Simple Doesn't Mean Easy
Simple Doesn't Mean Easy
Michelle Visser
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'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.
229. 15 ways to do things differently this summer
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.This episode's sponsors:Meet Guardian Grains, an amazing organic, regenerative family farm and stock up on the best hertiage grains with my exclusive code here-- https://soulyrested.com/heritagehttps://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/teasLinks discussed in this episode:Episode 205 - How to Eat Better and Save Money (with Ruth Ann Zimmerman) https://open.spotify.com/episode/0HeEgLe99an2PHiRR31Ebw?si=9-01VLdcTvepdnkKmHjYMwEpisode 189 - Three Kitchen Tools I Use on Repeat https://open.spotify.com/episode/46p9aGX4wOAHP7BphdtPKt?si=nQEyAZsuRc6lVvglynBmNwThe Most simple floral Syrup recipe: https://youtu.be/0eVJGANdnSQ?si=0M7j_H2YJVnefFVsPodcast Email Signup: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/Kombucha Resources: https://soulyrested.com/kombucha/Favorite Loose Leaf Tea Recipes : https://soulyrested.com/teas/Dehydrator Buying Guide: https://soulyrested.com/choosing-dehydrator/Freeze Dryer Cost Analysis: https://soulyrested.com/freeze-dryer-pay-off/More Resources: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're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
Jun 29
41 min
228. The Truth About Backyard Chickens (What No One Tells Beginners)
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's learned after more than a decade of raising chickens. You'll learn everything you need to know to prevent the 3 chicken care problems you're bound to run into before they become expensive headaches.You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at Michelle's custom chicken coop, including the features she now considers essential, the upgrades she'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: https://www.thehenhousecollection.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=youtube_leads_fall2025 If you'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's sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/heritagehttps://soulyrested.com/teasGrab 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're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
Jun 22
46 min
227. The Truth About Grief, Gratitude, & Healing
What if the very things you're rushing past today become the things you'd miss most tomorrow?In today's episode, you'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'll discover why the smallest moments in life often matter the most—and why many of us don't realize it until it's too late.You'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't soon forget.Whether you're grieving a loss, navigating a difficult season, waiting for a breakthrough, or simply feeling worn down by life's challenges, this episode will encourage you to notice the joys and find beauty even in the most difficult places.You'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'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'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/@MichelleVisserCONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)comIf you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
Jun 15
46 min
226. The Hidden Danger of Chronic Stress No One Talks About
In this eye-opening episode, you'll learn how chronic stress and anxiety sometimes manifest in surprising and even frightening physical ways. You'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'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'll be challenged to consider an important question: Are you fully appreciating the people you love? You'll discover simple ways to strengthen your relationships and avoid taking everyday moments for granted.Whether you'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'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/@MichelleVisserCONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)comIf you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
Jun 8
48 min
225. Why Doing It All Is Breaking Women (And How to Build a Life That Matters)
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'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/heritageKey Takeaways:- Success doesn'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'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)comIf you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
Jun 1
40 min
224. Why Your “Clean” Skincare May Not Be Clean
It'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's sponsor: https://soulyrested.com/soapKey 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 barrierGrab 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/q5ecjrundzAll 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're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
May 25
51 min
223. Why Your Fresh Flour Bread Fails & the Fix That Changes Everything
In this episode of the Simple Doesn'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'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.
May 18
20 min
222. The Secret to Nutritious Breakfasts (that you never knew!)
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 contentThis episode's sponsors:One of my favorite family farms, for heritage grains & fresh flour: https://soulyrested.com/heritagehttps://soulyrested.com/trueleafGo 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're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
May 11
34 min
221. 99% of Cereals Have This… And It’s Still Legal
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'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's sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/heritage/ https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/botanicalsGrab 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/@MichelleVisserCONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)comIf you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
May 4
45 min
220. The Truth About Seed Oils + How to Make Your Own Healthy Cooking Fat
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 "lard"): https://99counties.com?sca_ref=8835672.PUT7XrjQpTUhe Fill up a box with amazing meat while you're there!More on all this in today'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 bakingThis episode's sponsors:https://soulyrested.com/heritage/ https://soulyrested.com/trueleafhttps://soulyrested.com/botanicalsGrab 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're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
Apr 27
33 min
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