Roots and Refuge Podcast

Jessica Sowards

Hey there, darling! My name is Jess. There was a time that all I wanted in the world was a little farm where I could raise my family and grow our food. Now, that's exactly what exists outside my door. In watching it unfold, a new dream was formed in my heart – to share this beautiful life with others and teach them the lessons we've learned along the way. Welcome to the Roots and Refuge podcast, friend. I am so glad you're here. read less

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Living Off The Land

Living Off The Land

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 69 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. Today, I’m tackling the big question: Is it actually possible to live off the land? When I first dreamed of having a farm, the idea of living off the land was incredibly appealing. But reality is much more complex and demanding. The truth is, growing food and sustaining a farm involves an immense amount of work, time, and energy. It’s not to discourage anyone, but to offer a realistic view of what farm life entails. While the romantic idea of homesteading is wonderful, it's important to understand the effort involved. Growing your own food is a life long journey, not a destination. On our farm, we produce a lot of our food. Yet, we still rely on grocery stores for some needs, and while we strive for self-sufficiency, we’re not fully independent. We depend on external sources, like grain for our animals, and we are part of modern supply chains. Our lifestyle involves balancing self-produced food with necessary outside inputs, doing our best to live in harmony with our land rather than entirely off it. The concept of living off the land varies widely. Some people do live off-grid, relying solely on their land, but our approach is more moderate. We aim to close the loop where possible, acknowledging that complete self-sufficiency isn’t realistic for us. Instead, we focus on creating a resilient and sustainable way of life. Community plays a crucial role in modern homesteading. I used to aim for total self-reliance, but I’ve learned the value of community and shared resources. The goal isn't to revert to the past, but to integrate real food and food security into our lives. It’s about doing what we can where we are, striving for resilience over perfection. Healthy living means nurturing our relationships, our food, our land, and ourselves. Our aim isn’t to live entirely off the land, but to build a balanced, modern life where we create more than we consume. Thanks for joining me today. Remember, homesteading is a journey towards resilience and balance. 🌻 If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and Jess (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Épisodes

Living Off The Land

Living Off The Land

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 69 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. Today, I’m tackling the big question: Is it actually possible to live off the land? When I first dreamed of having a farm, the idea of living off the land was incredibly appealing. But reality is much more complex and demanding. The truth is, growing food and sustaining a farm involves an immense amount of work, time, and energy. It’s not to discourage anyone, but to offer a realistic view of what farm life entails. While the romantic idea of homesteading is wonderful, it's important to understand the effort involved. Growing your own food is a life long journey, not a destination. On our farm, we produce a lot of our food. Yet, we still rely on grocery stores for some needs, and while we strive for self-sufficiency, we’re not fully independent. We depend on external sources, like grain for our animals, and we are part of modern supply chains. Our lifestyle involves balancing self-produced food with necessary outside inputs, doing our best to live in harmony with our land rather than entirely off it. The concept of living off the land varies widely. Some people do live off-grid, relying solely on their land, but our approach is more moderate. We aim to close the loop where possible, acknowledging that complete self-sufficiency isn’t realistic for us. Instead, we focus on creating a resilient and sustainable way of life. Community plays a crucial role in modern homesteading. I used to aim for total self-reliance, but I’ve learned the value of community and shared resources. The goal isn't to revert to the past, but to integrate real food and food security into our lives. It’s about doing what we can where we are, striving for resilience over perfection. Healthy living means nurturing our relationships, our food, our land, and ourselves. Our aim isn’t to live entirely off the land, but to build a balanced, modern life where we create more than we consume. Thanks for joining me today. Remember, homesteading is a journey towards resilience and balance. 🌻 If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and Jess (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Turn Your Waiting Room Into A Classroom

Turn Your Waiting Room Into A Classroom

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 68 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. Today, I'm talking about the challenges of waiting for dreams to come true and how we can use these periods of waiting to grow. It’s a topic close to my heart, and I hope it resonates with you. Waiting can feel frustrating, but it's also an opportunity to learn and grow. Instead of seeing waiting as a setback, think of it as a classroom where you can gain valuable lessons. As I often say, "Turn your waiting room into your classroom." Life often places us in "waiting rooms," whether it’s waiting for a new home, a job, or another important dream of yours. It's crucial to make the most of these times. Use this period to refine your dream, develop new skills, and appreciate the journey. As scripture tells us "Whoever can be trusted with very little can be trusted with very much" (Luke 16:10). Reflect on this: How can you turn your waiting room into a classroom? Embrace the time you have now to prepare for the future you want. Waiting is not wasted time; it's a chance to grow and get ready for what's next. "If you are willing to work on yourself in the waiting room of your life, you can't lose!" Thanks for joining me today. Remember, every waiting room is a classroom in disguise. 🌻 If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and Jess (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 67 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. In honor of Father's Day, Miah is taking over for Jess today. I'm joined by my friend Jesse from Willowbrook Homestead, and together, we're diving into the heart of fatherhood. We'll explore the crucial questions: How important is it to be a father? What are we doing as fathers, and why? What lessons matter most, and who do we look to for inspiration? How do we juggle the roles of father, provider, and individual? We emphasize the need to be mindful of how our children experience life and our parenting, acknowledging that memories can differ significantly without that awareness. We'll discuss the balance of effective praise, ensuring we don't over-praise undeservedly or neglect to praise at all. We'll reflect on learning from our parents' successes and failures and the importance of generational evolution. Plus, we'll talk about the value of apologizing to our children when we fall short of our parenting ideals or make mistakes along the way. Our goal as fathers is to limit trauma for future generations and foster a nurturing and loving environment. Join us as we delve into the profound journey of fatherhood and share our insights and experiences. Thanks for tuning in to the Roots and Refuge Podcast. Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads out there! 🌻 If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and Jess (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

The Hard of Homesteading

The Hard of Homesteading

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 66 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. Today, I'm tackling the hard parts of homesteading, inspired by a post I saw in a wonderful Facebook group. It's easy to romanticize, but the reality is that homesteading is incredibly challenging and requires grit, discipline, and sacrifice. Despite the difficulties, it's worth it, and even the hard moments can be beautiful. Homesteading can be isolating and often goes against the mainstream, but the naysayers can fuel your determination. Rural life brings unique challenges, and there's a hefty price on failure, leading to moments of disappointment when expectations don't match reality. However, the satisfaction and gratitude for hard work, the forethought and planning required (mentioned recipe here), and the deeply rewarding nature of this lifestyle make it all worthwhile. Remember, homesteading isn't a one-size-fits-all journey, and life on the farm changes with each season. The challenge and intention behind every task are what make this life beautiful and deeply satisfying. Join me as we explore the hard truths and rewards of homesteading, and let's appreciate the journey together. 🌱 Thanks for listening to the Roots and Refuge Podcast, where we embrace the art of homesteading and mindful living. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Preserving the Harvest

Preserving the Harvest

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 65 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. With the garden season really getting underway now, it's the perfect time to start planning how you'll preserve your harvest. Food preservation is a major task on the homestead, and today I'll share my thoughts on various methods to help you make the most of your produce. Drying/Dehydrating: Ideal for fruits, herbs, and creating seasoning powders. While not suitable for all produce, it's perfect for herbs, jerky, and cherry tomatoes. Freezing: Best for preserving nutrition but comes with drawbacks like texture changes and a reliance on electricity. It's great for meats and convenient for many vegetables. Canning (water bath & pressure): Produces convenient and ready-to-eat products. Canning is a great entry point for a new homesteader. Remember to water bath high-acid foods and pressure can low-acid foods. Curing/Smoking: A valuable, albeit niche skill that offers variety and uniqueness. It requires time and learning but adds great value and diversity to your pantry. Fermenting: Offers health benefits and unique flavors. It does require refrigeration after initial fermentation and may not appeal to everyone. Long Storing: Best for dry goods and things like onions and squash, this method is hands-off and crucial for long-term storage without electricity. Organization is key to keep stock rotated. Freeze Drying: Provides high-quality, long-lasting products but is costly and time-consuming. It's great for novelties, seasoning mixes, and preserving leftovers. These methods together ensure a well-stocked pantry throughout the year, even when the garden isn't producing. I hope this information helps you to dive into each technique and find the best preservation strategies for your homestead. Thanks for joining us on the Roots and Refuge Podcast, where we explore the art of homesteading and mindful living. 🌱 If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Building a Life of Beauty

Building a Life of Beauty

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 64 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. After a refreshing break, I'm feeling creatively recharged and excited to share my renewed passion for homesteading with you. In this episode I delve into the profound impact the authors Alice Waters and Barbara Kingsolver have had on my journey, particularly through their books, "We Are What We Eat" and "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle." We'll discuss the journey of gaining knowledge and everything that goes along with improved competence and confidence. I'll discuss my evolving "why" for homesteading, focusing on food security, skills, and creating a simpler, beautiful life for my family. So please join me as I reflect on finding joy in simplicity, making conscious choices, and aligning daily decisions with core values such as simplicity, frugality, pride, beauty, art, connection, and relationships. Discover how to build a life of beauty by focusing on what truly matters and embracing the small, everyday joys that bring satisfaction and fulfillment. Thanks for joining us on the Roots and Refuge Podcast, where we celebrate intentional living and mindful choices. 🌱 If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Creating a Lifestyle vs. Following a Fad

Creating a Lifestyle vs. Following a Fad

Hey, everyone! Welcome to episode 63 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. In today's episode we're diving into a candid discussion about homesteading being a sustainable lifestyle versus a trendy hobby. We'll explore the concept of mindful consumption across all aspects of life, questioning the true value of investing our energy into every homemade endeavor. We'll also chat about 2 personality types when it comes to facing change. Are you a "frying pan personality" or a "crockpot personality"? Let's dig into the merits of immediate versus gradual change and how to find sustainable habits that align with our values and the reality of our daily lives. Join me as we navigate the pitfalls of comparison and condemnation in the age of social media, and learn how to apply homesteading principles realistically to create lasting changes. Remember, living sustainably isn't accidental — it requires relentless mindfulness of our consumption habits. Tune in to discover how I strive to strike the balance between homemade and convenience, ensuring each choice we make in our home is a mindful one. Thanks for joining me on the Roots and Refuge Podcast, where we're all about fostering intentional living and mindful choices. 🌱 If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

The Forging (Women and Friendship with Kelly Brotherton)

The Forging (Women and Friendship with Kelly Brotherton)

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 62 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. In today's episode I had the pleasure of sitting down to chat with my friend Kelly Brotherton to delve into the profound topic of intentional friendship and womanhood. As we reflect on a meaningful weekend spent with cherished girlfriends, Kelly and I share insights into the importance of intentional relationships, particularly for women. We explore the value of fostering connections with individuals who possess diverse perspectives and thinking patterns, highlighting the role of diversity of thought for personal growth. Join us as we discuss the significance of embracing disagreement and conflict within relationships, grounded in a foundation of love and a shared commitment to growth. Don't miss this insightful conversation that celebrates the transformative power of female friendships and the beauty of forging meaningful connections. If you'd like to see more from Kelly you can find her at the Better Together Homestead: https://www.youtube.com/@BetterTogetherLife Thanks for tuning in to the Roots and Refuge Podcast, where we believe in the strength and solidarity found in community. 🌟 If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

My Best Gardening Advice

My Best Gardening Advice

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 61 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. In today's episode I'm sharing my best gardening advice for both new and experienced gardeners alike. Since spring has sprung where I live, and I know it's just around the corner for you northern folks, I thought this was the perfect time of year to give a highlight reel of the key lessons I've learned as a gardener. Whether you're just starting out or you just need a bit of a reminder after years of gardening, these tips are sure to get you excited about this season's potential. Firs thing I want to explore is the importance of considering the value of your harvest beyond just dollars. What you grow has a huge impact on how long you stick with it! Why are you growing it? What are your plans for using it when it's ready to harvest? I also love talking about how I've 'debunked' the companion planting myth in my own garden. Ultimately, if you're planting diversely you'll probably succeed by creating a balanced ecosystem. But don't stress too much about it, balancing your gardens ecosystem is a years long goal that comes from focusing on good stewardship. Finally we talk all about the crucial role of soil health and the benefits of feeding and covering your soil to create that balanced ecosystem in your soil that fosters robust plant growth. Don't miss out on this episode packed with essential gardening wisdom! And be sure to check out the mentioned blog post on how to make compost tea for even more valuable insights. Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Parenting on the Homestead

Parenting on the Homestead

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 60 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. In today's episode we delve into the unique challenges and joys of raising children in a homesteading environment. Join me as we explore the fundamental principles of parenting that I have chosen to live by in my family. We address the importance of fostering deep, meaningful relationships within the family. From navigating the complexities of blended family dynamics to instilling a culture of intentionality and respect, we uncover the keys to nurturing thriving relationships with our children. Discover how homesteading offers a rich tapestry for cultivating resilience, work ethic, and mutual respect within the family unit. Learn valuable insights on communication, trust, and the power of modeling love and grace in parenting. So, tune in to this insightful episode as we journey through the heart of parenting on the homestead and uncover the transformative power of building strong family bonds. Thanks for joining us on the Roots and Refuge Podcast! Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Granny Skills- A Return to the Old Ways

Granny Skills- A Return to the Old Ways

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 59 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. In today's episode we're delving into the modern resurgence of traditional skills and the invaluable wisdom passed down through generations. Join us as we explore the concept of "Granny Skills", embracing the old ways of doing things that prioritize quality, sustainability, and resourcefulness over convenience and consumerism. From honing our kitchen skills like cooking from scratch and preserving food to mastering the art of making do and caring for our things, we uncover together the richness found in traditional practices. Discover the power of Granny Skills in fostering a mindset of resilience, creativity, and self-reliance. Learn how embracing these time-honored practices not only enriches our lives but also nurtures future generations by passing down essential knowledge and skills. So, I hope you enjoy this episode as we journey back to the wisdom of our elders and rediscover the wealth of Granny Skills in today's modern world. Thanks for joining us on the Roots and Refuge Podcast! Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Mine Your Elders (with JeriLynn)

Mine Your Elders (with JeriLynn)

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 58 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. That's not a typo in the title. That's right, MINE your elders. We will get to that at the end. I invited a local fellow homesteader on the podcast this week. Her name is JeriLynn and she's been growing food as long as I've been alive. I met her through Facebook and attended a local meet-up she was hosting. We had a few great conversations and I felt like she'd be a great person to have share her homesteading wisdom and story. Do you realize the importance of mining your elders? In this episode we delve into the invaluable wisdom of homesteading shared by our special guest, JeriLynn, who has been growing food for as long as many of us can remember. JeriLynn's journey into homesteading began in 1986, and her wealth of experience spans decades, offering unique insights into the challenges and joys of this lifestyle. We explore the benefits of homeschooling, particularly in cultivating independence and critical thinking skills in children. JeriLynn shares how the homesteading life isn't just about hard work; it's about embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, regardless of age or circumstances. Despite common misconceptions, JeriLynn emphasizes that you're never too old to start homesteading. With determination, resourcefulness, and a willingness to learn, anyone can embark on this fulfilling journey, adapting to life's changes along the way. From preparing food for large families to navigating life transitions, JeriLynn offers practical advice on preparedness and the true meaning of wealth. As she wisely puts it, wealth encompasses more than just financial assets—it includes health, relationships, and knowledge, all of which are invaluable on the homesteading path. So, join us as we mine the treasure trove of wisdom from our elders and discover the richness that comes from embracing the homesteading lifestyle. Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

The Hungry Month- A Talk on Homesteading and Resilience

The Hungry Month- A Talk on Homesteading and Resilience

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 57 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. As spring starts to bloom here at Roots and Refuge Farm in South Carolina, I'm reminded of the cyclical nature of the homesteading life, particularly the "hungry months" at the end of winter when pantry stores from last season are low and the new harvest hasn't yet begun. Despite the challenges, I find comfort in the familiarity of the seasons after 10 years on the farm. Homesteading has evolved over the years, from being considered unconventional to becoming more mainstream. However, the recent pandemic significantly highlighted the flaws in our food system and the importance of self-reliance and small farm resilience. As our society prioritizes convenience over quality and locality, there's a growing awakening to the need for local food resources and community support. In the face of uncertainty, homesteading offers a path towards conscious consumption, sustainability, and reverence for the beauty of life. It's about living lightly on the land, seeking sustainability, and embracing the slow living mindset. Through mindful relationship with the earth and each other, we can improve our quality of life and build resilience against fragile systems. Embracing the homesteading life means choosing hard work over ease, embracing inconvenience, and prioritizing creation over consumption. It's about recognizing the value of restriction and finding freedom in mindful consumption. As we navigate the challenges of modern life, I find solace in the resiliency that comes from the homesteading mindset, especially during the hungry months of March. Join me as we explore the transformative power of homesteading and the resilience it cultivates in our lives. Thanks for tuning in to another episode of the Roots and Refuge Podcast! Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Geeking out on Goats with Cass

Geeking out on Goats with Cass

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 56 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. Get ready to geek out about goats with me and my friend Cass from Semojo Homestead in today's exciting episode! We've welcomed goats back to Roots and Refuge Farm, and the excitement is palpable. Together, Cass and I are diving deep into the world of goats to answer a question we often hear: "Are goats for me and my farm?" Cass shares her own journey with goats, which began five years ago when her family decided to add them to their homestead. From the benefits of goats' milk to the secondary advantages of goat ownership, we'll explore why goats might be the perfect addition to your farm or homestead. We'll discuss the importance of the kind of land you have for goats, the unique qualities of goats' milk (including A2A2 milk), and the various products you can make from goat's milk, such as cheese, yogurt, and soap. Choosing the right breed is crucial, and we'll delve into the different personalities and traits of various goat breeds, from Nigerian dwarves to full-size goats. Plus, we'll explore the friendly and affectionate nature of goats, which can make them wonderful companions on the homestead. But it's not all fun and games – we'll also cover practical considerations like hoof trimming, parasite resistance, and the need for a dry lot to prevent parasite issues. Ultimately, having a home dairy with goats can bring a sense of freedom and joy, as you enjoy the superior quality of fresh goat's milk compared to store-bought dairy. So if you've ever wondered if goats are right for you, tune in to learn everything you need to know about adding these charming creatures to your homestead. And be sure to check out Cass's channel, Semojo Homestead, on YouTube for more insights into homesteading and goatkeeping. You can also join their Homesteading from Scratch Facebook Group to learn more about their farm life. Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Life on Purpose- Intention Instead of Overwhelm

Life on Purpose- Intention Instead of Overwhelm

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 55 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. As spring approaches and the farm springs back to life, it can feel like we're climbing that first hill on a roller coaster ride, just waiting for that stomach drop and lurching wild ride that is exciting, but also oh so overwhelming. With this looming threat of overwhelm on the horizon, I'm here to share strategies for navigating life with awareness and purpose. Join me as we explore the importance of setting balanced and reasonable goals, embracing mindfulness as a tool for managing overwhelm, and creating a life that aligns with our deepest values and desires. I'll share insights into my own journey of transitioning from a hectic, overwhelmed lifestyle to one characterized by intention and grace. By making a five-year plan with realistic expectations and intentional goals, we can ensure that we're using our resources wisely and building sustainable habits for the future. We'll discuss the power of dreaming big and planning for projects, spaces, and skills that align with our long-term vision. And we'll explore practical strategies for prioritizing our goals, creating sustainable routines, and letting go of things that no longer serve us. Remember, mindset matters. By taking responsibility for our choices and focusing on what's within our control, we can cultivate a life that's intentional, fulfilling, and full of purpose. So let's embrace life on purpose together, one intentional step at a time. Tune in to discover how you can live a more intentional life and achieve your long-term goals with grace and intention. Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Garden Design with Jeremy from Semojo Homestead

Garden Design with Jeremy from Semojo Homestead

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 54 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. Today, I'm thrilled to have my friend Jeremy from Semojo Homestead joining me to dive into the fascinating world of garden design. With his background in landscape architecture and experience in designing and installing gardens, Jeremy brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to our conversation. Together, we'll explore the importance of creating intentional spaces in your garden and share practical tips for bringing your vision to life. Jeremy and I will discuss everything from setting goals for your space to utilizing the resources you have available to transform your garden into a beautiful and functional oasis. We'll delve into the concept of "rooms" within the garden, discussing how to define entry points, incorporate tall plants for privacy, and create focal points like bean teepees to enhance the overall design. Throughout our discussion, we'll emphasize the importance of thoughtful design choices, considering factors like texture, sound, and aesthetics to create a harmonious and inviting outdoor environment. From ornamental gardens to productive vegetable patches, we'll explore the balance between perennial non-edible landscaping and annual vegetable gardening, offering insights into creating spaces that reflect your unique preferences and lifestyle. And on a deeper note, we'll touch on the significance of fostering relationships with people who may have different perspectives, highlighting the value of diversity and connection in both gardening and life. Be sure to check out Jeremy and Cass's YouTube channel, Semojo Homestead, and their Facebook group, Homesteading from Scratch, for more inspiration and practical tips on homesteading and garden design. Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

Grow Something Lovely

Grow Something Lovely

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 53 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast, and Happy Valentines Day 💗 Today's episode is all about cultivating beauty in your garden and the profound impact it can have on your gardening journey. Join me as we explore the philosophy of growing beautiful things to stay motivated and inspired in your gardening endeavors. We'll discuss the importance of recognizing that there are countless "right" ways to garden, emphasizing the value of learning and growing as a gardener along the way. I'll share more about my personal garden philosophy, which centers around creating an ecosystem and fostering relationships between all living things in the garden, including the soil, plants, and the land itself. We'll delve into the significance of fostering deep, engaged relationships in the garden, moving beyond transactional interactions to truly connect with the natural world around us. During this conversation, we'll reflect on the profound benefits that gardens offer beyond mere food production. From experiencing the therapeutic presence of the garden to the joy of growing something unique and valuable, we'll explore the multifaceted rewards of tending to a garden. I'll also share insights into nurturing healthy soil and my approach to feeding and enriching the soil ecosystem. Plus, we'll discuss the importance of diversity in the garden, mimicking nature to enhance resilience. Ultimately, we'll explore how cultivating beauty and fostering deep relationships in the garden can enrich our lives, offering strength, beauty, and health that extends far beyond the garden gate. Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

On Goats and Homebuilding

On Goats and Homebuilding

Hey, y'all! Welcome to episode 52 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. In this episode, join me for a life catch-up where I share about the importance to me of transparently sharing our story and being truthful about life. I delve into the early days of my relationship with Jeremiah, sharing some of the challenges we had to overcome together. We explore our dreams, past and present. We also discuss how we make decisions as a team. Dive into the conversation about the significance of dreaming wild and big dreams based on the true desires of our hearts. Remember, dreams are not linear, but they are a beautiful and lovely thing. I reflect on appreciating the slow and long process of dreams coming true, emphasizing gratitude and intentionality as the bedrocks of our lives. Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.

The Worst Case Scenerio (A talk about sustainability)

The Worst Case Scenerio (A talk about sustainability)

Hey, y'all! Join me for episode 51 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. Don't let the title fool you; this isn't a scary talk. I love to challenge myself and grow. I'm always looking for ways to make steps towards better. Today, I'm talking about what it actually looks like to grow your own food sustainably. What does it really look like? Can we honestly assess our dependence and think about it practically? In today's podcast, we delve into the resources it can take to become self-sufficient and the importance of being a long-term thinker. We also explore the reality of cultural roadblocks to living a homesteading life and we trace the origins of the sustainability or back-to-the-land movement. Today you'll also gain insight into the historical context of my interest in food growing self-sufficiency and the wisdom of learning from human history. We touch on worst-case scenario thinking, envisioning what a sustainable chicken operation could look like on our farm, and exploring the details of a sustainable beef, dairy, & pork operation. We emphasize responsible stewardship, discuss the concept of community sufficiency vs. self-sufficiency, and share thoughts on sustainable gardening, including improving soil health. Ultimately, we're here today to reflect on symbiotic relationships, doing what we can where we are, and regoznizing that there is good, better, and best in everything we do. You'll also discover my next goal to learn to be more sustainable in our household. Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on our website, rootsandrefuge.com.

The Garden Starts in January

The Garden Starts in January

Hey, y'all! Join me for episode 50 of the Roots and Refuge Podcast. In today's podcast I'm excited to talk about getting back into the garden for 2024. I talk about my strategy of waiting until after the holidays to begin my garden planning, seed shopping, and general dreaming for my favorite season of all. Planning the garden is easily my favorite part of the dreary winter season, so listen along to hear my thought process and to talk about why it's so important to deeply understand WHY you are gardening! In this episode, I also share with you my earliest memories of gardening when I was younger, and the unfortunate sad story of my first attempt at gardening. I am glad to share that I didn't give up after that challenge, and I am still here to share the rest of my gardening journey with you today. Becoming a gardner has had a profound impact on me and my whole life. I hope you'll join me in learning to become a gardner together! Thanks so much for listening. If you’d like to join our Patreon page, you can get early access to all our podcast episodes and monthly live Q&As with Miah and me (including past lives). Visit our Patreon Page to learn more and check out past episodes of the podcast on the website.