Barnyard Language

Arlene and Caite recap post-Easter farm life—wrapping an easy lambing season, prepping for fieldwork, and navigating spring weather, a sump pump issue, and water system quirks. They share family updates, including a new driver and college acceptance, then welcome Annaliese and Court from the “Ag's Most Okayest Farm Girls” podcast. Together, they chat about rural life across Wisconsin and Iowa/Canada, building friendships (online and off), parenting through social dynamics, small-town culture, and a few lighthearted rants—ending with county fair goals and where to connect online.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].

This week, Caite and Arlene interview Neil Dahlstrom from the Quad Cities, an archivist at John Deere who manages historical records, collections, antique equipment, and corporate art; he says he cannot collect John Deere items personally due to ethics rules. Dahlstrom, who lacks a farming background, describes his path into archives and his interest in research and historical mysteries, while also “growing” his nearly 16-year-old son and new writing projects. He discusses his books: a Civil War press-freedom story (“Lincoln’s Wrath”), a biography of John and Charles Deere (“The John Deere Story”), and “Tractor Wars” (1908–1928) on tractor origins and the roles of Ford, International Harvester, and Deere, including forgotten brands, fraud prompting standards like the Nebraska Test Lab, long adoption curves, and implement changes. He explains how “Tractor Wars” became an Iowa PBS documentary, and reflects on why history matters. Don’t miss it!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].

In this engaging conversation, Suzy Brandt shares her experiences as a dairy farmer and mother, discussing the challenges and joys of balancing family life with agricultural responsibilities. The discussion delves into the importance of crop insurance, the impact of climate change on farming, and the vital role of community support in rural living. Suzy also reflects on her personal growth, parenting challenges, and the significance of communication and accountability in raising children. The conversation highlights the realities of modern farming and the interconnectedness of family, work, and community.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].

Jared shares how he’s leading regenerative change on his multi-generation farm by earning buy-in from family and a 40-person team through coaching, small trials, and measurable results rather than mandates. He highlights successes with diverse cover crops, lessons from composting paper biosolids to fix nitrogen tie-up, and the challenges of financing and scaling his egg operation without quota on the balance sheet. Managing multiple enterprises, he relies on systems, KPIs, SOPs, internal training videos, and automation to keep the business running efficiently. He also discusses hiring through a four-step coaching method, building confidence despite criticism, learning through books and podcasts, and integrating his teenagers into farm life while prioritizing presence and stewardship.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].

In this interview, Brittney Miller, a second-generation quail farmer from South Carolina, shares the story of her family’s 55-year-old business, Manchester Farms. She reflects on how the farm began as her father’s hobby and grew into a nationally recognized operation producing quail meat and eggs. Brittney explains what sets quail farming apart, from faster maturation to specialized housing and technology-driven care that supports bird health and quality production. She also discusses the realities of running a family business, balancing farm life with motherhood, and the growing interest in quail products for health, culinary, and pet nutrition uses.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].

Friends, this isn't your typical episode. Today, Caite and Arlene discuss the current state of the United States, characterized by a slide into fascism and systemic human rights abuses. Katie reflects on the stark contrast between her upbringing steeped in American exceptionalism and the troubling reality of modern America. They highlight the importance of addressing issues beyond politics, such as human rights and family values, while recognizing the challenges faced by those living under oppressive conditions. They emphasize the need for individual and community action, even in small ways, to stand against the injustices they see in their country.If you're in the thick of it too, we see you and know we are holding space for you here. 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].

In this episode of Barnyard Language, Caite and Arlene discuss various personal and global topics before introducing their guest, Dr. Kate Lund. Dr. Lund is a psychologist and author specializing in resilience. She talks about the importance of managing stress, building emotional intelligence, and fostering resilience in both children and parents. The conversation covers practical ways to cope with life's challenges, including handling school issues, dealing with peer pressure, and maintaining motivation. Dr. Lund also shares insights from her books on resilience in children and parents, providing advice on how to balance empathy with encouraging independence. The episode concludes with personal anecdotes and reflections on parenting, including advice for new parents.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].

In this interview, Amanda from Nebraska shares insights into her life on a family farm, where she and her husband manage a cow-calf operation and grow various crops such as corn and soybeans. Amanda discusses their direct-to-consumer beef business that began in 2021 and how it has thrived, along with her passion for gardening. She reveals her balancing act between farming, her work as a crop insurance agent, and raising three young children. She elaborates on the complexities of farm life, the importance of involving kids in agriculture, and the various challenges and rewards of parenting in a farm setting.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].

In this interview, Jeannette Beringer from North Carolina discusses her efforts in preserving endangered livestock breeds, particularly focusing on a French meat chicken breed. She details her work with the Livestock Conservancy, highlighting the importance of genetic diversity in agriculture and the risks of relying on narrow gene pools. Beringer shares stories of her personal experience in breeding heritage breed chickens, the challenges, and successes faced. 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].

On this week's episode of Barnyard Language, Caite and Arlene sit down with Candice Bernard from Arizona, who, along with her husband, operates a diverse farming operation that includes growing alfalfa and grass hay, raising American Wagyu cattle, and running a feedlot. Besides agriculture, they also engage in religious and community activities, with Candice's husband being the preacher at their local church. Candice shares insights into their farming practices, including irrigation and crop choices influenced by the climate in southeastern Arizona. She also discusses the adoption of her three children and the process they went through, recounting the emotional and logistical challenges involved. Additionally, Candice talks about their direct-to-consumer beef business, marketing strategies, and the educational value of involving her children in farmers' markets and customer interactions.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].

In this interview, Susan Lester Ryan from Lester's Farm Market in Newfoundland discusses various aspects of her farming business and family life. The conversation highlights that Susan's farm has been in the family for generations and focuses on growing a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Susan also emphasizes the importance of agritourism and educational programs like the Little Lester's program to engage the community and cultivate future farmers. The family-run farm employs about 90 staff during peak season and has diversified its offerings to include agritourism to sustain the business. The challenges and joys of balancing farm life, family, and raising young children are also discussed. Susan shares relatable anecdotes about naming animals on the farm and the significance of family traditions and community engagement.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].

In this episode of Barnyard Language, Gemma Hodge from Scotland talks about her life on the farm with her husband George, their children, their livestock, and her transition from a beauty business to dog grooming. Gemma shares her struggles with postnatal anxiety, the challenges of managing a farm and raising children, and the adjustments they've made over time. The episode also touches on broader themes of rural life, farming, and mental health.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].

In this episode of Barnyard Language, Caite and Arlene, share updates on their lives post-Halloween, discussing children's Halloween experiences, community events, and farm activities. The conversation then shifts to a deeply personal story with their guest, Courtney Miller, who details her journey through autoimmune hepatitis and a life-saving liver transplant. Courtney recounts her initial diagnosis, the challenges she faced, the testing and approval process for a liver transplant, and the complications and recovery post-surgery. She also highlights the importance of organ donation, sharing insights on the procedures, risks, and emotional burdens associated with being both a recipient and a donor. Additionally, Courtney touches on parenting on the farm, her children’s involvement and learning experiences, and the financial and emotional impact of her health journey on her family. The episode closes with reflections on rural healthcare and provider-patient relationships, emphasizing the significance of understanding and support in challenging medical situations.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].

In this episode of Barnyard Language, Caite and Arlene talk about ranching and parenting with Calli Williams, a first-generation rancher from South Dakota. Calli discusses the challenges and rewards of running a purebred Angus cattle operation with her husband. They delve into the importance of building relationships, effectively managing a direct-to-consumer beef business, and balancing family life with ranch duties. Calli also shares insights into overcoming a serious farm accident involving her husband and how they coped as a family. The episode highlights the nuances of farm life, raising children amidst agricultural responsibilities, and the importance of time management, community support, and maintaining a positive outlook.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].

In this episode of 'Barnyard Language,' Caite and Arlene discuss the seasonal changes on their farms, the challenges and joys of raising livestock, and community involvement. Caite shares her windy weather conditions, a local power outage story, and updates on her livestock. Arlene talks about her return to the sport of curling, the community aspects of it, and a family outing to a rented heated swimming pool. The guest, Christine, shares her insights on regenerative agriculture, including holistic management practices and human creativity in farming. She also talks about her background in agriculture, her experiences as a single parent, and the importance of community and communication in farming. The conversation delves into personal struggles, the value of chores for children, and the importance of understanding individual learning styles in education. The episode ends with a discussion on parenting, internet troubles due to a livestock guardian dog, and the challenges of dealing with customer service for local utilities.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].

In this episode of Barnyard Language, Arlene and Caite discuss the latest happenings on their farms, including Canadian Thanksgiving, the birth of new calves, and the arrival of peak soup weather. Caite shares her dislike for preparing summer foods, preferring hearty soups instead. They also talk about local farming activities, such as the re-roofing of a sheep barn and sorting sheep for breeding. The conversation shifts to family life, with Arlene noting how her children are growing taller and discussing their family Thanksgiving traditions.Caite and Arlene introduce their guest, Sally Crowe, a crofter from Northern Scotland, who shares insights about her farm, her rare livestock breeds, and her business ventures. Sally talks about raising cattle, sheep, and chickens, the transition to sustainable farming practices, and the challenges and rewards of direct selling. She also discusses her experience with fertility treatments, being a single mother by choice, and her appearance on the BBC show 'This Farming Life.' The episode concludes with a light-hearted segment about parenting challenges and the joy of raising her son on the 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].

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].

The podcast episode features an interview with Jessie MacQuarrie from Prince Edward Island, a dairy farmer, and a large animal veterinarian, discussing her life and career. Jessie describes her farm operations, including a Holstein herd, and crop cultivation. She shares her journey of becoming a veterinarian, her work experience across the Maritime Provinces, and managing a farm alongside veterinary duties. Jessie also talks about raising her three-and-a-half-year-old twins who are neurodivergent, discussing the challenges and support systems in place. She mentions her side hobby of making cow’s milk soap and tallow lotion. The challenges of rural daycare, navigating sensory needs for her children, and balancing work and family life are also discussed. Jessie provides insights into farm life, parenting, and maintaining a healthy relationship with in-laws while living in close proximity.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].