The Coop

In this episode of The Coop, you’ll learn:How Shaye defines homesteading (you’ll love this)Letting your definition evolve as seasons change: kids, business, capacity, and real lifeThe overlap and differences between homesteading and homemakingWhat it actually means to “cultivate the beautiful life” in an ordinary weekUsing the five senses … music, scent, texture, light, and taste … to transform daily choresSimple non-negotiables: making the bed, cooking dinner, and “putting the kitchen to bed”Learning what’s worth preserving (and what isn’t) for your actual familyCooking with fewer ingredients, more pleasure, and what you already have on handHow travel (especially Italy) has shaped Shaye’s home, cooking, and aestheticPractical strategies for traveling while homesteading … without burning outWhy your homestead is here to serve you, not the other way aroundHolding onto what’s good, true, and beautiful in a home-centered life

In this episode of The Coop, you’ll learn:Why homesteading is mental first, physical secondHow to start where you are (sprouts > sourdough > chickens)Dirt, movement, sunshine: the real health stackSelf-worth through meaningful tasks (and raising needed kids)How growing half your food changes budget and healthBuilding community without the algorithm (gifts, trades, help)Duplication > domination: how small acts at scale tip systemsMarket leverage: how 10% shifts the food economyWhat to invest in now: skills, tools, land, trees, relationshipsRealistic hope: pessimistic on institutions, optimistic about you

In this episode of The Coop, you’ll learn:Carolyn’s incredible freeze-drying storyWhy YOU should be freeze-drying at homeThe seven simple steps to freeze-dryingHow to preserve everything from fruits to full meals with easeHow to choose the right freeze dryerSave time and avoid mistakes with practical tutorials and checklistsWhat other equipment you really need (or don’t)Creating healthy, shelf-stable foods for year-round family meals