The Cottagers Podcast, in association with Cottage Pastures, is on a mission to inspire, support and promote agricultural pursuits characterized by farming and homesteading. We are inspired by our Catholic Faith and believe agriculture is a great means to illuminate the beauty of that faith in the world today. Join us as we talk about farming, homesteading, the Catholic faith and more!
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41 recent
September 30, 202636 min
The Best Laid Plans of Homesteaders: Navigating the Unexpected
In this episode, we explore the realities of homesteading, including the challenges, failures, and lessons learned from our journey of land and property hunting, gardening, and managing a growing family. We share personal stories and insights to help others navigate their own paths to self-sufficiency.
August 24, 2026Episode 944 min
Putting Down Roots: Family, Faith, and Land with Andrew Ewell
Andrew Ewell discusses the mission of Verax Patria to address land access issues for families, the importance of community and faith in land stewardship, and the innovative solutions being developed to help families acquire and sustain farmland.
August 7, 2026Episode 844 min
Welcome Back! The Realities of Homesteading: Challenges and Rewards
After a bit of an absence for harvest season we are back with another episode where we get real about both the joys and rewards of homesteading as well as its challenges. We have learned a lot about this over the last year and can't wait to share with you all.
May 11, 2026Episode 744 min
Maple Syrup: A Family Labor of Love with Tim Cermak
Most people underestimate the hard work, history, and heart behind their favorite maple syrup—and many are shocked to learn how much effort goes into every single drop. In this episode, Tim Cermak of Sugarbush Creek Farm in Middlefield, Ohio, breaks down the fascinating journey from a childhood fascination sparked by a children's book to a multi-generational family business that’s shipped syrup to all 50 states—and beyond. Tim reveals the secrets of making authentic, 100% pure maple syrup, from harvesting over 2,200 trees in Northeast Ohio to using modern tech like reverse osmosis while honoring traditional methods.
May 4, 2026Episode 633 min
Homesteading and Building a Village with Jason Craig
Matthew is joined by author and homesteader, Jason Craig to discuss the challenges and joys of homesteading in today's consumerist, suburbanized culture, by reconnecting to our natural roots in family, community, and the land itself. This conversation explores the deep reasons behind the modern interest in small farming and homesteading, emphasizing natural human inclinations, cultural roots, and practical steps for starting a land-based lifestyle.
April 27, 2026Episode 532 min
Trusting in the Good Shepherd with Matt and Rachel Langer
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rachel and Matt Langer as they share their journey from mink farming to establishing Lumen Christi Farm, a nonprofit dedicated to farming, faith, and community service. Discover how faith, resilience, and a love for farming transformed their lives and created a sanctuary for spiritual and agricultural growth.
April 20, 2026Episode 444 min
How the Catholic Land Movement Connects Faith, Land, and Community with Michael Thomas
This conversation explores the history, mission, and current developments of the Catholic Land Movement, emphasizing its spiritual and practical significance for modern Catholics interested in land stewardship, community building, and faith-based agriculture.
April 13, 2026Episode 344 min
Homesteading and Focusing on Eternity with Greg Cello
In this conversation, Mathew and Greg Cello discuss the journey of establishing a homestead, the importance of family and community, and the role of faith in their lives. Greg shares his experiences transitioning from military life to homesteading, emphasizing the significance of rooting oneself in a community and the lessons learned from working the land. They explore the challenges and joys of parenting in a homesteading environment, the value of writing and sharing insights, and the aspirations for the future, including plans for sheep and wool production. The conversation highlights the connection between land stewardship, family legacy, and spiritual growth.
March 4, 2026Episode 132 min
Embracing the Cottager Lifestyle
Mathew and Carissa discuss the evolution of their farm, Cottage Pastures, and the podcast itself. They share updates on their operations, including the growth of garlic and other products, and the importance of distinguishing between homesteading and farming. The conversation delves into the challenges faced in farming, the impact of seasonal changes, and their plans for improving efficiency and resource management on the farm. The hosts emphasize the significance of building systems and laying a strong foundation for future success in both farming and homesteading.
November 14, 2023Episode 348 min
Supporting a Catholic Family and Establishing Catholic Culture in the Home and on the Homestead with Eric and Suzanne Sammons.
On this episode we spoke with Eric and Suzan Sammons about raising children, developing strong Catholic families, and more. Eric and Suzan Sammons are the parents of seven children. Suzan is the author of The Stations of the Cross in Slow Motion: A Daily Devotion for Lent which will be available through Sophia Institute Press in January of 2024) She is a homeschooling mother and editor of several Catholic publications and has published numerous articles in Catholic outlets on topics including child-rearing and education, the dignity of the unborn, holistic health, and Catholic spirituality. Eric Sammons is the Editor-in-Chief of Crisis Magazine and the author of eight books, including Deadly Indifference: How the Church Lost Her Mission and How We Can Reclaim It. Together, they wrote The Jesse Tree: An Advent Devotion. This episode reminds us of the importance of consciously striving to build a home that supports the flourishing of the Catholic faith, in the home, on the homestead, and everywhere. We are excited to bring you this episode as a production of Little Way Farm and Homestead and hope you find it as inspiring as we do. Other Notes: Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/ Purchase the Jesse Tree: An Advent Devotion by Eric and Suzan Sammons at: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/the-jesse-tree/ More from Eric Sammons, including links to his books: https://ericsammons.com/ ___ Check out more from Little Way Farm and Homestead, including information about the Farm and More at Littlewayhomestead.com.
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