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

Is rosemary just a fall and winter herb? Not anymore. In this episode, we're exploring all the surprising ways to use rosemary right now—while it's thriving in the heat and taking over the garden beds. We talk about: Why rosemary thrives in summer (and how to grow it better) What makes rosemary so powerful as an herbal remedy (hello, memory + mood boost) Everyday ways to use rosemary in the summer—from scalp rinses and herbal oils to bug spray and fire starters How to preserve rosemary now so you'll have it ready for fall cooking and winter remedies Plus, I share some of the rosemary-based DIYs that are already on the blog and a couple new ones going up this week—including rosemary salt and infused oil. If your rosemary plant is bursting at the seams or you've just never known what to do with it in the warmer months, this episode is full of inspiration.

This summer hasn't felt quite as peaceful as I hoped—and maybe you're feeling the same. In this episode, I'm opening up about the stress I've been feeling lately, even while trying to do all the things to slow down. If you've ever felt like natural living was starting to feel more stressful than supportive, this conversation is for you. We'll walk through what I call my “ladder of intervention”—a gentle framework I use to decide when to reach for lifestyle changes, herbal support, or something stronger. I'm also sharing my go-to stress tea recipe, the story of how I got off anxiety meds with herbs, and a brand-new tincture recipe that supports your nervous system and your heart. Links + Resources:

Whether you're staring at empty patches in your garden or waiting for your ferments to finish bubbling, this lifestyle is full of waiting. And in a culture that celebrates overnight success and 30-second videos, that can feel extra hard. But what if the waiting is actually part of the growth? In this episode, I'm sharing: Why waiting is one of the hardest parts of homesteading How impatience has shown up for me lately (spoiler: I've replanted seeds way too early) Real-life encouragement for those of us in the messy middle of any project Simple things you can do while you wait that actually move you forward Why slow success is more satisfying—and sustainable—than quick wins “Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson Whether you're waiting on seeds, sourdough, or just a quieter season in life—this one's for you.  

Ready to finally start canning—or actually stick with it this time? This is the year we let go of perfection and start preserving food in a way that's doable, satisfying, and not totally overwhelming. In this episode, I'm sharing why I started canning, the real reasons you might want to give it a go, and the simplest ways to begin—whether you're working with homegrown tomatoes or a bucket of u-pick strawberries. I also talk through some of my biggest canning mistakes (like impulse produce purchases without a plan ), why it helps to prep now before the harvest hits, and the beginner-friendly recipes that I think everyone should try first. What You'll Learn: The real-life reasons to start canning (and why it's not just about saving money) What you actually need to get started (hint: not a root cellar or 1,000 jars) Why planning ahead is the #1 thing that makes canning feel manageable Easy beginner recipes like jam and tomato sauce—and why small batches count My favorite tools, tips, and honest lessons learned over the past few years Mentioned in This Episode: Ep. 13 – Canning Mistakes I've Made So You Don't Have To Ep. 91 – The First 10 Things I Ever Canned (and Why) Canning Tips + Tools I Use My Amazon Storefront: Canning Favorites

If your garden feels a little behind, messy, or flat-out disappointing this year—you are not alone. In this episode of The Homestead Challenge, we're talking all about releasing perfectionism in the garden so you can enjoy the process, learn as you grow, and stop comparing your reality to picture-perfect plots on Instagram. Whether your tomato starts failed, your trellis dreams didn't happen, or you're still throwing seeds in the dirt a month later than you planned—this is your permission slip to keep going.

In this episode, we're getting real about something that doesn't get talked about enough: how your physical health impacts your ability to homestead, parent, and keep a household running. We're not machines—we do this work with our bodies, and when we're in pain, low-energy, or just plain burnt out, everything feels harder. That's why I'm ditching the all-or-nothing intensity of 75 Hard and doing my own version: 10 Weeks Hard. It's a realistic, flexible challenge focused on consistency and wellness—not aesthetics or perfection. I'm sharing my five personal rules, why they matter, and how you can modify them to fit your own life. Whether you're thinking about starting something similar or just need a nudge to prioritize your health this season, this episode is for you.

☀️ What if prepping didn't feel overwhelming—or expensive? In this episode, we're diving into six completely free ways to boost your preparedness this summer. While fall and winter tend to feel like the “typical” prepping seasons, summer offers its own unique energy: longer days, lighter routines, and a little more breathing room. I'm sharing practical things you can do right now—without needing to buy a single thing—that will give you more peace of mind at home. These ideas are perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to be more prepared without falling down a rabbit hole of fear or conspiracy theories. (Not our vibe.)

If you're feeling a little stretched thin lately, this episode is for you. We're talking about three simple ways to take the pressure off your homestead routines—starting today. These are things we're doing right now to reclaim a little breathing room while still making progress on the things that matter most. Whether you're deep in garden season, juggling family life, or just feeling a bit behind, this episode is your permission slip to make things easier. In this episode, we cover: Why “doing less” isn't giving up—it's getting smarter A mindset shift that can simplify everything The one small change that made a big difference in our weekly rhythm What we're letting go of this season (and what we're focusing on instead) Links & Resources: Join The Homestead Collective → Click here Join the FREE Facebook Community Follow along on Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Have you ever held off on starting a garden because you were in a rental or temporary living space? In this episode, I'm sharing all the things I wish I had known back when we were in military housing—before we settled into what we think is our forever home. If you're renting or just feeling unsure about investing in a garden you might not have for long, this episode is for you. From containers that are worth the splurge to mistakes I wouldn't make again, I'm walking you through how to garden smarter (not harder) when space and time are limited. In this episode, you'll hear: Why I regret building an in-ground raised bed at a rental house What I'd use instead (hello, galvanized beds + elevated planters!) My love for grow bags and how they make gardening so flexible Thoughts on GreenStalks—are they worth it, and when? What to grow when you can't grow everything: my "feel rich" picks Why learning in a rental garden actually helped me long term How to support your food storage goals even if you can't grow much Links & Resources:

Summer adventures often come with scrapes, bug bites, and garden mishaps, so today we're sharing our real-life herbal first aid remedies that keep our family comfortable and safe all season long. Learn how easy it is to prepare a natural first-aid kit, starting with two must-have items: a powerful wound-healing salve and a gentle but effective bug spray. Resources Mentioned: Wound Salve Recipe (step-by-step) Homemade Herbal Bug Spray Recipe Aloe Soap for Sunburn   Join The Homestead Collective: Ready for deeper dives and live workshops? Join us in The Homestead Collective Membership!  

Feeling the May rush? Me too! Between preschool graduations and gardening, it's been busy around here. So, to lighten things up, I created a stress-free Summer Homestead Bucket List filled with manageable, fun projects. Join me as I share ideas like growing new tea herbs, frying zucchini blossoms, hosting dreamy garden dinners, crafting citronella candles, and making homemade kombucha. Plus, I'm diving into the mindset of sustainability over survival—reminding us all that homesteading should be joyful, not stressful. Whether you're an experienced homesteader or just starting out, this episode is sure to inspire a relaxing, fulfilling summer. Links: The Homestead Collective

Feeling the late spring overwhelm creeping into your garden season? You're not alone! Between end-of-school chaos, planning summer fun, and diving headfirst into gardening, it's completely normal to feel behind. In today's episode, I'm sharing the gardening "rules" I joyfully ignore and explain why gardening with flexibility and curiosity often beats chasing perfection. From skipping strict crop rotations to planting earlier than recommended (hello, impatience!), discover how embracing imperfection might just be the secret to enjoying your garden more than ever.   Your garden doesn't have to be picture-perfect to be wonderful. Let's garden imperfectly together! Join the conversation: Head over to our Facebook community (The Homestead Challenge) to share your own garden adventures and see what others are up to.  Happy gardening!

We all love the idea of saving money through homesteading—but is it actually cheaper to DIY everything when you live in the city or suburbs? In this episode, we break down the real numbers behind some popular homesteading tasks using actual prices from our area. From making your own butter and yogurt to growing a garden and baking sourdough, we're taking a close look at what really saves money—and what's worth doing for other reasons like quality, sustainability, or self-sufficiency. Spoiler: Sometimes the savings are real—and sometimes, it's more about the why behind what we do. Resources Mentioned: Pantry Stocking Challenge – Free 5-Day Series Join The Homestead Collective for more support, tools, and no-pressure progress

Springtime eating often leaves us wondering what's fresh beyond the classic salad—but May has plenty to offer! In today's episode, we're exploring vibrant and delicious ways to enjoy the seasonal produce that May brings to our kitchens. We'll also dive into some early preserving projects. Plus, we're discussing why now is the ideal time to clear out last year's pantry and freezer goods, with practical tips and inspiration for deliciously using up your stored harvest.   Resources Mentioned: How to Make Chive Salt Chive-Infused Oil Tutorial Join us on Facebook to share your favorite spring recipes and preserving projects! Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps others find seasonal inspiration too!

Summer means longer days, less structure, and more opportunities—but without planning, it can quickly turn overwhelming. In this episode, we share practical tips to create a relaxed, memorable summer without the stress or guilt about unfinished tasks. You'll learn: Why creating a brain dump works better than traditional bucket lists How to organize your summer activities into two easy categories: Fun (family memories) and Projects (home & homestead tasks) A simple strategy for designing a family-friendly summer calendar that reduces stress and adds predictability Easy homestead project planning to stay productive without burnout Practical dinner solutions for those busy, outdoor-filled days Quick household routines to keep things functional, peaceful, and manageable throughout the summer Tune in to simplify your summer plans and focus on what truly matters: fun, family, and a balanced homestead life. Mentioned in this episode: The Homestead Collective Membership for more practical resources, accountability, and community support Connect with Brittany: Instagram: @brittanylgibson Website: thehomesteadchallenge.com Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, share, and leave a review—it helps us reach more homesteaders like you!

In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Jillian from Sprouting Arrows to talk about something at the heart of the Homestead Challenge: remembering your why. Even though our paths look a little different—she homeschools, I don't; she's deeply driven by her faith, I have a different approach—we're both working toward the same goal: creating a life that centers around family, simplicity, and purpose. Jillian shares her family's journey from living on two incomes (and unknowingly overspending) to thriving on less than $50,000 a year—all while growing closer as a family and living more intentionally. We dive deep into real-world tips for living frugally, finding joy at home, breaking free from consumer culture, and overcoming the pressure to "keep up" with others online or in real life. Whether you're dreaming of stepping back from the rush, spending more time with your family, or finding ways to live fully without overextending yourself—this conversation will encourage you and show you what's possible. What we cover in this episode: Jillian's journey to frugal living and her mindset shifts along the way How living with less has brought more joy, health, and connection to her family Practical ways to save money without feeling deprived Homesteading on a tight budget: creative ways to build a garden and make from-scratch living affordable Managing technology use and building peaceful, present rhythms at home Handling extracurricular activities in a way that doesn't overwhelm your family life Tips for battling comparison—both online and in real life Why remembering your why makes all the difference when you're tempted to quit Resources Mentioned: Brittany: The Homestead Challenge Jillian:  Sprouting Arrows Enjoyed this episode? If this conversation encouraged you, take a screenshot and tag us on Instagram! You can find me at @brittanylgibson and Jillian at @sproutingarrows.

Spring has officially arrived, and with it… a whole lot of weeds. But what if I told you that some of those wild plants popping up in your yard right now are actually useful herbs? In this episode of The Homestead Challenge, we're talking about 8 common backyard “weeds” that show up in early spring—like violets, chickweed, stinging nettle, garlic mustard, and more—and how you can use them safely and simply in your homestead routines. You'll learn: Which backyard weeds are edible or medicinal (and which are invasive) How to tell them apart from lookalikes without getting overwhelmed Which herbs are helpful for spring allergies, skin soothing, and more Why it's totally okay not to use every single wild plant you find Whether you're brand new to foraging or just curious about what's sprouting near your garden beds, this episode will give you confidence and clarity as you learn what nature is offering right in your own yard. ✨ Mentioned in this episode: Nettle Lemonade Recipe on the Blog Violet Face Serum

Ever feel stuck trying to make your homestead perfect? I've been there! In today's episode, I'm sharing personal stories and practical tips about why embracing progress over perfection can transform your homesteading journey from stressful to joyful. In this episode, you'll hear: Why "done" truly is better than "perfect," and how simple tasks (like assembling shelves!) can illustrate this mindset. How perfectionism often disguises itself as endless research, leading to burnout or inaction. Real-life examples of how imperfect actions, from gardening to cooking, yield meaningful growth and satisfaction. Encouragement to embrace the "homemade-ish" approach and why every step forward counts, no matter how small. Mentioned in this episode: The Homestead Collective – Join our monthly membership for support, resources, and practical ways to incorporate homesteading skills into your busy life. The Homestead Challenge Facebook Group – Share your imperfect (and joyful!) homesteading progress with our supportive community. Remember, your family doesn't need perfection—they just need you to show up. So let's embrace the imperfections and enjoy the journey! Share your imperfect homesteading wins with us! We'd love to see your progress in the Facebook group.

Deciding where to plant things can feel like a total mystery—especially when Instagram says one thing and your neighbor's doing another. So let's talk it through, without the pressure to get it “perfect.” In this episode, I'm breaking down the pros and practical uses for containers, raised beds, and in-ground gardening—plus how I decide where to put what in my own small-space garden. We'll chat: What to plant in containers (and why peppers love my grow bags!) The crops that thrive in raised beds (especially if you've got heavy soil) When to give in-ground gardening a go—and how to make it work without fancy gear Why you have to experiment in your space and not just copy what works for someone else How I'm planning my garden this year (hint: it's a mix of whimsy, practicality, and learning as I go) Whether you're just getting started or want to make better use of the space you've got, this episode will help you feel more confident in choosing what goes where—with plenty of encouragement to try, fail, and try again.  

When most people start homesteading, they jump straight to the fun stuff—sourdough, chickens, herbal remedies. But here's the truth: If your kitchen isn't in rhythm, everything else feels harder. In this episode, I'm sharing why meal planning is the foundation of a sustainable, low-stress homestead—especially if you're busy, in a season of life with limited time, or balancing a million things at once.

Tired of babysitting your garden all summer long? In this episode, we're digging into the real MVPs of the garden—the plants that practically take care of themselves. I'm sharing a list of weird, wonderful, and wildly easy plants that give you an amazing harvest without demanding much of your time or energy. Whether you're short on bandwidth, just starting out, or simply want to build a more sustainable setup, these low-maintenance picks are for you. Resources & Links Mentioned: Learn more about The Homestead Collective: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/collective Join our free community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

In today's episode, I'm sharing the three biggest mistakes I made when I first started homesteading in the city—and what finally helped me stop burning out and start building a lifestyle that actually felt good. Whether you're just getting started or you've been at this a while, I hope this episode feels like a big exhale. I'll also walk you through a super simple five-minute mindset shift that can help you refocus this week and let go of what's not serving you.   Links + Resources:

Let's be honest — remembering to water the garden can be really hard when life is full of kids, work, laundry piles, and approximately one zillion other things. In today's episode, we're talking about realistic, no-pressure strategies to help you keep your garden alive and thriving without needing a perfect routine. I'm sharing my favorite habit stacking tricks, visual cues, and time-saving hacks that have helped me stay consistent — even on the busiest days. Whether you're a tired parent, a working homesteader, or just someone who forgets to water (same), this episode will give you a breath of fresh air and practical ideas you can try this week. Mentioned in This Episode: Join The Homestead Collective: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/collective/ Follow along on Instagram: @brittanylgibson Leave a Review & Share! If this episode helped you feel less overwhelmed and more empowered in the garden, it would mean so much if you left a review or shared it with a friend who could use a little garden encouragement.

Do you ever start a season full of homestead goals—sourdough, gardening, preserving—and then lose steam halfway through? You're not alone. In this episode, I'm sharing the real reason so many of us struggle to follow through on our homesteading plans, and a simple mindset shift that will help you stay consistent (even when life gets busy). We'll break down what I call the Accountability Triangle—clarity, support, and consistency—and how those three things can transform your homesteading journey.

Welcome to The Homestead Collective! In this episode, I'm giving you a behind-the-scenes tour of everything waiting for you inside this supportive, no-pressure homesteading community. Whether you're brand new or just want to get oriented, this episode will help you:

Spring is here, and if you're feeling pulled in too many directions on your homestead — you're not alone! In this episode, I'm sharing the two areas I'm focusing on right now and how I'm narrowing in on what actually matters most (even when I really want to do it all). I'll also tell you about an exclusive 30-minute workshop I'm hosting this week to help you do the same! This private workshop will help you: ✅ Cut the overwhelm ✅ Get super clear on your next 30-day priorities ✅ Build a simple plan that moves the needle toward your goals Whether your focus is seed starting, baby chicks, preserving food, or something completely different — this method works for homesteaders of any size and stage.

These days, more and more people are quietly stepping back from homesteading — selling off animals, downsizing, or giving up entirely. After reading an article on the Guardian called “Why I Quit My Homestead Dream Just as Farmer Tradwives Became Mainstream,” I knew I had to sit down and talk about this growing trend… and why I'm determined to do things differently. In this episode, I'm sharing my honest thoughts on homesteading burnout, the pressure to do it all, and how I believe we can build a homestead life that feels balanced, nourishing, and sustainable — without losing our modern freedoms or joy. If you've ever felt like homesteading was becoming just another heavy checklist — this episode is for you. In This Episode, You'll Hear:

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

Ever felt like you're trying to figure out homesteading all by yourself? You're not alone—and more importantly, you're not supposed to be. In this episode, we're talking about something crucial but often overlooked in homesteading: the power of community. I'll share: Why trying to do it all on your own can hold you back Practical ways local community connections can transform your homesteading journey How online communities offer instant support, inspiration, and a feeling of belonging We'll dive deep into how finding your community—whether in person or online—can truly change your homesteading experience. It's time to trade isolation for connection, frustration for encouragement, and overwhelm for practical support. Resources: Loving my content? Buy me a coffee ☕☕☕ >>> https://buymeacoffee.com/brittanylgibson Join the FREE 5 Day Pantry Challenge >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/ Join the waitlist for The Homestead Collective >>> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist/   Let's Connect! I'd love to hear about your homesteading journey—have you ever felt like you were doing this alone? DM me on Instagram (@brittanylgibson) or reply to my email newsletter. Remember, you weren't meant to homestead alone—and together, we'll build thriving, supportive communities that help us grow. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who needs to hear it!

Homesteading should feel joyful, not exhausting—but let's be real, the pressure to “do it all” can be overwhelming. If you've ever felt like your to-do list is never-ending, or that you're falling behind, this episode is for you! Today, I'm sharing 6 simple shifts to help you reset, refocus, and keep homesteading sustainable and fulfilling (without guilt or burnout). If you're feeling stretched too thin or worried you can't keep up, this episode will give you practical, low-pressure solutions to make homesteading work for you.   Thanks for being here, friend.

Spring is right around the corner, and before the busy garden season kicks in, now is the perfect time to tackle a few quick and easy homesteading tasks that will set you up for success. In this episode, I'm sharing seven simple things you can do in 10 minutes or less to make sure your home, kitchen, and garden are ready for the months ahead. From organizing your canning supplies to stocking your freezer with easy meals, these small but mighty tasks will help you feel prepared and stress-free when planting season arrives. Thanks for being here, friend.

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

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

Get the Prompts -> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/chatgpt-for-your-homestead/ AI on a homestead? Yep, we're going there! In this episode, I'm breaking down how tools like ChatGPT can actually support your homesteading journey—without replacing the heart and soul of it. Whether you're looking for creative homestead name ideas, garden planning tips, or even a way to organize your endless to-do list, AI can help streamline the process so you can spend more time doing and less time researching. What You'll Learn in This Episode:

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

Is your kitchen stressing you out? A cluttered pantry, messy counters, and the dreaded “What's for dinner?” question can make cooking feel like a chore. But small changes can have a big impact! In this episode, I'm sharing 5 simple, actionable steps to create a kitchen that feels calm, functional, and ready for real-life homesteading. These quick fixes take less than 10 minutes each but will help you: ✔ Reduce kitchen stress and decision fatigue ✔ Make meal prep easier (without overcomplicating it) ✔ Create a pantry that actually works for you Ready for a deeper pantry refresh? Join my FREE 5-Day Stock Your Kitchen Pantry Challenge! In just a few days, you'll go from an unorganized, frustrating pantry to a well-stocked, practical system that saves time and money.

The Homestead Collective Waitlist -> https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/waitlist   There's something about having a farm that forces you into a routine. You wake up, you go outside, you move your body, and you take care of something that depends on you. It's an ancestral rhythm that feels so… right. But in the city (or even just modern life), it's way too easy to roll out of bed, grab your phone, and stay inside all morning. Especially in the winter (guilty ✋). That's why I recorded this new episode—so we can bring that fulfilling, farm-style routine into our everyday lives. In this episode, I'll walk you through practical ways to create a morning routine that gets you outside, moving, and connected to nature—even if you don't have land or animals to tend to. (Because you don't need a farm to live like a homesteader.)

Have you ever felt like homesteading just isn't an option for you? Maybe you don't have acres of land, a big garden, or endless free time. Maybe you're wondering: ➡ Where do I even start? ➡ Can I really homestead in a small space? ➡ Do I have to do everything from scratch to call myself a homesteader? If any of that sounds familiar, I've got something for you.

Are you jumping on the bio-hacking bandwagon? What is bio-hacking? Biohacking is the practice of making small, intentional lifestyle changes to optimize physical and mental performance. It often includes techniques like sauna therapy, cold plunges, targeted nutrition, and detox protocols to enhance well-being and longevity. Brooke of the ​Wellness Farm Chat podcast​ and I had a great conversation about all the bio-hacks we tried and came to a conclusion on our favorites that actually work!   Join the Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity  

We are sick. Like, major flu vibes over here. There are a few things I am doing (both naturally AND not) to help! Using oregano oil is one! I am talking about an oregano-infused olive oil here, not the essential oil. On today's episode I briefly go over oregano's properties and how to use this simple oil at home for some respiratory support. Listen now to learn about all of the benefits of oregano oil!   TAKE THE SURVEY- https://bit.ly/homesteadaudience Join the Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity Get on the email list- https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/freebie-library-opt-in/  

I've never talked about this before. MONEY. Gah. The subject can be so taboo. But here's the thing. Finances are SO very entwined into our values as homesteaders that I wanted to talk about it. Whether you are trying to quit your 9-5 to stay home... Buy the acreage you've always dreamed of... Get out of debt so you can finally buy that truck load of soil that your garden so desperately needs... Aligning our finances with our homestead goals can push them forward in the BIGGEST way. If you're a mom, you can be constantly pushed in all directions when it comes to money mindset (#momguilt, amiright?). In today's episode, I got to chat with ​Krista​ of the Money Mindful Moms podcast about starting to get your finances together in a way that actually fits into your life, whatever that looks like for YOU. I hope you learned something new and feel inspired to start your debt free journey, save more, and worry less. Don't forget to check out ​The Money Mindful Moms podcast​ wherever you listen to this show and check out the ​Money Mindful Moms Club.     ​  

I always think it is SO interesting to see what people are actually doing in their daily lives. I decided I would walk you through my day and share all of the non-toxic and nutritious swaps that I've made in my daily life as I am on this natural-living / homesteading journey. Listen now to hear all about my morning routine, skincare routine, and more!   Join the Facebook Community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity  Amazon Storefront -> https://www.amazon.com/shop/brittanylgibson/list/1T2QI6J5UNEXK?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_BM6W31VXP9YVAGW4YQ2S_1 Dropps-> https://share.dropps.com/brittany58 Who Gives a Crap -> https://whogivesacrap.mention-me.com/m/ol/ri0mv-brittany-gibson   https://thehomesteadchallenge.com  

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

There is a major difference between using essential oils and using whole herbs. While they both have their place, there are reasons I use whole herbs 99% of the time. Today I want to explore the differences to help enhance your herbal safety knowledge.   Join the Facebook Community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity Grab all my freebies -> https://bit.ly/homesteadfreebies

Let's explore herbal safety basics for your family's natural wellness journey. Learn how to research and vet herbs effectively, avoid AI-written or poorly sourced books, and discover the best places to buy herbs. I'll also cover child dosage guidelines, highlight essential drug interaction cautions, and share tips on integrating herbal remedies into a non-toxic lifestyle without sacrificing modern medicine. Don't miss this foundational guide to confident herbalism for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike!   Links Mentioned: Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity #1 Mistake I Made When Starting Herbal Tinctures: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/alcohol-for-herbal-tinctures/ Herb Buying Guide: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wild-harvested-vs-organic-herbs/ Books for Beginner Herbalists: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/7-best-books-on-herbalism-for-beginners-without-the-overwhelm/ Herbs for Kids: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbs-for-kids/ Herbal Supplies: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/gifts-for-beginner-herbalists/  

Canning is on everyone's mind this year, especially after so many of you scored new canners for Christmas. In this episode, I share my early canning (both water bath canning and pressure canning) experiences and the 10 first things I ever canned—plus some helpful tips to get you started on your own preserving journey. Whether you are an experienced canner or you are adding it to your homestead goals this year, I hope this episode helps!   Be sure to listen to Ep 13: 5 Canning Mistakes I Made So You Don't Have To   Join the Facebook Community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity Grab all my freebies -> https://bit.ly/homesteadfreebies  

Whether it's your first year or your 50th year homesteading, setting goals can be a helpful way to make sure you DO THE THING! Reflect with me on the goals I made my first year homesteading and learn how I made those goals a reality (for the most part).   Goal Planner Join the Facebook Community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity Grab all my freebies -> https://bit.ly/homesteadfreebies

While homesteading is always trending in my book, and also intrinsically about not following trends, I thought it would be fun to explore the top homesteading trends for 2025! Check out my predictions! Let me know your thoughts in the Facebook Community!   Join the Facebook Community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity Grab all my freebies -> https://bit.ly/homesteadfreebies  

In this episode, we're looking back at 2024 to see what “fruit” we gathered + seeds sown, celebrating the progress—big or small—that shaped our homesteads and our lives. Then, we dive into choosing a Word of the Year to guide us through 2025.  Listen in and let's cultivate a “bigger,” more meaningful homestead life this year!   Join our Facebook community ->www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/ Check out the Freebie library-> https://bit.ly/homesteadfreebies

Welcome to The Homestead Challenge! In this episode, I'm sharing all the things I'm letting go of in 2024—starting with my sourdough starter (yep, it's time to admit I'm not using it!).  Links & Resources Mentioned Freebie Library: https://bit.ly/homesteadfreebies Connect With Me on Social Media: @brittanylgibson Thank You for Listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a review. It really helps The Homestead Challenge reach more folks who want to live a simpler, more self-sufficient life. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com  

The holidays are magical, but they can also catch us off guard! In this episode, I'm sharing my top tips for stress-free holiday home preparedness, all with a no-pressure homesteading twist. Whether you're dealing with unexpected guests, last-minute host gifts, or the frenzy of Christmas morning, this episode has you covered. Get practical, low-stress solutions to handle holiday surprises with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—making memories.   https://thehomesteadchallenge.com