The Homestead Education Podcast
Learn how to homestead, homeschool, and live self-sufficiently with educator and animal scientist Kody Hanner. Real talk, real skills, and the common sense our culture’s been missing.
Episode 182: Agriculture, food policy, and county fair lessons from a summer on the homestead
Kody Hanner shares a solo episode that mixes personal life updates from a wildfire-filled summer with a practical rundown of major agriculture and food safety headlines. She also closes with a long reflection on county fairs, 4-H, and how local agricultural education shapes capable, community-minded kids. In this episode, Kody connects homestead life, livestock management, food policy, and youth ag education into one big picture of how agriculture touches daily life far beyond the farm. She also explains why she thinks local food systems matter more than ever when large-scale supply chains, regulations, and public health issues all collide.<...
Episode: 181 How to Teach Your Kids Home Economics | Real-Life Skills That Build Confident, Capable Adults
How do you teach home economics when most schools don't?
For many families, home economics has become a forgotten subject. But cooking, sewing, meal planning, budgeting, gardening, and creating with your hands are the very skills that build confidence, resilience, and independence.
In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Jessica Clark of The Lark Life to discuss why practical life skills deserve a place alongside traditional academics—and how families can begin teaching them today.
Jessica shares how teaching her children to cook, sew, quilt, and create has transformed th...
Episode 180: How Hands-On Experience Transforms Future Farmers and Ranchers with Trent Van Leuven
In a world increasingly driven by screens, automation, and artificial intelligence, hands-on learning has never been more important. In this episode, agricultural educator Trent Van Leuwen shares how experiential learning, field trips, student entrepreneurship, and real-world agricultural experiences are helping students develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and career readiness. Whether you're a homeschool parent, teacher, or agriculture advocate, this conversation offers practical ideas for bringing meaningful hands-on education to today's students.
Key Topics:
Trent's background growing up on a dairy farm and his journey into agricultural education Differences between urban/suburban and rural agricultural experiences The importance...Episode 179: Living Freely on the Fringes: Embracing Authenticity and Freedom in Homesteading & Homeschooling
Living Freely on the Fringes: Embracing Authenticity and Freedom in Homesteading & Homeschooling
In this episode, Kody Hanner shares her raw, honest journey of redefining success, identity, and freedom within the homestead and homeschool lifestyle. She explores the pressures of social media, the importance of authenticity, and how to stay true to ourselves without falling into societal traps or comparisons. This episode is a powerful reminder that true freedom comes from living in alignment with your values, beyond public approval or perfect appearances.
Key Topics:
The shift from chasing societal success to embracing p...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...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 less...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...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 co...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...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...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...
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...
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 gro...
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 b...
How to Turn Tree Sap into Syrup | Homesteading, Food Systems & Self-Sufficiency
Sugaring isn’t just for the Northeast anymore. And the truth is — there are opportunities for food, resources, and self-sufficiency sitting right in our own backyards… if we’re willing to look a little closer.
In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with David Knudson of Montana Maple Works to talk about the surprising world of tapping trees for syrup in the Western U.S. — and what it really takes to turn sap into something usable, valuable, and even profitable.
From tapping city trees to navigating regulations, building a business from scrat...
How Farmers Can Make Direct-to-Consumer Work | Agriculture, Marketing & Modern Farming
Food systems are shifting. Farming is shifting. And the reality is — making a living in agriculture today looks nothing like it used to.
In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Lexi Wright of the Farming on Purpose podcast for a real conversation about what it actually takes to make farming work in today’s economy — from direct-to-consumer sales to managing multiple income streams and navigating the challenges modern farmers are facing.
From the disconnect between consumers and their food to the growing pressure on farmers to become marketers, educators, and bu...
How We Can Do Better for Agriculture in 2026 | Food, Education & the Future
Food systems are shifting. Education is shifting. And in 2026, the question isn’t if things need to change — it’s how we do better moving forward.
In this Season 7 kickoff episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner takes a hard look at the current state of agriculture, the rise of AI and digital influence, and the growing disconnect between people and their food.
From the dilution of farming practices under trending labels to the increasing reliance on broken education systems, this episode breaks down what’s actually happening — and what families, educators, and communities can do abo...
Season 7 Trailer - How to make the changes we want to see for agriculture in 2026?
Food and agriculture have never been louder — and clarity has never been harder to find.
As we move into 2026, grocery prices are rising, agricultural education is being shaped by broken systems, and AI is changing how information spreads. So how do we actually do better?
Season 7 of The Homestead Education Podcast is focused on rebuilding agricultural education at a human scale — not to turn everyone into farmers, but to raise people who understand food, land, and responsibility.
If you care about food security, agriculture, or strengthening families and communities, this season is for you...
How to Build Executive Functioning on the Homestead
In this episode, I share an update on Ranger, our Great Pyrenees livestock guardian who is still missing, and how our family is moving forward while holding onto hope. I also talk about our plan to bring home a new working male dog, what we’re looking for in a ranch-ready name, and how we’re navigating the emotions of change while keeping the homestead running.
Then I dive into my annual New Year reflection, including my word-of-the-year approach (reemerge, redefine, and bringing it home), what’s shifting in our family and business, and why executive functioning matter...
What People Need to Know About Raising Working Dogs
In this episode, I’m talking about working dogs—and what happens when one goes missing. After a brief life update, I share the story of our livestock guardian dog, Ranger, and the events leading up to his disappearance. From late-night disturbances to injuries on multiple dogs, this episode explores the reality of relying on a guardian dog to protect a farm and the emotional weight of not knowing what happened.
I also address common misconceptions about working dogs, especially livestock guardian breeds like Great Pyrenees—how they’re raised, why they live differently than house pets, and why...
How to Prep Without the Tinfoil Hat: Practical Emergency Readiness with Lindy Bryant
In this episode, Kody sits down with Lindy Bryant of Northwoods of Idaho—Air Force veteran, disaster response specialist, and creator of the Grab and Go Binder and Survival in a Bottle kits.
They break down real-life preparedness for normal people: families, single parents, seniors, urban dwellers, and rural homesteaders who want to be ready for power outages, job loss, medical emergencies, and everyday “mini disasters” long before a comet hits the earth.
From emergency binders and car kits to bartering, community support, and skill-based prepping, this conversation will help you rethink preparedness as a practi...
How to Sell Farm-Raised Meat Online (and Actually Make a Profit)
In this episode, Kody chats with Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, about helping farmers sell meat directly to consumers in today’s market. Katie shares how she transitioned from teaching elementary school in rural Iowa to building an online farmers' market that connects producers with buyers nationwide. Together, they unpack the difference between custom-exempt and retail meat sales, how inspection laws affect shipping, and why clear pricing and education are key to building trust with customers. Katie also shares insights on simplifying online sales, using email marketing instead of relying on social media, and cr...
Are Americans Losing Food Freedom? How to Reclaim Control from the System
In this episode, Kody tackles one of the most complex and often misunderstood topics in America: the food stamp system and its impact on personal responsibility, nutrition, and self-sufficiency. She traces its origins from FDR’s 1939 program to today’s SNAP, uncovering how a system designed to feed the hungry gradually created a culture of dependency. Drawing from her own experience as a single mother who once relied on food assistance, Kody offers a compassionate yet challenging perspective on how modern policies, education gaps, and processed food industries have eroded our connection to real food and the skills to prov...
From Farm to Neighbor: Strengthening Local Food Systems with Steader
In this episode, Kody sits down with Greg and Kristen Leininger, founders of Steader, to share how their own homesteading challenges sparked the idea for a faith-led, community-driven app built to reconnect local food systems. They open up about turning that vision into a working platform that helps neighbors buy, sell, and trade. From their family’s journey toward a simpler, purpose-filled life to their mission of helping others live closer to God’s design for food, land, and fellowship, Greg and Kristen show how technology can actually bring homesteaders back together—one trade, seed, or story at a time.<...
When Family Stories Become A Mission: The Making Of The Homestead Kids With Brian Combs
In this episode, Kody sits down with author Brian Combs of The Homestead Kids to share how a dad’s bedtime stories, written to help his newly adopted daughters navigate a big move, grew into a faith-led adventure series that’s turning reluctant readers into eager book finishers. Brian opens up about weaving Scripture naturally into wholesome homestead tales, why he designed the books with full-color chapter illustrations, 14-point type, and a dyslexia-friendly edition, and the reader feedback that keeps him writing.
Episode Links
Website: https://thehomesteadkidsbooks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prof...
The Truth About Tallow: Real Benefits of Grass-Fed Skincare with Jennifer Wheeler
In this episode, Kody sits down with Jennifer Wheeler, co-founder of Grass Fed Skin, to share the inspiring story of how she and her husband, Eric, followed God’s calling to leave their established healthcare careers and build a family-run, faith-led skincare business. Jennifer opens up about the moment she felt led to start something new, the early days of crafting tallow balm at home, and how their simple, natural product has transformed lives by helping people heal their skin and reduce toxins in their homes.
Episode Links
Use code "WelcomeGFS" at checkout to get 10% of...
How to Build Community in Rural Life: Real Connections for Modern Homesteaders
In this episode, Kody Hanner opens up about one of the most important (and overlooked) parts of homesteading life — building real, lasting community in rural areas. From her own experiences moving before COVID to discovering how neighbors rallied in times of crisis, Kody dives deep into the why and how behind connection, support, and mental wellness on the homestead.
Whether you’re new to country life, raising your kids off-grid, or transitioning from city living, this episode offers inspiration and tangible ways to find your people — in person, not just online.
Episode Links
Ladies...
From Field to Front Door: How Agriculture Touches Every Life
In this episode, Kody shares what’s been happening on her homestead and in her business — from breeding season and beef prices to the big leap into running a full in-house print shop. She opens up about the real-life challenges and triumphs of raising livestock, growing a business, and raising a family — all while staying rooted in her mission to reshape agricultural education for the next generation.
Kody also reflects on why “Agriculture Is Everywhere” — how it impacts every aspect of our daily lives, why kids need hands-on life skills now more than ever, and her growing vision to br...
Destroyed by Design with Cheryl Daley from The Homeschool How To Podcast
In this episode, I’m joined by Cheryl Daley—homeschooling mom, speaker, author and host of The Homeschool How To Podcast. Cheryl is passionate about helping parents recognize how culture and education are shaping their children, often by design, and equipping families to stand firm in their faith.
With years of homeschooling experience and a heart for encouraging other parents, Cheryl shares how families can guard their children’s hearts and minds, strengthen their faith foundation, and raise resilient kids in today’s world. We explore how cultural influences affect the next generation, why intentional parenting matters, and prac...
Making Faith Tangible: Family Discipleship That Works in Real Life with Katie J Trent
In this episode, I’m joined by Katie J Trent—bestselling author of Dishing Up Devotions, Recipes for a Sweet Child, and A Merry and Bright Adventure, and founder of the Family Faith-Building Academy & Community. Katie’s mission is simple yet powerful: make discipleship easier—and deliciously fun—for busy homeschooling families.
With over 15 years of experience in counseling, ministry, and church planting, Katie shares how hands-on family discipleship can weave biblical character traits into everyday life. We explore how to define your family’s faith background, set intentional goals for what you want to teach your kids, and mu...
Modern Pioneers in the Kitchen with Mary Bryant Shrader
In this episode, I’m joined by Mary Bryant Shrader—author of The Modern Pioneer Cookbook and The Modern Pioneer Pantry, and the host of Mary’s Nest on YouTube, where she shares over 700 videos on nourishing, traditional cooking from scratch.
Mary opens up about her journey from homeschooling mom to a trusted voice in traditional food. Her books aren’t just cookbooks—they’re hands-on guides for anyone ready to make simple, wholesome meals at home. We discuss the free K–12 cooking curriculum she created, the value of real-life skills such as rendering lard, making broth, and baking from...
Homeschooling and Entrepreneurship: Creating a Life That Works with Amanda Nigg
In this episode, I am joined by Amanda Nigg—better known as Farm Fit Momma—a homeschooling mom and entrepreneur who built a business that fits her life and family, not the other way around. Amanda shares her real-life journey of growing a purpose-driven brand while raising kids, managing homeschooling, and staying rooted in faith.
From early-morning bookkeeping to balancing client work during naptime, Amanda opens up about the flexibility, discipline, and intentional planning it takes to run a successful business from home.
If you're a homeschooling parent, work-from-home mom, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is p...
Flying into the Future of Farming: Drones, Sustainability, and Homeschooling with Alex McRae
In this episode, I sit down with Alex McRae, founder of Alair Ag Drones and co-founder of Nature Shield Pest & Lawn, to explore how drone technology is revolutionizing modern agriculture. Raised in rural Idaho, Alex blends his love for farming and aviation to support sustainable, healthy land practices. From crop dusting with drones to navigating FAA certifications, he shares how innovation is helping small farms thrive.
But that’s not all, Alex also discusses his family’s homeschooling journey, how real-world experiences shape their education, and the value of bringing entrepreneurship to the kitchen table.
Sponso...
Preserving Childhood, Protecting Faith: A New Path in Education
In this episode, I welcome Dennita and Mimi from The One-Room Red Schoolhouse in Dinwiddie County, Virginia. This unique, faith-based one-room schoolhouse blends traditional academics with hands-on homesteading and entrepreneurial education. Tune in as they discuss their mission, how they structure their days, and why practical, nature-based learning is essential in today’s world.
Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today!
Episode Links
Website- https://redschoolhousenetwork.com/
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/the_one_room_red_schoolhouse/
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/TheRedBarnFarmVA
Ko...
Bringing Pacific Northwest History to Homeschool Life with Tiffany Michaels
In this episode, I talk with Tiffany Michaels of Sparrow Homeschool about using real-world experiences to teach history, geography, and faith. With over 15 years of homeschooling experience and a background in social work, Tiffany brings a thoughtful and hands-on approach to education.
She shares how travel through the Pacific Northwest shaped her curriculum, inspired connections to Indigenous history, and supported a Christian worldview. From field trips and artwork to tough conversations and humor, Tiffany shows how to make homeschool history meaningful and memorable.
Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today!
Homesteading on a Budget: Practical Tips to Grow Self-Sufficiency with Less Money
In this episode, I’m opening up with a little encouragement and honesty—because homesteading doesn’t have to be picture-perfect to be meaningful. I’m talking about redefining what homesteading looks like when money’s tight, and how purpose-driven hustle can still lead to big wins.
I share real, practical tips on cutting costs through cooking from scratch, bartering and trading, offering labor in exchange for goods or knowledge, and sourcing what you need for free or cheap. It’s all about building self-sufficiency and community, on your terms.
Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Villa...
How to Turn Your Homestead Into a Business with Stacey Carpenter of Hop’n Ridge Ranch
In this episode, we’re joined by Stacey Carpenter of Hop’n Ridge Ranch — a dedicated homesteader, entrepreneur, and educator who’s building a thriving life rooted in purpose and practicality. Stacey shares her journey of starting a homestead from the ground up and how she’s turned her passion into a full-fledged business and educational platform.
We talk about the realities of balancing family, farming, and finances — from raising livestock with intention to teaching others through hands-on experiences. Stacey opens up about the learning curves, the wins, and the mission behind Hop’n Ridge Ranch.
Whether you’...
How to Go From Growing Your Farm to Being a Thriving Farmer with Michael Kilpatrick
In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Kilpatrick of Farm on Central, a seasoned farmer, educator, and advocate for sustainable small-scale agriculture. Michael shares valuable insights into the world of urban farming, how to thrive within city limits, and why smart marketing is key to farm success.
We dig into the real struggles small farmers face — from navigating confusing regulations to staying afloat financially — and Michael offers practical, experience-backed advice on how to diversify your income streams to build resilience on your homestead or farm.
Whether you’re a backyard grower, market gardener, or dreaming...
Tradition Meets Today: Farming, Food and the Montana Homesteaders Festival with Rose Campos
In this episode, we explore the return to traditional skills like chicken processing, pig butchering, and local food production. We talk about the legacy of 5th generation farming, the role of midwives in rural communities, and the growing desire for self-reliance. Plus, get a sneak peek at the upcoming Montana Homesteaders Festival in Plains, MT—packed with workshops, demos, and community connection.
Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today!
Episode Links
Find out more about the Montana Homesteaders Festival in Plains, MT on June 20th-21st- https://www.montanahomesteadersfestival.co...
Keep Soil Depletion From Affecting the Quality of Your Food with Gregg Forster
Have you ever considered how the food you eat gets its nutrients? Well, it is all from the soil. This means if your soil is deficient or contaminated, so is your food.
Gregg Forster from Wisconsin Mineral Solutions shares how to balance your soil with some simple changes and great products. Tune in for insightful information on soil science and responsible land management.
Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today!
Episode Links
Find Gregg Forster and suggested downloads: https://www.wisconsinmineralsolutions.com/
Albrect Papers on...
