Simply Living Homestead | Homemaking, Rhythms, Organization, Time Management, Simplify, Systems

Your pasture is ready and your fencing is up—now let’s talk shelter, gear, and what your milking space really needs to look like. In Part 2 of our Homestead Dairy series, we’re digging into the practical setup: shelter, milking areas, must-have gear, and how to choose the right equipment for your setup. Whether you’re planning to hand milk or invest in a system, this episode is all about making your space functional, comfortable, and sustainable for the long haul. Main Themes/Topics Covered: Shelter Needs – 3-sided shelters, milking spaces, and how to prep for storms and winter weather. Gear You Actually Need – From buckets and teat dip to strainers and towels. Milking Methods – Pros and cons of hand milking vs. mechanical systems (and what we use in a pinch). Next Steps – Researching breeds, sourcing healthy animals, and preparing for the right cow for your family are coming in the next episode. Adding a cow means building systems that work for you. Start small, start smart, and create a setup that honors your capacity and grows with your homestead. Got questions about milking setups or starting a micro dairy? I’d love to help. Email me at [email protected] and let’s chat—it’s free.

So, you're dreaming of fresh milk, homemade butter, and a cow in your pasture—but are you really ready for what that takes? In this Homestead Dairy series, we’re breaking down everything you need to think through before your cow ever arrives. This episode focuses on the daily time commitment, what it really means to add a dairy rhythm to your life, and how to prepare your land, pasture, and fencing. If you’re in the dreaming or planning stage, start here to avoid overwhelm and burnout down the road. This is a 4 Part series, But because I am a talker, Episode 1 is broken into 2 Parts, so now its a 5 part series! See you next week for the second part of "How to Prepare for a Dairy Cow" Main Themes/Topics Covered: The Daily Commitment – Why dairy is a lifestyle, not just an animal. Time Boundaries – Milking means showing up every day, no matter the weather or holiday. Land & Fencing Prep – How much pasture you need, fencing options, and hay planning for winter. Real Talk on Self-Sufficiency – Why your cow will shape your daily life and how to prepare your mindset before she arrives. If you’ve been dreaming of a milk cow, this is where you begin. Let’s talk about what you really need to be ready for the work and joy of dairy life. Got questions or need help thinking through your setup? I’d love to hear from you! Email me at [email protected]

Have you ever walked away from a parenting moment thinking… “That’s not the kind of mom I want to be”? Yeah. Me too. In this episode, I want to open up about how we’re learning to speak life—not shame—over our son. Words carry power—especially in motherhood. Today, we’re talking about the impact our language has on our children, particularly when the days are hard and emotions run high. I’m sharing a raw look into our family’s story: how we moved from yelling and seeking control to choosing connection and understanding. Through occupational therapy, mindset shifts, and a whole lot of grace, we’ve learned to approach parenting with a new heart—and new tools. If you’ve ever felt stuck in reaction mode or grieved the way you responded, this one’s for you. Main Themes/Topics Covered: Honest reflections on parenting before the shift: yelling, reacting, and seeking control Eye-opening moments through our child’s neurodivergent diagnosis How occupational therapy changed the way we parent—and see our child The powerful mindset shift from control to connection, and shame to support Practical tools we’ve adopted: time-ins, emotional regulation, helpful scripts, and sensory awareness Encouragement for the mom who’s trying, failing, learning, and trying again Mama, if your heart feels heavy today, I want you to hear this: you’re not alone, and you’re not failing. You’re learning. You’re growing. Your voice—gentle, grounded, and grace-filled—has the power to shape your child’s world in beautiful ways. If this episode spoke to you, would you share it with another mama who needs the reminder? I’d love to hear your heart. Your struggles, your questions, your victories. Send me a note at [email protected]—you’re not walking this alone Find Me Online: 🌿 Website: www.SimplyLivingHomestead.com 🌿 Facebook & Instagram: @thesimplylivinghomestead

Ever wonder how a homesteading mama gets it all done—from milking cows to managing a business—without losing her mind? Today’s episode is a special one, thanks to a sweet listener named Cherish who asked for a behind-the-scenes look at what a typical day looks like for me here at Simply Living Homestead. From early-morning Bible study and farm chores to homeschooling, content creation, and family rhythms, I’m sharing how I time-block my days, where I make room for grace, and how I stay grounded in the midst of a full life. Whether you’re wrangling kids, cows, or both, I hope this episode gives you a little encouragement—and maybe even a few practical ideas to bring peace and structure into your own routine. Main Themes/Topics Covered: My morning routine: Bible study, chores, and getting the house moving Midday rhythm: housework, farm projects, lunch, and a focused work block Content creation and business tasks woven into homestead life Evening routines: shared chores, supper, bedtime with kids, and quiet evening moments How I balance productivity with grace and flexibility Encouragement for mamas managing full, beautiful, and imperfect days No matter how full your days are, you’re allowed to pause, breathe, and make space for both purpose and peace. If this episode gave you a new idea or a little encouragement, would you send it to a fellow homesteading mama? Have a question about how I structure something—or want to share your own rhythm? I’d love to hear from you! Send me a message at [email protected]. Find Me Online: 🌿 Website: www.SimplyLivingHomestead.com 🌿 Facebook & Instagram: @thesimplylivinghomestead

Homesteading is often celebrated as a path toward doing everything yourself. But what if that very mindset is what’s wearing you down? Today, let’s talk about redefining self-sufficiency and how true sustainability grows in the soil of community. In this heartfelt episode, I’m unpacking why I’ve grown uncomfortable with the term “self-sufficiency”—not because the goal is wrong, but because the mindset can sometimes lead us toward isolation and burnout. From my upbringing in a family-style compound community to my current homestead life, I’ve seen both sides. We’ll talk about the warning signs of burnout, how to ask for help without guilt, and practical ways to build organic, local community around you. If you’ve ever felt like you have to do it all to “count” as a real homesteader, this conversation will challenge and encourage you. We were never meant to do this alone. Main Themes/Topics Covered: Why “self-sufficiency” often gets misunderstood—and how to reframe it Personal stories from growing up in community and what that taught me Warning signs of burnout from doing too much on your own Practical ways to ask for help and start building real-life homesteading friendships Creative community ideas: bartering, workday swaps, tool libraries, and more Mindset shifts like: “Community makes the work lighter and the joy deeper” Maybe it’s time to take one small step—reach out to that neighbor, say yes when help is offered, or host a simple work swap day. You might be surprised by how much beauty is found in shared work and friendship. Tell me about a moment when community made all the difference in your homesteading journey. Email me at [email protected]—I’d be honored to hear your story. Find Me Online: 🌿 Website: www.SimplyLivingHomestead.com 🌿 Facebook & Instagram: @thesimplylivinghomestead Sign Up for Raw Dairy in Central Iowa HERE Get the Newsletter HERE SHOW NOTES

In today’s episode, we’re talking about the beautifully chaotic reality of raising littles while running a homestead (or trying to get anything done, really). I’m joined by my dear friend Leslie to have an honest, grace-filled conversation for the mamas in the thick of it—whether you’re balancing chores and children, business and babywearing, or faith and fatigue. We’ll share the real-life struggle of feeling pulled in all directions, the guilt of not “doing enough,” and the surprising ways we’ve found joy and purpose in the middle of it all. You’re not behind, Mama—this is the work. And God meets us right here, at the kitchen sink and the chicken coop, with children tugging at our skirts. What it’s really like trying to be productive with little ones around How to shift your mindset and routines to find small wins and creative solutions (hello, toy buckets in the barn!) Encouragement to let go of perfection and lean into presence A conversation about faith in the chaos—and how interruptions can be holy invitations Practical tips for including kids in the work (without losing your mind) Closing challenge: Invite your children into one task this week and watch what happens If this episode encouraged you, share it with a fellow mama who’s doing the hard and holy work of raising kids while homesteading or working from home. Your presence matters more than your productivity. Tell me your best (or most chaotic!) story of trying to homestead with littles underfoot. I’d love to hear from you at [email protected]. On Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead Sign Up for Raw Dairy in Central Iowa HERE Get the Newsletter HERE SHOW NOTES

For many of us, our children are the reason we started homesteading. But in the daily grind of chores and projects, it’s easy to overlook the greatest gift we’ve been given—our little ones. So how do we actually bring them into the skills we’re building, in ways that feel joyful, not stressful? This episode is an invitation to slow down and welcome your kids into the traditional skills you’re learning on the homestead. Whether your children are toddlers who mimic your every move or preteens ready to take on real responsibility, we’re talking about how to meet them where they are and give them space to grow. I’ll share how my own son, who’s always underfoot, became my favorite farm helper—and what my dad taught me about the beauty of letting kids fail. We break down age-appropriate ideas and activities for toddlers, early elementary kids, and older children. From collecting eggs and helping with feed, to tracking chores and learning to preserve food, you’ll hear dozens of simple, doable ways to help your kids build confidence, connect to the land, and feel a sense of belonging on the homestead. Along the way, I’ll remind you that this isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, and planting seeds of wonder and work ethic for the next generation. Let your kids try. Let them mess up. Let them grow. This might be your dream—but it can become their legacy too. If this episode encouraged you, share it with another homesteading parent, or leave a review so more families can find this podcast. Got a story or question to share? I’d love to hear it. Reach out at [email protected]—I’d love to hear how your kids are learning alongside you. On Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead Sign Up for Raw Dairy in Central Iowa HERE Get the Newsletter HERE SHOW NOTES

When there is so much to do in your home, on your homestead, and with your children every day—how do you find time to be still? Even when your heart craves a slower pace, life rarely slows down on its own. In this episode, I’m sharing the real-life story of how I stumbled into stillness through blogging, and how it became a practice that grounded me in motherhood and homesteading. You’ll hear why rest isn’t lazy, but actually deeply spiritual—and how God uses stillness to meet us right where we are. We’ll talk about why stillness matters—not as another task on your list, but as a rhythm that nourishes your soul. From feeling guilty about rest to struggling with mental clutter or time scarcity, we’ll name the challenges and share simple, grace-filled ways to make space for peace. Whether it’s five minutes of silence, a quiet chair in the corner, or a walk with your kids—this episode offers practical encouragement rooted in Scripture and real life. Scriptures Shared: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.” Exodus 33:14 – “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to Me, all who are weary…” Luke 5:16 – “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything… a time to be silent and a time to speak.” Stillness isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. If today’s episode gave you space to breathe a little deeper, share it with a friend who might need that same reminder. Want to suggest a topic for a future episode? Leave a review or message me—I’d love to hear from you! Send your thoughts or topic ideas to [email protected]—I always love hearing from you. On Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead Sign Up for Raw Dairy in Central Iowa HERE Get the Newsletter HERE SHOW NOTES

When there is so much to do in your home, on your homestead, and with your children every day—how do you find time to be still? Even when your heart craves a slower pace, life rarely slows down on its own. In this episode, I’m sharing how learning to be mindful and still grounded me in motherhood and homesteading. You’ll hear why rest isn’t lazy, but actually deeply spiritual—and how God uses stillness to meet us right where we are. We’ll talk about why stillness matters—not as another task on your list, but as a rhythm that nourishes your soul. From feeling guilty about rest to struggling with mental clutter or time scarcity, we’ll name the challenges and share simple, grace-filled ways to make space for peace. Whether it’s five minutes of silence, a quiet chair in the corner, or a walk with your kids—this episode offers practical encouragement rooted in Scripture and real life. SHOW NOTES Scriptures Shared: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.” Exodus 33:14 – “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to Me, all who are weary…” Luke 5:16 – “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything… a time to be silent and a time to speak.” Stillness isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. If today’s episode gave you space to breathe a little deeper, share it with a friend who might need that same reminder. Want to suggest a topic for a future episode? Leave a review or message me—I’d love to hear from you! Send your thoughts or topic ideas to [email protected]—I always love hearing from you. [email protected] On Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead Sign Up for Raw Dairy in Central Iowa HERE Get the Newsletter HERE SHOW NOTES

SHOW NOTES Today’s episode comes from listener homemaker_beus, who writes: "I’m so glad Amanda is doing this podcast! She sounds like a genuine friend and gives such good insight into homesteading. Keep it up! And please share any tips for raising backyard chickens (for beginners like me!)." If you’d like to suggest a topic, leave a comment or review on Apple Podcasts! Backyard chickens are more popular than ever, but where do you start? Whether you’re hatching your own chicks, picking them up from a farm store, or just dreaming of fresh eggs, this episode walks you through the essentials of chicken keeping. Topics Covered: Must-know facts about chickens Setting up a brooder for baby chicks Building a safe and functional chicken coop Integrating new chicks with an existing flock Troubleshooting common flock issues Keeping chickens is rewarding, but it does require some planning and care. By the end of this episode, you’ll have the confidence to start (or improve) your backyard flock! Resources & Connect: Send me your chicken-related questions at [email protected]. Follow along on Instagram & Facebook: @thesimplylivinghomestead Visit www.SimplyLivingHomestead.com Don’t forget to leave a review and let me know what homesteading topics you’d love to hear next!

SHOW NOTES Are you ready to add animals to your homestead? Whether you’re looking to produce your own food or just love the idea of having livestock, choosing the right first animal is an important decision. Today, we’re breaking down different homestead animals, their pros and cons, and what you need to consider when starting out. A common question in the homesteading community is: Which animal is the best to start with? The truth is, no animal is inherently easy—each comes with its own requirements, rewards, and challenges. Instead of looking for the “easiest” option, think about the level of care, space, and time commitment each animal requires. In today’s episode, we’ll walk through beginner-friendly animals, intermediate livestock, and milk-producing animals so you can make an informed decision for your homestead. Main Topics Covered: Beginner Animals (Low Cost, Low Input, Small Space): Chickens – Easy care, egg and meat production, but require predator-proofing. Ducks – Hardy birds that lay in winter, but need a water source and can be messy. Rabbits – Small space, great meat source, and produce amazing manure for the garden. Intermediate Animals (More Space, Fencing, Higher Input): Pigs – Fast growers and land clearers, but require strong fencing. Goats – Great for brush clearing, but known escape artists! Sheep – Gentle and pasture-based, but need rotational grazing to avoid parasites. Beef Cows – Provide a large meat yield but require more land and feed. Bees – Small space, honey production, and pollination benefits, but high startup costs. Milking Animals (High Commitment, Equipment, and Space): Dairy Goats – Smaller and easier to manage than cows but require daily milking and parasite management. Dairy Cows – Large milk supply for butter, cheese, and yogurt, but need a lot of space and feed. Fiber Sheep (Optional) – Produce wool for fiber arts but require shearing and pest control. Connect with Me: 📧 Email: [email protected] 📍 Facebook & Instagram: @thesimplylivinghomestead 🌐 Website: www.SimplyLivingHomestead.com

SHOW NOTES Does your family eat together often? Sitting down for a meal is a powerful way to slow down and connect, but if you haven’t made it a habit, where do you start? Today, we’re talking about the art of gathering your family around the table—and practical tips to make it a consistent and enjoyable routine. I grew up in a family that valued eating meals together, and as I prepared for this episode, I came across some fascinating statistics on family dinners. Studies show that families who eat together experience less stress, make healthier food choices, and even spend more quality time together. But with busy schedules and different routines, how do you make it happen? In this episode, we’ll explore simple ways to make family meals a priority, including meal planning, setting routines, and getting everyone involved. Main Topics Covered: Planning Your Meals: Taking time to plan meals reduces stress, ensures you have the right ingredients, and helps set realistic expectations for sit-down meals each week. Involving kids in meal prep and table setting also makes them feel included. Creating a Routine: A consistent dinnertime helps the whole family know what to expect. Whether it’s through a starting ritual like prayer, gratitude, or conversation cards, setting a routine makes meals smoother and more meaningful. Getting Everyone Involved in Cleanup: Even the smallest hands can help clear the table or wash dishes. When everyone pitches in, clean-up is quick, easy, and part of the shared experience. Connect with Me: Email: [email protected] Facebook & Instagram: @thesimplylivinghomestead Website: www.SimplyLivingHomestead.com Show Notes Resources: Family Dinner Statistics: Instacart Report Conversation Starters: Talking Point Cards

SHOW NOTES Over the past two weeks, we’ve talked about planning and starting a garden in the spring. Today, we’re shifting focus to food preservation—what I put up for the winter and when I harvest different foods throughout the year. My goal is to give you insight into when things are ready and what you can incorporate into your own garden and homestead! Preserving food isn’t just about stocking up—it’s about knowing what’s in season, when to harvest, and the best methods for storing food to last through the winter. This episode breaks down seasonal preservation, from spring’s fresh eating to fall’s big canning projects, helping you build a year-round food supply that fits your family’s needs. Key Topics: Spring: Light preservation—blanching and freezing early crops like lettuce, radishes, broccoli, and strawberries. Summer: The busiest time for preservation—canning, freezing, and dehydrating vegetables like tomatoes, green beans, and cucumbers, plus berries and melons. Fall: Harvesting and storing root crops, squash, apples, and pears for winter use. Winter: Processing anything left over from the growing season that was frozen for later canning or preserving. Have a favorite preservation method or a family tradition for putting up food? Share your experiences in the comments! Let’s chat about all things food preservation! Email me at [email protected], Find me on Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead.

SHOW NOTES Think you need a big backyard to grow your own food? Think again! In this episode, we’re talking about practical ways to garden in small spaces—whether you live in an apartment, have a tiny backyard, or just want to make the most of every inch of soil. Many people dream of growing food but feel limited by their space. Today, we’re diving into creative ways to make gardening work—no matter where you live! Whether it’s filling flower beds with vegetables, growing vertically with trellises and stacking pots, or using grow lights indoors, there’s always a way to produce fresh food. I also share insights on how to connect with local farmers for bulk produce and preserving opportunities. If you’re ready to turn even the smallest space into a thriving garden, this episode is for you! Main Topics Covered: Making the most of what you have—using flower beds, front yards, porches, and containers Vertical gardening: stacking pots, trellises, and shelves to maximize space The best crops for small-space gardening, from strawberries to tomatoes Growing food indoors with grow lights for year-round harvests Special techniques for small spaces—potato towers, staggered planting, and compact crop varieties How to connect with local farmers to buy in bulk, rent space, or trade labor for produce Big thanks to Leslie for requesting this topic! If you have a question or an idea for a future episode, send me an email at [email protected]—I’d love to hear from you! Connect with Me: Email: [email protected] Facebook & Instagram: @thesimplylivinghomestead Website: www.Simplylivinghomestead.com

SHOW NOTES What if your garden could feed your family, slash your grocery bill, and make weed control easier—all at the same time? In this episode, I sit down with Clyde Majerus, a Master Gardener from the Missouri Ozarks, at the Homesteaders of Iowa Expo. Clyde shares the time-tested gardening wisdom that allowed his family to feed multiple generations. We talk about the real financial benefits of homegrown food, why expanding your diet can transform the way you garden, and how strategic mulching and soil care can set you up for success. From choosing the right manure to tackling invasive weeds, Clyde’s insights will help you grow more food with less effort. Main Topics Covered: 🌱 How a backyard garden can feed a family and save thousands of dollars 🌱 The best mulch alternatives beyond wood chips, including cottonseed hulls and straw 🌱 How different manures impact soil health—and why cow manure might be fueling your weeds 🌱 The surprising benefits of solarizing your soil to eliminate invasive grass 🌱 Why talking to experienced gardeners can save you years of trial and error 🌱 The importance of trying new vegetables—like Hilton cabbage and arugula—to maximize your harvest 🌱 How Clyde’s Garden Planner makes it easy to track planting dates and frost schedules Click HERE to sign up for our giveaway of Clyde's Garden Calender! You could be one of 3 Lucky Winners! Enter The Giveaway! Connect with Me: Got a gardening question or tip? Send me an email at [email protected]—I’d love to hear from you! Want to plan your garden with confidence? Check out Clyde’s Garden Planner, a simple tool that helps you track planting dates based on your local frost schedule. https://www.clydesvegetableplantingchart.com/ You can find me at [email protected] On Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead Or on my Website www.Simplylivinghomestead.com

SHOW NOTES Last week, we covered the first steps to building a new garden. This week, we’re diving into what makes a garden truly successful and stress-free. A thriving garden isn’t just about planting seeds—it’s about creating a system that works with nature, not against it. Today, we’ll tackle common gardening challenges like water management, weeds, and pests, plus explore essential additions like supports, compost, and greenhouses. Key Topics: Managing water levels to prevent overwatering or drought stress Keeping weeds under control naturally Protecting plants from bugs and pests organically Adding garden supports, compost, and protective structures Want to get the most out of your garden this season? You can find me at [email protected] On Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead Or on my Website www.Simplylivinghomestead.com

SHOW NOTE Are you new to homesteading and itching to start a garden this spring? Whether you're a beginner or a few years into growing your own food, this episode will help you lay the foundation for a successful garden. Gardening season is just around the corner! Today, we’re breaking down the first steps to starting a new garden—from choosing the right location to planning your seeds and setting up a watering system. Plus, I’ll share lessons learned from my own gardening journey and family traditions. Key Topics: Planning your garden layout: in-ground vs. raised beds Choosing and organizing seeds for planting Setting up an efficient watering system Have gardening tips or questions? I’d love to hear from you! You can find me at [email protected] On Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead Or on my Website www.Simplylivinghomestead.com

SHOW NOTES - Print your maple syrup recipe here! Want to enjoy real maple syrup without the high cost? Let’s talk about how to buy in bulk and preserve it for long-term storage! It’s late February, which means maple syrup season is here! Whether you tap your own trees or not, you can still take advantage of the harvest. In this episode, I’ll share how to find bulk maple syrup at better prices and walk you through the simple steps of canning it for long-term storage. Key Topics: How maple syrup is harvested and produced Where to buy bulk maple syrup at a lower cost Step-by-step guide to canning maple syrup for long-term storage Have you canned maple syrup before? I’d love to hear about it! Maple Syrup is delicious, and so easy to preserve for long term storage. Leave us a comment below telling us About your canning adventures. You can find me at [email protected] On Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead Or on my Website www.Simplylivinghomestead.com https://www.massmaple.org/about-maple-syrup/

Show Notes Have you ever faced a loss that completely shifted your perspective? Today, I’m sharing a personal testimony of the Lord’s sovereignty and how, through heartache, I found unexpected peace. In September 2024, I lost my milk cow, Clara, to frothy bloat. Through the sorrow, my faith was strengthened, and I saw God’s hand at work in ways I never expected. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by life’s burdens, I pray this story encourages you. Key Topics: Trusting God in loss and uncertainty How unexpected trials can lead to peace The power of surrender and faith If this story resonated with you, share it with a friend who needs encouragement. I’d love to hear your own story of faith and resilience. Send me your thoughts at [email protected] Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @thesimplylivinghomestead. Visit www.Simplylivinghomestead.com for more.

Show Notes You’ve landed on your new homestead, full of excitement and plans—but suddenly, the reality sets in. There’s so much to do, so much to learn, and the farm store aisles look really expensive. How do you set your homestead up for success from the start without getting overwhelmed? In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest challenges for new homesteaders: getting organized and knowing what tools you actually need. I’ll walk you through essential organization strategies to help you stay sane, share how to choose your first projects wisely, and, at the end, give you a list of simple tools you’ll use over and over on your homestead. Key Topics: The importance of starting with organization before diving into big projects How to choose the right first projects and avoid overwhelm A simple list of essential tools every new homesteader should have Hey Neighbor! Are you ready to start your journey homesteading? Is there something holding you back from following the call? I have a free workbook to Identify your Fear, get unstuck and step out in faith just for you! Go to www.simplylivinghomestead.com/StepOutWorkbook to download it today! And If you would like to suggest future topics we can discuss here on the podcast, send me an email at [email protected] and tell me all about it!

Ever feel like eating healthy is too expensive, too complicated, or just plain overwhelming? You're not alone! In today’s episode, we’re diving into small, sustainable changes you can make to step away from processed foods without losing your sanity or blowing your budget. From meal planning to from-scratch cooking, I’ll share practical tips, historical context, and personal stories to help you build healthier habits for you and your family—without judgment. We’ll explore why reducing sugar, preservatives, and artificial dyes can have a significant impact on your health, starting with small, manageable changes. I’ll share simple from-scratch replacements for pantry staples, like healthier oils, natural sweeteners, and unrefined grains, to help you transition gradually. You’ll also learn how to set yourself up for success with strategies like meal planning, eating with the seasons, and making freezer meals to save time and money. Show Notes https://www.livestrong.com/article/325437-harmful-effects-of-preservatives-in-foods/) NOVA Classification: https://archive.wphna.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/WN-2016-7-1-3-28-38-Monteiro-Cannon-Levy-et-al-NOVA.pdf You don’t have to change everything overnight! Download my free Step Out Workbook to identify where to start and take that first step toward healthier living: www.simplylivinghomestead.com/StepOutWorkbook. Got questions or ideas for future episodes? Send me an email at [email protected] I’d love to hear your thoughts and help you on your journey!

How can following the seasons bring more peace and purpose to your life? In this episode, I’m sharing how life on the homestead aligns beautifully with the rhythms God created. From planting in the spring and harvesting in the fall to the hard work of summer and the restful quiet of winter, each season holds its own unique blessings and purpose. I’ll walk you through what each season looks like on our farm—like spring calving, summer repairs, autumn harvests, and winter soap-making—and how these natural rhythms help us stay organized and reduce stress. We’ll also explore the benefits of seasonal living, from better planning to creating space for what matters most. Show Notes 👉 Want more inspiration? Join our newsletter for tips, updates, and stories: www.simplylivinghomestead.com 💌 Have questions or tips to share? Email me at [email protected]—I’d love to hear from you! Let’s embrace the beauty of seasonal living and make the most of every moment together.

Feeling stuck or overwhelmed with sourdough? You’re not alone! In today’s episode, we’re breaking sourdough down to the basics and showing you just how simple it can be. I’ll share my own journey into sourdough (including a class that almost made me quit!) and teach you practical tips to keep your starter happy and thriving. From easy feeding methods to reviving a neglected starter, you’ll learn everything you need to get started with confidence. Sourdough doesn’t have to be complicated—let’s make it approachable and fun! Show Notes Join our newsletter for more sourdough tips and homesteading inspiration: Simplylivinghomestead.com Have questions or tips? Let me know! Email me at [email protected]. Get ready to dive into sourdough and take the first step toward homemade, delicious bread!

What’s the secret to “doing it all” like Grandma did? In this episode, I’m sharing my personal story of homesteading—how it all began with my great-grandparents in the 1950s, the resourcefulness I learned growing up, and what led me back to the homestead. I’ll also talk about the heart behind this podcast: empowering Christian moms, teaching traditional skills, and building a community of like-minded women. Plus, we’ll explore how Grandma managed without distractions, found joy in daily tasks, and leaned on the strength of her community—and how we can apply those lessons to our modern lives. Show Note 👉 Download the free workbook to step out in faith and build your own community: https://www.simplylivinghomestead.com/stepoutworkbook 💌 Have topic ideas? Let me know! Email me at [email protected]. Join the conversation, and let’s work together to create peace, purpose, and productivity in our homes and homesteads!

In today’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that impacts us all: fear. What does the Bible say about fear and faith? How can we practically overcome fear and step out in trust and boldness? I’ll share personal stories, including my own journey with anxiety, and explore the powerful role of prayer, scripture, and intentional action. We’ll walk through practical steps to identify your fear, find God’s truth about it, and create a plan to move forward. Plus, I’ve created a free workbook to guide you through everything we discuss today. Let’s tackle this together—because faith is a choice, and you can choose to step into God’s promises! Show Notes 👉 Download the free workbook: https://www.simplylivinghomestead.com/stepoutworkbook 💌 Share your journey with me: Email at [email protected]. Get ready to be encouraged, inspired, and equipped to step out in faith today!