Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
Dawn Gorham
This is where we talk about real life on the homestead, real food and real natural medicine. We talk about homesteading, building community, prepping and survival from a homemaker's perspective. We do our best to provide real and practical, old-fashioned solutions to modern everyday problems with a positive outlook on the future.
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Top 10 Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Ep. 21 - Farmers vs. Homesteaders - Unpacking the Unspoken Rivalry with Stephanie Tallent
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
08/15/24 • 55 min
Ever wondered about the real dynamics between traditional farmers and modern homesteaders? Join me, Dawn Gorham, along with my special guest Stephanie Tallent, as we uncover the deep-seated tensions and profound shifts within the world of agriculture. We promise you'll gain valuable insights into how corporate influence has shaped contemporary farming practices, and how homesteaders are pushing back with a holistic, self-sufficient approach. We also discuss how homesteaders might want to check our attitudes at the door.
Stephanie and I also dive into the fascinating yet contentious world of raw milk farming. You'll hear personal stories that highlight the evolving perceptions of raw milk, the contrasting realities between small-scale and industrial dairy operations, and the unique regulatory challenges faced by farmers. We discuss the growing direct-to-consumer demand for raw milk and the philosophical shift towards a more personalized approach to food and healthcare.
Lastly, we explore the diverse ideologies within the homesteading community, touching on everything from natural and herbal methodologies to more conventional practices. We talk about the critical importance of learning from experienced farmers, the need for preparedness in emergency situations, and share exciting updates from our own farms. This episode is packed with real-life experiences, practical tips, and heartfelt reflections that you won't want to miss!
TheGorhamHomestead.com
Ep. 16. Growing Gardens and Expanding Horizons
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
06/26/24 • 30 min
Ever tried to move a six-foot emu size fence without losing your sanity? Join me on this week's episode of Keeping it Real at the Gorham Homestead, where I recount the unexpected fencing project that momentarily sidelined our regular podcast schedule. Hear about the trials and triumphs of tackling this massive job with the help of a young assistant, and get a sneak peek into our plans for upcoming episodes, including a deep dive into our top 10 essential oils in an upcoming interview with Joy Hinterkopft, who will share the scientific benefits of herbs and essential oils. Plus, don't miss updates on our homestead garden struggles, where we're harvesting Roma tomatoes, green beans, and more, all while preparing to expand into a homestead market.
This episode isn't just about farm chores and business ventures; it's also a heartfelt reflection on personal milestones. I get candid about the bittersweet experience of watching my youngest child grow up and the mixed emotions of my son Chase being away at camp on his birthday. From the bustling plans to increase raw milk production to the community spirit behind our new market space, this episode captures the essence of homestead life. And stay tuned for some exciting changes to our podcast schedule, with episodes now airing on Thursdays. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just curious about homestead living, there's something here for everyone.
TheGorhamHomestead.com
Ep. 22 - Tee & Me - Homestead Challenges & Winter Preparation
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
10/24/24 • 39 min
What happens when life throws a series of unexpected events your way, and how do you adapt to maintain stability on a homestead? We share our personal journey through family milestones, particularly a recent wedding, while simultaneously navigating the challenges of my mother's health as she transitions to living with us. Amidst these personal shifts, the homestead faced a severe drought, forcing us to feed hay earlier than anticipated. However, the rains have finally come, offering relief and hope as we work to restore our routine and prepare for the colder months ahead.
Our commitment to sustaining our homestead's productivity is more crucial than ever, pushing us to diversify our ventures and support community projects. Join us as we explore the excitement and trials of raising 130 Jumbo Cornish X-Rocks meat birds with neighbors and the joy of discovering the deliciousness of Jumbo Pekin Ducks. We're also planning for expansion, with the addition of American Bresse chickens and the prospect of Emden geese, all while gearing up for Thanksgiving and the changes to the Self-Reliance Festival in 2025.
In the spirit of resilience, we delve into winter preparations and the wisdom of sustainable living, inspired by a vibrant 95-year-old's unconventional health philosophy. Our journey includes participating in events like the Kentucky Sustainable Living gathering, where we share insights on topics like family milk cows. The recent catastrophic weather events have humbled us and reminded us of our purpose. Our focus remains on community support and readiness. As we continue to grow and adapt, we're reminded of our humble beginnings and the ongoing journey toward a self-reliant and fulfilling life on the homestead.
Today's sponsor: Hamilton Gorham & Duncan, PLLC
Located in Bellevue, TN at 161 Belle Forest Circle. 615-467-3200. Go see attorneys, Tee Gorham or Jad Duncan for all your family's legal needs. Tell them you heard about them on this podcast!
TheGorhamHomestead.com
Ep. 20 Resilient Living - Preparing for the Unpredictable
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
08/08/24 • 32 min
Have you ever wondered what it takes to ensure the safety of raw milk on a homestead? Join me on Keepin' it Real as I share my journey of learning to draw blood from our cows for regular disease testing, and our excitement as we await the A2 status results. You'll also get a close look at the challenges of managing maturing turkeys and a tough encounter with a steer and a permanent weaning ring. This episode is packed with valuable insights on resilient living and the practical steps you can take to prepare for unpredictable times.
Building a new farm community can be daunting, but I've discovered the importance of a strong support network and financial resilience. I recount my personal experience of moving to a new area and the immediate need to connect with neighbors. Together, we formed a tight-knit community with diverse skills that offer emotional and practical support. Additionally, I delve into the necessity of having an emergency fund, diversifying income streams, and possessing barterable goods. By fostering these relationships and financial strategies, we create a more secure environment for ourselves and our loved ones.
Our health and preparedness become even more crucial as we age. In this episode, I explore how strength training and daily stretching can prevent muscle loss and injuries, especially for those over 50. Drawing from my experience managing thoracic outlet syndrome, I offer stretching and stress management techniques. We also discuss the importance of emergency planning, food security through a well-stocked pantry, and the peace of mind that comes from being prepared. Finally, I share a heartfelt story about my southern upbringing, emphasizing the values of love, faith, and pride that shape a resilient and grateful lifestyle.
TheGorhamHomestead.com
Episode 12- We got bees....and they got US!
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
05/21/24 • 30 min
Hey there, Dawn Gorham here, and if you've ever felt the sting of a social media squall or found joy in a mason jar of home-canned strawberries, this episode of the Gorham Homestead podcast is your kind of story. From standing my ground on raw milk debates to sharing laughs over beekeeping acquisitions gone awry, I'm peeling back the curtain on homestead life - the sweet, the spicy, and the unavoidably sticky.
This time around, we're swapping tales from the vibrant trenches of gardening, where tomato plants run wild and bell peppers make for a freeze-drying frenzy. I'm tipping my hat to the local corn supplier while dreaming big about squash and okra expansions. But it's not just about the veggies; it's the heart-pumping thrill of adding more life to the mix - like welcoming my granddaughter Savannah, and those moments of sheer chaos, like trying to outsmart a crafty groundhog with nothing but fishing line and stubborn determination.
Strap in for a candid exploration of homesteading and its dance with daily life. From the practical magic of automated milking to the detailed planning that lets us sneak away for a quick trip (chickens and cows notwithstanding), these stories are a testament to family, resilience, and the power of a well-tended garden. So, whether you're a seasoned homesteader or just bee-curious about the buzz, join us as we keep it real and cultivate a life rooted in tradition and togetherness.
TheGorhamHomestead.com
Episode 14- Exploring Nature's Pharmacy- Part 1
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
06/04/24 • 45 min
Unlock the secrets of natural healing straight from our Tennessee homestead on this week's episode of "Keeping It Real" at the Gorham Homestead. Ever wondered how a simple herb can speed up the healing of bones, wounds, and sprains? Join me, Dawn Gorham, as I share the incredible benefits of comfrey, from its cell-regenerating properties to its uses in teas and poultices for respiratory relief and digestive health. We'll also discuss crucial precautions for those with liver issues and offer practical tips on how to incorporate this powerful herb into your daily routine.
But that's not all. We dive into the versatile uses of yarrow and blackberry, two herbs that have become staples in our natural medicine cabinet. Drawing from personal experience, I reveal how yarrow has helped treat wounds, menstrual cramps, and fevers, and even stopped nosebleeds in seconds. Plus, learn about blackberry's astringent properties and how its leaves and roots can effectively treat diarrhea and hemorrhoids. Discover how blackberry juice can soothe an upset stomach without any added sugar.
Lastly, we explore the medicinal uses of some lesser-known yet highly effective herbs, including goldenrod, elderberry, rabbit tobacco, boneset, and mullein. You'll hear insights from Daryl Patton's enlightening book, "Mountain Medicine, the Herbal Remedies of Tommy Bass," and uncover how these herbs have been used to support respiratory health, boost immunity, and treat common ailments like asthma and lung congestion. From breaking fevers to alleviating earaches, these Native American herbs offer a treasure trove of natural solutions for your health needs. Don't miss this informative journey into the heart of herbal medicine.
TheGorhamHomestead.com
Ep.17 Unlocking the Magic of Essential Oils
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
06/27/24 • 31 min
Have you ever wondered how a small bottle of essential oil could revolutionize your daily routine? Discover the transformative power of essential oils and their fascinating history on Keeping it Real at the Gorham Homestead. I'll share personal stories from my own journey towards a more natural lifestyle, including how peppermint essential oil has become my go-to for headaches and sinus relief, and the many versatile uses of lavender, from skincare to natural deodorant.
You'll learn why quality is paramount when it comes to choosing essential oils and how brands like Young Living stand out for their commitment to purity. We'll explore the benefits of essential oils in daily maintenance, emotional well-being, and cleaning, with specific mentions of lavender and lemon for their calming and detoxifying properties. Plus, discover the incredible skin care and wound healing benefits of frankincense, lavender, and myrrh.
On the homestead, essential oils take on even more roles. Learn how lemongrass can help with bee swarms and inflammation, while Melissa oil, despite its cost, is a powerhouse against cold sores and shingles. Thieves oil proves essential for cleaning and maintaining milking machines, and tea tree oil stands out for its broad-spectrum usefulness. We'll wrap up with a heartfelt discussion on the importance of quality, encouraging you to research and find what works best for you. For more insights and to stay connected, visit TheGorhamHomestead.com and follow us on social media as The Gorham Homestead.
References:
Young Living - check out my favorite essential oil company here. (Full disclosure, I do earn a commission) https://www.youngliving.com/us/en/referral/4604050
Sponsors:
A Bee's Closet - Bon Aqua, Tennessee for all your beekeeping needs
Rogina, LLC - your mold testing specialist, water damage assessments, lead sampling, sewege contamination sampling located in Florida www.RoginaConsulting.com
TheGorhamHomestead.com
Episode 6 - Tee & Me Snowmaggedon
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
01/20/24 • 28 min
Summary
In this episode, Dawn and Tee Gorham discuss their experiences being snowed in on their Tennessee homestead. They talk about the challenges of being stuck together 24/7 and the importance of having separate activities. They also provide an update on their pantry challenge and share their improvisation in cooking meals with limited ingredients. The couple discusses the difficulties of dealing with excess milk during the snowstorm and the importance of having a generator for power outages. They also talk about the need for chains on their vehicles for emergencies and the challenges of dealing with trolls on social media. The episode concludes with a discussion on food preservation and plans for homemade pizza night.
Takeaways
Being stuck together 24/7 can be challenging, and it's important to have separate activities and personal space.
During a snowstorm, improvisation in cooking meals with limited ingredients is necessary.
Having a generator is crucial for maintaining power during outages, especially for those on well water.
Being prepared for emergencies, such as having chains for vehicles, is important for safety.
Dealing with trolls on social media can be frustrating, but it's important to stay true to oneself and not let negativity affect you.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Topic
01:09 Snowed In
02:18 Stuck Together
03:05 Working Together
04:00 Pantry Challenge Update
05:18 Cooking Improvisation
06:12 Dealing with Excess Milk
07:10 Power Outage and Water Hauling
08:07 The Importance of a Generator
09:06 Preparing for Emergencies
09:59 Dealing with Illness
12:00 Dealing with Trolls
13:19 Designing Their Life Together
14:43 Prepping for Emergencies
16:33 The Need for Chains on vehicles
18:47 Legalizing Chains in Tennessee
20:14 Surviving the Snowstorm
21:39 Rip the Great Pyrenees
22:05 Food Preservation
23:56 Homemade Pizza Night
26:26 Uncertainty about Court Appearance in the snow
27:23 Upcoming Solo Show
28:17 Outro
TheGorhamHomestead.com
Episode 5 - The Family Milk Cow
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
01/17/24 • 46 min
Summary
In this episode, Dawn Gorham discusses the topic of keeping a family milk cow. She shares her personal experience and opinions on the matter, emphasizing that there are many ways to keep a milk cow and what works for her may not work for everyone. Dawn covers various aspects of keeping a milk cow, including calf sharing, breeding, weaning, equipment, feeding, potential illnesses, and disease testing. She also discusses her future plans for expanding her microdairy and the challenges of processing milk. Overall, Dawn provides valuable insights and advice for those interested in keeping a family milk cow.
Takeaways
There are many ways to keep a family milk cow and what works for one person may not work for another.
Calf sharing can help minimize the daily milking commitment and provide flexibility for vacations or breaks.
Artificial insemination can be a cost-effective alternative to keeping a bull but it may not have the same success rate.
Testing for diseases like brucellosis, tuberculosis, and Johnes is a personal choice and depends on individual preferences and circumstances.
Expanding a microdairy may require additional equipment, such as a milk parlor and cream separator, to improve efficiency and processing capabilities.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Snowmageddon 2024
01:40 History of Keeping a Family Milk Cow
03:18 Personal Opinion and Individual Approach
04:17 Controversy of Raw Milk
05:10 Old Timers' Perspective on Milk Cows
06:03 Calf Sharing to Minimize Milking Commitment
07:25 Vacations and Breeding Timing
08:25 Bulls or Artificial Insemination
09:23 Weaning and Grafting Calves
10:47 Equipment and Milking Process
17:31 Feeding and Minerals for Milk Cows
27:06 Potential Illnesses and Testing
29:23 Choosing a Milk Cow and Disease Testing
37:08 Expanding the Microdairy and Future Plans
41:37 Cream Separation and Processing
42:07 Dealing with Spent Cows
44:30 Conclusion and Call to Action
TheGorhamHomestead.com
Episode 15- Exploring Nature's Pharmacy Part 2
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast
06/11/24 • 49 min
Can herbs truly transform your life and boost your homesteading journey? Join us on this enlightening episode of Keeping it Real, the Gorham Homestead podcast, as we unravel the mysteries behind our latest beekeeping endeavors and share valuable lessons from our meat chicken processing experience. From the health of our new colony to the challenges faced with an older hive, we provide a comprehensive update on the buzzing world of bees. Plus, gain practical tips on timely ordering and choosing the right feed types to enhance your homestead's productivity.
Ever wondered how lemon balm can soothe hyperactive children or St John's wort can ease anxiety and depression? We delve deep into the powerful healing properties of these herbs, revealing their cultivation secrets, preparation methods, and various forms of use. Discover how lemon balm's antiviral benefits can be amplified with licorice, and learn about St John's wort's potential side effects and the importance of consulting healthcare providers. This episode is packed with actionable insights that can help you harness the natural remedies around you for better health and well-being.
As we venture further into the world of herbs, we explore the benefits and precautions of using Queen Anne's Lace and wild lettuce, highlighting their significant roles in managing blood sugar levels and relieving pain. Plus, the heart-health benefits of motherwort and the immune-boosting powers of echinacea are uncovered, offering you a holistic approach to herbalism. Reflecting on the importance of utilizing natural resources, we provide inspiration for you to embrace the art of herbalism in your own life. Don't miss out on our upcoming episode about essential oils, and be sure to connect with us on social media and our website to stay engaged with our homesteading journey.
***Thank you to our sponsor "A Bee's Closet". Be sure to go see Joe Ellis for the best service and help on all your beekeeping needs!
TheGorhamHomestead.com
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FAQ
How many episodes does Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast have?
Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast currently has 22 episodes available.
What topics does Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast cover?
The podcast is about Homestead, Survival, Podcasts, Garden, Self-Improvement, Education, Prepper, Arts, Homesteading, Natural, Herbal and Food.
What is the most popular episode on Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast?
The episode title 'Episode 5 - The Family Milk Cow' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast?
The average episode length on Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast is 35 minutes.
How often are episodes of Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast released?
Episodes of Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast are typically released every 6 days, 23 hours.
When was the first episode of Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast?
The first episode of Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast was released on Jan 2, 2024.
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