What Actually Works: Growing Seeds in Alaska with Don Coleson Denali Seed - Best Cool Seeds

In this episode of the Sustainable Alaska Podcast, we sit down with Don Coleson of Best Cool Seeds, also known as Denali Seed, to uncover the story behind Alaska’s trusted seed source.What started in 1977 as an idea most people laughed at has grown into a vital part of Alaska’s food system. Don shares how the company nearly became “a footnote in history,” and why his family chose to step in and carry the legacy forward.We dive into:How seeds are selected specifically for Alaska’s extreme climateThe surprising role of trial-and-error (and customer feedback!)Why some seed varieties disappear—and how they’re being savedThe realities of growing food in the far northAnd why customer service is the real backbone of the businessThis episode is a reminder that behind every seed packet is a story of resilience, adaptation, and people who care deeply about feeding their communities.Episode notes:https://www.bestcoolseeds.com/http://www.denaliseed.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Mattocks of Fertrell to unpack what most people get wrong about feeding their chickens, and what actually leads to healthier, longer-living birds.Jeff shares the story behind Fertrell’s beginning, how a simple experiment with roses turned into an organic nutrition company, and how his own journey led him to become a "fanatic" about animal nutrition.We dive into practical poultry nutrition, from breaking down common mistakes in homemade feed recipes to understanding why store-bought feed often falls short. Jeff also shares nutrient-dense, homestead-style feed recipes using whole, Alaskan local ingredients (including meat, fish, and grains) that can dramatically improve flock health.If you raise chickens—or are thinking about it—this episode will challenge what you think you know about feeding them and give you ways to improve their health, productivity, and longevity.Episode Notes:https://www.fertrell.com/

In this episode of the Sustainable Alaska Podcast, Tandy sits down with Sarah Lewis a Health Home and Family Development Agent at University of Alaska Fairbanks to break down Alaska’s cottage food and homemade food regulations.If you’ve ever wondered what foods you can legally sell from your home kitchen, this conversation is for you.Sarah explains the shift from Alaska’s original cottage food laws to the newer homemade food regulations, including what foods qualify as non-potentially hazardous, which foods require direct sales, and what products aren’t allowed at all. They also dig into labeling requirements, selling through third parties, and some surprising gray areas, like canned goods, fermented foods, and cream cheese.If you're selling sourdough at the farmers market or thinking about turning your homestead kitchen into a small business, this episode helps clear up the confusion so you can move forward with confidence.Episode Notes:UAF Cooperative Extension: https://www.uaf.edu/ces/Juneau Extension Office: https://www.uaf.edu/ces/districts/juneauTo make an appointment with me: https://bit.ly/Sarah-Lewis-aptDEC Homemade Foods website: https://dec.alaska.gov/eh/fss/homemade-food/

In this episode, we sit down with Carolyn Thomas from Homesteading Family to talk about the real story behind their homesteading journey. One filled with mistakes, trial and error, and a desire to help other families build a more independent lifestyle.Carolyn shares how she and her husband started homesteading when information was hard to find. What began as a small project to help other moms during nap time quickly grew into a platform teaching families skills for food, home, and self-reliance.We’re also excited to share that Carolyn and Josh Thomas will be the keynote speakers at the Alaska Homestead Expo & Marketplace, happening Memorial Day Weekend, May 22–25, 2026 at the Big Lake Lion’s Club.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed starting your homesteading journey, this episode will remind you that every expert started as a beginner.

Preparedness to Purpose: The GrainMaker Journey with Randy and Bonnie Jones In this episode, we go behind the scenes of how Y2K uncertainty unexpectedly sparked the creation of GrainMaker. What began as a desire for preparedness and self-reliance during the Y2K era turned into the invention of one of the most respected grain mills in the homesteading world.They don’t just grind beautiful flour for bread—you can also crack grain for animal feed, mill corn, and handle bulk grains with ease. We even chat about the bicycle attachment that lets you power your mill by pedaling, making it a fun and practical off-grid option.It’s a simple conversation about durable tools, self-reliance, and having the ability to feed both your family and your animals straight from your own grain supply.Episode Notes:GrainMaker FacebookGrainMaker Website

From Soil Health, to Health and Wellness in Humans: A Deep Dive into Salt with Michael Sileck - Baja Gold Salt Co.Salt is often treated as a simple pantry staple—but it plays a much bigger role in both the soil beneath our feet and the health of our bodies.In this episode, we sit down with Michael Sileck of Baja Gold Salt Co. for a deep dive into salt, starting with its role in soil health and regenerative agriculture, and carrying that conversation all the way through to human health and wellness. We talk about why mineral balance matters, how different salts are produced, and what’s often lost when salt is over-processed.This conversation explores:The connection between soil minerals and nutrient-dense foodWhy not all salt is created equalHow unrefined, mineral-rich salt supports both plants and peopleWhat to look for when choosing salt for your home and homesteadWhether you’re a grower, homesteader, or just someone curious about real food and natural health, this episode will change the way you think about salt - forever.

In this behind-the-scenes conversation, Todd Begettis of Alaska Farm Supply shares what really goes into sourcing high-quality materials for Alaska growers and homesteaders. We talk about how products are chosen, why quality matters in Alaska’s unique conditions, and what it takes to support sustainable farms, gardens, and homesteads across the state.Episode Notes:https://akfarmsupply.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tom Roskos to discuss how he got started working with animals, why truly loving your livestock is one of the biggest keys to long-term success, and how paying attention early makes all the difference.We talk about what really happens when you pick up the phone and call for help with your livestock. From barnyard emergencies to everyday concerns, he shares his wisdom on using natural remedies confidently, and knowing when it’s time to reach out for experienced guidance.Most of all, this conversation is about building a knowledgeable community - homesteaders who are willing to learn, share, ask questions, and support each other instead of going it alone.And if you want to learn from him in person, Dr. Tom will also be a Featured Speaker at the Alaska Homestead Expo, where he’ll be teaching and connecting with livestock owners who want to grow their skills and confidence even more.Episode Notes:https://www.facebook.com/doctomroskos/https://doctomroskos.com/

Fresh-milled flour doesn’t have to be complicated. In this episode with Rose Homestead, we break down why milling your own flour is simpler than most people think.We talk about getting started with fresh-milled flour, choosing grains, and ways to use it without overhauling your kitchen routine. This episode is perfect for homesteaders, home bakers, and anyone curious about traditional food practices who wants real, nourishing bread.If you’ve been curious about fresh-milled flour but unsure where to start, this episode offers encouragement, clarity, and a reminder that going back to the basics often makes life simpler.Episode notes:The Rose Homestead Official Site (therosehomestead.com)YouTubeFacebook

Chris from Chris Outdoors (Canada) joins us to talk about growing mushrooms in cold, northern climates. We cover beginner tips, and why mushrooms are a great addition to any homestead - even in Alaska.Show Notes:Chris Outdoors Website - https://www.chrisoutdoors.caChris Outdoors on SubStack - https://substack.com/@chrisoutdoorsonChris Outdoors on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@chrisoutdoorsonWild Muskoka Botanicals Website - https://www.wildmuskoka.comWild Muskoka on Instagram @WildMuskoka - https://www.instagram.com/wildmuskoka/📅 Mark your calendars: February 9th for a FREE webinar with Chris Outdoors - Hosted by Common Ground Alaska. Click this link to register!Want to purchase the full course? Visit:https://www.chrisoutdoors.ca/mushroom_course_alaska?sa=sa0260917196c110dcce7a6258f1ebb1a9f50d1e72💰 Use code ALASKA25 to save 25% on The Mushroom Course