The Homestead Challenge Podcast | Suburban Homesteading, Gardening, Food From Scratch, Sustainable Living

Brittany Gibson - Beginner Homesteader

Do you feel like you want to cook from scratch, grow more of your own food, or live intentionally—but never have the time or energy to do it all?

Tried diving headfirst into homesteading only to end up overwhelmed, burnt out, or wondering where to even begin?

You’re not alone.

If you’re ready to build a homestead life that actually works with your modern, busy schedule—this podcast is for you.

Inside The Homestead Challenge, you’ll find time-saving routines, realistic strategies, and practical tips to help you simplify home systems, grow what you can, and start living from scratch—without the pressure to do it all perfectly.

Hey friend. I’m Brittany—crunchy mom, city homesteader, and your go-to for making slow living possible in real life. I tried the all-at-once approach to homesteading… and crashed hard into burnout. Turns out, trying to master everything at once just wastes time, money, and a whole lot of mental energy.

But here’s the good news: homesteading doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You can do this in small steps that make a big impact.

If you’re ready to create a from-scratch lifestyle with more rhythm and less chaos—grab that sourdough starter from the back of the fridge... it’s time to rise.

https://thehomesteadchallenge.com

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215 episodes
Updated July 21

Episodes215

Newest first

Apr 19, 2024 · 16 min
Ep 34. Six Herbs for Spring Allergies
Today I talk about six of my favorite herbs for spring allergies and how to consume them (and how to get your kids to take them, too!). LINKS MENTIONED Starwest Botanicals: https://www.starwest-botanicals.com/?sscid=41k8_mmxwh https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/herbal-allergy-tea-recipe/ www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/ https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Apr 16, 2024 · 16 min
Ep 33. Things No One Tells You About Gardening
We all start somewhere. I am not a beginner but also not an expert gardener. This is my first year building a full-on garden, and I was surprised to learn these things. I almost felt silly when I learned some of these things this year. Let me know a surprising thing you learned during your first year of gardening! P.S. Thank you for 10k downloads! Links Mentioned: www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/ https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Apr 12, 2024 · 24 min
Ep 32. How to Deal When Other People Don't Really Support Your Natural Lifestyle
It can be so hard when your friends and family just don't really get it. They might not be outright unsupportive... but when you are surrounded by people who don't get your desire to live a toxic-free, natural life (or want a homestead!), it can be a little exhausting. In this episode, I am going to explore some of the ways that you can deal with these feelings, bridge the gap, gain support, and stay true to your lifestyle choices. Links Mentioned: www.facebook.com/groups/thehomesteadchallengecommunity/ https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Apr 9, 2024 · 13 min
Ep 31. Taking the Reins When Things Change on the Homestead
It's time for change! But like, good change! Not scary change. The kind of change that we KNOW if coming... and we can actually plan for it if we just accept that it is going to happen. Whether it's a new season with new homestead tasks, your kiddos getting older, a new job, or something else, we all know change will happen indeed. Instead of getting stuck in our old routines, let's make some time to take the reins and make a plan that works for our lives in this new season. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/time
Apr 5, 2024 · 10 min
Ep 30. 4 Gatorade Alternatives for Hydration During the Flu
Y'all. This has been the WORST Flu of my life. Holy Moly. Here are 4 sports drink ideas that might be better options for you than Gatorade when you are in need of some serious hydration. Stay well! Link to my storefront with most of the products mentioned: https://www.amazon.com/shop/brittanylgibson/list/1MDAGD3YRJ6N5?ref_=aipsflist_aipsfbrittanylgibson Magic Magnesium: https://woodenspoonherbs.com/collections/powders/products/magic-magnesium Refreshing Blackberry Rosehip Marshmallow Root Infusion Recipe Yield: about 4 cups (2 drinks) Ingredients: For the Marshmallow Infusion: 1 quart water ¾ cup marshmallow root, dried and chopped For the Blackberry Rosehip Syrup: 2 cups blackberries, fresh ¼ cup rosehips, dried ¼ cup honey ¼ cup water 1 tbsp lemon juice pinch of sea salt Instructions At night, fill a jar with 1 quart water and ¾ cup marshmallow root. Shake to combine and refrigerate. The next day, strain the mixture. To make the blackberry rosehip syrup, combine blackberries, rosehips, honey, lemon juice, and ¼ cup water in a small pot. Simmer together for 15 minutes, smashing the blackberries with the back of your spoon or a potato masher. Strain the mixture into an airtight container. To make a single beverage, combine 1 pint marshmallow infusion with 1 tbsp blackberry rosehip syrup over ice. Stir. Add a pinch of sea salt and garnish with lemon.
Apr 2, 2024 · 12 min
Ep 29. 3 Mental Triggers to Make Homesteading Easier
Being a wife and/or mama is AMAZING, but it can be a LOT. There are so many things on our plates. It got me thinking about ways I simplify remembering to do ALL THE THINGS. I am not perfect at this, but there are three specific triggers in my daily life that remind me to do other things that are easier to forget. These triggers have made a HUGE difference in my life, and I think you can create some in your routines to do the same (and it's actually pretty easy!). Sign up to help solidify your everyday routine: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/time
Mar 29, 2024 · 23 min
Ep 28. The Raw Truth: My Milk Journey and How Herdshare Realigned my Mindset
In this episode, I dive into a crucial turning point in my homesteading life – the moment I finally found a raw milk herdshare near me. This wasn't just about choosing healthier milk; it was about taking ownership of my choices and realigning with my core values. 🌿 Why Raw Milk? Raw milk isn't just milk. It's a symbol of balance and natural wellness, packed with more amino acids, antimicrobials, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids than its pasteurized counterpart. It’s especially beneficial for those dealing with lactose intolerance, asthma, and autoimmune conditions. But this journey is more than just about milk. It's about making conscious choices that resonate with our lifestyle and beliefs. Like always, I don't think that MY choice is necessarily the right choice for YOU! But there are SO many great options to uplevel your dairy game if you are still buying conventional milk. 🌱 Every step towards a more informed choice is a step towards better health and alignment. It’s all about embracing those steady, positive incremental changes. Links Mentioned: https://realmilk.com https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Mar 26, 2024 · 19 min
Ep 27. Systems and Online Communities Have Kept My Homestead Afloat
Things have been a little out-of-whack around my homestead. But solid systems and an online community have truly been the things that have kept me going. I am eager to teach you these systems and create an online community so that no suburban homesteader ever feels like they don't have someone or something to fall back on. https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/workwithme
Mar 22, 2024 · 17 min
Ep 26. Can you be a homesteader and a minimalist? 5 Ways I Got Minimalism All Wrong
Spring cleaning is ALL the rage on the interwebs, and there are a few buzzwords that go around this time of year. Mainly, "minimalism." Don't run away yet! I know... most of us homesteady types are NOT here for minimalism. But hear me out, I think minimalism has a few principles we can apply to better our homestead lives (and no, not that cold, gray aesthetic). Check out 5 mistakes I made when I thought I had to be a minimalist and how we can all learn a few minimalist values to help reach our 2024 goals! Homework: Before bringing something new into your life, whether it is a physical item or an activity, make sure it aligns with your homestead goals. Links Mentioned: FREE Challenge: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/time Instagram The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Mar 19, 2024 · 16 min
Ep 25. 3 Step Spring Refresh to Revitalize Your Homestead Routine
Starting a solid routine before the busy homestead season is crucial, especially if your kiddos will be out of school over the summer! Everyone is spring cleaning right now, but there is so much more to it than that! Getting these things out of the way now will ensure your homestead's success for the year and get you into a rhythm that will make the rest of the year run so much smoother. Listen in for 3 ways to spring refresh your homestead so you can set yourself up for an abundant and stress-free season ahead! Links Mentioned: FREE Time Management Challenge: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/time Sustainable Declutter Challenge: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/eco-friendly-printable-30-day-declutter-challenge/ Spring Simmer Pot Recipe: https://thehomesteadchallenge.com/simple-spring-floral-and-citrus-simmer-pot-recipe/ The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Mar 15, 2024 · 15 min
Ep 24. Eat Your Frogs: How to Reset Your Homestead When You Feel Burnt Out
I am so excited to share Field Prep Foundations, a FREE 5-day challenge to help you reclaim and realign your time. Over the course of five days, you will receive emails with a video challenge containing simple, actionable steps for you to move toward a homestead jam-packed with all of the things you want to do, and ditching the rest. Here's what to expect: • Identifying Time Wasters • Homestead Goal Setting • Time Blocking • Automating + Delegating Tasks All straight to your inbox! Each day is designed to help you cultivate a more organized and productive approach to your homesteading activities. JOIN THE FREE CHALLENGE https://thehomesteadchallenge.com The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community
Mar 12, 2024 · 35 min
Ep 23. The Importance of Local Community in Homesteading with Caitlin of Homegrown Hopes
In today's conversation, Caitlin of Homegrown Hopes shares some common misconceptions about homesteading, tackling the myths of homesteading and the importance of local community (something I am not always the best at!). It's all about finding balance, leaning on each other's strengths, and creating a supportive network. For those aspiring or current homesteaders, Caitlin leaves you with a message of patience, continuous learning, and the courage to put knowledge into action. Whether it's starting small with herbs on an apartment balcony or joining a local community garden, the key is to dive in and try. Don't forget to check out Caitlin's podcast, Homegrown Hopes, after this episode! LINKS MENTIONED https://homegrownhopes.com/ https://holistichomesteadconference.com/ The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Mar 8, 2024 · 20 min
Ep 22. Non-Toxic Cleaning Routine without Essential Oils
I am feeling the clean and declutter bug. Big time. I think that is totally normal for this time of year. More and more people move toward non-toxic cleaners every year, and I wanted to give you my favorite recipes (without essential oils... well... sometimes) in case you are looking to do the same in your own homestead. I have a complicated relationship with essential oils that are so beloved by the crunchy community. Dive on into this episode to learn why I am not in love with them, and what I use instead! HOMEWORK: Start infusing some white vinegar! Links Mentioned: DIY Thieves Cleaner DIY Wood Cleaner Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap (join the email list!) Links for all of my favorite products Instagram The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Mar 5, 2024 · 17 min
Ep 21. How I Did All of My Homestead Tasks in 45 Minutes
Discover how to efficiently tackle your homestead tasks! Today, I'm chatting about how I managed all my homestead tasks in just 45 minutes by using the critical path method. Streamlining tasks to overcome the chaos of jumping from one task to another can help boost our productivity while actually making us feel LESS busy. Transitioning from the strict structure of academia to the flexibility of homesteading led me to feel a little bit lost without structure in my days. I found methods that actually work to increase my productivity, make me less busy, but still remain flexible. Implementation for Larger Projects: List project activities. Identify dependencies. Create a critical path diagram. Calculate the duration of each activity. Determine the overall timeline following the critical path. Links Mentioned: Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap Links for all of my favorite products Instagram The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Feb 29, 2024 · 14 min
Ep 20. Seed Sorting Simplified: Organizing Strategies for Every Gardener
Seed organizing sounds like a daunting task, but it is actually kind of fun! Hear me out... you get to see what else you still need to buy and then go seed shopping! What could be better than that? I've learned that if I get organized in a way that works for my brain before the peak of garden season, I will set myself up for a lot more success (and a lot less stress). When it's go-time, I will get to play in the garden and get my hands in the dirt, not trying to remember what I am supposed to plant and when. Recall the organization styles we explored in Episode 12 about kitchen organization. It's time to apply those principles to your garden seed organizing. Homework: Get yourself organized. Really. Do it. Today. Links Mentioned: The Best Seed Organizing Ideas Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap Links for all of my favorite products Instagram The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Feb 27, 2024 · 14 min
Ep 19. Grit & Growth: Overcoming Homestead Fears and Failures
Whether you're daunted by the prospect of failure or success, homesteading fears can be REAL. I received a thought-provoking question from a Facebook follower and I couldn't resist talking about this topic right away (because I think it hits home for all of us). In this episode, I explore the complex emotions that come with change – from the unsettling fear of failure to the surprising apprehension of success, and even the daunting impostor syndrome. Why does success sometimes scare us as much as failure? Let's confront these fears head-on. What happens when our worst fears come to life? This episode isn't just about homesteading – it's about growth, resilience, and the courage to face our fears. Homework: Make the lists of fears you either had starting out or still have, then make a list of your fears once you get started? Take time to let them sink in and truly think about whats worse. I don’t think you will struggle to make your dreams come true if you look at the alternatives. Links Mentioned: Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap Links for all of my favorite products Instagram The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Feb 23, 2024 · 17 min
Ep 18. Homesteading Hills That I Am Not Going To Die On
People have some seriously strong opinions online over homesteading things. Whether it be politics, sustainability, health claims... the list goes on and on. Don't get me wrong! I AM HERE FOR THAT! I am here for homesteaders speaking out about things no one else is talking about. What I am not all about? YOU thinking that you have to die on all of these hills. That is tiring and honestly, impossible. There are some hills that I personally am not willing to die on, but you might! Make sure you are prioritizing what actually matters to you most for your own homestead. In today's episode, I wanted to chat about some things that I decided to let slide a bit so I can focus on what's important most to me. Homework: Join the Facebook group and tell me the hill you would die on. What do you want to scream from the rooftops? Links Mentioned: Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap Links for all of my favorite products Instagram The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Feb 20, 2024 · 13 min
Ep 17. 5 Ways to Homestead When You Are Sick
I don't know how it got us again, but the family has gone through another round of colds. I thought we were done for the season! Alas, I wanted to think of things I could check off my homestead to-do list from the couch. In today's episode, I am going to chat about 5 ways you homestead while you are sick, so all of your systems don't crumble, you stay organized, and you don't come back from illness to a hot mess house! If you found any of these tips helpful, please leave a 5-star written review. It would mean the world to me. Homework: Make an extra of one of your meals this week that freezes well and put it in the freezer to have on hand. Links Mentioned: Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap Links for all of my favorite products Instagram The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Feb 16, 2024 · 13 min
Ep 16. 7 Things You Can Do Right Now to Start Your Garden Season Off Right
Join me as I prepare to make this spring gardening season the best one yet! Remember, a little planning today leads to a lush, thriving garden tomorrow. Why is now the perfect time to start garden planning? So you don’t get overwhelmed this garden season! HELLO! There is actually so much you can do right now. Today I am going to share my top 7 ways to prep your garden so you have your best season yet. 🌻 Let's get our hands dirty and get to it! HOMEWORK- Make a plan to start your garden NOW instead of waiting until grow season. Links Mentioned: Spring Gardening Tips Free Raised Bed Plans Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap Links for all of my favorite products Instagram The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic
Feb 13, 2024 · 30 min
Ep 15. Systemizing Your Suburban Homestead with Chelsi Jo
Before you add anything else to your homestead task list, you MUST get your home management systems in order. Chelsi Jo of the Systemize Your Life podcast is here to help us do just that. She walks through her systems as a crunchy mama and talks about where you can start to organize your own life and say goodbye to the overwhelm through a flexible, automated system suited to your own homestead (yes, even if your schedule is chaotic!). These systems have made me feel like I gained time in my days (and space in my brain!) and I hope they work for you too! Check out where to find Chelsi in the links below. Links Mentioned: Listen to the Systemize Your Life Podcast Check out the Systemize Your Life Home Management System Get Your Free Homesteading Roadmap Links for all of my favorite products Instagram The Homestead Challenge Facebook Community Leave Feedback on the Show or Request a Topic