Old Fashioned On Purpose

No matter how much my life shifts, I suppose I will always be the woman who starts seeds in late winter. Even in the midst of deep uncertainty. In this episode, I’m sharing what starting over looks like in my new garden. I’ll walk you through the new space, the first steps I’m taking to build a garden from scratch, and the goals I have for it both now and for the future. I’m sure these plans will shift and evolve over the coming months, but for now, this is where I’m beginning. Podcast Episod...

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2026

In this deeply personal podcast episode, I’m sharing about walking through the biggest life transition I’ve ever faced. I reflect on how I got here, the vulnerability of being cracked open, and the strange mix of grief, relief, fear, and hope that can all exist at once. I also explore what not to say to someone in a tender season, how we often project our own stories & expectations onto other people’s lives, and why big transitions rarely fit neatly with cultural desires. This is my open ...

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2026

Today, I’m exploring the power of identity and how it shapes us, anchors us, and sometimes quietly begins to confine us. Even the identities that are good and meaningful can become cages when we cling to them too tightly or start to outgrow the version of ourselves they were built around. In this episode, I unpack how to recognize when an identity is supporting you versus trapping you, the questions worth asking when everything starts to feel different, and the very real grief that can come w...

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2026

Learning to rope at 40 has humbled me in all the best and worst ways, because nothing exposes your ego faster than being a beginner in front of people who’ve been doing something their whole lives. In this episode, I’m talking about a phrase I’ve been repeating to myself in the branding pen: embarrassment is the cost of entry. We’ll explore what this phrase means, why so many of us feel threatened by embarrassment, our addictions to competence, the messy stage of growth, and the wonderful rew...

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2026

In this podcast episode, I’m sharing what I’d do if I were starting an online business from scratch in 2026. I'll chat about my own business story, what’s changed in the online world, and the core principles I believe still matter most. If you’ve been dreaming about starting an online business of your own, this episode should give you some tips and encouragement as you start your own business adventure. Podcast Episode Highlights: Thoughts on making online businesses (and my own)My personal o...

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2026

In this podcast episode, I’m sharing details on how I’m cooking these days. I'll explain why rigid recipes and traditional meal plans just don’t work well for our full, ever-changing family life. We’ll talk about the strategies and principles I lean on instead, including how to make peace with a more flexible approach to food, and why giving yourself permission to experiment can be so freeing. I’m also diving into the art of using leftovers creatively, wasting less, and building meals from wh...

Transcribed - Published: 6 April 2026

In this podcast episode, I'm going to share the books that have been most impactful on my life. I’ve read a lot of books over the years, but these are the ones that truly changed me. They influenced how I see the world, how I make decisions, and even how I understand myself. Podcast Episode Highlights: These books have been impactful to me (and why)The Devil's Element by Dan Egan10x Is Easier Than 2x by Benjamin Hardy and Dan SullivanBraving the Wilderness by Brené BrownNourishment by F...

Transcribed - Published: 30 March 2026

After reviving the oldest operating soda fountain in the state of Wyoming, I can tell you firsthand that there is something deeply meaningful about bringing an old place back to life. Yet, like most things we romanticize from a distance, it’s usually a whole lot less romantic up close. Since buying the soda fountain five years ago, I’ve had a lot of people ask about following in my footsteps. So in this podcast episode, I pulled together a few of the lessons that I feel are the most important...

Transcribed - Published: 23 March 2026

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about what old-fashioned living might look like for me in the coming year and beyond. I’ve been considering which skills and rhythms I want to embrace, and which ones I need to release. In this podcast episode, I’m sharing that thought process with you. My hope is that it helps you take stock of your own life and figure out which parts of the old-fashioned lifestyle you truly love, and which parts you may be holding onto simply because you think you should. Po...

Transcribed - Published: 16 March 2026

For the first time in almost 20 years, I'm not planting a garden. In this podcast episode, I'm sharing what happened in my garden last year and why I'm taking a break. I'll also share some deep thoughts about obligation and what I'm going to do with my garden space for the upcoming season. Podcast Episode Highlights: Quick review of my 20 years of gardeningWhat happened to me last yearThe issue with obligationThe issue with raised bedsMy plans for the garden this yearHow I'm using my greenhou...

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2026

I’ve been wanting to talk about this for a while…but the risk of sounding like a crotchety old gatekeeper, I haven’t… In this podcast episode, I'm sharing my thoughts on what happened to the modern homesteading movement and why I've been feeling so turned off by it lately. Podcast Episode Highlights: The problem in the homesteading world right nowMy backstory and why I care about this topicModern homestead beginningsStages of the homestead movementHow the internet influenced homesteadin...

Transcribed - Published: 2 March 2026

If you’ve been listening or following me for a while, then you already know that horses have been a love of mine since childhood. In this podcast episode, listen in as I talk about my horse journey, from childhood to present times. Along the way, I'll sprinkle in lots of deep thoughts on life lessons as well as ALL the details of my horse adventures (and what's coming next). Podcast Episode Highlights: Way back at the beginningJake, my first horseChoosing my college pathPost-college burnoutKi...

Transcribed - Published: 23 February 2026

I’ve never really belonged. Not in the dramatic, “nobody understands me” way. More in the quiet, lifelong way—like I’ve always been standing half a step outside of whatever circle I’m supposed to slide into. But I’ve finally realized something that would have shocked my younger self: Not belonging isn’t a problem. It’s an invitation. Listen in to my podcast episode to learn more about my thoughts on the magic of not belonging. Podcast Episode Highlights: My life journey with not belongingMy r...

Transcribed - Published: 16 February 2026

As some of you know by now, I am no longer homeschooling my kids. In this podcast episode, I'm talking all about our homeschool experiences, our journey from homeschool to public school, how I'm handling the change, and some of my deep thoughts and concerns that I have about school and about raising kids. Give it a listen and let me know what you think. Podcast Episode Highlights: Homeschooling backgroundOur homeschooling routineWhy we went from homeschool to public schoolHomeschooling ...

Transcribed - Published: 9 February 2026

I'm now going on five years of owning a restaurant in one of the smallest towns in Wyoming. It’s one of the most gratifying things I’ve ever done. It’s also one of the most exhausting. I’m proud of what we’re building in our little corner of Wyoming. I’m proud of the food. I’m proud of the place. I’m proud that people walk in and feel nostalgia, comfort, a sense of belonging… a remembering. But in this podcast episode, I’m going to say the parts I usually don’t say out loud because, well… I f...

Transcribed - Published: 2 February 2026

In the past, I've shared about mainly the homestead part of myself on this podcast. Not because I was hiding the rest of me—but because the rest didn’t really fit the homestead narrative. But lately… it’s been shifting. The homestead part of me is still woven into my days, but it’s not the headline anymore. It’s moved to the background, and other parts of me are finally coming up for air. So this feels like the perfect time for a reintroduction and a closer look at some of my rough edge...

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2026

Folks always ask me how I "do it all" but the truth is, that I don't. Listen in as I talk about I do NOT have a balanced life and what I do instead. Podcast Episode Highlights My thoughts on 'balance' in lifeMy summer as an exampleDealing with guilt and the aftermath Learning how to say 'No'Thoughts on using a team for helpDetails on how I use my planner Final thoughtsResources Mentioned in This Podcast Episode: Find my Old-Fashioned on Purpose planner here: http://www.prairieplanne...

Transcribed - Published: 8 December 2025

Hey friends, I’m Back! (Sorta). I thought I'd share some of my deep thoughts on why I've been quiet lately and what you can expect from me in the future. Listen in as I share updates on my life as well as my shifting perspectives on homesteading, purpose, and more. Podcast Episode Highlights The reason that I've been quiet for six months...A personal shift in my lifeDeep thoughts about my online presenceShifting from mentor to connectionMy shifting opinions on "homesteading" these daysTransit...

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2025

Homesteading has seasons—sometimes it's front and center, and other times it takes a backseat. In this episode, I’m sharing how our life looks different right now, why that’s okay, and how I’ve made peace with the inevitable FOMO. We’ll chat about the honeymoon stage of homesteading, shifting priorities, and the simple ways I’m keeping it woven into our daily life, even when it’s not the main focus. If you’ve ever felt guilty for stepping back, this one’s for you! Podcast Episode Highli...

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025

When we start gardening, it’s easy to focus on the plants—but what if we’re missing the bigger picture? Today, I’m chatting with Gregg Forster of Wisconsin Mineral Solutions about why soil health is the key to nutrient-dense food and thriving farms. We dive into how industrial agriculture has depleted our food’s nutritional value, what homesteaders might be getting wrong, and the simple changes that can make a big difference. Whether you’re growing a backyard garden or running a farm, t...

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

Ever wondered if raised beds are really worth the hype? In this episode, I sit down with Scott Wilson from Gardening with Scott to dig into the good, the bad, and the surprising when it comes to raised bed gardening. We chat about how to build beds from free/cheap materials, how to fill beds without breaking the bank, how to keep soil healthy year after year, watering strategies, and some genius hacks for getting the most out of every square foot. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or j...

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

In this episode, I welcome back Mike Vaona, the engineer-turned-baker behind Rosehill Sourdough, to chat about his recent deep dive into fresh-milled flours. We cover a range of topics, from tweaking hydration levels and the surprising effects of oxidation to the differences between ancient, heritage, and modern wheats. Mike also shares his thoughts on nutrient loss over time, his favorite gluten-free flour, and best practices for baking with fresh-milled flour. This is one deep dive yo...

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

In this episode, I chat with Mimi Smith-Dvorak, author of Too Many Eggs, a cookbook packed with over 800 ways to use eggs. We dive into the history of eggs, the current egg drama, creative ways to use up a surplus (including flavoring them in the shell!), storage tricks, and even some unexpected non-culinary uses. If you’ve ever found yourself with more eggs than you know what to do with, this episode is for you! Podcast Episode Highlights A closer look at Mimi's cookbookFeeding the chi...

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025

If you live in a cold northern area, you may have assumed growing fruit and nuts was out of the question, but I'm happy to tell you that it's not! In this episode, I chat with St. Lawrence Nurseries about the best cold hardy fruit and nut tree varieties, common planting mistakes, and essential care tips for success. We cover watering, fertilizing, pruning, and more to help you cultivate a thriving orchard—even in harsh winters. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced grower, this ep...

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

What if the light around you is messing with your health more than you realize? In this episode, the amazing Johnna Sutton of Sutton Nutrition is back to talk about how artificial light, blue light exposure, and circadian rhythms impact our energy, sleep, and overall well-being. We dive into how to adjust your routine with the seasons, why cold winter temps are good, and practical steps to use light to have more energy and better sleep. If you've ever felt out of sync but couldn't figur...

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

In this episode, I sit down with Noelle Johnson, aka the AZ Plant Lady and author of Water Smart Gardens, to uncover practical tips for making your garden more water-efficient without sacrificing beauty or productivity. We dive into time-saving watering strategies, the best veggies to grow in dry climates, creative rainwater collection ideas, and whether your lawn really deserves all that water. If you're ready to grow smarter, not harder, this conversation is packed with advice you won...

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

Curious about foraging but not sure where to begin? In this episode, I chat with Whitney of Appalachian Forager about the essentials of starting your foraging journey, including how to get started foraging, how to safely identify wild mushrooms, best practices for preparing them, and tips for preserving your harvest. Whether you're a beginner or looking to deepen your connection with the wild, Whitney is a wealth of wisdom! Podcast Episode Highlights Beginner tips for people new to fora...

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025

In this episode, I chat with Dana K. White, author and creator of A Slob Comes Clean, about the surprising connections between decluttering and homesteading. We dive into Dana’s practical strategies, including the Container Concept and her no-mess decluttering method, to help you create a more functional and peaceful home. Whether you’re managing a homestead or just tackling everyday clutter, Dana’s tips will inspire you to simplify and reclaim your space. Podcast Episode Highlights Dan...

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025

Why bother? It's a question I've certainly asked myself, and perhaps you have too. In an age where cheap, convenient food is everywhere, why take the time to cook from-scratch? Is it worth it? Are we wasting our time and fooling ourselves? In this episode, we're exploring this question as I share an excerpt from my book, Old-Fashioned on Purpose. It’s a heartfelt reminder of why home cooking still matters, even in today’s world of convenience and industrial ingredients. Podcast Episode Highli...

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025

As homesteaders, we often focus on sourcing high-quality, real food—but what about understanding how to truly fuel our bodies? In this episode, I sit down with Johnna Sutton, a functional nutritionist and seasoned homesteader, to discuss the finer points of macronutrients and how they fit into a seasonal, whole-food lifestyle. From balancing protein, fats, and carbs to adjusting your diet for the seasons and life stages, Johnna explains how this often-overlooked knowledge can help homes...

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

2025 is already shaping up to be full of surprises. In this episode, I’m sharing some unexpected goals I’ve set for the year ahead. From new adventures to shifting priorities, these plans might just inspire you to rethink what’s possible for your own journey. Tune in for a candid conversation about growth, taking risks, and embracing the unexpected. Podcast Episode Highlights Looking back at my past goals...Goal #1: FoodGoal #2: CommunityGoal #3: The Soda FountainGoal #4: Homestead tho...

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025

2024 was nothing like I expected—but somehow, it turned out even better than I could have hoped. It was a rollercoaster of a year, filled with some of the hardest lessons I’ve faced so far. While it wasn’t always easy, looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. In this episode, I’m sharing the challenges, struggles, and valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way. Tune in to hear the journey! Podcast Episode Highlights My predictions of 2024 failed...The book that influenced me this yearO...

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2024

In this episode, I sit down with Bob Quinn, a Montana farmer and the driving force behind Kamut wheat, to chat about his journey from conventional farming to becoming a pioneer in regenerative agriculture. We dive into the story of how he rediscovered this ancient grain, Kamut's healing properties, and the creative ways he's helped to boost the economy of his small rural community. Bob’s passion for farming and his vision for a better food system will leave you inspired and hungry for c...

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2024

In this episode I'm joined by Melissa Dowbiggin, the Sugar-Free Coach and founder of Be Free and Eat. I learned so much from this conversation! Listen in to learn how to tell if you are dealing with a sugar addiction (it's more prevalent than you think!), the surprising reasons our body's crave sugar, how to overcome the cravings, which natural sweeteners are best, and lots more! Podcast Episode Highlights The effects of sugar on our bodiesGenetics and addiction connectionHistory of pro...

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2024

In this episode, I’m sitting down with David Stelzer, the founder of Azure Standard, to get real about what’s in our food. We dive into the hot topics of glyphosate, GMOs, and other hidden ingredients that many of us unknowingly consume. David sheds light on what we should be avoiding and why, plus he shares tips for making cleaner, healthier choices. It’s an eye-opening chat that’ll make you think twice about what’s in your pantry! Podcast Episode Highlights The background of David and...

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2024

Wyoming has been on fire lately... and while our homestead hasn't been in danger, we've had plenty of grassfires in our surrounding area. As such, I've been thinking a lot about how we can better prepare our property, our animals, and ourselves in the event of a fire. I'm joined today about wildfire mitigation specialist Madison Huges to discuss this and more. Join us as she shares how we can prepare our homesteads for fire, how to create an evacuation plan for our animals, the benefits...

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2024

A homestead is full of moving parts and when you combine that with the complexity of typical modern life, well... things get complicated fast. As our life has become more full over the years, I've learned to lean heavily on my planner to keep all the balls in the air. Today I'm getting specific and sharing my most useful rhythms and routines for using a planner to keep our busy life flowing. Podcast Episode Highlights How I 'live and die' by my planner2 ways I use my plannerMy vision-casting ...

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2024

Curiosity is an underrated skill, especially when it comes to exploring topics that challenge our comfort zones. Today, I'm joined by one of my favorite content creators, Will Reusch—a brilliant educator who brings nuance to tough conversations. If you're looking to build bridges, tired of social media’s polarization, or want to encourage critical thinking in your kids, this episode is for you! Podcast Episode Highlights Will's backgroundSome thoughts about the education systemPondering...

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2024

What can history teach us about planting our gardens TODAY in 2024? In this episode, we sit down with Carol, the editor in chief of The Old Farmer’s Almanac, to explore the ancient practice of gardening by the moon. We dive into the best cold-hardy plant varieties (cold-hardy kiwis, anyone?), tips for dealing with unpredictable weather, and how to use the almanac to plan ahead for a successful growing season. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this episode is pa...

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2024

We homesteaders often joke about our farms being our gym, but what do you do when homestead chores are causing you pain? And how can we ensure that we stay physically fit as long as possible to keep pursuing this lifestyle we love so much? Functional Strength and Fitness Coach Rory O'Brien is joining me today to answer these questions and more. We talk about how our modern muscles can suffer from "amnesia," a 10-15 minute routine you can weave into your busy days, how to build a minimalist ho...

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2024

Our life is.... weird and different. We're entering a season that I never saw coming, yet it's wonderful in it's own way. However, it's taken me a while to come to terms with it. In today's personal episode, I'm sharing what I've been wrestling with lately, as well as giving updates on the soda fountain, our beef company, and more. Podcast Episode Highlights Personal updatesDeep thoughts on the seasons...The shifts and seasons happening in our lives right nowThe new word of the year for...

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2024

If your kitchen counters are currently covered in garden veggies like mine, this is the episode for you! We're talking all things tomatoes today: from how to make fresh sauce, to making tomato powder, to the controversary surrounding canning practices, to my favorite versatile sauce and so much more! Podcast Episode Highlights My thoughts on growing tomatoes...Ripening green tomatoesWhat to do when you're getting just a handful of tomatoes at a timeWhat to do when you're getting buckets of to...

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2024

"I'll never be able to afford a homestead!" It's one of the most common pain points I'm hearing right now and for good reason: the real estate market is tricky. I'm happy to be joined by Anna Young today. She's a loan officer with Rural 1st and specializes in helping rural folks find the property of their dreams. We discuss interest rates, the volatile market, plus lot sof actionable strategies for getting closer to becoming a land owner. Don't miss this one! Podcast Episode Highlights ...

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2024

How do you keep all the balls in the air when you're a multi-faceted homesteader? In this episode I'm sharing my most-used strategies for managing life as a homeschool mom, content creator, rancher, business owner, restaurant owner, and more. (Plus, the 2025 planner is HERE-- get the details at the end of the episode!) Podcast Episode Highlights How our lives have been lately...Planning ahead is the keyThe importance of brain dumpingProject mappingWrite everything downMake sure your meals are...

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2024

We've talked about goats... we've talked about cattle... but we've NEVER talked about dairy SHEEP. That's changing today with this enlightening conversation with Rachel Hester of Whoopsy Daisy Farm. If you love being a pioneer in new industries, or are looking for a smaller dairy animal with LOTS of potential, this episode is for you! Podcast Episode Highlights Why you might want to consider dairy sheepIdeal number of sheep for beginnersCommon breeds of dairy sheepA closer look at the f...

Transcribed - Published: 26 August 2024

"What are you using for homeschool curriculum this year??" I don't consider myself a homeschool content creator, but I'm always happy to share my favorite books and studies. Find out what I'm using for this coming year, plus an important plea to any homeschooling families. Podcast Episode Highlights How I'm a homeschool minimalistWhy we aren't dogmatic about our homeschool curriculumOur kids and their schooling this yearMy thoughts on homeschooling older kids/teensMy thoughts and pleas ...

Transcribed - Published: 19 August 2024

For several years, I’ve been asking myself… how can we close our chicken loop? And by that, I mean how can I reduce the outside inputs in our home food production. It's easier said than done when it comes to livestock, BUT I've hatched a new plan for our chicken operation and I'm excited to share it with you. Listen in to hear me answer the question: "What is the BEST dual-purpose breed?" along with the breed I decided upon and how I plan to close our chicken loop once and for all (mayb...

Transcribed - Published: 12 August 2024

Looking for a bit of redemption after a less-than-stellar growing season? Want to reduce the pressure to preserve ALL the food right NOW? A fall garden can offer all of this and more and it's one of my secret weapons for growing more food with less stress. The time to start your fall crops is NOW-- join me to talk about what plants are best, some of my biggest mistakes, and how you can start your own fall garden no matter where you live. Podcast Episode Highlights First thoughts on fall...

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2024

I never get tired of talking about sourdough, ESPECIALLY when it comes to ways to bake it more efficiently! Today I'm joined by Mike from Rosehill Sourdough to dive into some of the common pitfalls in the sourdough world that are costing you time and flour. I love Mike's engineer perspective and he gave me a lot of new ideas to chew on including sifting whole wheat flour, his rule-breaking method of adding salt, why you should let your whole wheat flour age, and more! Podcast Episode H...

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2024

Cooking for larger groups used to stress me out SO much, but over the years, I've honed my skills in putting food on the table for big groups WITHOUT spending all day in the kitchen. In today's episode I'm sharing a few of my favorite old-fashioned strategies for cultivating community with food. Podcast Episode Highlights How cooking for large crowds is an old-fashioned ideaGoal #1: Staying in the action despite being in the kitchenGoal #2: Not expensive, still tasty, and not stressfulT...

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2024