Homesteading Made Simple is a podcast about practical homesteading skills for real life. Homesteading looks a lot different in real life than it does on the internet, and this podcast is about making it feel doable. I’m Wendi, and each episode focuses on homesteading skills that actually fit into everyday life. We talk about gardening, food storage, food preservation, kitchen skills, preparedness, and self-reliance. The calm, common-sense kind. Not extreme. Not fear-based. You’ll also hear about real estate, land, and choosing homes that support homesteading and self-reliant living. Whether you’re dreaming of land, managing a backyard homestead, or sim...
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Sep 29, 2026 · 45:33
Have you ever wanted to learn something new but talked yourself out of it because you were afraid you wouldn't be good at it? You're not alone! This week, I'm joined by the…
Sep 23, 2026 · 47:45
Have you ever thought you were prepared for an emergency, only to discover that something you were counting on didn't work? That's exactly what happened to Greg Peterson during…
Sep 15, 2026 · 20:30
Why does everything seem to fall apart the minute we stop working on it? It started for me with a red towel. That towel reminded me of a brilliant organization system I created…
Sep 8, 2026 · 42:22
Can someone really look into your eyes and learn something about what’s happening inside your body? I’ve been fascinated by iridology for years, so I invited naturopath and…
Sep 1, 2026 · 25:08
42% of American homesteaders came from zero farming background. No grandparent with a garden, no summer on somebody's farm. Nothing. And 28% of them are doing this on less than…
Aug 25, 2026 · 27:19
When do you actually get to call yourself a homesteader? Is there some committee that sends you a certificate? 😂 I've realized that I have a funny habit of doing the thing and…
Aug 18, 2026 · 27:15
Nobody puts a picture of the barn in the listing and says, "We're not completely sure what's holding this thing up." Buying a homestead is a lot like dating — and today we're…
Aug 11, 2026 · 46:31
Greg Peterson says the only place that lack lives is between our ears — and if you've ever stood in your kitchen staring at 50 pounds of tomatoes, you know he's right. We talk…
Aug 4, 2026 · 21:10
Some days the news is too much. The food industry is working against us, the wars won't stop, the education system is a mess, and there's a phone in your pocket demanding you pay…
Jul 28, 2026 · 25:22
Welcome to BeanTok! Apparently, the internet has finally discovered what homesteaders and prepared families have known for years—beans are pretty amazing. In this episode, we're…
Jul 21, 2026 · 20:20
Ever feel like everyone else has a beautiful planner and a color-coded freezer inventory while you're just... remembering things? A Facebook question about staying organized…
Jul 14, 2026 · 23:14
In this episode you'll learn: Why there isn't one "perfect" emergency food The three layers of a practical food storage system When no-cook meals make the most sense The pros and…
Jul 7, 2026 · 21:04
Have you ever bought something because everyone else said you needed it? This week, Wendi shares the surprising lessons from a heated Facebook discussion asking, "What's the…
Jun 30, 2026 · 20:27
🌟 Highlights & takeaways Celebrate the first one. My first commission check mattered far more than its size — proof I'm doing the thing God called me to do, even when it means…
Jun 23, 2026 · 14:13
Hurricane season is underway, and this replay is your permission slip to prep without the panic. Wendi breaks hurricane readiness into a 12-week countdown to calm — a little at a…
Jun 16, 2026 · 20:22
In today’s episode, we’re talking about peaceful, practical homestead income ideas for real life. Not giant farm empires. Not hustle culture. Not trying to monetize every inch of…
Jun 9, 2026 · 19:47
Wendi shares why she believes old-fashioned kitchen skills are becoming important again as families navigate rising grocery prices, busy schedules, and financial stress. From…
Jun 2, 2026 · 17:23
What if real change doesn’t happen through giant bursts of motivation… but through tiny repeated stitches over time? In this heartfelt and humorous episode, Wendi Bergin shares…
May 26, 2026 · 25:14
Do you ever feel like you’re not accomplishing enough? Like everyone else is moving forward while you’re just trying to survive the laundry, the dishes, the caregiving, the…
May 19, 2026 · 19:35
This week’s episode is a little different. Wendi shares a more serious and realistic conversation about preparedness, rising prices, and the importance of paying attention to…
May 12, 2026 · 18:44
Today we’re keeping herbalism simple. Not “buy 47 jars and memorize Latin names” simple. 😄 Actually simple. In this episode of the Joyfully Prepared Podcast, Wendi shares three…
May 5, 2026 · 9:33
A Story That Changes Everything Wendi shares a personal experience from Hurricane Isabel in 2003 that reshaped how she views preparedness and self-reliance. The Power of Taking…
Apr 28, 2026 · 23:31
Preparedness has a reputation problem. For many people, it feels intense, overwhelming, or even fear-based. But what if preparedness was never meant to feel that way? In this…
Apr 21, 2026 · 59:52
In this episode, I sit down with Judith Horvath to talk about what it really looks like to grow your own food… without overwhelm. What started as trying to help her kids with…
Apr 14, 2026 · 19:36
In today’s episode, Wendi celebrates four years of podcasting with a heartfelt and honest update on life, business, and growth over the past six weeks. She shares: What it’s…
Mar 31, 2026 · 32:31
In This Episode: Why springtime makes everyone want chickens The difference between meat chickens and laying hens The truth about how long it takes to get your first egg Why that…
Mar 24, 2026 · 20:30
A very honest “I forgot sunscreen” moment Why denial sometimes sneaks into our planning Making meaningful memories with family… even when things go wrong What a serious sunburn…
Mar 17, 2026 · 14:58
n this episode, Wendi shares a more pointed but encouraging message about preparedness, responsibility, and community. After hearing people joke for years about showing up at her…
Mar 10, 2026 · 19:15
In this episode, Wendi shares three foundational principles for choosing property for a homestead. Homesteading dreams often begin with land, but many buyers focus on the house…
Mar 3, 2026 · 24:28
Biggest Canning Mistakes I See Every Year Canning competitions aren’t just about ribbons. They’re about courage, skill stacking, community, and stewardship. As Chairperson of the…
Feb 24, 2026 · 49:54
What we cover Why Wendi wanted the survival side of Survivor, not just gameplay The bathroom reality: no toilet paper, “Coconut Grove,” and leaf roulette The pre game survival…
Feb 17, 2026 · 24:18
In This Episode: Why Wendi is identifying as a quilter before making her first quilt The power of practicing simple foundational skills like sewing straight seams Raising and…
Feb 10, 2026 · 37:51
Why we decided to raise our own meat chickens instead of just buying “better” meat How seeing someone else do it made us realize we could try Whether you need land, special…
Feb 3, 2026 · 20:54
When Wendi moved her family to Florida, she left behind something she now deeply misses. Not furniture. Farm tools. That realization became the heart of this episode. In this…
Jan 27, 2026 · 21:08
Why Container Gardening Works Almost Anywhere You do not need land. Or a perfect setup. Just a place to start. Choosing Containers Without Buying Anything New Buckets, bags,…
Jan 13, 2026 · 22:39
Celebrating episode 200 and four years of podcasting Why Wendi started the podcast and what Joyfully Prepared is really about Milling grain and baking whole wheat bread as a…
Jan 6, 2026 · 18:37
Why homesteading is about skills, not land How homesteading looked before it had a trendy name Growing up with a garden, jars on the shelf, and clothes on the line Why…
Dec 30, 2025 · 16:18
Welcome to the last episode of 2025. Instead of forcing goals or rushing a fresh start, we do something softer and more realistic: a homestead reset. We walk through three simple…
Dec 23, 2025 · 23:35
In this episode of The Joyfully Prepared Podcast, I’m sharing what happened when I didn’t hit the goals I set at the beginning of the year and why that didn’t mean the year was a…
Dec 9, 2025 · 13:25
Inside This Episode Why we’re officially starting the new year on February 1 The magic of treating January as a recovery month Why moms need breathing room before setting goals…
Dec 2, 2025 · 15:02
Inside This Episode A warm, real talk about unmet goals Why homesteading is more about mindset than land The honest reasons we get stuck: tiredness, overwhelm, fear,…
Nov 25, 2025 · 21:52
In This Episode • Why gratitude works even when life feels upside down • How gratitude is a skill, not just a personality trait • The difference between reacting and dwelling •…
Nov 18, 2025 · 21:24
In this episode: • Why beans are one of the most budget friendly foods • How beans support digestion, fullness, and steady energy • Why many people avoid beans and how to make…
Nov 11, 2025 · 25:06
🧡 Key Takeaways “Making” is a form of grounding and emotional reset. The kitchen (or any creative space) can become a personal sanctuary. Skill-building strengthens…
Oct 28, 2025 · 17:33
In this episode, you’ll learn: 🌿 What fire cider is and how it supports your immune system 🔥 The healing properties of each ingredient — from garlic’s germ-fighting power to…
Oct 21, 2025 · 13:13
In this episode: [00:00] Sponsored by Soup—itself! [00:01] Why soup is magical (and universal) [00:02] Colonial sailors and the potbelly stove story [00:03] Valley Forge, bread…
Oct 14, 2025 · 18:19
In this episode: How compensating blessings reveal God’s love and timing The connection between self-reliance and divine service Two real-life examples of God using small acts to…
Oct 7, 2025 · 21:35
In this episode, you’ll hear: 🌻 The simple but powerful truth that we all prioritize what we love —and what that reveals about our choices 🧵 Wendi’s real-life story of learning…
Sep 30, 2025 · 17:09
[00:00] A warm welcome to listeners around the globe (still waiting for Antarctica!) [02:00] The stressful lead-up to moving from New Jersey to Florida [08:00] How their Great…
Sep 23, 2025 · 13:08
In this episode, you’ll hear about: The highlights of the East Tennessee Homestead Alliance Festival Skills demonstrated: soap making, yogurt making, candle making, lockpicking,…
Sep 16, 2025 · 19:42
When your child gets sick, it’s easy to feel helpless. But sometimes the best remedies are the simple, old-fashioned ones already in your kitchen. 🌿 In this episode of the…
Sep 9, 2025 · 10:51
New things are happening around here, and I can’t wait to share them with you! In this episode, I’m talking about my upcoming speaking event, the Joyfully Prepared Library, my…
Aug 26, 2025 · 12:08
Do you ever keep a running list in your head to prove how tired you are? Wendi calls it the Proof of Exhaustion List , and in this episode she shares what’s on hers and why we do…
Aug 19, 2025 · 20:30
Life has a way of drifting toward chaos—whether it’s towels in a heap, laundry piling up, or one too many plates wobbling on sticks. In this episode of the Joyfully Prepared…
Aug 12, 2025 · 18:21
Packing lunches every morning. Cooking dinner every night. Which is more stressful? Honestly, it’s a tie—except lunches feel like a daily pop quiz, and dinner is more like a…
Aug 5, 2025 · 17:00
In this episode, you’ll hear: A poetic reframe: hard things as gifts to your future self The herbalist’s story of “We don’t take away—we give” How journaling helped Wendi rewire…
Jul 29, 2025 · 9:59
Episode 179 – Proof You’re Still Doing Great (Even If You Missed a Week) Hey friend—today’s episode is short, honest, and from the heart. I missed releasing an episode last week.…
Jul 17, 2025 · 18:24
✨ What if five minutes at the end of your day could be the most powerful mindset shift you’ll make all week? Today I’m sharing my transformation journal —a simple, four-part…
Jul 8, 2025 · 11:54
In this heartfelt episode, Wendi Bergin opens up about why she chose the name Joyfully Prepared and what being the Joyful Prepper truly means to her. She shares how preparedness…
Jul 1, 2025 · 25:44
When the power goes out, clean water becomes priceless. Today we’re talking about the one thing you can’t live without during hurricane season: water. We’ll break down: How much…
Jun 25, 2025 · 15:06
What if getting prepared didn’t feel overwhelming? This week, I’m walking you through my free 12-Week Hurricane Preparedness Checklist—designed for real families, real budgets,…
Jun 17, 2025 · 16:41
In this episode, we cover: What a 72-hour kit is—and why I call it a Peace of Mind Bag A not-so-hypothetical story about Tic Tacs and no flashlight (you’ll feel seen) What to…
Jun 10, 2025 · 21:08
In this episode: ✅ Wendi’s real-life hurricane prep stories (what worked + what flopped) ✅ Why knowing what you have — and where it is — matters so much ✅ How to prep food for…
Jun 3, 2025 · 18:57
In this episode of Joyfully Prepared, Wendi continues the story she began in part one, opening up about how God helped her reframe her identity and healing journey after a season…
May 27, 2025 · 14:56
In this episode of the Joyfully Prepared podcast, Wendi gets real about the weight of motherhood — and how carrying it all nearly broke her. She shares how she slipped into…
May 20, 2025 · 25:10
What would you grab if you had to leave your home in five minutes? Most moms would panic—and understandably so. That’s why this episode is a gentle, grace-filled walk through…
May 13, 2025 · 16:34
In this episode, Wendi reflects on her own wheat journey—from her mom’s beautiful stone-ground loaves to her own slightly tragic first attempts at homemade bread. With humor and…
May 7, 2025 · 38:30
In this episode of the Joyfully Prepared Podcast, Wendi sits down with Dr. Kaz —a seasoned coach for athletes and executives—to demystify insulin resistance. You'll learn: What…
Apr 30, 2025 · 17:03
In today’s episode, Wendi plays a round of “3 Lies and a Truth” — preparedness style! She’ll walk you through three common myths that keep people stuck or overwhelmed when it…
Apr 23, 2025 · 16:42
When the power goes out, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—especially when hungry kids are staring at you like you’re the generator . In this episode, Wendi shares: What to do in the…
Apr 15, 2025 · 19:02
In This Episode, Wendi Shares: A personal birthday reflection filled with joy, tenderness, and encouragement A message to her younger self—and to every woman feeling stretched…
Apr 8, 2025 · 15:29
In this episode, you’ll learn: What companion planting is (and why it’s not just for garden nerds) Why herbs are the ultimate multitaskers in your garden How to place herbs like…
Apr 1, 2025 · 10:35
Key Points: Insanely Long Shelf Life: Lasts 5–10 years when stored properly—no more tossing forgotten eggs. Always in Stock: Your emergency stash of kitchen gold—never run out of…
Mar 25, 2025 · 17:54
Intro: A gentle reminder that preparedness is about progress, not perfection. The Myth of Perfection in Preparedness: Letting go of unrealistic expectations and appreciating the…
Mar 18, 2025 · 24:41
What We Cover in This Episode: 🍽️ Why wheat, beans, oil, salt & sugar aren’t “enough” on their own 😬 How food fatigue & digestion issues make long-term survival harder 🌾 How…
Mar 11, 2025 · 21:38
🧸 Why Kids Reject Food Storage Meals 📖 Food Neophobia (Fear of New Foods) Kids are wired to resist new foods —it’s a survival instinct! Taste buds are more sensitive, making…
Mar 4, 2025 · 22:50
🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ Why the Minnesota Starvation Experiment proves food fatigue is real ✔️ How Survivor contestants struggle with hunger, yet still refuse…
Feb 25, 2025 · 15:00
Have you ever opened your fridge or pantry, seen random ingredients , and thought, "There’s nothing to eat!" ? You’re not alone! Meal planning and food storage go hand in hand ,…
Feb 18, 2025 · 24:52
What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why elderberries are a must-have plant for your garden ✅ How Wendi started making her own elderberry syrup (and now sells DIY syrup kits!) ✅…
Feb 11, 2025 · 38:47
Guest: Tiffany Donaghu | Founder of Set Apart Organizing Website: setapartorganizing.com Facebook Community: The Organized Home for Kingdom Living Instagram & Facebook:…
Feb 4, 2025 · 22:00
Key Takeaways: The Banter with God: Wendi humorously recounts a conversation where she realizes she just wants to "eat, drink, and be merry" without challenges—but God has a…
Jan 28, 2025 · 18:22
When the weather turns cold, there’s nothing quite like the smell of soup simmering on the stove or fresh bread baking in the oven. In this episode of The Joyfully Prepared…
Jan 20, 2025 · 38:05
In this special episode of Joyfully Prepared, Wendi sits down with Dr. Danielle McGeough, professor, mom, recovering overachiever, and host of the Plan, Goal, Plan podcast.…
Jan 13, 2025 · 17:56
Decluttering Your Kitchen and Simplifying Meal Planning as Self-Care In this episode, Wendi dives into how decluttering your kitchen and simplifying meal planning can be acts of…
Jan 6, 2025 · 24:48
Here to expect on the podcast: Wendy's personal challenges with kitchen management. A systematic approach to decluttering the kitchen, tackling one cabinet at a time. The…
Dec 30, 2024 · 24:23
Here to expect on the podcast: Wendi's journey of personal transformation throughout 2023-2024. How to set goals from your future self's perspective rather than your present…
Dec 23, 2024 · 9:00
Connect with Wendi Bergin! Website: https://joyfullyprepared.com/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/joyfulprep Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyfulprepper/…
Dec 16, 2024 · 31:17
Here to expect on the podcast: Use a journal to record daily wins, transformations, and goals for personal growth. New skills Wendy learn last November. Wendy's spiritual growth…
Dec 9, 2024 · 29:36
Here to expect on the podcast: The importance of learning from failures. Acquiring new skills can enhance your ability to support those around you in difficult times.…
Dec 2, 2024 · 1:07:16
Here to expect on the podcast: Takeaways from being prepared and needing to be prepared. The most critical skills to share when helping others get ready for a hurricane. Avoid…
Nov 25, 2024 · 17:47
Christmas is just around the corner; it's a season filled with joy and festive cheer for many. However, it might surprise you that not everyone shares the same enthusiasm for…
Nov 18, 2024 · 24:57
Here to expect on the podcast: The importance of making space for oneself as a mother. How mothers often play the role of both hero and victim in their families. Practical tips…
Nov 11, 2024 · 17:35
Here to expect on the podcast: Step-by-step instructions on how to access ChatGPT. How ChatGPT can help with meal planning, recipe creation, and food storage. In what ways can…
Nov 5, 2024 · 20:51
Only a few people use thank-you cards these days. However, would you consider creating thank you cards if the opportunity were presented to you? Join Wendi as she discusses a…
Oct 28, 2024 · 27:51
Here to expect on the podcast: The definition of manifesting. Why is manifesting important, and how can it help mothers thrive? The importance of gratitude in the manifesting…
Oct 21, 2024 · 40:11
Here to expect on the podcast: The practical applications of herbs in everyday life. Some tips on preserving herbs for winter include drying, freezing, and making herbal vinegar…
Oct 14, 2024 · 30:25
Here to expect on the podcast: Wendi's reasons for not evacuating. Things to do and prepare for before a tropical storm or hurricane. Stocking up to prepare for a crisis isn't…
Oct 7, 2024 · 22:48
Here to expect on the podcast: Definition of food storage. Common reasons why people find it challenging to create a food storage system. The benefits of having a food storage…
Sep 30, 2024 · 1:15:46
Here to expect on the podcast: The challenges Judith encounters when growing tomatoes. Greg's experience in dehydrating apples and making applesauce. Wendi's food forest and…
Sep 23, 2024 · 19:50
Here to expect on the podcast: In what ways does self-reliance empower us to fulfill our innate desire to serve others? Food storage provides peace of mind for your family and…
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