Episode 26

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Published on:

27th Feb 2025

First Generation Farming, Goat Grazers and Teenagers with Paul and Miriam

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In this engaging conversation, Paul and Miriam Skrade share their journey of growing college students and livestock on their farm in Iowa. They discuss their roles as educators, the challenges and joys of raising Kiko goats and chickens, and their commitment to conservation and habitat management. The couple reflects on their wildlife encounters, the importance of creating habitats for wildlife, and their transition into farming life. They also touch on the challenges of finding reliable farm help and the desire of college students to engage in agricultural work. This conversation explores the multifaceted challenges and experiences of parenting, mentorship, and farming. The speakers discuss the importance of cultivating young talent in agriculture, the role of mentorship in building relationships, and the practical applications of research in farming. They share personal stories about navigating parenthood while pursuing graduate studies, the challenges of early parenthood, and the significance of finding support and funding as both parents and farmers. The discussion also touches on environmental stewardship, the role of doulas in childbirth, postpartum support, and the transition to farm life with children. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of teaching responsibility to children through farming, the connection between kids and nature, and the different parenting styles that influence children's interests. They explore the challenges of encouraging outdoor activities and the role of community in parenting. The conversation also touches on birdwatching as a family activity, the fun of county fairs, and the challenges of rural life.

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Takeaways

  • Paul and Miriam are dedicated to growing college students and livestock.
  • They raise Kiko goats for targeted grazing and habitat management.
  • The couple emphasizes the importance of experiential learning for students.
  • Wildlife encounters on their farm include a variety of bird species.
  • Creating habitats is crucial for wildlife conservation.
  • They transitioned to farming life while managing family responsibilities.
  • The couple has a strong connection to their local community and college.
  • Finding reliable farm help is a challenge, but college students are eager to work.
  • Their farm is a space for education and community engagement.
  • Miriam supports Paul's farming dream while cultivating her own interests. Creating opportunities for students is essential for the future of agriculture.
  • Building trust and communication is key in mentorship relationships.
  • Research can have practical applications in farming and environmental management.
  • Navigating parenthood while pursuing education is challenging but rewarding.
  • Finding support and funding is crucial for new parents and farmers.
  • Conservation efforts are vital for environmental stewardship.
  • Doulas provide essential support during childbirth and postpartum.
  • Postpartum mental health is often overlooked but critical for new parents.
  • Transitioning to farm life can be difficult for children but can be managed with support.
  • Pets can help maintain connections with children away at college. Teaching kids responsibility through farming is essential.
  • Asking for help is crucial in parenting.
  • Encouraging kids to connect with nature fosters growth.
  • Parenting styles can greatly influence children's interests.
  • Community plays a vital role in raising children.
  • Birdwatching can be a fun family activity.
  • Outdoor activities promote health and well-being.
  • County fairs can be a source of fun and competition.
  • Sharing responsibilities can strengthen family bonds.
  • Finding joy in parenting comes from shared experiences.
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About the Podcast

Barnyard Language
Real talk about running farms and raising families.
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!

No sales, no religious conversion, no drama. Just honest talk from two mamas who know what it's like when everyone is telling you to just get all your meals delivered and do all your shopping online, but your internet is too slow and you've got cows to feed.

About your host

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Caithlin Palmer