In this episode, Kody chats with Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, about helping farmers sell meat directly to consumers in today’s market. Katie shares how she transitioned from teaching elementary school in rural Iowa to building an online farmers' market that connects producers with buyers nationwide. Together, they unpack the difference between custom-exempt and retail meat sales, how inspection laws affect shipping, and why clear pricing and education are key to building trust with customers. Katie also shares insights on simplifying online sales, using email marketing instead of relying on social media, and creative strategies for selling the lesser-known cuts that often sit in farmers’ freezers. Episode Links Chop Local Website: https://choplocal.com/ Chop Local University: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/choplocalmeat YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@choplocal Podcast: Meat Success Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, Kody tackles one of the most complex and often misunderstood topics in America: the food stamp system and its impact on personal responsibility, nutrition, and self-sufficiency. She traces its origins from FDR’s 1939 program to today’s SNAP, uncovering how a system designed to feed the hungry gradually created a culture of dependency. Drawing from her own experience as a single mother who once relied on food assistance, Kody offers a compassionate yet challenging perspective on how modern policies, education gaps, and processed food industries have eroded our connection to real food and the skills to provide it. She reminds listeners that if those in power control the food, they control the people. Through history, statistics, and personal reflection, Kody urges families to reclaim their independence by learning to cook, grow, and nourish themselves. She calls for a return of home economics and small-scale agriculture to schools, stronger nutrition education, and support for farmers—the very people who sustain our nation. This thought-provoking conversation challenges the idea that aid alone can solve hunger and points toward a future where resilience, knowledge, and self-reliance take the lead. Episode Links Brand new student planner: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/product/homestead-student-planner/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/160411704 Porthill Printing website: www.porthillprinting.com  Porthill Printing social media: @porthillprinting Book Links: The Jungle by Upton Sinclair Omnivores Dilemma   Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, Kody sits down with Greg and Kristen Leininger, founders of Steader, to share how their own homesteading challenges sparked the idea for a faith-led, community-driven app built to reconnect local food systems. They open up about turning that vision into a working platform that helps neighbors buy, sell, and trade. From their family’s journey toward a simpler, purpose-filled life to their mission of helping others live closer to God’s design for food, land, and fellowship, Greg and Kristen show how technology can actually bring homesteaders back together—one trade, seed, or story at a time. Episode Links Website: https://www.steader.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steaderapp Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steaderapp/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, Kody sits down with author Brian Combs of The Homestead Kids to share how a dad’s bedtime stories, written to help his newly adopted daughters navigate a big move, grew into a faith-led adventure series that’s turning reluctant readers into eager book finishers. Brian opens up about weaving Scripture naturally into wholesome homestead tales, why he designed the books with full-color chapter illustrations, 14-point type, and a dyslexia-friendly edition, and the reader feedback that keeps him writing. Episode Links Website: https://thehomesteadkidsbooks.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095518380679 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehomesteadkidsbooks/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, Kody sits down with Jennifer Wheeler, co-founder of Grass Fed Skin, to share the inspiring story of how she and her husband, Eric, followed God’s calling to leave their established healthcare careers and build a family-run, faith-led skincare business. Jennifer opens up about the moment she felt led to start something new, the early days of crafting tallow balm at home, and how their simple, natural product has transformed lives by helping people heal their skin and reduce toxins in their homes. Episode Links Use code "WelcomeGFS" at checkout to get 10% off! Website- https://mygrassfedskin.com/ Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/grassfedskin Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550030956702 Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, Kody Hanner opens up about one of the most important (and overlooked) parts of homesteading life — building real, lasting community in rural areas. From her own experiences moving before COVID to discovering how neighbors rallied in times of crisis, Kody dives deep into the why and how behind connection, support, and mental wellness on the homestead. Whether you’re new to country life, raising your kids off-grid, or transitioning from city living, this episode offers inspiration and tangible ways to find your people — in person, not just online. Episode Links Ladies Homestead Gathering: https://www.nlhg.org/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, Kody shares what’s been happening on her homestead and in her business — from breeding season and beef prices to the big leap into running a full in-house print shop. She opens up about the real-life challenges and triumphs of raising livestock, growing a business, and raising a family — all while staying rooted in her mission to reshape agricultural education for the next generation. Kody also reflects on why “Agriculture Is Everywhere” — how it impacts every aspect of our daily lives, why kids need hands-on life skills now more than ever, and her growing vision to bring agriculture and home economics back to the heart of modern education. Whether you’re a homeschool parent, small-scale farmer, or simply passionate about where your food comes from, this episode is a reminder that we’re all connected through agriculture.   Episode Links Homestead Economics & Business Mini Course: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/product/homestead-economics-business-mini-course/ Seasons on the Homestead: Autumn Educational Activity Book: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/product/seasons-on-the-homestead-autumn-educational-activity-book/   Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, I’m joined by Cheryl Daley—homeschooling mom, speaker, author and host of The Homeschool How To Podcast. Cheryl is passionate about helping parents recognize how culture and education are shaping their children, often by design, and equipping families to stand firm in their faith. With years of homeschooling experience and a heart for encouraging other parents, Cheryl shares how families can guard their children’s hearts and minds, strengthen their faith foundation, and raise resilient kids in today’s world. We explore how cultural influences affect the next generation, why intentional parenting matters, and practical steps you can take to build a Christ-centered home. Episode Links Website: https://thehomeschoolhowto.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089912183883 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehomeschoolhowtopodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehomeschoolhowto Grab your copy of Cheryl’s brand-new Homeschool Starter Guide eBook!- https://thehomeschoolhowto.com/product/the-homeschool-how-to-complete-starter-guide/ Get your copy of Let's Talk, Emergencies on Amazon today! Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, I’m joined by Katie J Trent—bestselling author of Dishing Up Devotions, Recipes for a Sweet Child, and A Merry and Bright Adventure, and founder of the Family Faith-Building Academy & Community. Katie’s mission is simple yet powerful: make discipleship easier—and deliciously fun—for busy homeschooling families. With over 15 years of experience in counseling, ministry, and church planting, Katie shares how hands-on family discipleship can weave biblical character traits into everyday life. We explore how to define your family’s faith background, set intentional goals for what you want to teach your kids, and multiply the gifts God has given you. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links Website: https://katiejtrent.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katiejtrent Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiejtrent/ Purchase Katie's books: Dishing Up Devotions, Recipes for a Sweet Child, and A Merry and Bright Adventure Grab Katie's 101 Life Skills Bundle FREE: https://katiejtrent.com/lifeskills/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, I’m joined by Mary Bryant Shrader—author of The Modern Pioneer Cookbook and The Modern Pioneer Pantry, and the host of Mary’s Nest on YouTube, where she shares over 700 videos on nourishing, traditional cooking from scratch. Mary opens up about her journey from homeschooling mom to a trusted voice in traditional food. Her books aren’t just cookbooks—they’re hands-on guides for anyone ready to make simple, wholesome meals at home. We discuss the free K–12 cooking curriculum she created, the value of real-life skills such as rendering lard, making broth, and baking from scratch, and how she teaches in a way that’s encouraging—not overwhelming. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links YouTube: Mary’s Nest Website: marysnest.com Purchase her cookbook here: marysnest.com/my-cookbook Download your free copy of The Modern Pioneer Cookbook Curriculum: https://marysnest.com/cookbook-curriculum/ Facebook: facebook.com/marysnest Instagram: instagram.com/marysnest Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, I am joined by Amanda Nigg—better known as Farm Fit Momma—a homeschooling mom and entrepreneur who built a business that fits her life and family, not the other way around. Amanda shares her real-life journey of growing a purpose-driven brand while raising kids, managing homeschooling, and staying rooted in faith. From early-morning bookkeeping to balancing client work during naptime, Amanda opens up about the flexibility, discipline, and intentional planning it takes to run a successful business from home. If you're a homeschooling parent, work-from-home mom, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with relatable insights and encouragement to help you build a business that aligns with your values, your schedule, and your purpose. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links Website: https://www.farmfitmomma.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmfitmomma/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farmfitmomma Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, I sit down with Alex McRae, founder of Alair Ag Drones and co-founder of Nature Shield Pest & Lawn, to explore how drone technology is revolutionizing modern agriculture. Raised in rural Idaho, Alex blends his love for farming and aviation to support sustainable, healthy land practices. From crop dusting with drones to navigating FAA certifications, he shares how innovation is helping small farms thrive. But that’s not all, Alex also discusses his family’s homeschooling journey, how real-world experiences shape their education, and the value of bringing entrepreneurship to the kitchen table. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links Alair Ag Drones Website- https://alairdrones.com/ Nature Shield Pest & Lawn Website- www.gonatureshield.com  Nature Shield Pest & Lawn Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/gonatureshield Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, I welcome Dennita and Mimi from The One-Room Red Schoolhouse in Dinwiddie County, Virginia. This unique, faith-based one-room schoolhouse blends traditional academics with hands-on homesteading and entrepreneurial education. Tune in as they discuss their mission, how they structure their days, and why practical, nature-based learning is essential in today’s world. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links Website- https://redschoolhousenetwork.com/ Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/the_one_room_red_schoolhouse/ Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/TheRedBarnFarmVA Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, I talk with Tiffany Michaels of Sparrow Homeschool about using real-world experiences to teach history, geography, and faith. With over 15 years of homeschooling experience and a background in social work, Tiffany brings a thoughtful and hands-on approach to education. She shares how travel through the Pacific Northwest shaped her curriculum, inspired connections to Indigenous history, and supported a Christian worldview. From field trips and artwork to tough conversations and humor, Tiffany shows how to make homeschool history meaningful and memorable.   Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links Sparrow Homeschool Website- https://sparrowhomeschool.com/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, I’m opening up with a little encouragement and honesty—because homesteading doesn’t have to be picture-perfect to be meaningful. I’m talking about redefining what homesteading looks like when money’s tight, and how purpose-driven hustle can still lead to big wins. I share real, practical tips on cutting costs through cooking from scratch, bartering and trading, offering labor in exchange for goods or knowledge, and sourcing what you need for free or cheap. It’s all about building self-sufficiency and community, on your terms. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links- Homemade Cost Cutting Guide- https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/product/homemade-cost-cutting/ Business Coaching- https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/product/business-call/ How to Start a Homestead Business Guide- https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/product/how-to-start-a-homestead-business-planning-guide/ Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, we’re joined by Stacey Carpenter of Hop’n Ridge Ranch — a dedicated homesteader, entrepreneur, and educator who’s building a thriving life rooted in purpose and practicality. Stacey shares her journey of starting a homestead from the ground up and how she’s turned her passion into a full-fledged business and educational platform. We talk about the realities of balancing family, farming, and finances — from raising livestock with intention to teaching others through hands-on experiences. Stacey opens up about the learning curves, the wins, and the mission behind Hop’n Ridge Ranch. Whether you’re new to homesteading or looking to grow your farm-based business, this episode offers a candid look at what it takes to make it work, with tips on marketing, community-building, and staying true to your “why” along the way. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links Find Hop'n Ridge Ranch on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/hopnridgeranch Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/sheep_of_5048 Give Stacey a call at 509-944-5559 Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Kilpatrick of Farm on Central, a seasoned farmer, educator, and advocate for sustainable small-scale agriculture. Michael shares valuable insights into the world of urban farming, how to thrive within city limits, and why smart marketing is key to farm success. We dig into the real struggles small farmers face — from navigating confusing regulations to staying afloat financially — and Michael offers practical, experience-backed advice on how to diversify your income streams to build resilience on your homestead or farm. Whether you’re a backyard grower, market gardener, or dreaming of your first CSA, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and real talk about the challenges and opportunities in modern farming. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links Find Michael Kilpatrick on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growingfarmers/ Get 5% off using this link: https://www.farmoncentral.com/?ref=hteirdlu Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

In this episode, we explore the return to traditional skills like chicken processing, pig butchering, and local food production. We talk about the legacy of 5th generation farming, the role of midwives in rural communities, and the growing desire for self-reliance. Plus, get a sneak peek at the upcoming Montana Homesteaders Festival in Plains, MT—packed with workshops, demos, and community connection. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links Find out more about the Montana Homesteaders Festival in Plains, MT on June 20th-21st- https://www.montanahomesteadersfestival.com Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/montanahomesteadersfestival   Kody Links Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

Have you ever considered how the food you eat gets its nutrients? Well, it is all from the soil. This means if your soil is deficient or contaminated, so is your food. Gregg Forster from Wisconsin Mineral Solutions shares how to balance your soil with some simple changes and great products. Tune in for insightful information on soil science and responsible land management. Sponsored by BaseCampEd - It Takes a Village, Build Yours Today! Episode Links Find Gregg Forster and suggested downloads: https://www.wisconsinmineralsolutions.com/ Albrect Papers on Balancing Soil: https://amzn.to/3FCnf10 Neem oil for orchards: https://amzn.to/3ZbPMRM Explanation of Mineral Wheel: https://vbfarms.com/minerals-what-are-they-and-why-are-they-important/ Kody Links JUNE DOMESTIC ORDERS OVER $250 SHIP FREE WITH CODE: JUNESHIPFREE Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

If your homestead isn't compliant, you can find yourself in trouble. Alexia Kulwiec from Farm to Consumer Legal Defense Fund has helpful tips for you.  Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund (FTCLDF) protects the rights of farmers and consumers to engage in direct commerce through legal representation and policy work. Our members receive help drafting the agreements they need to provide food directly to consumers. We are there for farmers facing inspection and regulatory issues and may provide representation of members facing litigation if it fits our mission. We work to influence state and local policy to ease the regulatory burden placed on independent farmers. Sponsored by BaseCampEd App - It takes a village, build yours today! Episode Links Find FCLDF: www.farmtoconsumer.org Phone: 703-208-3276 Email: info@farmtoconsumer.org Digital Thermometer: https://amzn.to/4mv48Xn Find Kody Website: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/ Shop Curriculum: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Speaking Events: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/events Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Watch episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation