Do you feel like you never have time to cook from scratch the way you want to? Tried diving into the homesteading lifestyle only to end up feeling burnt out? Maybe you’re not even sure where to start. Are you ready to navigate the world of homesteading in a way that suits your modern life? In this podcast, you will find modern and practical solutions for your suburban homestead. I’m here to dish out quick and straightforward homesteading tips and home management systems, all geared towards intentional living and finding contentment. If you’re itching to kick off your homesteading journey on your terms, bid farewell to overwhelm and guilt—you’re in the right spot. Hey friend. I’m Brittany. Crunchy mom and wannabe homesteader. I’ve been down the road of trying to learn all the homesteady things… and then I hit the burnout wall. Attempting to master every internet-suggested skill all at once led to wasted time and, let’s be honest, quite a bit of wasted money. But guess what? It doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing ordeal. I’ve found a way to live out homesteading principles in my own modern style, letting go of some things and crafting a plan that sticks. And now, I’m here to guide you to do the same. If you’re ready to homestead in a way that meshes with your busy life— Join me and let’s make your homesteading goals a reality! Grab that sourdough starter from the back of your fridge, it’s time to rise.
Brittany Gibson - Beginner Homesteader
The Homestead Challenge Podcast is an excellent resource for anyone interested in suburban homesteading, food from scratch, and sustainable living. Hosted by Brittany Lynn of The Art of Living Beautifully, this podcast provides valuable information and inspiration for those looking to incorporate aspects of homesteading into their modern lifestyle.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is Brittany's knowledge and passion for the subject matter. She breaks down complex topics into easily understandable and actionable steps, making it accessible for beginners. Her soothing voice and energetic personality make for an enjoyable listening experience. Additionally, she provides helpful links and resources in each episode, allowing listeners to further explore the topics discussed.
The Homestead Challenge Podcast also excels at instilling a sense of empowerment in its listeners. Brittany emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to homesteading and encourages individuals to pick and choose what fits their home and lifestyle. This message takes away the pressure to do everything perfectly and encourages listeners to dive into homesteading at their own pace.
As with any podcast, there are a few potential drawbacks. Some listeners may find that certain episodes are more relevant or interesting to them than others, depending on their specific interests or stage in their homesteading journey. However, with a variety of topics covered in each episode, there is still plenty for everyone to learn from.
In conclusion, The Homestead Challenge Podcast is an invaluable resource for those interested in suburban homesteading and sustainable living. With Brittany's expertise and enthusiasm guiding the way, listeners can expect to gain valuable insights, tips, and inspiration for incorporating homesteading principles into their own lives. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience already, this podcast will surely leave you feeling inspired and ready to embark on your own homesteading journey.
In this episode, we're talking about the hidden consumerism that can sneak into the homesteading lifestyle and why it's so easy to buy the fantasy version of homesteading instead of actually living it. We chat about homestead perfectionism, comparison culture, overbuying supplies, hobby collecting vs. hobby doing, and why buying food for your family is not failure if you're actually using it. If you've ever felt pressure to have the perfect pantry, garden, or homesteading setup, this episode is a gentle reminder that simple, imperfect homesteading still counts. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we're talking about how to build homesteading community in the city or suburbs without starting a commune or forcing yourself to be extroverted. From community gardens and native plant sales to Facebook Marketplace swaps, school gardens, and local farm stands, I'm sharing simple, low-pressure ways to connect with other gardeners, homesteaders, and like-minded people right where you live. If you've been craving real community, local food connections, or fellow “weird” garden people, this episode will encourage you to start small and find your people. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/community-for-modern-homesteaders/
In this episode, we're talking about a simple homesteading mindset shift that has been helping me slow down, spend less impulsively, and feel more connected to my home: create before you consume. I'm sharing how homesteading hobbies like gardening, baking, organizing, and herbalism helped me stop constantly chasing more, plus practical ways to avoid perfectionism and consumerism in the homesteading lifestyle. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
In this episode of the The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we're talking about some of the best free plants for the garden — including self-seeding flowers and herbs, volunteer plants, and perennials you can divide again and again. From calendula and dill to chives, lemon balm, and surprise tomato plants popping up from the compost, these are the kinds of plants that help your garden become more abundant every single year. If you want to garden on a budget, simplify your garden planning, or create a lower-maintenance homestead garden, this episode is full of practical ideas for busy gardeners and small-space homesteaders. We'll also talk about why letting nature do a little of the work can make gardening feel more joyful, less expensive, and a whole lot less overwhelming. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/
Learn alongside me as we talk about 5 easy ferments I'm trying this summer that actually feel realistic for busy moms and small-scale homesteaders. In this episode, we're chatting about simple refrigerator pickles, sauerkraut, fermented salsa, kombucha, and easy veggie mixes—plus beginner fears, food safety, mold worries, and how to start fermenting without expensive equipment or crunchy perfectionism. If you've been curious about preserving your garden harvest naturally, this episode will help you feel confident enough to finally try it. Sauerkraut Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/homemade-sauerkraut-learn-to-ferment-from-a-total-newbie-i-promise-its-not-that-scary/ My Favorite Fermenting Equipment: https://a.co/d/03H99P3f
Today I am chatting all about growing cut flowers with Josie Blessing, author of The Homesteader's Guide to Cut Flowers, and why flowers are so much more than just “extra” in the garden. We talk about how to grow flowers even in small spaces, the best low-maintenance varieties for busy seasons, and how they support everything from pollinators to herbal remedies. If you've ever felt overwhelmed or unsure where to start, this episode will give you the confidence to just begin. Preorder The Homesteader's Guide to Cut Flowers on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4d4aQ2G (affiliate link)
We're celebrating 200 episodes of The Homestead Challenge podcast by reflecting on what homesteading has really brought into my life. In this episode, I'm answering a few candid questions about how I got started, how my definition of homesteading has changed, and why I still choose this lifestyle—even in busy seasons. If you've ever felt like you're not doing enough, this is your reminder that homesteading can be simple, flexible, and rooted in what brings you peace. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
In this episode, we're talking about the simple herbal products we should start now before summer hits—because things like bug spray, salves, and infused sprays take time to steep. We walk through what we're making right now (like herbal bug spray, dried mint for tea, and calendula salve) and how to think ahead so summer feels easier and more prepared. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
We're talking about the spring-to-summer transition in the garden and that weird lull where everything is planted but harvest hasn't fully begun. We walk through simple systems we're resetting now—like herb drying stations, freezer clean-outs, harvest flow, and kitchen organization—to make summer easier and less overwhelming. If you want to stay ahead of the chaos and actually enjoy your garden this season, this episode will help you set up rhythms that work in real life. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
We're talking about what to do with the spring herbs you can harvest right now—whether you're foraging things like dandelion and chickweed or clipping herbs from your garden like chives and mint. If you've ever picked herbs and then felt stuck, this episode walks you through three simple ways to use them, plus how to harvest without ruining the plant. It's a practical, no-pressure way to start actually using what's growing around you this season. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/
We're talking all about vertical tower gardens (like GreenStalks)—why we love them, who they're actually good for, and how they can fit into real life no matter your space. We're sharing what we're planting in ours this year, the honest differences between budget vs. higher-end options, and how you can even create a full herbal tea garden in one simple setup. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
We're talking about spring foraging for beginners and the easiest way to start—right in your own backyard. In this episode, we cover how to identify and use common edible weeds and wild herbs like henbit, dead nettle, stinging nettle, dandelion, wild violets, chickweed, plantain, garlic mustard, and wild chives, plus when to harvest different parts for the best flavor and benefits. If you've been curious about foraging but feel overwhelmed, this is your simple, no-pressure guide to finding edible plants growing around you this spring. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/violet-face-serum/
We're talking about organic pest control for your garden—what it really means, when to step in, and when to let things go. After dealing with an unexpected aphid issue on my seedlings, I'm sharing the products I actually use, how I think about health and exposure, and how to make these decisions without overthinking every little thing. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/companion-planting/
We're talking about how to avoid common plant nursery mistakes—from “healthy” looking plants that struggle after transplanting to soil deals that aren't actually deals. We'll walk through what to look for so we can shop smarter, save money, and grow a more successful garden this season. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
We thought prepping in March would make spring feel calm and manageable—but real life had other plans. In this episode, we're talking about what's actually helping right now, what we're letting go of, and how we're redefining “enough” during a busy, chaotic season. 15 Minute Routine: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/routine/
In this episode, we're sharing the simple summer cooking system that helps us keep feeding our families real food without spending all evening in the kitchen. We're talking about using the crockpot, making a few basics ahead of time, and creating an easy rhythm that works with our busy summer days. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
In this episode, we're talking about simple dry goods and convenience mixes we can prep now to make busy garden season so much easier. We walk through easy ideas like brownie mix, cornbread mix, and seasoning blends that help us cook from scratch without the extra time and mess. This is all about reducing mental load and setting ourselves up for a more peaceful, doable summer. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
We're heading into spring and taking a realistic look at what foods are actually worth growing versus just buying, using our own pantry habits as the guide. In this episode, we walk through simple filters to help us decide what makes sense for our space, budget, and goals—so we can grow with intention and skip the overwhelm. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/pantry/
In this episode of The Homestead Challenge, we kick off the Make It March series by looking at our pantries to help decide what we should grow in our gardens this year. Instead of planting randomly, we talk about how noticing what we actually eat, run out of, and keep buying can guide smarter garden planning and help us waste less food. This simple pantry inventory helps us connect our grocery habits, pantry staples, and garden goals before the busy growing season begins. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
In this episode, we're talking about the simple natural cleaning ingredients to keep on hand so you can clean almost anything without buying a cabinet full of products. I'll walk you through what vinegar, baking soda, washing soda, castile soap, peroxide, and alcohol actually do — plus which ones truly disinfect and when it's really necessary. If you want a practical, low-pressure approach to non-toxic cleaning, this episode will help you stock your home with confidence. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/all-natural-cleaning-supplies/
In this episode, we're talking about free ways to reduce toxins in our homes without buying new cleaning products or supplies. We'll walk through simple changes like removing plug-in air fresheners, skipping dryer sheets, cleaning our cleaning tools, and tackling hidden dust zones that hold onto pollutants. If you want a healthier home this spring without spending money, these small changes can make a surprisingly big impact. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
In this episode, we're diving into non-toxic spring cleaning and how to switch to natural cleaning products without throwing everything away. We'll walk through a simple, low-pressure plan for replacing conventional cleaners — starting with laundry detergent, dish soap, and everyday household products — plus what I actually use in my own home. If you've been wanting a healthier home without the overwhelm, this episode will help you start non-toxic cleaning one realistic swap at a time. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/category/sustainable-living/home/
In today's episode, we're wrapping up Apothecary February with a relaxed herbal Q&A. I'm answering your questions about overwintering herbs, how I store dried medicinal herbs, and how long they really last. We also talk about the five herbs I'd grow if I could only choose a few, natural herbs for seasonal allergies like nettle and mullein, and why homemade herbal skincare is one of the biggest “bang for your buck” projects. It's a cozy, honest close to a month of building a simple, no-pressure home apothecary. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/
In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we're having a cozy tea talk all about herbal tea for beginners. I'm sharing the herbs I actually use most often (like chamomile, lemon balm, nettle, hibiscus, and marshmallow root), how I brew herbal infusions and decoctions at home, and simple tips for blending loose leaf tea. We'll also talk about rosemary tea benefits, how to make herbal tea stronger for medicinal support, and when tea might not be the best herbal preparation (like when you need something fast or more concentrated). If you're learning how to brew herbal tea for stress, digestion, hydration, or seasonal immune support, this episode will help you feel more confident using herbs at home — without overwhelm. Plus, I'll share how I make tea a simple daily ritual in real life as a busy mom and home herbalist.
In this episode, we're talking about building a simple backyard first aid kit using herbs you can grow or forage. From calendula salve for scrapes and dry skin to plantain for bee stings, yarrow for minor bleeding support, lavender for soothing burns, and even cayenne for emergency clotting response — these are practical, real-life herbs for everyday situations. If you're planning your garden, this episode will give you ideas for herbs that are both beautiful and useful.
In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we're talking all about gut health — from mouth to intestines and everything in between. Brittany shares how the digestive system connects to the nervous system and immune system, and why so many modern health struggles may begin in the gut. You'll learn practical herbs for common digestive issues, including chamomile, peppermint, and ginger for upset stomachs, marshmallow root and flax for constipation, blackberry leaf and slippery elm for diarrhea support, and how digestive bitters like dandelion root can strengthen digestion over time. She also explains where turmeric fits into daily gut support and briefly touches on parasite-cleansing herbs in a balanced, realistic way. This episode focuses on gentle, daily herbal support — not extreme cleanses — and how small, consistent habits can help you build a healthier digestive system over time. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/what-are-herbal-bitters/
Adaptogens vs. Nervines: What's the Difference? Our nervous systems are overloaded — and not all stress-support herbs work the same way. In this episode, we break down the difference between adaptogens, nervines, and mood-supporting herbs, including calming vs. stimulating adaptogens and relaxant vs. tonic nervines. We also touch on herbs like St. John's Wort, mimosa, and lemon balm for seasonal blues and low mood. If you've ever tried an herb and wondered why it didn't work, this episode will help you understand which category might actually fit your current season — and how to use them safely and thoughtfully.
Episode Show Notes: Herbal Preparations 101 Teas, Infusions, Tinctures, Oils & Salves (Apothecary February) In this episode of Apothecary February, we're breaking down the most common herbal preparations I actually use at home—without overcomplicating things or pretending you need to become an herbalist overnight. We talk through teas and infusions, decoctions, tinctures, oil infusions, and salves, when each one makes sense, and how to choose a preparation that you'll realistically use for your family. This episode is especially helpful if you've ever felt overwhelmed by herbal recipes or unsure which method to use for which herb. In this episode, we cover: Why the way you prepare an herb really matters Herbal compliance: choosing preparations you'll actually take Teas vs. infusions vs. decoctions (and when to use each) When tinctures are helpful—and when they're unnecessary Alcohol vs. glycerin tinctures Why oil infusions are the foundation of so many herbal remedies How salves and balms are made (and why they're great beginner projects) Common beginner mistakes (like tincturing everything) How to choose the right preparation based on the herb and the body system you're supporting Herbal preparations discussed: Herbal teas & water infusions Decoctions for roots and tougher herbs Tinctures (alcohol & glycerites) Herbal oil infusions Salves and balms Helpful resources mentioned: How to Brew Herbal Tea: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/how-to-brew-herbal-tea-infusions-and-decoctions/ Herbal Bath Tea: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/bath-tea-with-comfrey/ Body Oil Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/lemon-balm-and-lavender-body-oil/ Lip Balm without Beeswax: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-infused-lip-balm-without-beeswax/ Wound Salve: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wound-salve/ Garlic & Mullein Ear Oil: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/garlic-mullein-herbal-oil/ Calm Heart Tincture: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/heart-tincture/
In this episode of Apothecary February, we're talking through the best herbs to grow for a home apothecary—and where to plant them so they don't take over your garden. We cover essential garden basics like annual vs. perennial herbs, direct sow vs. starting seeds indoors, and growing herbs in containers versus in the ground. You'll learn which herbs are beginner-friendly, which ones self-seed or spread aggressively, which can be invasive in North America, and which herbs are often better to buy than grow in small spaces. This episode is a practical, realistic guide to growing medicinal herbs in any size garden, from raised beds to patio containers. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/common-herbs-for-herbal-remedies/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
In this first episode of Apothecary February, we're setting realistic expectations for using herbs at home and building a strong, safe foundation for beginner and intermediate herbalists alike. This episode focuses on practical herbal education—without pressure to become an expert or “natural doctor” overnight. In this episode, we cover: What Apothecary February is (and what it's not) Why herbs are supportive tools, not standalone cures Buying herbs vs. growing your own (and why both are valid) Which herbs are best for beginners Where to buy high-quality herbs online Wildcrafted vs. organic herbs Common beginner mistakes when buying herbs Herbal safety basics and why contraindications matter How to read herbal books and monographs without overwhelm Why calendula and chamomile are “gateway herbs” Different ways to prepare herbs (teas, infusions, tinctures, oils, salves) Herbs Mentioned Calendula Chamomile Echinacea Feverfew Mullein Nettle Dandelion Resources & Links Mentioned Supplies for Apothecary February: https://www.amazon.com/shop/brittanylgibson/list/2W4977LYCHIZU?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_GEED11EVRXAZ61SSCS4W Free Calendula Salve Ebook Learn how to make calendula oil and salve—an easy, beginner-friendly first herbal project. https://thehomesteadchallenge.kit.com/a9dc7c0be5 Herb Buying Guide: Wild Harvested vs. Organic A deep dive into sourcing herbs and choosing between wildcrafted and certified organic options. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wild-harvested-vs-organic-herbs/ Herbal Safety Basics Learn how to research herbs, understand contraindications, and use herbs safely at home. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-safety-basics/ Beginner Herbal Book List (Being Updated) A curated list of trusted herbal books for beginners—without the overwhelm. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/7-best-books-on-herbalism-for-beginners-without-the-overwhelm/ Spring Gardening Summit (Free Online Event) A free online summit covering gardening, herbs, fermentation, gut health, and more. https://thehomesteadchallenge--audreyslittlefarm.thrivecart.com/gsk26-fast-action/679740ca1cb5c/ Recommended Herb Suppliers Frontier Co-op Mountain Rose Herbs Starwest Botanicals Final Note This episode is about learning slowly, safely, and realistically. You don't need to memorize everything, grow all your herbs, or feel perfectly confident to get started. Apothecary February is about building skills and confidence over time—without pressure or fear.
Winter can feel long and heavy, and sometimes leaning into “slow and cozy” just isn't enough. In this episode, we're talking about simple homesteading projects that bring spring energy into the dead of winter—like organizing seeds, fermenting, making jam from your freezer stash, growing microgreens and herbs indoors, and tackling garden-adjacent projects. These small, hopeful actions help beat the winter blues and remind us that growth doesn't have to wait for spring. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
In this episode, I'm sharing exactly what I'm planting in the garden in 2026 on my 1/4 acre homestead in the city and why these choices make sense for our real life, space, and season. We talk through what's staying, what we're letting go of, and how we're planning a garden that feels nourishing instead of overwhelming. If you're craving a more intentional, low-pressure garden plan this year, this one's for you.
We're talking about the fail days — and even fail seasons — that come with this lifestyle and why they don't mean you're doing anything wrong. From flat sourdough and bitter canned fruit to recipes that just don't work, we're sharing why trial and error is actually the point and how learning what fits your family, your taste, and your schedule is where real progress happens. If you've been feeling discouraged, this episode is a reminder that you're not alone and that slow, imperfect effort still counts. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
In this episode, we talk through a slower, more nourishing approach to homestead goal planning. Instead of big overhauls that lead to burnout, we focus on 12-week goals, micro habits, and habit stacking to turn good intentions into systems that actually fit real life. We also walk through a real-life example of how we're using our word of the year, Nourish, to plan goals that support our families without adding stress. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com
In this episode, we're sharing our word of the year—nourish—and what that actually looks like in real life. Instead of chasing big goals or a “new me,” we're focusing on supporting our body, home, routines, creativity, and mental load in a slower, more sustainable way. This episode is a gentle reminder that consistency often comes from care, not pressure. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
Before you start setting garden or homestead goals for the new year, there's something important to do first: prepare instead of rushing. In this episode, we talk about the simple things you can do right now to set yourself up for success—without pressure or overwhelm. We cover reflecting on last year, clearing physical and mental clutter, taking inventory of what you already have, deciding your real capacity, and why it's okay to make a “not this year” list. I'm also sharing a gentle challenge to help you prepare one area of your home or homestead before you ever write a goal. Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
I'm sharing a quiet end-of-year check-in, reflecting on what worked (and what didn't) in the past year, and talking through what I'm dreaming up for the year ahead. From reimagining community and challenges to launching a tiny local farm stand, this episode is all about planning gently—without pressure or overwhelm. Resources & Links Mentioned: Join the Homestead Challenge Private Facebook Group to vote on challenge names and join the conversation Sign up for emails at thehomesteadchallenge.com to stay in the loop Farm Stand Planner (coming soon to Etsy) Follow along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes updates
Seeing people seed starting in December can make it feel like you're already behind — especially if you live in a colder growing zone. In this episode, we're talking about what's actually worth planning for the garden this time of year, what can wait, and how to figure out your real planting timeline based on where you live (not what the internet is doing). If you're a new or intermediate gardener — or just need a gentle reminder to slow down — this episode will help you plan with confidence instead of stress. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why December gardening content can feel confusing The difference between planning season and planting season Why seed starting in December isn't necessary for most cold climates How to find your exact garden zone and last frost date The seed-starting calculator I personally use every year What is worth doing for your garden in December How I batch seed-starting dates to make spring easier Reflecting on last year's garden successes and flops Choosing garden priorities that actually fit your life Why rest is an important part of the growing season Helpful Garden Planning Links Mentioned: Find Your Last Frost Date Use your ZIP code to find your exact last frost date: https://www.almanac.com/gardening/frostdates Seed Starting Date Calculator (My Favorite) This is the most robust and easiest-to-use calculator I've found: https://www.johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/seed-planting-schedule-calculator.html Garden Planner + Seed Organizing Binder Inserts If you like having everything organized in one place, I have both available in my Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/HomesteadChallenge Join the Community: Come share your garden plans (or seed-starting photos!) inside our free Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
In this episode, we're walking through a simple Friday Reset designed specifically for busy December weekends. With holiday activities filling up our schedules, we're focusing on quick, doable steps that help us lower stress, clear a little space in our homes, and set ourselves up to actually enjoy the magic instead of rushing through it. We talk about choosing our non-negotiables, doing a fast holiday tidy, prepping food for the weekend, setting up cozy moments like a hot cocoa station, and reconnecting with homestead rhythms—whether that's grabbing a few herbs from the garden, foraging evergreens, checking the pantry, or doing a quick emergency prep check. A little bit of intention on Friday can shift the entire tone of the weekend, helping us feel calmer, more present, and ready to savor the parts of December that matter most. Links Mentioned: Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com Instagram: @brittanylgibson
Homemade gifts can be thoughtful and practical — if people actually know how to use them. In this episode, we're sharing our favorite high-compliance DIY gifts for non-crunchy friends and family, so your handmade presents don't end up forgotten in the back of a cabinet. We talk about why most homemade gifts fail (lack of familiarity, unclear instructions, or feeling too “crunchy”) and how to fix that by making your gifts familiar, foolproof, and easy to use in real life. These ideas are perfect for last-minute holiday gifts or any time you want to give something personal without pressure.
Five years into my homesteading journey, I'm looking back at what actually worked, what caused burnout, and what I truly wish I had known as a beginner. In this episode, I'm walking you through the exact roadmap I would follow if I were starting completely over today — with less pressure, fewer gadgets, and a whole lot more joy. This is a gentle, realistic look at modern homesteading for real life — especially if you're in the city, short on space, time, or energy. In this episode, we cover: Why joy should always be your starting point How trying to learn everything at once leads to burnout Choosing 1–2 skills at a time to focus on Building skills before buying tools and equipment Learning preservation before growing everything yourself Why consistency beats perfection every time How social media comparison derails beginners Homesteading in small spaces without waiting for “someday” Why the long game creates real sustainability
It's officially December, and we're starting our year-end reflection a little early around here. In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we talk honestly about what actually worked on our city homestead this year—and what completely flopped. From simplifying garden projects and freezing tomatoes to sourdough struggles, slow home projects, and a few disappointing garden losses, this is a real-life look at homesteading without the highlight reel. If you've had a year with both wins and messy moments, you're not alone—and this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why choosing only one big garden project changed everything How freezing tomatoes instead of canning immediately reduced burnout A DIY herbal bug spray win that actually worked Leaning into convenience appliances like the crockpot, bread machine & air fryer How meal planning around milk & meat delivery simplified grocery shopping The power of habit stacking (laundry + breakfast) An incredible herb harvest that's still producing in December Why my sourdough starter died twice Projects that took way longer than expected (hello, brick patio) Garden disappointments: no pumpkins, no zucchini, small garlic Why every garden has failures—and that's normal This episode is all about realistic homesteading, adjusting expectations, and giving yourself permission to grow slowly and imperfectly.
Winter is supposed to be the season where everything finally slows down… but for many of us, it quickly becomes another round of pressure to plan next year's garden, stock the pantry, bake everything from scratch, and add even more to our already full plates. In this episode, I'm sharing the three homesteading tasks I'm not doing this winter so I can actually rest—and the two cozy, meaningful projects I am embracing to stay connected to my homestead in a way that fits my real life. We're talking about: Why I'm not starting every seed in January How I'm resisting the urge to buy another pantry shelf's worth of groceries The kitchen gadgets I'm saying no to (even on Black Friday!) The herbal products I'm creating with what I dried over the summer Why winter preserving—like dealing with those freezer tomatoes—actually feels easier If you've felt the pressure to “do all the things” in the winter homestead season, this episode will give you permission to simplify, slow down, and choose what truly matters in your current season of life. Related Episodes Ep 159. Pantry Restock The Smart Way: How to Refill without Overwhelm or Overspending Ep 5: Homestead Confessions: Expensive Kitchen Gadgets I Regret Buying (Don't waste your money!)
If you've ever felt like herbalism requires a huge apothecary or a ton of expensive ingredients, this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air. Today, we're talking about the everyday pantry staples you probably already have on hand that double as powerful herbal wellness tools — perfect for cold and flu season and practical homesteading on a budget. In this episode, I'm walking through eight simple pantry ingredients that support immunity, digestion, inflammation, stress relief, and overall wellness: ginger, garlic, cinnamon, honey, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, chamomile, and lemon. These are the no-pressure, real-life remedies that modern homesteaders can use daily without buying anything fancy or overwhelming. Daily Wellness Shot: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wellness-shot/ Garlic Mullein Ear Oil: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/garlic-mullein-herbal-oil/ Subscribe on YouTube The Homestead Challenge podcast is officially expanding! Search “The Homestead Challenge” on YouTube or click below and hit subscribe so you'll know when new episodes drop. https://www.youtube.com/@thehomesteadchallenge
In today's episode, we're talking about rethinking rest during the holiday season and why traditional “relaxation” doesn't always make us feel restored. If you're overwhelmed by holiday expectations, juggling motherhood, managing a busy home, or trying to keep up with homesteading tasks while feeling exhausted, this conversation is for you. After weeks of dealing with a lingering sinus infection, I realized that true rest isn't always about slowing down, sitting on the couch, or doing nothing. Instead, I discovered that my body and nervous system felt more rested when I prioritized connection, movement, simple accomplishments, and intentional comfort rituals—all things that helped reduce stress more than “relaxing” ever did. Inside this episode, we explore: Why holiday overwhelm hits so hard (and why rest feels impossible) The unexpected thing that finally helped my nervous system reset How a simple girls' night helped my body start to heal Why sitting still can sometimes increase anxiety and mental load How to find rest through connection (girls' nights, date nights, family time) How to feel restored through accomplishment and finishing lingering tasks What “rest through movement” looks like in real life Simple sensory comfort ideas to bring peace back into your home How stress impacts your immune system and overall homestead routine Practical ways to feel grounded, calm, and prepared going into the holiday season Whether you're navigating motherhood, trying to stay consistent with homesteading routines, or just craving a calmer December, you'll learn how to identify your personal rest style so you can support your mental health, reduce stress, and create a holiday season that actually feels good.
In this episode, we're talking about what you can still forage in November—even if there's snow on the ground. I share six easy-to-identify wild foods and herbs like pine needles, rose hips, late-season mushrooms, acorns, crab apples, and black walnuts that can stretch your grocery or medicine budget. Plus, I chat about my failed attempt at extreme couponing and why foraging feels like a much more peaceful (and practical) way to get “free” things from nature this time of year. Evergreen Recipes https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/evergreen-bath-salts/ https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/simple-winter-evergreen-simmer-pot-recipe/ https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/cedar-face-toner/
In this episode, we're talking about herbal compliance — the simple truth that herbs only work if you actually take them. After being sick all week and realizing she barely used her herbs, Brittany shares five super practical ways to make herbal remedies easier and more convenient to use when you're not feeling your best. From pre-filling tincture shots to creating a “sick day” herbal basket, this episode is all about setting yourself up for success before cold and flu season hits. Cold and Flu Tea Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-tea-for-cold-and-flu/
In this episode, we're talking about how to restock your pantry intentionally after the Pantry Challenge so you can avoid waste, overspending, and overwhelm. Brittany shares practical tips for creating a core pantry list that actually fits your family's needs, restocking slowly on a budget, and organizing for function over perfection. It's all about building a pantry that supports real life—not one that looks Pinterest-perfect.
In this episode, we're challenging ourselves to free up $500 before Christmas by shopping our pantries instead of the grocery store. We talk about how to take inventory, build meal plans using what we already have, and make it fun with a visual savings tracker. It's all about using our resources wisely, wasting less, and creating a little extra breathing room before the holidays. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity
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
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