Welcome back to the Barndovilla Podcast! In this episode, we dive into our exciting plans for 2025, sharing updates on our homestead, content creation goals, and community-building efforts.
Podcast Highlights:
1. Expanding Content Creation: We’re focusing on creating more instructional videos, product reviews, and homestead updates. Our YouTube channel is now monetized, and we’re exploring member-supported content directly through our website.
2. Homestead Projects for 2025: We’re expanding our homestead with projects like:
Installing a water tank irrigation system
Completing our commercial kitchen
Building a two-bed, two-bath addition
Enhancing market gardening and egg production
3. Community Engagement: We’ve launched a newsletter sharing behind-the-scenes updates and personal stories. Be sure to sign up for free on our website to stay connected.
4. Faith & Fellowship: Our faith-driven mission continues as we work toward building a sustainable, supportive community rooted in shared values.
5. Future Adventures: From cold-weather hikes to adventure tourism, we’re excited to explore and share more outdoor experiences.
6. Sustainable Living Network: We’re developing a curriculum for creating self-sustaining communities through cooperation and shared skills. Stay tuned for workshops and events in North Central Arkansas and beyond.
How You Can Support Us:
Subscribe & Review: Your subscriptions, reviews, and shares help us reach more people.
Join Our Newsletter: Get exclusive updates and early content.
Membership & Merchandise: Look out for membership perks, including custom products and homestead-made goods.
Thank you for being part of our journey. With your support, 2025 promises to be an incredible year of growth, learning, and community-building.
Stay blessed and keep striving for sustainability! – The Barndovilla Team
Welcome to Barndovilla! Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, our homestead journey is all about creating a sustainable and rewarding life on the land. In today’s blog post, we’re diving into a recent video where we tackled some major projects around the homestead. From removing stubborn tree stumps to expanding our chicken run and even harvesting our first watermelons, it was a day full of hard work, learning experiences, and plenty of fun. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and join us as we take you through the ins and outs of this action-packed day on the homestead.
YouTube Homestead Video
Table of Contents
Product Reviewed (Affiliate Link) –
https://amzn.to/4dOuXk7 Starkline Premium Plus+ Braided Electric Poultry Netting – 48″ x 164′ | Ideal for Backyards, Farms, and Ranches
The Challenge of Stump Removal: Why It’s Important for Your Homestead
Why We Needed to Remove the Stumps
One of the biggest challenges we’ve faced on the homestead has been dealing with leftover tree stumps. These stumps, left over from previous land clearing, were not only an eyesore but also a physical barrier preventing us from expanding our fence line and utilizing more of our land. Additionally, stumps can become a haven for pests like termites, ants, and other critters that you definitely don’t want getting too comfortable on your property.
On this particular day, we had a cluster of five large stumps that were particularly problematic. They were located along the south side of our property, right where we planned to extend our fence line. It was clear that removing these stumps was a top priority if we wanted to make progress on our homestead expansion.
The Tools We Used: Mini Excavator vs. Tractor
When it comes to stump removal, having the right tools can make all the difference. For this job, we brought in Mike with his trusty mini excavator. We’ve tried using our smaller tractor with a backhoe attachment in the past, but it just didn’t have the power needed to handle these stubborn stumps. The mini excavator, on the other hand, packed enough punch to get the job done.
The process wasn’t easy—these stumps were deeply rooted, with some going 4 to 4.5 feet deep into the ground. The soil in the Ozarks, while rich and fertile, can be a challenge to work with because of its rocky nature. However, the mini excavator proved to be up to the task, and after some maneuvering and muscle, we were able to get those stumps out of the ground.
Preparing the Land: Clearing the Tree Line for Future Projects
Why Clearing the Tree Line Was Necessary
Once the stumps were out, our next task was to clear the surrounding tree line. This is an essential step in preparing the land for future projects, whether it’s building new structures, planting crops, or simply improving the aesthetics of the property. For us, clearing this particular tree line was all about getting ready to put in an electric fence.
An electric fence is a must-have on a homestead, especially if you’re raising livestock or growing crops that you want to protect from wildlife. By clearing the tree line, we’re not only making space for the fence but also ensuring that it will be effective. Overhanging branches or thick brush can interfere with the fence, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leading to problems down the line.
Preserving What We Can: The Importance of Shade and Habitat
While we cleared out a lot of brush and smaller trees, we made a conscious effort to preserve certain trees, like a particularly nice cedar tree. Shade is incredibly valuable on a homestead, especially in the hot and humid climate of north-central Arkansas. By keeping certain trees intact, we’re not only maintaining natural shade but also preserving habitat for local wildlife. We’ve found that a balanced approach—clearing where necessary but preserving what we can—is the best way to manage our land sustainably.
Homestead Hacks: Turning Debris into Chicken Bedding
The Problem: What to Do with All That Brush?
After clearing the tree line and removing the stumps, we were left with a significant amount of brush and debris. On a homestead, nothing goes to waste if you can help it, and that’s where a little ingenuity comes into play. Instead of simply hauling off the brush or burning it, we decided to repurpose it into chicken bedding.
https://t.co/Jl3BmSfy6U Welcome to another sun-filled, sweat-packed day at Barndovilla! 🌞 We’re deep into clearing stumps, setting up premium poultry netting, and harvesting our first homegrown watermelons.
For this task, we brought out our DK2 chipper. This machine is an absolute workhorse when it comes to processing brush. By feeding the branches and smaller logs through the chipper, we were able to produce a nice, soft bedding material for our chickens. Not only is this a great way to recycle organic material, but it also saves us money on buying bedding and reduces our waste output.
Chicken bedding serves multiple purposes on the homestead. It keeps the chicken coop clean and dry, helps control odors, and eventually breaks down into nutrient-rich compost that can be used in the garden. It’s a perfect example of the kind of closed-loop system we strive to create at Barndovilla.
The Joy of Harvest: Growing and Enjoying Watermelons
First Time Growing Watermelons: Successes and Lessons Learned
After a morning full of hard work, we took a well-deserved break to enjoy the fruits of our labor—literally! This year, we decided to try our hand at growing watermelons for the first time, and let me tell you, it was a sweet success. There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing your own food, especially when it turns out as delicious as these watermelons did.
Harvesting and Tasting Our Watermelons
The moment of truth came when we cut open our first watermelon. The bright red flesh and sweet, juicy flavor were everything we hoped for. As it turns out, watermelon is relatively easy to grow in our Ozark soil, especially if you give the plants plenty of water and sunshine. We planted seeded varieties, which means we can save seeds for next year’s crop—a win-win in terms of sustainability and cost savings.
The joy of growing and harvesting your own food is one of the most rewarding aspects of homesteading. It’s a reminder of why we chose this lifestyle in the first place—to connect with the land, nurture our resources, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Expanding the Chicken Run: Enhancing Our Poultry Setup
Why We Expanded the Chicken Run
As any homesteader knows, chickens are a vital part of a sustainable farm. They provide eggs, help control pests, and contribute to the overall health of the soil through their natural tilling and fertilizing actions. Given how important our chickens are, we decided it was time to expand their run and give them more space to roam and forage.
We chose to expand the chicken run into our sunflower garden, which had already been harvested for the season. This not only provides the chickens with a new area to explore but also allows them to clean up any leftover seeds, which helps prepare the soil for the next planting cycle.
Setting Up the Premium Poultry Netting
To make this expansion possible, we needed a reliable way to contain the chickens and protect them from predators. Enter the premium poultry netting we recently reviewed in our video. This netting is lightweight, easy to set up, and highly visible, making it an excellent choice for our homestead.
The netting comes with sturdy stakes and guy ropes, ensuring that it stays in place even in windy conditions. One of the features we appreciated most was the double spikes, which allow you to push the stakes into the ground with your foot—no need for a mallet, which is a real time-saver.
We connected the poultry netting to our existing electric fence system, adding an extra layer of protection. Electrifying the fence and the chicken coop provides a strong deterrent against predators like snakes and raccoons, which are always a concern in rural areas.
The Importance of Proper Fence and Coop Setup
Why Electrification Matters
One of the key takeaways from expanding the chicken run was the importance of electrifying not just the fence but the entire coop. Chickens, while hardy in many respects, are vulnerable to predators. A secure, electrified setup is crucial for their safety and for our peace of mind.
The process of electrifying the chicken run and coop wasn’t difficult, but it did require careful planning and setup. By running an electric line from the fence to the coop, we were able to create a seamless barrier that keeps unwanted visitors out. This setup has been incredibly effective, and we highly recommend it to other homesteaders looking to protect their flocks.
Maintaining Equipment: The Ups and Downs of Chainsaw Maintenance
Chainsaw Troubles: When Things Don’t Go as Planned
No day on the homestead is complete without a few hiccups, and this day was no exception. After clearing the stumps and expanding the chicken run, we turned our attention to helping out a family member with some tree removal. However, our chainsaws had other ideas.
Despite our best efforts, both chainsaws started acting up, refusing to run smoothly after a short while. It quickly became apparent that we were dealing with a fuel problem—likely some bad gas that was causing the chainsaws to sputter and stall. This was frustrating, to say the least, but it’s all part of the homesteading experience.
The Solution: Fuel Replacement and Chainsaw Maintenance
Our solution was to drain the old fuel, replace it with fresh gas, and give the chainsaws a thorough cleaning. We also decided to pick up some new chains, as the old ones had taken a beating during our earlier stump removal efforts. Maintaining your equipment is crucial on a homestead, where tools like chainsaws are essential for day-to-day operations.
Lessons Learned: The Value of Patience and Perseverance
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Wins
As we wrapped up the day, it was clear that we had accomplished a lot, despite the challenges we faced. From successfully removing stumps and expanding the chicken run to enjoying our first watermelon harvest, it was a day filled with both hard work and rewarding moments.
Homesteading is a lifestyle that requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s dealing with stubborn stumps, maintaining equipment, or simply managing the day-to-day tasks, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Barndovilla?
With the tree line cleared and the chicken run expanded, our next big project will be installing the electric fence and continuing to prepare the land for future planting. We’re also looking forward to more harvests, as our garden continues to produce a bounty of fruits and vegetables.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. We hope you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life at Barndovilla. Whether you’re an experienced homesteader or just starting out, we hope you found some inspiration and practical tips to apply to your own homestead. Stay tuned for more updates, videos, and blog posts as we continue to build, grow, and enjoy life on the land.
Affiliate Notice: Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our homestead and allows us to continue sharing our journey with you. Thank you for your support!
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Homestead Lifestyle
Homesteading is more than just a way of life—it’s a commitment to self-sufficiency, sustainability, and community. At Barndovilla, we’re constantly learning, adapting, and sharing our experiences with others who are on a similar path. Whether it’s through our YouTube videos, blog posts, or hands-on projects, our goal is to inspire and empower others to embrace the homestead lifestyle.
We invite you to follow along with our journey, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and check out our other blog posts for more tips, tricks, and insights into homesteading in the Ozarks. Together, we can create a thriving, sustainable future—one project at a time. See more at https://barndovilla.com/journal/
Wowzers, it’s been a homestead season of growing since we last posted! A lot has happened around here, and we’ve been busy—really busy. We’ve switched over most of the content from Backroads Homesteading and Harden Farm, importing all our podcasts and blogs into one place. This homestead update is a big step toward keeping everything organized and accessible, even if we’re still not completely sold on the layout. But hey, we’ll make do with what we have for now and keep tweaking things as we go along.
Table of Contents
Expanding the Garden and the Chaos Garden Experiment
One of the most exciting developments in our recent homestead updates is the expansion of our garden. We’ve been putting a lot of effort into this, and the results have been rewarding. Among our latest projects is the creation of a chaos garden. If you haven’t heard of this before, it’s essentially a garden where plants are allowed to grow in a more natural, less structured way. The idea is to let the plants support each other, creating a thriving, resilient ecosystem. Despite the lack of rain this season, our chaos garden is doing surprisingly well, which has been one of the highlights of our recent homestead updates.
A Major Mower Upgrade: The Hustler Super Z Hyperdrive
Another significant homestead update involves upgrading our mower. After much deliberation, we decided to replace our old, trusty Toro Timecutter 5000. That mower has served us well, but it was time to move on. After weeks of researching and almost settling on a Bad Boy mower, we ultimately chose the Hustler Super Z Hyperdrive with a 40hp Vanguard engine.
This was a tough decision, but it’s one of the most critical homestead updates we’ve made recently. The Toro, while reliable, just wasn’t cutting it—literally—on our 5-acre property. We found ourselves spending entire days mowing, using up more fuel and time than we could afford. The Hustler, on the other hand, is a powerhouse that will save us both time and energy in the long run.
The Purchase Process: An Important Homestead Update We were able to afford this upgrade thanks to our neighbor, Mike, who also needed a new mower. By purchasing two units, we qualified for commercial fleet pricing, which gave us a 27% discount. We bought from a dealer in Missouri to avoid the high sales taxes in both Arkansas and Missouri, which was a huge savings. This homestead update was not only a financial decision but also a practical one, allowing us to get the equipment we need without breaking the bank.
A Tool for the Future and a Lesson for Link This mower upgrade wasn’t just about keeping our property looking nice. It’s also an important homestead update for our son, Link, who has started mowing lawns for a neighbor. With a better mower, Link can take on more jobs and learn valuable lessons about work, money, and responsibility. Teaching him how to budget his earnings and take pride in his work is something we consider essential, and this homestead update is a big part of that education.
Building a Side Business: Ozark Lawn & Field
In one of our more entrepreneurial homestead updates, Mike and I have been discussing the idea of starting a side business called Ozark Lawn & Field. We’re thinking of offering services like haying, baling, milling, and of course, lawn and landscape work. This homestead update is particularly exciting because it’s not just about making extra income; it’s about strengthening our connections with other homesteads and farms in the area.
Why is this important? Because as we’ve mentioned in previous homestead updates, having a strong network of like-minded people is going to be crucial as times get tougher. We’ve already seen how much we rely on our neighbors for support, and expanding that network is key to our long-term survival and success.
Adventures on the Water with Jess and Link
On a lighter note, Jess and Link finally got out on the boat! This has been one of the more fun homestead updates lately. We’ve never had such a nice craft before, and the lakes around here are perfect for it. While it’s nothing too fancy, it’s just right for fishing, tubing, and spending quality time on the water. We still need to add a new Bimini top and some additional fishing gear, but those are minor details in this latest homestead update.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much Jess enjoyed the boat. She’s not usually one for big open-water adventures, especially in a smaller craft, but the lakes around here are just the right size for her comfort level. Our friends here also dive, so I’m hoping to get back into that and maybe do some spear fishing—something I haven’t done in years but would love to try again as part of our ongoing homestead updates.
What’s Next?
Well, that’s all for this homestead update. We’ve been up to a lot more, but I’ll save those stories for the next blog post. There’s always something happening around here, and I’m excited to share more of our journey with you. Thanks for sticking with us, and stay tuned for more updates in the near future!
In a compelling narrative of transformation, John Overall shares his journey from being a seasoned WordPress professional to becoming a committed homesteader. This change wasn’t just a career shift but a lifestyle revolution. In the latest episode of the Backroads Homesteading Podcast, hosted by Ryan Harden, John dives deep into how he leveraged his tech skills to cultivate a sustainable living space and community-focused enterprise. This blog post explores key takeaways from John’s experience and practical advice for aspiring homesteaders.
Section 1: The Genesis of a Homesteader
John’s journey into homesteading began before the global upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With a background spanning over 25 years in the internet industry and 15 years in WordPress development, John found himself yearning for something more grounded. His opportunity came in the form of an unused backyard owned by his family. John envisioned this space not as a neglected patch of grass but as a potential oasis of productivity and peace.
John’s project, dubbed the Rose Oasis, transformed a 65×120 foot city lot into a thriving garden. This endeavor was not just about growing food; it was about growing a new way of life. He utilized his tech-savvy skills to document his progress, creating a digital footprint of his transition from the digital world to the soil.
Section 2: Embracing the Local Economy
One of the most compelling aspects of John’s homesteading journey is his integration into the local economy. Initially attending farmers’ markets to sell excess plants, John quickly adapted his strategy to include freeze-dried products—a hit among the locals. His foray into freeze-drying fruits and creating a line of unique hot sauces showcases the innovative spirit needed to succeed in modern homesteading.
Moreover, John’s approach reflects a deep understanding of community needs and market dynamics. His ability to pivot and adapt his product offerings based on customer feedback underscores the importance of community interaction and responsiveness in building a successful homestead-based business.
Section 3: Practical Tips for Aspiring Homesteaders
John’s narrative is rich with advice for those looking to embark on their own homesteading journey. Key among these is the concept of starting small. John emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s local microclimate and gradually expanding one’s gardening prowess. He advises new homesteaders to experiment with different plant placements, understand their land’s unique conditions, and adapt accordingly.
Another significant piece of advice is leveraging existing skills and integrating them into homesteading activities. John’s background in WordPress and internet technologies provided him with the tools to document his journey, reach a broader audience, and market his products effectively.
Homesteading is not just a return to agriculture; it’s a proactive approach to building resilience in uncertain times. John and Ryan discuss the broader implications of homesteading, especially as it pertains to food security and economic stability. They touch on the societal shifts towards self-reliance and the increasing importance of local supply chains amid global disruptions.
The podcast also delves into the role of community and cooperative efforts in enhancing food security. John’s experience with local markets and his collaboration with neighboring farmers highlights the potential of community-supported agriculture (CSA) and its impact on local food resilience.
Section 5: Future Outlook and Continuous Learning
John’s story is an ongoing one, with plans to further expand his homesteading activities and continue learning. His commitment to sharing his knowledge through digital channels and local interactions exemplifies the evolving nature of homesteading—a blend of traditional practices and modern technologies.
Aspiring homesteaders are encouraged to view John’s journey as a blueprint for integrating professional skills with sustainable living practices. By staying curious, continuously learning, and adapting, the journey from tech expert to seasoned homesteader can not only be possible but deeply fulfilling.
Conclusion
John Overall’s transition from a tech professional to a passionate homesteader offers a profound look at how diverse skills and past experiences can pave the way for successful and sustainable living. The Backroads Homesteading Podcast episode with John provides not only inspiration but also practical guidance for anyone looking to embark on a similar path. As we face increasing global challenges, the story of the Rose Oasis serves as a beacon of innovation, resilience, and community spirit in the modern homesteading movement.
Welcome to the Latest Episode of the Backroads Homesteading Podcast!
Greetings, fellow homesteaders and listeners! We’re excited to bring you the sixth episode of the Backroads Homesteading Podcast, where we dive deep into the ins and outs of sustainable living and homesteading in today’s challenging times. Here’s a breakdown of what we covered in this enlightening episode:
Episode Summary:
Hosts: Ryan (joined by Justin in discussion) Episode: Season 1, Episode 6 Main Focus: Homesteading Challenges, Agricultural Insights, and Preparing for Economic Shifts
What We Discussed:
Homesteading Updates and Challenges:
We’ve been busy planting a variety of crops like core beans, peas, turmeric, and more. Despite some struggles with early frosts and pests, our efforts are in full swing, including innovative methods like planting under woodchips for better yield.
Our discussion also covered the logistical challenges of shifting plants to safeguard them from late frosts, utilizing spaces like our pole barn effectively.
Animal Husbandry Insights:
Our experiences with starting with chickens and the learning curve involved have been enriching. We delve into why starting with rabbits might have been more advantageous due to their sustainability and low maintenance.
We share our hands-on experience in modifying a chicken coop into a tractor, enhancing our poultry care.
Economic Considerations for Homesteaders:
With economic instability looming, we discussed the importance of preparing for inflation and potential depressions. Strategies like using goldbacks for trade among homesteaders and setting up sustainable business models are essential topics we touched on.
We also highlighted the crucial role of community networking and barter systems in maintaining a resilient homestead.
Sustainable Practices and Preparedness:
The episode covers essential survival skills and preparedness, including first aid, the use of natural remedies, and the importance of community support systems.
We emphasize the value of communication through GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) for off-grid contact and the benefits of being well-versed in various communication methods.
Spiritual and Mental Wellbeing:
Reflecting on the pressures of modern homesteading, we discuss the importance of mental health, maintaining positive relationships, and leveraging community support to handle stress and uncertainties.
Looking Ahead:
As we continue to navigate the complexities of homesteading and sustainable living, our podcast aims to be a resource for practical advice, heartfelt insights, and a supportive community platform. We encourage our listeners to engage with us through comments, share their experiences, and suggest topics for future discussions.
How to Listen:
Catch this episode and more by subscribing to our podcast on major platforms or directly from our website at BackroadsHomesteading.com/podcast. Stay connected, stay informed, and let’s thrive together in our homesteading journeys!
We hope this episode inspires you to explore new aspects of homesteading and strengthens your resolve to live sustainably. Thank you for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes from Backroads Homesteading!
