Barnyard Language

By Caite Palmer and Arlene HunterSociety & Culture Business Entrepreneurship Parenting Kids & Family

Barnyard Language episodes

December 05, 2024Caite & Arlene's Holiday Gift Guide for Farmers and Farm Kids
In this episode of Barnyard Language, hosts Arlene and Caite discuss their experiences on Black Friday, share updates about their families, and dive into a comprehensive gift guide tailored for farmers and their families. They explore practical, sentimental, and functional gift ideas, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful gifting and the value of experiences over material items. The conversation also includes community suggestions for gifts that cater to the unique needs of farm life. In this episode, Arlene and Caite explore a variety of creative and practical gift ideas for loved ones, emphasizing the importance of emergency preparedness, gardening, and capturing family memories. They discuss unique experiences as gifts, comfort and convenience items, and personalized farm swag. The conversation also touches on educational gifts, imaginative toys, and the significance of supporting small businesses and their podcast.
We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
Takeaways
Shopping doesn't have to be the focus of Black Friday.
Family gatherings can lead to unexpected fun and bonding.
Bath time can be a great opportunity for play.
Practical gifts like tools can be very appreciated.
The gift of time can be more valuable than physical items.
Sentimental gifts create lasting memories.
Functional gifts can improve daily life significantly.
Community suggestions can inspire unique gift ideas.
Craft supplies can be a fun gift for hobbyists.
Thoughtful gifts show you care about the recipient. Offering to help with small projects is a thoughtful gift.
Emergency kits are essential for safety and preparedness.
Gifts like seeds and plants can be meaningful for gardeners.
Capturing family memories through photos is invaluable.
Practical gifts can make everyday life easier.
Unique experiences can create lasting memories.
Comfort items like heated seats are great for outdoor events.
Farm swag can be personalized and meaningful.
Books by past guests provide educational value.
Supporting local businesses is crucial during strikes.

Chapters
00:00 Black Friday Reflections and Family Updates
05:01 Gift Ideas for Farmers and Farm Kids
10:07 Practical Gifts for Everyday Life
15:00 The Gift of Time and Experiences
19:52 Sentimental Gifts and Cherished Memories
25:00 Functional Gifts for Home and Work
29:51 Community Suggestions and Practical Tools
32:46 The Importance of Emergency Preparedness
34:50 Gifts for Gardeners and Plant Lovers
36:07 Capturing Family Memories
37:54 Practical Gifts for Everyday Life
39:57 Unique Experiences as Gifts
41:39 Comfort and Convenience Gifts
42:51 Farm and Outdoor Gifts
44:32 Personalized Farm Swag
46:29 Books and Educational Gifts
47:54 Toys that Inspire Imagination
49:29 Supporting the Podcast
50:59 Cussing and Discussing: Local Observations
52:53 Current Events Impacting Small Businesses
57 min
November 28, 2024Parenting & Life as a Large Animal Vet in Arizona with the Dairy Doc aka Michelle Schack
In this conversation, Michelle Schack, a dairy veterinarian, shares her journey from a non-ag background to becoming a prominent advocate for dairy farming and animal welfare. She discusses the importance of understanding regional farming practices, the challenges of balancing veterinary work with parenting, and the need for respectful communication with consumers about agriculture. Michelle also highlights her initiative, DairyKind, which aims to empower farmers and improve animal welfare training. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the significance of instilling agricultural appreciation in the next generation and the value of diverse roles within the agricultural sector.
Connect with Michelle (aka the Dairy Doc) Below
https://www.tiktok.com/@dairydoc
https://www.instagram.com/dairy.doc/

We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
Takeaways
Michelle is a dairy veterinarian with a passion for animal welfare.
Dairy farming practices vary significantly by region.
It's essential to communicate the realities of farming to consumers.
Observation skills are crucial in veterinary medicine.
Balancing work and parenting can be challenging for veterinarians.
Respectful engagement is key when addressing misconceptions about agriculture.
DairyKind focuses on training and accountability in animal care.
Raising children with an appreciation for agriculture is important.
Veterinary work can be unpredictable, impacting family life.
Societal stereotypes about gender roles in veterinary medicine need to be challenged.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Michelle Schack and Her Journey
02:52 Understanding Dairy Farming Practices
05:54 The Importance of Animal Welfare and Regional Practices
08:52 Michelle's Path to Becoming a Dairy Veterinarian
14:10 The Role of Observation in Veterinary Medicine
17:05 Navigating the Challenges of Agriculture and Parenting
21:13 Communicating with Consumers About Agriculture
26:45 The Importance of Respectful Engagement Online
32:05 DairyKind: Empowering Farmers and Employees
39:59 Raising Kids with an Agricultural Perspective
48:08 Balancing Veterinary Work and Parenting
54:08 Final Thoughts and Parenting Advice
1 hr 26 min
November 21, 2024Limiting Tech Time with Kids on the Farm & Farming in Mississippi with Sarah Varble
In this episode, we are thrilled to host Sarah Varble, an enthusiastic advocate for sustainable and resilient farming practices, hailing from Mississippi. Sarah shares the vibrant operations of her diversified farm, which not only provides a haven for various livestock but also serves as an educational ground for community engagement through a micro school. Her passion for agriculture and innovation is evident as she describes her role at AgLaunch, a company dedicated to aligning technology startups with the practical realities of farming.
Sarah delves into the intricacies of running a farm in Mississippi, where she faces unique challenges and opportunities. From dealing with neighborly cows to managing a diverse livestock assortment, Sarah's hands-on experiences provide rich insights into modern farming. Her work at AgLaunch epitomizes the blend of agriculture with technological advancement by involving farmers in the early stages of ag-tech development. Furthermore, Sarah emphasizes the criticality of farmer-led initiatives and community learning to make farming practices sustainable and resilient amidst changing climate conditions.
Follow Sarah Online Below
https://www.instagram.com/gnarledoakfarm/
https://www.gnarledoakfarm.com/

We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
1 hr 24 min
November 14, 2024Dairy Farming & Parenting in New York State with Dairy Gal Val
A huge thanks to Blooming Health Farms for sponsoring this episode. Make sure to check out their programs for introducing youth to agriculture below.
https://www.bloominghealthfarms.com/
https://www.facebook.com/BloomingHealthFarms/
https://www.instagram.com/bloominghealthfarms
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmaoyl_blQY6KhO5eGByCDg

In this engaging conversation, Val Lavigne shares her multifaceted life as a dairy farmer, mother, and podcaster. She discusses the challenges and joys of raising her children on a dairy farm, the transition to homeschooling, and her passion for educating others about dairy farming. Val also highlights the importance of fostering independence in her kids while ensuring their safety on the farm. The discussion touches on the realities of balancing work and family life, the significance of community, and the rewarding experiences that come with rural living.
Connect with Val Online
https://thedairygalval.com/
https://www.instagram.com/DairyGalVal
https://open.spotify.com/show/0hy0wgwWcGyNax7s41DAtb?si=8331dcc6c0f44b76&nd=1&dlsi=17f55ec47e984fde

We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
Takeaways
Val is a first-generation dairy farmer with a passion for education.
She has transitioned to homeschooling her three children due to challenges in traditional schooling.
Val emphasizes the importance of safety and independence for her kids on the farm.
Her podcast, The Dairy Hour, focuses on sharing stories from rural women.
Val's family runs a food truck and catering business alongside their dairy farm.
She believes in fostering curiosity and passion in her children without forcing them into farming.
Val's experience with dairy farming has shaped her understanding of hard work and resilience.
She values the support of her family and community in her farming and parenting journey.
Val's approach to parenting includes allowing her children to learn through experience.
She encourages her kids to be involved in farm life while also pursuing their own interests.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Val Lavigne and Her Farm Life
03:34 Dairy Farming Insights and Challenges
11:58 Transitioning to Homeschooling
25:04 The Dairy Hour Podcast and Its Purpose
36:31 Parenting on the Farm: Balancing Work and Family
54:04 Fostering Independence and Safety in Kids
01:00:11 Cussing and Discussing: Parenting Challenges
1 hr 30 min
November 07, 2024Suburban Living with a Farming Spin: All Things Barns & Family with Nate the Georgia Barn Guy
In this engaging conversation, Nate shares his journey from growing up on a family farm in Oklahoma to exploring the barns of Georgia. He discusses the importance of agricultural history, the unique architecture of barns in the South, and how he integrates farming values into his suburban family life. The conversation also touches on the significance of preserving family stories and the challenges of parenting in today's fast-paced world. Nate's passion for barns and community shines through as he emphasizes the connections formed through shared experiences and storytelling.
Follow Nate on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/barnsofgeorgia/
We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
Takeaways
Nate has a strong connection to his agricultural roots.
Barns serve as a focal point of farm life and history.
The architecture of barns varies significantly by region.
Nate's Instagram account, 'Barns of Georgia,' aims to document and celebrate local barns.
Connecting with barn owners often leads to rich stories and history.
Parenting involves embracing the seasons of life and being intentional.
Preserving family history is crucial for future generations.
Nate believes in the importance of storytelling in agriculture.
The unique barns of Georgia reflect the culture and history of the area.
Nate's experiences highlight the joys and challenges of rural life.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Growth
02:46 Nate's Agricultural Background and Family History
06:00 The Unique Barns of Georgia
08:50 The Inspiration Behind 'Barns of Georgia'
12:06 Documenting Barns: A Personal Journey
14:57 Connecting with Barn Owners and Their Stories
17:59 The Intersection of Barns and Other Interests
21:10 Parenting and Raising Kids with Farm Values
24:01 Preserving Family History and Farm Stories
27:05 The Importance of Seasons in Parenting
29:59 The Architecture of Georgia Barns
32:48 The Stories Behind Barns and Their Owners
35:53 Cultural Significance of Barns
39:11 Final Thoughts and Reflections
1 hr 11 min
October 31, 2024How to Cultivate Personal and Professional Growth as a Mother & Farmer with Kacee Bohle
In this conversation, Kacee Bohle shares her journey from growing up on a fourth-generation farm in Indiana to becoming a coach, speaker, and trainer in the agriculture industry. She discusses the importance of personal and professional development, the challenges of work-life balance, and the need for mental health awareness in farming. Kacee emphasizes the significance of investing in oneself and reprogramming mindsets to achieve success and fulfillment in both personal and professional realms. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of overwhelm and burnout, particularly in the context of farming and parenting. They discuss the importance of creativity and problem-solving, the need for mental health support, and the significance of asking for help. The conversation also explores the themes of legacy and purpose in farming, the role of coaching in personal growth, and the impact of parenting on life changes. Ultimately, they emphasize the necessity of open conversations about feelings and expectations across generations. In this conversation, Kacee Bohle shares her insights on the complexities of legacy in farming, the challenges of childcare in rural areas, and the integration of agriculture into parenting. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to explore and learn through their own experiences while balancing personal interests and family responsibilities. The discussion also touches on the emotional struggles of parenting, including the pervasive mom guilt, and the joy found in simple moments.
We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
Takeaways
Kacee Bohle is a coach, speaker, and trainer in agriculture.
She emphasizes the importance of personal development in farming.
Work-life balance is often misunderstood and unrealistic.
Investing in mental health is crucial for farmers.
Generational perspectives can impact how farmers view personal growth.
Burnout is a significant issue in the agriculture industry.
Finding balance requires setting clear priorities and boundaries.
Mindset plays a critical role in achieving success.
Coaching can help individuals navigate their unique challenges.
It's essential to redefine what success means on a personal level. Burnout can hinder creativity and problem-solving.
It's essential to give ourselves permission to take breaks.
Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Legacy should be a conversation, not an obligation.
Coaching can provide tailored support for personal growth.
Parenting brings unexpected challenges and changes.
Open discussions about feelings can bridge generational gaps.
It's okay to redefine what farming means to you.
Mental health support is crucial in high-pressure environments.
Flexibility in work-life balance is key to avoiding burnout. It's not worth killing yourself over, literally or figuratively.
We have this worship of intergenerational transfer that doesn't have to be the only way.
You can still build a legacy, but it doesn't necessarily have to go to blood.
Putting the house on a pedestal can harm children's wellbeing.
You can love something and not take it over; that's okay.
Childcare options in rural areas can be extremely limited.
Integrating agriculture into homeschooling provides valuable life lessons.
Letting children struggle helps them become tougher and more independent.
Mom guilt affects every parent, and it's important to find personal time.
Finding joy in simple moments is essential for a fulfilling life.

Chapters
00:00 Growing and Nurturing: A Personal Journey
02:52 From Farm to Coaching: A Career Transition
05:49 The Importance of Personal Development in Agriculture
09:01 Work-Life Balance: Redefining Expectations
11:57 Navigating Generational Perspectives in Farming
15:07 Investing in Mental Health and Wellbeing
18:03 The Reality of Burnout in Agriculture
21:00 Finding Balance in a Busy Life
24:13 Reprogramming Mindsets for Success
27:04 The Myth of Work-Life Balance
29:54 Creating a Sustainable Approach to Life and Work
36:17 Navigating Overwhelm and Burnout
38:57 The Importance of Asking for Help
41:30 Legacy and Purpose in Farming
45:45 Coaching and Personal Growth
50:02 Parenting and Life Changes
01:04:04 Conversations About Legacy
01:07:14 The Burden of Legacy and Dreams
01:11:00 Navigating Childcare Challenges in Rural Areas
01:18:44 Integrating Agriculture into Parenting
01:22:22 Embracing Parenting Struggles and Personal Time
01:24:04 Finding Joy in the Simple Things
1 hr 42 min
October 24, 2024Getting to Know Your Barnyard Language Hosts, Caite & Arlene
Summary
In this episode of Barnyard Language, hosts Arlene and Caite are interviewed by Krysta Paffrath, their editor and CEO of the Rural Podcast Network. They discuss their backgrounds in agriculture, the challenges of parenting in rural areas, and the importance of community and connection through podcasting. The conversation highlights the similarities in experiences among agricultural families, the impact of mental health discussions, and the joy of sharing stories. The episode emphasizes the authenticity of their podcasting journey and the friendships formed along the way. In this episode, the hosts reflect on their experiences with parenting, the challenges they face, and the joys of raising children in a rural environment. They discuss the importance of vulnerability, the impact of personal tragedies, and the growth they have witnessed in their children. The conversation also touches on societal expectations and the pressures of parenting, emphasizing the need for community support and understanding. The hosts share their thoughts on navigating technology in their children's lives and the balance between work and family life on a farm.
We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
Takeaways
Krysta has been editing the podcast for almost a year.
Arlene is raising four kids on a dairy farm.
Caite's family raises Normandy beef cattle.
The Rural Podcast Network supports rural podcasters.
Podcasting creates a sense of community for rural families.
Mental health discussions are crucial in agriculture.
Listeners appreciate the authenticity of the podcast.
Accidents on farms can have lasting impacts.
The hosts aim to normalize vulnerability in parenting.
Everyone has a unique story worth sharing. Tragedy can lead to unexpected positive outcomes.
Vulnerability in sharing personal stories can help others.
Parenting evolves as children grow and face new challenges.
Balancing technology use is crucial in modern parenting.
Community support is essential for raising children.
Raising kids on a farm offers unique experiences and freedoms.
It's important to allow children to learn from their mistakes.
Societal expectations can create pressure and burnout for parents.
Encouraging children to be themselves is vital for their development.
Finding joy in the little moments of parenting is key.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Barnyard Language and Krista
07:10 Growing Up on the Farm: Arlene's Story
14:11 Katie's Agricultural Journey
28:05 The Birth of a Podcasting Friendship
39:50 Insights from Four Seasons of Podcasting
53:37 Finding Positives in Tragedy
55:24 The Impact of Vulnerability
58:54 Parenting Through Change
01:07:26 Navigating Parenting Challenges
01:21:06 The Joys of Raising Kids on a Farm
01:39:53 Cussing and Discussing Life's Expectations
1 hr 36 min
October 17, 2024Goats, Cheese, and Parenting on the Farm: A Chat with Katie Bonow
Katie Bonow, a goat farmer and cheese maker from Minnesota, discusses her farming practices and the challenges of marketing her products. She shares her experience of growing up on a dairy farm and how she got started with goats. Katie explains the seasonal nature of goat farming and the process of cheese making. She also talks about the different aspects of her business, including milking goats, making cheese, and selling her products. Katie discusses the importance of sampling and educating consumers about good goat cheese. She also shares her strategies for increasing sales and marketing her meat goats. Katie Bonow shares her experience of raising kids on a farm and balancing farm life with parenting. She discusses the challenges of marrying someone who is not a goat person and maintaining marital harmony. Katie also talks about the different breeds of goats and their personalities, as well as the importance of good fencing. She shares her strategies for managing farm and family life, including compartmentalizing tasks and taking care of oneself. Katie emphasizes the unique experiences and perspectives that farm kids have and the joy of watching her children grow up on the farm.
Follow Katie on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/capra_nera_creamery/
We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
Takeaways
Goat farming is a seasonal practice, with goats kidding in March and April and cheese making starting in June.
Sampling is crucial for educating consumers about good goat cheese and overcoming misconceptions.
Marketing and sales are important aspects of running a successful farming business.
Building relationships with customers and clear communication are key to effective marketing.
Selling meat goats is a new and challenging market, with direct-to-consumer sales and partnerships with chefs being effective strategies. Maintaining marital harmony in a mixed relationship requires understanding and compromise.
Good fencing is essential for managing goats on a farm.
Compartmentalizing tasks and focusing on specific seasons can help manage farm and family life.
Taking care of oneself is crucial for balancing farm and family responsibilities.
Raising kids on a farm provides unique experiences and perspectives.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Farming Background
01:10 Scale and Seasonality of Goat Farming
02:14 Cheese Making Process and Schedule
04:22 Dairy Farming and Milk Consumption
06:12 Midwest Dairy Culture and Goat Cheese
07:32 Getting Started with Goats and Challenges
09:37 Early Cheese Making and Milk Usage
11:10 Path to Becoming a Farmer and Cheese Maker
12:37 Developing Skills in Farming and Cheese Making
14:48 Woofing and Learning from Other Farmers
17:50 Sales and Marketing Challenges
20:41 Increasing Sales and Marketing Strategies
22:38 Marketing Meat Goats and Overcoming Challenges
25:12 Balancing Farm Life and Marital Harmony
26:54 The Challenges and Personalities of Goats
31:36 Strategies for Managing Farm and Family Life
43:55 The Unique Experiences of Farm Kids
1 hr 16 min
October 10, 2024What Life on the Farm Looks After a Life-Altering Accident with Mike Nixon
Mike Nixon, a farmer from England, shares his experience of farming, his life-changing accident, and his journey to adapt to his new circumstances. He talks about the types of livestock he raises, including sheep and chickens, and how he sells eggs from his free-range chickens. Mike also discusses his background in farming and the accident that left him wheelchair-bound. He shares his memories of the accident and the challenges he faced during his hospitalization and rehabilitation. Mike talks about the changes in his life since the accident, including spending more time with his family and his involvement in the gym. He also addresses the accessibility challenges faced by people with disabilities in rural areas. In this conversation, Michael discusses his experience as a farmer with a spinal cord injury and how it has impacted his daily life and parenting. He talks about the challenges of using a wheelchair on the farm and keeping it clean. Michael shares his journey as a parent and how his relationship with his son has evolved. He also discusses the importance of spending quality time together and teaching his son about farming. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the joys and challenges of parenting on a farm and the importance of supporting spinal cord injury research charities.
Connect with Mike on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikewheelchairfarming/
We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
Takeaways
Mike Nixon is a farmer from England who raises sheep and chickens on his three-acre property.
He had a life-changing accident that left him wheelchair-bound, but he has adapted to his new circumstances and continues to be involved in farming.
Mike emphasizes the importance of physical and mental health, which led him to open a gym that is accessible to wheelchair users.
He also discusses the challenges of accessibility in rural areas and the need for equipment and adaptations to make farming and other activities more inclusive. Using a wheelchair on a farm can be challenging, but with adaptations and support, it is possible to continue farming.
Spending quality time with children and teaching them about farming can create a strong bond and valuable life skills.
Parenting on a farm has unique challenges and rewards, and it is important to find a balance between work and family.
Supporting spinal cord injury research charities can make a difference in improving the lives of those with spinal cord injuries.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Farming
03:33 Life-Changing Accident
06:31 Hospitalization and Rehabilitation
10:25 Adapting to Life After the Accident
17:23 Addressing Accessibility Challenges
28:01 Opening an Accessible Gym
33:42 Farming with a Spinal Cord Injury
35:30 Parenting on the Farm
40:08 Adapting to a New Outlook on Life
47:13 Farm-Specific Parenting Advice
53:08 Supporting Spinal Cord Injury Research
1 hr 3 min
October 03, 2024Farming, Parenting and Building Community with Author & Illustrator, Katie Kulla
Katie Kulla, a farmer and author, shares her experiences of balancing farming life with raising a family. She discusses the size of her farm, her transition from a large CSA to a smaller operation, and the challenges and rewards of farming. Katie also talks about her book, 'Farm Raised Kids,' which explores parenting strategies for farm families. The book features diverse voices and provides a realistic and authentic perspective on the joys and struggles of raising children on a farm. The conversation explores the challenges and joys of raising children on a farm. It discusses the misconception that newborns require the most support, when in reality, older children often need more assistance. The conversation also delves into the importance of finding balance and setting realistic expectations for both farm work and homeschooling. It emphasizes the need to assess children's capabilities and interests when assigning chores and responsibilities. Building a supportive community and allowing children the freedom to explore and play on the farm are highlighted as key aspects of raising kids in this environment. In this final part of the conversation, Katie discusses the empowerment and real-world skills her children gain from being involved in farm work. She also reflects on the challenges of parenting, particularly the process of letting go as her children become more independent. Katie shares her journey as an illustrator and author, highlighting her passion for drawing vegetables and her book 'Edible'. The hosts discuss the joys and challenges of parenting and share their own experiences. They also discuss the difficulties of moving furniture and the impact of wildfires on farming communities.
Connect with Katie Online
https://www.katiekulla.com/
https://www.instagram.com/katiekulla

We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.
If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].
Takeaways
Farming and parenting both have their challenges, but the work gets easier as kids get older and can contribute to the farm.
The level of support a family has, whether from extended family or government programs, can greatly impact the stress of balancing farming and parenting.
Farming allows for unique experiences and connections with children, such as shared meals and a deep understanding of the work involved.
There is no one right way to balance farming and parenting, and it's important to find what works best for each individual family. Newborns may not require as much support as older children who are more active and have changing needs.
Finding balance between farm work and parenting is crucial, and it may require making adjustments and seeking support.
Assessing children's capabilities and interests when assigning chores and responsibilities can help set them up for success.
Building a supportive community and allowing children the freedom to explore and play on the farm are important for their development and enjoyment of farm life. Involving children in real-world work, such as farm chores, can empower them and teach them valuable skills.
Parenting involves the process of letting go and allowing children to become more independent.
Katie's passion for illustration led her to create vegetable guides and work on a book about edible plants.
Moving furniture can be challenging and stressful, but using creative solutions can help overcome obstacles.
Wildfires can have a significant impact on farming communities, affecting air quality and adding to the challenges of farm work.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Farming Background
10:02 Katie's Book: 'Farm Raised Kids'
27:41 Common Themes in Farming and Parenting
31:19 The Misconception of Newborn Support
39:11 Finding Balance in Farming and Parenting
46:28 Assigning Chores and Responsibilities
56:46 Building a Supportive Community on the Farm
01:03:13 Empowering Children and Real-World Work
01:05:01 The Process of Letting Go as a Parent
01:06:54 From Farm Work to Illustration: Katie's Journey
01:08:15 The Challenges of Moving Furniture
01:22:19 The Impact of Wildfires on Farming Communities
1 hr 37 min

About Barnyard Language

From the publisher's feed

Real talk about running farms and raising families. Whether your farm is a raised bed in your backyard or 10,000 acres and whether your family is in the planning stages or you've got 12 kids, we're glad you found us!