The Truth About Backyard Chickens (What No One Tells Beginners) | ep. 228 @MichelleVisser
The Truth About Backyard Chickens (What No One Tells Beginners) | ep. 228  @MichelleVisser
Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Thinking about getting backyard chickens? There are 3 problems you really need to know about first.

Most people see the fresh eggs, cute chicks, and homestead charm—but few talk about the challenges that catch new chicken owners completely off guard. What happens when your hens suddenly stop laying strong eggs? How do you deal with parasites without spending a fortune? And can you really protect your flock from predators?

In this episode, Michelle shares the hard-earned lessons she's learned after more than a decade of raising chickens. You'll learn everything you need to know to prevent the 3 chicken care problems you're bound to run into before they become expensive headaches.

You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at Michelle's custom chicken coop, including the features she now considers essential, the upgrades she'd make differently, and what she wishes she had known before investing in a new coop.

Get the inside scoop on how to order a custom-built coop: thehenhousecollection.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=youtube_leads_fall2025

If you're wondering whether backyard chickens are worth it—or you want to avoid the mistakes that frustrate so many beginners—this episode will help you start with confidence.

This episode's sponsors:
soulyrested.com/trueleaf
soulyrested.com/heritage
soulyrested.com/teas

Chicken Supplement Recipe that helps your chickens fight off parasites and improve their gut health overall:

Join me making this chicken supplement in this video: ((coming soon))

1 cup pumpkin seeds-- for protein, healthy fats, and to help them fight off parasites, 

1 cup garlic powder-- to fight off infections & improve good gut health

1 cup Cayene pepper- to build up antioxidants & improve digestion

2 cups Flax seed- for digestive health support and general gut health and feather quality

1 cup oregano-- a natural antibiotic, supports gut health, and boosts the immune system

I feed my 8 hens 1-2 TB with their regular food daily.

2 ways to serve chickens this supplement:

1. On top of dry food

2. Mixed into fermented food


Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: soulyrested.com/pantry

Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: soulyrested.com/podcast
FREE resources:
Learn how to use fresh milled flour: graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7
Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52
Learn about dehydrating food: graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvq
Learn about baking with maple syrup: view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747
Learn about making your own maple syrup: graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundz
Looking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: soulyrested.com/howto

All my favorite ingredients: soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen

About Michelle Visser
Hi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.
My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required.
👋Find me in all the places:
My book: amzn.to/45Pt8Pu
My website: soulyrested.com
Instagram: instagram.com/souly.rested
Facebook: facebook.com/soulyrested
Pinterest: pinterest.com/soulyrested
youtube: youtube.com/@MichelleVisser

CONTACT: michelle@soulyrested(dot)com

If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll love ours too! Ancestral Kitchen, Pioneering Today with Melissa K Norris, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass, Pantry Chat with Homesteading Family, Sue's Healthy Minutes with Sue Becker, Old Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger, The Wildly Capable Show with Liz and Joey Haselmayer, ZOE Science & Nutrition, Maintenance Phase
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Michelle Visser |

The Truth About Backyard Chickens (What No One Tells Beginners) | ep. 228

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