Ever wish you had a mentor to help you make healthier, real food choices, one small step at a time? Someone to whisper encouragements in your ear? Someone who has been taking small steps for over a decade, learned a lot about real food, non-toxic living, and a holistic approach to wellness along the way?Tune in every Monday as your host, Michelle Visser—former junk food addict, turned homesteader and medicinal gardener—offers you encouragement and practical insights on the Simple Doesn’t Mean Easy podcast.We dive deep into topics like avoiding processed foods, incorporating whole foods into your diet, milling fresh flour, and understanding the powerful benefits of fermented foods, medicinal drinks, and other healthy, gut-friendly options. We explore topics, often with thought-provoking guests, from the importance of healthy fats and natural sugars to practical tips on gardening, creating simple recipes, and stocking your kitchen with the best pantry staples. Whether you&#39;re looking to improve your immune system, learn how to nourish your body with real, nutrient-dense foods, or discover better, nontoxic options, join in every episode and gain actionable advice for making sustainable, healthier choices.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/13/16/bb400286-6f2e-462c-881a-ffbf40039065_e_edit_-_238_military_food_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

This episode is a little different from the discouraging food-industry news we often hear. This is an encouraging story about what happens in real world examples of replacing ultra-processed food with fresh, whole foods.You’ll hear what several military bases are doing differently, why soldiers are actually lining up to eat the new food, and the surprising numbers showing that feeding people better may actually cost less, not more.If you&#39;ve ever thought that real food is too expensive, too complicated, or impossible to serve on a large scale, this episode offers a powerful real-world example that may change the way you think about real food forever.And perhaps most encouraging of all, it&#39;s a reminder that real food can win when we make it delicious, accessible, and worth choosing. This episode&#39;s sponsors:I love Grand Teton Ancient Grains. Find out my favorites and how I use them:https://soulyrested.com/wholegrainhttps://soulyrested.com/trueleaf About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/My podcast: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com

238. This Might Be the Best Food News I’ve Heard All Year

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This episode of Simple Doesn&#39;t Mean Easy is for anyone who feels like they&#39;re carrying too much, thinking too far ahead, or struggling to find gratitude in a difficult season.Two very different stories uncover a surprisingly simple lesson about gratitude.Sometimes we need to step back and see the bigger picture. Other times, looking too far ahead only makes us feel more overwhelmed, and we need to focus on the one simple step directly in front of us.As you listen, you&#39;ll be encouraged to look closer about the season you&#39;re currently in.You&#39;ll walk away with a simple mental framework you can return to whenever life feels overwhelming—and hopefully a renewed awareness of the small, beautiful things that are already happening right in front of you.This episode&#39;s sponsors:<a href="http://soulyrested.com/whole-grain" rel="nofollow">soulyrested.com/whole-grain</a><a href="http://soulyrested.com/coffee" rel="nofollow">soulyrested.com/coffee</a> Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: <a href="https://soulyrested.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/podcast/</a>FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisserCONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

237. What my dog taught me about gratitude

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What if milling your own flour is only part of the story?If you&#39;re going to the trouble of buying a grain mill and making fresh-milled flour for your family, have you ever stopped to wonder where those wheat berries came from and how they were grown?In this episode, we’re going behind the scenes of a regenerative organic family farm with sixth-generation farmer Jade Koyle of Grand Teton Ancient Grains in Idaho.Jade shares what actually happens in the fields where your wheat is grown—and I think you&#39;re going to look at your flour very differently after this conversation.You&#39;ll come away from this episode with a better understanding of your wheat, your flour, regenerative farming, ancient grains, and why knowing your farmer might be one of the most important steps you can take when you&#39;re trying to improve the food you&#39;re feeding your family.Your flour doesn&#39;t begin in your kitchen.It begins in the soil.And once you understand what happens there, you may never look at a wheat berry the same way again.This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/wholegrain/https://soulyrested.com/coffeehttps://soulyrested.com/trueleaf/ Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here:<a href="https://soulyrested.com/pantry/" rel="nofollow"> </a><a href="https://soulyrested.com/pantry/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/pantry/</a>Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required.👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisserCONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)comIf you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

236. A Wheat Farmer Reveals What’s Really Happening in Your Flour

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How much do you actually know about the coffee you&#39;re drinking every day? In this episode, we sit down with Tiffany Gardner, COO of Java Planet Organic Coffee Roasters, to uncover what we should really be looking for when choosing coffee. You&#39;ll discover: - how organic certification works, - why shade-grown and bird-friendly coffee matter, - how farming practices can affect the quality of your coffee, - why mold and heavy-metal testing has become such an important conversation. You&#39;ll also discover something that might completely change the way you think about decaf coffee. Most importantly, this episode will help you become a more informed coffee shopper. Instead of being overwhelmed by labels and marketing claims, you&#39;ll walk away knowing which questions to ask, what certifications to look for, and why knowing the source of your coffee matters. Because just like the food we put on our tables, the quality of what we put in our morning cup definitely matters. This episode&#39;s sponsors:Meet Grand Teton Ancient Grains &amp; discover my personal favorite grains they grow and how I use each one here:https://soulyrested.com/wholegrainhttps://soulyrested.com/coffeehttps://soulyrested.com/teas Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources: Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundz Looking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/About Michelle Visser Hi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast. My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

235. Is Your Coffee Actually Clean? What You Need to Know About Organic, Mold & Pesticides

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What if the solution to America&#39;s food problems isn&#39;t waiting for the government to fix what&#39;s on grocery store shelves? In this episode, we delve into the confusing world of GRAS—“Generally Recognized as Safe”—ingredients and explain what a new FDA proposal could actually mean for the chemicals, additives, preservatives, dyes, sweeteners, and other ingredients making their way into our food. But more importantly, we look beyond the headlines and understand why food reform is so complicated—and why simply celebrating a government announcement may not be enough. You&#39;ll come away with a clearer understanding of what&#39;s happening, why there are still so many loopholes, and what you can actually do right now to make a difference for your family. And the answer isn&#39;t throwing away everything in your pantry. It&#39;s taking one simple step at a time: becoming more informed, making one better substitution, learning to make more foods yourself, and ultimately using your purchasing power to tell food companies what you want. This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/wholegrainhttps://soulyrested.com/coffeehttps://99counties.com/ Use code SIMPLE50 RELATED EPISODES🎧 Episode 131 — https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/131-why-we-cant-trust-ingredients-that-are-generally/id1502035061?i=1000665870818 Go back to this episode for the history of “Generally Recognized as Safe” and how this designation became part of our food system. 🎧 Episode 214 — https://open.spotify.com/episode/2wk0Ynl0x5dFZu0QCUkMVC Hear from a former Big Food insider about how processed foods are deliberately engineered to make us crave them. Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required.👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

234. What the FDA’s New Food Chemical Proposal REALLY Means

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Feel like you&#39;re never doing enough? If you look around at what everyone else is doing and feel overwhelmed by all the things you should be doing—eating better, exercising more, sleeping more, taking care of your family better, improving your home, growing your food, building better habits, deepening your relationships—you may need this reminder: you don&#39;t have to do it all. Today we&#39;re breaking down the 5 pillars that need your attention. Just 5. But more importantly, we&#39;re talking about how to make progress without turning healthy living into another source of stress. If you&#39;re in a difficult season, or a waiting season, this episode&#39;s for you too. Sometimes we&#39;re so focused on the next thing that we fail to recognize how far we&#39;ve already come. And sometimes the season that feels like it&#39;s breaking us is actually preparing us for what&#39;s next. You&#39;ll be encouraged to slow down, notice the good that&#39;s already in your life, take one small step at a time, and focus on what&#39;s right in front of you instead of worrying about everything else. And don&#39;t miss the final section, where Michelle dives into the surprising physical and mental benefits of gratitude and shares what she feels is truly the greatest ways to simplify everything. This episode&#39;s sponsors:<a href="https://soulyrested.com/botanicals" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/botanicals</a><a href="https://soulyrested.com/coffee" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/coffee</a><a href="https://soulyrested.com/wholegrain" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/wholegrain</a> Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/ All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle Visser Hi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast. My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

233. The 5 Habits That Actually Matter

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Starting to mill your own flour is exciting—until you&#39;re faced with the overwhelming question of which wheat berries to use. In this episode, Michelle simplifies the process by sharing the exact 3-grain starter kit she recommends for beginners. Dive into misconceptions and incorrect common advice that often falls short, how to confidently choose ancient and heritage grains, and where each grain shines in baking. You&#39;ll also learn the perfect gateway grain, why Rouge de Bordeaux is Michelle&#39;s favorite bread wheat, and what ancient grain is one of the most fascinating ones to experiment with. Whether you&#39;re buying your first grain mill or simply want healthier, more flavorful bread, this episode gives you a practical roadmap for getting started. Key Takeaways from this Episode: * Why choosing wheat berries is often harder than choosing a grain mill.* The common beginner advice that&#39;s wrong and too simplistic.* A simple 3-grain &#34;starter kit&#34; helps new millers gain confidence without buying dozens of grains.* Why spelt is an ideal all-purpose ancient grain for beginners and the best recipes to use it in.* Why a heritage hard wheat like Rouge de Bordeaux makes exceptional sandwich bread.* Why einkorn is a fun grain to experiment with, especially for people seeking ancient grains and those with gluten sensitivities.* How using different grains increases flavor variety and nutritional diversity.* Resources for sourcing quality wheat berries and even purchasing freshly milled flour from farmers if you don&#39;t yet own a grain mill. This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.dashery.com/https://soulyrested.com/coffee Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com

232. Wheat Berry Advice I Disagree With

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Have you noticed AI showing up everywhere? Are you tired of wondering if the advice you&#39;re watching or reading is even coming from a real person? As artificial intelligence becomes woven into nearly every part of our lives, it&#39;s getting harder to know who—or what—you can trust. In this episode, we explore both the incredible benefits and the hidden drawbacks of AI, why convenience isn&#39;t always worth the trade-off, and why real-life experience still matters in a world increasingly driven by algorithms. You&#39;ll also discover simple ways you can help preserve authentic voices online and ensure the creators you trust continue to be found. If you&#39;ve ever felt like the internet is becoming less personal and more artificial, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, encouraged, and empowered to make a difference. Michelle shares the surprising story of an Instagram reel that unexpectedly went viral, bringing almost 20,000 new followers and revealing just how many people are feeling overwhelmed by the rapid rise of artificial intelligence. Today real human knowledge, personal experience, and authentic relationships are becoming more valuable than ever. Join in as we draws parallels between convenience in technology and convenience in food, encouraging you to think critically about both. Grab your own Flour Power tshirts! https://soulyrested.dashery.com/ This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/botanicalshttps://soulyrested.com/coffeehttps://99counties.com/ Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

231. The Hidden Cost of AI: What We're Losing Without Real Experts

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/19/0/29e31b49-e516-40ea-a574-6cf478a7246b_riverside_michelle_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

For years it felt like Big Food was winning—but the latest market data tells a different story. If you&#39;ve ever wondered whether your everyday food choices really matter, this episode offers hope—and proof that they do. In this episode, learn about encouraging research showing that Americans are choosing more minimally processed food options. Find out what may be leading to this trend and why this consumer shift matters. Your grocery dollars influence the food industry, and even one small change at a time can make a meaningful difference for your family&#39;s health. Michelle also shares updates from life on the homestead, including Bill&#39;s health, this year&#39;s challenging garden season, the benefits of cover crops, why she grows her own garlic and is expanding her strawberry patch, and practical encouragement for anyone trying to eat healthier without becoming overwhelmed. This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/heritage/ https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/teas Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ ﻿Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ Cover Crops Resource Hub: https://soulyrested.com/cover/ Access to the FREE Free Fall Soil Challenge: https://soulyrested.com/cover/ The market study discussed: https://www.supermarketperimeter.com/articles/14321-research-finds-which-food-brands-are-most-exposed-to-upf-fallout Chart showing obesity rates by country: Regenerative American Meat: https://99counties.com/ Code SIMPLE50 Tallow &amp; Real Food Wellness Resources: https://soulyrested.com/wellness/ Past Podcast Episodes Mentioned in this episode: Episode 226 – Bill&#39;s health scare and anxiety symptomsEpisode 221 – Glyphosate in our foodEpisode 220 – How to render lardEpisode 218 – Breaking junk food addiction (with Glenn Livingston)Episode 215 – Processed foods and children&#39;s behavior (with Amy Sprouse)Episode 214 – How Big Food engineers our cravingsEpisode 223 – Fresh flour bread tipsEpisode 222 – Healthy breakfastsEpisode 205 – RuthAnn Zimmerman on making realistic food changesEpisode 203 – Human hair and duck feathers in bread FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

230. The Truth About Ultra-Processed Foods (And Why Consumers Are Fighting Back)

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/27/14/3c9cc973-13ff-4cc0-af49-de2b1d5a4713_riverside_229_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

What if the best way to celebrate summer—and even strengthen your family—is by slowing down? As America approaches its 250th anniversary, we explore a different kind of patriotism today—one rooted in family, food, and connection.   We break down 15 practical ways families can spend less time on screens and more time creating meaningful memories together through simple real-food activities all summer long. From fruit picking and homemade syrups to kombucha, sun tea, dehydrating food, freeze-drying, hiking, picnics, and coffee shop adventures, this episode offers you 15 ideas that will help your family reconnect while learning valuable life skills.  We also discuss why becoming less dependent on modern food systems matters, and stick with this episode to the very end for an important reminder about pursuing simple living in a way that strengthens family relationships, rather than creating tension. <h3>This episode&#39;s sponsors:</h3>Meet Guardian Grains, an amazing organic, regenerative family farm and stock up on the best hertiage grains with my exclusive code here-- <a href="https://soulyrested.com/heritage" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/heritage</a><a href="https://soulyrested.com/trueleaf" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/trueleaf</a><a href="https://soulyrested.com/teas" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/teas</a> <h3>Links discussed in this episode:</h3>Episode 205 - How to Eat Better and Save Money (with Ruth Ann Zimmerman) <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/0HeEgLe99an2PHiRR31Ebw?si=9-01VLdcTvepdnkKmHjYMw" rel="nofollow">https://open.spotify.com/episode/0HeEgLe99an2PHiRR31Ebw?si=9-01VLdcTvepdnkKmHjYMw</a>Episode 189 - Three Kitchen Tools I Use on Repeat <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/46p9aGX4wOAHP7BphdtPKt?si=nQEyAZsuRc6lVvglynBmNw" rel="nofollow">https://open.spotify.com/episode/46p9aGX4wOAHP7BphdtPKt?si=nQEyAZsuRc6lVvglynBmNw</a>The Most simple floral Syrup recipe: <a href="https://youtu.be/0eVJGANdnSQ?si=0M7j_H2YJVnefFVs" rel="nofollow">https://youtu.be/0eVJGANdnSQ?si=0M7j_H2YJVnefFVs</a>Podcast Email Signup: <a href="https://soulyrested.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/podcast/</a>Kombucha Resources: <a href="https://soulyrested.com/kombucha/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/kombucha/</a>Favorite Loose Leaf Tea Recipes : <a href="https://soulyrested.com/teas/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/teas/</a>Dehydrator Buying Guide: <a href="https://soulyrested.com/choosing-dehydrator/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/choosing-dehydrator/</a>Freeze Dryer Cost Analysis: <a href="https://soulyrested.com/freeze-dryer-pay-off/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/freeze-dryer-pay-off/</a> <h3>More Resources:</h3>Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here:<a href="https://soulyrested.com/pantry/" rel="nofollow"> https://soulyrested.com/pantry/</a>Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: <a href="https://soulyrested.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/podcast/</a> FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: <a href="https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7" rel="nofollow">https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7</a>Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): <a href="https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52" rel="nofollow">https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52</a>Learn about dehydrating food: <a href="https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvq" rel="nofollow">https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvq</a>Learn about baking with maple syrup: <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747" rel="nofollow">https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747</a>Learn about making your own maple syrup: <a href="https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundz" rel="nofollow">https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundz</a>Looking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: <a href="https://soulyrested.com/howto/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/howto/</a>All my favorite ingredients: <a href="https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/</a> <h3>About Michelle Visser</h3>Hi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required.👋Find me in all the places:My book: <a href="https://amzn.to/45Pt8Pu" rel="nofollow">https://amzn.to/45Pt8Pu</a>My website: <a href="https://soulyrested.com/" rel="nofollow">https://soulyrested.com/</a>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/" rel="nofollow">https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/</a>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/soulyrested" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/soulyrested</a>Pinterest: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/" rel="nofollow">https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/</a>youtube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser</a>CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)comIf you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

229. 15 ways to do things differently this summer

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/19/21/35d16836-4104-4dec-8d9c-3c8439dd62e2_riverside_228_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

Thinking about getting backyard chickens? There are 3 problems you really need to know about first. Most people see the fresh eggs, cute chicks, and homestead charm—but few talk about the challenges that catch new chicken owners completely off guard. What happens when your hens suddenly stop laying strong eggs? How do you deal with parasites without spending a fortune? And can you really protect your flock from predators? In this episode, Michelle shares the hard-earned lessons she&#39;s learned after more than a decade of raising chickens. You&#39;ll learn everything you need to know to prevent the 3 chicken care problems you&#39;re bound to run into before they become expensive headaches. You&#39;ll get a behind-the-scenes look at Michelle&#39;s custom chicken coop, including the features she now considers essential, the upgrades she&#39;d make differently, and what she wishes she had known before investing in a new coop. Get the inside scoop on how to order a custom-built coop: <a href="https://www.thehenhousecollection.com/?utm_campaign=youtube_leads_fall2025&utm_medium=article&utm_source=blog" rel="nofollow">https://www.thehenhousecollection.com/?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=youtube_leads_fall2025</a> If you&#39;re wondering whether backyard chickens are worth it—or you want to avoid the mistakes that frustrate so many beginners—this episode will help you start with confidence. This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/heritagehttps://soulyrested.com/teas Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/ All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required.👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

228. The Truth About Backyard Chickens (What No One Tells Beginners)

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/14/1/e02e7851-3a6e-424d-bce3-9798df17cf31_riverside_227_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

What if the very things you&#39;re rushing past today become the things you&#39;d miss most tomorrow?In today&#39;s episode, you&#39;ll be challenged to see your relationships, struggles, and everyday moments through an entirely new lens. Through powerful stories of loss, grief, gratitude, and resilience, you&#39;ll discover why the smallest moments in life often matter the most—and why many of us don&#39;t realize it until it&#39;s too late.You&#39;ll hear heartfelt reflections from people who have lost someone they love, learn practical ways to find hope when life feels overwhelming, and uncover a surprising lesson in a memorable allegory that you won&#39;t soon forget.Whether you&#39;re grieving a loss, navigating a difficult season, waiting for a breakthrough, or simply feeling worn down by life&#39;s challenges, this episode will encourage you to notice the joys and find beauty even in the most difficult places.You&#39;ll walk away with a renewed appreciation for the people you love, a fresh perspective on hardship, and one simple mindset shift that can help you face whatever season you&#39;re in right now with greater peace, purpose, and hope.Use code PRIME to stack 55% off the current sale price on Fresh Flour University this month: https://soulyrested.com/flour/ This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/heritage (Guardian Grains) Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

227. The Truth About Grief, Gratitude, & Healing

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/7/1/dd9652a2-cc7d-41b9-94e7-9f2d435a512d_riverside_226_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

In this eye-opening episode, you&#39;ll learn how chronic stress and anxiety sometimes manifest in surprising and even frightening physical ways. You&#39;ll discover why understanding these warning signs matters, what to do when a loved one experiences sudden confusion or memory loss, and how knowledge can help bring calm during a medical crisis. You&#39;ll also walk away with practical, research-backed strategies for managing anxiety, lowering stress levels naturally, improving resilience, and supporting your overall health. From simple techniques to lifestyle habits that can make a significant difference, this episode is packed with actionable tools you can start using today. Finally, you&#39;ll be challenged to consider an important question: Are you fully appreciating the people you love? You&#39;ll discover simple ways to strengthen your relationships and avoid taking everyday moments for granted. Whether you&#39;re navigating stress yourself, caring for someone you love, or simply looking for practical ways to live with more intention, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and hope. Michelle walks listeners through the lessons she is learning, first-hand, about stress management, lifestyle changes, and prioritizing health. She also shares practical strategies for reducing anxiety naturally and closes with heartfelt reflections on marriage, gratitude, and ways to appreciate your spouse before tragedy reminds you how precious everyday life really is. Use code PRIME to stack 55% off the current sale price on Fresh Flour University this month: https://soulyrested.com/flour/ This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/heritage (Guardian Grains) Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

226. The Hidden Danger of Chronic Stress No One Talks About

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/29/11/2db67d6f-8cf1-4080-b361-b671cec9d58c_riverside_magic_episode_01_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

Rachel McCord appeared to have everything: successful businesses, national media recognition, celebrity connections, and a thriving career. Then at just 32 years old, she received shocking news—she needed open heart surgery with significant risks. Facing her own mortality forced Rachel to reevaluate everything she believed about success, achievement, motherhood, faith, and purpose. In this powerful conversation, Rachel shares how trauma, striving, and perfectionism quietly shaped her life, the three life-changing questions she asked herself before surgery, and the framework she now uses to make every major decision. This episode is an invitation to stop chasing endless accomplishments and start building a value-driven life rooted in love, stewardship, intentionality, and faith. Visit today&#39;s sponsors: A few tools that will uplevel your real food kitchen: Soulyrested.com/trueleaf The only heritage grains I use, from the organic, regenerative farm to your table: SoulyRested.com/heritage Key Takeaways:- Success doesn&#39;t guarantee fulfillment.- Major life challenges often reveal misplaced priorities.- You cannot do everything—and trying to will eventually break you.- Perfectionism prevents many people from ever getting started.- Trauma and past wounds can quietly fuel achievement-driven lifestyles.- Intentional living begins with understanding what truly matters.- Love, stewardship, and equipping others create a meaningful legacy.- Your influence doesn&#39;t have to be large to make a significant impact.- Asking the right questions can completely transform your priorities.- Healing often begins with honesty, forgiveness, and surrender.- Every heartbeat is an opportunity to live with purpose. Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisserCONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

225. Why Doing It All Is Breaking Women (And How to Build a Life That Matters)

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/25/14/8d94ad02-96e8-4c9f-8aa7-b205e1dd11e3_episode___apr_14__2026_simple_doesn_t_mean__1_.mp3

It&#39;s time to get to the truth about the booming tallow skincare industry. Why did tallow products explode in popularity? How can you spot fake or low-quality tallow balms online? And are many mainstream skincare products doing more harm than good?Lily Wilmoth, founder of Hearth and Homestead, explains the science behind skin health, the importance of fat-soluble vitamins, and why ancestral skincare methods are making a comeback. We dive deep into ingredient transparency, FDA loopholes, synthetic fragrances, and the growing movement toward regenerative farming and natural wellness.And we break down some of of the most-loved products, including magnesium butter for sleep and restless legs, Aleppo soap inspired by ancient traditions, and a nourishing facial system designed to support the skin barrier naturally. If you’ve ever wondered if “clean skincare” is truly clean — this episode will completely change the way you think about skincare. This episode&#39;s sponsor: https://soulyrested.com/soap Key Takeaways From This Episode:How to identify trustworthy small skincare brandsWhy regenerative farming and ingredient sourcing matter in skincareWhy tallow skincare suddenly became wildly popular after 2020The surprising differences between real tallow balm and cheap knockoffsHow misleading labeling in skincare can deceive consumersWhy many “clean” skincare products still contain questionable ingredientsThe role fat-soluble vitamins play in skin healthWhy animal fats may nourish skin differently than plant oils aloneHow the skin microbiome impacts acne, eczema, and irritationWhat magnesium does for restless legs, sleep, muscle tension, and stressThe fascinating history behind ancient soapHow over-cleansing may actually damage your skin barrier Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundz All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

224. Why Your “Clean” Skincare May Not Be Clean

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/16/15/a486770c-fc7a-4f5d-9191-5f582eef3a4a_riverside_ep_223_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

In this episode of the Simple Doesn&#39;t Mean Easy podcast, Michelle Visser shares two game-changing techniques that can completely transform fresh milled flour bread baking. Michelle explains why fresh flour often produces dense, hard bread when used like commercial flour and breaks down the science behind hydration, bran, and gluten development. She introduces listeners to the powerful techniques of Tangzhong and Yudane, showing how these methods improve softness, texture, rise, and shelf life naturally—without additives or preservatives. The episode also dives into choosing the right wheat berries, understanding why commercial flour behaves differently, and how fresh flour can create healthier, more nourishing homemade bread. Whether you&#39;re brand new to fresh milled flour and grain mills or frustrated with failed loaves, this episode offers practical solutions that can dramatically improve your baking results.

223. Why Your Fresh Flour Bread Fails & the Fix That Changes Everything

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/10/23/2a51df60-b498-4bf7-823e-3a7624de5410_erside_ep_222_make_cereals_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

Join Michelle today for practical tips on making nutritious, real food breakfast options at home, with recipes and tips to help you incorporate more real food into your daily routines. Key Topics:Nutritional benefits of fresh flaked oatsHow commercial oats are processed and lose nutrientsSimple methods to make your own flaked oats at homeRecipes for nutritious oatmeal and granolaThe impact of food processing on nutrient content This episode&#39;s sponsors:One of my favorite family farms, for heritage grains &amp; fresh flour: https://soulyrested.com/heritagehttps://soulyrested.com/trueleaf Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required.👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisserCONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)comIf you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

222. The Secret to Nutritious Breakfasts (that you never knew!)

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/3/0/fdaf1045-cdfd-4980-8dc8-72847aeee9ca_nd_hemp___may_03__2026_001_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

What does the 2026 Farm Bill mean for you? In this eye-opening episode, Michelle breaks down the shocking prevalence of glyphosate in everyday foods and 4 Things you never knew about glyphosate (spoiler alert: It&#39;s even worse than you thought.) This episode explains how glyphosate impacts health, hormones, and nutrient absorption, and explores its links to infertility and chronic disease. The episode also analyzes the controversial 2026 Farm Bill, including a last-minute public push and what it really means. Michelle shares her own personal perspective on the bill’s final outcome (you might be surprized). What starts as concern turns into cautious optimism, as she explains how the 2026 Farm Bill that passed just last week could potentially play a major role in restoring soil health, reducing chemical use, and creating sustainable farming systems. Stick with us to the end for hands-on, practical encouragement that could be life-changing for you and your family. This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/heritage/ https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/botanicals Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

221. 99% of Cereals Have This… And It’s Still Legal

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/4/26/1/0c5a8a0c-6aab-46f7-880f-74cf5f0d1406_ichelle___apr_26__2026_001_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

In this episode of Simple Doesn’t Mean Easy, Michelle breaks down the truth about cooking fats—and why many commonly used oils may be harming your health. She explains the dangers of hydrogenated seed oils, including their link to inflammation and chronic disease, and shares why switching to traditional fats like lard, butter, and tallow can make a meaningful difference. Michelle walks listeners step-by-step through how to render lard at home, simplifying what often feels like an intimidating process. She also explains the nutritional benefits of pasture-raised lard—especially its vitamin D content—and how it can support overall health, even helping with seasonal mood changes. Whether you’re ready to make your own lard or just want to choose better fats at the store, this episode gives you practical, actionable steps to upgrade your kitchen and your health. The BEST lard you can buy from regenerative US farms (just search &#34;lard&#34;): https://99counties.com?sca_ref=8835672.PUT7XrjQpTUhe Fill up a box with amazing meat while you&#39;re there! More on all this in today&#39;s episode:- Seed oils are highly processed and linked to inflammation and chronic disease- Many “healthy” oils (like avocado oil) are often mislabeled or diluted with cheap oils- Lard (especially pasture-raised) is a nutrient-dense, stable cooking fat-Lard contains vitamin D, which may help support mood—especially in low-sunlight seasons- High smoke point fats (like lard) are safer for cooking and don’t break down as easily- You don’t need to make your own—there are quality sources available to buy- Rendering lard at home is far simpler than most people think- Different types of pork fat (leaf fat vs. back fat) produce different qualities of lard- Using a mix of butter + lard can improve both flavor and nutrition in baking This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/heritage/ https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/botanicals Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ FREE resources:Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required.👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisserCONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)comIf you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

220. The Truth About Seed Oils + How to Make Your Own Healthy Cooking Fat

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/4/19/17/5a994911-d962-4c95-8ecb-9a195328b76b_nt_g...___apr_19__2026_001_simple_doesn_t_mean.mp3

Is gluten really the problem?What if the real story starts long before your flour hits the kitchen?In this episode of Simple Doesn’t Mean Easy, we go straight to the source—literally. Michelle sits down with a multi-generational wheat farmer and miller to uncover what’s changed in our grain over time—and why ancient grains like einkorn are making a comeback.You’ll hear what’s happening in the soil, how modern wheat has been altered for efficiency (not nutrition), and why freshly milled flour behaves completely differently in your baking.And don’t miss the end of this episode—where we break down why some people who struggle with modern wheat can tolerate ancient grains, and what that actually means for your kitchen. In this episode, we cover:-The real difference between ancient grains and modern wheat-Why einkorn is NOT just “another trendy flour”-How farming practices impact nutrition and digestibility-What changes when you mill your own flour at home-Why your bread might not taste like it used to-The surprising truth about gluten (this might change how you think about it) This episode&#39;s sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/teashttps://soulyrested.com/coffee Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required. 👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8PuMy website: https://soulyrested.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrestedPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleVisser CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com If you listen to any of the following shows, we&#39;re sure you&#39;ll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue&#39;s Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science &amp; Nutrition, Maintenance Phase

219. The Truth About Ancient Grains, Gluten & Modern Wheat

Are you longing to simplify things just a little, amidst the crazy, loud, distracting clutter of life? That's where I was just 5 years ago, when my family started on this crazy ride toward simplifying things. Since "simple" is almost never synonymous w...

Are you longing to simplify things just a little, amidst the crazy, loud, distracting clutter of life? That's where I was just 5 years ago, when my family started on this crazy ride toward simplifying things. Since "simple" is almost never synonymous with "easy," I was pretty much a failure at everything I tried. But along the way I learned that it's not only okay, but actually GOOD that simple joys require hard work. So I'm here to be your Encouragement Mentor in this sometimes difficult effort to simplify. Because we can do this, guys. Together.