Advertise on podcast: The Florida Homesteader Podcast

There’s a side of Florida you won’t find along the interstate or inside a theme park. It’s down sandy roads, beneath sprawling oaks and towering pines, and along trails best experienced from the back of a horse. In this episode of The Florida Homesteader Podcast, Jamie Bateman sits down with Kathy Wolfe of Wolfe’s Born to Ride to talk about horses, trail riding, Florida’s natural landscape, and a way of experiencing the Sunshine State that feels a whole lot like Old Florida. Kathy shares her story, her love for horses, and how Wolfe’s Born to Ride gives others the opportunity to slow down, saddle up, and experience a side of rural Florida that many people never get to see. It’s a conversation about more than horseback riding. It’s about our connection to the land, preserving Florida traditions, and appreciating the wild and beautiful places that still remain. Come along with us Where Old Florida Still Rides. For more stories celebrating Florida’s farms, homesteads, people, places, and traditions, visit TheFloridaHomesteader.com. To visit and connect with Kathy, you can visit their website at Wolfesborntoride.com. To follow along with the Florida Cracker Trail Association, visit their Facebook page Florida Cracker Trail, here!

Thinking about starting a homestead in Florida? Or are you already homesteading and looking for ways to improve your soil, grow more sustainably, and work with nature? In this episode of The Florida Homesteader Podcast, Jamie Bateman sits down with Joel Salatin, farmer, author, and regenerative agriculture advocate, to explore what homesteading and regenerative farming look like in Florida. From the challenges of Florida's unique growing conditions to the principles of building a healthier, more productive homestead, Joel shares his perspective on working with nature and approaching agriculture differently. Whether you're growing your first backyard garden, raising livestock, exploring regenerative agriculture, or managing an established homestead, this conversation is for anyone interested in learning more about farming and homesteading in the Sunshine State. Keep growing with The Florida Homesteader! Discover more Florida homesteading stories, practical advice, and inspiration in The Florida Homesteader magazine. Subscribe today at TheFloridaHomesteader.com. Follow The Florida Homesteader Podcast for more conversations about faith, family, farming, regenerative agriculture, and homesteading in Florida. To learn more about Joel and Polyface Farms, visit them at polyfacefarm.com

What happens when you start with an overgrown piece of Florida land, a vision, and the willingness to figure things out as you go? In this episode of The Florida Homesteader Podcast, we sit down with Tina Reynolds, whose story, From Nothing to Everything, was recently featured in the pages of The Florida Homesteader. Tina and her husband, Jimmy, arrived in Putnam County on January 1, 2021, looking for a fresh start. Their property was covered in pine trees and palmettos, and there wasn't a ready-made homestead waiting for them. They cleared the land, lived temporarily with family, and began transforming a metal barn into the unconventional home Jimmy affectionately calls their “Barnaminium.” But Tina's story is about much more than building a home. We talk about starting with what you have, learning along the way, the value of documenting the journey, and how Florida agriculture and homesteading can look very different from one family to another—including Tina's experience in Florida's shrimping industry. It's a conversation about perseverance, resourcefulness and what can happen when you're willing to start—even when you don't have everything figured out. Want to read Tina's full story? From Nothing to Everything is featured in the latest issue of The Florida Homesteader, Florida's first homesteading magazine. Each issue is filled with real Florida farm and homestead stories, gardening tips, recipes, livestock guidance and practical encouragement for building a more community-sufficient life right here in the Sunshine State. Subscribe today and have The Florida Homesteader delivered directly to you in print or enjoy the digital edition wherever you are. Real stories. Real farms. Real Florida living.

What started as a desire to provide healthy food has grown into something much bigger. In this episode of The Florida Homesteader Podcast, we sit down with Spencer Askew of Azure Standard to talk about the mission, faith, and people behind a company that has become a trusted resource for families seeking healthier food and more intentional ways of living. Spencer shares more about Azure Standard's commitment to making healthy food accessible and affordable, the importance of community, and how the company's values continue to guide its growth. We also talk about David Stelzer's upcoming book, Seeds of Hope, which tells the story of Azure Standard, David's journey, and the faith that has remained at the heart of it along the way. If you've ever ordered from Azure Standard, or you've wondered what those delivery trucks and community drop locations are all about, this episode gives you a closer look at the story behind the company and the mission that continues to move it forward. Tune in for a conversation about faith, food, community, and planting seeds of hope for the future. David Stelzer's Book, "Seeds of Hope" Pre-Order Now. Click here to watch one of David's YouTube episodes on wheat. ...and while you're over on YouTube... Subscribe to our channel, The Florida Homesteader to see the families of the magazine share more about their homesteading journeys. Thank you to Azure Standard for being a proud partner of The Florida Homesteader! If you would like to know more about ordering from Azure Standard, click ⁠HERE⁠ and use the promo code JamieBateman1 to get started today! Want to start receiving the magazine delivered straight to your own mailbox? It's easy! Click HERE to get started today!

New World screwworm is a name many livestock owners hoped would remain part of Florida’s past—but its resurgence has brought renewed attention to the importance of knowing what to watch for and how to protect our animals. In this episode of The Florida Homesteader Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Jeff Saunders to talk about New World screwworm, the threat it can pose to livestock and other warm-blooded animals, signs owners should be watching for, and why awareness and early detection matter. Dr. Saunders also shares more about this important topic in the July/August issue of The Florida Homesteader Magazine, giving readers another resource to better understand New World screwworm and its potential impact on Florida agriculture. Whether you raise cattle, goats, sheep, horses, backyard livestock, or simply want to stay informed about issues affecting Florida agriculture, this is a conversation worth hearing. Read more from Dr. Jeff Saunders in the July/August issue of The Florida Homesteader. We are grateful to Citrus Animal Clinic for supporting The Florida Homesteader and helping us continue sharing educational conversations like this one with Florida's farmers and homesteaders. 📍 Citrus Animal Clinic270 US 27 SouthLake Placid, FL 📞 863-465-2176 🌐 citrusanimalclinic.com When you visit or give them a call, be sure to tell them The Florida Homesteader sent you! 🌿 Stay Connected with The Florida Homesteader Subscribe to the magazine: www.thefloridahomesteader.comWatch on YouTube: The Florida HomesteaderFollow The Florida Homesteader PodcastFollow us on Facebook: The Florida Homesteader Follow us on Instagram: @thefloridahomesteader #TheFloridaHomesteader #NewWorldScrewworm #FloridaAgriculture #FloridaLivestock #LivestockHealth #FloridaFarming #Homesteading #Cattle #Goats #AnimalHealth

What if we stopped thinking about a garden as simply a place to grow food? In this conversation, Frankie Flowers shares his unconventional approach to growing crops that can serve a purpose far beyond what ends up on the dinner table.  From plants grown specifically for chop-and-drop, animal feed, food forests, soil building, and garden fertility, Frankie challenges the traditional way we think about what belongs in a homestead garden.  We talk about choosing crops with multiple purposes, working with nature instead of against it, and finding creative ways to make the most of what you grow. Some of the plants Frankie recommends may not be the typical choices you'll find in a backyard garden, but that's exactly what makes his approach so interesting. Whether you're raising animals, building a food forest, improving your soil, or simply looking for ways to make your homestead more productive, this conversation will have you looking at your garden, and what you plant in it, in a whole new way. Sometimes growing outside the lines is exactly what your homestead needs. To connect with Frankie, you're welcome to call or text him at 828-290-3429. To subscribe to The Florida Homesteader magazine, just click here and we'll get this next issue in the mail to you! ⁠https://www.thefloridahomesteader.com

Sometimes the place we feel most at home isn't where we expected to be. In this episode of The Florida Homesteader Podcast, we sit down with Amie Cochran, whose story, Too Country for the City, reminds us that home is about more than a location—it's about living a life that reflects your values, your family, and your calling. Join us as we talk about homesteading, faith, family, and the journey that led Amie to embrace a simpler way of living. Whether you're already living the homestead life or simply dreaming about it, we hope her story encourages you to bloom where you're planted. 📖 Read Amie's full feature story in The Florida Homesteader magazine. 👉 Subscribe today:www.thefloridahomesteader.com Thank you to Toups & Co. for sponsoring today's podcast chat! To learn more, visit www.toupsandco.com

This week we're sharing a conversation from another podcast where Jamie Bateman, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of The Florida Homesteader, was invited to be a guest. In this episode, Jamie shares the story behind the magazine, the mission that inspired its creation, and the heart for encouraging Florida's small farmers, homesteaders, and rural communities. From preserving traditional skills to telling the stories of families making a difference across the state, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at why The Florida Homesteader exists and where it's headed. A special thank you to The Barry Foster Show for the invitation and for allowing us to share this episode with our audience. If you're new here, welcome! We'd love for you to subscribe and join us each week as we celebrate the people, places, and passion that make Florida agriculture so special.  Learn more about The Florida HomesteaderSubscribe to the magazine YouTube Follow us on Facebook & Instagram

What happens when a family decides there's more to life than busy schedules and the daily grind? In this episode of The Florida Homesteader, we visit Hideaway Homestead to hear the story behind their journey, from dreaming about a different way of life to building a thriving Florida homestead centered on family, faith, and purpose. Join us as we walk the property, learn about the lessons they've discovered along the way, and hear how they turned a dream into reality. Whether you're already homesteading or simply wondering if this lifestyle is for you, their story is filled with encouragement, practical wisdom, and a reminder that every homestead begins with one small step. In this episode, you'll discover: Their journey into homesteadingChallenges they faced along the wayWhat they've learned from raising animals and growing foodWhy Florida is a unique place to homesteadEncouragement for anyone thinking about starting Subscribe for new Florida homesteading stories every week.

The unmistakable whistle of a bobwhite quail has long been part of Florida's rural heritage, but today it's becoming harder to hear. In this episode, Colt Wells shares his passion for quail conservation, wildlife habitat, and preserving the traditions that have shaped generations of Floridians. More than a conversation about hunting, this episode explores stewardship, family legacy, and the responsibility we all share in caring for Florida's natural resources. Join us as we discuss the history of the bobwhite, the importance of conservation, and why the call of the covey still echoes through Florida's countryside. If you enjoy stories celebrating Florida's farms, ranches, wildlife, and rural way of life, we'd love to have you join our community. Subscribe for new episodes every week. 📖 Subscribe to the magazine:https://www.thefloridahomesteader.com Follow us: Facebook: The Florida HomesteaderInstagram: @thefloridahomesteader #FloridaHomesteader #BobwhiteQuail #QuailHunting #FloridaWildlife #Conservation #FloridaOutdoors #RuralFlorida #FloridaAgriculture #LandStewardship #Homesteading #TheFloridaHomesteader #OutdoorHeritage #Bobwhite #WildlifeManagement

What happens when a simple desire to create cleaner products for your family grows into a nationally recognized business? In this episode of The Florida Homesteader Podcast, we're joined by Emilie Toups, founder of Toups & Co. Organics, to share the incredible story behind one of today's most trusted names in tallow-based skincare and clean beauty. Emilie shares how her family started making products at home, the challenges and blessings of building a business rooted in faith, and why understanding the ingredients in the products we use every day matters more than ever. Whether you're interested in natural skincare, homesteading, entrepreneurship, or simply love hearing the stories behind family-owned businesses, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom and encouragement. In this episode, we discuss: • The story behind Toups & Co. Organics • Why tallow has become a trusted skincare ingredient • Clean beauty and ingredient awareness • Building a family business • Entrepreneurship and faith • Balancing business, motherhood, and purpose • Encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs As proud partners of Toups & Co. Organics, we're excited to share Emilie's inspiring journey and hope you'll enjoy getting to know the heart behind the company. 👇 Learn more about Toups & Co. Organics by visiting the link: www.toupsandco.com If you enjoyed today's conversation, please Like, Subscribe, and leave a review - it helps us continue sharing real stories from people making a difference in agriculture, homesteading, and rural America. To learn more about The Florida Homesteader and how you can get your own issue delivered straight to your door, visit us here: www.thefloridahomesteader.com Y'all Come Back Now!

Have you ever had a homesteading project turn out completely different than you expected? In this episode of The Florida Homesteader Podcast, we're sharing our journey into raising meat birds - a journey - that actually began with a case of mistaken identity! What we thought were future egg layers turned out to be meat birds, and that unexpected surprise taught us valuable lessons about raising poultry for the table. We discuss: - How we accidentally got started with meat birds - Our feeding routine and caring for birds during the Florida heat - Why a quality chicken plucker was one of the best investments we've made - The challenges of predators and protecting your flock - Lessons we'd share with anyone thinking about raising meat birds for the first time We also give an update on our upcoming Homestead Mercantile and what you can expect as we continue growing our homestead here in Florida. Whether you're considering raising your first batch of meat birds or you're already experienced with poultry, we hope our successes, and our mistakes, help encourage you on your own homesteading journey. Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know! Subscribe for more conversations about Florida homesteading, gardening, livestock, food preservation, faith, and self-sufficient living.

In Part Two of our conversation with Rob Hampton, we continue the remarkable journey that began in the fields of rural Florida. After growing up picking peas and watermelons and learning the value of hard work alongside his great-uncle, Rob's path led him into the United States Marine Corps, through college, and into a career dedicated to helping others succeed. Along the way, the lessons he learned growing up in agriculture never left him, shaping his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to serving others. Join us as Rob shares stories of military service, higher education, career growth, and the mentors who influenced his life. His journey is a reminder that the values learned on the farm often become the foundation for a life of purpose and service. Whether you're passionate about agriculture, leadership, personal growth, or simply enjoy hearing the stories of everyday Floridians making a difference, this conversation is sure to encourage and inspire. 📖 Learn more about The Florida Homesteader Magazine:https://thefloridahomesteader.com And don't forget! Use code ROB and get two of our previous copies in addition to a whole year's subscription! Just head over to the website, subscribe to the magazine, then email us at: [email protected] We'll mail you two additional copies for FREE! 🎙️ Subscribe to The Florida Homesteader Podcast for more conversations celebrating Florida's farmers, ranchers, homesteaders, and agricultural leaders. And check out our YouTube! The Florida Homesteader, where you can see even more great inspiration on Florida homestead living. To connect with Rob, you can email him at: [email protected] #FloridaAgriculture #Leadership #MarineCorps #Agriculture #Homesteading #FloridaHomesteader #RuralFlorida #Mentorship #PersonalGrowth #Podcast

What shapes a person long before they become a leader, mentor, or role model? In Part 1 of this special two-part conversation, Jamie Bateman sits down with Rob Hampton to discuss the experiences, values, and lessons that helped shape him into the man he is today. Growing up in an agricultural family, Rob learned the importance of perseverance, hard work, determination, responsibility, and respect—lessons that have stayed with him throughout his life and are now being passed on to the next generation. Through stories from his childhood and reflections on the people who influenced him along the way, Rob shares how life on the farm helped build the foundation for a life of service, leadership, and mentorship. Be sure to join us next week for Part 2, where Rob shares how those lessons carried him through the United States Marine Corps, college, and a career dedicated to helping others succeed. Read more stories like Rob's and subscribe to The Florida Homesteader magazine:www.thefloridahomesteader.com Watch the video version of this podcast and subscribe to our YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@TheFloridaHomesteader Follow us on social media for additional homesteading content, farm stories, gardening tips, food preservation, and Florida-focused agricultural features. The Florida HomesteaderReal stories. Real farms. Real Florida living.

Welcome to Academy at the PARC, a unique learning environment located in the heart of Florida's Heartland. In this video, you'll get an inside look at a typical day on campus—from morning arrival and assembly to hands-on learning experiences, student activities, and the vibrant community that makes Academy at the PARC a special place to learn and grow. Set on a 40-acre campus in Sebring, Florida, Academy at the PARC combines rigorous academics with practical arts, experiential learning, and opportunities for students to engage with the natural world around them. The goal is to develop capable, confident, and curious learners prepared for life beyond the classroom.  To learn more about admissions, programs, curriculum, campus tours, and student opportunities, visit: Academyattheparc.com Or you can email them at: [email protected] #AcademyAtThePARC #PrivateSchool #FloridaEducation #ExperientialLearning #HandsOnLearning #SebringFL #NatureBasedLearning #AlternativeEducation #FloridaSchools #StudentLife