Biggest Canning Mistakes I See Every Year

Biggest Canning Mistakes I See Every Year

Author: Wendi Bergin March 3, 2026 Duration: 24:28
Have you ever thought about entering a canning competition… but talked yourself out of it? In this episode, Wendi pulls back the curtain from her role as Chairperson of the Food Preservation Division at the Florida Strawberry Festival. After receiving 41 jars from first-time canners, seasoned homesteaders, teens, and small business owners, she shares what she learned from behind the judging table. From common safety mistakes to the surprising trend of what actually wins, this episode is equal parts encouragement and education. You’ll learn: Why modern tomatoes aren’t the same as Grandma’s A simple explanation of pH and why it matters The real reason some jars are disqualified Why removing your rings after processing is essential What judges actually gravitate toward How to enter with confidence, even if you’re new If you’ve ever wanted to grow your skills, build confidence, and participate more deeply in your community, this episode will inspire you to bring your best jar this year. Do it well. Do it safely. Do it joyfully.

Wendi Bergin hosts Homesteading Made Simple I Joyfully Prepared, a space where the romanticized idea of off-grid living meets the reality of a busy schedule. This podcast is built on the understanding that building a self-reliant life happens in small, consistent steps rather than dramatic leaps. You'll hear conversations that dig into the tangible skills of gardening, food preservation, and kitchen efficiency, all framed around integrating them into the life you already have. Wendi’s approach is notably calm and practical, stripping away the overwhelm often found online. Episodes serve as a guide to building a pantry, understanding food storage, and cultivating a resilient mindset without requiring a hundred acres. The focus is always on the achievable, emphasizing that homesteading is less about a location and more about a set of purposeful, daily choices. Tune in for a common-sense companion on the path to preparedness and greater self-reliance, wherever you happen to be planting your roots.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Homesteading Made Simple I Joyfully Prepared
Podcast Episodes
Simplifying the Kitchen: The First Step to an Easier Year [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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The Expected Guest - A Christmas Story [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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From the Soil to the Soul: What I Learned This Month [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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In this inspiring podcast episode, host Wendy Bergen takes a deep dive into her learning experiences from the month of November, offering a thoughtful reflection on her journey of self-discovery. Wendy encourages you to…
Simplifying the Holiday Hustle: My Confession About Christmas [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Duration: 24:57
With countless responsibilities on their plate, it's no wonder that many mothers neglect their own well-being! In this episode, Wendi shares practical self-care strategies that mothers can easily incorporate into their b…
Your Family’s New Meal Planning Buddy: How ChatGPT Can Help [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:35
Meal planning can be a real challenge, especially for busy individuals juggling multiple responsibilities! However, Wendi has found an exciting solution that might simplify this task for many families: using ChatGPT to s…