Plans and Provisions Homestead

As my family enters our second year of homesteading, I’ve been able to look back over that first year and realize that we really are on a journey.  It feels great to plan for the year ahead knowing that we’re no longer starting from the beginning, but actually building on and continuing our efforts.  I can imagine that in several years, after growing, building and learning valuable lessons, the feeling will be even more profound.   On today’s episode, I welcome Greg and Marrianne Russell of Rockbridge Farmstead.  They’ve been on their property now for almost 9 years and seem to have figured out what works for them on their homestead.  Through trial and error they’ve found the things they enjoy, the things that can bring in revenue, as well as the things that they really just don’t want to mess with.  Over the past 3 years, they have taken a deep dive into the world of beekeeping and found something that, not only makes them money, but brings them joy and satisfaction and, well, I imagine they never run out of honey. TOPICS DISCUSSED: * How they found themselves on their homestead in Kentucky * The story of their first few years on their homestead and some of the early lessons learned * The challenges of adding young children to the mix and how they got through it * Their experiences with raising pigs and goats and why they ended up moving on from those projects * How beekeeping became their primary revenue model for their homestead and their long term plans for that project * How they saved money by building their own beehives * How they quickly grew to 42 hives and lost half of them to a flash flood * Their use of bee products to produce value added products such as balms and candles to sell * The need for homesteaders to not try and take everything on and just focus on what they really need and enjoy * Their advice for new homesteaders just starting out on their journey LISTEN TO THE ROCKBRIDGE FARMSTEAD PODCAST: https://www.rockbridgefarmstead.com/podcast/ VISIT THE ROCKBRIDGE FARMESTEAD WEBSITE: https://www.rockbridgefarmstead.com/ CONNECT WITH THEM ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/rock_bridge_farmstead/ GET THE FREE HOMESTEADING RESOURCES FOR 2023 DOWNLOAD HERE: https://plansandprovisions.com/HR2023 CONNECT WITH ME ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/plansandprovisions/

It’s the first Friday of March so that means it’s time for an update on everything that’s been going on around the homestead.   TOPICS DISCUSSED: * We’re celebrating one year of the Plans and Provisions Podcast this week!   * Seed planting has begun with several onion varieties and a bunch of brassicas getting started indoors * Garden prep for spring planting has begun * We’re back to breeding our rabbits * Our plans for new livestock GET THE FREE HOMESTEAD RESOURCES FOR 2023 DOWNLOAD: https://plansandprovisions.com/HR2023 VISIT THE PLANS AND PROVISIONS WEBSITE: https://plansandprovisions.com INTRO/OUTRO VOICEOVER PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com

What happens if I can’t get chicken feed.  Are there alternatives to the feed store?  Do chickens have to eat layer pellets to lay eggs?  What are they putting in chicken feed?  Will the price of chicken feed keep going up? I can’t really give you an answer to all of those questions, but the fact that they need to be asked has really got me thinking.  In this solo episode, I talk about several ways in which I will be working toward reaching sustainability in regards to our flock of laying chickens.  TOPICS DISCUSSED: * Fermentation of commercial feed as a way to expand the volume and improve it’s digestibility. * Raising insects like mealworms, black soldier flies and silk worms to begin producing more of your chickens protein on the homestead. * The long term strategy of planting fodder trees around the homestead to help provide for a portion of their feed. * The pros and cons of free ranging and why I am in the process of significantly reducing the practice on my homestead. * Growing crops such as sunflowers and winter squash to provide food stores for the leaner times of the year * The philosophy of flock management and the necessity of a proper culling schedule GET THE FREE HOMESTEAD RESOURCES FOR 2023 DOWNLOAD: https://plansandprovisions.com/HR2023 LINKS:  BLACK SOLDIER FLY BIN TUTORIAL: https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/how-to/love-your-larvae/11184864 MODERN HOMESTEADING PODCAST EPISODE 181: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/growing-insects-for-small-livestock-feed/ PRESENTATION ON FODDER TREES:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Yqm3qM0biU  VISIT THE PLANS AND PROVISIONS WEBSITE: https://plansandprovisions.com INTRO/OUTRO VOICEOVER PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com

I’ve said it before and it’s certainly said a lot in the homestead world, chickens are the ultimate gateway animal.  For many, the first time they got a few laying hens in the backyard was the point at which they would say they first started their homestead journey.  For my wife and I, it all started with 4 hens and 2 ducks and only grew from there as we forged ahead on our path.  We had to start somewhere and, while due to lack of experience that first backyard flock sadly didn’t last us very long, we learned valuable lessons that we would apply to our every expanding homestead journey. In today’s episode, I welcome Jake and Becky who share how they got their start on their journey with 6 hens on a rented one acre homestead.   Things really took off from their as they grew their flock, outgrew their first homestead and began building a very successful YouTube channel called “White House on The Hill”. TOPICS DISCUSSED: * How they were inspired to pursue a homesteading lifestyle by watching YouTube channels like Justin Rhodes and Farm Marketing Solutions (John Suscovich) * How their original flock of 6 hens grew to the point of needing a larger property * How they grew their channel to becoming a full-time income * Their advice for those working to build their own content creation business * Their early challenges getting established and making the leap financially into full time homesteading and content creation * How they’ve dealt with criticism and negativity as their online reach grew * They’re decision to maintain transparency on their channel and showing the bad times as well as the good. * How they got started hatching their own eggs and their experience trying and testing lots of different incubators * How they hatched their way to a menagerie of exotic birds on their homestead. * Their experience raising emu’s on their homestead and their hopes to breed them * They both give their advice to those just getting started on their homestead journey CHECK OUT THE WHITE HOUSE ON THE HILL YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@whitehouseonthehill WHITE HOUSE ON THE HILL'S INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/whitehouseonthehill/ GET THE FREE HOMESTEAD RESOURCES FOR 2023 DOWNLOAD: https://plansandprovisions.com/HR2023 VISIT THE PLANS AND PROVISIONS WEBSITE: https://plansandprovisions.com INTRO/OUTRO VOICEOVER PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com

What do chickens eat?  Are chickens vegetarians?  Can chickens eat my kitchen scraps?  Why aren't my chickens laying eggs?  Are backyard chicken eggs cheaper than store bought eggs?   In this solo show I share some of the things that I think are important for new chicken owners to know as they get started with the ultimate "gateway animal" on their homestead.  There's been a lot of talk lately about egg prices and issues with chicken feed and I thought I should put my two cents in. If you'd like to join me next week for the FREE 2-week Homestead Income Workshop being hosted by Mona Weathers, just click the link below and I'll be sure to send you an invite. FREE 2-WEEK HOMESTEAD INCOME WORKSHOP SIGNUP:  https://fantastic-thinker-849.ck.page/8e14901726 CONNECT WITH ME ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/plansandprovisions/ VISIT THE WEBSITE: https://www.plansandprovisions.com/ INTRO/OUTRO VOICEOVER PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com/

Getting started on your homestead journey is truly exciting and, for many, it’s something that may have been on the drawing board for many years.  In the year or two prior to moving onto my homestead, I spent countless hours reading and watching videos, trying to absorb as much as I could that I hoped would help in my new journey.  While there is tremendous  value in having so many resources to turn to for information and inspiration, there is the chance that we can develop unrealistic expectations, which can develop into stumbling blocks during out first steps on our journey. Today’s guest has a message that, in my opinion, is absolutely critical to anyone who plans to start homesteading.  Her name is Leah Lynch and she provides guidance and resources to help folks take control of their time and money, as well as to make intentional, intelligent decisions toward their homesteading goals.  She teaches small livestock care, time management and homestead income strategies through her blog, YouTube channel and online community. TOPICS DISCUSSED: * Leah shares the top reasons she believes homesteaders find themselves “broke and burned out” * How to use time blocking to make good decisions that fit your available time and abilities * The importance of not comparing yourself to others and just focusing on your own path * The need to run your homestead like a business, whether you are after profit or not. * The 5 things to consider when planning a new venture on your homestead * Some thoughts on how to choose profitable options for raising livestock * A formula for making significant money off of a small flock of laying hens * How to “clean up the mess” for those whose homesteads haven’t turned out as expected * The need to be cautious and intentional with attachment toward your animals that will be consumed or sold * Her philosophy of gardening that focuses on growing things that either save money or she really enjoys eating LEAH'S WEBSITE AND BLOG - https://leah-lynch.com LEAH'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL - http://youtube.com/@LeahLynchBlog PROFITABLE BACKYARD FARM EBOOK -  https://leah-lynch.com/profitable-backyard-farm-playbook PRODUCTIVE BACKYARD FARMERS CLUB -  https://leah-lynch.com/join GET THE FREE PLANS AND PROVISIONS HOMESTEAD RESOURCES FOR 2023 DOWNLOAD: https://plansandprovisions.com/HR2023 VISIT THE PLANS AND PROVISIONS WEBSITE: https://plansandprovisions.com INTRO/OUTRO VOICEOVER PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com/

After taking a much needed break during the month of January, I'm back with an update on everything that's been going on around the homestead.  It's mostly been a month of spending time indoors and planning for the warmer, longer days of spring and summer.   I did get some things done outside around the homestead recently and I've made some changes to the podcast starting this month.   DOWNLOAD THE FREE HOMESTEADING RESOURCES FOR 2023: https://plansandprovisions.com/HR2023 CONNECT WITH ME ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/plansandprovisions/ VISIT THE WEBSITE: https://plansandprovisions.com INTRO/OUTRO VOICEOVER PROVIDED BY: https://sweetteafilms.com

In this solo show I share some of our biggest successes and failures in our first year of homesteading.  I also share some of my vision for 2023 here on the homestead. I also announce that I will be taking a break from podcasting for the month of January.  Lots of great content coming your way next year as well as some new developments you won't want to miss! CONNECT WITH ME ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/plansandprovisions/ VISIT THE WEBSITE: hhtps://plansandprovisions.com INTRO/OUTRO VOICEOVER PROVIDED BY: https://sweetteafilms.com

Food is at the heart of every life, every home and every community, but sadly that fact has slowly been forgotten over many decades of progress in the centralized and industrialized food systems in America.  Replaced by processed, adulterated and factory farmed foods, many of the traditions of the American food culture have not only been forgotten, but in many cases outright shunned. Well today I welcome back Judson Carroll, a true American omnivore who not only has a passion for eating and cooking a variety of foods, but has shared that knowledge and passion with the world through his recent book “The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else” TOPICS DISCUSSED: * Judson’s story of learning to cook from his Grandmother * The basics of how to raise snails for food and the fact that their eggs are very similar to caviar * The decline of the family table and community meals * The loss of food culture and traditions in America * The value of eating as seasonally and locally as possible for the best possible health * The possibilities offered by eating small game such as groundhog, which can be compared to high quality pork * The diversity of edible aquatic species and the folly of the designation of some species as “trash fish” * The inherent prejudices developed by many against eating certain foods and how/why that has come to be * A little history of soup in America * Some tips and tricks for home fermentation including some great recipe ideas like fermented hot sauce and “redneck kimchi” VISIT JUDSON'S SUBSTACK: https://judsoncarroll.com LISTEN TO JUDSON'S SOUTHERN APPALACHIAN HERBS PODCAST: APPLE:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/southern-appalachian-herbs/id1540427015 SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3NBHEtJe8IXmlnFvCdmDox BUY JUDSON'S COOKBOOK: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

It's the first Friday of December so that means it's time for an update on everything that's been going on around the homestead. It's a slow time of year, but we did get some chicken butchering done over the past month and the freezer is packed.  I share some of our ups and downs in our rabbitry and reflect on a full year of homesteading on our new property. CONNECT WITH ME ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/plansandprovisions/ VISIT THE WEBSITE: hhtps://plansandprovisions.com INTRO/OUTRO VOICEOVER PROVIDED BY: https://sweetteafilms.com

The homesteading movement is indeed a rapidly growing movement and with that comes the fact that there are lots of newcomers to this way of life.  In many ways, the movement away from more conventional ways of life is a radical change for many who find themselves going against the grain of many decades of culture and conditioning.  There are lots of unforeseen challenges that, quite honestly, aren’t really being addressed in much of the current content surrounding the homesteading movement. Well today’s guest has set out to address some of those very issues which really have nothing to do with the nuts and bolts of homestead life.  Her name is Mona Weathers and she is the host of the “Homesteading for Beginners Podcast”, where she plays the role of “homestead coach” to new homesteaders, as well as homestead dreamers. TOPICS OF DISCUSSION: * Mona’s definition of the word homesteading * The importance of starting your homesteading journey where you are rather than waiting for the perfect situation * The importance of getting connected with community * The value of relying on trading with your community rather than taking on everything in the quest for self-sufficiency * The two most common challenges new homesteaders face * How to avoid overwhelm through planning and cautious movement forward * The concept of developing multiple income streams to build a strong, long term financial position on your homestead * The need to get back to working as a community and get away from the conditioning the be as independent as possible * What motivated her to start the Homesteading for Beginners Podcast * What people can expect by joining the Homesteading for Beginners Community LISTEN TO MONA'S PODCAST ON APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/homesteading-for-beginners/id1636732326 LISTEN TO MONA'S PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4jG3YZ9yxdZZxvtSX4elW1?si=YR4g8EorTkimDFrPemMfAw&nd=1 CHECK OUT MONA'S WEBSITE: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com CONNECT WITH MONA ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/farmer_mona/ INTRO/OUTRO VOICEOVER PROVIDED BY: https://sweetteafilms.com

As my family heads into our second year on our homestead, the idea of having a milk cow has fallen in and out of favor as we plan and dream of the future.  There’s no doubt the allure of having fresh milk, butter, sour cream and (most importantly) homemade cheese on our homestead, but so far, we have made no plans to add any dairy animals to our land.  We love the idea, as I’m sure many of you do, but are cautious to move forward with such a large commitment and have concerns over what it would take to work that system into our current lifestyle. Well, today’s guest is, in my opinion, one of the very best resources for those who are interested in diving into the world of homestead level dairy production.  Her name is Robyn Jackson, and through her online business “Cheese from Scratch” she teaches, inspires and connects cheesemakers and milkmaids from all over the world.   TOPICS OF DISCUSSION: * The differences between beef and dairy breeds and her plans to cross a Jersey and beef breed in the future for hybrid vigor * Starting to make cheese from purchased milk as a great fundamental homestead practice * The difference between pasteurized and ultra-pasteurized milk in regards to cheesemaking * The fermentation process of cheesemaking using lactic bacteria * There’s a cheese for everybody and the basic gear and ingredients needed to get started * Taking steps to close loops of supply by developing a ‘clabber culture’ * The value of feta, brie, mozzarella and ricotta as beginner cheese recipes * The stigma around owning a dairy animal and the reality of planning life around a milking schedule * You don’t have to make a large variety of cheeses but should find what fits your lifestyle and location to determine your ‘homestead cheese’ * How to manage a schedule for the year and fit the extra work of cheesemaking into your life * How children can become a fun component of the dairy lifestyle ROBYN'S CHEESEMAKING 101 COURSE: https://cheesefromscratch.com/course/homestead-cheesemaking-101-course/ THE MILKMAID SOCIETY: https://cheesefromscratch.com/milk-maid-society/ ROBYN'S INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cheese_from_scratch_/ THE CHEESE FROM SCRATCH WEBSITE: https://cheesefromscratch.com/ SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprov

It's the first Friday of November so that means it's time for another update on what's been going on around the homestead. In this update, I share: * A hard freeze has brought an official end to the gardening season * The continued work to preserve the abundance of tomatoes we grew * Our first litter of kits (baby rabbits) was born and died all within 24 hours * We’re expecting another litter and hoping for a better outcome * The success in getting our Cornish Cross chickens harvested and how the kids have been adapting to the experience * The health and growth of our beef calves * The loss of water pressure on the homestead due to a failing well pump SUPPORT THIS PODCAST: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprov INTRO VOICE OVER PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com/

As my family’s first year on our homestead comes to a close, we’ve begun to look into the next year or two and envision what reasonable growth and development on our property might look like.  As we reflect on the challenges and successes of our ‘rookie year’ of homesteading, we’re filled with excitement and gratitude to realize just how much of a foundation we’ve laid for the years to come.  Despite feeling sometimes like we haven’t done enough, we’ve come to understand the time it takes to build something like this and why homesteading is often referred to as a journey. On today’s episode, I welcome Austin and Rebekah Lebahn as they share their story of how they left the city and completely changed their family’s lives.  They started their homesteading journey as a totally citified couple who, when the opportunity arrived, were among the least likely candidates to buy the family farm.   Four years later, these unlikely travelers on the homestead path are, not only homesteading on their 330 acre farm, but they’re selling pasture raised poultry and beef direct to consumers in their local market. In this episode, Austin and Rebekah share: * How they were a “totally citified” couple who were unlikely candidates to buy the family farm * The fear of leaving the familiarity of a conventional life into a new rural culture * Leaving the established rhythm of suburban life into the new rhythm of farming and homesteading * How they had to learn to set priorities and boundaries to establish a functional rhythm  * The early struggles of trying to monetize the farm and how moving too fast cost them momentum * Their transition to direct to consumer marketing and how that put some wind in their sails * The challenges of learning to do things the natural way as they transitioned their farm from chemical dependence * The importance of community in getting them through the tough times * How their children soared to the occasion of this radical change of lifestyle * Their transition from public school to homeschooling * How they learned humility through struggles in raising livestock and how that helped them drive through the hard times * Their drive to provide the experience and opportunity for their children to embrace the farming lifestyle as adults CONNECT WITH AUSTIN AND REBEKAH ON FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/lebahnfarm CONNECT WITH AUSTIN AND REBEKAH BY EMAIL: Lebahnfarm@gmail.com SIGN UP FOR THE PLANS AND PROVISIONS NEWSLETTER: https://www.plansandprovisions.com SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprov

Many of us in the homesteading movement are making major life changes as we work toward a simpler, but not necessarily easier, way of life.  It takes great courage to step away from the security and familiarity of convention into a world that is, for many of us, unfamiliar.  The promise of a better life drives us into that new world and the challenges we face are met with the determination to truly live the dream we have for ourselves and our families. My guest today is someone who, three years ago, took that leap with his family into the world of homesteading.  Leaving behind a mainstream, suburban life and a couple of corporate careers, Greg Sweeton and his wife Laura stepped out to carve out a new way of living for their family.  They faced the new challenges of homestead living head on and, in just a few short years have developed systems of abundance for their family and the community that they live in. Topics of discussion: * How Greg raises New Zealand White rabbits, Dexter Cattle, hogs in silvopasture as well as utilizes multi-species rotational grazing with Cornish Cross chickens and Katahdin-Dorper Cross sheep. * How health issues drove Greg and his wife toward a Keto diet and, ultimately buying a small farm/homestead. * How the movie “Food, Inc.” was a major inspiration and the influence that Joel Salatin has had on their decision to homestead. * His experience using a Chickshaw and Meatshaw, both designs by Justin Rhodes. * Perfectionism and its hindrance to progress. * Learning to adapt to your own homestead context through constant problem solving * The joys of raising children on a homestead and homeschooling * The challenges of leaving corporate life and consumer culture to become more independent and truly productive * How they developed side hustles and eventually started Shepherd’s Crook Coffee. * The philosophy of planning your homestead production around a seasonal diet. BUY SHEPHERD’S CROOK COFFEE: https://www.shepherdscrookcoffee.com/ FOLLOW SHEPHERD’S CROOK ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/shepherdscrookcoffee/ FOLLOW TRUNORTH FARM ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/trunorthfarm/ SUPPORT THIS PODCAST: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprov SIGN UP FOR THE PLANS AND PROVISIONS NEWSLETTER: https://www.plansandprovisions.com/landing-page/ VOICEOVER INTRO/OUTRO PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com/

It's the first Friday of October so that means it's a time for an update on what's been going on around our homestead.  In this episode, I share: * How we're processing our abundance of tomatoes and the race to get them inside as ripe as possible before the first frost * Our success with winter squash like Musque De Provence and North Georgia Candyroaster * Our hopes for a fall potato harvest * Our plans for cover crops over winter * Lessons learned from our first season of gardening on our homestead and our plans for using weed mat and drip irrigation next year * The abundance of black walnuts that we’re currently harvesting and how we’re getting them out of the husk and ready for cracking * The health of our flock of meat birds and the success of the recently built chicken tractor * The experience of processing our first chickens on the homestead * Our failed first attempt at breeding our New Zealand rabbits and how we’re trying again * The very noticeable gains of our bottle calves after the blessing of rain in August SUPPORT THIS PODCAST: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprov INTRO VOICE OVER PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com/

We are blessed to live in a time where we have access to more information and communication opportunities than ever before.  Those opportunities are nowhere any more apparent than in the homesteading movement, where we enjoy an abundance of forums, YouTube channels, online communities, live events and podcasts—to name a few.  These resources are critical in that they not only provide practical knowledge and skills, but also bring people together and help build community. In todays episode, I welcome Harold Thornbro—the founder and co-host of the Modern Homesteading Podcast.  He lives in a suburban neighborhood where he pushes the limits of what can be done on a small property, all while maintaining a neighbor friendly appearance.  In addition to his fantastic podcast, he blogs regularly at redemptionpermaculture.com, as well as hosts an Facebook community called the homestead front porch. In this episode, we discuss: * Harold’s bout with an aggressive form of cancer and how that drove him to a Keto diet * How he began growing his own food and how that led him to begin to learn to cook * What challenges he faced as he developed his suburban homestead * How he developed perennial food forest systems on his property * The idea of ‘edible landscaping’ and how that concept has helped him maintain a good relationship with his neighbors * The benefits of raising qual for eggs and meat * Using cover crops in the garden * The idea that we should all get started where we are on our homesteading journey CHECK OUT THE MODERN HOMESTEADING PODCAST: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/category/podcast/ JOIN THE HOMESTEAD FRONT PORCH FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/HomesteadFrontPorch VISIT HAROLD'S BLOG: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/ SUPPORT THIS PODCAST: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprov INTRO VOICE OVER PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com/

#023 - In a time where inflation and supply chain issues are everyday  topics, it’s easy to fixate on cost and scarcity concerns when it comes  to managing our resources.  Many of us have, undoubtedly, taken on a new  project  out of one concern or another and then found ourselves  enjoying other benefits well outside of our original motivations.  After  realizing the massive price increase of honey this summer, I started  questioning whether or not adding bees to my homestead was a realistic  goal, and whether doing so would provide more than just free honey. In today’s episode, I welcome back Bobby Jimenez of the Rabbitry Center to share his passion for beekeeping which actually started from his desire to improve pollination on his homestead.  7 years after his initial dive into the craft, he manages a number of hives on several properties as well as hosts a YouTube channel where he shares his knowledge and enthusiasm for keeping bees. Bobby shares how he jumped into beekeeping head first and without much initial knowledge and how, through consistent observation and determination, he has reaped rewards well beyond his initial expectations.  We discuss different management options available to new beekeepers as well as different strategies to  making money from your bees.  We also talk about the seasonal tasks required to be successful and Bobby shares the next steps for anyone interested in getting started. Key discussion points: All natural beekeeping vs. treatments, raising bees for honey vs. raising bees to sell nucs, finding community through local beekeeping groups, biggest challenges every beekeeper will face, unexpected benefits of raising bees, pollination. VISIT BOBBY'S WEBSITE: https://bobbysbeez.com VISIT BOBBY'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTUDI6Nm5cd4ENkT_qK7HBg VISIT MY RESOURCES PAGE: https://www.plansandprovisions.com/resources/ SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprov INTRO VOICE OVER PROVIDED BY: https://www.sweetteafilms.com

Support the show #022 - We all have different reasons for wanting to homestead and even different definitions of what exactly the word homesteading means.  We’re all drawn to different aspects of the homestead way of life and the possibilities are endless when it comes to the combinations of different plants, animals and practices you can find at the individual homestead level.  We also all have different skill sets and blessings, but also varying limitations such as climate, property size and local regulations. Well today’s guest was drawn to homesteading from a personal desire for a better way of life, but then was driven forward by the will to survive.  Her name is Rachel Jamison and early in her adult life she found herself facing multiple severe health issues that made producing her own nutrient dense food not only a desire, but an absolute necessity.  Many years later she now, not only lives a life of abundant health, but also inspires others through her example and by co-hosting the wonderful “Modern Homesteading Podcast”. We get to hear about her early journey in homesteading and how she was able to restore her, and her family’s health by taking control of their food.  We talk about homesteading as a matter of the heart and how important it is to ‘grow where you’re planted’, rather than wait for the perfect set of circumstances.  She shares some of the ways that she has built community over the years and even gets into some of the details of what she has done to build healthy soil on her property. CHECK OUT THE MODERN HOMESTEADING PODCAST: https://redemptionpermaculture.com/category/podcast/ CONNECT WITH RACHEL ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/invites/contact/?i=91tw5kwiipn9&utm_content=qsh427 SOIL TEST AMENDMENT GUIDE: https://growabundant.com/organic-amendments-users-guide/ SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://buymeacoffee.com/plansnprov

#021 - It's time for an update of everything that's been going on around the homestead over the past month. Still learning some tough lessons in the garden, but bringing in baskets of produce as well. Having some breakthroughs in our rabbitry and the steer calves are putting on weight.Celebrating 6 months of the podcast with some new arrivals on the homestead.VISIT MY RESOURCES PAGE:https://www.plansandprovisions.com/resources/SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#020 - I’ve heard it said that, over the past few years, we’ve seen a back to the land movement on a level never before seen in this nation.  As the monolith of centralized and industrialized food production continues it’s decline, more and more people are taking a step or two back and learning how to do things in ways that have mostly been lost over the past few generations.  Many of us are eager to learn but at a real deficit in direct learning as a result of the cultural shift toward convenience over the past several decades.My guest today has a different story than most of us as his family has occupied the same piece of land for about 200 years, living in ways that many of us are trying to learn today.  His name is Justin Metcalf and he is not only an 8th generation homesteader but he is also what is known as a traditional millwright.  His Youtube channel “Metcalf Mills” is a fantastic resource for those interested in learning traditional skills, as well as those with a curiosity about Appalachian history.In our conversation, Justin shares the history of his grandfather’s grain mill and how, after several decades of neglect and disrepair, he was able to bring new life into that old milling equipment.  I ask him some specifics about homestead level grain production and he describes how he does things on his farm to keep his family fed.  We discuss the decline of the community grain mill and he shares some exciting news of his plans to bring them back to life.  VISIT JUSTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfL5xkT20SehAuS6TSKIRrwVISIT MY RESOURCES PAGE:https://www.plansandprovisions.com/resources/SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#019 - As the homesteading movement gains momentum and more people are taking matters into their own hands regarding food and other resources, the demand for learning new skills grows as well.  While we are certainly blessed to live in a time with an abundance of digital and print resources, there is simply no replacement for hands on experience and networking opportunities that come with in-person learning.My guest today certainly understands that as she has worked tirelessly to develop what is quickly becoming one of the top homesteading gatherings in the nation.  After a long career in the print newspaper industry, Cheryl Franklin has started a new life as the organizer of the upcoming Ozarks Homesteading Expo which takes place on August 26th and 27th of this year.  In our talk, we get to hear her perspective of what it was like to get started as a young homesteader, fresh from the city and newly transplanted in SW Missouri.  We talk about the importance of community and the challenges of balancing a full time career, family responsibilities and a growing homestead.  She tells the story of how she found herself running a successful homesteading event and gives some details on what folks can expect who attend this year.  Check out Cheryl's site for more information on the upcoming Ozarks Homesteading Expo:https://ozarkshomesteading.com/Sign up for the Plans and Provisions Newsletter:http://plansandprovisions.comSupport the show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#018 - It's the first Friday of August and time for an update on what's going on around the hoemstead.  It's gardening season and we're learning a bunch of tough lessons that will pay off in the future.  A few successes with the livestock and some new problems we're dealing with as well.I make some announcements about the podcast as well and share some encouragement.Check out the website:https://www.plansandprovisions.com/SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#017-  I think that when many of us hear the words preparedness or prepper, we tend to think in terms of things we can buy like stockpiles of gear and supplies.  While having ample supplies in a crisis could certainly mean the difference between life and death in a serious catastrophe, having the right mindset just might be as, or more important.Today’s guest has taken it upon herself to teach the average person, particularly women and mothers, to take realistic and practical steps toward food security and preparedness in general.  Her 2018 book ‘A year without the grocery store’ is, in my opinion, the perfect guide for anyone in the early stages of working towards becoming more intentional and organized in managing their family’s food resources.  She teaches that preparedness is more than just a stockpile of supplies and gear, but also a mindset that should be absent of fear, doom and gloom.In our conversation, Karen shares how she found herself essentially preparing by accident and some of the ways she and her family have had to be flexible in order to maintain their food storage.  She shares some personal crises and disasters she and her family have been through and the lessons she learned from them.  She lays out some solid first steps for those wanting to get started in preparedness and shares some exciting new developments you won’t want to miss.Visit Karen's website and blog:https://www.areyoupreparedmama.comSUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#016 - It's time for July's farm update and this update is mostly about our adventures in the garden.  We're growing our first big garden and, so far, having success despite our lack of experience and the two main challenges that we're facing:  weeds and pests.We've also had to figure out treatments for some of our animals and the calves are finally on pasture.SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#015 - As I’ve continued my journey towards a more independent and resilient lifestyle, I’ve started to think outside of the box when it comes to providing food for my family.  While learning how to produce and store food in ways that reduce or eliminate dependency on conventional supply channels, I started to wonder whether foraging could play a role in my family’s food security.My guest today is an expert in primitive skills and foraging and, since the release of his book “Foraging the Ozarks” in 2020, many have been turning to him to learn how to safely and ethically utilize the abundance of wild plants around them.  His name is Bo Brown and he has been teaching survival skills for decades at his First Earth Wilderness School in Southern Missouri.  In our conversation, we discuss the nutritional superiority of wild foods over cultivated varieties and how, by eating garden weeds, we can instantly increase the productivity of our gardens.  We talk about which plants are best to start with for beginners and Bo shares some valuable resources for those looking to get started in foraging.  SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#014 - Summer is coming on strong here on the homestead and we've had some good things- and some bad things-happen here in the past month or so.  Join me for a quick rundown on the comings and goings of the homestead in the month of June!SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#013 - One of the things that I’ve found in the early stages of my homesteading journey is that this life is one of problems and solutions and, at least so far, often more time is spent on planning and thinking than actually doing.  As our first spring on our new property is fully underway, we’re realizing that there is a delicate balance between proper planning and just getting started.  My guest today is a man of action and his passion for permaculture and preparedness has been leading many toward living a more independent and resilient life.  His name is Billy Bond and through his YouTube channel “PermaPastures Farm” he is relating his infectious energy and convictions to many of us who are forging our own way towards building systems of abundance and health for our families.  We get to know a bit about what drove him to become so passionate about permaculture and preparedness, as well as what drove his family to invest deeply in learning from some of the greats in the permaculture and regenerative agriculture space.  Billy takes a stab at defining what permaculture is, and while he swears that definition is elusive, I think he did a really good job of breaking it down for the average person.  We talk about a lot of things and I think the best thing for me to say is that you’re in for a real treat.    SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#012 - There have been some exciting developments around the homestead since the last update and there's now way more work to do!  We've also had a couple of scares with the livestock and I'll talk about that and how we addressed those concerns.  SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#011 - If you've ever wondered how to improve the cost, supply and quality of your daily coffee needs then you have to consider roasting coffee at home.  It is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to become more independent and resilient in one of the more decidedly American luxuries that many of us take for granted.In this episode, I take a few minutes and talk about some of the basics of roasting your own coffee at home and give some pointers on process and finding a good supply of green beans.SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#010 - In this episode, I share some of the books that I've read this year as well as one that was recently published by one of my podcast guests.  I love to read and thought it would be fun to share with you a few books that I've enjoyed so far this year.What are you reading?  Email me at jason@plansandprovisions.com or catch me on instagram @plansandprovisions.SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#009 - In my family’s quest for food security and health we have often considered raising meat rabbits as a solution to the problems of meat price, quality and availability.  Since moving onto our new homestead late last year, we have begun the process of starting our own rabbity by building infrastructure and acquiring our own starter breeding stock.While  researching how to get started on the right foot, we found Bobby Jimenez through his youtube channel called “The Rabbitry Center”.  His videos have helped steer us in the right direction and have been a valuable resource for us during the early stages of our meat rabbit journey.  In our discussion, we learn about the many benefits of raising meat rabbits and he gets into some of the more challenging aspects of running a rabbitry.  We talk about some considerations for breeding and management as well as go in depth about the possibilities of raising rabbits for meat in a world where bagged feed may not always be available. SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#008 - In this solo show I take a few minutes to share some of the exciting developments that have taken place around the homestead.  Spring has sprung and we have some new projects that are getting started as well as some new residents living in our barn.SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#007 - As food prices are soaring and the basic availability of everyday items is anything but guaranteed, we also face a deeply concerning trend as it relates to our nations farming population.  Put quite simply, our farmers are getting old with approximately 2/3 of the 3.4 million American farmers within a decade of retirement age.  Couple that with the seemingly broken food supply chain and the serious concerns over the future availability of fertilizers, we have to ask the question of who is going to feed the people of this country in the future.My guest today has found herself on the front lines of the fight to, not only produce sustainable food for her community, but to educate and inspire an energetic new generation of young farmers.  Her name is Grace, but she is better known online as “The Shepherdess” through her YouTube channel by the same name, where she shares her new journey as a sheep farmer using regenerative agricultural practices.  In our conversation, we get to hear about her interesting transition from a city girl working as a digital marketer in the fashion industry to a life of a young sheep farmer and content creator.  We talk about the inherent flaws of the centralized food system that connects farmers to the average consumer, as well as some of the better options those consumers have available.  We also learn about why sheep are a compelling option for those interested in starting out in regenerative agriculture and raising grass fed meat. CHECK OUT THE SHEPHERDESS' WEBSITE:http://harmonyfarms.blogCHECK OUT THE SHEPHERDESS' YOUTUBE CHANNEL:https://www.youtube.com/c/theShepherdessSUPPORT THE SHOW:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#006 - In this solo show I take a few minutes and talk about my family's experiences in homeschooling. I explain some of the reasons why we have chosen to homeschool and some of the great things that have come of that decision. I also describe some of the challenges we have faced in our decision to educate at home and make some recommendations for those who may be just getting started.For those looking for a solution to getting their little ones reading, I HIGHLY recommend Hooked on Phonics.  Click below to get started (I will receive a small commission at no cost to you):https://www.plansandprovisions.com/phonicsSUPPORT THE SHOW:https://buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#005 - The homesteading movement in America is growing at a rapid pace as many people look to find meaning and security by leaving behind city life in favor of a slower and more self sufficient lifestyle.  Thankfully, there are people who have been living that lifestyle since before homesteading was a buzzword and are willing to share their wisdom and experience with those of us just getting started.  My guest today is Danny King and he is one of those who have lived the life and are generous with their advice, wisdom and experience.  Through their Youtube channel “Deep South Homestead”, Danny and his wife Wanda share their day to day life: the challenges they face and the practices they depend on; as well as their take on current events and how they relate to all of us.In our conversation, we learn about the world that Danny grew up in and how he got started in homesteading and preparedness.  We talk about first steps for a new homesteader or gardener and dig deep (pun intended) into issues of herbicide use and it’s downstream effects on gardening practices and food safety.  Danny talks about some of the basic metrics of preparedness and food security as well as hints at some of the darker realities of the world we live in today.For the best source of healthy bulk foods and ingredients at Azure Standard click the link below:https://www.plansandprovisions.com/azureSUPPORT THE SHOW:https://buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#004 - In this solo show I take a few minutes and introduce you to the homestead and talk about some of the current and future projects we'll be taking on.  I get into our chicken program and how we've found an exciting compromise to our ideal practice of pasture raising our birds.  I get into the details of our new meat rabbit project and talk about what kind of animals we're planning on putting on our pasture this spring.  I also get into the subject of spring gardening and hint at some exciting plans we have for growing food and experimenting on the new homestead.SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#003 - Fermentation is all around us.  It is used to some degree in a surprising number of common, and not so common, items of food and beverage all around the world.  It is found in every culture and on every continent and, while it has served to nourish and sustain generations of different cultures around the globe, it is declining in popularity in proportion to the rise of commercialism and mass produced food.  My guest today has taken up the cause of advocating for and preserving the art of fermentation, all while bringing together a myriad of cultural practices to share with the world.  His name is Sandor Katz, also known as “Sandor Kraut”, he is a fermentation revivalist     and New York Times best selling author.  He has been called “the Johnny Appleseed of Fermentation” and has achieved a sort of rockstar status among the independent food movement.In our conversation, we discuss some of his experiences abroad as well as dive into some of the reasons that fermentation can be found in every culture around the world.  We get into the elusive nature of the origins of fermentation and the many ways it has evolved into what it is today.  We also discuss using the art of fermentation on the homestead as an augmentation to the more standard preservation practices such as canning, drying and freezing. If you'd like to purchase books written by Sandor Katz, click the link below to head over to Chelsea Green Publishing.  I am an affiliate of Chelsea Green and will receive a small commission at no cost to you.http://plansandprovisions.com/fermentationSUPPORT THE SHOW:https://buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#002 - I’m sure that most of you would agree that building and maintaining health and wellness should be at the forefront when it comes to living a more independent and resilient life.  Today, I’m joined by master herbalist Judson Carroll   He is the author of four books including one of his most recent: “Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People” which I read recently and can definitely recommend.  He was born and raised in the Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina and really seems to have found his calling as a gateway to many of the stories and traditions of Appalachian culture.  In our conversation he shares some of his practical knowledge for those interested in learning more about herbal medicine as well as some compelling reasons to consider herbs as a valuable component of your wellness plan.  He also shares some ideas about general personal wellness and nutrition and I hope you’ll  learn some things from our conversation.To source your own herbs and spices, click on the link below to visit Mountain Rose Herbs: (I receive a small commission at no cost to you)https://www.plansandprovisions.com/herbsFor other valuable resources that I personally use and recommend, head over to my resource page:https://www.plansandprovisions.com/resourcesSUPPORT THE SHOW:https://buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show

#001 - Globalization and the industrialization of pretty much everything has undoubtedly created many benefits that people across the world enjoy and take for granted.  Things like transportation, communication, entertainment and the internet are just a few of those benefits that are, without a doubt, a blessing.  However, as the industrialized economy continued to centralize more and more of the aspects of daily life, there have been disastrous effects on the culture of communities and the independence of the individual.  Many of us have become essentially culture-less as we have been conditioned over just a few generations to forget our past and accept as normal the insane world we find ourselves in today.This show is about working to restore and redefine our cultures and personal independence.   It’s about challenging conventional ways and looking for what is often the more simple, common sense approach which is often found in traditions of the past.  It’s about breaking with the status quo, going out on a limb and doing what most people around us think is crazy.  We’ll be talking about practical steps we can take to improve our situation and move the needle forward towards a more sustainable and meaningful life.  We’ll also be spending a lot of time on the mindset it takes and the courage needed to break with the norms and start taking our lives back.To learn more, head over to the website:https://www.plansandprovisions.com/SUPPORT THE SHOW:https://buymeacoffee.com/plansnprovSupport the show