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

I’m sharing a quiet end-of-year check-in, reflecting on what worked (and what didn’t) in the past year, and talking through what I’m dreaming up for the year ahead. From reimagining community and challenges to launching a tiny local farm stand, this episode is all about planning gently—without pressure or overwhelm. Resources & Links Mentioned: Join the Homestead Challenge Private Facebook Group to vote on challenge names and join the conversation Sign up for emails at thehomesteadchallenge.com to stay in the loop Farm Stand Planner (coming soon to Etsy) Follow along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes updates

Seeing people seed starting in December can make it feel like you’re already behind — especially if you live in a colder growing zone. In this episode, we’re talking about what’s actually worth planning for the garden this time of year, what can wait, and how to figure out your real planting timeline based on where you live (not what the internet is doing). If you’re a new or intermediate gardener — or just need a gentle reminder to slow down — this episode will help you plan with confidence instead of stress.   In This Episode, We Talk About: Why December gardening content can feel confusing The difference between planning season and planting season Why seed starting in December isn’t necessary for most cold climates How to find your exact garden zone and last frost date The seed-starting calculator I personally use every year What is worth doing for your garden in December How I batch seed-starting dates to make spring easier Reflecting on last year’s garden successes and flops Choosing garden priorities that actually fit your life Why rest is an important part of the growing season Helpful Garden Planning Links Mentioned: Find Your Last Frost Date Use your ZIP code to find your exact last frost date: https://www.almanac.com/gardening/frostdates   Seed Starting Date Calculator (My Favorite) This is the most robust and easiest-to-use calculator I’ve found: https://www.johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/seed-planting-schedule-calculator.html     Garden Planner + Seed Organizing Binder Inserts If you like having everything organized in one place, I have both available in my Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/HomesteadChallenge Join the Community: Come share your garden plans (or seed-starting photos!) inside our free Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity    

In this episode, we’re walking through a simple Friday Reset designed specifically for busy December weekends. With holiday activities filling up our schedules, we’re focusing on quick, doable steps that help us lower stress, clear a little space in our homes, and set ourselves up to actually enjoy the magic instead of rushing through it. We talk about choosing our non-negotiables, doing a fast holiday tidy, prepping food for the weekend, setting up cozy moments like a hot cocoa station, and reconnecting with homestead rhythms—whether that’s grabbing a few herbs from the garden, foraging evergreens, checking the pantry, or doing a quick emergency prep check. A little bit of intention on Friday can shift the entire tone of the weekend, helping us feel calmer, more present, and ready to savor the parts of December that matter most. Links Mentioned: Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com Instagram: @brittanylgibson

Homemade gifts can be thoughtful and practical — if people actually know how to use them. In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite high-compliance DIY gifts for non-crunchy friends and family, so your handmade presents don’t end up forgotten in the back of a cabinet. We talk about why most homemade gifts fail (lack of familiarity, unclear instructions, or feeling too “crunchy”) and how to fix that by making your gifts familiar, foolproof, and easy to use in real life. These ideas are perfect for last-minute holiday gifts or any time you want to give something personal without pressure. 🎁 High-Compliance DIY Gift Ideas Covered: Herb salts (with easy everyday uses) Homemade vanilla extract (with a local twist) One-and-done dip mixes Jam with cream cheese dip instructions Loose leaf tea paired with a proper tea strainer DIY herbal bug spray (perfect for families and warm climates) Shower steamers for people who don’t take baths If you’re trying to move away from consumerism without giving gifts that feel “weird” or unused, this episode will help you confidently gift homemade items that people genuinely love. 🔗 Helpful Links: DIY Herbal Bug Spray: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/diy-herbal-bug-spray/ Herb Salt Recipes: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/rosemary-salt/ The Homestead Challenge Blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com 💛 Join the Community: Share photos of your homemade gifts and connect with other low-pressure homesteaders in our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity  

Five years into my homesteading journey, I’m looking back at what actually worked, what caused burnout, and what I truly wish I had known as a beginner. In this episode, I’m walking you through the exact roadmap I would follow if I were starting completely over today — with less pressure, fewer gadgets, and a whole lot more joy. This is a gentle, realistic look at modern homesteading for real life — especially if you’re in the city, short on space, time, or energy. In this episode, we cover: Why joy should always be your starting point How trying to learn everything at once leads to burnout Choosing 1–2 skills at a time to focus on Building skills before buying tools and equipment Learning preservation before growing everything yourself Why consistency beats perfection every time How social media comparison derails beginners Homesteading in small spaces without waiting for “someday” Why the long game creates real sustainability 🌿 Join the Homestead Challenge Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity 🏡 Visit the blog: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

It’s officially December, and we’re starting our year-end reflection a little early around here. In this episode of The Homestead Challenge Podcast, we talk honestly about what actually worked on our city homestead this year—and what completely flopped. From simplifying garden projects and freezing tomatoes to sourdough struggles, slow home projects, and a few disappointing garden losses, this is a real-life look at homesteading without the highlight reel. If you’ve had a year with both wins and messy moments, you’re not alone—and this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why choosing only one big garden project changed everything How freezing tomatoes instead of canning immediately reduced burnout A DIY herbal bug spray win that actually worked Leaning into convenience appliances like the crockpot, bread machine & air fryer How meal planning around milk & meat delivery simplified grocery shopping The power of habit stacking (laundry + breakfast) An incredible herb harvest that’s still producing in December Why my sourdough starter died twice Projects that took way longer than expected (hello, brick patio) Garden disappointments: no pumpkins, no zucchini, small garlic Why every garden has failures—and that’s normal This episode is all about realistic homesteading, adjusting expectations, and giving yourself permission to grow slowly and imperfectly. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode here: [Insert podcast link] 🌿 Find recipes, resources & more at: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com 🐝 DIY Bug Spray Recipe Mentioned: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/diy-herbal-bug-spray/   💛 Let’s connect: Instagram: @brittanylgibson Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity   What worked for you this year—and what didn’t?

Winter is supposed to be the season where everything finally slows down… but for many of us, it quickly becomes another round of pressure to plan next year’s garden, stock the pantry, bake everything from scratch, and add even more to our already full plates. In this episode, I’m sharing the three homesteading tasks I’m not doing this winter so I can actually rest—and the two cozy, meaningful projects I am embracing to stay connected to my homestead in a way that fits my real life. We’re talking about: Why I’m not starting every seed in January How I’m resisting the urge to buy another pantry shelf’s worth of groceries The kitchen gadgets I’m saying no to (even on Black Friday!) The herbal products I’m creating with what I dried over the summer Why winter preserving—like dealing with those freezer tomatoes—actually feels easier If you’ve felt the pressure to “do all the things” in the winter homestead season, this episode will give you permission to simplify, slow down, and choose what truly matters in your current season of life. Related Episodes Ep 159. Pantry Restock The Smart Way: How to Refill without Overwhelm or Overspending Ep 5: Homestead Confessions: Expensive Kitchen Gadgets I Regret Buying (Don’t waste your money!)

If you’ve ever felt like herbalism requires a huge apothecary or a ton of expensive ingredients, this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air. Today, we’re talking about the everyday pantry staples you probably already have on hand that double as powerful herbal wellness tools — perfect for cold and flu season and practical homesteading on a budget. In this episode, I’m walking through eight simple pantry ingredients that support immunity, digestion, inflammation, stress relief, and overall wellness: ginger, garlic, cinnamon, honey, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, chamomile, and lemon. These are the no-pressure, real-life remedies that modern homesteaders can use daily without buying anything fancy or overwhelming.   Daily Wellness Shot: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/wellness-shot/ Garlic Mullein Ear Oil: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/garlic-mullein-herbal-oil/   Subscribe on YouTube The Homestead Challenge podcast is officially expanding! Search “The Homestead Challenge” on YouTube or click below and hit subscribe so you’ll know when new episodes drop. https://www.youtube.com/@thehomesteadchallenge  

In today’s episode, we’re talking about rethinking rest during the holiday season and why traditional “relaxation” doesn’t always make us feel restored. If you’re overwhelmed by holiday expectations, juggling motherhood, managing a busy home, or trying to keep up with homesteading tasks while feeling exhausted, this conversation is for you. After weeks of dealing with a lingering sinus infection, I realized that true rest isn’t always about slowing down, sitting on the couch, or doing nothing. Instead, I discovered that my body and nervous system felt more rested when I prioritized connection, movement, simple accomplishments, and intentional comfort rituals—all things that helped reduce stress more than “relaxing” ever did. Inside this episode, we explore: Why holiday overwhelm hits so hard (and why rest feels impossible) The unexpected thing that finally helped my nervous system reset How a simple girls’ night helped my body start to heal Why sitting still can sometimes increase anxiety and mental load How to find rest through connection (girls’ nights, date nights, family time) How to feel restored through accomplishment and finishing lingering tasks What “rest through movement” looks like in real life Simple sensory comfort ideas to bring peace back into your home How stress impacts your immune system and overall homestead routine Practical ways to feel grounded, calm, and prepared going into the holiday season Whether you’re navigating motherhood, trying to stay consistent with homesteading routines, or just craving a calmer December, you’ll learn how to identify your personal rest style so you can support your mental health, reduce stress, and create a holiday season that actually feels good.

In this episode, we’re talking about what you can still forage in November—even if there’s snow on the ground. I share six easy-to-identify wild foods and herbs like pine needles, rose hips, late-season mushrooms, acorns, crab apples, and black walnuts that can stretch your grocery or medicine budget. Plus, I chat about my failed attempt at extreme couponing and why foraging feels like a much more peaceful (and practical) way to get “free” things from nature this time of year.     Evergreen Recipes https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/evergreen-bath-salts/ https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/simple-winter-evergreen-simmer-pot-recipe/ https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/cedar-face-toner/

In this episode, we’re talking about herbal compliance — the simple truth that herbs only work if you actually take them. After being sick all week and realizing she barely used her herbs, Brittany shares five super practical ways to make herbal remedies easier and more convenient to use when you’re not feeling your best. From pre-filling tincture shots to creating a “sick day” herbal basket, this episode is all about setting yourself up for success before cold and flu season hits.   Cold and Flu Tea Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-tea-for-cold-and-flu/  

In this episode, we’re talking about how to restock your pantry intentionally after the Pantry Challenge so you can avoid waste, overspending, and overwhelm. Brittany shares practical tips for creating a core pantry list that actually fits your family’s needs, restocking slowly on a budget, and organizing for function over perfection. It’s all about building a pantry that supports real life—not one that looks Pinterest-perfect.

In this episode, we’re challenging ourselves to free up $500 before Christmas by shopping our pantries instead of the grocery store. We talk about how to take inventory, build meal plans using what we already have, and make it fun with a visual savings tracker. It’s all about using our resources wisely, wasting less, and creating a little extra breathing room before the holidays.   https://thehomesteadchallenge.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity

Ever wonder how other homesteaders fit it all in? This week, I’m taking you behind the scenes with an honest, hour-by-hour walkthrough of my real daily schedule — chaos, coffee, and all. In this episode, I’m sharing: 🌿 What my realistic “homestead day” looks like as a stay-at-home mom and city homesteader 🌿 How I use time-blocking (not rigid minute-by-minute planning) to stay grounded 🌿 My honest struggle with comparison and contentment 🌿 How I’ve built homesteading into daily life one small skill at a time   https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

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

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

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

🌿 Mentioned in this episode: Common root causes of headaches and how to spot them How to think through OTC pain relievers vs. anti-inflammatories Our go-to herbal tea blend for headaches Tincture ideas you can adapt to your own needs https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/the-best-herbal-tea-blend-for-headaches/  

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

If you’re anything like us, you probably love cozying up your home for fall—but maybe this year the budget feels a little tighter. Instead of going all out on store-bought décor, we’ve been leaning into using what we already have on hand, what’s growing in our garden, and even what we can forage. It’s a way to keep things festive without overspending, and the best part? Much of our décor can later be enjoyed as food, tea, or long-lasting keepsakes. In this episode, we chat about: 🌿 Herbs that double as décor while drying—like sage, rosemary, thyme, oregano, chamomile, and feverfew—and how they can be used later in the kitchen or for tea 🎃 How to choose, cure, and store pumpkins, squash, and gourds so they last well past the season 💡 Creative (and frugal) ways to make a little décor go a long way, including swapping out florals for dried arrangements and refreshing spaces with seasonal touches 🍂 Why asters might be a better choice than mums for long-lasting fall color year after year We want to inspire you to create instead of consume this season—using what you already have, what you can grow, and what you can forage to make your home feel festive and abundant. ✨ Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Join our Facebook community to share your own natural fall décor ideas Let’s make this fall beautiful, budget-friendly, and just a little bit “good enough to eat.”