I've had a really good starter going for a couple years now, started it with yogurt. Best starter ever!
Sorry I haven't checked back recently. I'd love to share my starter recipe! I got it from an old Sunset recipe book.
Heat 1 cup of milk (low fat or whole - not non fat) to 90-100 degrees. Remove from heat and stir in low fat or full fat (again, not non fat) yogurt. Pour into a pre-warmed glass, ceramic, plastic, or stainless steel container and let stand in a *warm place (80 -100 degrees) 18-24 hours.
Your mixture should be like yogurt now. If there is clear liquid, just stir it back in. If it's pink, discard and start over. After the curd has formed, stir in 1 cup ap flour. Cover and let sit in warm place (80-100 degrees) until mixture is full of bubbles and has a good smell. 2- 5 days. If clear liquid forms, stir it in. If liquid turns pink, discard all but 1/4 cup starter and blend in 1 cup each warm milk and flour. Cover and let stand in warm place till bubbly. It's best to use it once a week. Replenish with equal parts milk and flour.
If you're interested, the sourdough waffle recipe which follows is outstanding, and low fat! I'll check back soon
*I used a cooler and jars full of boiling water. I replaced the water jars as needed - wasn't often. A heating pad would work as well - if it doesn't have a shut off switch.
ETA: absolutely you can use home made yogurt
