This episode is brought to you by our partners, Blooming Health Farms and ChopLocal University

In this engaging conversation, Christina Struckmeyer shares her journey of transitioning from city life to farming in Northern California. She discusses the challenges and joys of managing a family farm, the dynamics of rural community life, and the importance of maintaining one's identity amidst the close-knit relationships that come with farm life. Christina also reflects on her experiences as a mother and podcaster, emphasizing the need for personal space and friendships outside of her role as a farm wife. In this conversation, Christina Struckmeyer and Caite Palmer explore the complexities of friendship, the impact of politics on personal relationships, the inspiration behind their podcast, the challenges and allure of multi-level marketing (MLM), and their contrasting experiences of parenting. They discuss the importance of defining friendships, navigating political divides, and the need for open conversations about motherhood and mental health. The dialogue also delves into the pitfalls of MLMs, particularly for women in rural areas, and the unique challenges of parenting in different life circumstances. In this conversation, Christina Struckmeyer shares her experiences navigating family dynamics, particularly in relation to her daughter's autism and the transition to a new family structure. She discusses the joys and challenges of raising children on a farm, emphasizing the importance of emotional regulation and self-care for parents. The conversation also touches on the benefits of blended families and the significance of community support in parenting.

Follow Christina Online & Check Out Her Podcast

• https://www.instagram.com/xtinastruckmeyer/
• https://momversationclub.com/about/

About ChopLocal and ChopLocal University

Meat buyers want convenience and variety, and meat farms need a better way to market their products. That's where ChopLocal comes in.

Founded by farmers, ChopLocal features high quality products from butcher shops and meat farms near you. They are dedicated to building a more resilient supply chain for meat that benefits everyone involved, and we're certain you'll be able to taste the difference!

Want to learn more about selling on ChopLocal as a producer? Visit their website below!

• https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/ (Education For Producers)
• https://choplocal.com/ (Sell or Buy on ChopLocal)

About Blooming Health Farms

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 something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].

Takeaways

• Christina is growing rice and walnuts in Northern California.
• She transitioned into farming as an outsider.
• Rice farming requires a lot of water and faces drought challenges.
• Community dynamics in rural areas can be overwhelming.
• Finding personal identity is crucial in a family farm setting.
• Christina emphasizes the importance of making her own friendships.
• Navigating relationships in a small town requires tact and kindness.
• Maintaining boundaries is essential for personal well-being.
• The adjustment to rural life includes dealing with infrastructure challenges.
• Christina's podcasting journey is a significant part of her identity. Friendship dynamics can be complex and need clear definitions.
• Having supportive friends during tough times is crucial.
• Political beliefs can strain friendships but empathy is key.
• Isolation in motherhood can be alleviated through community.
• Podcasts can provide a sense of connection for isolated parents.
• MLMs often target women seeking flexible income opportunities.
• The allure of MLMs can lead to financial and emotional pitfalls.
• Parenting experiences can vary greatly depending on circumstances.
• Supportive partnerships can make parenting more manageable.
• Farm life offers a unique community and upbringing for children. Every child on the spectrum is different.
• Routine and structure are crucial for children with autism.
• Blended families can create a supportive environment for children.
• Emotional regulation is a common struggle for parents.
• Self-care is essential for effective parenting.
• Farm life provides a unique sense of calm and community.
• Involvement of a supportive partner can enhance family dynamics.
• Children benefit from having multiple loving figures in their lives.
• It's important to teach children about diversity and different life experiences.
• Parenting requires constant adjustment and learning.