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

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

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

If you're feeling tempted by all the Prime Day and early Black Friday sales but aren't sure what's actually worth it for your homestead — this one's for you. I'm taking a quick break from my homestead organization series to share what I've been seeing lately in the world of deals and steals, what's worth adding to your cart, and what can probably wait until next year. In this episode, I'm talking about some of my favorite brands, the types of products that actually go on sale (and stay good quality), and how to make a wishlist that keeps you from getting sucked into the scroll. What We Chat About: Why GreenStalk's current clearance sale is the best I've ever seen How to tell if a “deal” is really a deal (hint: check regular prices first!) When to stock up on grow bags, seeds, and raised beds Power backup systems and what brands to trust Kitchen tools and cast iron cookware that actually go on sale How I use wishlist shopping to avoid impulse buys The one item still on my wishlist — the Presto electric pressure canner My Best Tips: Don't feel pressured to buy everything right now — there will always be another sale. Sign up for your favorite seed companies' newsletters to catch those early November discounts. Create a wishlist before you browse so you don't get distracted by random “lightning deals.” Quality over quantity — especially when it comes to garden gear and tools that need to last.

This week, I'm answering a listener question that so many of us can relate to: How do you plan your homesteading projects? Do you have a calendar? If you've ever bought all the supplies for a new skill—like kombucha brewing or sourdough baking—and then never actually started, this episode is for you. I'm sharing why it's completely normal to go through different seasons in our homesteading journey and how not everything has to happen at once. I also talk about how I personally plan and prioritize projects, the simple tools that help me stay organized, and how I find little pockets of time in my busy week (even with kids at home). From embracing the ebb and flow of energy to letting go of perfection, this episode is your reminder that your homestead doesn't have to look productive all the time to be meaningful. In this episode, I chat about: Why unfinished projects are completely normal How to think seasonally when it comes to learning new skills The difference between passion projects and habits Finding small blocks of time to get things done My favorite planners and simple brain-dump methods Giving yourself grace to grow slowly and sustainably

Fall is officially here, and many of us are looking at our raised beds wondering what comes next. Do we clear them out completely, or let nature do some of the work for us? In this episode, we dive into what really happens to the soil in our raised beds over winter and how we can prevent losing precious inches of dirt like my friend did when her soil dropped five full inches in just a couple of years. We talk through the natural processes of compaction, decomposition, and erosion, plus the simple steps we can take now to protect and enrich our soil. From leaving roots behind to feed the underground ecosystem, to covering with shredded leaves or mulch, to adding compost before the snow hits — we'll explore the best ways to “tuck in” our beds for the season. And if you're in a warmer climate, we share cover crop ideas to keep living roots in the soil all winter long. By the end, you'll have practical and low-pressure ways to care for your raised beds this fall, so they're ready and waiting to grow strong, healthy plants next spring. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why soil levels drop in raised beds over time The benefits of leaving roots and stems in place How leaves, mulch, and compost act like a protective blanket Tips for using cover crops if you live in a mild climate Simple habits to prevent losing soil year after year

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

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

When the world feels heavy—whether it's the news cycle, social media, or just the weight of everyday life—it's okay to retreat to the comforts of home. In this short and gentle episode of The Homestead Challenge, I'm sharing 10 simple homesteading rhythms that bring peace without adding to your mental load. From lighting a simmer pot to harvesting something small, these are easy, no-pressure ways to make your home a haven and help calm your heart when everything else feels overwhelming. ✨ What you'll hear in this episode: Why it's okay to step back from the noise and create sanctuary at home 10 homestead-inspired comforts that bring coziness and calm (without adding stress) Simple seasonal rituals for grounding yourself as we move into autumn Permission to take a break, slow down, and choose gentleness Because sometimes the best way we care for the world is by tending to our own little corner of it.

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

September means apple season, and we're diving into all the ways to enjoy it. In this episode, we explore foraging for crabapples (and how to tell them apart from hawthorn), heading to the orchard for a family apple-picking trip, and the many ways we can preserve the harvest for the months ahead. From applesauce and apple butter to homemade apple cider vinegar and jelly, we're talking about how to make the most of this abundant fall fruit. Whether you're foraging on your neighborhood sidewalks or hauling home a bushel from a local farm, this episode is packed with ideas to inspire your apple season. What You'll Learn in This Episode How to identify and use crabapples (and why they're so underrated). Tips for safe and fun apple picking at orchards. Ways to preserve apples: canning, freezing, dehydrating, and fermenting. Creative ways to use peels and cores so nothing goes to waste. Why September feels like its own special season. Links & Resources Join The Homestead Challenge Community on Facebook to share your apple recipes.

The holidays might feel far away, but this is actually the perfect moment to think ahead. Right now, in the thick of harvest season, you might be tired of tomatoes or over the endless jars of jelly. But what if you could turn that abundance into a few fun preserves that will make holiday hosting (and party season) so much easier later? In this episode, I'm sharing simple, creative ideas you can make now that future-you will thank you for when it's time to pull together a cheese board, potluck dish, or festive drink. We'll chat about: ✨ Shrubs & herbal syrups for easy cocktails and mocktails

Back-to-school brings a natural rhythm shift, and on the homestead, that means it's time to simplify. In this episode, we share the practical ways we're keeping things easy during this transition—like freezing instead of canning, packing simple lunches, and leaning on streamlined morning routines. We're also talking about cozying our home for the season, preparing for the inevitable back-to-school germs, and making space for what truly matters right now. And because mamas need support too, we highlight our brand-new Back-to-School Herbal Tea recipe—a calming blend of tulsi, lemon balm, chamomile, and ginger that helps bring balance during this busy season. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why we're freezing produce instead of canning right now Our approach to packing school lunches without the overwhelm Simple morning routines that actually work How we're cozying our home and preparing for seasonal transitions A sneak peek at our Back-to-School Tea recipe for stressed-out moms

This autumn, I'm trading my usual garden harvests for baskets, jars, and a keen eye on what nature has to offer. Inspired by the book Feed Us with Trees by Elspeth Hay, I've been thinking differently about the way humans have long partnered with the land — and it's made me excited to try some new foraging projects this year. In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, I'm sharing exactly what I'll be foraging from August through November, along with tips for identification, uses, and timing. Whether you're brand new to foraging or you've been at it for years, this list is full of easy-to-spot plants, herbs, and wild foods you can gather — even if your garden is done for the year. Here's what we'll cover: The late-summer goldenrod bloom (and how to use it for allergies or décor) Elderberries, blackberries, and rosehips for immune-boosting winter remedies Mushrooms like chicken of the woods and chanterelles for the fall kitchen Acorns, black walnuts, hazelnuts, and chestnuts — from forest snack to flour Dandelion root and burdock root for liver and detox support Usnea, the “Old Man's Beard” lichen, for natural antimicrobial medicine You don't have to go deep into the woods to try this — many of these are hiding in plain sight. Grab a basket, step outside, and let's make the most of what autumn has to offer. Resources & Links: Book: Feed Us with Trees by Elspeth Hay Join the conversation in the Homestead Challenge Community on Facebook More foraging and seasonal living tips at TheHomesteadChallenge.com  

In this episode, we're talking about the Every Bit Counts approach to preserving your harvest—without the overwhelm. Whether you're in the thick of garden season or just winding down, there's so much value in preserving just a small amount every day. Brittany shares what she's preserving in her own kitchen, ideas for saving food scraps and garden extras, and how it all adds up to real savings in time, energy, and money. From freezing leftover onions and carrots to drying herbs and making single jars of pickles or sauce, this episode is a gentle nudge to take tiny, consistent steps toward building your pantry—no marathon canning days required.

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

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

We're deep in garden season here in Northeast Ohio, and while things are starting to grow, so are the problems—mainly pests! In this chatty episode, we share what's been stealing our squash and cucumber flowers (spoiler: we suspect birds and raccoons), plus the low-pressure, organic-friendly methods we're using to deal with it all. From fencing and fake snakes to garden-safe sprays and a bit of "let-it-go" attitude, we're doing what we can and letting the rest go. Whether you're new to pest issues or just curious what's working for us this year, we hope this episode feels like a garden chat with a friend. What We Cover: Why all our squash flowers are mysteriously disappearing What we're doing to deter birds, raccoons, and maybe even possums A few affordable tools we're trying: fencing, fake snakes, pinwheels, and more Organic products we actually use (like Captain Jack's and diatomaceous earth) How we're handling fungus and when we just pull plants and move on Why we're harvesting tomatoes early this year (and how we freeze our carrots) Resources Mentioned: Captain Jack's Dead Bug Diatomaceous Earth for Ants Arber Bio Fungicide Our Facebook Group: The Homestead Challenge Community Let's Chat: What pests are giving you trouble this year—and how are you dealing with them? Come join the conversation in our free Facebook group!

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

Planning a backyard barbecue or garden party this summer? In this episode, I'm sharing easy, no-fuss ways to elevate your July 4th (or any summer) gathering using herbs, flowers, and simple ingredients from your garden—even if your harvest isn't quite rolling in yet. Whether you're hosting, heading to a potluck, or just want to add a little beauty to your table, these ideas will help you use what you have in fun, creative ways that spark conversation and joy.

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

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.