In this throwback episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, I sit down with RuthAnn Zimmerman to discuss what life looks like on a busy homestead with lots of children. How do we practically get meals on the table when life seems chaotic? How do we prioritize relationships through the business of life? And, how do we cook for larger groups of people for holidays and special events. I think you’ll enjoy this conversation as much as I did. 

For more information and any links mentioned, visit the blog post here: https://melissaknorris.com/487 

This episode is sponsored by Azure Standard, one of my favorite ways to stock up on bulk grains, organic produce, and pantry staples without spending hours driving from store to store. Azure makes it easy to live intentionally while still working smarter in the kitchen. Right now, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more when you use code “Melissa15” at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

In this throwback episode, I’m sharing all of my must-have favorites for around the homestead. Whether it’s the best kitchen tools I can’t believe I ever lived without, my go-to clothing items for working outdoors on the homestead, or even those larger items we all like to save for buying on Black Friday doorbuster deals. 

Imagine I’m pulling up a chair at your kitchen table, sipping a cup of coffee and sharing all my favorite items that are tried and true winners. Let’s make those Black Friday purchases items we’ll look back on with fondness for years to come. 

For more information and any links mentioned, visit the blog post here: https://melissaknorris.com/486

In this throwback episode, I’m chatting with my friend Anne Briggs from Anne of All Trades about real life homesteading, what it takes, what works, and how to keep moving forward even when life gets busy. Anne left the tech world and dove into homesteading, and over the past decade she has learned everything from blacksmithing and woodworking to raising goats and building her own furniture. As of 2025, Anne is now a new mom and learning how to reevaluate her daily life and rhythms to fit into motherhood. 

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• A fresh word from Anne on how things have changed since becoming a mom. 

• How Anne learned new trade skills by teaching herself and seeking out mentors.

• Why the phrase “don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle” helps her stay grounded.

• Why starting with goats might not be the smartest first move (and yes, she shares some hilarious stories).

• Simple time management tools for the homestead, including how she uses the Pomodoro technique and limits phone distractions.

• How small, consistent steps add up to big results over time.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done or wondered how to balance work and homesteading, this conversation will encourage you to start where you are and keep going. Join me for an honest, practical talk with Anne about what it really looks like to build a hands-on, meaningful homestead life.

For more information and any links mentioned, visit the blog post here: https://melissaknorris.com/485

In this throwback episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, I’m sitting down with my dear friend Mary Shrader from Mary’s Nest to talk about how we can all build a kitchen where nothing goes to waste. Mary has such a gift for making traditional cooking approachable and fun, and in this episode she shares how her parents inspired her to live a homemade lifestyle long before it was popular.

Together we walk through practical ways to make the most of every ingredient, from turning veggie scraps into flavorful broth to keeping a “scrap bag” in your freezer. We also talk about the mindset behind a no waste kitchen. It’s not about perfection, it’s about taking small, simple steps that fit into your real life.

You’ll learn how to use what’s in your fridge before it spoils, how to build a well stocked pantry that saves time and money, and how to create meals that make the most of what you already have on hand.

If you’ve ever felt frustrated by throwing out food or wondered how to stretch your groceries a little further, this episode will give you the encouragement and know how to make your kitchen a place of abundance and creativity. You can find more information and any links mentioned here: https://melissaknorris.com/484 

Today I’m sharing a throwback of one of the most popular coaching calls from inside my Pioneering Today Academy: “How to Get It All Done on the Homestead.” I wanted to bring this one back because figuring out how to manage your time and energy on the homestead is something we all struggle with.

In this episode, I’ll show you how to break down big projects like canning peaches or putting up the harvest into smaller, doable steps that actually fit your daily life. No more marathon canning days or feeling completely overwhelmed. Instead, you’ll learn how to create rhythms and routines that make your homestead more enjoyable and sustainable.

If you’ve ever felt like there just aren’t enough hours in the day, this episode is for you. Let’s jump in.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/483

This episode is sponsored by Azure Standard, one of my favorite ways to stock up on bulk grains, organic produce, and pantry staples without spending hours driving from store to store. Azure makes it easy to live intentionally while still working smarter in the kitchen. Right now, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more when you use code “Melissa15” at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

In this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, I’m sharing why I’m pressing pause on new episodes for the rest of 2025 and what that really means for the future of the show. 

After years of teaching and encouraging others to live simply and seasonally, I’ve found myself needing to take my own advice. I’ve been dealing with some physical burnout and learning, once again, that rest isn’t quitting, it’s stewardship. In this episode, I’m opening up about what led me to this decision, what you can expect in the months ahead, and how slowing down can actually bring more peace and purpose to your homesteading life.

I’ll also tell you how you can help shape what’s next for Pioneering Today by sharing your feedback and ideas for future episodes. My hope is that this conversation encourages you to listen to your own body, honor your current season, and remember that even in rest, we’re still growing.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/482

Seed saving is one of the most valuable skills a gardener can learn, and in this episode I’m joined by Don Tipping of Siskiyou Seeds to dive deep into the why and how of saving your own garden seed. We’ll cover the difference between open-pollinated, heirloom, and hybrid varieties, which crops are best for beginners, how to prevent cross-pollination, and tips for harvesting, drying, and storing seeds so they last for years. 

Don also shares how seed saving helps you develop plants uniquely adapted to your microclimate, creating the heirlooms of tomorrow. Whether you’re brand new to seed saving or looking to refine your skills, this conversation will inspire and equip you to grow a more resilient, self-sufficient garden.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/481

This podcast is sponsored by Redmond Real Salt. Did you know Redmond sells much more than just salt? I love their bentonite clay powder and it’s a must-have in our house because we use it for wound care. Check out all of Redmond’s products at melissaknorris.com/redmond-salt and use code "PIONEERING" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Think you need a traditional root cellar to keep your harvest fresh through the winter? Think again. In this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, Melissa K. Norris sits down with Sam Knapp of Off Beet Farm in Alaska to talk about practical, no-fuss ways to store root vegetables without a root cellar.

You’ll learn the three keys to long-lasting storage—temperature, humidity, and airflow—as well as simple methods like using a spare fridge, Rubbermaid totes, or packing in sand or shavings. Sam also shares which crops are the most forgiving, the best varieties for long-term storage, and how to troubleshoot common problems like shriveling and rodents.

Whether you’re a backyard gardener or growing a year’s supply of food, this episode will give you the confidence to keep carrots, beets, potatoes, and cabbages fresh for months.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/480

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Think from-scratch cooking is hard or takes too much time? The truth is, with a stocked pantry, a few simple substitutions, and some foundational kitchen skills, you can make healthy, homemade meals in less time than it takes to run to the store.

In this podcast, we're busting the top myths about from-scratch cooking and showing you how to: 

✅ Swap ingredients with easy substitutions (no last-minute store runs!)

✅ Make boxed food favorites from scratch—faster and healthier

✅ Save time with meal planning that actually fits your family 

✅ Reheat leftovers so they taste fresh and delicious

✅ Build a stocked pantry that makes dinner stress-free

You’ll see how learning just a handful of simple techniques can transform your kitchen, your budget, and your confidence as a home cook. From homemade cream-of-soup that takes four minutes to a DIY biscuit mix that beats Bisquick, cooking from scratch has never been easier.

👉 Want to go deeper? Join me for my FREE live training, “From-Scratch Cooking Made Easy,” on September 8th where I’ll share pantry staples, substitution secrets, and time-saving tips: https://melissaknorris.com/kitchen

Related Videos & Resources:

• Homemade Cream of Soup Substitute: https://melissaknorris.com/the-best-cream-of-soup-recipes-youll-ever-make/

• How to Meal Plan Without the Stress: https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/how-to-meal-plan-for-easy-healthy-meals-from-scratch/

• Homemade Biscuit Mix Recipe: https://melissaknorris.com/homemade-biscuit-mix/

✨ If you’re ready to ditch the boxes and serve your family nourishing meals every night—without the overwhelm—this podcast is for you!

Looking for healthy and refreshing summer drinks that aren’t soda? In this podcast, we’re sharing our favorite homemade beverages to help you stay cool and hydrated on hot summer days. From sparkling lemon spritzers and fruity mocktails to herbal iced teas, iced coffee, and smoothies. You’ll find plenty of delicious options made with real ingredients right from your kitchen or garden.

What you’ll learn in this podcast:

• Easy soda alternatives you can make at home

• Seasonal fruit mocktails like watermelon basil & rhubarb lemonade

• How to use herbs for refreshing iced teas and infused waters

• My go-to protein shake and iced coffee recipe

• Simple tricks like herbed ice cubes & chia pudding for cool summer treats

Say goodbye to sugary sodas and hello to nourishing drinks that actually hydrate and satisfy!

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/478

In this special episode, I sat down with my dear friend Carolyn Thomas from Homesteading Family, right in her Idaho home! We’re pulling back the curtain on what life looks like on a mature homestead. 

After over two decades each of growing food, raising animals, and running busy households, we’re sharing what we’ve let go of, what we’re leaning into, and how we’re building homesteads that truly work for our families and seasons of life. From letting go of burnout and fussy crops to rethinking dairy animals, planning for grown kids, and producing more animal feed right on the land. This is a real, refreshing conversation you won’t want to miss.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/477

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

This episode is near and dear to my heart. With one child officially out of the house and my daughter quickly approaching adulthood, I've found myself feeling all the feelings this summer: nostalgic, grateful, and more intentional than ever. I gathered a few dear homesteading friends for a heartfelt kitchen roundtable where we shared our favorite summer memories, the simple things that stuck with us from childhood, and how we're creating meaningful traditions with our families today.

We’re talking bonfires, camping, blackberry picking, and yes, even escape rooms and game nights! You'll hear how summer rhythms have shifted for each of us over the years, what’s working in this season, and why it’s okay to buy the hot dog buns and use paper plates if it means more time connecting with your people.

If you're longing for a slower, richer summer full of real connection, this episode is for you. Let's make the most of the season we’re in, together. 

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/476

Grab Plated by Season here: https://melissaknorris.com/plated 

If the idea of parasites gives you the creepy-crawlies, you’re not alone, but chances are, you’ve already got a few living in your body right now. In this episode, I’m joined again by Dr. Torrie Thompson, a functional medicine doctor who walks us through how common parasites actually are, the surprising symptoms they can cause, and how we can support our bodies in safely removing them.

We’re talking about everything from food sensitivities and skin rashes to poor sleep and anxiety, and how they might be linked to hidden infections. Dr. Torrie also shares what herbs, binders, and protocols she uses in her own practice, as well as what to avoid if you're not ready to detox yet. If you’re feeling off and haven’t found answers, this might be the missing piece.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/475

In this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, I’m sharing all about my experience as a mentor and homesteading expert on the new show Back to the Frontier. It was such a privilege to help guide modern families as they learned old-fashioned skills and stepped into a simpler, more self-sufficient way of life. 

I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what it was really like on set—the challenges, the surprises, and the moments that reminded me why I’m so passionate about preserving these traditional skills and passing them on to the next generation.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/474

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

What does it really take to live off the land in today’s world—and could you do it under pressure? In this special episode, I sit down with Stacey Loper, one of the brave contestants from the brand-new TV series Back to the Frontier, where modern families are challenged to survive like the pioneers. 

I share my behind-the-scenes experience giving advice to the show's cast, while Stacey opens up about the hardest parts of filming, how faith and grit carried her through, and what lessons she’s bringing home to her real-life homestead. 

Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or just starting out, this conversation will inspire you to get back to basics and trust that you can do hard things.

Tune in for a heartfelt, down-to-earth chat about community, resilience, and living intentionally—on and off screen.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/473

Join me for this podcast with Will Harris from White Oak Pastures and Taylor Henry from Acres USA as we discuss what's going on with fertilizer companies and immunity for their products. 

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/472

Grab your tickets to the Modern Homesteading Conference here and use coupon code MKN15 for 15% off: https://modernhomesteading.com/ 

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

So you want to go on vacation or you need to leave town for a few days... but you have a homestead. Feel like you're stuck? Listen to today’s podcast with four fellow homesteading moms as we share our tips and tricks for how we prepare to leave our homesteads. Plus, the commonly forgotten tasks! 

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/471

Grab your tickets to the Modern Homesteading Conference here and use coupon code MKN15 for 15% off: https://modernhomesteading.com/ 

Be sure to check out my dehydrating mini course and all my other classes here: https://melissaknorris.com/classes/

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

In this podcast, we're discussing the hidden layers of homestead security and why community may be your best defense. When we talk about defense, many people think about locks, cameras, etc. But what if your greatest security wasn't a thing but a who?

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/470

Join me with Don Tipping from Siskiyou Seeds as we discuss direct sowing methods for seeds. You’ll also want to catch his tips on how to keep weeds out of the garden, and his brilliant hack for using a flamethrower without ruining your seedlings.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/469

Grab your Modern Homesteading Conference tickets here and use code "MKN15" for 15% off at checkout: https://modernhomesteading.com 

Join me with Farrow Skincare’s Charles Mayfield as we discuss the benefits of tallow and lard for skincare, especially pre-sun and post-sun skincare. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/468

Check out Farrow Skincare and get 15% off your purchase with coupon code “Melissa15”: https://farrow.life/ 

If you're looking to get a farm dog, you may be wondering which farm dog breeds are best. This can vary based on many factors, from your needs, your property and your time commitment to training the dog. Listen to this podcast interview with Jordyn Kelly from Working Aussies Homestead. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/467

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Join us for this month’s Homestead Kitchen Round Table as we talk about our favorite preservation methods and tips for getting our fresh produce preserved for the year while minimizing the stress. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/466

Be sure to sign up for the upcoming Homestead Kitchen Crash Course. During this FREE 5-day workshop you’ll learn to preserve the harvest, stock the pantry and ditch the grocery store, one jar at a time! https://melissaknorris.com/crash 

And finally, grab my updated edition of Home and Hand Made with over 100+ recipes and tutorials for filling your home with handmade goodies! https://melissaknorris.com/handmade 

We’re continuing the conversation of from-scratch cooking today with RuthAnn Zimmerman. Both of us agree that cooking from scratch does not mean you’re slaving away in the kitchen all day long, nor does it mean everything you eat has to be made from scratch. Listen to today’s podcast on implementing Mennonite traditions to create simple meals and stronger families. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/465

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Struggling to make healthy, from-scratch meals during a busy week? In this episode of the Homestead Kitchen Round Table, Melissa is joined by Rachel, Michelle, and Sophia to share real-food batch cooking tips, time-saving kitchen strategies, and practical meal-planning ideas for busy families—whether you’re cooking for two or ten. Say goodbye to last-minute processed meals and hello to nourishing food made simple. 🔗 Get all the resources mentioned at: https://melissaknorris.com/464

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard 

Enjoy this podcast interview with Bevin Cohen as we discuss many medicinal herbs, their uses and the best time to harvest various herbs for the most medicinal properties.

Though this post isn't an extensive look at each herb, if you'd like to learn more, be sure to grab a copy of Bevin's book, Herbs in Every Season to learn more! In his book, he shares 48 various herbs you can focus on throughout the seasons to deepen your understanding and usage of herbs for culinary, cosmetic and medicinal purposes. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/463

Also, grab your tickets to the Modern Homesteading Conference… Bevin and I hope to see you there!

From a preparedness standpoint, knowing how to identify and properly harvest and prepare wild edibles means you'll be able to feed yourself (and your family) if ever the need arises. In this podcast interview, Whitney (The Appalachian Forager) and I are discussing some common foraging basics to keep you safe, as well as some basic mushroom identification tips you'll want to study before you go out foraging.

• Harvest to Table Magazine (get your copy here): https://melissaknorris.com/magazine
• Whitney's book, Go Forth and Forage: https://geni.us/GoForthandForage

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/462

Join me for another Roundtable podcast with my guests Michelle, Rachel and Sophia as we discuss all things herbalism. From growing new varieties of medicinal herbs to how to get our resistant family members to use herbal remedies. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/461

Join me for this podcast interview with Chris Browning of Popcorn Finance as we discuss the importance of budgeting, saving and planning for the future. He’s sharing his best tips for how to get out of debt and create a life that will sustain your homesteading dreams for the future. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/460

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Join me for this podcast interview with Dana K White from A Slob Comes Clean! We’re talking about the multiple reasons why your home may continue to get cluttered and how to change your mindset to finally stay on top of it all. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/459

This week’s podcast episode is all about hand-crank grain mills. Are they worth the hype or not? My guest, Bonnie Jones from GrainMaker, is a wealth of knowledge and sharing who hand-crank grain mills are right for. Plus, you’ll definitely want to hear about GrainMaker’s Heirloom Lifetime Guarantee on their 100% made in the USA grain mills! For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/458

Grab your Modern Homesteading Conference tickets here: https://modernhomesteading.com/

Check out my post on grain grinding tips: https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/grinding-flour-6-fresh-flour-baking-tips/

Welcome to the first-ever Homestead Kitchen Roundtable podcast episode! This is a free-form podcast chat with me, Melissa Norris and my guests Michelle Hedgcock, Rachel Costenbader and Sophia Eng. In this episode (which is #457 of the Pioneering Today Podcast), we're discussing time-saving kitchen tips and tricks we wished we knew as younger cooks. From our favorite go-to recipe when we need dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less to our must-do time-saving tips in the kitchen for busy schedules. 

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/457

Many of us desire to have backup and emergency systems in place to know our family will be well taken care of in times of emergency or power outages. That's why my family has been looking into a hand water well pump as a backup water solution for our generator. Join me in this podcast episode with Jonathan and Cody from Flojak, a made in the USA hand well pump company to learn more about these pumps and whether they’re a good option for your homestead. 

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/456

If you're listening to this podcast, you're probably thinking that sourdough baking is something you'd like to try. Hesitate no more, and let me assure you that baking with sourdough is 100% worth the effort to learn and implement into your daily life. Snag some of my best tips in today’s podcast, then sign up for my upcoming FREE webinar where I'm sharing nine easy tips for sourdough to bake like a pro at home.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/455.

To sign up for my FREE sourdough webinar, visit: https://melissaknorris.com/sourdoughclass.  

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Imagine being able to grow crops that basically preserve themselves! Would you believe me if I told you there are storage varieties of tomatoes that can last upwards of six months when stored correctly? You know I’ve purchased my storage tomato seeds already! If you want to learn more, join me for today’s podcast episode with Don Tipping of Siskiyou Seeds. For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/454. 

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

In this podcast episode I’m recapping my experience at the Homestead movie premiere in Salt Lake City, UT. Being at the premiere brought up some important questions and I found myself having deep thought-provoking conversations with friends and family afterward. If you have yet to checkout the Homestead movie, or want to learn more, visit https://melissaknorris.com/angel. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/453

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Join me with my guest, Susan Poizner, as we discuss fruit tree care and management. I’m excited for today’s episode because I learned something new that I’m excited to implement in our orchard next year. Susan is a wealth of knowledge about all things fruit trees and I know you’ll find today’s podcast filled with wisdom and tips. 

For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/452.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Join me with my guest, Jason Ross, co-author of the Black Autumn book series which has been turned into a movie and TV series called Homestead. In this episode, we’re discussing how homesteading can bring communities together for good and to learn skills that provide hope for the future unknowns.

For more information and any links mentioned in this episode (including where you can grab David’s books), visit https://melissaknorris.com/451.

To enter the Homestead giveaway, visit the link and purchase tickets to see Homestead (releasing on December 20, 2024) in a theatre near you. https://www.angel.com/pre-sales/homestead/giveaway To learn more about the Homestead movie or watch the trailor, go here: https://www.homestead.tv/ 

It’s incredible the difference between commercial and ancestral methods of cheesemaking. Join me for today’s podcast with author David Asher as we talk about what you need to know for natural cheesemaking at home. Plus, you won’t want to miss his tip on using sourdough starter to make a homemade cheese culture. You read that right, a sourdough starter! I can’t wait to give it a try.   

For more information and any links mentioned in this episode (including where you can grab David’s books), visit https://melissaknorris.com/450.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

You may not think of regenerative farming practices and skincare as topics that go hand-in-hand, but after this podcast you might! Not only can regenerative agriculture save the planet, but it can save your skin! Join me in this podcast interview with Charles Mayfield from Farrow Skincare to learn the long-lost secret to your best skincare.  

For more information and any links mentioned in this episode (including where you can find out more about Farrow Skincare), visit https://melissaknorris.com/449.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Most of us will experience times of uncertainty at some point in our lives. This uncertainty can turn into worry and/or anxiety if not properly processed. However, there are ways to control our emotions and let them work for us instead of against us. 

Join me with today's podcast guest, Britnay Nelson for this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast (episode #448) as we discuss how to turn worry into purpose. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/448.

This podcast is sponsored by Pioneering Today Academy, a monthly membership to help you make your homesteading dreams a reality. Join over 1,600 members that are growing, canning, and building their way to healthier, more self-sufficient lives.

As summer rolls into fall it’s important for any homestead to walk through the checklist of things to do to be prepared for winter. The bonus of doing these tasks is that it sets you up for a great spring the following year. Join me as I walk you through everything we’ve been doing on our homestead. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/447.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Our diets are more important than Western civilization gives them credit for. Everything from what we put into our bodies and how our digestive system handles that food to the effects of that food is often overlooked (or ignored). Join me with my guest, Heather Woodruff, as we discuss how to heal our guts based on what we put in our bodies. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/446.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Sometimes more modern doesn’t mean better. For years, our ancestors raised, slaughtered and butchered animals for their families without the help of butchers. In this episode, my guest Andrea and I are discussing ways to get back to the old ways of butchering with a hybrid model that allows you more control of the cuts and costs less in the long run. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/445.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard 

When it comes to eating the whole animal, our modern-day culture has fallen away from eating nose to tail. Sadly, some of the most nutrient-dense parts of the animal are in the cuts many people don't eat. If you've been wanting to give offal a try, this video interview is a must-watch.

For more information, visit the blog post here: https://melissaknorris.com/444

Grab your Pluck Seasoning and be sure to use coupon code "MELISSAKNORRIS" at checkout for 15% off your order: https://melissaknorris.com/pluck-seasoning

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

When raising cattle, the feed is the most expensive part! If you can grow your own feed in a pasture, you’ll be drastically cutting the cost of raising those cattle. For us, we purchased 40 acres of farmland two years ago and have been trying to rehabilitate the pasture grasses to help offset our feed bill. We knew we were battling thistle, but it turns out, the thistle wasn’t the problem, it was the only a symptom of a larger issue. Listen to this podcast episode with Karson Rippstein from Redmond Agriculture as he helps uncover the problems we’re facing in our pastures. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/443.

If you've been curious about getting a freeze-dryer, then this podcast is a must-listen because we're diving deep into everything you'd want to know about freeze-drying before bringing one home! Today's podcast (episode #442) is special for me because it's with my best friend, Carolyn Thomas of Homesteading Family. In this episode, we share the behind-the-scenes of our freeze-drying journies and share some of the mistakes we made along the way. Plus, Carolyn shares her seven must-do steps when freeze-drying for the best success every time. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/442.

Grab Carolyn's book, Freeze Drying the Harvest. 

Today we’re learning how we can grow MORE food with LESS work by using food forests with my guest Takota Coen. This podcast includes information about what a food forest is, how they're restorative to nature, and how you can grow one no matter what climate or growing zone you're in. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/440.

Join me with my guest Dr. Torrie Thompson. This is the functional doctor I’ve been working with to eliminate toxins for the past 9 months now. In today’s episode we’re diving into all things toxins. From where we get exposed to them, how to eliminate them and avoid them, to how to detox from toxins. I’m even asking her all the questions I’ve been gathering from you, my listeners. This is one jam-packed episode you won’t want to miss. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/439.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa15” to get 15% off your first order of $100 or more delivered to a drop location.

Join me with Back to Eden master Paul Gautschi as we discuss basic methods for using woodchips in the garden. He walks me through some of the common mistakes I made and how to fix them. I’m happy to report that just a couple of months after implementing these strategies, I’ve already seen massive improvements in my garden. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/438.

Be sure to grab your copy of Homestead Living Magazine to see Paul's cover story in October's issue: https://homesteadliving.com

This week I’m sharing my favorite easy and FAST preservation methods. When the harvest comes on, it’s not always convenient timing. But we don’t want all our efforts to go to waste. Learn about my top four go-to preservation methods when I need to preserve food fast. Some of them can buy you time until you’re ready for a larger preservation session! Learn more and find any links mentioned in this episode at https://melissaknorris.com/437.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa15” to get 15% off your first order of $100 or more delivered to a drop location.

This week I’m excited to have Laura Gilmour on the podcast talking about herbal elixirs, shrubs, cocktails and mocktails. She’s given me plenty of inspiration to start using my herb garden to create incredible drinks with health benefits! Laura also shared her favorite drink recipe using a blueberry and spruce shrub that sounds incredible. You can find that recipe and any other links mentioned in this episode at https://melissaknorris.com/436.

This week I’m sharing part two of my health journey and updating you on my six-month toxin results. Though I’m not going to disclose my exact detox protocol (because it’s so individualized based on my numbers and labs), I will be sharing some basic changes you can make in your life to immediately reduce your toxin exposure. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/435.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa15” to get 15% off your first order of $100 or more delivered to a drop location.

This week I’m sharing my health journey and update on some toxin testing I’ve been doing for better health. It’s been quite the journey, but one I’m happy to share about because I know I’m not the only one struggling from years of exposure to PFAS (or “forever chemical”). Unfortunately, our bodies don’t know what to do with these chemicals and the results can be devastating to our health. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/434.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa15” to get 15% off your first order of $100 or more delivered to a drop location.

Join me with guest Marc Warnke as he nearly convinces me to get goats again! We’re talking all things raising goats, from the space and supplies required, time it takes to milk them daily, and the various uses they have around the homestead. He’s a wealth of information and you’ll definitely want to check out the corresponding blog post for the resources mentioned. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/433.

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa15” to get 15% off your first order of $100 or more delivered to a drop location.

Join me as I continue on in this Homesteading 101 Series (Back to the Basics). Today’s episode is all about the basics of preserving. There are ten different methods I’ll discuss in today’s podcast, listed in order from what I consider to be the easiest to the most difficult. I truly believe in layering on skillsets to help prevent overwhelm. If you’re new to preserving, this podcast will be a treasure trove of information and tips for getting started. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/432.

Be sure to join me for my live training all about preserving on June 10, 2024. 

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa10” to get 10% off your first order of $50 or more delivered to a drop location.

In the realm of sustainable farming practices, regenerative agriculture has really come to the forefront of our attention. It provides hope with a holistic approach to land stewardship that goes beyond mere sustainability to actively restore and regenerate ecosystems. But what exactly is regenerative agriculture, and why does it matter? Join me with Noble Research Institutes Jim Johnson as he shares regenerative agriculture practices to improve our soil, ecosystem and, ultimately, our planet. For links and resources, visit the blog post here: https://melissaknorris.com/431.

This post is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa10” to get 10% off your first order of $50 or more.

This week I’m sharing a bit more about my own health journey and what I learned about the dangers of soda. I’m excited to have CeAnne Kosel from Farmhouse Teas joining me as she’s a wealth of information when it comes to making your own healthy homemade soda alternatives that actually taste good and that your family will love. If you’d like to learn more from CeAnne, she’ll be at this year’s Modern Homesteading Conference in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho June 28-29, 2024. We can’t wait to see you there and we hope you enjoy this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast. To learn more, visit the blog post here: https://melissaknorris.com/430.

This post is sponsored by Azure Standard. If you’re not quite ready to make your own soda, Azure has quite a few alternatives, including water kefir grains. For first-time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa10” to get 10% off your first order of $50 or more.

While I continue my podcast break, please enjoy this podcast episode that was published as a YouTube video only. I’m interviewing Dr. Patrick Jones on the medicinal herbs I’m growing in my garden, plus discussing many of their uses. If you’re looking to grow a medicinal herb garden, you’ll definitely want to check out the post that goes with this interview as it’s jam-packed with more herbal info. If you’d like to learn more from Doc Jones, he’ll be at this year’s Modern Homesteading Conference in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho June 28-29, 2024. You can hear him teach and shop his herbal remedies at his booth. We can’t wait to see you there and we hope you enjoy this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast. To learn more, visit the blog post here: https://melissaknorris.com/429.

I know last week I said I’d be taking a break from podcasting, and while that’s still true, I just couldn’t leave you all hanging for three whole weeks. So this week and next week I have a couple of special podcast episodes that originally aired as video interviews over on YouTube with Dr. Patrick Jones from Homegrown Herbalist. In this podcast, he’s sharing his wisdom of herbal medicine and veterinary care. Sharing what herbs are safe for animals (and which should be avoided or used with caution). If you’d like to learn more from Doc Jones, he’ll be at this year’s Modern Homesteading Conference in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho June 28-29, 2024. You can hear him teach and shop his herbal remedies at his booth. We can’t wait to see you there and we hope you enjoy this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast. To learn more, visit the blog post here: https://melissaknorris.com/428

Join me with my guest Deanne Converse as we discuss ways to become more self-sustainable with our livestock feed costs. Deanne is sharing her years of experience in feeding livestock without the feed store. With the rise in feed costs over the past few years, this is one podcast you won’t want to miss. We’re not only talking about how to feed cattle, but chickens, pigs, sheep, goats and more. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/427.

This post is sponsored by The Modern Homesteading Conference. If you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, don’t wait!

Join me as I continue on in this Homesteading 101 Series (Back to the Basics). Today’s episode is all about the basics of raising livestock, and I’ll heavily focus on cattle. If you’ve ever wanted to raise your own grass-fed, grass-finished beef then this is the podcast for you. I’m giving you all the basics you need in today’s episode, plus many links for additional resources. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/426.

This post is sponsored by Azure Standard. If you’re not yet raising your own beef cattle and are looking for good quality beef, look no further than Azure Standard. They offer sustainably sourced beef products from frozen cuts of beef to, my favorite, beef jerky! We've purchased their beef jerky for my son and husband to take as snacks on their long days of work and it’s delicious. They also carry many A2/A2 dairy products that you'll want to check out. For first-time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa10” to get 10% off your first order of $50 or more.

Be sure to sign up for my Homestead Skills Summit, April 22-26, 2024. Each day of the week we’ll focus on a different homesteading topic, with live Q&A and prizes and a final live Q&A session on Friday to wrap up the week. Join here: https://melissaknorris.com/pta-summit/

Join me and my guest, Don Tipping from Siskiyou Seeds as we discuss the history of seeds and seed saving and how it’s changed over the past 100 years. Our conversation takes a deep dive into how seed companies source their seed (this may surprise you!) and how to know you’re getting quality seeds with the exact characteristics you want. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/425. 

This post is sponsored by Azure Standard. If you’re in need of garden starts, be sure to check out Ellie’s Eden plants. They have a large selection of vegetable, herb and flower starts and they’re fantastic quality. For first time Azure customers, you can use code “Melissa10” to get 10% off your first order of $50 or more.

Be sure to sign up for my Homestead Skills Summit, April 22-26, 2024. Each day of the week we’ll focus on a different homesteading topic, with live Q&A and prizes and a final live Q&A session on Friday to wrap up the week. Join here: https://melissaknorris.com/pta-summit/

Join me and my guest, Susan Poizner, as we discuss the basics of growing fruit trees. With a few tips under your belt, you’ll know what fruit tree varieties will work best for your climate, when to plant your trees, and the nine tips for getting your fruit trees to grow fast! Susan also covers some mistakes to avoid when planting new fruit trees and we briefly cover how to protect your trees from disease (or rehabilitate neglected trees). For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/424 

Join me as I continue on in this Homesteading 101 Series (Back to the Basics). Today’s episode is all about the basics of gardening. Which ultimately means understanding the basics of soil. You don’t have to be a soil expert, or a biochemist to understand how to know if your soil is good (or how to amend it, if needed). However, if you don’t pay attention to your soil quality, it doesn’t matter how many other gardening skills you acquire, you’ll continue to struggle if your soil quality is poor. I’m giving you all the basics you need in today’s episode, plus many links for additional resources. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/423.

Azure Standard: I want to thank Azure Standard for sponsoring this podcast. One of my favorite things about Azure is every spring they offer incredible garden starts! So, if you find yourself behind the curve of starting seeds indoors, you can order starts from Ellie’s Eden. They have vegetable starts, flower starts, herb starts… so many options! For first-time customers, you can get 10% off your first Azure Standard purchase of $50 or more using coupon code “Melissa10” at checkout.

Join me for this podcast interview with Dr. Christopher Hobbs as we discuss the health benefits of mushrooms. The benefits are vast, and when you consider that you can easily grow mushrooms at home (or forage for them nearly everywhere), it gets even more exciting. Ever since I found healing from stomach acid and ulcers by changing the food I ate, I've continued down the rabbit hole of using our food and herbs as medicine. Join me with Dr. Hobbs as we discuss the best mushrooms for their medicinal purposes, the benefits of consuming mushrooms, and how mushrooms may be a great way to get some extra prebiotic fiber into our diets. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/422.

Check out my live class on 3/20/24 all about growing and foraging for mushrooms here: https://my.demio.com/ref/EIhRpGOdPqVWiDqE

American Blossom Linens: I want to thank American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast. You may think of linens and bedsheets as a basic item, but they're a staple in most homes. If you want heirloom quality sheets that will last a lifetime, American Blossom Linens is for you. I've found in many areas of the homestead, by investing in higher quality items (yes, they generally cost more up front), I inevitably save money in the long run. This is definitely true for my sheet set from American Blossom Linens. I’ve had my sheets for two and a half years and they’re only getting softer and softer. Use coupon code "PioneeringToday20" to get 20% off your first set of sheets at: https://melissaknorris.com/ABL

One of the crops that’s easily overlooked for growing a sustainable food source on the homestead is the nut tree. As with fruit trees, once a nut tree is established, it can produce food for your family for decades (and even generations) to come. Learn which nut trees are best for your homestead needs with David Hughes from Rock Bridge Trees. He’s sharing his best tips on nut tree care and maintenance, harvesting and even pest control. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/421.

Azure Standard: I want to thank Azure Standard for sponsoring this podcast. If you don’t yet have nut trees of your own, Azure is a fantastic source for buying nuts in bulk. It’s the only place I’ll buy my nuts because I trust their sourcing and quality control practices. Not only does Azure Standard carry whole nuts, they also carry a wide variety of nut butters and other such products. For first-time customers, you can get 10% off your first Azure Standard purchase of $50 or more using coupon code “Melissa10” at checkout.

Join me for this podcast series on Homesteading 101: Back to the Basics. We know countless people are joining this homesteading movement, and I would like to hold the door open and welcome you in. In this series we’ll be discussing the five pillars of homesteading: gardening, livestock, homestead cooking, preserving and herbal medicine. Though this series won't be a comprehensive step-by-step on how to start a homestead, it should help answer some of those basic questions many people have when venturing into a new aspect of homesteading. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit https://melissaknorris.com/420.

American Blossom Linens: I want to thank American Blossom Linens for sponsoring this podcast. You may think of linens and bedsheets as a basic item, but they're a staple in most homes. If you want heirloom quality sheets that will last a lifetime, American Blossom Linens is for you. I've found in many areas of the homestead, by investing in higher quality items (yes, they generally cost more up front), I inevitably save money in the long run. This is definitely true for my sheet set from American Blossom Linens. I’ve had my sheets for two and a half years and they’re only getting softer and softer. Use coupon code "PioneeringToday20" to get 20% off your first set of sheets at: https://melissaknorris.com/ABL

For the first time ever, genetically modified seeds have been made available to the common gardener for home use. I’ve been hearing from many home gardeners how excited they are to grow this new variety of tomato in their home garden, which to be honest, surprises me. Which makes me wonder if everyone knows exactly what GMO seeds are, and if we ought to be concerned? In today’s podcast, I’m diving into the nitty gritty of what classifies a seed as GMO, or Hybrid, or F1 Hybrid. I’m also explaining self-pollination, open-pollination and what you need to know as a home-gardener to successfully seed save. But more importantly, I want to discuss the place of GMO seeds in the home-garden. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/419.

Azure Standard is the sponsor for this podcast. For first-time Azure customers, get 10% off your first order of $50 or more with coupon code "Melissa10" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Are you under the impression that you live in a pretty secure area, free of threats from natural disasters or wide-spread emergencies? I invite you to listen to today’s podcast and you may reconsider just how prepared you and your family are. Emergencies happen in the blink of an eye, and if you’re not ready, they can be catastrophic. Join me with Jeff Anderson from Warrior Life as he shares his knowledge of being prepared and how to pack a “bug out bag” (also known as a “go bag”). He’ll share what must-haves each bag needs, plus some items to avoid. Grab his FREE class here: melissaknorris.com/warrior-life-workshop. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/418.

Now is the time to be thinking about your medicinal herb gardens. When planning to stock your herbal medicine cabinets, the planning starts well before harvest. Whether you’re growing your own medicinal herbs, just getting started with an herb garden, or purchasing herbs, tinctures, or other herbal remedies already made, now is the time to plan to stock up for the year. Come listen to this episode as I share my tips on how to plan, buy seeds, starts or cuttings, or purchase products from trusted and reputable sources. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/417. To grab the Medicinal Herb Garden e-book go here 

With meat labeling laws being changed right before our eyes, it's getting harder and harder to trust where our meat is coming from, and how it was raised and processed. Will Harris and his daughter Jenni from White Oak Pastures share the steps consumers can take to regain control over the food industry. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/416.

Let's dive into the gut-brain connection and how to improve our gut for better overall health and wellness. If you've been around here for any length of time, you know we discuss the importance of our gut health. 70-80% of our gut health is located in our gut. So what we eat, food-wise, not only affects our digestion and overall health, but our immune system. The amazing thing is that it goes beyond our immune system because it impacts the way our brain communicates with all the other systems in our body. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/415.

This week I’m sharing my health update (post surgery) as well as my battle with a 35 day virus(es). I’m also sharing my need for margin, and some of the health changes I’m making in 2024. If you find yourself nearing burnout, don’t wait until it finally happens to make necessary changes in your life. This is so important not only for mental health, but our physical health as well. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/414.

This past week we were running our cattle herd through the system for getting tags (which helps track lineage), castration and overall wellbeing. Having a larger operation has meant some changes for these practices. If you’re thinking about raising cattle, I highly recommend you listen to today’s podcast as I’m sharing some of the differences between owning one, nine or 20+ head of cattle. I also discuss the differences between banding or cut castration and why we switched. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/413.

Join me with Sophia Eng, author of The Nourishing Asian Kitchen, as we discuss her journey into homesteading, motherhood, homeschooling, blogging and becoming a cookbook author. No doubt you’ve heard of the Nourishing Traditions cookbook by Sally Fallon. Sophia took her inspiration from there and recreated over 100 traditional Asian recipes that had been passed down for generations in her family. But instead of using processed ingredients, she used only real whole foods. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/412.

As promised, in today’s episode I’m spilling the beans on the health issues I’ve been having for the past few years. Turns out, what I thought was a damaged muscle turned out to be a tumor. By the time you’re hearing this, I should be happily recovering from surgery and will be sure to give you an update once I’m able. In this episode, I’m also sharing my frustrations about the broken medical system (hint: they match my frustrations about the broken food system) and sharing encouragement on ways to be your own advocate. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/411.

I’ve been traveling for the past two weeks. In fact, in about a 14 day period, I was only home a few of those days. What I noticed was the huge lack of healthy food available in many parts of the United States. I’ve become quite accustomed to what’s available in my own slice of the world, and I can easily forget that not everyone has available to them what I do here. So what is it that we need to focus on today in order to fix our broken food system? Listen to this podcast episode and hear my own thoughts on the changes I want to see start happening, and how you can be a part of that change. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/410.

Welcome back to part two of my series on answering your questions. In today’s episode, I’m sharing a bit more of the “behind-the-scenes” of what it takes to run my business. From how much time per day I spend on my job, to how many people I have working with me. Plus how to create a homestead that can sustain itself financially and all the different ways that can look. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/409.

Welcome back to another episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast. In today’s episode, I’ll be answering your questions from social media. All these questions pertain to homesteading, so we’re calling this the “Homesteading Edition” and I’ll be back next week to answer more of your questions pertaining to the financial side of homesteading and running a business. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/408.

Have you ever wondered how people manage to grocery shop, cook from-scratch meals for their family, and have no waste coming out of their homes? They make it look so easy! Though it might not be easy, it is simple. Join me for today’s podcast with special guest, Mary Shrader from Mary’s Nest as we discuss the skills that were passed down to us from our parents who lived through the Great Depression. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/407.

Have you ever wondered if it’s safe to can previously frozen foods? I’m here to tell you it is, but with a few caveats. There are certain foods I wouldn’t feel comfortable canning after it has been frozen (and I’ll share why in the podcast), but there are also a few things you want to consider before tossing those precious veggies into the freezer. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/406.

Come hang out with me and Kaylee Richardson (from The Honeystead) as we discuss our favorite medicinal herbs and their uses. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/405.

What is an adaptogen and why should you consider incorporating them into your daily routine? Learn about adaptogen herbs and how they can be used to help support your body on a daily basis, including what adaptogens to use, where to buy them, and how to use them.  For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/404.

Join me for today’s episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast with hunting expert Chris Gilmour. For many, hunting brings up negative connotations or even sadness. My guest can completely understand that as he wasn't raised with hunting as I was. In fact, he was even a vegetarian for eight years! Listen in to this episode because we’re discussing all things hunting, from the various hunting styles, how much it costs to get into hunting, how to find the best places to hunt, and where you can join Chris for a hunting course. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/402.

Today’s episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast is all about how to preserve food when it’s too hot to can (even canning outdoors). For many of us, August comes with some extreme heat. This isn’t always great for our garden, especially during the peak of the harvest. Learn how to make sure your harvest doesn’t go to waste and that you can preserve all that garden goodness without heating up your house in the process. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/401.

Today’s episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast is a special one with a local friend of mine, Andrea. Andrea is co-host of the Ancestral Kitchen Podcast and is shedding light on a very interesting topic of a “working bee.” In today’s episode, she’s sharing what a working bee is, how it can be different based on whatever your particular interests or needs, and how they are extremely relevant and needed in today’s day and age. Have a listen because I think you’re going to find this episode very encouraging and inspiring. Maybe you’ll start a working bee of your own? For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/400.

Today’s episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast is with author Bevin Cohen. He’s spearheaded the movement for at home pressing of seed and nut oils and loves to share his years of knowledge and experience with us. If you’ve ever wondered about the health of seed oils, this podcast may surprise you! And, find out why I’ll be growing mamoth sunflowers in my garden next year! For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/399.

Join me for today’s episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast with Dr. Patrick Jones. He’s sharing his wisdom for harvesting, preserving and using wild medicinal herbs that can be found right in our own backyard. If you’re interested in herbal medicine, this is one episode you won’t want to miss. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/403.

Today’s episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast is with master canning expert Georgia Varozza. She and I are discussing the ins and outs of safe canning, including questions such as reusing canning lids, sugar secrets, how to know if a canning recipe is safe, and so much more. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/398.

Join me for today’s Pioneering Today Podcast as I share some behind the scenes from the Modern Homesteading Conference. There were some crazy events that took place, and more than one miracle to share about. If you want to snag your early-bird tickets for next year’s conference, visit modernhomesteading.com and for more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit melissaknorris.com/397.

Join me for today’s Pioneering Today Podcast as I discuss how to set yourself up for the possibility of taking a vacation from the homestead. This doesn’t happen overnight, and there are some systems you may need to get in place. However, from my own experience (and hearing from others) you’ll never regret getting these systems in place because they only make your own life easier for the future. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: melissaknorris.com/396.

Join me for today’s Pioneering Today Podcast as I discuss the benefits and drawbacks of freeze dried vs. dehydrated food. What exactly are the differences between freeze-drying and dehydrating. Are there benefits that outweigh one from the other? Are there certain foods that should or shouldn't be preserved by these methods? Plus, learn the only foods that are shelf-stable when freeze-dried and how this can be a game changer when it comes to stocking a well-supplied pantry or long-term food storage supply. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: melissaknorris.com/395.

Join me for today’s Pioneering Today Podcast as I’m joined by Joe from Premier 1. We’re talking about everything you need to know to get started with electric fence netting. If you’ve been using netting for years, you’ll still want to catch today’s episode as there were tips I learned after three years of using this electric netting myself. We’re sharing tips for setting up nets to keep out specific predators, how much fence you need, the size of the energizer needed, battery life and so much more. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: melissaknorris.com/394.

Join me for today’s Pioneering Today Podcast as I discuss the pros and cons of home electric pressure and water bath canners. Are they safe? Should we trust them? How do we know whether to pressure or water bath can specific items? Are there items you cannot safely can? And whether or not you’ll find an electric canner in my kitchen. All this and more on today’s episode of the podcast. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: melissaknorris.com/393.

Join me for today’s Pioneering Today Podcast as I catch you up on all the happenings around here, including some of the decision-making processes we go through to determine the livestock we'll raise each year and whether or not we’re raising pigs again. I’m also sharing some fun updates on the Norris Farmstead and ways you can get involved with either a Farm Stay, or some in-person workshops this year. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: melissaknorris.com/392.

Join me for today’s podcast with guest Joel Salatin as we discuss mRNA in livestock and how that translates into our food supply. Learn how “organic” doesn’t mean you’re safe from vaccines in your food. Plus hear Joels top two tips for how we can take an active role in raising our own livestock, or sourcing from local farmers using his motto, “Know your farmer, know your food.” For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: melissaknorris.com/391.

In today’s podcast, my guest Katie Millhorn from Millhorn Farmstead in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho is sharing her knowledge of A2 raw milk and it’s healing and transformative power. She’s seen first hand the healing it can have on a person with an autoimmune disease, and now owns and operates one of the largest raw milk dairy farms in Idaho with her family. She’s also my partner for the Modern Homesteading Conference that will be held in North Idaho this year (June/July 2023). Get tickets here https://modernhomesteading.com/ For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: melissaknorris.com/390.

In today’s podcast, my guest Stephanie Haglund from The Rancher’s Homestead and I are discussing the various ways to consume beef liver and mask the taste to reap the amazing health and nutritional benefits. Both Stephanie and I had to learn the hard way from eating a standard American diet which led to severe health issues. It’s our hope to share our stories so you don’t have to learn the hard way. Come learn all about this nutrient-dense superfood and what it can do for you and your health. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: melissaknorris.com/389.

One of the most commonly asked questions I get is how does someone start homesteading. I get this question from people who already have their forever homestead, and from people who don’t yet have that property. Truth be told, there’s a LOT you can be doing to prepare yourself for this modern homesteading lifestyle right now, no matter where you live. From an apartment in the city, to 40 acres on a homestead, there are skills you can be learning and mastering that will bring you in to this modern homestead life. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: https://melissaknorris.com/388.

Homeschooling, though once a very unconventional method of schooling, has seen a comeback in the past few years. Join me in today’s podcast episode with Kody Hanner, from The Homestead Education, where we discuss the various methods of schooling our children. We’ll look at the differences of public school vs. homeschool and why no two homeschools look the same. And we’ll also discuss Kody’s curriculum that she’s written for homeschooling and non-homeschooling families alike. For more information and any links mentioned in this episode, visit: https://melissaknorris.com/387.