Simple Farmhouse Life

Modern nutrition advice often makes gut health feel complicated and discouraging. In this conversation, Heather shares a simple, ancestral approach to digestion that brings the focus back to whole foods, sustainable kitchen rhythms, and listening to the body’s cues. We talk through why the environment we cook in matters, how modern food processing has disrupted digestion, and why adding nourishing, traditionally prepared foods can be more effective than cutting everything out. This episode offers a realistic perspective on healing the gut in a way that supports the whole family and fits your real life! In this episode, we cover: - Heather’s approach to healing chronic digestive issues through ancestral eating and kitchen-centered rhythms - Why the kitchen environment (lighting, clutter, etc.) plays a role in digestion more than we realize - Shifting our mindset from cutting foods out to intentionally adding nourishing, traditional foods back in - A simple ancestral filter for choosing foods without getting overwhelmed by competing nutrition noise - Gentle first steps for gut healing using soups, cooked foods, and simple meals - The most common gut symptoms women experience and how digestion affects hormones and nutrients - Why bloating happens, including microbiome imbalance and poor food breakdown - Thoughts on gluten pauses, sourdough, and traditionally prepared grains - When restrictive protocols like GAPS or carnivore  may be useful and when they’re not necessary - Why animal-based protein is often easier to digest than plant-based sources, especially during gut healing - Observing food rhythms that support digestion while honoring different seasons of life– postpartum, pregnancy, breastfeeding - The difference between meat stock and bone broth and when each is most supportive View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Check out Heather’s Workshop: Meat Stock & Soup Making for Deep Digestive Healing Sign up for Heather’s free guide: 5 Morning Rituals for Gut Health & Healing Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Heather Woodruff | Website | Instagram | Facebook Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

If you’ve been trying to eat well but feel stuck sorting through conflicting nutrition advice, this episode is for you.  In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Cate Shanahan for a practical conversation about why modern nutrition feels so confusing and how traditional diets offer a simpler framework for long-term health.  We talk through how seed oils quietly replaced more nourishing fats in the modern food supply, why they play such a big role in how processed foods impact our health, and how simple fat swaps can make a real difference without changing everything you eat.  If you’re looking for clarity, common sense, and realistic steps you can apply in your everyday life, I think you’ll really enjoy this conversation! In this episode, we cover: - Why so many people feel overwhelmed and confused by modern nutrition advice and how looking to traditional diets helps cut through the noise - Dr. Cate’s background in genetics and family medicine and how one generation’s food choices can shape the next - The four pillars found across traditional cultures that support long-term health (fresh foods, ferments and sprouting, bone broth, and organ meats) - How modern convenience foods quietly replaced nutrient-dense fats with industrial seed oils - Why seed oils are the true driver behind why junk food makes people feel and look unwell - A breakdown of the “Hateful Eight” seed oils to watch for when reading ingredient labels - The difference between toxic seed oils and neutral refined oils and why not all refined fats are equal - How to identify truly healthy fats by taste, labeling, and how they’re processed - Why simply swapping fats (without changing the rest of the meal) can have a major impact on health - The hidden places seed oils show up (even in organic and “healthy” grocery items) - A realistic, low-stress approach to reducing seed oils without trying to overhaul everything overnight - Why consumer demand is finally shifting the food industry toward better fat choices and what that means for home cooks View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Pick up your copies of Dr. Cate’s books:  Deep Nutrition: Why Your Genes Need Traditional Food Dark Calories: How Vegetable Oils Destroy Our Health and How We Can Get It Back Receive Dr. Cate’s email newsletter by signing up here Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Dr. Cate Shanahan | Website | Instagram | Facebook | X Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

Roadside farm stands are popping up everywhere, and for good reason!  In this conversation, I’m joined by Rayla to explore why this simple way of selling homemade food has gained so much traction and how it’s becoming a valuable income stream and community touchpoint for so many families.  We talk through what it really looks like to start a farm stand from scratch, the time and profitability behind it, and why simplicity matters more than scale.  From zoning and logistics to packaging, marketing, and creating an experience people want to return to, this episode offers a realistic look at whether a farm stand could be a good fit for your season and goals! In this episode, we cover: - Why roadside farm stands are popping up everywhere and what’s driving the renewed interest - What to consider before starting a farm stand, including zoning, cottage food laws, and location - Simple ways to start small with minimal infrastructure and upgrade over time - How distance from the road, visibility, and signage affect foot traffic - Choosing a focused product menu that’s manageable and profitable - The realistic time investment behind baking and restocking a self-serve stand - How to run a shared farm stand with multiple contributors and clear inventory tracking - Why creating an experience matters just as much as the product itself - Packaging choices that work best for self-serve farm stands - Local marketing strategies that actually drive traffic and repeat customers - Whether farm stand oversaturation is a real concern - Income potential and what determines long-term profitability - Where to find resources, recipes, and community support for getting started View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Check out Rayla’s online course: Farmstand Made Simple: Start, Bake & Sell from Home in 30 Days (ALL INCLUSIVE WORKSHOP) Join her LIVE Zoom training every Saturday–teaching people how to start a farmstand or cottage baking business Tune into previous episodes with Flour Barn Bakery: Episode 244: Turn Your Homemaking Skills into a Business: How to Start a Microbakery with Lily and Ellen Episode 302: Building a Profitable Business from Home as a Mom: Lessons from a Micro Bakery with Lily Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Rayla Collins of Farmstand Club | Website | Instagram | TikTok Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

As teens near the end of high school, many families feel the sudden pressure of answering the question, what’s next?  In this episode, Hannah and I dive into how the modern college system developed, why it often no longer fits the realities of work and opportunity, and what can be lost when college becomes the default without a clear end goal. Hannah lays out her practical framework for helping teens think through future work based on real-life needs—not just passion—and why slowing the process down matters more than ever. If you’re looking for insight into guiding your teen through this important transition in life, don’t miss this episode! In this episode, we cover: - Navigating the sudden pressure of everyone asking “what’s next?” when teens near the end of high school - How the modern college system developed and why today’s default path no longer matches the realities of work, debt, or opportunity - The surprising data behind how few jobs actually require a college degree and why degree inflation persists anyway - What gets lost when young adults are pushed into college without clarity– time, confidence, flexibility, and momentum - Reframing career conversations away from passion-first thinking and toward identifying real-life needs and long-term goals - A practical framework for helping teens evaluate their desired future work based on income, schedule, location, and work environment - Why exposure and exploration matter more than credentials, and how simply shadowing careers of interest can prevent costly missteps - How student loan debt quietly limits future options like family life, entrepreneurship, and location flexibility - Why parents play a critical role in slowing the process down, asking better questions, and refusing to co-sign unclear decisions - Encouragement for families who feel unsure how to guide teens without a clear roadmap and why building an individualized plan together is worth the effort View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Listen to the 1000 Hours Outside interview with Hannah  Grab a copy of Hannah’s book, The Degree Free Way: How to Help Your 16-20 Year Old Build the Life They Want Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Hannah of Degree Free | Website | Instagram | YouTube | X  Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

So many of the questions we carry as mothers aren’t about doing more, but about knowing what actually matters. In this Q&A-style episode, I’m answering a wide range of listener questions on motherhood, homemaking, sourdough, sleep, budgeting, and family culture. We talk through pursuing big dreams later in life, simplifying from-scratch cooking without burnout, navigating intense toddler phases, and why flexibility often serves families better than precision. If you’ve been craving reassurance, perspective, and practical encouragement for everyday family life, this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why it’s never “too late” to pursue land, homesteading, or long-term family dreams and how thinking generationally reframes the pressure to accomplish all your dreams right now A practical starting point for moms learning to cook from scratch without feeling overwhelmed Navigating the intense “only mom will do” phase with toddlers and why not every hard season needs fixing Thoughts on daily vitamins during postpartum and nursing, plus the role of consistency over perfection Babywearing realities, newborn neck chafing, and simple ways to keep sensitive skin comfortable and healing Helping preschoolers learn to fall asleep independently after extended co-sleeping without turning bedtime into a nightly battle A straightforward approach to budgeting and saving later in life by simply making spending visible Why measuring sourdough starter isn’t as critical as many think and how I approach baking with a relaxed, flexible mindset Diving into our open-handed approach to having a large family, cultural pressure, and how much planning really belongs in family size conversations Breastfeeding around older children, modesty at home, and why this has become a non-issue over time Setting boundaries with nearby grandparents when frequent visits start shaping daily habits and family culture Using sourdough starter straight from the fridge, reducing waste, and simplifying feeding rhythms Choosing in-person church even when it disrupts naps and why long-term habits matter more than short-term inconvenience View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Check out my friend Abbie’s podcast episode on Christians and fertility Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

Clutter often adds to the mental load of motherhood in ways we don’t always notice. In this episode, we talk about why women tend to feel the weight of clutter more deeply, how “just in case” thinking fills our homes, and what true preparedness looks like. We walk through unfinished projects, kids’ toys, digital clutter, and paperwork, offering simple, realistic ways to let go without guilt. If you’ve been craving a calmer, more functional home without chasing perfection, join us for this practical and encouraging conversation! In this episode, we cover: - Why clutter affects women more than men and how a stressful home environment compounds the mental load of motherhood - The difference between true preparedness and keeping “just in case” items that never actually get used - A practical way to evaluate things you plan to fix someday and how to finally let them go without guilt - How community, shared resources, and skills can replace the pressure to own and store everything yourself - Rethinking modern convenience items, appliances, and technology that add more complexity than ease in daily life - Handling manuals, paperwork, and household information digitally to reduce piles, decision fatigue, and visual clutter - Creating simple systems for managing food storage, bulk buying, and pantry organization without overcomplicating it - Realistic strategies for managing kids’ toys, rotating items, and reducing daily cleanup without constant battles - How to shop more intentionally by slowing down purchases, making space before buying, and acknowledging your current season - Letting go of sentimental clutter while still preserving meaningful memories in ways that don’t overwhelm your home - The hidden weight of digital clutter, from endless photos and screenshots to the pressure modern moms feel to document every moment instead of simply living it View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Check out Robyn’s previous appearances on SFL: Episode 219 | Prioritize Peace in Your Home: Build Your Decluttering Skills in the New Year Episode 268: Do You Have Too Much Stuff? Simplify Your Life Through Decluttering and Minimalism Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Robyn of Minimalist Home | Website | Instagram | YouTube Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

The family table has always been about more than food, yet it’s common to let this rhythm of family connection fall to the wayside in the midst of busy family life.  In this conversation, we explore why shared meals have slowly faded from many homes, the real obstacles that make dinnertime feel difficult, and how simple, nourishing food can still anchor our families in busy seasons.  We talk about flexible from-scratch recipes, rethinking productivity as mothers, and why the table becomes even more important as children grow.  This episode offers practical encouragement for cultivating belonging around the family table without the pressure of perfect or elaborate meals. In this episode, we cover: - How family dinner slowly faded from American life and why reclaiming the table matters more now than ever - The biggest obstacles modern families face when it comes to eating together and which ones are worth pushing back against - Why gathering around the table becomes more important as children get older, not less - A realistic look at simple, nourishing dinners that can come together in 20 minutes without elaborate planning - What it really looks like to keep a “flow” going throughout the day without being tied to the kitchen - How meal prep, sourdough, broth, and slow cooking create flexibility instead of pressure in busy seasons - Setting boundaries around activities and schedules while still allowing teens to grow in their independence - Practical ways to cultivate connection at the table with young children, even when meals feel chaotic - Using stories, shared rituals, and simple questions to turn mealtime into a natural place for conversation and safety - Reframing productivity in motherhood by embracing choppy, interrupted work rhythms and learning how small pockets of effort still add up to progress - Rethinking kids’ snacking habits, how constant grazing impacts appetite and mealtime connection, and why “hunger” can actually work in your favor - Why hosting doesn’t require special menus or extra effort and how shared meals foster community View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Spark conversation around the table with Cultivating the Restorative Table by Dr. Ashley Turner Listen in on my conversation with Dr. Ashley Turner on SFL Browse the Folk School classes over at Well Folk Revival Check out Sarah’s Greenhouse Group online membership Get your copy of Sarah’s DIY book, Homemade Gifts from the Heart and Home Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Sarah of Well Folk Revival | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

So much of motherhood and homemaking lies in learning to hold both the big-picture vision and the everyday realities with open hands.  In this episode, I’m sharing our current farmhouse building update, the excitement of turning my attention to interior design choices, and reflections on raising babies in two very different eras of motherhood.  I’m chatting through toxin anxiety, health decisions, and why I lean heavily on practicality and the 80/20 mindset.  I also dive into the tools and rhythms that make newborn life peaceful in our home— woven wraps, intuitive nursing, co-sleeping, and eventually transitioning little ones to independent sleep.  If you need reassurance, perspective, or just an honest chat about real-life motherhood from a mom of nine, join me for this Q&A! In this episode, we cover: - Starting with a current house update— a pause in building, window delays, linseed-oil–paint prep, and the excitement of finally moving into insulation and interior choices - It is time to re-orient my creative brain toward selecting paint colors, finishes, and a more collected, relaxed country decor style with the help of a designer friend - Reflections on becoming a mom across two very different eras—before smartphones, before constant internet advice—and how perspective shapes confidence - A listener question on toxin anxiety, lead concerns, EMFs, PUFAs, tick bites, and how I keep worry in check by leaning on experience and practicality - The balance between caring about health and letting go of what can’t be controlled—embracing the 80/20 mindset in food, lifestyle, and motherhood - Why woven wraps remain my most-used newborn tool, plus a simple overview my favorite carry, how wovens differ from stretch wraps, and the real-life practicality of babywearing in a busy home - An look at our experience with baby tongue ties— four kids with ties, five without, what releases have looked like, and why each experience was different - A deep dive into my newborn approach: no wake windows, no schedules, responsive nursing, intuitive rhythms, and embracing babywearing and co-sleeping to make the early months peaceful - What co-sleeping safely looks like for our family and how I transition babies to independent sleep around age one - Thoughts on organic vs. non-organic foods in real life, and why I don’t stress about every single grocery purchase - A peek into bedtime routines with multiple young kids— reading together, keeping the process simple, and why teaching little ones to fall asleep on their own is key for us - Handling night wakings, self-soothing, and why I don’t feel guilty about sleep training when the time comes View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Follow my friend Anne at @Storied_Interiors for interior home design inspiration Check out the Farmhouse on Boone YouTube channel to catch up on our farmhouse building project A few of my recent home building updates: collecting architectural salvage pieces for our home, a recent walk-through of our build Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

A medical crisis eight years ago pushed Kody’s family into a complete lifestyle overhaul that ultimately transformed her husband’s health, reshaped their home life, and sparked the creation of Homestead Science.  In this conversation, we chat about moving from overwhelm and trial-and-error to raising capable kids, building a hands-on homeschool, and developing a curriculum that serves families whether on acreage or in a subdivision.  Kody shares what she learned about practical skills, real-food living, large family dynamics, and the surprising joy of watching teens step into responsibility while still getting to be teenagers.  Her story is a reminder that you don’t have to do everything at once, and that meaningful learning can happen right alongside real life! In this episode, we cover: - Kody reflects on her husband's sudden end-stage liver disease diagnosis and how it reshaped their entire family direction - The early overwhelm of shifting from a typical American lifestyle to true whole-food, toxin-free living - Rethinking low-fat diets, salts, and dairy, and discovering how traditional foods supported healing - Finding a holistic doctor who affirmed the very changes they felt drawn to make - Watching her husband's labs steadily improve until he finally received a clean bill of health - Navigating blended family dynamics, homeschooling, homesteading, and medical crises all at once - Realizing there was no curriculum that taught kids homesteading, agriculture, or practical home skills in a real-life way - Beginning to write Homestead Science by creating hands-on lessons for her own kids, from milking routines to budgeting and food safety - How the curriculum grows with children— early ages learning concepts playfully, older students tackling tools, measurements, planning, and economics - Why the program works even for families without land, using store-bought ingredients and small-scale projects - The role of strewing, entrepreneurship, and true responsibility in helping kids discover skills and confidence - Kody’s encouragement to new homeschoolers: drop the pressure, honor what feels realistic in your season, and prioritize relationship over rigid expectations - The surprising dynamic of teens in large families—how they can be incredibly helpful and still fully enjoy being teenagers, despite common misconceptions View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Check out Kody’s parenting book, Raising Self-Sufficient Kids: An Honest Mom's Guide to Intentional Parenting  Explore her homeschool curriculum and resources: Homestead Science Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Kody Hanner of Homestead Education | Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

Getting your kids involved in preparing dinner doesn’t have to feel chaotic or complicated.  Madison shares how simple, flexible meals transformed her family’s evenings and helped her kids become more adventurous eaters.  We talk about handling toddler pickiness, the family rule that ends short-order cooking, and what kitchen help looks like at every age.  Madison also walks us through her weekly meal-planning rhythm, her must-have tools, and the everyday ways children can join you in the kitchen.  If you’ve been wanting to bring more connection and joy to family mealtime, Madison has strategies for you! In this episode, we cover: Madison’s shift from diet-specific recipes to flexible family-friendly meals and why simplicity matters for busy home cooks How she builds variety into her meal rotation without overwhelming herself or her kids A peek into raising adventurous eaters—plus how she handles the one child with strong preferences The family rule that has eliminated short-order cooking and empowered her kids around food choices Why “safe foods” and low-pressure exposure can be game changers for picky toddlers A fresh perspective on toddler pickiness and the biology behind why ages 18 months–3 years are notoriously tricky Practical ways to keep toddlers busy in the kitchen while giving older kids meaningful cooking responsibilities What real kitchen help looks like at different ages— from stirring and slicing to reading recipes and starting the rice Madison’s weekly meal-planning rhythm and the favorite meals she relies on during busy seasons Her must-have kitchen tools (and why she uses the Instant Pot as a crock pot) to keep dinner fast, flavorful, and low-stress Everyday ways kids can join in beyond cooking: setting the table, putting away groceries, learning about food sourcing, and more View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Madison Wetherill of Cook at Home Mom | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

How do you know if you’re ready to have kids? Is buying a grain mill really worth it? Do you need a mixer to experiment with sourdough? These are just a few of the questions we’re tackling in this week’s 40th birthday Q&A. I’m sharing a quick update on our farmhouse build, what newborn life looks like right now, and how my older kids have naturally discovered their interests. We also chat about practical rhythms like afternoon time, laundry stains, raw milk basics, freshly-milled flour, and making sourdough without a mixer. Join me for this conversation about the everyday homemaking routines shaping our home in this season! In this episode, we cover: - A quick birthday trip to NYC for my 40th, traveling light with a newborn, and why short city visits work best for us - Where we’re at with the house build, waiting on casement windows, and what happens once they arrive - Whether my older daughters were at Miriam’s birth and how natural birth has become part of our home culture - How my older kids found their hobbies and when I step in to help brainstorm interests - My thoughts on letting kids choose reading or projects in their free time - How I make all my sourdough recipes with stretch-and-folds, even low-hydration dough like bagels - Raw milk basics: how long it lasts, why making butter can be challenging, and easy yogurt ideas - My take on grain mills, budget-friendly options, and why freshly-milled flour is worth learning - Keeping laundry simple with mostly dark clothing and what I do about stains - Encouragement for first-time moms overwhelmed by baby advice and why on-the-job learning is best - How I’d think through cutting dairy or gluten based on symptom severity - Why I stick to blending whole grain and all-purpose flour instead of using vital wheat gluten View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

Homemaking doesn’t pause when major life changes take place; it simply looks different.  In this conversation, K shares how her family is learning to build stability and peace in the midst of transition, moving off-grid to a 1,300-square-foot cabin in Alaska.  We dive into the practical side of daily life without modern conveniences: hauling water, using solar power, and finding new rhythms for cooking, laundry, and homeschooling, while reflecting on the mindset shifts that make it possible to find joy in the challenges.  This episode is for you if you need a reminder that even in stressful seasons, simplicity, gratitude, and steady forward motion can create a sense of home anywhere! In this episode, we cover: - How K and her family went from homesteading on the east coast to making a permanent move to Alaska after an off-grid summer experiment in 2023 - The surprising challenges of finding affordable, livable land in Alaska and how a podcast connection led them to the small cabin they now call home - What life looks like for their family of nine in a 1,300-square-foot off-grid cabin— setting up solar power, ordering water, and using a composting toilet system - How they manage the daily needs of a large family like refrigeration, cooking, laundry, and dishes without modern conveniences - Why K actually feels less busy now than she did on their 100-acre Pennsylvania farm, and how this slower season is giving her space to refocus on homeschooling and homemaking - Their long-term homestead goals, from installing a wood cookstove to possibly adding pigs, chickens, or even a small dairy animal down the road - The mindset shift that helped her adapt when the move first felt overwhelming— acknowledging the chaos, starting small, and putting one foot in front of the other - How living simply has transformed her relationship with possessions and space, from ruthless decluttering to letting go of “someday” storage bins - Adapting to Alaska’s unique realities: high costs, long drives, and dramatic shifts between endless summer light and dark winter days - K’s practical advice for beginner homesteaders: start with chickens, understand the true workload of dairy animals, and grow slowly - Honest reflections on staying grounded through uncertainty, choosing gratitude, and trusting that every hard transition builds resilience View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT K of Homesteady | Website | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | Podcast Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

What if the best way to raise capable kids is to let them work and create beside you?  Casey and Jason Cashell share how restoring their 1859 Virginia estate has shaped their family through hands-on learning, hard work, and entrepreneurship.  They talk about giving kids real responsibility, letting them learn through mistakes, and helping them turn their skills into small businesses.  Their story offers practical encouragement for parents who want to raise hardworking kids and homes full of purpose and partnership. In this episode, we cover: - How Jason and Casey found and restored an 1859 Victorian home and 37-acre estate to serve as a hub for family, business, ministry, homeschool, and hospitality all under one historic roof - How their kids have been hands-on in every home renovation since toddlerhood and what they’ve learned from real responsibility - Why kids often rise to higher expectations when given meaningful work and trust - Practical ways to raise capable, competent kids even if you don’t have a homestead by simply inviting them into what you are already doing - The heart behind raising “humble leaders” instead of entitled adults in an over-psychologized culture - Why letting children experience struggle and failure leads to humility and long-term success - The difference between confidence built on praise versus confidence built on true competence - Restoring old-fashioned trades and hands-on creativity as an antidote to modern tech dependency - Encouragement for parents who feel unequipped to teach skills– how learning with your kids is often the best approach - Practical examples of entrepreneurship in childhood and how the Cashell kids have turned their skills into online classes - What restoring this historic Virginia estate has meant to their family: living among the birthplaces of America’s founders and making history come alive View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Check out the Cashells’ Mayhurst Estate B&B here Explore the Cashells' hands-on workshops offered at the Artisan Kids Hub  Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Casey & Jason Cashell | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

Building a new home that feels like it’s been here for a hundred years has been a labor of love (and a learning curve!).  In this solo episode, I’m sharing the latest updates from our farmhouse build, what’s been harder (and more rewarding) than expected, and the details that are truly making our home look historic.  From kitchen plans and farm goals to my favorite baby wrap, birth method, and thoughts on balancing homemaking and entrepreneurship, this conversation is a mix of practical tips and real-life reflection from my current season of life. In this episode, we cover: - An update on where we are in the farmhouse build and what has surprised us throughout this unique building process - How priming and painting every board, trim piece, and bit of crown molding has slowed the process but is worth it for the truly historic look - What I’ve learned about creating a historic-looking new build and why proportions matter more than you may think - Is it possible to build a “new old home” on a tighter timeline or with a smaller budget? - Some of my kitchen plans, including the Lacanche range and wood cookstove I’ve been dreaming of for cozy winter baking - What we plan to use our land for and how we are learning from my sister’s full-time farm  - Why I’m such a staunch believer in babywearing and which wrap I’d choose if I could only have one - The reason I won’t have a water birth and the method I swear by that’s made my labors nearly pain-free - Thoughts on whether it’s possible for moms to truly balance homeschooling, cooking, and homekeeping all at once - How Luke and I divide our work, homeschool, and business responsibilities in this season as a full-time entrepreneurial family View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Check out this video where I share our original “new old home” building plans Follow along with my sisters on their YouTube Channels: - Ashley at New Hartford Farm Co. - Andrea at Our Sweet Sunny Days - Laura at Our Oily House Watch my step-by-step Babywearing Wrap Tutorial video on Farmhouse on Boone Find my favorite wrap here: Didymos Prima Natural Woven Wrap Some of my go-to sources for country home decor inspiration: Country House Living by Nora Murphy and a few books by Gil Schafer Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

Parenting doesn’t necessarily get easier as the years go on, but the demands change. In this conversation, Sarah of Our Tribe of Many shares what life looks like as a mom of 11, from toddlers to young adults, and how her perspective on motherhood has transformed along the way. She shares their process of designing a home with future generations in mind, finding confidence in the homeschooling journey, and learning to release control as her kids grow into independence. We also talk about common misconceptions about large families, how to redefine your “wins” in overwhelming seasons, and the freedom that comes from trusting your God-given instincts over the noise of the internet. Join us for this conversation full of wisdom and encouragement no matter where you are in your motherhood journey! In this episode, we cover: Sarah shares what life looks like as a mom of 11, with children spanning from 3 years old to 21 years old How raising children into adulthood shifts your perspective on what truly matters in motherhood The process of designing and building a custom home with future family gatherings and grandkids in mind The surprising ways homeschooling has evolved as older children graduate and confidence is gained in the process How parenting changes when your kids become young adults—shifting from managing their days to guiding their decisions, learning to trust, pray, and stay connected in new ways Reflecting on common misconceptions about big families and the deep connection that’s actually possible in a large household When life feels overwhelming, change what counts as a “win,” and reminds yourself that steady, imperfect progress still adds up The value of tuning out online noise and finding wisdom from trusted voices and real-life community Why mothers can trust their God-given instincts rather than chasing every new parenting philosophy View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Sarah of Our Tribe of Many | Website | Instagram | YouTube Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

What if the path to a peaceful home isn’t found in having more and doing more, but in less? In this episode, I’m chatting with Sarah Therese, a young mom of five who shares her journey of creating a peaceful, intentional home in the midst of real family life. We talk about how living with less first shaped her perspective, the simple systems that keep her family of seven running smoothly every day, and how she keeps her heart grounded in motherhood amid all the noise. Join us for an encouraging conversation about rhythms, rest, and building a home that truly serves your family. In this episode, we cover: Why Sarah chose to pause her YouTube channel and how stepping back is helping her reset and find peace in her home life The hidden work behind filming homemaking content and how to balance authenticity with protecting children’s privacy How living as a family of five in a 700-square-foot mobile home first shaped Sarah’s minimalist mindset Bringing that same simplicity into a larger home and learning to create coziness through color and visual interest, not clutter The difference a minimized wardrobe makes in the ease of starting the day and necessitates greater intentionally in shopping Simple systems that keep kids’ clothes organized: grow-in bins, small drawers, and one load of laundry a day Why Sarah sees homemaking and motherhood as one calling, and how she invites her children into daily work beside her The few kitchen tools she relies on to make everything from scratch without cluttering her counters The importance of guarding your heart against comparison in motherhood and being the mom your unique kids need Why delegating and asking for help is not a sign of weakness but ultimately serves your family  The mindset that keeps overwhelm at bay— trusting rhythms, not perfection, to bring peace to the home View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Sarah Therése of Simplifying Motherhood | Website | Instagram | YouTube | Patreon Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

I’m back behind the mic with baby Miriam in my arms, sharing her birth story and what life has looked like in this new season. She was my earliest and smallest baby yet, and my first experience with breast milk jaundice. I’m chatting about postpartum rhythms, how my perspective has shifted after years of motherhood, and a few listener questions on everything from diet and mold prevention to couches, business growth, and sourdough. Tune in for this catch-up on life lately in our family of eleven! In this episode, we cover: Sharing Miriam’s birth story — my earliest baby yet and one of my smoothest, simplest deliveries My first experience with breast milk jaundice, what I learned, and how I found peace of mind through it Reflections on postpartum life, newborn sleep, and easing back into our daily rhythm Why I’m confident in our meat and dairy focused diet and how sourcing matters more than labels How I’ve learned not to worry so much about teaching or milestones after years of experience raising little ones What we’re doing in the new build to prevent mold (and how I’m learning not to stress over every comment) My honest take on modular washable couches and what to know before buying A look at how Farmhouse on Boone has evolved from a small blog to a full-time family business Thoughts on when I’m comfortable leaving a breastfed baby overnight The rule of thumb I use for turning any family favorite recipe into a sourdough version View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

Homeschooling six kids while running a thriving food blog is no small feat, but Laura of Joy Food Sunshine shares how she’s made it work without losing sight of her priorities.  From the postpartum depression that first pushed her to start blogging, to the viral chocolate chip cookie recipe that still ranks #1 on Google, Laura opens up about building a business alongside motherhood.  We talk about sharing responsibilities with her husband, letting go of perfectionism, setting boundaries, and creating content rooted in real life.  This conversation is packed with encouragement for moms who want to pursue something they love while keeping family first! In this episode, we cover: Connecting with Laura Sandford, homeschooling mom of six and creator of Joy Food Sunshine How postpartum depression after her third baby lead Laura to start her food blog as a creative outlet The viral chocolate chip recipe that grew her blog and continues to rank #1 on Google since 2017 Building a business in the early years by tag-teaming childcare and homeschooling with her husband Learning to let go of control, hire help, and find the right people to support her business Monthly check-ins with her husband to ensure every business maneuver is still serving their family– not the other way around Saying no to opportunities like writing a cookbook until the season is right Structuring work hours during afternoon rest times and keeping the business sustainable in busy family seasons Letting go of perfectionism in homemaking and setting up simple systems for chores, cleaning, and laundry Laura’s honest story of postpartum depression during nursing seasons and how she chooses to slow down and savor the baby years Why both of us believe sustainable content has to come from real life, not just chasing trends Advice for moms who want to start something online: focus on passion, authenticity, and consistency rather than sensationalism View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Laura’s chocolate chip cookies recipe  Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Laura of Joy Food Sunshine | Website | Pinterest | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

Boyhood today looks very different than it did a generation ago, and many moms are wondering how to raise sons who thrive in a culture that often works against them.  In this conversation with Molly, we talk about why so many boys are struggling and how we as moms can ground them in faith, family, and belonging.  We dive into practical ways to recognize your son’s unique wiring, reframe weaknesses as strengths, and guide him through big emotions, school struggles, and everyday responsibilities.  From the resilience built around the family dinner table to the importance of one-on-one connection and real-life community, you’ll hear encouragement and tools for nurturing boys in the formative years so they can grow into men of strength, character, and purpose! In this episode, we cover: Why boys today are struggling and how culture shapes their sense of identity Biblical principles that guide us as moms raising sons Recognizing the unique wiring of each boy and learning to reframe weaknesses as strengths The importance of belonging, worldview, and family connection Family meals as a simple but powerful practice for building resilience in kids Eight key areas to nurture in your son during the formative years Creative ways to weave one-on-one connection into ordinary family life Guiding boys through anger and big emotions  Encouraging motivation and building focus for schoolwork without constant battles Teaching boys to notice messes, take initiative, and follow through on responsibilities Understanding what’s “normal” chaos in a boy-filled home and how to balance it with structure Why real-life community is vital for moms raising boys, and how it brings encouragement and perspective View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Mothering Boys: 8 Things Your Son Needs from You before He Turns 10 by Molly DeFrank Check out Molly DeFrank’s previous episode on the podcast Listen to RuthAnn Zimmerman’s recent episode on the podcast Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Molly DeFrank | Website | Facebook | Instagram Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

While waiting on baby #9, I’m sharing one last solo chat before stepping into the newborn season!  From why I’m hoping for a daytime labor and how mindset shapes birth pain, to what the Christmas season really looks like in a big family, this episode is a mix of my personal reflections and practical advice.  I dive into my approach to teething, first foods, picky eaters, sourdough routines, and even how I’ve kept up with full-time content creation without burning out.  If you’ve ever wondered how I approach motherhood rhythms with a house full of kids, this one pulls back the curtain a bit! In this episode, we cover: At 39 weeks pregnant with baby #9, I’m reflecting on labor patterns and what I’ve noticed over the years Why I’m really hoping for a daytime labor this time and how mindset can change the pain of contractions What Christmas morning looks like in our house with so many kids and how I’ve felt both joy and overwhelm around the holidays The real answer to what number of kids is “easier” or “harder,” and why perspective makes all the difference My laid-back approach to teething, baby-led weaning, first foods, picky eaters, sunscreen, Tylenol How I currently handle fermenting sourdough with stretch-and-folds, my everyday breads, and why bagels are my go-to when I’m short on time Behind the scenes of content creation: how I’ve kept up with weekly videos and avoided burnout through different seasons Why I keep baby items minimal, how I store what we do use, and my experience with toddlers and breakables View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible! RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook CONNECT Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.