The Homestead Education Podcast

Episode 178: How Preserving Food Builds Resilience and Cuts Costs During Crises with Jeremy & Stacy Hill of Gooseberry Bridge Farm

Preserving Food, Farming Wisdom, and Building Resilience with Jeremy and Stacy Hill.
 
Discover how Jeremy and Stacy Hill from Gooseberry Bridge Farm combine traditional farming, food preservation, and resilient homesteading to reconnect with nature and community. This conversation offers practical insights for anyone interested in food sovereignty, sustainable living, and farm business strategies.
 
Main topics include:
The evolution of a homestead into a full-time farm business
The mental and practical foundations for successful food preservation
Navigating the regulatory landscape of agro-tourism
The importance of seasonality and small batch preservation
Cultivating a resilient mindset for farm life and self-sufficiency
In this episode:
The story behind "The Preserver’s Garden" and food preservation as a catalyst
How their personal journey led them from hobby gardening to a thriving farm
The benefits and challenges of managing a 5,000 sq ft garden and multiple income streams
The role of seasonality in preserving food effectively year-round
How to start small with preservation projects like jam-making
The importance of understanding your "why" to sustain homesteading efforts
Insights into Missouri's friendly policies supporting farm-based tourism
Practical tips on growing what works and managing the farm’s seasonal rhythm
The cultural shift needed to value and pass down agricultural skills
Resources & Links:
The Preserver's Garden by Jeremy & Stacy Hill: https://amzn.to/4eCbd6y 
Gooseberry Bridge Farm: https://www.gooseberrybridge.com/ 
Missouri Grown program: https://missourigrownusa.com/ 
Connect with Jeremy & Stacy:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gooseberrybridgefarm/?__pwa=1 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gooseberrybridge 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gooseberrybridgefarm 
Connect with Kody Hanner:
Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/homestead_education
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation
GET YOUR FREE HOMESTEAD FAMILY READING LIST HERE: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/homestead-summer-reading-list/

Episode 177: Why Agriculture Education Should Be the Foundation of Everyone's Education

This episode dives into the crucial need to redefine agriculture education for today's society. I share my personal journey, insights into food systems, and why foundational knowledge about where our food comes from is more vital than ever—regardless of whether you’re a farmer or not.
The disconnect between conventional agriculture education and real-world needs
Why understanding food, soil, and farm systems is essential for everyone
How COVID, supply chain disruptions, and AI are shifting perspectives on local and small-scale farming
The historical evolution of agricultural education and its current shortcomings
Practical steps to incorporate meaningful agriculture lessons into homes and communities
The importance of fostering purpose, resilience, and responsibility in the next generation
The role of homeschooling, community involvement, and local sourcing in building a stable food future
Resources & Links:
Courses and curriculum for agricultural literacy: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/homesteadeducationcurriculum
Homesteading Summer Courses — 25% off mini courses with code SUMMER25: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/coupon-code/SUMMER25/sc-page/summer-on-the-homestead-kickoff-sale/
Homestead Family Reading List: https://thehomesteadeducation.myflodesk.com/homestead-reading-list
Connect with Kody Hanner:
Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/homestead_education 
Facebook: https://facebook.com/homesteadeducation 
Remember: agriculture is the foundation of civilization. Reimagine how we teach and connect with it to build resilient, purpose-driven generations. 

Episode 176: How Blacksmithing Can Be Your Next Purpose-Driven Career or Hobby With Athol Iron Works

Discover how blacksmithing is alive and evolving through the stories of Will Branson and David Walker from Fire Iron Forge. This episode explores the journey from childhood passions to building a thriving craft business, emphasizing the importance of niche markets, community, and continuous growth in the trade.
Watch the YouTube Episode Here: https://youtu.be/JJf-G0mLZCc
Main Topics:
The origins of blacksmithing passions and how childhood influences shape careers
Building a blacksmithing school and cultivating a community of diverse students
The importance of finding a niche in a dying art and marketing it effectively
The role of hands-on, experiential learning in developing confidence and purpose
How blacksmithing serves as a meaningful outlet for all ages and genders
Practical tips on starting blacksmithing at home and the realities of equipment costs
The significance of continuous learning and staying a "forever student"
Resources & Links:
Fire Iron Forge - https://fireironforge.com/
Athol Ironworks - https://atholironworks.com/ 
Abana - Artist Blacksmiths Association of North America - https://abana.org/ 
California Blacksmith Association - https://www.calsmith.org/ 
Connect with Athol Iron Works or Fire Iron Forge
Athol Iron Works Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AtholIronworks 
Athol Iron Works Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/atholironworks/
Fire Iron Forge Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fireironforge 
Fire Iron Forge Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fire_iron_forge/
Kody's Links
Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com
Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop
Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe
Follow Along
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
This episode underscores that blacksmithing is not just a craft, but a lifelong journey of growth, community, and purpose. Whether you're starting at home or seeking to turn your passion into a business, Will and David’s insights provide a compelling blueprint for success in the art of the forge. 

Episode 175: Mastering Family Preparedness | A Practical Guide from Rustic Homestead Living

In this episode, Alex and Ashley Johnson from Rustic Homestead Living share practical insights on how families can effectively prepare for emergencies—big or small. Whether you're stockpiling food or organizing your emergency plan, their advice makes preparedness accessible and actionable for everyone.
Key topics:
The evolution of homesteading into emergency preparedness education
How to customize 72-hour kits for individual family members and different environments
Rotating and using food storage to prevent waste and spoilage
The importance of a written preparedness plan and binder organization
How to incorporate long-term and short-term strategies, including food storage, medical supplies, and communication tools
Teaching skills to make the most of available ingredients and resources
Tips for storing supplies securely against pests and degradation
Community classes and in-person resources for hands-on learning
The mindset of continuous growth and learning in preparedness and homesteading
Resources & Links:
Rustic Homestead Living Website: https://rustichomesteadliving.com/
Preparedness Binder & Resources: https://rustichomesteadliving.com/store/books-resources/
Start Here: The 7-Day Homestead Preparedness Blueprint helps you build your foundation for self-sufficiency in one week https://rustichomesteadliving.com/start-here/
Connect with Alex & Ashley:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rustichomesteadliving/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/rustichomesteadliving
Kody's Links
Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com
Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop
Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe
Follow Along
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
 

Episode 174: The Power of Rural America: Amanda Radke on Reclaiming the Food Narrative

In this episode, Amanda Radke shares her journey as a fifth-generation cattle rancher, passionate educator, and advocate for the real stories of American agriculture. She discusses how direct-to-consumer beef sales, land rights, and truthful storytelling are shaping the future of rural America, inspiring producers and consumers alike.
Main Insights:
Amanda’s background as a South Dakota rancher and author of children’s books about farming.
The significance of direct-to-consumer platforms like Bid on Beef in reconnecting rural producers with urban buyers.
How COVID-19 revealed vulnerabilities in global food supply chains and the opportunity for local, relationship-based food systems.
The monopolization of the beef supply chain by large packers and foreign ownership, and the need for stronger farmer advocacy.
The role of land rights and property preservation amid policies favoring foreign-backed projects such as carbon pipelines.
The importance of grassroots activism, local government engagement, and courageous advocacy in protecting American farmland.
How region-specific animal husbandry practices, like rotational grazing and grain finishing, reflect the diversity of U.S. agriculture.
Addressing misconceptions about antibiotics, environmental impact, and industry labels, emphasizing transparency and consumer education.
Amanda’s perspective on “keep growing” — prioritizing faith, family, and long-term sustainability over short-term gains.
Resources & Links:
Amanda Radke's Website: https://amandaradke.com/
The Heart of Rural America Podcast: https://apple.co/3BoFh0N
Bid on Beef: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-heart-of-rural-america/id1698761477
American Land and Legacy: https://americanlandandlegacy.org/
Connect with Amanda Radke:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandaradke
Kody's Links
Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com
Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop
Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe
Follow Along
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
 

Episode 173: Growing a Food Community: Insights from Susan Poizner on Fruit Tree Care and Community Orchards

In this episode, Susan Poizner shares her journey into urban orchards, emphasizing the importance of understanding and caring for fruit trees. Her insights are especially valuable for community groups, schools, and individuals committed to food resilience and ecological harmony.
Key Topics
The crucial minimums needed to keep fruit trees healthy and productive
How to select climate-appropriate fruit trees and the importance of native and disease-resistant cultivars
The role of community orchards in building sustainable food systems
Community-driven strategies for orchard maintenance, pest management, and soil health
Practical tips for planting, spacing, and protecting young trees
The emotional and ecological bonding with trees as living beings
How to integrate food growing into small spaces, urban environments, and large properties
The legacy aspect of perennial trees and their role in family and community traditions
The influence of rootstocks—dwarf vs. full-size and their implications for care
Strategies for pest and disease control using organic methods like dormant sprays
Susan Poizner’s Resources & Links
Susan Poizner’s Website
Growing Urban Orchards Book
Designing a Fruit Tree Garden
Fruit Tree Grafting Book
Organic Dormant Sprays
Orchard Nurseries & Resources
Connect with Susan Poizner
LinkedIn
Twitter
Podcast: Orchard Conversations
Kody Hanner’s Resources & Links
Homestead Education Curriculum:https://thehomesteadeducation.com
Shop Books & Resources:https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop
Join the Email List for Resources & Updates:https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe
Follow Along
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation
TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
Final thoughts:
This episode underscores that caring for fruit trees is not just about harvesting—it's about building relationships with nature, nurturing community, and fostering resilience for future generations. Whether you have a backyard or a large farm, adopting a thoughtful approach rooted in ecological mindfulness can transform your space into a thriving food forest.

How to Teach Kids Real-Life Learning | Homesteading, Trades, & Purpose-Driven Learning

Homesteading and education aren’t just about what you know or how much you can produce.They’re about the mindset, skills, and real-life experiences that shape how you live, work, and contribute to the world around you.
And the truth is, more families than ever are questioning traditional education… but many aren’t sure what to replace it with or how to confidently teach their kids real-world skills.
In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Daniel Salatin of Polyface Farm to have an honest, practical conversation about learning outside the classroom, building a life through agriculture, and raising kids who are capable, confident, and ready for real life.
From growing up on one of the most well-known regenerative farms to struggling in traditional academics, Daniel shares how hands-on learning, problem-solving, and purpose-driven work shaped his life and why those same principles matter now more than ever.
Together, they talk about what education actually needs to look like, how kids learn best, and why real-life responsibility may be the missing piece for so many families today.
This isn’t just a conversation about farming or homeschooling.It’s about raising a generation that knows how to think, work, and contribute.
If you care about:
Raising capable, confident kids
Teaching real-life skills through everyday experiences
Homeschooling with purpose (not pressure)
Preparing kids for the real world—not just tests
Building problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Creating a lifestyle rooted in responsibility and contribution
This episode will challenge how you think about education and remind you what actually matters.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Daniel’s upbringing on Polyface Farm and his homeschool journey
Why traditional education doesn’t work for every child
The importance of problem-solving over memorization
How real-life responsibility creates motivation to learn
Finding your life’s calling and building a purpose-driven career
Why agriculture and homesteading create natural learning environments
The transition into leadership at Polyface Farm
Inside the Polyface Stewardship Program and full farm immersion training
The value of mentorship, trades, and hands-on experience
How learning often happens faster when there’s a real reason behind it
🤝 Support Our Guest — Daniel Salatin
If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to learn more about Daniel and Polyface Farm.
🌱 Learn more on the Polyface Farm website🎓 Explore the Polyface Farm Stewardship Program (applications open each August)
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Polyfacefarm📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polyfacefarm/
 
Resources & Links
Homestead Education Curriculum:https://thehomesteadeducation.com
Shop Books & Resources:https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop
Join the Email List for Resources & Updates:https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe
Follow Along
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation
TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
🔥 Final Thought
Education doesn’t require perfect systems, perfect curriculum, or perfect timing.
It starts with a decision—to teach differently, to live intentionally, and to give your kids the skills they actually need.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about what they memorize…
It’s about who they become.

How to Build a Homestead from Scratch | Lifestyle, Gardening & Real-Life Skills

Homesteading isn’t just about land, animals, or how much you can produce. It’s about the mindset, lifestyle, and intentional choices behind how you live.
And the truth is, more people than ever are craving a slower, more self-sufficient life… but many feel like they don’t have enough land, time, or experience to even begin.
In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Mary Lewis — host of A Tiny Homestead Podcast & Grit and Graceland in the Heartland Podcast to have an honest, real-life conversation about what homesteading actually looks like day-to-day.
From starting a homestead later in life to navigating gardening challenges, empty nesting, and building a life rooted in purpose, Mary shares her journey of stepping away from “city living” and into a more intentional, self-sufficient lifestyle.
Together, they talk about the realities of gardening, raising food, learning new skills, and redefining what it means to “be a homesteader” — whether you have acres of land or just a small backyard.
This isn’t just a conversation about homesteading.It’s about learning to live differently with purpose, creativity, and a willingness to grow.
If you care about:
Starting a homestead later in life
Building a self-sufficient lifestyle without overwhelm
Growing food in any space (big or small)
Learning homesteading skills step-by-step
Balancing real life with homestead goals
Finding joy in simple, everyday living
This episode will remind you that homesteading isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Mary’s journey to starting a homestead at 50
Why homesteading is a mindset, not a measure of land or animals
The transition from city living to rural life
Real-life gardening challenges (weather, timing, and expectations)
How homesteading looks different in every season of life
The importance of starting small and building skills over time
Balancing homestead work without burnout or overwhelm
The role of community in modern homesteading
Why learning to cook is a foundational homesteading skill
Simple ways to begin growing and preparing your own food
🤝 Support Our Guest — Mary Lewis
If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to connect with Mary and follow along with her work.
🎙️ Podcasts: Grit and Grace in the Heartland | A Tiny Homestead
🌐 Website: Grit and Grace in the Heartland
📘 Facebook:Mary LewisGrit and Grace in the Heartland – Women in Agriculture
 
Resources & Links
Homestead Education Curriculum:https://thehomesteadeducation.com
Shop Books & Resources:https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop
Join the Email List for Resources & Updates:https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe
Follow Along
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation
TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
🔥 Final Thought
Homesteading doesn’t require perfect land, perfect timing, or perfect skills.
It starts with a decision — to grow, to learn, and to do what you can with what you have.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how much you produce…
It’s about the life you’re building.

How to Avoid Burnout in Agriculture | Farming, Mindset & Leadership

Success in agriculture isn’t just about working harder — it’s about learning how to manage the pressure, responsibilities, and mindset that come with the lifestyle.
And the truth is — burnout, overwhelm, and mental exhaustion are affecting more people in agriculture than ever before… but few are talking about how to navigate it well.
In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Kacee Bohle — founder of AgriMinds and host of the AgriMinds Podcast — to talk about mindset, burnout, boundaries, leadership, and balancing family life while building a career in agriculture.
From growing up on a fourth-generation farm to climbing the corporate ladder in agriculture, Kacee shares her personal journey through burnout, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and ultimately building a business that helps others in the ag industry thrive both personally and professionally.
Together, they discuss the challenges of balancing farm life, business ownership, marriage, motherhood, homeschooling, and the constant pressure many in agriculture feel to “do it all.”
This isn’t just a conversation about business.It’s about learning how to create a life that aligns with your values — without losing yourself in the process.
If you care about:
Preventing burnout while building your business or farm
Balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and agriculture
Setting healthy boundaries in work and family life
Leading yourself and others more effectively
Navigating mindset struggles in farming and entrepreneurship
This episode will encourage you to rethink what success truly looks like — and how mindset impacts every part of your life.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Kacee’s journey from family farming to corporate agriculture and entrepreneurship
Why burnout in agriculture often comes from doing the wrong work at the wrong time
How mindset impacts stress, overwhelm, and productivity
The importance of boundaries in work, family, and parenting
Leadership and communication within farm families and businesses
Balancing motherhood, homeschooling, and entrepreneurship
Why personal development matters in agriculture
🤝 Support Our Guest — Kacee BohleIf you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to connect with Kacee and learn more about AgriMinds.
🎙️ Podcast: AgriMinds Podcast
🌍 Website:
http://www.kaceebohle.com/agriminds
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agcoachkacee/
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaceebohle
Resources & Links
Homestead Education Curriculum:https://thehomesteadeducation.com
Shop Books & Resources:https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop
Join the Email List for Resources & Updates:https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe
Follow Along
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation
TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
🔥 Final Thought
Burnout doesn’t always come from doing too much — sometimes it comes from doing too much of the wrong thing at the wrong time.
Learning how to lead yourself well, set boundaries, and shift your mindset may be one of the most important skills for building a sustainable life in agriculture.

How to Understand What's Happening in Agriculture | Food Systems & Media

Agriculture isn’t just happening in the fields — it’s happening on the airwaves, in policy conversations, and in the everyday decisions that impact what ends up on our tables.
And the truth is — most people have no idea how much is happening behind the scenes… or where to find reliable information when it does.
In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Addison Stoddard — host of the All Things Ag Gal Podcast and farm director for the Kansas Farm and Ranch Radio Network — to talk about the role of agricultural broadcasting and why it still matters more than ever.
From early mornings on the radio to breaking down complex topics like fuel, fertilizer, and food supply chains — Addison shares what it really looks like to be the voice delivering ag news to farmers who rely on it daily.
From market updates and policy changes to the realities of misinformation on social media — this episode dives into how information is shared, who people trust, and why accurate communication in agriculture is critical.
This isn’t just about radio.It’s about understanding where your information comes from — and why it matters.
If you care about:
Understanding how agricultural news actually reaches farmers
The role of media and communication in food systems
Breaking down misinformation in agriculture
The connection between policy, markets, and your grocery bill
Real conversations about sustainability, production, and the future of farming
This episode will challenge how you think about agriculture — not just as a practice, but as a system of information, trust, and decision-making.
In This Episode, We Cover:
What agricultural broadcasting actually is and why it still matters
How farmers use daily radio reports to make real-time decisions
The role of trust and credibility in ag media
How misinformation spreads — and how to navigate it
Current challenges in agriculture, from fuel costs to fertilizer shortages
What sustainability looks like in real-world farming operations
Why communication is one of the most overlooked parts of agriculture
🤝 Support Our Guest — Addison Stoddard
If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to connect with Addison and follow her work in agricultural media.
🎙️ Podcast: All Things Ag Gal🌐 Listen Live: https://nwksradio.net
🌍 Website: https://allthingsaggal.com/
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581960825517
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allthingsaggal/
 
Resources & Links
Homestead Education Curriculum:https://thehomesteadeducation.com
Shop Books & Resources:https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop
Join the Email List for Resources & Updates:https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe
Follow Along
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation
TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation
🔥 Final Thought
Information is one of the most powerful tools we have in agriculture.
The more we understand where it comes from — and how to interpret it — the more equipped we are to make decisions that support our families, our food systems, and our future.