The Homestead Education Podcast

Kody Hanner
  • 4.8 (20)
  • How To
  • Updated Weekly

Everyone deserves an agricultural education — to understand food, land, and responsibility at a scale that fits real life. Hosted by Kody Hanner, agricultural educator, homeschool mom of six, and lifelong rural advocate, The Homestead Education Podcast explores how accessible, small-scale agricultural education can build capable people, strengthen families, and create resilient local food systems. Drawing from generations of rural knowledge, educated in animal science, and years of teaching families outside traditional systems, Kody breaks down complex food and education topics into practical, usable skills for homes, classrooms, and communities. Each week, you’ll hear honest conversations about food systems, small-scale agriculture, homeschooling, and real-world education — designed for families, educators, and anyone who believes we shouldn’t outsource our lives. Whether you live on acreage, in town, or somewhere in between, this podcast will help you understand where your food comes from, why it matters, and how practical agricultural knowledge can create meaningful change.

  1. May 26

    Episode 175: Mastering Family Preparedness | A Practical Guide from Rustic Homestead Living

    In this episode, Alex and Ashley Johnson from Rustic Homestead Living share practical insights on how families can effectively prepare for emergencies—big or small. Whether you're stockpiling food or organizing your emergency plan, their advice makes preparedness accessible and actionable for everyone. Key topics: The evolution of homesteading into emergency preparedness education How to customize 72-hour kits for individual family members and different environments Rotating and using food storage to prevent waste and spoilage The importance of a written preparedness plan and binder organization How to incorporate long-term and short-term strategies, including food storage, medical supplies, and communication tools Teaching skills to make the most of available ingredients and resources Tips for storing supplies securely against pests and degradation Community classes and in-person resources for hands-on learning The mindset of continuous growth and learning in preparedness and homesteading Resources & Links: Rustic Homestead Living Website: https://rustichomesteadliving.com/ Preparedness Binder & Resources: https://rustichomesteadliving.com/store/books-resources/ Start Here: The 7-Day Homestead Preparedness Blueprint helps you build your foundation for self-sufficiency in one week https://rustichomesteadliving.com/start-here/ Connect with Alex & Ashley: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rustichomesteadliving/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/rustichomesteadliving Kody's Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

    33 min

  2. May 19

    Episode 174: The Power of Rural America: Amanda Radke on Reclaiming the Food Narrative

    In this episode, Amanda Radke shares her journey as a fifth-generation cattle rancher, passionate educator, and advocate for the real stories of American agriculture. She discusses how direct-to-consumer beef sales, land rights, and truthful storytelling are shaping the future of rural America, inspiring producers and consumers alike. Main Insights: Amanda’s background as a South Dakota rancher and author of children’s books about farming. The significance of direct-to-consumer platforms like Bid on Beef in reconnecting rural producers with urban buyers. How COVID-19 revealed vulnerabilities in global food supply chains and the opportunity for local, relationship-based food systems. The monopolization of the beef supply chain by large packers and foreign ownership, and the need for stronger farmer advocacy. The role of land rights and property preservation amid policies favoring foreign-backed projects such as carbon pipelines. The importance of grassroots activism, local government engagement, and courageous advocacy in protecting American farmland. How region-specific animal husbandry practices, like rotational grazing and grain finishing, reflect the diversity of U.S. agriculture. Addressing misconceptions about antibiotics, environmental impact, and industry labels, emphasizing transparency and consumer education. Amanda’s perspective on “keep growing” — prioritizing faith, family, and long-term sustainability over short-term gains. Resources & Links: Amanda Radke's Website: https://amandaradke.com/ The Heart of Rural America Podcast: https://apple.co/3BoFh0N Bid on Beef: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-heart-of-rural-america/id1698761477 American Land and Legacy: https://americanlandandlegacy.org/ Connect with Amanda Radke: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandaradke Kody's Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation

    52 min

  3. May 5

    Episode 173: Growing a Food Community: Insights from Susan Poizner on Fruit Tree Care and Community Orchards

    In this episode, Susan Poizner shares her journey into urban orchards, emphasizing the importance of understanding and caring for fruit trees. Her insights are especially valuable for community groups, schools, and individuals committed to food resilience and ecological harmony. Key Topics The crucial minimums needed to keep fruit trees healthy and productive How to select climate-appropriate fruit trees and the importance of native and disease-resistant cultivars The role of community orchards in building sustainable food systems Community-driven strategies for orchard maintenance, pest management, and soil health Practical tips for planting, spacing, and protecting young trees The emotional and ecological bonding with trees as living beings How to integrate food growing into small spaces, urban environments, and large properties The legacy aspect of perennial trees and their role in family and community traditions The influence of rootstocks—dwarf vs. full-size and their implications for care Strategies for pest and disease control using organic methods like dormant sprays Susan Poizner’s Resources & Links Susan Poizner’s Website Growing Urban Orchards Book Designing a Fruit Tree Garden Fruit Tree Grafting Book Organic Dormant Sprays Orchard Nurseries & Resources Connect with Susan Poizner LinkedIn Twitter Podcast: Orchard Conversations Kody Hanner’s Resources & Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation Final thoughts: This episode underscores that caring for fruit trees is not just about harvesting—it's about building relationships with nature, nurturing community, and fostering resilience for future generations. Whether you have a backyard or a large farm, adopting a thoughtful approach rooted in ecological mindfulness can transform your space into a thriving food forest.

    55 min

  4. Apr 28

    How to Teach Kids Real-Life Learning | Homesteading, Trades, & Purpose-Driven Learning

    Homesteading and education aren’t just about what you know or how much you can produce. They’re about the mindset, skills, and real-life experiences that shape how you live, work, and contribute to the world around you. And the truth is, more families than ever are questioning traditional education… but many aren’t sure what to replace it with or how to confidently teach their kids real-world skills. In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Daniel Salatin of Polyface Farm to have an honest, practical conversation about learning outside the classroom, building a life through agriculture, and raising kids who are capable, confident, and ready for real life. From growing up on one of the most well-known regenerative farms to struggling in traditional academics, Daniel shares how hands-on learning, problem-solving, and purpose-driven work shaped his life and why those same principles matter now more than ever. Together, they talk about what education actually needs to look like, how kids learn best, and why real-life responsibility may be the missing piece for so many families today. This isn’t just a conversation about farming or homeschooling. It’s about raising a generation that knows how to think, work, and contribute. If you care about: Raising capable, confident kids Teaching real-life skills through everyday experiences Homeschooling with purpose (not pressure) Preparing kids for the real world—not just tests Building problem-solving and critical thinking skills Creating a lifestyle rooted in responsibility and contribution This episode will challenge how you think about education and remind you what actually matters. In This Episode, We Cover: Daniel’s upbringing on Polyface Farm and his homeschool journey Why traditional education doesn’t work for every child The importance of problem-solving over memorization How real-life responsibility creates motivation to learn Finding your life’s calling and building a purpose-driven career Why agriculture and homesteading create natural learning environments The transition into leadership at Polyface Farm Inside the Polyface Stewardship Program and full farm immersion training The value of mentorship, trades, and hands-on experience How learning often happens faster when there’s a real reason behind it 🤝 Support Our Guest — Daniel Salatin If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to learn more about Daniel and Polyface Farm. 🌱 Learn more on the Polyface Farm website 🎓 Explore the Polyface Farm Stewardship Program (applications open each August) 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Polyfacefarm 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polyfacefarm/   Resources & Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation 🔥 Final Thought Education doesn’t require perfect systems, perfect curriculum, or perfect timing. It starts with a decision—to teach differently, to live intentionally, and to give your kids the skills they actually need. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about what they memorize… It’s about who they become.

    57 min

  5. Apr 21

    How to Build a Homestead from Scratch | Lifestyle, Gardening & Real-Life Skills

    Homesteading isn’t just about land, animals, or how much you can produce. It’s about the mindset, lifestyle, and intentional choices behind how you live. And the truth is, more people than ever are craving a slower, more self-sufficient life… but many feel like they don’t have enough land, time, or experience to even begin. In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Mary Lewis — host of A Tiny Homestead Podcast & Grit and Graceland in the Heartland Podcast to have an honest, real-life conversation about what homesteading actually looks like day-to-day. From starting a homestead later in life to navigating gardening challenges, empty nesting, and building a life rooted in purpose, Mary shares her journey of stepping away from “city living” and into a more intentional, self-sufficient lifestyle. Together, they talk about the realities of gardening, raising food, learning new skills, and redefining what it means to “be a homesteader” — whether you have acres of land or just a small backyard. This isn’t just a conversation about homesteading. It’s about learning to live differently with purpose, creativity, and a willingness to grow. If you care about: Starting a homestead later in life Building a self-sufficient lifestyle without overwhelm Growing food in any space (big or small) Learning homesteading skills step-by-step Balancing real life with homestead goals Finding joy in simple, everyday living This episode will remind you that homesteading isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. In This Episode, We Cover: Mary’s journey to starting a homestead at 50 Why homesteading is a mindset, not a measure of land or animals The transition from city living to rural life Real-life gardening challenges (weather, timing, and expectations) How homesteading looks different in every season of life The importance of starting small and building skills over time Balancing homestead work without burnout or overwhelm The role of community in modern homesteading Why learning to cook is a foundational homesteading skill Simple ways to begin growing and preparing your own food 🤝 Support Our Guest — Mary Lewis If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to connect with Mary and follow along with her work. 🎙️ Podcasts: Grit and Grace in the Heartland | A Tiny Homestead 🌐 Website: Grit and Grace in the Heartland 📘 Facebook: Mary Lewis Grit and Grace in the Heartland – Women in Agriculture   Resources & Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation 🔥 Final Thought Homesteading doesn’t require perfect land, perfect timing, or perfect skills. It starts with a decision — to grow, to learn, and to do what you can with what you have. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how much you produce… It’s about the life you’re building.

    53 min

  6. Apr 14

    How to Avoid Burnout in Agriculture | Farming, Mindset & Leadership

    Success in agriculture isn’t just about working harder — it’s about learning how to manage the pressure, responsibilities, and mindset that come with the lifestyle. And the truth is — burnout, overwhelm, and mental exhaustion are affecting more people in agriculture than ever before… but few are talking about how to navigate it well. In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Kacee Bohle — founder of AgriMinds and host of the AgriMinds Podcast — to talk about mindset, burnout, boundaries, leadership, and balancing family life while building a career in agriculture. From growing up on a fourth-generation farm to climbing the corporate ladder in agriculture, Kacee shares her personal journey through burnout, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and ultimately building a business that helps others in the ag industry thrive both personally and professionally. Together, they discuss the challenges of balancing farm life, business ownership, marriage, motherhood, homeschooling, and the constant pressure many in agriculture feel to “do it all.” This isn’t just a conversation about business. It’s about learning how to create a life that aligns with your values — without losing yourself in the process. If you care about: Preventing burnout while building your business or farm Balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and agriculture Setting healthy boundaries in work and family life Leading yourself and others more effectively Navigating mindset struggles in farming and entrepreneurship This episode will encourage you to rethink what success truly looks like — and how mindset impacts every part of your life. In This Episode, We Cover: Kacee’s journey from family farming to corporate agriculture and entrepreneurship Why burnout in agriculture often comes from doing the wrong work at the wrong time How mindset impacts stress, overwhelm, and productivity The importance of boundaries in work, family, and parenting Leadership and communication within farm families and businesses Balancing motherhood, homeschooling, and entrepreneurship Why personal development matters in agriculture 🤝 Support Our Guest — Kacee Bohle If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to connect with Kacee and learn more about AgriMinds. 🎙️ Podcast: AgriMinds Podcast 🌍 Website: http://www.kaceebohle.com/agriminds 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agcoachkacee/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaceebohle Resources & Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation 🔥 Final Thought Burnout doesn’t always come from doing too much — sometimes it comes from doing too much of the wrong thing at the wrong time. Learning how to lead yourself well, set boundaries, and shift your mindset may be one of the most important skills for building a sustainable life in agriculture.

    59 min

  7. Apr 6

    How to Understand What's Happening in Agriculture | Food Systems & Media

    Agriculture isn’t just happening in the fields — it’s happening on the airwaves, in policy conversations, and in the everyday decisions that impact what ends up on our tables. And the truth is — most people have no idea how much is happening behind the scenes… or where to find reliable information when it does. In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with Addison Stoddard — host of the All Things Ag Gal Podcast and farm director for the Kansas Farm and Ranch Radio Network — to talk about the role of agricultural broadcasting and why it still matters more than ever. From early mornings on the radio to breaking down complex topics like fuel, fertilizer, and food supply chains — Addison shares what it really looks like to be the voice delivering ag news to farmers who rely on it daily. From market updates and policy changes to the realities of misinformation on social media — this episode dives into how information is shared, who people trust, and why accurate communication in agriculture is critical. This isn’t just about radio. It’s about understanding where your information comes from — and why it matters. If you care about: Understanding how agricultural news actually reaches farmers The role of media and communication in food systems Breaking down misinformation in agriculture The connection between policy, markets, and your grocery bill Real conversations about sustainability, production, and the future of farming This episode will challenge how you think about agriculture — not just as a practice, but as a system of information, trust, and decision-making. In This Episode, We Cover: What agricultural broadcasting actually is and why it still matters How farmers use daily radio reports to make real-time decisions The role of trust and credibility in ag media How misinformation spreads — and how to navigate it Current challenges in agriculture, from fuel costs to fertilizer shortages What sustainability looks like in real-world farming operations Why communication is one of the most overlooked parts of agriculture 🤝 Support Our Guest — Addison Stoddard If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to connect with Addison and follow her work in agricultural media. 🎙️ Podcast: All Things Ag Gal 🌐 Listen Live: https://nwksradio.net 🌍 Website: https://allthingsaggal.com/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581960825517 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allthingsaggal/   Resources & Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation 🔥 Final Thought Information is one of the most powerful tools we have in agriculture. The more we understand where it comes from — and how to interpret it — the more equipped we are to make decisions that support our families, our food systems, and our future.

    47 min

  8. Mar 31

    How to Turn Tree Sap into Syrup | Homesteading, Food Systems & Self-Sufficiency

    Sugaring isn’t just for the Northeast anymore. And the truth is — there are opportunities for food, resources, and self-sufficiency sitting right in our own backyards… if we’re willing to look a little closer. In this episode of The Homestead Education Podcast, Kody Hanner sits down with David Knudson of Montana Maple Works to talk about the surprising world of tapping trees for syrup in the Western U.S. — and what it really takes to turn sap into something usable, valuable, and even profitable. From tapping city trees to navigating regulations, building a business from scratch, and teaching others along the way — David shares how curiosity turned into a full-blown maple syrup operation, and what that means for homesteaders and families looking to learn new skills. From understanding tree types and sap flow to the reality of how much work goes into a single gallon of syrup — this episode breaks down both the science and the practicality behind it all. This isn’t just about maple syrup. It’s about recognizing the resources around you — and learning how to use them. If you care about: Learning practical, real-life homesteading skills Alternative ways to source sugar and natural resources Small-scale production and turning skills into income Understanding trees, seasons, and natural systems Building resilience and self-sufficiency at home This episode will open your eyes to what’s possible — even in places you might not expect. In This Episode, We Cover: How maple syrup production works — from sap to finished product Why the West hasn’t traditionally tapped trees (and why that’s changing) What types of trees can be tapped beyond sugar maples The realities of sap-to-syrup ratios and production time How David built a business from a simple idea The challenges of regulations and accessing trees Why learning skills like this matters for long-term self-sufficiency 🤝 Support Our Guest — David Knudson If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to connect with David and learn more about tapping trees and syrup production. 🌐 Visit: Montana Maple Works Resources & Links Homestead Education Curriculum: https://thehomesteadeducation.com Shop Books & Resources: https://thehomesteadeducation.com/shop Join the Email List for Resources & Updates: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com/subscribe Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homestead_education Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehomesteadeducation TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/thehomesteadeducation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@homesteadeducation 🔥 Final Thought Sometimes the resources we’re looking for aren’t far away — they’re just unfamiliar. The more we learn to see what’s around us, the more capable we become of providing for ourselves — one skill at a time.

    36 min
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Trailer

4.8
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

Everyone deserves an agricultural education — to understand food, land, and responsibility at a scale that fits real life. Hosted by Kody Hanner, agricultural educator, homeschool mom of six, and lifelong rural advocate, The Homestead Education Podcast explores how accessible, small-scale agricultural education can build capable people, strengthen families, and create resilient local food systems. Drawing from generations of rural knowledge, educated in animal science, and years of teaching families outside traditional systems, Kody breaks down complex food and education topics into practical, usable skills for homes, classrooms, and communities. Each week, you’ll hear honest conversations about food systems, small-scale agriculture, homeschooling, and real-world education — designed for families, educators, and anyone who believes we shouldn’t outsource our lives. Whether you live on acreage, in town, or somewhere in between, this podcast will help you understand where your food comes from, why it matters, and how practical agricultural knowledge can create meaningful change.

Information

  • Creator
    Kody Hanner
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Homestead Education Podcast

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