Best The Efficient Homestead Podcasts (2024)

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288. Melissa K. Norris on Modern Homestead Living 44:46

2d ago44:46

44:46

Has the homesteading movement finally peaked? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael explores this question and more with Melissa K. Norris who is a fifth-generation homesteader, author and educator in Washington state. Melissa inspires and guides thousands of fellow homesteaders through her website, podcast, and books on creating …

1
287. Olivia Schoentrup on Farming Journeys and Innovations 32:50

8d ago32:50

32:50

Why is it important to share the stories of small-scale farmers? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Olivia Schoentrup, a sixth-generation farmer who has transitioned from traditional farming to RV living and farm touring. Olivia shares her unique journey, shedding light on the challenges of scaling up a small farm and …

1
Episode 121 - Explosive Growth from 2 Pigs to a Large Scale Farming Operation in Less Than 36 Months! 1:25:09

10d ago1:25:09

1:25:09

In this episode, I talk with Bryson Lipscomb of Triple Oaks Farm in Virginia about how he and his wife took a simple hobby farm and in less than 3 years turned it into a large scale operation that has them both working full time now on the farm. Also, join us for discussion of all things pastured pig on our new facebook group, The Pastured Pig. htt…

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286. Melanie Cunningham on the Power of Oxen in Farming 42:29

16d ago42:29

42:29

Have you ever wondered how traditional oxen power can transform modern farming? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Melanie Cunningham of Shakefork Community Farm in Northern California. Along with her husband, Kevin, they grow a variety of vegetables, strawberries, and pasture-raised livestock using permanent raised be…

1
285. Ray Tyler on Balancing Family and Farm Life 45:09

23d ago45:09

45:09

How do you successfully balance family and farm life? Find out in this episode of the podcast with Ray Tyler! Ray has previously been on the podcast and he also participated in our Thriving Farmer Vegetable Summit this past January. Ray is an inspiring figure in the world of sustainable agriculture and is a dedicated family man, self-made farmer, a…

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Episode 120 - Managing Red Wattles, Beef, Sheep, and the Frozen North as a retired Navy Officer 54:57

24d ago54:57

54:57

In this episode, I talk with Maj Jim Brickson (retired) about his farm/homesteading efforts on 50 acres in Northern Minnesota. Jim and his wife are both retired from the military and looks to enjoy the golden years on the farm. We talk about some of the challenges that poses as well as how to manage aging and farming work. Check out the Brickson Yo…

251
284. Jim Sander on Community-Centered Nonprofit Farming 39:23

1M ago39:23

39:23

How can shifting from profit-driven farming to a nonprofit model enhance food production and community well-being? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Jim Sander of Wildflower Lane Farm in North Carolina. After a successful career selling to local markets and CSAs, Jim shifted his farm’s focus to growing produce exclusi…

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Episode 119 - Adjusting and Evolving Market Setup for Maximum Efficiency - Sheraton Park Farms 1:01:18

1M ago1:01:18

1:01:18

In this episode, I talke with Chuck Lewis of Sheraton Park Farms about how his farmer's market setup has evolved over time to produce the most efficient and profitable setup for his farm. Chuck dies into the details of cost and things to consider when setting up for a market. Also, join us for discussion of all things pastured pig on our new facebo…

301
283. Will Harris on the Shift from Industrial to Zero-Waste Regenerative Farming 55:18

1M ago55:18

55:18

How can a zero-waste ecosystem benefit both the environment and the local community? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Will Harris, a fourth-generation farmer and the owner of White Oak Pastures. His regenerative farm maintains a zero-waste ecosystem that supports 10 species of animals and produces everything from hig…

351
282. Ari Memar on Saving Time and Increasing Revenue with Farmhand 44:01

1M ago44:01

44:01

What could you achieve with an extra 10 hours each week on your farm? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Ari Memar, the founder and CEO of Farmhand. Ari combines his tech expertise with a passion for sustainable agriculture to help local farmers boost their profits and cut down their workload, all through innovative te…

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Episode 118 -Exploring the Pros and Cons of an AGH X Hampshire cross with Evergreen Farm 49:14

2M ago49:14

49:14

In this episode, I speak with Tyler Hill of Evergreen Farm in Pennsylvania. Tyler is working 53 acres with chickens, sheep and pigs. Pigs are his most recent addition and through providence, he ended up with a breeding pair of AGH X Hampshire. We explore the challenges of this cross and what he has liked and what he plans to do differently. Also, j…

401
281. Briana Bosch on Sustainability, Sheep, and Suburban Farming 1:06:21

2M ago1:06:21

1:06:21

How can suburban spaces transform into sustainable farming hubs? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Bri Bosch who runs Blossom & Branch Farm in Colorado. On 1.7 acres in the suburbs of Denver, Briana and her husband have been blending budget-friendly farming with environmental stewardship, and offering educational …

451
280. Hannah Breckbill on Collaborative Farm Ownership 34:30

2M ago34:30

34:30

Does a farm run by its workers affect its success and how it operates? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael talks with Hannah Breckbill, who helped start Humble Hands Harvest. This organic farm in Northeast Iowa is run by its workers. Now in her 12th year, Hannah and her team practice no-till farming, showing their dedication to …

1
Episode 117 - Discussing Processing Woes and How to Overcome Them 1:29:02

2M ago1:29:02

1:29:02

In this episode, Rob Dowdle and I am have a comprehensive discussion on issues we have all faced with processors. Our conversation turns from the sad horror stories to how to manage issues and tips on how to prevent them in the first place. Also, join us for discussion of all things pastured pig on our new facebook group, The Pastured Pig. https://…

501
279. Josh Holleb on Advancing Efficient Greenhouse Design 36:05

2M ago36:05

36:05

What are the key benefits of integrating advanced technology into greenhouse construction? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Josh Holleb who is the Systems Integration Specialist at Ceres Greenhouse Solutions. Josh combines his construction and farming expertise to help create sustainable growing spaces that blend…

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Episode 116 - Building educational opportunities at Revercomb Farms in Virginia 52:20

2M ago52:20

52:20

In this episode, I talk with Mindy Lipinski of Revercomb Farms in VA about how they manage their pigs on pasture and how they have added education opportunities to not only share their knowledge and experience but also to create additional income for the farm. Also, join us for discussion of all things pastured pig on our new facebook group, The Pa…

551
278. Bryce Loewen on the Sweet Success of Stone Fruits 41:27

2M ago41:27

41:27

What are the biggest challenges in fruit farming? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Bryce Loewen of Blossom Bluff Orchards as he shares his journey in agriculture and the challenges of organic fruit farming in California's Central Valley. He discusses the life cycle of orchards, the yield per acre of stone fruits,…

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Episode 115 - Building a Destination Location farm store in Point Blank, TX 50:37

3M ago50:37

50:37

In this episode, I talk with Stephanie Walker of Vincent Farms in Point Blank, TX. Stephanie shares how she has transitioned to full time farming and how she is building a distination location with her farm store. Also, join us for discussion of all things pastured pig on our new facebook group, The Pastured Pig. https://www.facebook.com/groups/the…

601
277. Paul Muller on Organic Farming's Past, Present and Future 1:00:01

3M ago1:00:01

1:00:01

How has organic farming evolved over the years and what might the future hold? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Paul Muller who is a part of the pioneering force at Full Belly Farm, a 450-acre certified organic farm in North Central California. For over four decades, the farm has championed economic stability, ye…

651
276. Abram Bicksler on Empowering our World's Farmers with ECHO 47:35

3M ago47:35

47:35

How does the health of soil directly impact global hunger solutions? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Abram J. Bicksler, Ph.D., who is President and CEO of ECHO, a global Christian organization focused on empowering the undernourished through sustainable hunger solutions. With over 15 years of international exper…

701
275. Julia Bocchese on Sprouting Success: SEO Strategies for Farmers 24:11

3M ago24:11

24:11

How can SEO transform your farm's online visibility? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Julia Bocchese, a SEO Consultant for agriculture and horticulture businesses and founder of Homegrown Reach. With a deep passion for supporting local agriculture, Julia focuses on making businesses easily discoverable to their i…

751
274. Cole Mazariegos-Anastassiou on Navigating the Wholesale Market 42:50

3M ago42:50

42:50

How can small farms compete in a wholesale market dominated by large agricultural businesses? On this episode, Michael is joined by Cole Mazariegos-Anastassiou who co-runs Brisa Ranch in California's Pescadero area. Together with his farm partners, their farm offers a variety of crops grown regeneratively on ecologically rich farmland for mainly lo…

801
273. Theresa Podoll on Sowing Resilience with Organic Seed Production 51:18

4M ago51:18

51:18

How many plants does it take to get a pound of tomato seeds? On this episode we’re joined by Theresa Podoll from Prairie Road Organic Seed in Fullerton, North Dakota. Since 1997, Theresa and her husband, Dan, have been passionate about providing resilient, organic seed varieties with a focus on taste and abundance for their customers. Tune in to he…

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272. Jeremy Kaufman on the Impact of Agroforestry on Farming 47:24

4M ago47:24

47:24

Can agroforestry boost farm profitability? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jeremy Kaufman who is Chief of Operations at Propagate, a leader in Agroforestry. Along with his team, Jeremy is fully committed to integrating agroforestry into farming to increase farm profits, decrease erosion and nutrient loss, and pr…

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271. Amy Fewell on Herbalism, Health and Homesteading 46:11

4M ago46:11

46:11

Are you looking for more community and education on homesteading? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Amy Fewell, who is the visionary behind Homesteaders of America. As a published author, herbalist, and modern-day milkmaid, Amy nurtures her passion for self-sufficiency on her family’s farm in the Blue Ridge Mounta…

1
270. Tim Joseph on the Grass-fed Dairy Revolution 45:48

4M ago45:48

45:48

How long do you think it takes to get a cow from grain fed to fully grass-fed? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Tim Joseph, the pioneering founder of Maple Hill Creamery, the largest 100% regenerative, grass-fed organic dairy farm in the U.S. After leaving his corporate job, Tim positioned Maple Hill at the foref…

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269: Alexis Dragovich on Milling a New Path in Grain Farming 20:55

5M ago20:55

20:55

What are the unique challenges of growing and milling your own grains? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Alexis Dragovich, co-operator of Mud Run Farms in northeast Ohio. What started out as a 1st generation dairy farm has turned into a father daughter team working hard to make certified organic grains and fresh s…

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268. Jodi Roebuck on Mastering the Elements on a New Zealand Market Farm 52:00

5M ago52:00

52:00

How does your local climate influence your agricultural decisions? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jodi Roebuck who is the trailblazing market gardener and mentor at Roebuck Farm in Taranaki, New Zealand. With over two decades of experience, Jodi guides fellow growers toward more economically viable farming prac…

1
Episode 114 - How Adding On Farm Processing Builds a Better Business Model in Western NY 53:41

5M ago53:41

53:41

In this episode, I talk with Joe Blakeslee about his farm in western New York and how adding on farm processing has helped his business model be stronger. This is an approach growing in popularity among small farms. Also, join us for discussion of all things pastured pig on our new facebook group, The Pastured Pig. https://www.facebook.com/groups/t…

1
267. Brad Russell on Reviving Chestnut Farming in the US 29:21

5M ago29:21

29:21

What unique challenges and rewards come with chestnut farming? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Brad Russell of Chestnuts in the Ozarks in Omaha, Arkansas. Brad’s lifelong respect for nature along with his dedication to sustainable agriculture has guided him and his wife, Sandy, to revive and sustain the long-for…

1
266. Ann Accetta-Scott on Embracing Homesteading and Food Preservation 1:03:07

5M ago1:03:07

1:03:07

How do you take your homestead from beginner to profitable? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Ann Accetta-Scott, a dedicated first-generation homesteader and the author behind "The Farm Girl's Guide to Preserving the Harvest." While managing her family farm in Middle Tennessee, Ann shares her journey from self-tau…

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265. Michael Kilpatrick on his Top Takeaways from the Vegetable Summit 22:40

6M ago22:40

22:40

Are you ready to take your vegetable farming to the next level? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael shares about this year’s Thriving Farmer Summit and this year is all about Vegetables. The Summit is a free event happening January 12-14th and features a lineup of expert speakers covering topics from fertilizer-free farming meth…

1
Episode 113 - Progress with on Farm Processing 47:24

6M ago47:24

47:24

In this episode, I speak with Kyle Perreault about his on farm processing and the progress he has made since we last spoke. Also, join us for discussion of all things pastured pig on our new facebook group, The Pastured Pig. https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepasturedpig We made it to 20 patrons on Patreon which allows us to expand the Pasture Pig …

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264. Michael and Savannah Kilpatrick on a Farm Year in Review 50:07

6M ago50:07

50:07

Do you take the time to reflect on the past year of your farm? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by his wife, Savannah. Together, they chat about how this past year went at their farm in Ohio called The Farm on Central. From building a farm store to strawberries and sourdough, they share the up's and down's of 2023. …

1
Episode 112 - Pastured Pig Operation with Asian Heritage Hogs?? 52:27

6M ago52:27

52:27

In this episode, I speak with Jordy Buck from Michigan. He is exploring a niche marketing with Asian Heritage Hogs (Potbellies) on his farm. It is interesting to hear how he is raising out these smaller pigs with very little inputs. Also, join us for discussion of all things pastured pig on our new facebook group, The Pastured Pig. https://www.face…

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263. Melissa Smith on the Delights and Demands of Growing Dahlias 56:17

6M ago56:17

56:17

What lessons can Southern gardeners learn from Melissa Smith's experience with dahlias? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Melissa Smith of Fraylick Farm who is a passionate gardener, dahlia enthusiast, and experienced flower farmer. As a Clemson certified Master Gardener and a self-taught expert in the art of cut …

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Episode 111 - Transitioning Away from Managlitsa 1:06:31

6M ago1:06:31

1:06:31

In this episode, I revisit with Rob Dowdle of Dowdle Family Farm to discuss his last two seasons of raising our Mangalitsa as a production hog and the challenges he faced. Rob shares lessons learned and how he is transitioning to be more profitable. Also, join us for discussion of all things pastured pig on our new facebook group, The Pastured Pig.…

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262. Jeff Bednar on Building a Successful Food Hub 45:24

6M ago45:24

45:24

What can you learn from a food hub model of connecting local producers with chefs and consumers? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jeff Bednar, the innovative force behind Profound Foods in North Texas. Since 2014, Jeff and his wife, Lee, have been revolutionizing local food systems and specializing in hydroponic …

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Episode 110 - The Family that Works Together... 1:02:53

6M ago1:02:53

1:02:53

In this episode, I sit down with Allie Jones from Spring Fed Family Farm in Oklahoma. Allie shares how she is managing to balance raising kids and running a farm with the help of her family who lives on the property with her. This is a great story how family can work together to build something great. https://www.springfedfamily.farm/ Also, join us…

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261. Laura Fernandez on Sowing Seeds of Sustainability with Garden Design 42:18

6M ago42:18

42:18

In what ways can transforming our front yards into edible landscapes impact our local food systems and communities? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Laura Fernandez who is the visionary behind Front Yard Foods in South Carolina. Laura's journey began with a simple garden at the age of 12 and has blossomed into a …

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260. Megan Neubauer on Transforming Farms with U-Pick Agritourism 44:26

7M ago44:26

44:26

Ever thought about shifting your farm to a U-Pick model? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is diving into the world of agritourism with Megan Neubauer of Pure Land Farm located in McKinney, Texas. Megan literally wrote the book on pick-your-own farming and her farming journey offers invaluable insights into transforming local …

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259. Billy Bond on Value-Added Farming and Permaculture Practices 36:43

7M ago36:43

36:43

How does the concept of value-added thinking apply to both farming and our daily lives? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Billy Bond, owner of Perma Pastures Farm, located in North Carolina. From hands-on workshops to online education, Billy and his family share their knowledge and love for permaculture. When he’s…

1
258. Jacob Towe on Building a Community-Focused Farm 38:15

7M ago38:15

38:15

What challenges and opportunities arise when starting a farm and retail venture from scratch? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jacob Towe of Jubilee Farms in Pauline, South Carolina. After helping with his family’s Christmas tree farm from an early age, Jacob launched his own regenerative farm as well as a local …

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257. Suzanne Karreman on the Grass-Roots of Sustainable Dairy Farming 53:14

7M ago53:14

53:14

Is it the grass or the genetics that helps most with grass-fed dairy farming? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Suzanne Karreman of Reverence Farms in North Carolina. Along with her veterinarian husband, Dr. Hubert, they run a 400-acre, 80-cow grass-fed dairy. Their farm is a thriving polyculture where animals are…

1
256. Julie Olberding on Growing Award-Winning Garlic 52:28

8M ago52:28

52:28

Do you know what all goes into garlic growing? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Julie Olberding of Rustic Roots Farm in Alexandria, Minnesota. Their farm balances natural resources with a blend of innovative techniques and traditional methods to produce the highest quality products for their customers. They speci…

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255. Tim and Sophia Eng on Cooking and Community Cultivation 40:46

8M ago40:46

40:46

What are ways you can get involved in your local community? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Tim and Sophia Eng who are both first-generation Asian American farmers who left their Silicon Valley careers to start a 5-acre micro farm in northeast Tennessee. Tim is a homestead-focused realtor and Sophia is the autho…

1
254. Adam Martin on Reviving Sustainable Beekeeping 50:53

8M ago50:53

50:53

Can going back to more sustainable ways be the key to modern beekeeping success? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Adam Martin of Bee Kept Farm in middle Tennessee. Along with his wife, Leslie, Adam got into beekeeping using commonly taught methods. After an unsuccessful first year, they decided to think “outside …

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Episode 109 - African Swine Fever - Is it Coming to the US? 26:55

8M ago26:55

26:55

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Rosemary Sifford from the USDA concerning African Swine Fever and the threat it poses to American hog producers. Keeping biosecurity measures in place is ideal as the main line of defense against the spread of this disease. USDA Website: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/pests-diseases/asf/asf EPISODE SPONS…

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253. Josh and Rebecca Tickell on Regenerative Filmmaking for a Better Planet 39:20

8M ago39:20

39:20

Can “regenerative filmmaking” help with our current agricultural challenges? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Josh and Rebecca Tickell who are the filmmakers of the recently released documentary Common Ground. This highly anticipated follow-up to their first film Kiss the Ground is an urgent call to action and of…

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Episode 108 - Pig and Leaf and American Duroc and All Kinds of Things Going On 52:36

9M ago52:36

52:36

In this episode, I talk with Cliff Davis Of Pig and Leaf farm in Tennessee. Cliff has a comprehensive farming operation going on with some great regenerative processes. Check him out on Facebook and Instagram @pigandleaf @davisamericanduroc EPISODE SPONSOR: Giltek EDC knives - https://gil-tek.com/?wpam_id=2 Be sure to check out our new Classified a…

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The Efficient Homestead Podcasts

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