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: https://www.thehenhousecollection.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=article&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:

https://soulyrested.com/trueleaf

https://soulyrested.com/heritage

https://soulyrested.com/teas

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

Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/

FREE resources:

Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7

Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52

Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvq

Learn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747

Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundz

Looking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/

All my favorite ingredients: https://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: https://amzn.to/45Pt8Pu

My website: https://soulyrested.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souly.rested/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulyrested

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/soulyrested/

youtube: https://www.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