The Ready Life

Need a backup generator and can't figure out which one to get? This episode is for you! In this episode, we are drilling down into generators with some tips to help you choose the right one and avoid a costly mistake on a cheapo generator that dies quickly (best case) or that ruins a bunch of electronics in your home (worst case). While fuel-powered generators don't provide renewable energ...

Here's your cheat sheet of questions to ask before purchasing a country home or property. On this episode, we cover 5 of the key questions that need discussion here. But you can also download the full sheet of 20 questions, accompanied by details on why they are important and how to interpret the answers. Just visit the link below... Download All 20 Questions + Details: https://www.thereadylif...

Conventional electric water heaters depend on the power grid and use tons of electricity, making them unsuitable for an off-grid solar power system. Thankfully, we have a number of great off-grid alternatives to choose from. Some are very convenient, while others are totally renewable and independent. Whatever your goals, this episode will equip you with an overview of the options you need to know...

Gas or Diesel can go bad in mere months. Here's the method we used to store gasoline in a hot and humid climate for 6+ years--and it still ran perfectly in the car. Just to be clear, relying on fuel isn't ideal, but there are times when a fuel-powered device can make life a lot easier. And why not just have a supply of fuel on hand so you can use it? This episode explains how to make sure...

Wood heat is the most independent heat source there is! But there’s one downside–it needs wood. Unfortunately, firewood doesn’t usually fall in your lap! And while the cheapest sources require more work, there are really easy options if you're willing to pay more.  And in this episode we share our top 6 sourcesfor where to find firewood. We’ll also discuss some tips for wood heat alternatives ...

If you need to relocate to the country, one of your first steps should be to make a plan for how you're going to make a living. In this episode, we pull from our recent Country Living Survey to see how folks are making a living in the country. And we also discuss a systematic plan of action for figuring out what is best for you, when it comes to making a living in the country. Take our Country...

Air conditioning has historically been challenging to handle with an off-grid solar power system. But times have changed and we have great news for you! But, if you want to go off the grid with air conditioning and do it with a reasonable budget, you'll need to use some strategy. And that's what we've got for you on this episode! Download "What You Can Do NOW To Start Going Off Th...

Wildfires are a part of life in the western US. It even affects the East at times too. This episode covers what you need to know to start preparing your home for wildfires. We also present the controversial option of sheltering in place to actively participate in the defense of your home. In the US, Emergency Management typically only gives one option--evacuate and hope your home survives. But tod...

Is your well running dry? If you are struggling with a poor well or low-flow spring, this episode is for you! We'll walk through your most effective options for making a low-yield water source workable. And you might be surprised at how well it can work when you implement the right strategies! Show Notes: https://www.thereadylife.com/2023/08/got-water-woes-your-how-to-guide-for-low-yield-water...

What to do with freezer food when the power goes out? And what are the best non-electric options for preserving your food? Get the scoop on all this and more, in this practical episode! Food Planning Calculator: https://www.thereadylife.com/foodplanner Show Notes: https://www.thereadylife.com/12

Overwhelmed as you embark on your off-grid adventure? Join us as we open up about the realities of homestead overwhelm and share our personal journey through the disarray that visits you whenever you feel overwhelmed. As fellow homesteaders, we understand the challenges that come with striving for self-sufficiency. And in this episode, we share 7 tips that help us deal with the root causes of our...

In this episode, we share a huge tip from our off-grid journey. Off-grid solar power can be a great investment in the long run, but it does require an up-front investment. If that’s something you are not able to swing right now, this week’s episode is for you. It’s all about taking small, budget-friendly steps to get you off the grid. Whether you're currently on the grid and looking to transit...

What happens to your water well when the power goes off? No more water! In part 2 of this series on independent water systems, we show you how to turn your conventional water well into an independent water system, so you aren't dependent on the power company for the ability to have water. See Episode 8 for part 1 of this series: www.thereadylife.com/8 Show Notes, Important Links, and Transcrip...

What would life look like at your home without water? Water is one of the most essential resources your homestead needs, but it’s often taken for granted or overlooked. Many folks think they are all set since they have a well. But all it takes is a disruption of power for any reason and they find out how independent their water system is. This episode is part 1 in a short series on water, and we’l...

Happy Independence Day! Join us on a special episode as we delve into the incredible legacy of Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island, and his pivotal role in shaping America's liberty & independence. Find the parallels between his pursuit of freedom and the modern-day quest for independence in homesteading--breaking free from 'the system' to secure essential needs like water,...

We’ve tried almost every rural internet option so you don’t have to. This episode distills almost 20 years of remote off-grid internet experience, so you can pick the best option for your needs. In this episode: Old-school high-altitude satellite internet (i.e. HughesNet) Wireless broadband internet (via cell phone towers) Options for improving signal with the above Local wireless towers (on strat...

Explore how to reclaim the food independence that our great-grandparents had (and our parents forfeited). We believe this food planning method is the absolute simplest way to figure out how much of each ingredient you will need. It works for any time period (1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, etc). You’ll also learn how to gradually ramp up your food storage where it doesn’t break your budget. A...

A realistic view of how much an off grid solar power system really costs. Plus, the top 3 ways to save money when setting up an off grid solar system. In this episode: 3 sample off grid solar systems Descriptions of what you can do with each sample system Estimated range of cost of materials for each system Top 3 ways to save money with an off grid solar system Show notes, important links, transcr...

Is off grid solar power an expensive trending fad? Or is it a solid solution to a serious problem we face? In this episode: How power utilities are starting to be weaponized to enforce government policies Privacy implications of being on the grid How we have made ourselves so dependent on electricity Does going off grid have to cost a fortune? #1 way to make off grid solar more affordable Reasons...

Some of the most common questions we receive are regarding location - how far out is far enough, or too far? How to figure out what area to pick for your homestead? These questions and more are covered in this episode. We'll share our thoughts on finding the right balance between remote and secluded, and our process for finding what works for your family since everyone is different. Show notes...

Here's how it all started...many years ago. In this episode, we share our country living story, along with many lessons we learned in the School of Hard Knocks. I grew up down South in a gated community with almost 2,000 homes in it. Now we live in the North on a remote mountain wilderness homestead in Idaho. How'd that happen? Find out on this episode. Plus, you'll gain valuable tips...

In this introductory episode, we'll briefly give you an idea of what to expect from The Ready Life podcast. How to choose a location and property, live with off-grid solar power, grow and raise your own food, set up a water system that isn't dependent on utilities, heat your home with a renewable source, and much more! Don't miss an episode by subscribing to our email newsletter: https...