Ep 22: Why Community Is the Most Important Part of Homesteading

Ep 22: Why Community Is the Most Important Part of Homesteading

Homesteading can feel incredibly rewarding … but it can also feel lonely when you’re the only one in your neighborhood growing food or raising chickens. In Episode #22 of The Coop, host Anna Sakawsky reflects on why true self-sufficiency has always depended on community, and how we can start building stronger local networks today. Drawing from real-life examples (like neighbors helping clear snow, friends with excavators stepping in, and the power of sharing garden extras) Anna shows how investing in relationships with those around us creates resilience that no lone homesteader can achieve on their own. She also shares practical encouragement for connecting with like-minded people, whether through online groups, local events, or simply reaching out to neighbors with some offerings from the garden or chicken coop. This episode is a timely reminder that homesteading was never meant to be done in isolation. The strongest, most resilient homesteads are the ones surrounded by good neighbors and a supportive local community.

Ep 21: The Economics of Homesteading w/ Jessica Spiers

In a time when grocery prices keep climbing and the world feels increasingly uncertain, many families are asking a simple question: how can we stretch what we have further while building something that lasts? In Episode #21 of The Coop, Anna sits down with Jessica Spiers (homesteading and homeschooling mother of nine) for a deeply practical conversation about how modern homesteading is stepping in to fill the gap left by traditional home economics. Jessica shares how the old principles of home economics (planning, production, prevention, price comparison, and resourcefulness) are more relevant today than ever.  She explains how these timeless ideas naturally overlap with homesteading, helping families save money, reduce waste, involve their children in meaningful work, and become better stewards of their resources. Whether you have acreage or none at all, Jessica’s wisdom shows that homesteading doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. It’s about making intentional choices with what you already have, teaching kids real skills through everyday tasks, and shifting from a mindset of pure consumption to thoughtful production.

Ep 20: Jacob Lauser on Navigating the Legal Side of Homesteading

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re allowed to keep chickens, sell eggs from your backyard, build a shed, or start a small homestead business … this episode is essential listening. In Episode #20 of The Coop, Anna sits down with Jacob Lauser (lawyer, homesteader, and founder of Homesteaders.Legal) for a practical, no-nonsense conversation about the legal realities every homesteader should understand. Jacob shares his unique perspective as someone who has both practiced law and lived the homesteading life. He explains how to research zoning and land-use rules before (and after) buying property, what to watch for with livestock regulations, cottage food laws, water rights, HOA restrictions, and the realities of selling produce, eggs, or value-added products. Rather than acting as a roadblock, Jacob encourages homesteaders to become informed so they can work within the system when possible … finding legal pathways instead of constantly fighting it. He stresses the importance of doing your due diligence: checking official sources, talking to locals, understanding your county’s specific rules, and knowing when to consult a knowledgeable attorney. Whether you’re dreaming of buying land, already raising animals, or thinking about turning your homestead into a small business, this episode will help you avoid common legal pitfalls and make smarter, more informed decisions. In this episode, Anna and Jacob discuss: * Key things to research before buying land (zoning, restrictions, water rights, and more) * Rules around livestock (chickens, goats, cows, and other animals) * Cottage food laws, selling produce/eggs/meat, and starting a small homestead business * How to work with the system instead of constantly fighting it * Practical advice for staying compliant while still enjoying the freedom of homesteading

Ep 19: Susan Poizner on Growing Fruit Trees with Confidence

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping outside and picking fresh, juicy fruit straight from your own trees (but felt intimidated by pruning, rootstocks, pollination, or where to even begin) this episode is for you. In Episode #19 of The Coop, Anna sits down with Susan Poizner, orchardist, author, educator, and founder of OrchardPeople.com [http://orchardpeople.com/], for a warm, practical conversation that takes the mystery out of growing fruit trees. Susan shares why most big-box store trees set beginners up for disappointment and explains how choosing the right variety and rootstock for your climate and space can eliminate up to 60% of future problems. She walks through the importance of bare-root trees, proper planting techniques, and why the first 3–5 years are critical for shaping a strong, productive tree. The conversation dives into cross-pollination (why some trees need a partner and others don’t), the difference between open-center and central-leader pruning, and how timing your pruning cuts makes a big difference in tree health and fruit quality. Susan also explains why grafted trees are the norm and how they allow us to grow exactly the fruit we want … without waiting 5–7 years to see what a seedling produces. Whether you have room for just one small dwarf tree on a patio or are dreaming of a backyard orchard, this episode gives you the knowledge and confidence to get started the right way. Susan’s passion is contagious, and her straightforward advice makes growing fruit trees feel exciting and totally doable … even for complete beginners. If you’re ready to move beyond “someday” and actually plant your first fruit tree this season, don’t miss this conversation.

Ep 18: Anna Sakawsky on Her Homesteading Journey & What Homesteading Really Means

In this solo episode of The Coop, Homestead Living Editor-in-Chief Anna Sakawsky shares her personal story for the first time. From growing up as a city kid in Vancouver with almost no exposure to homesteading, to the stressful travel-agent days that sparked her desire for a slower, more connected life, Anna opens up about the path that led her here. She talks about how her travels abroad unexpectedly taught her to cook creatively and make do with what was available, and the early days with her husband Ryan … learning to turn simple ingredients into meals on a tight budget. Most importantly, Anna addresses the big question: What does homesteading actually mean in the modern world? She shares her thoughts on the confusion around the term, why definitions vary, and who this lifestyle is really for. Whether you’re just starting out or have been at it for years, this honest conversation will give you a clearer picture of the heart behind Homestead Living and The Coop. In this episode, Anna discusses: * Her city upbringing and limited early exposure to homesteading * The travel-agent job that sparked her desire for change * How traveling and living abroad shaped her skills and perspective * Early married life with Ryan: learning to cook creatively on a tight budget * What homesteading means (and doesn’t mean) today * Why there’s debate around who counts as a “real” homesteader