Seed saving is one of the most valuable skills a gardener can learn, and in this episode I’m joined by Don Tipping of Siskiyou Seeds to dive deep into the why and how of saving your own garden seed. We’ll cover the difference between open-pollinated, heirloom, and hybrid varieties, which crops are best for beginners, how to prevent cross-pollination, and tips for harvesting, drying, and storing seeds so they last for years.

Don also shares how seed saving helps you develop plants uniquely adapted to your microclimate, creating the heirlooms of tomorrow. Whether you’re brand new to seed saving or looking to refine your skills, this conversation will inspire and equip you to grow a more resilient, self-sufficient garden.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/481

This podcast is sponsored by Redmond Real Salt. Did you know Redmond sells much more than just salt? I love their bentonite clay powder and it’s a must-have in our house because we use it for wound care. Check out all of Redmond’s products at melissaknorris.com/redmond-salt and use code "PIONEERING" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Think you need a traditional root cellar to keep your harvest fresh through the winter? Think again. In this episode of the Pioneering Today Podcast, Melissa K. Norris sits down with Sam Knapp of Off Beet Farm in Alaska to talk about practical, no-fuss ways to store root vegetables without a root cellar.

You’ll learn the three keys to long-lasting storage—temperature, humidity, and airflow—as well as simple methods like using a spare fridge, Rubbermaid totes, or packing in sand or shavings. Sam also shares which crops are the most forgiving, the best varieties for long-term storage, and how to troubleshoot common problems like shriveling and rodents.

Whether you’re a backyard gardener or growing a year’s supply of food, this episode will give you the confidence to keep carrots, beets, potatoes, and cabbages fresh for months.

For more information and any links mentioned in today’s podcast, visit https://melissaknorris.com/480

This podcast is sponsored by Azure Standard. For first-time Azure customers, you can get 15% off your first order of $100 or more by using coupon code "MELISSA15" at checkout: https://melissaknorris.com/azure-standard

Think from-scratch cooking is hard or takes too much time? The truth is, with a stocked pantry, a few simple substitutions, and some foundational kitchen skills, you can make healthy, homemade meals in less time than it takes to run to the store.

In this podcast, we're busting the top myths about from-scratch cooking and showing you how to:

✅ Swap ingredients with easy substitutions (no last-minute store runs!)

✅ Make boxed food favorites from scratch—faster and healthier

✅ Save time with meal planning that actually fits your family

✅ Reheat leftovers so they taste fresh and delicious

✅ Build a stocked pantry that makes dinner stress-free

You’ll see how learning just a handful of simple techniques can transform your kitchen, your budget, and your confidence as a home cook. From homemade cream-of-soup that takes four minutes to a DIY biscuit mix that beats Bisquick, cooking from scratch has never been easier.

👉 Want to go deeper? Join me for my FREE live training, “From-Scratch Cooking Made Easy,” on September 8th where I’ll share pantry staples, substitution secrets, and time-saving tips: https://melissaknorris.com/kitchen

Related Videos & Resources:

• Homemade Cream of Soup Substitute: https://melissaknorris.com/the-best-cream-of-soup-recipes-youll-ever-make/

• How to Meal Plan Without the Stress: https://melissaknorris.com/podcast/how-to-meal-plan-for-easy-healthy-meals-from-scratch/

• Homemade Biscuit Mix Recipe: https://melissaknorris.com/homemade-biscuit-mix/

✨ If you’re ready to ditch the boxes and serve your family nourishing meals every night—without the overwhelm—this podcast is for you!