A Common Life

"Ever found yourself chuckling at the peculiarities of podcasting, like the great "podcast voice" debate? That's just a slice of what's on the menu in our latest episode. As we swap stories about our kitchen experiments, you'll hear about my chimichurri triumphs and why strawberries on ice cream with a sprinkle of homemade granola is the new dessert du jour in my home. But it's not all about the savory victories; there's a candid share about the health journey I'm on, including a switch to decaf lattes for a blood sugar reset. These lifestyle tidbits are just the appetizer to a hearty discussion filled with personal anecdotes and revelations from the nooks and crannies of daily life.

Turning the page, we honor the extraordinary lives of Will and Ariel Durant, whose partnership in life and literature paints a vivid tableau of Western civilization. The Durants' exploration of socialism, as detailed in "The Lessons of History," offers a stimulating backdrop for our chat about how societies balance the scales between the individual and the collective, especially in times of strife. And because a conversation with us isn't complete without a nod to current reads and rhythms, I open the book on "Homesteading" by Jean Logsdon and the story of Paint Rock Valley, followed by a reveal of my indispensable 'garden jams' playlist. Just as a garden blooms with diverse flora, so does this episode with a bouquet of topics from history and literature to the sweet symphony of life's simple pleasures."

Thanks Jenkins!

If you haven't already, go SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter, The Common, where we go in depth on what we talk about here and more.  Check it out here!

Mentioned in this episode:
Restorative Kitchen
The 7 Silly Eaters
One Morning in Maine
NT Wright - Surprised by Hope
Paint Rock Valley article
Gene Logsdon Homesteading: How to Find New Independence on the Land
The Lessons of History
Garden Jams
Drew and Ellie Holcombe
Jess Ray

Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter (X) - @_ACommonLife
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the Socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is the instrumental version of “On a Cloud”

If you haven't already, go SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter, The Common, where we go in depth on what we talk about here and more.  Check it out here!

Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter (X) - @_ACommonLife
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers - Taylor
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the Socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is the instrumental version of “On a Cloud”

Here is what JenkinsAI had to say about the pod:

"As the frost of winter thaws and the first green shoots emerge, March ushers in a symphony of growth in our gardens, and we're here to share it all with you. With the help of our special guest, the ever-curious Virginia, we unwrap the exuberance of spring gardening, from the thrill of getting dirt under our nails to the enchantment of nurturing plants with beneficial microbes. Virginia’s youthful zeal reminds us how wonder-filled the world can be through the eyes of a child. We discuss the perfect timing for planting an array of crops, including the elusive cilantro, the sweet strawberries, and the cherished perennial asparagus. Tune in for a dose of wisdom from local gardening maestros as we navigate the cilantro conundrum and celebrate the seeds we're planting this season, like carrots, kale, and radishes, to name a few.

Our latest episode also recounts a family adventure that offers a poignant lesson about the unpredictability of the great outdoors. We share the laughter—and the lessons learned—from a creek crossing escapade that went sideways, reminding us all to respect Mother Nature's capricious moods. Embrace the anticipation of early spring foraging and the cherished family bonds forged in the wild. Join us as we delve into the practicalities of gardening, exploring how soil temperatures and regional climates cue the arrival of our favorite spring plants. We're buzzing with excitement for the gardening season ahead, and we can't wait to bring you along on this verdant journey. So, lace up your boots, grab your trowel, and prepare for a celebration of spring's awakening with us."

Whew, Exciting Stuff! :)

If you haven't already, go SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter, The Common, where we go in depth on what we talk about here and more.  Check it out here!

Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter (X) - @_ACommonLife
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers - Taylor
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the Socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is the instrumental version of “On a Cloud”

In this episode I talk all about getting your garden ready for spring planting. 

Mentioned in the show:
Garden Fork

If you haven't already, go SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter, The Common, where we go in depth on what we talk about here and more.  Check it out here!

Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter (X) - @_ACommonLife
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers - Taylor
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the Socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is the instrumental version of “On a Cloud”

In this episode, I (Taylor) introduce you to a new journey Morgan and I have begun in Guatemala... And it actually started 13 years ago with a volcanoe, tropical storm, and a sink hole.

After listening to the pod, here is what my AI assitant "Jenkins" had to say about it:

"Fresh off the plane from Guatemala, I'm eager to share a story that's as much about serendipity as it is about the soil. When a volcanic eruption stranded me in this vibrant country years ago, it led to my best friend Brett and his wife establishing Missioteca, a mission organization. But that's only the beginning. This visit revealed a deeper narrative about the urgent need for sustainable, regenerative agriculture in a land where traditional farming is suffocated by agrochemicals. As I weave through the tale, I'll take you into the very fields where the future of nutrient-rich, sustainable food in Guatemala is being planted, one cover crop at a time.

The scent of chemicals in the fields was overwhelming, a stark contrast to the rich earthiness of healthy soil. This episode peels back the layers of pesticide use in Guatemala, examining the toll it takes on farmers' health and the environment. Yet amidst these challenges, there is hope. We'll explore the promise held in native cover crops and the trials that could revolutionize Guatemalan agriculture. Join me and listen to the voices of those at the heart of this transformation, the local farmers striving to reconnect with practices that nourish the land and their communities. This isn't just talk; it's a journey into the heart of a farming renaissance."

Mentioned in the show
Missioteca
The picture of Taylor standing in the middle of the cover crop trial.

Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers - Taylor
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is the instrumental version of “On a Cloud”

 "January's harsh ice storm is at the heart of our conversation, where we recount the collective warmth we found in the chill, mirroring the camaraderie of past lockdown days. Our homes became fortresses against the cold, as we sealed drafts and prepared for the freeze, finding solace and fun in the most unexpected ways. And the garden, oh the garden! It's a tale of resilience and survival, with frost cloths and straw playing the hero, safeguarding our greens from the icy grip of winter.

Our latest banter journeys through the life of seeds from years past, still sprouting with vigor, and tips for nurturing cabbage that could rival a small boulder. It's a deep-rooted discussion on soil stewardship, contrasting time-honored feeding techniques with the vibrant soil food web philosophy. Join us as we unwrap these gardening mysteries, leaving you with actionable insights and the excitement to watch your own garden thrive through the seasons."

Thanks again Jenkins, for the solid description!

Discussed in the show:
Our best friends sledding VS our kids "sledding"
Elegance Mix from Johnny's


If you haven't already, go SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter, The Common, where we go in depth on what we talk about here and more.  Check it out here!

Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter (X) - @_ACommonLife
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers - Taylor
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the Socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is the instrumental version of “On a Cloud”

"Join our cozy conversation as we eagerly await the onset of spring in the heart of Alabama. We're stirring up the quiet of February with talks of garden preparations, tempting your palate with a step-by-step guide to crafting candied orange peels—a sweet herald of brighter days to come. As we tiptoe away from winter's hearty fare, we'll share with you the joys and challenges of the season's transition, both in the garden and in our kitchens.

Our episode brims with the anticipation of seed starting and the invaluable steps of hardening off your tender sprouts, ensuring they thrive once they hit the open soil. Tune in for a treasure trove of tips from our newsletter and a sneak peek at the resources budding on our website. We'll delve into compost enrichment, the importance of pruners' and loppers' sharpness, and the art of perfecting your family's breakfast with a twist on cream of wheat. Whether you're a green thumb or a culinary enthusiast, our conversation is a promise of inspiration for the February gardener and beyond."

Special thanks to Jenkins, our AI Assistant, for the hearty pod description!

Discussed in the show:
Candied Orange Peel
acommonlife.substack.com
Hula Hoe / Stirrup Hoe
Homemade Cream of Wheat


Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter (X) - @_ACommonLife
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers - Taylor
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the Socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is the instrumental version of “On a Cloud”

In this episode, I break down why a home gardener should try growing their own transplants from seed and share how we do it ourselves!

If you listen and have questions, feel free to email me at [email protected] . You can also find my write up on this topic on Substack here. Leave a comment if you'd like!

Mentioned in the show:
Soil Blocks
Seed Flats
Seed Trays
Peat Moss - I use ProMix BX
Compost
Blood Meal
Bone Meal
Mycorrhizae - I use Great White
Rock Dust / Azomite
Flourescent Lights - Bright / Warm
Shop Light Fixture
Neptune Harvest’s Fish emulsion
Our newsletter that talks about planting tomatoes
Lacinato (or Toscano) Kale

Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter (X) - @_ACommonLife
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers - Taylor
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the Socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is the instrumental version of “On a Cloud”

"Ever wondered how a sprig of parsley can elevate not just your cooking but your entire day? Well, pour yourself a cup of tea and join Morgan and Taylor as they meander through tales of culinary experiments with garden-fresh ingredients, like the unexpected delight of a mid-winter tabouli. They also peel back the curtain on their couple's podcasting journey, sharing those unscripted moments of laughter (and learning) that come from microphone blunders. And if your breakfast routine needs a little inspiration, Taylor's got a secret omelet recipe that'll transform your morning fare into a gourmet delight.

This episode is a tapestry of sounds and stories, woven with threads of musical nostalgia and refreshing conversations. Savor the classic tunes of Fleetwood Mac and the soothing calm of JJ Heller's sleep album, as they traverse the landscape of their cherished albums. Switching gears, they dive into the pages of Elon Musk's biography, drawing parallels between his life and our own adventures in thought and innovation. And as they put on their farmer hats, they explore the practical wisdom nestled within the pages of Farming Magazine and the humorous yet insightful musings of authors like Feynman and Logsdon, equipping them with not only laughter but actionable advice for managing their little slice of the pastoral world." 

Thanks "Jenkins" (Our AI Assistant). A little wordy, but I'll let it stand.
Morgan and I really hope you all enjoy this episode!

Mentioned in the Pod:
Fleetwood Mac

James Taylor

Ben Rector

Elon Musk - Walter Isaacson

JJ Heller

Santana

Naval Ravikant

Farming Magazine

Surely you’re joking, Mr. Feynman! - Richard Feynman

Holy Shi* - Gene Logsdon 35 min mark

Sacred Seasons: A Family Guide to Center Your Year Around Jesus - Kirsty Gallagher

Downtown Books, Dothan Alabama

Occupy Our Calenders - Walter Brueggemann

Wild Words - Nicole Gulotta

Wintering - Katherine May

Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter (X) - @_ACommonLife
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers - Taylor
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the Socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is th

"As the frost settles on our final harvest, we gather 'round the mic to share the warm tales and frosty fails of our December days. From the heartwarming arrival of Ethel, the newest four-legged love in our lives, to the half-illuminated Christmas tree that sparked a fiery new tradition, we wrap up the year with laughter and the scent of pine lingering in the air. There's a race to tell, too—the Rudolph Run—where our family's competitive spirit blazes even brighter than our oddly decorated tree. And nestled in this month's memories is an engaging conversation with Terry, whose insights on the bucolic bliss of tending a milk cow have churned up our enthusiasm for the creamy possibilities ahead.

Yet, life on the farm isn't all fresh milk and frolics; it's also about learning from the thorny side of things. Reflecting on the digital downfalls that have kept our virtual fields from flourishing, we're determined to plant the seeds of a brighter social media future. We share the mishaps that had us in stitches, like the great milkshake disaster and our unique twist on the tooth fairy legend, all while embracing the charming chaos of holiday traditions. And as we tend to our garden of wisdom, we discuss the importance of proper grafting—thanks to a mulberry mix-up—and the resilience of herbs against winter's chill, proving there's always a fresh sprig of knowledge to spice up your life and your plate."

Another doozy description by AI. I feel like our AI assistant needs a name. Anyways - Show notes and where to find us is below!

Find us Elsewhere:
Instagram - @_ACommonLife - Morgan
Community Newsletter - The Common
Twitter (X) - @_ACommonLife
Twitter - @Taylor__Myers - Taylor
LinkedIn - Taylor Myers

DM us on the Socials or email us at [email protected]

Music on the podcast was composed by Kevin Dailey. The artist is Garden Friend. The track is the instrumental version of “On a Cloud”

Mentioned in this episode:
Hidden Springs Nursery
Farming Magazine
The Sipsey Wilderness
"The Big Tree"