Farm Fresh Homestead | Homesteading, Organic Gardening & Living Off the Land

Most people talk about growing their own food — but few truly understand what it takes to eat, plan, raise, and preserve through all four seasons. This is the complete roadmap for a one-year homestead cycle in the Caribbean: from droughts to floods, planting to preserving, and soil to soul. What happens when the rain doesn’t come? How do you store six months of cassava without a fridge? And what does it take to build a system that keeps feeding you even if you get sick, lose power, or face a crisis? If you’ve ever dreamed of true self-reliance — this is the deep dive you’ve been waiting for. Would your system survive a hard year? Or just a good season? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the Caribbean, animals were never just livestock — they were messengers, protectors, and spiritual barometers. Goats were raised not just for meat, but for ritual. Roosters didn’t just crow — they warned of death. Ground doves were never caged, only honored. This cinematic Farm Fresh Homestead episode explores the deeply rooted ancestral knowledge behind how Caribbean people raised their animals — with no antibiotics, no plastic fencing, and no waste. Why did elders believe certain animals couldn’t be mixed? What signs did dogs give before death entered a home? And what taboos kept people from ever raising parrots or rabbits? This isn’t just animal husbandry — it’s cultural survival. Would you know what the yard is trying to tell you? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think growing your own food only feeds your belly? Think again. This isn’t just a garden — it’s your untapped income stream. From selling surplus callaloo and eggs to crafting herbal soaps, teas, and infused oils, this episode teaches how your backyard can become a business. Discover step-by-step ways to start a micro-CSA, run your own barter economy, open a seed library, and build community-driven income without leaving your plot. Why do most homesteaders never monetize their skills? What’s stopping you from selling your soap, compost, or seedlings? And how do you price your products without guilt? This isn’t just about survival — it’s about sustainable empowerment. What’s your homestead worth when you value your time, tools, and traditions? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people don’t realize their backyard is a pharmacy waiting to be rediscovered. From bitter cerasee vines to sleep-inducing soursop leaves, the Caribbean is rich with healing plants—and ancestral knowledge that’s slowly being forgotten. This episode walks you step-by-step through how to grow, harvest, and use 7 powerful herbs—fever grass, thyme, guinea hen weed, turmeric, aloe, and more—while teaching you how to build your own home apothecary. But this isn’t just a how-to guide. It’s a return to rhythm, resistance, and the sacred act of self-care.Could you care for your family during a storm with just the land around you? What herbal wisdom did your grandparents use that’s now almost lost? And if your health system failed tomorrow… would you be ready? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people flush and forget. But in this radical homesteading guide, we explore how composting — from banana peels to human waste — can completely transform your soil, your garden, and your mindset. From building compost bins using recycled Caribbean materials, to raising a worm army in your kitchen, to the controversial but life-changing practice of humanure composting — this episode doesn’t flinch.Why are we still treating waste as a problem when it’s nature’s greatest gift to the soil? What secrets did our Caribbean elders already know about managing waste before toilets and trash cans took over? And what would it mean to truly live in a zero-waste cycle, where nothing is thrown away and everything returns to the earth?Listen in, take notes, and challenge the way you think about what you throw away.Would you try composting your own waste if it could regrow a forest? Or is some soil just too sacred to touch? Let us know in the comments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people think off-grid cooking is a survival tactic — but in the Caribbean, it’s a living art form. From keyhole fire pits to solar ovens, ash bread to smoky saltfish, this episode takes you deep into the rituals, recipes, and resilience of ancestral Caribbean cooking. We’re not just boiling water here — we’re roasting breadfruit over coals, reducing coconut milk under the stars, and reclaiming flavor from fire. What can bush tea and ash bread teach us about freedom? Why are so many homesteaders turning back to charcoal, wood, and the sun? And how do you build a cook station that feeds your family with zero electricity? This is more than a how-to — it’s a revolution with every flame. Would your grandmother recognize your kitchen? Would your children survive without a stove? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people think rainwater is just backup for dry days — but in the Caribbean, it’s been the heart of cooking, cleansing, and survival for generations. This episode takes you beyond barrels and tanks into the cultural, legal, and spiritual reality of water harvesting in island life. You’ll learn how to build your own rain catchment system, what’s safe and legal depending on your island, and how to use every drop in the kitchen — from rice and peas to herbal baths.Why did our elders wash with the first rainfall of the season? Why do some kitchens bless the stove with rainwater before the first boil? And how do you survive drought without plumbing — and still eat like royalty?This isn’t just about water. It’s about legacy, survival, and love. Would your home survive two weeks without the tap? Or would you thrive like your ancestors did? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people never learn what it really means to raise and eat your own chicken. But in this intimate homestead guide, we go beyond backyard basics into the raw, respectful truth of what it takes to turn your coop into a complete food source. From ethical butchering and age-old egg preservation methods to Caribbean cooking techniques that honor every edible part — this episode offers the tools, mindset, and ancestral knowledge to feed your family without waste or shame.What part of the chicken do you use that most people throw away? And which tradition do you believe should never be forgotten in the kitchen? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think raising chickens is as easy as tossing out some corn and waiting for eggs? Think again. In this hands-on Caribbean homesteading guide, we break down everything from coop construction and predator-proofing to brooding chicks, egg-laying cycles, and ethical meat harvesting. Learn the hard truths about broilers, the hidden wisdom of yard fowl, and the age-old traditions that still shape island life today. Whether you're starting with six hens or planning a full backyard operation, this episode teaches you how to do it right—from your first feather to your final pot of chicken foot soup. What breed would you raise first—layers, broilers, or yard fowl? And how would you balance sustainability with the emotions of harvesting your own meat? Drop your thoughts and tag a friend who's thinking about starting a flock. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the essential homestead skills for success in this step-by-step guide tailored for sustainable living and backyard farming. In this episode, you'll learn how to build safe systems, cultivate healthy soil, and establish a reliable garden that produces organic vegetables and fresh eggs from your backyard chickens. Discover farm-fresh habits that ensure a thriving homestead and self-sufficiency. Whether you’re passionate about organic gardening, composting, or urban homesteading, this episode provides valuable insights for anyone eager to reclaim their independence and embrace resilient living. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. 

You’ve grown your garden, harvested your meals, and now you’re ready for the next chapter—chickens. This final episode of Season 1 is your complete beginner’s guide to raising chickens in a Caribbean setting. Learn how to choose the right breeds, build a predator-proof coop, feed your flock on a budget, and keep them healthy using traditional bush remedies and modern care. We also explore the ethics of raising birds for eggs and meat, share insights into Caribbean practices, and offer a path to expanding your backyard ecosystem with ducks, quail, or goats. Whether you're on a balcony in Kingston or a hillside in St. Lucia, this is how self-sufficiency begins—one feather at a time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caribbean Gardening Traditions — What the Elders Know Before soil tests and garden apps, Caribbean elders relied on inherited wisdom—planting by the moon, brewing herbal medicine from backyard leaves, and using proverbs to guide the rhythm of the land. This episode is a journey back to the roots: a soulful exploration of how gardening traditions carried healing, memory, and spiritual protection through generations. We’ll unpack bush remedies, lunar planting, companion planting, garden blessings, and the oral storytelling that made every harvest more than food—it made it family. Whether you're starting a small plot or honoring your lineage, this guide is your invitation to listen, grow, and remember. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Everyone makes mistakes in the garden—but not everyone grows from them. In this honest and empowering episode, we uncover the most common beginner errors in Caribbean gardening: overwatering, poor drainage, overcrowding, pest mismanagement, bad soil, mistimed planting, and chemical overreliance. Learn practical fixes, mindset shifts, and ancestral wisdom that will help you keep going even when your garden seems to fail. Whether you're working with buckets or beds, this guide will help you start again with confidence—and grow wiser with every season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A true Caribbean meal begins with the soil beneath your feet. In this episode of Farm Fresh: Caribbean Homesteading Chronicles, we walk you through the full journey from harvest to kitchen. Learn how to recognize when your crops are ready, how to harvest them gently, and what to do next—from storage to the stovetop.You’ll also get easy, authentic Caribbean recipes like callaloo coconut stew, pepperpot, and thyme-infused vegetable sautés—all made with ingredients from your backyard. Whether you're cooking in a rural yard, balcony garden, or urban homestead, this episode teaches you how to honor your harvest and turn it into something sacred.This is more than food. It’s reconnection, resilience, and self-reliance—served hot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Farm Fresh: Caribbean Homesteading Chronicles, we dive deep into the heartbeat of every thriving garden—water. Whether you're working with a single bucket, a rain barrel, or a rooftop setup, water management can make or break your harvest.Learn practical, step-by-step techniques to collect rainwater, build DIY drip systems, and create personalized watering schedules that match your local Caribbean climate. Discover how to read plant signals, improve your soil’s water-holding capacity, and prepare your garden for drought without stress. This isn’t theory—it’s survival.Perfect for island gardeners, beginners, and backyard farmers looking to grow more with less. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 4 of Farm Fresh: Caribbean Homesteading Chronicles, we explore the foundation of homesteading, organic gardening, and resilient living through the lens of the Caribbean climate. This episode is your practical how-to guide for starting a food-sovereign garden — no matter your space or skill level. Whether you’re working with a balcony bucket or a full backyard farming setup, we walk you through what to plant, when to plant it, and how to choose the right seeds for your growing zone. Learn how to time your crops for success, explore the benefits of heirloom seeds vs. hybrids, understand Caribbean microclimates, and dive into beginner-friendly crops like callaloo, pak choi, tomatoes, thyme, and peppers. We also discuss companion planting, permaculture principles, and seed saving for long-term sustainable living and self-sufficiency. Whether you’re focused on small-scale farming, urban homesteading, or full-blown organic farming, this episode helps you build confidence in growing your own food the farm-to-table way. #homesteading, #sustainableliving, #organicgardening, #backyardfarming, #farmtotable, #permaculture, #composting, #organicfarming, #farming, #farmers, #gardening, #organicliving, #organic, #backyardchickens, #foodsovereignty, #resilientliving, #smallscalefarming, #farm, #seedsaving, #urbanhomesteading, #selfsufficiency, #foodpreservation, #naturalremedies, #ecofriendly, #offfarm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the foundations of homesteading and organic gardening in this soil-focused episode of Farm Fresh Homestead. Healthy soil is the beating heart of every thriving garden and backyard farm. Whether you’re practicing urban homesteading on a balcony or growing crops in a rural plot, we guide you through the principles of sustainable living and natural land care. This episode teaches you how to build, test, and regenerate soil using methods like composting, natural fertilization, mulching, crop rotation, and companion planting. Discover how organic farming practices support self-sufficiency, reduce synthetic inputs, and nourish the earth beneath your food. We also explore long-term soil health strategies rooted in permaculture and organic living, empowering you to grow the cleanest, healthiest produce right from your land. Whether you're in the Caribbean or a container garden in the city — soil is soul. #homesteading, #sustainableliving, #organicgardening, #backyardfarming, #farmtotable, #permaculture, #composting, #organicfarming, #farming, #farmers, #gardening, #organicliving, #organic, #urbanhomesteading, #selfsufficiency, #foodpreservation, #naturalremedies Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover how to become a homesteader regardless of your living space! This episode of Farm Fresh Homestead dives into micro-gardening using recycled containers — a perfect solution for urban homesteading, small-space farming, and anyone pursuing sustainable living. Learn how to assess your home environment, improve your soil quality, and choose the best organic gardening crops for tight areas like balconies, porches, and windowsills. We’ll share actionable tips on composting, vertical gardening, and avoiding common mistakes many beginner gardeners face. Whether you're new to homesteading or just want to live more self-sufficiently, this guide helps you start growing your own food the farm-to-table way. Plus, get a quick intro to permaculture principles and how organic living can transform your relationship with food. Grow more with less — no backyard required. #homesteading, #sustainableliving, #organicgardening, #backyardfarming, #farmtotable, #permaculture, #composting, #organicfarming, #farming, #farmers, #gardening, #organicliving, #organic, #urbanhomesteading, #selfsufficiency, #foodpreservation, #naturalremedies Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this gripping episode of The Awakening — Why Homesteading Matters Today, discover why the real solution to food insecurity, rising prices, and modern burnout may not be escape, but a return — to the land, to the soil, and to sustainable living. This episode is your gateway into the world of homesteading, offering a practical, empowering guide to organic gardening, backyard farming, and self-sufficiency. Whether you're in a city high-rise or a rural homestead, this immersive how-to dives deep into the systems of small-scale farming, permaculture, composting, and urban homesteading. You'll learn how to grow your own food, store clean water, raise backyard chickens, cook from scratch, and prepare for crisis — all while restoring purpose and connection in your everyday life. Grounded in ancestral wisdom but designed for today’s reality, this episode bridges the gap between modern chaos and meaningful, farm-to-table living. If you’re ready to reclaim your independence and find joy in the everyday, this is your blueprint. #homesteading #sustainableliving #organicgardening #backyardfarming #smallscalefarming #urbanhomesteading #selfsufficiency #farmtotable #permaculture #backyardchickens #composting #organicfarming Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, learn to grow tender baby ginger and firm mature rhizomes right in your backyard! This beginner's field guide outlines clear steps for growing ginger, ensuring success in your organic gardening efforts. Discover key techniques for backyard farming and embrace sustainable living practices throughout the season. We’ll dive into effective tips for soil preparation, watering, and harvesting your ginger while keeping your garden eco-friendly and organic. Join us as we explore this rewarding homesteading experience, empowering you to cultivate your own fresh ginger for delicious farm-to-table meals.