Explore every episode of the podcast Homestead-ish
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 2 Finale, Life Happened: Kristin’s Camper Era & Devon’s Big Book Launch | 06 oct. 2026 | 00:33:12 | |
We’re back! And, well… life happened. | |||
| Thinking About Ducks? Start Here with Metzer Farms | 03 juil. 2026 | 00:59:18 | |
If you've ever thought about adding ducks to your homestead, this episode is for you. We sit down with Marc and Katy Metzer of Metzer Farms, one of America's premier family-owned waterfowl hatcheries, to talk all things ducks, geese, and waterfowl. We cover everything from choosing the right breed and setting up your brooder to keeping ducks healthy, managing water without creating a muddy mess, and whether ducks really need a pond. Along the way, we discuss the advantages of ordering directly from a hatchery, how ducks can benefit your garden, and the important conservation work Metzer Farms is doing to preserve rare waterfowl breeds. Whether you're dreaming about your very first waterfowl or already have a flock waddling around your backyard, this conversation is packed with practical advice, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of duck enthusiasm. What You'll Learn
Connect with Metzer Farms Follow Metzer Farms on IG @metzerfarms Visit www.metzerfarms.com for a wealth of information and resources including What Duck Breed is Right for You? Connect with Homestead-ish Follow Homestead-ish on IG @homesteadish_pod Connect with Kristin @growingpaines_ Connect with Devon @devonballardhudson
🌱 As always, stay curious and a little bit wild! | |||
| Sourdough Science: What Dr. Margaret Wallen's Research Reveals About Your Starter | 18 juin 2026 | 00:59:50 | |
What exactly is happening inside a sourdough starter? Why do some starters seem to have their own personality? Does a 100-year-old starter really make better bread? And what role do billions of invisible microbes play in creating the flavors, aromas, and rise we love in sourdough? In this episode of Homestead-ish, we sit down with Dr. Margaret Wallen, Assistant Professor of Biology at Indiana University Southeast, to explore the fascinating science behind sourdough fermentation. What began with her family's century-old sourdough starter, affectionately named "Baby," has evolved into a multi-year research project investigating the microbial communities that make each sourdough culture unique. Together, we explore the relationship between wild yeast and bacteria, why no two starters are exactly alike, and what Dr. Wallen's research reveals about how sourdough cultures establish themselves and maintain stability over time. We also discuss practical tips for home bakers, including how to revive sluggish starters, the role of whole wheat flour, and common misconceptions about fermentation. Beyond bread, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on our relationship with the microbial world and why understanding bacteria may be one of the keys to building healthier people, healthier food systems, and a healthier planet. Connect With Dr. Margaret Wallen Learn more about Dr. Wallen's research and how to connect HERE. Connect with Homestead-ish Follow Homestead-ish on IG @homesteadish_pod Connect with Kristin @growingpaines_ Connect with Devon @devonballardhudson 🌱 As always, stay curious and a little bit wild! | |||
| Seed Saving, Joy, and the Stories Hidden in Every Seed with Noel of Homestead Culture | 04 juin 2026 | 01:20:06 | |
If you're looking for a quick list of seed-saving hacks, this probably isn't that episode. In a world that encourages us to consume information as quickly as possible, today's conversation invites you to slow down. Noel of Homestead Culture joins us for a thoughtful discussion about seed saving, homesteading, and what it means to develop a deeper relationship with the plants that feed us. While you'll definitely walk away with practical tips for saving seeds in your own garden, we hope you'll leave with something even more valuable: a glimpse into the joy, wonder, and reverence that Noel and his family bring to this timeless practice. Together we explore: 🌱 How Noel's family transitioned from suburban California to a homesteading life in Southern Oregon 🌱 The story behind Homestead Culture and how a simple fascination with seeds grew into a seed-saving business 🌱 Beginner-friendly crops for new seed savers 🌱 The differences between heirloom, hybrid, and open-pollinated seeds 🌱 Common seed-saving mistakes and how to avoid them 🌱 Finding joy, abundance, and connection through homesteading This episode is a reminder that some knowledge can't be rushed. Like a good meal, a thriving garden, or a season spent tending plants, some conversations are meant to be savored. Whether you're an experienced gardener or have never saved a seed in your life, we think you'll enjoy spending an hour in Noel's world. Homestead Culture Resources Connect with Homestead Culture on IG @homesteadculture Free Crash Course into Seed Saving Seed Resources Our Seed Offerings
Connect with Homestead-ish Follow Homestead-ish on IG @homesteadish_pod Connect with Kristin @growingpaines_ Connect with Devon @devonballardhudson 🌱 As always, stay curious and a little bit wild! | |||
| S2, E7: From Suburbia to Farm School: Raising Meat Rabbits with Shelly Tyler of Fiddlewood Farm & School | 21 mai 2026 | 00:46:34 | |
This week on Homestead-ish, we’re joined by our friend Shelly Tyler of Fiddlewood Farm & Forest School in Owensboro, Kentucky for a conversation that goes far beyond meat rabbits. Content Note: In this episode, we have a candid conversation about raising meat rabbits for food, including some detailed discussion of the harvesting and processing process. We know this topic may not be for everyone, so we wanted to give sensitive listeners a heads up. Shelly shares her unexpected journey from physical therapist and functional medicine practitioner to homesteader, forest school founder, and rabbit raiser. Together, we explore how slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and learning forgotten skills can transform not only our health, but the way we live and raise our families. We also dive deep into the realities of raising meat rabbits — from setup and care to harvesting, processing, and the emotional complexity of raising your own food. This episode contains honest discussion about animal processing and homestead meat production. Follow Shelly and Fiddlewood Farm & Forest School for more from her homestead journey! Connect With Us Follow Shelly Tyler of Fiddlewood Farm & School @fiddlewood.farm Connect with Kristin @growingpaines_ Connect with Devon @devonballardhudson Follow Homestead-ish @homesteadish_pod | |||
| S2, E6: Backyard Climate Activist, 7 Ways to Heal the Planet from Home (a mini-episode) | 11 mai 2026 | 00:12:41 | |
This week’s episode is a little different. After missing our first Thursday release in two full seasons (life happens!), Devon hops on solo for a brief in-between episode to share a personal update and an exciting glimpse into her forthcoming book, Backyard Climate Activist: Healing the Planet from Home. Drawing from a recent Substack essay, Devon explores the heart behind the Backyard Climate Activist framework and shares the seven “R’s” that shape the book’s philosophy:
In a world where the climate crisis can feel overwhelming and impossible to solve alone, this episode is a reminder that meaningful change often begins much closer to home than we think. We’ll be back next week with a full episode and guest interview, but in the meantime, we hope this conversation leaves you feeling inspired, grounded, and hopeful. Mentioned in this episode:
Connect with us: Follow along for more conversations about homesteading, sustainability, reconnecting with nature, and creating a more hopeful future from right where we are.
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| When Western Medicine Isn’t Enough: Blending Cannabis, Aromatherapy, and Western Medicine with Michele Finn of Jubilee of Wellness | 23 avr. 2026 | 00:53:31 | |
What happens when modern medicine isn’t enough, and you’re willing to explore everything to help someone you love? In this episode of Homestead-ish, we sit down with Jubilee of Wellness founder Michele Finn—aromatherapist, CBD wellness guide, caregiver, and now Devon’s neighbor at The District—to talk about what it really looks like to blend holistic healing with Western healthcare. Michele shares the deeply personal story of caring for her mother through an 11-year battle with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and how that journey led her into the world of aromatherapy and cannabis-based wellness. Together, we explore how essential oils, CBD, THC, and CBG can support the body, the importance of proper education and safety, and why healing doesn’t have to be an either/or conversation. One of the most powerful moments in this episode is Michele’s story of a critical turning point in her mother’s illness when traditional treatments had reached their limits, and cannabis helped restore comfort, function, and dignity in a moment that felt nearly hopeless. This conversation is a reminder that healing isn’t always linear and sometimes the most meaningful care comes from combining tools, not choosing sides. Connect With Us Visit Michele locally at Jubilee of Wellness at The District Artisan Market & Patio and at the New Albany Farmers Market Shop online: JubileeofWellness.com About Dr. Ethan Russo Connect with Kristin @growingpaines_ Connect with Devon @devonballardhudson Follow Homestead-ish @homesteadish_pod This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or wellness routine. | |||
| S2, E4: We Built This Life…But Can We Ever Leave It? Homestead updates, kombucha brewing, chickens & the reality of finding a farm sitter | 09 avr. 2026 | 00:52:03 | |
There’s a version of homesteading we all dream about...slow mornings, fresh food, a life rooted in intention. And then there’s the part no one really talks about: What happens when you need to leave? In this catch-up episode, we’re sharing what life looks like on our homesteads right now, from scaling up kombucha production and experimenting with no-dig potatoes, to navigating loss in the flock and the very real challenge of finding someone to care for your animals when you’re away. It’s part life update, part honest conversation, and part figuring-it-out-as-we-go. 🐓 In This Episode:
🌿 Connect & Resources Connect with Kristin @growingpaines_ Connect with Devon @devonballardhudson Follow Homestead-ish @homesteadish_pod Purchase the Homesteading as Resistance Tee on Etsy Attend the Land, Love, & Self-Reliance Festival | |||
| S2, E3: Gardening When You Have No Time (But Still Want to Grow Food) with Jess Robison | 26 mars 2026 | 00:52:18 | |
In this episode of Homestead-ish, we’re joined again by Jess Robison of Acton Food Forest, who returns to share how her approach to gardening has evolved in a new season of life, now as a mom of three! Instead of trying to “do it all,” Jess has leaned into a more time-efficient, realistic, and sustainable way to grow food, one that works with her life, not against it. We talk about what it looks like to let go of perfection in the garden and embrace practices that are not only easier, but often more aligned with nature. Time-efficient gardening isn’t just about convenience, it’s about accessibility. When we remove the pressure to do gardening “perfectly,” we open the door for more people to participate in growing food, reconnecting with nature, and becoming part of the solution! 🌿 Connect & Resources Follow Jess on Instagram @actonfoodforest or TikTok @actonfoodforest Weeds and What They Tell Us by Ehrenfried E. Pfeiffer Connect with Kristin @growingpaines_ Connect with Devon @devonballardhudson Follow Homestead-ish @homesteadish_pod Share this episode with a friend who “doesn’t have time” to garden! | |||
| S2, E2: Seed Starting & Soil Blocking Tips & Tricks! | 11 mars 2026 | 01:02:39 | |
Spring is waking up on the homestead, and in this episode Devon and Kristin share what’s happening in their backyards, from goat breeding updates to welcoming new baby chicks. Then they dig into one of the most exciting parts of the gardening season: starting seeds indoors. The conversation focuses on soil blocking, a method of seed starting that eliminates plastic waste and encourages strong root development. Devon and Kristin share their different approaches to soil blocking, the equipment they use, and how beginners can get started without investing in expensive tools. They also discuss lighting setups, heat mats, watering techniques, seed depth, and when to start seeds in their Zone 7A climate. Along the way, they share practical lessons learned from years of trial and error...including why starting seeds too early can sometimes cause more problems than it solves. Whether you’re a first-time gardener or a seasoned grower looking to refine your system, this episode offers simple, practical tips to help your seedlings thrive! 🌿 Connect with Us Devon on IG @devonballardhudson Kristin on IG @growingpaines_ ⭐If You Loved This Episode Please follow, rate, and share with a like-minded friend. It helps this small but mighty podcast grow. | |||
| Season 2 Kickoff: Planting Onions — An Act of Hope & Resistance | 25 févr. 2026 | 00:43:26 | |
Season 2 is here! 🌱 After a long winter, Kristin and Devon are back behind the mic reflecting on what the season has taught them and why small acts of homesteading can feel especially meaningful in uncertain times. In this episode, they share honest updates from their homesteads, including:
Together, they explore the tension many of us are feeling right now — wanting to stay informed and engaged while also protecting our peace and capacity. This conversation is an invitation to: ✨ find rest without guilt ✨ tend something small and meaningful ✨ and remember that hope often looks like showing up anyway As Madeleine L’Engle wrote, “Planting onions that spring was an act of faith in the future…” We’re glad you’re here for Season 2. 💛 🌿 Connect with Us Basil & Blossom Co’s Kombucha Kitchen ⭐ If You Loved This Episode Please follow, rate, and share with a like-minded friend. It helps this small but mighty podcast grow. | |||
| BONUS Episode! Beginner Mushroom Growing & Gift Guide: Hooser Forager on Kits Anyone Can Grow! | 01 déc. 2025 | 00:49:39 | |
In this bonus episode, we sit down with Tim Frost of Hoosier Forager, a certified wild edible mushroom ID expert, to explore the surprisingly simple world of growing mushrooms at home. Tim breaks down the easiest kits for beginners (hello, oysters and lion’s mane!), explains how indoor cultivation actually works, and shares practical tips on harvesting, cooking, and even making tinctures. We also talk about why mushroom grow kits make some of the best sustainable gifts—for kids, classrooms, and curious adults alike. If you’ve ever been mushroom-curious, intimidated by foraging, or eager to get more nutrients growing in your kitchen, this episode is your starting point! Resources Mentioned
Follow along on Instagram: @homesteadish_pod @devonballardhudson @growingpaines_ | |||
| BONUS Episode! Devon's Opening a Community Kombucha Kitchen (Plus, How You Can Be a Part of It) | 22 oct. 2025 | 00:22:25 | |
This week, we’re popping into your feed with something a little different — a bonus episode all about Devon’s Community Kombucha Kitchen Kickstarter and the big leap she’s taking with Basil & Blossom Co.
👉 Love Kombucha? Follow the Basil & Blossom Co Business Page on Facebook | |||
| E12 Season Finale: Common Ground with Amy Bauer of Front Yard Veggies | 25 sept. 2025 | 01:03:28 | |
In our Season 1 finale of Homestead-ish, we welcome special guest Amy Bauer (@frontyardveggies) for a wide-ranging conversation on sustainable living, homemaking, and the shifting cultural landscape of homesteading. We kick things off with a lighthearted chat about Goodwill bins thrifting strategies and our mutual admiration for THE QUEEN, Martha Stewart. We especially dive headfirst into the shift in the political landscape we’ve seen in the sustainable living/homesteading space, including everything from scratch cooking and gardening as forms of empowerment and resistance, to how the wellness and "crunchy" lifestyles sometimes get co-opted into fear-based or alt-right narratives, Amy's personal philosophy on sustainable living, and so much more! This episode closes with reflections on Season 1 — what we’ve learned, where the movement is headed, and how we can stay rooted in purpose, curiosity, and connection even in polarizing times. What’s Next We’re taking a short hiatus before Season 2, but you can catch up on past episodes and follow us on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and plenty of sustainable living inspiration. What topics do you want to see for Season 2? Drop us a text at the link at the top of the show notes! Links & Mentions
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| E11: Story Time with Uncle Denny! Entertaining Stories & Wisdom from Homestead-ish's Fav Uncle | 04 sept. 2025 | 00:49:55 | |
In this special episode, Kristin sits down with her 81-year-old great Uncle Denny to reminisce about farm life through the ages. Uncle Denny is a natural storyteller, and his tales will have you laughing, learning, and feeling inspired by the simplicity (and ingenuity!) of old-time homesteading. From the story of transporting a cow in the back of his VW Beetle, to how he first got into chicken keeping more than 70 years ago when he brought some chicks home from his 4th grade classroom, Uncle Denny reminds us that homesteading wisdom never goes out of style. Along the way, he shares his tried-and-true chicken keeping advice and practical gardening tips that have stood the test of time. This episode is full of humor, heart, and timeless lessons for anyone who loves the homestead-ish life. Pull up a chair, grab your coffee, and get ready for a good laugh and some homestead inspiration from Uncle Denny’s farm! Let’s Connect!
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| Life Seasons & Living Seasonally: A Candid Convo with Co-Hosts Kristin & Devon | 21 août 2025 | 00:53:22 | |
🎉 Episode 10! 🎉 This week, we dive into:
Tune in, laugh along our “bunny trails,” and celebrate the beauty (and honesty) of messy, seasonal rhythms on the homestead. Let’s Connect!
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| E9: Reconnecting with the Land with Bundle Sticks Farm | 07 août 2025 | 01:00:28 | |
In this episode, we sit down with the brilliant and inspiring duo behind Bundle Sticks Farm, a small but mighty craft farm and education center in Southern Indiana. Elizabeth Tobey and Brian Geier bring a wealth of knowledge, intention, and soul to everything they do—from growing craft materials and raising sheep to hosting crafting/educational gatherings that reconnect people to the land. Together, we explore:
About Our Guests: Brian Geier (he/him) is a history nerd, former professional sauerkraut maker, and passionate farmer who will always say yes to getting in water. He grew up in the woods of Wayne County, Indiana, and is largely of German descent with a family tree that traces back to New Albany & Lanesville in the late 1800's and to the Rhine River area in what is now Germany before that. His last name, Geier, means vulture in an old Germanic language, a fact that he is most proud of. Let’s Connect!
If you loved this episode, share it with your friends and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Tag us @homesteadish_pod on Instagram—we love seeing your homestead-ish adventure! | |||
| E8: Kombucha, Kefir, and Kraut, Oh My! Why you should be fermenting and how to get started | 24 juil. 2025 | 00:36:32 | |
In this flavor-packed episode of Homestead-ish, Kristin turns the mic around and interviews our very own fermented foodie and co-host of this podcast, Devon! Devon shares how she first fell down the rabbit hole of fermentation, what fermentation actually is, and why it’s about so much more than tangy veggies and fizzy drinks. In advance we ask that you please pardon our pickle innuendos! We talk:
Whether you’re new to homesteading or already have a countertop full of bubbling jars, this conversation will leave you inspired, empowered, and maybe just a little hungry. Let’s Connect!
If you loved this episode, share it with your ferment-curious friends and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Tag us @homesteadish_pod on Instagram—we love seeing your bubbling jars and backyard adventures! | |||
| E7: Homstead-ish Kids! Summer Updates and Candid Convos with our Kiddos | 10 juil. 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
In this fun and heartfelt episode of Homestead-ish, Devon and Kristin sit down to chat about what’s happening on their homesteads this summer—from garden wins, to a new livestock guardian puppy, to pest problems (including a simple, game-changing squash bug egg hack you’ll want to try!). But the real stars of this episode? Our kids! With five boys between us, ages 2 to 10, we hand over the mic to hear what life on a homestead is really like—from the good, the gross, to the adorable. We also open the floor to YOU—our amazing listeners! We’re gearing up for a special episode with Kristin’s Uncle Denny, a lifelong farmer and homesteader, and we want your questions. What do you want to ask someone who’s been growing food and raising animals for decades? Tune in for summer updates, sweet (and chaotic) kid moments, and the perfect mix of homestead-ish honesty and humor. Check out homesteadish_pod on IG, and as always you can find Kristin at growingpaines_ and Devon at devonballardhudson on IG! | |||
| E6: Ish Happens: A Conversation with Jess Robison of Acton Food Forest | 26 juin 2025 | 00:59:55 | |
In this episode of Homestead-ish, we’re joined by our second guest and kindred spirit, the fantastic Jess Robison of Acton Food Forest, whose homesteading journey was sparked by a single, sun-ripened tomato. We explore how that one small gift turned into a multi-passionate lifestyle. In our lively conversation we discuss everything from ADHD as a superpower, to what a food forest actually is, our "why" as politically progressive homesteaders, how to successfully navigate the infamous Goodwill bins, and more! Follow Jess on Instagram: @actonfoodforest Check out homesteadish_pod on IG, and as always you can find Kristin at growingpaines_ and Devon at devonballardhudson on IG! | |||
| E5: Hot Takes, Our Homestead Festival Recap | 12 juin 2025 | 01:01:29 | |
Homestead-ish hits the road and attends the Homestead Festival in Columbia, TN. An annual two-day event, the Homestead Festival combines music with meaningful homesteading-related experiences. It features speakers, demonstrations, and vendors focused on sustainable living, including homesteading, farming, and related skills like herbal remedies and animal husbandry. In this episode, recorded on the way home with our hearts full and our brains buzzing, we share a candid recap of the weekend: a play-by-play of our experience, standout speakers, surprising takeaways, hilarious mishaps, lessons learned, and more. Listen and find out where Homestead-ish aligns (and doesn't align) with the mainstream Homestead movement! Thinking of going next year? We've got you covered with tips on how to prepare and get the most out of the experience. Links:
Check out homesteadish_pod on IG, and as always you can find Kristin at growingpaines_ and Devon at devonballardhudson on IG! | |||
| E4: Beekeeping Beginnings- Learn from Kristin's First Year as a New Beek | 29 mai 2025 | 00:48:48 | |
Sometimes the best way to learn a new skill is from someone who has recently taught themselves! In this episode Devon interviews Kristin on her first year as a "beek" (that's beekeeper slang for new beekeeper, lol). Kristin shares her lessons learned and things to consider when considering keeping bees including equipment must haves vs "nice to haves", what she wishes she would have known getting started, and more! Resources: Complete Beekeeping Short Course As always you can connect with Kristin on IG @growingpaines_ and Devon @devonballardhudson | |||
| E3: Wild and Edible! A Conversation with Foraging Expert, Tim of Hoosier Forager | 15 mai 2025 | 00:59:43 | |
Kristin and Devon chat with their very first pod guest, wild edible mushroom identification expert, Tim of Hoosier Forager! Tim is a wealth of knowledge, and no subject is off limits. Tune in to learn how to get started foraging, how to forage safely and responsibly, Tim's favorite foraging finds, how foraging might help us heal our planet, and more! Connect with Tim on IG @hoosierforager Shop Tim's foraged goods at Hoosier Forager Outpost Love Tim's content? Buy him coffee! A Few of Tim's Super Helpful Instagram Posts (which we reference in the pod): As always you can connect with Kristin on IG @growingpaines_ and Devon @devonballardhudson | |||
| E2: Spring Homestead Updates & Sustainable Gardening Hacks | 01 mai 2025 | 00:49:37 | |
It's the most wonderful time of the year...for gardeners and homesteaders!! After a long winter, Devon and Kristin discuss what's going on around the homestead and share their top gardening sustainability hacks. Grow your own food more sustainably from seed to harvest! Plus, we discuss our plans to attend the Homestead Festival in Columbia, TN this June!! Connect with us: Follow our podcast on IG: @homesteadish_pod Connect with Kristin on IG: @growingpaines_ Connect with Devon on IG: @devonballardhudson As mentioned in this episode, check out @blossomandbranchfarm on IG What kind of composting is right for your home? Take the quiz: What Kind of Composting is Best for Your Home? | |||
| Homestead-ish E1: Who is Homestead-ish and What Are We About? | 17 avr. 2025 | 00:23:17 | |
Welcome to the Homestead-ish Podcast! Join us - Kristin and Devon - as we reconnect with nature and each other through the homesteading movement. In every episode, we share our journey of rediscovering the skills of our great-grandparents, uncovering sustainable practices, and learning how to heal our planet one step at a time. Perfect for non-traditional enthusiasts eager to cultivate traditional skills and meaningful connections, this podcast offers a space for everyone to engage. Tune in and become a part of our community dedicated to preserving our natural resources for generations to come. Don't miss out—subscribe now and start your homestead-ish adventure with us! Follow our podcast on IG: @homesteadish_pod Connect with Devon on IG: @devonballardhudson Connect with Kristin on IG: @growingpaines | |||