Have you ever stopped to wonder if the conveniences of modern life actually serve us well? In a world where we sit more than we stand, where groceries can be delivered to our doorstep, and where lawns are mowed while seated, we’ve become a society that has to remind ourselves to move. This week I talk about desk jobs, Amish pedometers, and those waistlines of the 1950s. I also ask some uncomfortable questions, which I’m not sure we’re completely ready to answer as a society. By the end of this episode, you might question the true cost of convenience and whether the time we’ve “saved” has genui ..read more

In our 15 years of raising chickens, I’ve come to a realization: sometimes the popular rules and advice need to be challenged. You certainly don’t have to agree with my opinions or methods, but I’m here today to share my experiences with you. From the necessity of chick starter and the precision of incubator settings to the debate between kill cones and hatchets, I’m here with an experienced perspective—take it or leave it—on what really matters when it comes to poultry care. Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or just starting out, this episode might ruffle some feathers. But sometimes we n ..read more

Homesteading isn’t always about piling up as much as you can raise, grow, and store. Sometimes it’s about making smart choices that align with your resources and goals. In today’s episode, I share two big reasons why we have decided to skip raising meat birds this year. As we aim for a more self-sufficient, closed-loop system on our farm, we’re also keeping it real about the cost-effectiveness of raising meat versus buying it. Let’s touch on an often unspoken truth in the homesteading community: not having every option doesn’t mean you’re going to starve. It’s about making the most of what you ..read more

Have you ever wondered if you’re truly ready for a crisis? Today I dig into the five most common – and wildly inaccurate – survival strategies that people believe will save them if “society collapses.” From the illusion of bountiful hunting to the fantasy of last-minute gardening to the overly optimistic “I’ll just crash at my prepper friend’s house,” there are many SHTF survival plans that aren’t likely to play out like some folks hope they will. Let’s make sure your strategy is more than just wishful thinking. And let’s talk about how to help people who are taking wild stabs in the dark when ..read more

In a world where instant gratification seems to be the norm, and the how-to’s for just about anything are a mere click away, we often forget the most crucial ingredient in achieving our dreams: time. Have you ever caught yourself saying “I want that life” while scrolling through picturesque images of homesteads on social media? Well, here’s a reality check. Homesteading isn’t just rustic barns and homegrown vegetables; it’s about time, effort, and patience. After 13 years on our homestead, I’m here to tell you that the life you desire is a result of consistent, heart-driven decisions made over ..read more

If I may be so bold, I would consider today’s episode to be a crucial conversation. Today I challenge the typical prepper narrative and offer that creativity, ingenuity, and community are just as important as any other tools for surviving challenging periods. Our ancestors didn’t have access to the endless supplies we do today; they thrived on creativity and the ability to adapt. I think we need a reminder about what it truly means to be resilient, and that perhaps the best tool for surviving tough times can’t be bought or sold. What are the real resources we need to survive? And why aren’t we ..read more

You’ve probably noticed there is a certain frenzy that crops up in election years, accompanied by a sort of fear-mongering that dominates our screens. In today’s episode, I counteract all that with a hefty dose of practicality mixed with a sprinkle of sass. Today is a reminder of the simple, yet crucial steps you can take to prepare for whatever may come, as well as a problem people always forget to talk about when “tough times are coming”. Remember, despite the chaos that may surround you or the “tough times” that might be coming, you’re still kickin’—so you need to keep on livin’. Don’t get ..read more

Ever feel like the world’s craziness is too much to handle? Unsure how to take it all in, what to focus on, or what to care about? In today’s episode, I share three essential questions to help you navigate life’s turmoil. I hope this episode, equal parts sugar and spice, will help you reclaim your headspace and focus on what truly matters in your day… and your life. Lifestead update: (2:50) Main topic: (6:35) Check out my YouTube channel for new long form content being added, starting 2/27/24! — Amy Dingmann, 2-26-24 FIND MORE GOODIES FROM A FARMISH KIND OF LIFE: My newest book!: Spit it ..read more

In a world that seems more connected than ever, why do we often find ourselves struggling to be social? Today I tackle this question head-on, diving into the complexities of human relationships, the ironic blessing/curse of social media, and how it all brings about our modern-day aversion to (or impatience with) real life social interaction. I know, I know. It’s right on the tip of your tongue. You want to say, “The world out there is a horrible place. People are terrible and everyone sucks.” Listen, I won’t shy away from the darker side of human interactions. I acknowledge that sometimes peop ..read more

Are you constantly tweaking and changing your life, sometimes altering what’s already working? In episode 265 of the Farmish Kind of Life podcast, you’re invited to ponder the age-old adage, “if it ain’t broken, don’t fix it,” and consider how it applies to homesteading—and life in general! If you’ve ever second guessed your choices simply because someone else is doing things differently, this episode is for you. It’s also for those who’ve felt the itch to change for the sake of change, or those seeking affirmation that sometimes, the best action is no action at all. Lifestead updates: (1:11 ..read more