My Self Reliance Podcast
Shawn James
Welcome to the Cabin. I’m Shawn James, the host of the My Self Reliance podcast and YouTube channel.
This is the story of how I am withdrawing from modern society to pursue a free, natural, healthy, meaningful and satisfying life and how you can too. Join me as I build an off grid homestead in the wilderness complete with log cabins, an outdoor kitchen, a wood-fired sauna, lumber mill, vegetable garden, fruit orchard, food forest and haven for wildlife.
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Top 10 My Self Reliance Podcast Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best My Self Reliance Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to My Self Reliance 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 My Self Reliance Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
19. Finding Meaning in Life: Family and Outdoor Adventures with Jim Baird
My Self Reliance Podcast
01/29/24 • 72 min
In this captivating episode, we sit down with adventurer Jim Baird to delve into his extraordinary journey of self-reliance and outdoor adventures. Jim shares his gripping survival experience on the renowned show "Alone," where he faced the ultimate test of endurance and resilience in the unforgiving wilderness.
Listen in as Jim recounts a harrowing day battling gale force winds during an outdoor escapade, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the elements and the challenges they present even to the most seasoned adventurers.
We also explore Jim's perspective on outdoor adventures with kids, uncovering the joys and complexities of sharing the wilderness with young explorers and instilling in them a love for nature.
Jim opens up about the profound experience of sleeping alone in the wilderness, reflecting on the solitude, vulnerability, and self-discovery that come with facing the night under the stars.
Join us as we embark on a journey of self-sufficiency and resilience exploration with Jim, discussing the importance of honing survival skills and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
Through candid conversation, Jim shares insights into navigating challenging life circumstances and finding meaning in the pursuit of outdoor passions. He sheds light on the financial struggles that often accompany such pursuits, yet emphasizes the unwavering dedication to following one's passions and crafting meaningful stories through adventure.
Wrapping up our podcast discussion, we delve into the art of storytelling in the realm of adventures, exploring how Jim's experiences inspire and captivate audiences, weaving together tales of survival, perseverance, and the human spirit. Tune in for a riveting conversation on the intersection of adventures and storytelling with the remarkable Jim Baird.
Youtube
youtube.com/c/jim-baird-the-adventurer
The Adventurer Website
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
18. Guide to Buying Cheap Land for Financial Freedom
My Self Reliance Podcast
01/22/24 • 35 min
Having weathered the trials of drinking from a stream that gifted me giardiasis and tamed the stubborn infertile land of my homestead, I'm here to share the raw truths of off-grid living. Discover how to stockpile the essentials and select the perfect patch of land for self-reliance, while weaving through tales from Ontario's historical homesteads. As your guide, I'll recount the saga of reclaiming soil, the dance with local wildlife, and the art of cultivating a sustainable life from the ground up.
Venture with me into the world of sustainable livestock farming, where the pastoral idyll meets the economic grindstone. You'll hear firsthand the peaks and valleys of managing cattle, the surprises in raising pigs, and the conundrums of poultry farming. I'll unravel the financial narrative behind organic feed, the paradox of egg production, and the personal reckonings with the true cost of home-grown meat. If you're contemplating the balance between sustainability and practicality, prepare for an expedition through the pastures of experience.
Finally, we'll step back to survey the expanse of sustainable homesteading, weighing the importance of infrastructure investments against the backdrop of a 70-acre rotational grazing operation. You'll glean strategies for intensive soil improvement, how to incorporate wildlife habitats into your farm design, and how blending hunting, fishing, and foraging with cultivation can forge a self-sufficient lifestyle. Join me as we craft a vision of land stewardship that nourishes both our families and the ecosystems we inhabit. Remember to subscribe and ring that notification bell for a continuous journey into the serene embrace of cabin life.
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
07 Mastering the Art and Science of Firewood: From Gathering to Efficient Burning
My Self Reliance Podcast
11/14/23 • 24 min
Join our knowledgeable host as they guide you through the nuances of choosing the perfect wood for your fireplace or stove. Learn the secrets behind identifying hardwoods and softwoods, and discover why each type plays a crucial role in your heating and cooking experiences. Our host shares practical insights on managing heat levels, offering tips on adjusting airflow, utilizing dampers, and achieving the ideal burn for different purposes, be it heating your home or preparing a sumptuous meal.
Understand the science behind the drying process and gain valuable knowledge on using moisture meters to ensure your wood is ready for prime burning. Learn why the type of wood matters, and how its moisture content and seasoning time affect the resulting fire's efficiency and duration. Discover the science behind why bark may not be your ideal choice for a hot, efficient fire, and the surprising role humidity plays in your wood-burning efforts.
Have you ever considered the varying burning characteristics of hardwood and softwood? Or pondered the impact of your chosen firewood on the heat output and cooking potential of your stove? We're going to get into all of it - discussing everything from the best methods for gathering and storing firewood to the importance of using dry wood for an efficient, smokeless fire. We'll also address the issues that arise when burning wet wood, and why it's absolutely vital to let your wood dry out before burning. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned wood-burner, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge on all things firewood. Our host shares personal anecdotes and practical tips, making this podcast the go-to resource for anyone seeking to elevate their understanding of firewood.
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
06 Discovering Self-Sustainability and Living Off the Land with Modern Homesteader, Chris Gilmore
My Self Reliance Podcast
11/07/23 • 60 min
Ever dreamt of surrendering city life to dwell in serene landscapes, live off the land, and cultivate a more profound connection with nature? Allow us to take you on a journey through the verdant trails of self-sustainability as we chat with Chris Gilmore, an inspiring modern homesteader based in central Ontario, Canada. Together with his wife, Chris has ingeniously intertwined a life of self-reliance with an eco-conscious business model, enriching his lifestyle while being a good steward of the land.
From his youthful influences to the fruition of his dream, Chris imparts an in-depth understanding of his ventures - Chris Outdoors and Wild Muskoka. He illuminates his transition from suburban upbringing to understanding the land's ecology, becoming an adept hand at self-sustaining practices, and building an eco-centric business. Coupled with personal insights, we delve into the importance of comprehending the land's ecology for a sustainable lifestyle, underlining our relationship with the land and other species.
As we wander through the rich tapestry of ecological dynamics, we highlight the importance of sustainable living and the impact we, as humans, have on our environment. We explore the complexities of diverse ecosystems and the nuances of land stewardship through the lens of Indigenous peoples. Wrapping up our exchange, we discuss achieving self-reliance through perennial crops and forest gardening, even in constrained spaces. Chris's narrative paints a vivid picture of his upcoming projects and a hopeful prospect of meeting in person to continue our enlightening discussion on living off the land. So, join us in this captivating episode where we guide you through the wild and wonderful journey of living off the land, sustainability, and self-reliance.
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
05 Traditional Food Preservation and Wild Fermentation with Pascal Baudar
My Self Reliance Podcast
10/31/23 • 74 min
Join us for a conversation based around foraging, wild cuisine, and traditional food preservation techniques. In this episode, we sit down with the forager and author, Pascal Baudar. He's also a wild food researcher/consultant, culinary alchemist, and brewer. Pascal is also considered one of the top fermentation master in North America with a unique focus on using yeast and bacteria which can be found in the local wilderness.
Pascal shares his insights, experiences, and wisdom about the bountiful and diverse flavours found in our natural surroundings. He discusses the benefits of wild ingredients, the joys of foraging, and the sustainable practices that are essential for preserving our ecosystems.
Discover how Pascal's innovative approach to wild food and fermentation has led to the creation of unique dishes and beverages that transcend the ordinary. From wildcrafted beverages to inventive recipes, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the incredible edible landscape that surrounds us. Pascal is the author of 4 bestselling books: Wildcrafted Vinegars (2022), Wildcrafted Fermentation (2020), The Wildcrafting Brewer (2018), and The New Wildcrafted Cuisine (2016).
Whether you're an aspiring forager, an eco-conscious food enthusiast, or simply someone curious about the flavours surrounding you, this episode with Pascal Baudar will open your senses to a world of culinary possibilities waiting to be explored. Tune in to gain insights into a sustainable, flavorful future where the wild is your pantry.
Pascal's Socials
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pascalbaudar/
Website: http://www.urbanoutdoorskills.com
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
04 Foraging for Wild Medicinal Foods, with Laura from Wild Muskoka Botanicals
My Self Reliance Podcast
10/24/23 • 69 min
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Laura Gilmour, the owner of Wild Muskoka Botanicals.
Laura's journey, from the fields of her grandparents' farm to the landscape of Muskoka, has been a lifelong exploration of nature's bounty. Guided by an Italian mentor and her innate curiosity, Laura's love for wild plants blossomed into a fascination with their culinary and medicinal potential.
With a foundation in Environmental Technology and years of hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, herbalism, and permaculture design, Laura brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Her internships on permaculture farms taught her not only about gardening but also about wild food harvesting, herbal medicine preparation, mushroom cultivation, and animal husbandry.
Wild Muskoka Botanicals embodies a commitment to eco-conscious principles. Their artisanal wild foods and cocktail mixers are crafted from locally foraged ingredients, and the process is rooted in sustainability and ecological integrity. Based at the Wild Spirit Permaculture Homestead, on the western edge of Algonquin Park, this venture is all about rekindling our connection with the natural world and reimagining health and wellness through the integration of wild plants and traditional herbal remedies into our modern lives.
Laura Gilmour shares her deep botanical knowledge, insights, and the inspiring journey that led her to create Wild Muskoka Botanicals.
Wild Muskoka Botanicals Socials:
Website: https://wildmuskoka.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildmuskoka/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqURkgSLKR5FhrEsNJMpGww?view_as=subscriber
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
16. How to Start Gardening for Self-Sufficiency with Huw Richards
My Self Reliance Podcast
01/16/24 • 82 min
Imagine stepping into your backyard to be greeted by a thriving garden, bursting with the fruits of your own labor – a dream Hugh, a young permaculture enthusiast, turned into reality. Join me, Shawn James, as I engage with Hugh about his transformation from a family plot in Wales to a seven-acre canvas of biodiversity. We'll share stories of community-driven farming, and I'll reveal how my new book marries the art of gardening with the science of cooking, thanks to insights from Chef Sam Black. Our conversation promises to be a treasure trove for anyone looking to embrace the virtues of self-sufficiency and unearth the potential of their own green space, no matter the size.
As we wander through the world of gardening, we'll touch upon soil's pivotal role as the foundation of a bountiful harvest, sharing secrets on crafting nutrient-rich compost and the marvels of natural farming techniques. I'll share my firsthand experience with methods like Korean natural farming and the wonders of wood chips in creating a lush, productive garden bed. Discover how to coax the most out of nature's offerings and consider the benefits of a tree and grass-centric food system that can revolutionize the way we approach our own food production.
Wrapping up our pastoral journey, we'll reflect on the broader implications of gardening – how it anchors us to nature and knits communities together. I'll share perspectives on community sufficiency and the transformative power of seed saving. Gain practical advice on converting even the smallest of lawns into a food haven and learn why every setback in gardening is but a stepping stone to greater yield. For seasoned gardeners and aspiring green thumbs alike, this episode is a heartfelt invitation to cultivate not just a garden, but a life enriched by the bounty and balance of nature. Join us, as we plant ideas that will grow into a legacy of resilience, taste, and togetherness.
The Self-Sufficiency Garden Book:
https://www.regenerative.press/book-store/p/pre-order-self-sufficiency-garden
YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@HuwRichards?si=8HoBRYecCV87X3L9
Instagram:
instagram.com/huwsgarden
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
15. Turning Passion into Business and Living Nomadically
My Self Reliance Podcast
01/09/24 • 67 min
When Dan and Candice's paths crossed at a yoga studio market, little did they know that their shared love for the earth would sprout into Live Edge, a beacon of sustainability in the world of woodworking. Their story, a tapestry of environmental stewardship and artistic craftsmanship, unfolds as they recount the growth of their business, from repurposing fallen trees into stunning furniture to strengthening the fabric of their community through local markets. Join us and be inspired by a couple who've turned their backs on city chaos for the tranquillity of rural life, proving that with passion and resilience, you can not only build a beautiful life but also make a positive impact on the planet.
Our conversation swerves from the warm glow of woodworking to the colder, more introspective side of life — embracing discomfort and the transformative nature of practices like cold plunging. The duo shares candid moments of failure and the rocky road to success, encouraging us to appreciate the sweetness of triumph against the backdrop of struggle. They also open up about their non-traditional approach to education and parenting, inviting us to question the status quo and consider the richness of experience over the conventional paths we've come to accept.
Peering into the future, Dan and Candice give us a glimpse of their Off-Grid Oasis, a dream in the making, where sustainable living isn't just an ideal but a tangible, year-round journey. With plans for a deck that doubles as a music space to the year-round growth of their gardens, the couple shares their vision for a life that's as close to nature's heartbeat as one can get. So pull up a chair and let the serenity of their story wash over you, as we explore the wild, wonderful world of Live Edge in this episode.
Live Edge Forest Links
Website - https://www.liveedgeforest.com/
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/live_edge_forest/
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
11. Cabin Life Updates: Preparing the Homestead for Winter, Sourdough and Current Projects
My Self Reliance Podcast
11/21/23 • 16 min
Join Shawn James in this week's episode as he shares insights into his journey of self-reliance, and navigating the challenges of living off the grid in the Canadian wilderness. From leaving the corporate world to crafting an off-grid homestead, Shawn provides a glimpse into the rugged beauty of his lifestyle. Despite setbacks, like a recent podcast footage loss, he perseveres through the harsh winter conditions, juggling between an on-grid homestead and a more remote, off-grid dwelling.
In this episode, Sean delves into the meticulous preparations for the impending snowfall, emphasizing the importance of securing firewood and lumber for the colder months. He walks you through the intricacies of his cabin, detailing the off-grid systems, from solar power to drawing water from local sources. As he battles the elements, Sean also updates on the progress of his wife's endeavors in maintaining the on-grid homestead, including cheese-making and sourdough baking.
Explore the challenges of homesteading, from outdoor cleanup to processing meat, as Shawn strives to balance the demands of daily life with ongoing construction projects. From cellar improvements to cabin modifications, Shawn shares the intricate details of his off-grid lifestyle. Tune in for a firsthand account of the joys, struggles, and triumphs of building a life harmonized with nature.
To keep up with Shawn's journey, subscribe on your favourite podcast platform, including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify. Don't miss the weekly updates every Tuesday morning and occasional bonus content. Follow along and witness the growth of this unique platform as Shawn shares his experiences and invites you into the heart of his wilderness homestead.
Step into our under-construction cabin as we talk you through our plans for the future, our ongoing projects, and the thrill of seeing our self-reliant dream take shape. As our podcast channel continues to grow, we welcome your insights on future topics and remain grateful for your unwavering support. So, come along, immerse yourself in the rhythm of our lives and get a glimpse of what it truly means to live off the grid.
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
09 The Truth Behind the Scenes of My Self Reliance - The Other 167 Hours
My Self Reliance Podcast
11/16/23 • 27 min
Throughout my time on YouTube over the past 8 years, I've shared glimpses of my life with my loyal audience. However, there are 167 hours of my week that still go unshared. Today, I'm clearing up some rumours and sharing what truly goes on in those remaining hours.
Ever wonder what it would be like to pack up your life and embark on a journey towards complete self-reliance? Can you imagine selling your house, trading stocks for real estate, and building not just one, but two homesteads from the ground up? I'm Shawn James, and that's exactly what my family and I have done. Join us as we share our story of resilience, transformation and the extraordinary power of ordinary people.
Shifting from the hustle and bustle of modern life to a self-sufficient lifestyle wasn't an easy task, especially with the challenge of maintaining our family's privacy while sharing the experience through YouTube. Yet, here we are, having constructed a rustic, 1400 square-foot house in rural Ontario, a thriving vegetable garden, an orchard, and even a solar power system. We've also dealt with the struggles and navigation of rumours due to gaps in our story – a necessary sacrifice to protect our privacy.
As we unmask our journey towards self-reliance, you'll discover how we moved from the stock market to real estate, built a house and a cabin on an 81⁄2 acre property, and sold our home to move into the cabin for a more self-sufficient life. This episode isn't just a story about resilience; it's about the balance between openness and privacy, the strength of community, and the beauty of building a unique legacy. So come, step into our world, and see what it truly means to create a life of resilience and self-sufficiency.
My Self Reliance YouTube Channel-
https://youtube.com/@MySelfReliance?si=d4js0zGc5ogYvDtO
Shawn James Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5L_M7BF5iait4FzEbwKCAg
Merchandise - https://teespring.com/stores/my-self-reliance
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FAQ
How many episodes does My Self Reliance Podcast have?
My Self Reliance Podcast currently has 19 episodes available.
What topics does My Self Reliance Podcast cover?
The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Alternative Health, Camping, Survival, Hunting, Outdoors, Podcasts, Sports and Wilderness.
What is the most popular episode on My Self Reliance Podcast?
The episode title '19. Finding Meaning in Life: Family and Outdoor Adventures with Jim Baird' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on My Self Reliance Podcast?
The average episode length on My Self Reliance Podcast is 47 minutes.
How often are episodes of My Self Reliance Podcast released?
Episodes of My Self Reliance Podcast are typically released every 4 days, 13 hours.
When was the first episode of My Self Reliance Podcast?
The first episode of My Self Reliance Podcast was released on Oct 14, 2023.
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