The Homestead Education Podcast
Kody Hanner
Show overview
The Homestead Education Podcast has been publishing since 2023, and across the 3 years since has built a catalogue of 105 episodes, alongside 1 trailer or bonus episode. That works out to roughly 90 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a fortnightly cadence, with the show now in its 7th season.
Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 43 min and 59 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Education show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 1 weeks ago, with 9 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2024, with 38 episodes published. Published by Kody Hanner.
From the publisher
Everyone deserves an agricultural education — to understand food, land, and responsibility at a scale that fits real life. Hosted by Kody Hanner, agricultural educator, homeschool mom of six, and lifelong rural advocate, The Homestead Education Podcast explores how accessible, small-scale agricultural education can build capable people, strengthen families, and create resilient local food systems. Drawing from generations of rural knowledge, educated in animal science, and years of teaching families outside traditional systems, Kody breaks down complex food and education topics into practical, usable skills for homes, classrooms, and communities. Each week, you’ll hear honest conversations about food systems, small-scale agriculture, homeschooling, and real-world education — designed for families, educators, and anyone who believes we shouldn’t outsource our lives. Whether you live on acreage, in town, or somewhere in between, this podcast will help you understand where your food comes from, why it matters, and how practical agricultural knowledge can create meaningful change.
Latest Episodes
View all 105 episodesEpisode 173: Growing a Food Community: Insights from Susan Poizner on Fruit Tree Care and Community Orchards
How to Teach Kids Real-Life Learning | Homesteading, Trades, & Purpose-Driven Learning
How to Build a Homestead from Scratch | Lifestyle, Gardening & Real-Life Skills
How to Avoid Burnout in Agriculture | Farming, Mindset & Leadership
How to Understand What's Happening in Agriculture | Food Systems & Media
Ep 169How to Turn Tree Sap into Syrup | Homesteading, Food Systems & Self-Sufficiency
Sugaring isn’t just for the Northeast anymore. And the truth is — there are opportunities for food, resources, and self-sufficiency sitting right in our own backyards… if we’re willing to look a little closer. In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with David Knudson of Montana Maple Works to talk about the surprising world of tapping trees for syrup in the Western U.S. — and what it really takes to turn sap into something usable, valuable, and even profitable. From tapping city trees to navigating regulations, building a business from scratch, and teaching others along the way — David shares how curiosity turned into a full-blown maple syrup operation, and what that means for homesteaders and families looking to learn new skills. From understanding tree types and sap flow to the reality of how much work goes into a single gallon of syrup — this episode breaks down both the science and the practicality behind it all. This isn’t just about maple syrup. It’s about recognizing the resources around you — and learning how to use them. If you care about: Learning practical, real-life homesteading skills Alternative ways to source sugar and natural resources Small-scale production and turning skills into income Understanding trees, seasons, and natural systems Building resilience and self-sufficiency at home This episode will open your eyes to what’s possible — even in places you might not expect. In This Episode, We Cover: How maple syrup production works — from sap to finished product Why the West hasn’t traditionally tapped trees (and why that’s changing) What types of trees can be tapped beyond sugar maples The realities of sap-to-syrup ratios and production time How David built a business from a simple idea The challenges of regulations and accessing trees Why learning skills like this matters for long-term self-sufficiency 🤝 Support Our Guest — David Knudson If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to connect with David and learn more about tapping trees and syrup production. 🌐 Visit: Montana Maple Works Resources & Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation 🔥 Final Thought Sometimes the resources we’re looking for aren’t far away — they’re just unfamiliar. The more we learn to see what’s around us, the more capable we become of providing for ourselves — one skill at a time.
Ep 168How Farmers Can Make Direct-to-Consumer Work | Agriculture, Marketing & Modern Farming
Food systems are shifting. Farming is shifting. And the reality is — making a living in agriculture today looks nothing like it used to. In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Lexi Wright of the Farming on Purpose podcast for a real conversation about what it actually takes to make farming work in today’s economy — from direct-to-consumer sales to managing multiple income streams and navigating the challenges modern farmers are facing. From the disconnect between consumers and their food to the growing pressure on farmers to become marketers, educators, and business owners all at once — this episode breaks down what’s really happening behind the scenes. This isn’t about going back to the “old way” of farming. It’s about building something that actually works today. If you care about: Direct-to-consumer farming and selling your products The reality of farm income and multiple revenue streams Marketing and building relationships with customers Small-scale farming, homesteading, and sustainability Understanding where your food comes from This episode will challenge how you think about agriculture — and what it takes to make it work. In This Episode, We Cover: What it really takes to make money in farming today Why direct-to-consumer is becoming essential for farmers The challenges of marketing, education, and selling your products How farmers are balancing multiple income streams The disconnect between consumers and real food systems What’s changing in agriculture — and what it means for the future 🤝 Support Our Guest — Lexi Wright If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to connect with Lexi Wright from Farming on Purpose and support the work she’s doing to help farmers and rural businesses grow. 🎙 Listen to her podcast: Farming on Purpose 📲 Follow on Facebook 📲 Follow on Instagram Resources & Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation ⭐️ Support the Show If this episode challenged or inspired you: ✔️ Follow the podcast so new episodes show up automatically ✔️ Leave a review — it helps more families find this message ✔️ Share this episode with someone who cares about food, farming, or self-sufficiency 🔥 Final Thought Farming today isn’t just about raising animals or growing crops. It’s about building relationships, creating value, and finding a way to make it all work — even when the system doesn’t.
Ep 167How We Can Do Better for Agriculture in 2026 | Food, Education & the Future
Food systems are shifting. Education is shifting. And in 2026, the question isn’t if things need to change — it’s how we do better moving forward. In this Season 7 kickoff episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner takes a hard look at the current state of agriculture, the rise of AI and digital influence, and the growing disconnect between people and their food. From the dilution of farming practices under trending labels to the increasing reliance on broken education systems, this episode breaks down what’s actually happening — and what families, educators, and communities can do about it. This isn’t about turning everyone into a farmer. It’s about raising a generation that understands food, land, and responsibility. If you care about: Food security and self-sufficiency Agriculture education for kids and families Homesteading, small-scale farming, and real-life skills The impact of AI and media on learning and culture This episode will challenge the way you think — and give you a path forward. In This Episode, We Cover: What’s really happening in agriculture in 2026 How AI and online content are shaping (and distorting) education The problem with “trendy” farming movements losing their roots Why traditional systems are failing to prepare capable adults How small-scale agriculture education can rebuild stronger communities Practical ways families can start taking back control of their food and learning Resources & Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation ⭐️ Support the Show If this episode challenged or inspired you: ✔️ Follow the podcast so new episodes show up automatically ✔️ Leave a review — it helps more families find this message ✔️ Share this episode with someone who cares about food, education, or self-sufficiency 🔥 Final Thought We don’t need more noise. We need more people who actually know what they’re doing — and are willing to teach it.
Season 7 Trailer - How to make the changes we want to see for agriculture in 2026?
trailerFood and agriculture have never been louder — and clarity has never been harder to find. As we move into 2026, grocery prices are rising, agricultural education is being shaped by broken systems, and AI is changing how information spreads. So how do we actually do better? Season 7 of The Homestead Education Podcast is focused on rebuilding agricultural education at a human scale — not to turn everyone into farmers, but to raise people who understand food, land, and responsibility. If you care about food security, agriculture, or strengthening families and communities, this season is for you. 👉Follow the show now so you don’t miss the full Season 7 kickoff episode next week. The conversation is just getting started. Connect with Kody! Instagram: homestead_education Submit a question to be answered Book Kody to Speak Sponsorship / Partnership Inquiries
Ep 165How to Build Executive Functioning on the Homestead
In this episode, I share an update on Ranger, our Great Pyrenees livestock guardian who is still missing, and how our family is moving forward while holding onto hope. I also talk about our plan to bring home a new working male dog, what we’re looking for in a ranch-ready name, and how we’re navigating the emotions of change while keeping the homestead running. Then I dive into my annual New Year reflection, including my word-of-the-year approach (reemerge, redefine, and bringing it home), what’s shifting in our family and business, and why executive functioning matters for both kids and adults. I explain how homesteading naturally builds real-life skills through purpose, cause and effect, and responsibility, share details about my free Executive Functioning for Homestead Kids download, and give an update on our student planners—plus the launch of the new Junior Homestead Student Planner. Episode Links Homestead Student Planners: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/student-planner/ Grab your freebie here! Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 164What People Need to Know About Raising Working Dogs
In this episode, I’m talking about working dogs—and what happens when one goes missing. After a brief life update, I share the story of our livestock guardian dog, Ranger, and the events leading up to his disappearance. From late-night disturbances to injuries on multiple dogs, this episode explores the reality of relying on a guardian dog to protect a farm and the emotional weight of not knowing what happened. I also address common misconceptions about working dogs, especially livestock guardian breeds like Great Pyrenees—how they’re raised, why they live differently than house pets, and why pet standards don’t always apply to working roles. Drawing from my background with hunting, herding, and farm dogs, I explain the difference between livestock guardians and farm guardians and invite listeners to think critically about breed-specific needs, farm protection, and respectful support during hard seasons. Episode Links Homestead Education Shop: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop/ Hanner Homestead: https://hannerhomestead.com/shop/ Porthill Printing: https://porthillprinting.com/ Livestock Guardian: https://amzn.to/4j08Riq Herding Dogs: https://amzn.to/3L3Vkts Herding Dogs on the Homestead: https://amzn.to/48FctTn Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 163How to Prep Without the Tinfoil Hat: Practical Emergency Readiness with Lindy Bryant
In this episode, Kody sits down with Lindy Bryant of Northwoods of Idaho—Air Force veteran, disaster response specialist, and creator of the Grab and Go Binder and Survival in a Bottle kits. They break down real-life preparedness for normal people: families, single parents, seniors, urban dwellers, and rural homesteaders who want to be ready for power outages, job loss, medical emergencies, and everyday “mini disasters” long before a comet hits the earth. From emergency binders and car kits to bartering, community support, and skill-based prepping, this conversation will help you rethink preparedness as a practical, affordable, and deeply caring way to protect your family. Episode Links Website: https://www.northwoodsofidaho.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NorthWoodsOfIdaho Get it on Amazon: Do It Yourself: Grab-N-Go Binder Lindy's Book: The Single Person's Guide to Preparedness: Prepping for One! Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 162How to Sell Farm-Raised Meat Online (and Actually Make a Profit)
In this episode, Kody chats with Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, about helping farmers sell meat directly to consumers in today’s market. Katie shares how she transitioned from teaching elementary school in rural Iowa to building an online farmers' market that connects producers with buyers nationwide. Together, they unpack the difference between custom-exempt and retail meat sales, how inspection laws affect shipping, and why clear pricing and education are key to building trust with customers. Katie also shares insights on simplifying online sales, using email marketing instead of relying on social media, and creative strategies for selling the lesser-known cuts that often sit in farmers’ freezers. Episode Links Chop Local Website: https://choplocal.com/ Chop Local University: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/choplocalmeat YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@choplocal Podcast: Meat Success Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 161Are Americans Losing Food Freedom? How to Reclaim Control from the System
In this episode, Kody tackles one of the most complex and often misunderstood topics in America: the food stamp system and its impact on personal responsibility, nutrition, and self-sufficiency. She traces its origins from FDR’s 1939 program to today’s SNAP, uncovering how a system designed to feed the hungry gradually created a culture of dependency. Drawing from her own experience as a single mother who once relied on food assistance, Kody offers a compassionate yet challenging perspective on how modern policies, education gaps, and processed food industries have eroded our connection to real food and the skills to provide it. She reminds listeners that if those in power control the food, they control the people. Through history, statistics, and personal reflection, Kody urges families to reclaim their independence by learning to cook, grow, and nourish themselves. She calls for a return of home economics and small-scale agriculture to schools, stronger nutrition education, and support for farmers—the very people who sustain our nation. This thought-provoking conversation challenges the idea that aid alone can solve hunger and points toward a future where resilience, knowledge, and self-reliance take the lead. Episode Links Brand new student planner: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/product/homestead-student-planner/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/160411704 Porthill Printing website: www.porthillprinting.com Porthill Printing social media: @porthillprinting Book Links: The Jungle by Upton Sinclair Omnivores Dilemma Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 160From Farm to Neighbor: Strengthening Local Food Systems with Steader
In this episode, Kody sits down with Greg and Kristen Leininger, founders of Steader, to share how their own homesteading challenges sparked the idea for a faith-led, community-driven app built to reconnect local food systems. They open up about turning that vision into a working platform that helps neighbors buy, sell, and trade. From their family’s journey toward a simpler, purpose-filled life to their mission of helping others live closer to God’s design for food, land, and fellowship, Greg and Kristen show how technology can actually bring homesteaders back together—one trade, seed, or story at a time. Episode Links Website: https://www.steader.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steaderapp Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steaderapp/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 159When Family Stories Become A Mission: The Making Of The Homestead Kids With Brian Combs
In this episode, Kody sits down with author Brian Combs of The Homestead Kids to share how a dad’s bedtime stories, written to help his newly adopted daughters navigate a big move, grew into a faith-led adventure series that’s turning reluctant readers into eager book finishers. Brian opens up about weaving Scripture naturally into wholesome homestead tales, why he designed the books with full-color chapter illustrations, 14-point type, and a dyslexia-friendly edition, and the reader feedback that keeps him writing. Episode Links Website: https://thehomesteadkidsbooks.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095518380679 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehomesteadkidsbooks/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 158The Truth About Tallow: Real Benefits of Grass-Fed Skincare with Jennifer Wheeler
In this episode, Kody sits down with Jennifer Wheeler, co-founder of Grass Fed Skin, to share the inspiring story of how she and her husband, Eric, followed God’s calling to leave their established healthcare careers and build a family-run, faith-led skincare business. Jennifer opens up about the moment she felt led to start something new, the early days of crafting tallow balm at home, and how their simple, natural product has transformed lives by helping people heal their skin and reduce toxins in their homes. Episode Links Use code "WelcomeGFS" at checkout to get 10% off! Website- https://mygrassfedskin.com/ Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/grassfedskin Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550030956702 Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 157How to Build Community in Rural Life: Real Connections for Modern Homesteaders
In this episode, Kody Hanner opens up about one of the most important (and overlooked) parts of homesteading life — building real, lasting community in rural areas. From her own experiences moving before COVID to discovering how neighbors rallied in times of crisis, Kody dives deep into the why and how behind connection, support, and mental wellness on the homestead. Whether you’re new to country life, raising your kids off-grid, or transitioning from city living, this episode offers inspiration and tangible ways to find your people — in person, not just online. Episode Links Ladies Homestead Gathering: https://www.nlhg.org/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 156From Field to Front Door: How Agriculture Touches Every Life
In this episode, Kody shares what’s been happening on her homestead and in her business — from breeding season and beef prices to the big leap into running a full in-house print shop. She opens up about the real-life challenges and triumphs of raising livestock, growing a business, and raising a family — all while staying rooted in her mission to reshape agricultural education for the next generation. Kody also reflects on why “Agriculture Is Everywhere” — how it impacts every aspect of our daily lives, why kids need hands-on life skills now more than ever, and her growing vision to bring agriculture and home economics back to the heart of modern education. Whether you’re a homeschool parent, small-scale farmer, or simply passionate about where your food comes from, this episode is a reminder that we’re all connected through agriculture. Episode Links Homestead Economics & Business Mini Course: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/product/homestead-economics-business-mini-course/ Seasons on the Homestead: Autumn Educational Activity Book: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/product/seasons-on-the-homestead-autumn-educational-activity-book/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Ep 155Destroyed by Design with Cheryl Daley from The Homeschool How To Podcast
In this episode, I’m joined by Cheryl Daley—homeschooling mom, speaker, author and host of The Homeschool How To Podcast. Cheryl is passionate about helping parents recognize how culture and education are shaping their children, often by design, and equipping families to stand firm in their faith. With years of homeschooling experience and a heart for encouraging other parents, Cheryl shares how families can guard their children’s hearts and minds, strengthen their faith foundation, and raise resilient kids in today’s world. We explore how cultural influences affect the next generation, why intentional parenting matters, and practical steps you can take to build a Christ-centered home. Episode Links Website: https://thehomeschoolhowto.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089912183883 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehomeschoolhowtopodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehomeschoolhowto Grab your copy of Cheryl’s brand-new Homeschool Starter Guide eBook!- https://thehomeschoolhowto.com/product/the-homeschool-how-to-complete-starter-guide/ Get your copy of Let's Talk, Emergencies on Amazon today! Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation