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My Self Reliance Podcast

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.

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

theadventurer.ca

Facebook

facebook.com/jbadventurer

Instagram

instagram.com/jbadventurer

Twitter

Support the show

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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My Self Reliance Podcast - 17. Preparedness: Affordable First Steps for Beginner Preppers
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01/19/24 • 19 min

This episode isn't just about chopping wood and battling fevers; it's a journey through the wilds of my youth, the cabins I crafted with my own hands, and the financial turbulence that eventually steered me back to the homestead dream. With tales that traverse from the tangible—like constructing our abode from the forest's bounty—to the philosophical, pondering our role within our families and the natural world, this conversation is a call to embrace the resilience that self-reliance gifts us.
Then there's the practical side of things—you know, the nuts and bolts of making it through unexpected hardships. I'll take you back to the days of my naiveté, holed up in a remote cabin with nothing but a shotgun, my dog, and a sparse pantry. Learning the hard way, I realized the immense value of being prepared. In sharing the essentials of food and water storage, from the five-gallon buckets of grains that could mean survival, to the security of a trusted water filter, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom. As we talk about the peace of mind that comes from a well-stocked larder and the freedom found in self-sufficiency, you'll come away with actionable insights that ensure you're ready for whatever life throws your way.

Support the show

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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My Self Reliance Podcast - 13. Materialism to Minimalism: The Road to a Nomadic Life
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11/28/23 • 77 min

Ever dreamed of trading your daily grind for a life on the road? Imagine swapping your morning commute for a breathtaking sunrise over the Grand Canyon, or your cubicle for a secluded beach. This week, we're joined by Kellie and Cody, a couple who've done just that. They've taken the leap into a nomadic lifestyle, transforming a truck camper into their cozy mobile home.
Kellie and Cody generously share the highs and lows of their journey with us, from the awe-inspiring wildlife encounters to the challenges of finding safe places to stay. We also dig into the profound shift in mindset required when transitioning to a minimalist, travel-focused lifestyle. We learn how they've distanced themselves from materialistic impulses and redefined their understanding of success. But it's not all about the philosophical — we also dive into the practicalities of staying fit on the road, the trials of having a dog along for the ride, and the financial realities of nomadic living.
In this episode, we also open up about our own plans to hit the road with our dog in our truck camper, and how these conversations have inspired us. There's plenty of light-hearted chat too, as we swap travel tales and plans with our guests. So, whether you're flirting with the idea of a nomadic lifestyle, curious about RV living, or just love a good travel yarn, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and stories. Come join us for an inspiring journey into the world of nomadic living!
YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@CodyandKellie
Website: domelife.camp
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CodyandKellie/
Instagram: instagram.com/codyandkellie

Support the show

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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In today's episode, Shawn takes us through a typical day at the cabin, dealing with firewood and preparing for the impending snow. As he works, he reflects on the challenges of off-grid living and the many questions he receives about finding affordable property for a self-reliant lifestyle.

Shawn shares his own experiences, recounting how he purchased a 20-acre property in an unorganized township for $50,000 in 2017, only to sell it for a significant profit later on. He emphasizes the importance of real estate in building wealth and achieving a self-sufficient life.

Drawing from personal stories of ups and downs, Shawn encourages listeners to consider the benefits of owning real estate despite the challenges. He discusses the historical trends in real estate prices, advising that there's never a perfect time to buy, but waiting might mean missing out on potential opportunities.

In a candid and reflective manner, Shawn offers practical advice on how to navigate the real estate market, stressing the long-term benefits of investing in property. Whether you're just starting out or considering a shift in lifestyle, Shawn's insights provide valuable perspectives on financial security, debt-free living, and the path to a more self-reliant future.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and join Shawn James at the cabin as he shares his wisdom on life, real estate, and the pursuit of a self-sufficient lifestyle.
No Permit Required YouTube Video:
https://youtu.be/8p2AcPYv7gY?si=kDDPmuEwwZwroXKt

Support the show

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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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.

Support the show

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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My Self Reliance Podcast - 10. Deer Bow Hunting and Wild Game Processing
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11/17/23 • 11 min

This episode is your invitation to join me in the deer woods as I alter my hunting strategy in response to the weather conditions. Prepare to traverse the snow-cloaked grounds in search of fresh tracks, while learning about the intricacies of deer behavior during the breeding season. Back at the cabin, have a buck to process and a succulent moose steak dinner to prepare.
Adventure awaits as we trek through the oak groves heavily grazed by deer, all the while discussing strategies to effectively harvest meat over capturing footage. We'll navigate the challenges of strong southeast winds and getting ahead of the deer. Plus, we'll delve into my weekend experience of processing a small buck into deer sausage spiced up with a mouth-watering mix of pork, salt, pepper, sage, thyme, and maple sugar. We won’t stop there, though! Together, we'll explore other food sources like homemade sourdough bread and dairy products from our local milk supplier. So, grab your gear, and let's brave this unique hunting season together!

Support the show

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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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.

Support the show

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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My Self Reliance Podcast - 08 Cabin Life: From Missed Bucks to Cook Stoves
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11/14/23 • 12 min

Ever had that one rookie mistake that completely changed the course of your day? That's what I experienced while bow hunting - a single error cost me a buck. Trust me, you're going to want to hear this story and learn from my blunders. In the same vein, we'll also explore some key pointers about hunting, like understanding the rut season, deer behavior, and why staying scent-free is crucial.
Moving away from the great outdoors to the cozy indoors, I'll walk you through my latest project of replacing my old stove with a cook stove. It's about more than just aesthetics - it's an efficiency and practicality game changer. Plus, we'll navigate our way through the process of installing and comparing stoves of different origins. Discover how factors like the size of the pipe and window can drastically impact a stove’s performance, and why I opted for a stove with a smaller window size. Hang on tight for an episode that is a blend of tales from the wilderness, practical homesteading advice, and intriguing personal experiences.

Support the show

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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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.

Support the show

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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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.

Support the show

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 Camping, Wilderness, Sports, Podcasts, Outdoors, Hunting, Survival, Alternative Health and Health & Fitness.

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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