How to make root beer from scratch, without using extract?

Hi, I'm new to this home-brewing hobby, but I'm very interested in brewing my own root beer, ginger ales, and eventually, beer. Anyway, I'm looking to start this new endeavor by making my own root beer from scratch. I've seen some YouTube vids and walk-through guides online, but all of them list root beer extract in their recipes. I want to make it from scratch, without using an extract, for pride's sakes :)...So my question is, what do I substitute for the extract? Thank you kindly for all who answer.