On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold has a conversation with Mandy Roth of Evergreen Winds Homestead about her homestead, the things she and her family are doing, and the reasons she is doing it.
The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 206 – June 7, 2023
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Embracing Homesteading: A Conversation with Mandy Roth on the Modern Homesteading Podcast
On this episode of the Modern Homesteading Podcast, host Harold Thornbro welcomed Mandy Roth of Evergreen Winds Homestead. Mandy shared her journey into homesteading, discussing her passion for sustainable living and her endeavors in gardening, animal husbandry, and community building. This article encapsulates their engaging conversation, highlighting Mandy’s experiences and aspirations.
Mandy Roth’s Homesteading Journey
From Childhood Memories to a Passionate Homesteader
- Roots in Pennsylvania: Growing up in rural Pennsylvania, Mandy experienced a life of simplicity and resourcefulness. Her mother’s approach to gardening, animal care, and homemade food significantly influenced her.
- Transition to Homesteading: Moving from Pittsburgh to Indiana in 2020, Mandy and her family embraced the opportunity to expand their homesteading activities, including gardening and animal rearing.
The Homestead Life
Building a Food Forest and Garden
- Starting with Young Trees: Mandy focused on planting various fruit trees and establishing a food forest, aiming for a self-sufficient ecosystem.
- Gardening Ventures: With rich soil in their Indiana home, the Roths have cultivated a thriving garden, experimenting with various vegetables and herbs.
The Joy of Raising Animals
- Diverse Animal Husbandry: The homestead boasts chickens, rabbits, and Nigerian dwarf goats, with the latter being a recent addition for milk production.
- Children’s Involvement: Mandy’s children, aged nine and six, engage with the animals, learning responsibility and nurturing skills.
Sustainable Practices and Future Plans
Embracing Eco-Friendly Techniques
- Composting and Soil Health: Focusing on soil enrichment, Mandy plans to build a three-bin compost system to improve soil quality.
- Aspirations for the Homestead: While there’s no fixed five-year plan, Mandy is open to evolving her homesteading practices, including potentially selling produce and homemade products.
The Role of Community and Inspiration
- Social Media Engagement: Active on Instagram, Mandy shares her homesteading experiences, aiming to inspire and educate others.
- Building Connections: Through online platforms and local interactions, she fosters a sense of community among fellow homesteaders.
Reflections on Homesteading
The Impact on Family Life
- Passing Down Traditions: Mandy cherishes the opportunity to instill a love for nature and self-sufficiency in her children, akin to her own upbringing.
- A Contented Lifestyle: The Roths find joy in the simplicity and fulfillment that homesteading brings, embracing the challenges and rewards it offers.
Conclusion
Mandy Roth’s journey on the Modern Homesteading Podcast is a testament to the growing movement towards sustainable living. Her story illustrates the transformative power of homesteading, not just in terms of cultivating food and caring for animals, but also in building community, preserving traditions, and fostering a deeper connection with nature. As Mandy continues to share her experiences and inspire others, she contributes significantly to the growing tapestry of modern homesteaders shaping a more sustainable future.
