

Homesteading for Beginners
Mona Weathers
This is the Homesteading for Beginners podcast and I’m Mona Weathers, your homesteading mentor and coach. I’m here to encourage you to pursue your homesteading goals with the right mindset in a way that is healthy for you, your family and your community. If you desire to establish a solid foundation for your homesteading journey then you are in the right place. Join me as I share stories from the past 20 years of my own journey as well as practical and actionable steps you can take to START and MAINTAIN a healthy homestead.
I'm passionate about teaching beginner homesteaders how to start a homestead that aligns with their goals for self-sufficiency in a way that is sustainable and profitable. If you are ready to get started today, download the free Homesteading for Beginners checklist.
https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/checklist/
I'm passionate about teaching beginner homesteaders how to start a homestead that aligns with their goals for self-sufficiency in a way that is sustainable and profitable. If you are ready to get started today, download the free Homesteading for Beginners checklist.
https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/checklist/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 13, 2024 • 17min
109. Should Homesteaders be on social media? Why I quit and other personal updates.
In this episode, I share the personal challenges and transformative decisions that led me to leave social media and focus on my mental and emotional well-being. From the joy of having my family live with us to the heartbreak of losing my beloved horse, this summer has been a rollercoaster. Learn why I've slowed down my podcast frequency, my plans for vlogging, and how I'm rediscovering creativity without the constant distraction of social media. If you're keen on sustainable homesteading or just need inspiration to unplug and reconnect with yourself, this episode is for you! This is episode 109 of the Homesteading for Beginners Podcast. Watch and Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gGiWyZH2PnM Get the Free Homesteading for Beginners Checklist: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/checklist/ Homesteading for Beginners workbook: https://healthyhomesteading.com/workbook Shop Homesteading Supplies on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/farmer_mona 101 Homestead Income Ideas List: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/homesteadincome Homestead Income Plan Group (FACEBOOK): https://www.facebook.com/groups/homesteadincomeplan Mona's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmer_mona/ Homesteading for Beginners YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@homesteadingforbeginners 00:00 Introduction to Homesteading and Personal Reflections 01:11 Challenges and Changes in Life 02:46 Family Dynamics and Emotional Adjustments 05:29 Loss and Grieving a Beloved Horse 07:09 New Beginnings and Homestead Updates 07:41 Detoxing from Social Media 11:19 Future Plans and Creative Pursuits 13:36 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Aug 21, 2024 • 44min
108. Raising Rabbits for Meat & Fertilizer with Laura Cox {Rebroadcast}
Laura Cox, an experienced homesteader, shares her journey on embracing rabbits as valuable assets for meat and fertilizer. She discusses the transition from skepticism to sustainable rabbit farming, highlighting the emotional connections formed with these animals. Listeners learn practical tips on housing, breeding, and caring for rabbits, as well as culinary insights on processing rabbit meat. Cox also emphasizes the ecological benefits of rabbit husbandry and the fulfillment of knowing where your food comes from.

Aug 2, 2024 • 19min
107. Chickens 101: Pros and Cons of Keeping Chickens for Beginners {Rebroadcast}
In this episode of the Homesteading for Beginners podcast, host Mona Weathers dives into the essentials of chicken ownership. From their amusing dinosaur-like demeanor to the pros and cons of keeping them, Mona shares her years of experience and a wealth of insights. She discusses the initial enthusiasm of owning chickens, occasional challenges like sudden deaths due to predators, the constant cleaning up of chicken poop, and the cost of feed. On a positive note, she highlights the dietary benefits of fresh eggs, natural pest control, and the joy chickens bring with their entertaining personalities. Whether you’re considering chickens for your homestead or looking for ways to improve your existing flock care, this episode offers valuable and practical advice. This is episode 107 of the Homesteading for Beginners podcast with Mona Weathers. Mona's Info: Free Homesteading for Beginners Checklist: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/checklist/ Homesteading for Beginners workbook: https://healthyhomesteading.com/workbook Shop Homesteading Supplies on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/farmer_mona 101 Homestead Income Ideas List: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/homesteadincome Homestead Income Plan Group (FACEBOOK): https://www.facebook.com/groups/homesteadincomeplan Mona's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmer_mona/ Homesteading for Beginners YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@homesteadingforbeginners 00:00 Introduction to Chickens and Homesteading 00:41 My Family's Journey with Chickens 01:36 Pros and Cons of Chicken Ownership 02:25 Cons of Owning Chickens 09:22 Pros of Owning Chickens 16:46 The Value of Slow Food 19:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jul 24, 2024 • 41min
106. Quail are the New Chicken with Jasmin Bass {Rebroadcast}
In this episode of the Homesteading for Beginners podcast, host Mona Weathers delves into the benefits of raising quail for meat and eggs, especially for those with small-scale or suburban homesteads. Special guest Jasmine Bass shares her journey of transitioning to quail raising, discussing their nutritional perks, ease of care, and space efficiency. Jasmine recounts her struggles with chicken egg allergies and how quail eggs proved to be a healthier alternative. They also explore different housing options, feed strategies, and potential challenges with quail. This informative chat is perfect for both new homesteaders and those considering adding quail to their homestead. Plus, learn about Quail 101, an extensive online course aimed at helping beginners master quail raising. Watch the video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nbDMtVjZbpY Connect with Jasmine here: Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thymeandtimber/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thymeandtimberhomestead/ Self Sufficient Quail FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfsufficientquail Quail 101 Course: https://learn.quailuniversity.com/courses/quail-101?ref=e29538 Mona's Info: Free Homesteading for Beginners Checklist: http://healthyhomesteading.com/checklist Mona's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmer_mona/ Homesteading for Beginners YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadingforbeginners Listen to the podcast on your favorite podcast player: https://plinkhq.com/i/1636732326 00:00 Introduction to Quail Benefits 00:32 Homesteading Journey and Community 01:50 Meeting Jasmine Bass 03:03 Getting Started with Quail 04:00 Jasmine's Homesteading Experience 06:12 Quail Varieties and Benefits 17:47 Housing Options for Quail 21:55 Reducing Feed Waste for Quail 23:22 Cost Comparison: Quail vs. Chickens 23:59 Managing Quail Population and Feed 25:54 Supplemental Feeding for Quail 27:50 Addressing Aggression in Quail 31:12 Cons of Raising Quail 34:44 Introducing Quail University 37:50 Community and Resources for Quail Enthusiasts

Jul 11, 2024 • 59min
105. Pasture Management 101 with Cal Hardage
In this episode, we talk with Cal Hardidge, a regenerative farmer and host of the 'Grazing Grass' podcast. We delve into the principles and practices of grass-based livestock management, focusing on topics such as rotational grazing, the benefits of diverse livestock, and the importance of soil health. Cal also shares insights from his own farming journey, detailing his transition from conventional to regenerative agriculture, and offers practical advice for homesteaders and farmers with smaller acreages. We also discuss the benefits and challenges of integrating different livestock species, as well as the potential advantages of using practices like chicken tractoring and managing woodland areas with goats and pigs. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in improving pasture management and transitioning to more sustainable farming techniques. This is episode 105 of the Homesteading for Beginners podcast with Mona Weathers. Cal's Info: Website: https://grazinggrass.com Podcast: Grazing Grass Podcast Mona's Info: Free Homesteading for Beginners Checklist: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/checklist/ Homesteading for Beginners workbook: https://healthyhomesteading.com/workbook Shop Homesteading Supplies on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/farmer_mona 101 Homestead Income Ideas List: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/homesteadincome Homestead Income Plan Group (FACEBOOK): https://www.facebook.com/groups/homesteadincomeplan Mona's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmer_mona/ Homesteading for Beginners YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@homesteadingforbeginners 00:00 Introduction to Our Special Guest: Cal Hardidge 01:22 Cal's Journey into Regenerative Farming 05:25 Understanding Regenerative Agriculture 09:33 Benefits of Rotational Grazing 11:13 Diversity in Livestock for Better Pasture Management 15:57 Integrating Chickens and Managing Wooded Areas 21:10 Choosing the Right Grasses and Hay Management 30:08 Debating the Use of Chemicals in Hay 30:59 Managing Thistles and Spot Spraying 31:39 Concerns About Grazon and Manure 34:11 Rotational Grazing on Small Acreage 36:13 Setting Up Electric Fencing for Grazing 37:19 Daily vs. Weekly Rotations 46:07 Misconceptions About Regenerative Agriculture 51:55 Choosing the Right Cattle Breed 56:53 Conclusion and Contact Information

Jun 26, 2024 • 21min
104. Twenty-five Homesteading Skills You Can Start with Little to No Land
In this episode I dive into 25 practical ways to kickstart your homesteading journey, even if you have little to no land. From gardening on apartment balconies to learning animal husbandry without owning animals, I cover a variety of essential skills. I also discuss composting, preserving food, foraging, bread making, herbalism, and much more. I share my experiences and provide valuable tips on how to become more self-sufficient and sustainable. Are ready to start your homesteading journey but you're not sure exactly how to begin? The Beginner Homesteader's Starter Kit will take you through the steps you need to start your journey off on the right foot so that you can prevent homesteader burnout. This starter kit is on sale until June 30th 2024. Get 35% off by using the code: HOMESTEADSTART https://www.homesteadincomeplan.com/homesteadstart Watch this episode on YouTube and please don't forget to subscribe to my channel: https://youtu.be/Jht3vntO0mQ Get the Homesteading for Beginners checklist here >> https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/checklist/ Episdodes mentioned in this episode: Gardening: Ep.96 Turn Your Black Thumb Green with These Tips: https://sites.libsyn.com/422132/096-turn-your-gardening-black-thumb-green-with-these-tips Ep. 82 Organic Gardening with Jessica Gaige: https://sites.libsyn.com/422132/082-organic-gardening-for-beginners-with-jessica-gaige Composting: Ep. 26 Worm Farming : https://sites.libsyn.com/422132/026-homestead-income-series-worm-farming Preserving Food: Ep. 49 - Melissa K. Norris on the 9 Food Preservation Methods: https://sites.libsyn.com/422132/049-melissa-k-norris-on-the-9-food-preservation-methods Bee Keeping: Ep. 92- Natural Bee Keeping with Adam & Leslie Martin : https://sites.libsyn.com/422132/092-homesteading-community-natural-beekeeping-with-adam-leslie-martin-of-beekept Natural Dyeing: Jessica Unsell 🌿 Color Seeker (@wild_fire_water_) • Instagram photos and videos Home Health Care: Ep. 98. Homesteader Health with Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Amber Belt https://sites.libsyn.com/422132/098-homesteader-health-with-naturopathic-physician-dr-amber-belt Microgreens: Ep. 77 Growing Microgreens with Laura Patterson https://www.homesteadincomeplan.com/blog/microgreensbusiness Homeschooling: Ep. 63 Homesteading and Homeschooling with Cody Hanner https://sites.libsyn.com/422132/063-homeschooling-homesteading-with-kody-hanner-part-1 Permaculture: Ep. 52 What is Permaculture and How Can It Help You? https://sites.libsyn.com/422132/052-what-is-permaculture-how-can-it-help-you 00:00 Introduction to Homesteading for Beginners 00:15 Starting Your Homesteading Journey with Little to No Land 01:24 Gardening: The Foundation of Homesteading 02:32 Composting and Vermicomposting 03:28 Preserving and Seed Saving 05:18 Animal Husbandry: Caring for Livestock 07:12 Kitchen Skills: Bread, Cheese, and Cooking from Scratch 08:38 Foraging, Hunting, and Fishing 10:01 Herbalism and Soap Making 11:19 Welding, Carpentry, and Beekeeping 12:56 Budgeting, Natural Dyeing, and Aquaponics 15:04 Home Health Care and Butchery 16:31 Growing Fodder and Microgreens 17:43 Homeschooling and Woodworking 19:10 Permaculture Design and Conclusion

Jun 13, 2024 • 29min
103. Celebrating Small Wins: Transform Your Homesteading Journey
In this episode of the 'Homesteading for Beginners' podcast, I emphasize the importance of celebrating small wins to remain motivated and achieve long-term goals. I share personal stories from my homesteading and gardening journey, illustrating how celebrating incremental progress has been crucial in my 20+year experience. I also offer practical tips for maintaining a positive mindset and discuss the broader impacts of this mentality on homesteading and life. Are ready to start your homesteading journey but you're not sure exactly how to begin? The Beginner Homesteader's Starter Kit will take you through the steps you need to start your journey off on the right foot so that you can prevent homesteader burnout. This starter kit is on sale until June 30th 2024. Get 35% off by using the code: HOMESTEADSTART https://www.homesteadincomeplan.com/homesteadstart Watch this episode on YouTube and please don't forget to subscribe to my channel: https://youtu.be/7AdZfLsMh6M Get the Homesteading for Beginners checklist here >> https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/checklist/ 101 Homestead Income Ideas List: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/homesteadincome Homestead Income Plan Group (FACEBOOK): https://www.facebook.com/groups/homesteadincomeplan Shop Homesteading Books and Supplies: https://www.amazon.com/shop/farmer_mona Mona's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmer_mona/ Homesteading for Beginners YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@homesteadingforbeginners

Jun 4, 2024 • 19min
102. The Truth About Homesteading: A Pros & Cons List
Hey there, future and new homesteaders! In this episode of the Homesteading for Beginners podcast, we’re getting real about homesteading. Is it as amazing as it sounds, or are there some hidden challenges you need to know about? I’ll be sharing a list of pros and cons to help you get a clear picture of what to expect. Whether you’re just daydreaming about the homesteading life or you’re already digging into the dirt, this episode is for you. Grab a cup of coffee (or tea), sit back, and let’s chat about the true ups and downs of homesteading! Watch this episode on YouTube and don't forget to subscribe! YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/9btGqzL67R8 Get the free Homesteading for Beginners checklist: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/checklist/ Get the Homesteading for Beginner’s Starter Kit: https://www.homesteadincomeplan.com/homesteadstart Mona’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmer_mona

May 24, 2024 • 44min
101. DIY Greenhouse Plans with Carolynne Hill
Have you ever dreamed of having a beautiful and affordable greenhouse? Check out the DIY greenhouse plans from Hillside Market. #homesteading #homesteadingforbeginners #greenhouse #gardening In this interview with Carolynne Hill we talk about the ins and outs of building and having a greenhouse. This is episode 101 of the Homesteading for Beginners podcast. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast! View the YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/BjR4juQnNtc Check out the Hillside Market designs here: DIY Greenhouses with Carolynne Hill from Hillside Market Website: https://thehillsidemarket.com Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/TheHillsideMarket?ref=shop-header-name&listing_id=1428233164&from_page=listing Carolynne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehillsidemarket?igsh=ZDkxcWQ1YTY4aTZ2 New to homesteading? Get the free Homesteading for Beginners checklist: https://www.healthyhomesteading.com/checklist/ Get the Homesteading for Beginner’s Starter Kit: https://www.homesteadincomeplan.com/homesteadstart Mona’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmer_mona

May 17, 2024 • 19min
100. Beginner Homesteader's Starter Kit & 100th Episode Celebration!
Celebrate with me today! This is the 100th episode of the Homesteading for Beginners podcast! This podcast has been a labor of love and I'm just thrilled that I've made it this far. Thank you for being a part of the sucess of this podcast. I really value your listening ear. Are ready to start your homesteading journey but you're not sure exactly how to begin? The Beginner Homesteader's Starter Kit will take you through the steps you need to start your journey off on the right foot so that you can prevent homesteader burnout. This starter kit is on sale until June 30th 2024. Get 35% off by using the code: HOMESTEADSTART https://www.homesteadincomeplan.com/homesteadstart Watch this episode on YouTube and please don't forget to subscribe to my channel: https://youtu.be/FHaKlaWqA6M?si=28oh_hM2jGUfroYG I hope you are having a wonderful day! <3