT US!

    WELCOME! We're so glad you're here! We are Josh and Carolyn Thomas. Together with our eleven children, we are The Homesteading Family where we’re living a self-sustainable life in beautiful North Idaho. Let us welcome you and show you a bit about us here: http://bit.ly/HFWelcomeVideo

    Grow, Preserve & Thrive with us!
    Visit us on our blog: https://www.homesteadingfamily.com/
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/homesteadingfamily
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/homesteadingfamily
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    A few highlights you don't want to miss are our FREEBIES!!

    Healthy Healing at Home – Learn how to confidently use herbal medicine in your home with this FREE 4 video workshop: https://homesteadingfamily.com/HHHyt

    Your Best Loaf – A Free 4 video workshop teaching you how to make great bread at home, every time, regardless of the recipe you are using: https://homesteadingfamily.com/free-bread-workshop

    Become a master canner in just a few days with my FREE video series where together we are going to stock your shelves with amazing food the whole family will love.

    29 min