Episode 70

70 - Composting Renews


This episode explores the value and practical benefits of composting. From reducing household waste to enriching the soil naturally, composting is a simple yet powerful way to participate in the earth’s natural cycles. Whether done in a backyard, on a balcony, or under the kitchen sink, composting brings ecological mindfulness into daily life.

Top Topics:

Why Composting Matters
Composting can divert up to 30% of what typically ends up in landfills. This process not only reduces waste but also prevents nutrient loss and supports healthier soil ecosystems without synthetic fertilizers.

Different Methods for Every Lifestyle
Composting isn’t just for gardeners. Options include backyard bins, tumblers, worm bins, and even countertop electric composters. Each method suits different spaces, budgets, and preferences—making it easy to find a setup that works.

Understanding Greens and Browns
Success in composting depends on the right mix of “greens” (food scraps, coffee grounds, fresh grass) and “browns” (leaves, paper, straw). A 2:1 ratio of browns to greens is ideal for creating odor-free, efficient compost.

What to Include and Avoid
Good composting includes fruit peels, cardboard, dead houseplants, and even dryer lint from natural fibers. Avoid meat, dairy, or seedy weeds, which can cause problems like pests or unwanted sprouting.

Takeaways:
Composting is more than a waste solution—it’s a meaningful contribution to sustainability. It enriches the soil, reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, and aligns daily habits with the natural cycles of decay and renewal. Even small efforts can yield big environmental rewards, showing that even in decomposition, there is purpose and potential.


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Buzz Blossom and Squeak Website https://buzzblossomandsqueak.com/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/schmern

Blog Headquarters at https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com/

Email the podcast at mailto: jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

About the Podcast

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Buzz Blossom & Squeak
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About your host

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Jill McKinley

I’m Jill from the Northwoods. Professionally, I work in Health IT, where I untangle complex systems and help people use technology more effectively. But at heart, I’m a curious lifelong learner—always exploring how things work, why people grow the way they do, and how even the smallest steps can spark real transformation. That curiosity fuels everything I do, from problem-solving at work to sharing insights through my creative projects.

My journey wasn’t always easy. Growing up, I faced a rough childhood, and books became my lifeline. They introduced me to voices of ancient wisdom, modern psychology, and the natural world around me. Those pages taught me resilience, gave me perspective, and helped me see that wisdom is everywhere—waiting to be noticed, gathered, and shared.