Pioneering Today Podcast - Homesteading in a Modern World

For the first time ever, genetically modified seeds have been made available to the common gardener for home use. I’ve been hearing from many home gardeners how excited they are to grow this new variety of tomato in their home garden, which to be honest, surprises me. Which makes me wonder if everyone knows exactly what GMO seeds are, and if we ought to be concerned? In today’s podcast, I’m diving into the nitty gritty of what classifies a seed as GMO, or Hybrid, or F1 Hybrid. I’m also explaining self-pollination, open-pollination and what you need to know as a home-gardener to successfully seed save. But more importantly, I want to discuss the place of GMO seeds in the home-garden. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/419. Azure Standard is the sponsor for this podcast. For first-time Azure customers, get 10% off your first order of $50 or more with coupon code "Melissa10" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

When raising grass fed beef there are key things you need to know on butcher day to get the most out of your cow. What to do before the butcher arrives and what cuts to ask for, and some are going to surprise you. How to get the best flavor on your meat and our favorite ways to prepare these lesser heard of cuts. Get the show notes and resources at https://melissaknoris.com/214 including our Freezer Space for Meat Guide, so you know exactly how many feet of freezer space you need per animal. Get Melissa's newest book with bonuses at http://Familygardenplan.com

Learn how to make money homesteading with 12 ways to earn a homestead income and real cash from your farm, even if you only own a small amount of land. Melissa share's real ways they've used to earn income from their homestead as well as how family and friends take their skills and land to earn them money and how you can too. For resources and links go to https://melissaknorris.com/151

In this throwback episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, I’m sitting down with my dear friend Mary Shrader from Mary’s Nest to talk about how we can all build a kitchen where nothing goes to waste. Mary has such a gift for making traditional cooking approachable and fun, and in this episode she shares how her parents inspired her to live a homemade lifestyle long before it was popular. Together we walk through practical ways to make the most of every ingredient, from turning veggie scraps into flavorful broth to keeping a “scrap bag” in your freezer. We also talk about the mindset behind a no waste kitchen. It’s not about perfection, it’s about taking small, simple steps that fit into your real life. You’ll learn how to use what’s in your fridge before it spoils, how to build a well stocked pantry that saves time and money, and how to create meals that make the most of what you already have on hand. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by throwing out food or wondered how to stretch your groceries a little further, this episode will give you the encouragement and know how to make your kitchen a place of abundance and creativity. You can find more information and any links mentioned here: https://melissaknorris.com/484   

Today I’m sharing a throwback of one of the most popular coaching calls from inside my Pioneering Today Academy: “How to Get It All Done on the Homestead.” I wanted to bring this one back because figuring out how to manage your time and energy on the homestead is something we all struggle with. In this episode, I’ll show you how to break down big projects like canning peaches or putting up the harvest into smaller, doable steps that actually fit your daily life. No more marathon canning days or feeling completely overwhelmed. Instead, you’ll learn how to create rhythms and routines that make your homestead more enjoyable and sustainable. If you’ve ever felt like there just aren’t enough hours in the day, this episode is for you. Let’s jump in. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/483 This episode is sponsored by Azure Standard, one of my favorite ways to stock up on bulk grains, organic produce, and pantry staples without spending hours driving from store to store. Azure makes it easy to live intentionally while still working smarter in the kitchen. Right now, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more when you use code “Melissa15” at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

In this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, I’m sharing why I’m pressing pause on new episodes for the rest of 2025 and what that really means for the future of the show.  After years of teaching and encouraging others to live simply and seasonally, I’ve found myself needing to take my own advice. I’ve been dealing with some physical burnout and learning, once again, that rest isn’t quitting, it’s stewardship. In this episode, I’m opening up about what led me to this decision, what you can expect in the months ahead, and how slowing down can actually bring more peace and purpose to your homesteading life. I’ll also tell you how you can help shape what’s next for Pioneering Today by sharing your feedback and ideas for future episodes. My hope is that this conversation encourages you to listen to your own body, honor your current season, and remember that even in rest, we’re still growing. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/482

Seed saving is one of the most valuable skills a gardener can learn, and in this episode I’m joined by Don Tipping of Siskiyou Seeds to dive deep into the why and how of saving your own garden seed. We’ll cover the difference between open-pollinated, heirloom, and hybrid varieties, which crops are best for beginners, how to prevent cross-pollination, and tips for harvesting, drying, and storing seeds so they last for years.  Don also shares how seed saving helps you develop plants uniquely adapted to your microclimate, creating the heirlooms of tomorrow. Whether you’re brand new to seed saving or looking to refine your skills, this conversation will inspire and equip you to grow a more resilient, self-sufficient garden. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/481 This podcast is sponsored by Redmond Real Salt. Did you know Redmond sells much more than just salt? I love their bentonite clay powder and it’s a must-have in our house because we use it for wound care. Check out all of Redmond’s products at melissaknorris.com/redmond-salt and use code "PIONEERING" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Think you need a traditional root cellar to keep your harvest fresh through the winter? Think again. In this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, Melissa K. Norris sits down with Sam Knapp of Off Beet Farm in Alaska to talk about practical, no-fuss ways to store root vegetables without a root cellar. You’ll learn the three keys to long-lasting storage—temperature, humidity, and airflow—as well as simple methods like using a spare fridge, Rubbermaid totes, or packing in sand or shavings. Sam also shares which crops are the most forgiving, the best varieties for long-term storage, and how to troubleshoot common problems like shriveling and rodents. Whether you’re a backyard gardener or growing a year’s supply of food, this episode will give you the confidence to keep carrots, beets, potatoes, and cabbages fresh for months. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/480 This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Think from-scratch cooking is hard or takes too much time? The truth is, with a stocked pantry, a few simple substitutions, and some foundational kitchen skills, you can make healthy, homemade meals in less time than it takes to run to the store. In this podcast, we're busting the top myths about from-scratch cooking and showing you how to:  ✅ Swap ingredients with easy substitutions (no last-minute store runs!) ✅ Make boxed food favorites from scratch—faster and healthier ✅ Save time with meal planning that actually fits your family  ✅ Reheat leftovers so they taste fresh and delicious ✅ Build a stocked pantry that makes dinner stress-free You’ll see how learning just a handful of simple techniques can transform your kitchen, your budget, and your confidence as a home cook. From homemade cream-of-soup that takes four minutes to a DIY biscuit mix that beats Bisquick, cooking from scratch has never been easier. 👉 Want to go deeper? Join me for my FREE live training, “From-Scratch Cooking Made Easy,” on September 8th where I’ll share pantry staples, substitution secrets, and time-saving tips: https://melissaknorris.com/kitchen Related Videos & Resources: • Homemade Cream of Soup Substitute: https://melissaknorris.com/the-best-cream-of-soup-recipes-youll-ever-make/ • How to Meal Plan Without the Stress: https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/how-to-meal-plan-for-easy-healthy-meals-from-scratch/ • Homemade Biscuit Mix Recipe: https://melissaknorris.com/homemade-biscuit-mix/ ✨ If you’re ready to ditch the boxes and serve your family nourishing meals every night—without the overwhelm—this podcast is for you!

Looking for healthy and refreshing summer drinks that aren’t soda? In this podcast, we’re sharing our favorite homemade beverages to help you stay cool and hydrated on hot summer days. From sparkling lemon spritzers and fruity mocktails to herbal iced teas, iced coffee, and smoothies. You’ll find plenty of delicious options made with real ingredients right from your kitchen or garden. What you’ll learn in this podcast: Easy soda alternatives you can make at home Seasonal fruit mocktails like watermelon basil & rhubarb lemonade How to use herbs for refreshing iced teas and infused waters My go-to protein shake and iced coffee recipe Simple tricks like herbed ice cubes & chia pudding for cool summer treats Say goodbye to sugary sodas and hello to nourishing drinks that actually hydrate and satisfy! For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/478

In this special episode, I sat down with my dear friend Carolyn Thomas from Homesteading Family, right in her Idaho home! We’re pulling back the curtain on what life looks like on a mature homestead.  After over two decades each of growing food, raising animals, and running busy households, we’re sharing what we’ve let go of, what we’re leaning into, and how we’re building homesteads that truly work for our families and seasons of life. From letting go of burnout and fussy crops to rethinking dairy animals, planning for grown kids, and producing more animal feed right on the land. This is a real, refreshing conversation you won’t want to miss. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/477 This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

This episode is near and dear to my heart. With one child officially out of the house and my daughter quickly approaching adulthood, I've found myself feeling all the feelings this summer: nostalgic, grateful, and more intentional than ever. I gathered a few dear homesteading friends for a heartfelt kitchen roundtable where we shared our favorite summer memories, the simple things that stuck with us from childhood, and how we're creating meaningful traditions with our families today. We’re talking bonfires, camping, blackberry picking, and yes, even escape rooms and game nights! You'll hear how summer rhythms have shifted for each of us over the years, what’s working in this season, and why it’s okay to buy the hot dog buns and use paper plates if it means more time connecting with your people. If you're longing for a slower, richer summer full of real connection, this episode is for you. Let's make the most of the season we’re in, together.  For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/476 Grab Plated by Season here: https://melissaknorris.com/plated   

If the idea of parasites gives you the creepy-crawlies, you’re not alone, but chances are, you’ve already got a few living in your body right now. In this episode, I’m joined again by Dr. Torrie Thompson, a functional medicine doctor who walks us through how common parasites actually are, the surprising symptoms they can cause, and how we can support our bodies in safely removing them. We’re talking about everything from food sensitivities and skin rashes to poor sleep and anxiety, and how they might be linked to hidden infections. Dr. Torrie also shares what herbs, binders, and protocols she uses in her own practice, as well as what to avoid if you're not ready to detox yet. If you’re feeling off and haven’t found answers, this might be the missing piece. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/475  

In this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, I’m sharing all about my experience as a mentor and homesteading expert on the new show Back to the Frontier. It was such a privilege to help guide modern families as they learned old-fashioned skills and stepped into a simpler, more self-sufficient way of life.  I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what it was really like on set—the challenges, the surprises, and the moments that reminded me why I’m so passionate about preserving these traditional skills and passing them on to the next generation. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/474 This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

What does it really take to live off the land in today’s world—and could you do it under pressure? In this special episode, I sit down with Stacey Loper, one of the brave contestants from the brand-new TV series Back to the Frontier, where modern families are challenged to survive like the pioneers.  I share my behind-the-scenes experience giving advice to the show's cast, while Stacey opens up about the hardest parts of filming, how faith and grit carried her through, and what lessons she’s bringing home to her real-life homestead.  Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or just starting out, this conversation will inspire you to get back to basics and trust that you can do hard things. Tune in for a heartfelt, down-to-earth chat about community, resilience, and living intentionally—on and off screen. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/473

Join me for this podcast with Will Harris from White Oak Pastures and Taylor Henry from Acres USA as we discuss what's going on with fertilizer companies and immunity for their products.  For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/472 Grab your tickets to the Modern Homesteading Conference here and use coupon code MKN15 for 15% off: https://modernhomesteading.com/  This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

So you want to go on vacation or you need to leave town for a few days... but you have a homestead. Feel like you're stuck? Listen to today’s podcast with four fellow homesteading moms as we share our tips and tricks for how we prepare to leave our homesteads. Plus, the commonly forgotten tasks!  For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/471 Grab your tickets to the Modern Homesteading Conference here and use coupon code MKN15 for 15% off: https://modernhomesteading.com/  Be sure to check out my dehydrating mini course and all my other classes here: https://melissaknorris.com/classes/ This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

In this podcast, we're discussing the hidden layers of homestead security and why community may be your best defense. When we talk about defense, many people think about locks, cameras, etc. But what if your greatest security wasn't a thing but a who? For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/470

Join me with Don Tipping from Siskiyou Seeds as we discuss direct sowing methods for seeds. You’ll also want to catch his tips on how to keep weeds out of the garden, and his brilliant hack for using a flamethrower without ruining your seedlings. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/469 Grab your Modern Homesteading Conference tickets here and use code "MKN15" for 15% off at checkout: https://modernhomesteading.com 

Join me with Farrow Skincare’s Charles Mayfield as we discuss the benefits of tallow and lard for skincare, especially pre-sun and post-sun skincare. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/468 Check out Farrow Skincare and get 15% off your purchase with coupon code “Melissa15”: https://farrow.life/