Small Scale Life

Merry Christmas, everyone!  As I mentioned in Season 1, Episode 21 Winter Driving and Survival Tips, I wanted to do something fun for Christmas that the whole family could enjoy.  My dad used to read "Twas the Night before Christmas" to the family when we were young, so in that fine tradition, I read and recorded it for you and your family. Reading this brought so many memories back from when I was young. In this day and age when we are so caught up in shopping and presents and packages and dinners and parties, it is important to take a little time to stop and enjoy the moment.  As my brother reminded us this week: [tweetthis]"Life is but a mist; we are only on this earth for a short time. Enjoy life, family & friends! Merry Christmas!"[/tweetthis] From our family to yours, have a Merry Christmas!  Please enjoy your family and friends and make some new memories. Links for "Twas the Night before Christmas" [caption id="attachment_1436" align="aligncenter" width="3264"] Merry Christmas, everyone![/caption]   During this episode of the Small Scale Life Podcast, I mention the following links: Twas the Night before Christmas Poem A Visit from St. Nicholas Wikipedia Twas the Night before Christmas - UK Carols Blog  The closing song was borrowed from this YouTube video:   https://youtu.be/yGVZBpzh47I   Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Small Scale Life Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but GREATLY appreciated)! You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

Winter is here with all its fury.  In the past couple weeks, we have gotten over 12 inches of snow and have endured subzero temperatures.  The wind chill in Minnesota has pushed temperatures to -20 to -30 degrees Fahrenheit.  It feels like our typical mid-January freeze!  In these conditions, winter driving can be treacherous.  Since I drive in some remote rural areas, I have started paying close attention to conditions and my own preparations.  Of course, things happen fast and sometimes you can find yourself stuck in a drift (yes, it happened yesterday). I did some research about driving and surviving in the cold, and figured it would be helpful to pass this information along to you. This episode is titled Winter Driving and Survival Tips, and is Part 2 of last week's podcast on Winter Tips which focused on preparing yourself and your house for the winter. Podcast Topics for Winter Driving and Survival Tips [caption id="attachment_1385" align="aligncenter" width="800"] So you want to walk across that in the freezing cold?[/caption] In this podcast, I discuss the following topics: Vehicle Safety Kits Winter Driving Tips Survival Tips if You are Stuck Links [caption id="attachment_1386" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Winter roads are pretty, but they can be treacherous![/caption]   During this episode of the Small Scale Life Podcast, I mention the following links: Small Scale Life Podcast Season 1 Episode 20: Winter Tips Pep Boys: Jump-Starting Your Battery Using Another Car Ready Wisconsin: How to Make a Winter Survival Kit Small Scale Gardening Facebook Group MN-WI Regenerative Agriculture Facebook Group   Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Small Scale Life Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but GREATLY appreciated)! You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review

Winter has arrived in force!  We got our first decent snowfall here in Minnesota on Saturday.  On top of the snow, we are getting slammed by January-like cold.  We will be dealing with -20 degree Fahrenheit temperatures by Saturday here in the Twin Cities.  In fact, as I recorded this podcast, it was -1 degree Fahrenheit (and feels like -15 degrees Fahrenheit)!  Winter is here, and it is time to talk about some key winter tips for preparing yourself, your equipment and your house for this kind of cold and these kind of conditions. As an aside, we welcome new listeners to our weekly podcast from our new Stitcher channel!  If you are new to the Small Scale Life Podcast, this is a weekly show dedicated to developing a sustainable small scale life through healthy living, gardening, frugal living and having adventures along the way!  Our motto is learn, do and grow. If you would like to listen to the Small Scale Life Podcast on Stitcher, listen using the following link: http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/smallscalelife/small-scale-life Podcast Topics https://www.instagram.com/p/BN7Sgt3Akn2/?taken-by=smallscalelife In this podcast, I discuss the following topics: Introduction to the Small Scale Life Podcast and Small Scale Gardening Blog Is Small Scale Life a Wellness Program? Conditions and Driving in Snow Winter Tips for Working in the Cold, Winterizing Your Equipment and Winterizing your House Winter Tips for Managing Ice Dams Links [caption id="attachment_1371" align="aligncenter" width="762"] Our quiet street after the snowstorm - December 2016[/caption] During the Small Scale Life Podcast, I discuss the following links: Small Scale Life Podcast Season 1 Episode 19: Happy Birthday, Small Scale Life! About.com - How to Prevent and Remove Ice Dams University of Minnesota Extension - Ice Dams Sample Hour with Drew Sample Small Scale Gardening Facebook Group MN-WI Regenerative Agriculture Facebook Group   Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Small Scale Life Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but GREATLY appreciated)! You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

HELP Episode 8: Mind Games November and Thanksgiving have come and gone!  Can you believe it?  Where did the time go?  We had a lot of stuff going on in November including the election, Thanksgiving and some major life events.  After taking the month of November off, I am back for a "Just Tom" Healthy Lifestyle Podcast.  I have to admit that we all play mind games with the holidays, and as I post this podcast, I can probably record a Part 2 to this podcast for surviving the madness and family mind games that rear their heads during the holidays. Topics I discussed the following topics in this episode: November Madness in the World Mind Games for Dealing with Chaos Update about Drew Sample Thanksgiving Reflections Visiting a Homestead Spending Time with Family and Relatives Eating and Drinking During the Holidays New Plan and Getting Back to the Gym and Pool Links   https://youtu.be/pWEwNa8pICg During the podcast, I discussed a few different sites, podcasts, videos and blogs.  The following is a list of those links: Episode 7 of the HELP Podcast - Drew and I interview Kevin Geary about what we are doing and about the three pillars to healthy living: Eat, Move and Live Thanksgiving Reflections - I wrote a post about Thanksgiving and some other thoughts I had about the blog and podcast How to Make Cranberry-Jalapeno Jelly - I posted a how-to article for making cranberry-jalapeno jelly Sample Hour Episode 127 - Drew talks about his job situation before interviewing Ray Tyler from Rose Creek Farms Kevin Geary’s Rebooted Body – Drew and I interview Kevin Geary in Episode 7 of the HELP Podcast. Check out his site to “get a body and life you love” Kevin Geary’s YouTube Channel Speak Out Game - A great game we played over Thanksgiving.  See the video above Linkee - Another game we played recently.  Really fun game Rate on iTunes We really need some more ratings from listeners, so please rate and review the Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog.  As you know, people look at reviews before they listen.  No reviews or poor reviews mean that no one cares to listen or rate the podcast.  You don’t need to write a book or write anything.  Just give a few stars (not going to lie: I want five stars) for the Podcast. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars (five would be awesome) Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but appreciated) You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review! Disclaimer Drew and I are not licensed health care or fitness experts.  We are not doctors.  Please be sure to consult your doctor, dietician or other health care professional about health, fitness or other medical issues.  All information shared on the Healthy Lifestyle Podcast and Small Scale Life are for informational and inspirational purposes only.

Season 1 Episode 19: Happy Birthday, Small Scale Life! Can you believe that the Small Scale Life is over a year old?  Happy birthday, Small Scale Life!  In this episode of the podcast, I talk about why I started blogging, what we have accomplished this year and what is ahead in the next year.  I really want to thank all of you for following Small Scale Life, the Small Scale Life Podcast, and Healthy Lifestyle Podcast with Drew Sample.  We have a lot planned for the future, so stay tuned!  We will continue to learn, do and grow together! Podcast Topics https://www.instagram.com/p/BMqHLeogzXQ/?taken-by=smallscalelife In this podcast, I discuss the following topics: One Year Anniversary of the Small Scale Life Origins of Blogging - Small Scale Gardening Blog Core Principles of Small Scale Life Future of Small Scale Life Links https://www.instagram.com/p/BM0WTFMgLFC/?taken-by=smallscalelife During the Small Scale Life Podcast, I discuss the following links: Small Scale Gardening Blog HELP Podcast Episode 7: Rebooted Body with Kevin Geary Rebooted Body Blog and Podcast Sample Hour with Drew Sample Small Scale Gardening Facebook Group MN-WI Regenerative Agriculture Facebook Group   Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Small Scale Life Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but GREATLY appreciated)! You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

Rebooted Body with Kevin Geary - HELP 7 Have you ever struggled with diet plans?  Do you feel overwhelmed with information from family, friends, media, celebrities, and even popular television shows telling you what you should and shouldn't do to lose weight?  How many times have you started a plan, had some success, and then put that weight back on (or put even more weight on your body)?  Have you ever just wanted to just wipe it all away and start over? You aren't alone if you answered "yes" to one or more of those questions.  Let me be honest with you: I am there right now.  I answered "yes" to all of those questions tonight.  Every. Single. One.  I wish it wasn't the case; I wish I could report that things were going splendidly, and I was well on my way to getting fit and losing weight.  That would be a complete bullsh*t. Drew Sample and I recently interviewed Kevin Geary, blogger, podcaster and creator of Rebooted Body.  As he states on Rebooted Body, Kevin is a "leading authority on the psychology of eating. He and his team have helped men and women in over 30 countries around the world get a body and life they love."  Kevin has been there. struggling with is weight since he was a teenager: thin and unhealthy.  He used to have really low energy and was addicted to sugar and sugary drinks.  Kevin discovered the "Real Food Movement" and lost 40 pounds.  It wasn't until he examined his mindset and understood the "why" behind his eating patterns and confronted those issues that he broke the cycle and started living a healthier lifestyle. Topics https://youtu.be/vZFjloTup6s   Kevin, Drew and I discussed the following topics in this episode: Diet and fitness over the past week and plans for the next week Drew and I tell Kevin about our current diets and work out routines Kevin leads a great discussion about the inner rebel, willpower and discipline (I can relate to the inner rebel) Kevin then discusses the three pillars to healthy living: Eat, Move and Live Eat - Eat real foods; our bodies are nutritionally deficient Move - The human body needs to move; start by walking every day Live  - Sleep at least eight hours a day; focus on gut health For me, this was a powerful podcast that I have been digesting and thinking about a lot recently.  I will be doing some more research and self-examination using the Rebooted Body website and platform.  I learned a lot from this interview, and I appreciate Drew and Kevin being on this podcast with me. Links Kevin, Drew, and I discussed a few different sites, podcasts and video blogs during this episode.  The following is a list of those links:. Kevin Geary’s Rebooted Body – Drew and I interview Kevin Geary in Episode 7 of the HELP Podcast. Check out his site to "get a body and life you love." Kevin Geary's YouTube Channel Rest Faster – Blog post on Robb Wolf’s site about rest protocols and routines to improve your rest and recovery Five Minute Journal – Drew is using the Five Minute Journal to work through issues and develop his mindset Headspace – Drew and Scott are using the Headspace application for daily meditation Audible Application – Make the most of your mundane tasks and drive time! Rate on iTunes I checked iTunes, and we only have three reviews.  Thank you for providing a review (you know who you are; I really appreciate it). We really need some more ratings from listeners, so please rate and review the Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog.  As you know, people look at reviews before they listen.  No reviews or poor reviews mean that no one cares to listen or rate the podcast.  You don’t need to write a book or write anything.  Just give a few stars (not going to lie: I want five stars) for the Podcast. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars (five would be awesome) Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but appreciated) You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

Hogtoberfest and Tribe - HELP 6 What in God's name is Hogtoberfest? Well, ladies and gentlemen, it is a the gathering of people at Nature's Image Farm in Ohio for learning the old ways of slaughtering and processing hogs.  As you will find out in this episode of the Healthy Lifestlye Podcast, it was much more than just processing pork.  Hogtoberfest was about learning the old ways and rituals and adopting them.  It was about sharing the experience, learning skills and breaking bread (and drinking meads, ciders and beers).  Most importantly, it was about forging new relationships and building a small community, a tribe, of homesteaders, urban farmers, beekeepers and their families.  In a world of "plastic fantastic", smart phones, technology and isolation, gatherings like these are necessary.  The lone wolf depicted in Hollywood and today's culture is a lie.  Instead, a group of like-minded individuals, the tribe, is necessary to get stuff done, share resources and lean on each other when "times get tough, or even when they don't." [caption id="attachment_1182" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Hogtoberfest 2016 at Natures Image Farm[/caption] Topics [caption id="attachment_1213" align="aligncenter" width="859"] The Hogtoberest Podcast elevated The Sample Hour to the 2nd best podcast in the world![/caption] Drew and I discussed the following topics in this episode: Diet and fitness over the past week and plans for the next week The Real #2 Podcast Hogtoberfest Recap Tribe and Small Communities: why are they important in the modern world? Links https://www.instagram.com/p/BLbC-xzgrNq/?taken-by=smallscalelife Drew, Scott and I discussed a few different sites, podcasts and video blogs during this episode.  The following is a list of those links: The Sample Hour 125 Hogtoberfest 2016 - The Lumbersquatches at Natures Image Farm discuss Hogtoberfest and what it meant to them. This is a GREAT podcast, and it reminds me of our hunting camps in the spring: telling stories, having a laugh, remembering the old ways, and cracking a beer at 10 AM in the morning. The Sample Hour 124 The Hilbilliness of Hillbillies - Drew Sample and Greg Burns discuss life and business through the prism of a hillbilly homesteader, or in other words, common sense. The Sample Hour 123 The Mental Game of Getting Started Part 1 - Javan Bernakevitch and Drew Sample discuss getting started on a career path. Natures Image Farm - Greg Burns and his family's homestead in Ohio. Kevin Geary's Rebooted Life - Drew and I interview Kevin Geary in Episode 7 of the HELP Podcast. Check out his site! The Contrary Farmer - Gene Logsdon. Check out the website here: The Contrary Farmer Rest Faster - Blog post on Robb Wolf's site about rest protocols and routines to improve your rest and recovery Five Minute Journal – Drew is using the Five Minute Journal to work through issues and develop his mindset Headspace - Drew and Scott are using the Headspace application for daily meditation Audible Application - Make the most of your mundane tasks and drive time! Rate on iTunes I checked iTunes, and we only have three reviews.  Thank you for providing a review (you know who you are; I really appreciate it). We really need some more ratings from listeners, so please rate and review the Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog.  As you know, people look at reviews before they listen.  No reviews or poor reviews mean that no one cares to listen or rate the podcast.  You don't need to write a book or write anything.  Just give a few stars (not going to lie: I want five stars) for the Podcast. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars (five would be awesome) Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but appreciated) You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

Debt and Real Estate Part 1 - S1E17 If you have been listening to the Small Scale Life Podcast or the Healthy Lifestyle Podcast lately, you have heard me talking about moving out of the city to the country.  Julie and I have decided that this is a critical element in our journey to develop a simpler, more sustainable life.  Why do we want to leave the urban area?  We want some rural real estate in order to have a sustainable life through developing relationships and skills in the rural areas. Julie and I are not alone in this quest for rural real estate to develop a more simple, small scale life.  We have talked to others who are part of the Small Scale Gardening and MN-WI Regenerative Agriculture Groups on Facebook who are wanna-be homesteaders stuck in the urban grind.  Like us, they are all charting a path and a course of action that will lead to their eventual escape.  You can escape, ladies and gentlemen, but that escape will take proper planning and focused execution. Speaking of planning and focused execution, our friend Jay Dolan from the Condo to Compound Blog is back to update us on his progress towards purchasing rural real estate.  Jay and I talked about his dream of buying a homestead back in Episode 7 of the Small Scale Life Podcast.  Since that podcast, Jay developed the Condo to Compound Blog and has been focused on paying down his debt.....for the most part anyway. Podcast Topics Jay and I discuss the following: Jay's Condo to Compound Blog How he is paying off debt Hidden costs when buying a house (i.e., debt, maintenance, taxes, etc.) "Home Buying Fever" that he and his girlfriend worked through recently Unfortunately, the podcast ended early due to Jay getting called to the "principal's office."  Never fear!  We recorded Part 2 already, and I will be posting it soon. Links https://www.instagram.com/p/BLcrRuvAG8U/?taken-by=smallscalelife During the Small Scale Life Podcast, Jay and I discuss the following links: Jay's Condo to Compound Blog Dave Ramsey - How to Battle Temptation in the Search for Your Starter Home Jack Spirko's Survival Podcast - Episode 1628 Five Financial Landmines to Avoid when Buying Land Jack Spirko's Survival Podcast - Episode 1778 Finding a Remote Property Jack Spirko's Survival Podcast - Episode 1788 Finding the Right Property to Turn into a Homestead Average Price of Homes in the Twin Cities   Friends of the Small Scale Life Podcast [caption id="attachment_1202" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Finding the right land is exciting, but make sure you can afford it![/caption] In this Episode, I talk about the following friends of the Small Scale Life Podcast: Condo to Compound Blog – Jay Dolan’s journey from an urban/suburban life to a rural life. Failing Forward Profitable Urban Farming – Drew Sample and Scott Hebert’s weekly podcast about success, failures and life as an urban farmer. Reconnaissance Man – Aaron Clarey’s latest book for today’s youth where he recommends that the Reconnaissance Man (or Woman) takes the time to explore this country, not just to see what this country has to offer, but to find out who they are, where they belong, and what they really want out of life. Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Small Scale Life Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but GREATLY appreciated)! You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

Tribe, Ritual and Debt - S1E18 October is winding down, and it feels like there is A TON to do.  I have not posted much this week because I have been processing vegetables and herbs like crazy!  I decided to clear the garden beds, and that triggered a mad dash to get preserve the vegetables and herbs before everything rotted.  In the past two weeks, I have made salsa and tomato sauce, frozen rhubarb, and drying parsley, dill, and oregano.  I am thrilled to be exercising some of my equipment and skills this season, but in the back of my mind, I knew I had content like this podcast about tribe, ritual and debt to post. If you listened to Season 1, Episode 17, our friend Jay Dolan from the Condo to Compound Blog was called to the "principal's office" at the firehouse to handle an assignment.  We had a chance to get together and discuss a number of topics again.  I was trying to get Jay on HELP Episode 6 about Hogtoberfest, but things didn't quite work out.  Jay and I ended up furthering our discussion about tribe and small communities, as well as a number of other topics.  As a head's up to you, Jay does make an announcement about his blog towards the end of the show, so if you have been to his site, you will understand what he is talking about. Podcast Topics https://www.instagram.com/p/BLkQVHMAg07/?taken-by=smallscalelife Jay and I discuss the following: One Year Anniversary of the Small Scale Life Blog Tribes and Rituals Debt and Debt Reduction Budgeting Concepts Vision of the Rural Life Learning Skills and Taking Time Condo to Compound Blog Updates   Links https://youtu.be/O4Go_UmX-ZM During the Small Scale Life Podcast, Jay and I discuss the following links: Jay’s Condo to Compound Blog John Mosby - Forging the Hero: Who Does More is Worth More Drew Sample and The Sample Hour - TSH - 125 - Hogtoberfest 2016 HELP Episode 6 – Hogtoberfest and Tribe USA Today - Nearly 7 in 10 Americans have less than $1,000 in savings Dave Ramsey – How to Start to Get Out of Debt  Jack Spirko’s Survival Podcast – Episode 1628 Five Financial Landmines to Avoid when Buying Land Jack Spirko’s Survival Podcast – Episode 1778 Finding a Remote Property Jack Spirko’s Survival Podcast – Episode 1788 Finding the Right Property to Turn into a Homestead Jay and I talked about the commercial using Aerosmith's "Dream On" song.  I was wrong; it was Walmart.  I linked it above. Friends of the Small Scale Life Podcast   In this Episode, I talk about the following friends of the Small Scale Life Podcast: Condo to Compound Blog – Jay Dolan’s journey from an urban/suburban life to a rural life. Failing Forward Profitable Urban Farming – Drew Sample and Scott Hebert’s weekly podcast about success, failures and life as an urban farmer. Reconnaissance Man – Aaron Clarey’s latest book for today’s youth where he recommends that the Reconnaissance Man (or Woman) takes the time to explore this country, not just to see what this country has to offer, but to find out who they are, where they belong, and what they really want out of life. Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Small Scale Life Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but GREATLY appreciated)! You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

Failing Forward: Losing Weight, Gaining Muscle, Having Discipline - HELP 5 It is October and it is time for the Healthy Lifestlye Podcast!  In this Episode, Drew and I start by discussing losing weight and gaining muscle.  We both have been struggling in our weight loss challenges, and we discussed perfectionism and discipline (or lack thereof).  Drew brought our friend Scott Hebert into the conversation about half way through the podcast, and we has a great discussion about journaling, meditation, routines and discipline.  It is great listening to and learning from Scott since he lost 60-70 pounds right after high school.  You can listen to Scott's story about losing weight and getting healthy on the Small Scale Life Podcast Season 1, Episode 9. Scott, Drew and I discussed the following topics: Pre-podcast schenanigans - Drew and I were figuring out how to record the podcast, and I obviously was not listening to and comprehending what he was saying.  It is entertaining, even though we both were swearing during this segment.  As a word of caution: there is swearing in this podcast (in case you are listening with your kids) Diet and fitness over the past week and plans for the next week Lifting weights and supplements Discipline and routines Journaling and meditation (the woo woo stuff) Types of people and their success - Coolers, Closers and Cleaners Making the bed with throw pillows What should the Healthy Lifestlye Podcast focus on in future shows Scott Hebert has a YouTube Channel, and I thought this discussion about starting a farm while working another job applies to losing weight as well.  It ties directly into his discussion with us about discipline. https://youtu.be/eJKBrgZ6vfk Links https://www.instagram.com/p/BLElK7tACIk/?taken-by=flavourfulfarms Drew, Scott and I discussed a few different sites, podcasts and video blogs during this episode.  Here is a list of those links: The Sample Hour – Drew’s blog and podcast page Failing Forward Podcast Week 30 - The last podcast of Drew and Scott's urban farming season Half Size Me Podcast 242: Why You Must Let Go Of Perfectionism - Julie found a new podcast and blogger (to us, anyway) that focuses on losing weight and maintaining your weight once you lose it.  This is an interesting podcast on perfectionism, and that is something I struggle with occasionally. Check this out! Rest Faster - Blog post on Robb Wolf's site about rest protocols and routines to improve your rest and recovery Five Minute Journal – Drew is using the Five Minute Journal to work through issues and develop his mindset Bullet Journal - Check out this Getting Started page.  This looks really interesting! Headspace - Drew and Scott are using the Headspace application for daily meditation Ryan Holiday Meditations on Strategy of Life blog Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable - Tim S. Grover Audible Application - Make the most of your mundane tasks and drive time! Rate on iTunes I checked iTunes, and we only have a couple of reviews.  I REALLY would like some more ratings from listeners, so please rate and review the Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews.  You don't need to write a book or write anything.  Just give a few (preferrably five) for the Podcast. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars (five would be awesome) Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but appreciated) You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review! Disclaimer Drew and I are not licensed health care or fitness experts.  We are not doctors.  Please be sure to consult your doctor, dietician or other health care professional about health, fitness or other medical issues.  All information shared on the Healthy Lifestyle Podcast and Small Scale Life are for informational and inspirational purposes only.

Vertical Gardening with The Plant Charmer Part 2 - S2E16 This is Part 2 of my epic interview with The Plant Charmer.  If you are wondering who The Plant Charmer is, his name is Khaled Majouji, and he is an urban farmer in Canada.  Khaled grows an incredible amount of vegetables in vertical garden systems, and he inspired me to build my vertical garden systems this year.  To learn more about The Plant Charmer's background and beginnings, please check out Season 1, Episode 15 of the Small Scale Life Podcast. In this episode of the Small Scale Life Podcast, Khaled and I discussed the following topics: His current property - size and layout His vertical gardening system with a focus on the strawberry fence Soil and amendments Selling products Expansion and vision for a larger operation Instagram tips - how to grow your followers https://www.instagram.com/p/BK58Js-j9PE/?taken-by=theplantcharmer   Thank You and Call to Action https://www.instagram.com/p/BKdcnpRDdjL/?taken-by=theplantcharmer It was great having Khaled on the show, and I appreciate the time he spent talking to me. A couple weeks ago, Khaled found a 10-acre plot to expand In.Genius Farms and finalized the deal for the property.  The battle is not over, however!  Khaled needs funds to set up this operation, so go to his Go Fund Me and donate today to help him realize his dream! I would also like to thank Austin from Beatsby_Roi for providing permission for using the song “Steady Wzdm” from The Lemon Water Chronicles, Volume 1, on the podcast.  I would also like to thank Dillon from The Soapbox Collective Podcast for helping to connect with Austin. https://youtu.be/kaG2xjntczs Khaled and I discussed the following links on the podcast: The Plant Charmer on Instagram The Plant Charmer's Go Fund Me Campaign In.Genius Farms School of Urban Agriculture The Plant Charmer on YouTube The Plant Charmer on Facebook Vertical Gardening 101 Vertical Gardening 102 Check out the In.Genius Farms School of Urban Agriculture.  Khaled has launched a vertical strawberry growing course in his school, and it is FREE!  Get in there and sign up because it looks like a good course on setting up a vertical garden and starting a very good strawberry system.     Friends of Small Scale Life Podcast In this Episode, I talk about the following friends of the Small Scale Life Podcast: Small Scale Gardening Facebook Group - I set up this Facebook so you can share your gardening stories, ask questions and discuss food preservation. Join the group and continue to learn, do and grow with us! Failing Forward Profitable Urban Farming – Drew Sample and Scott Hebert’s weekly podcast about success, failures and life as an urban farmer. Condo to Compound Blog – Jay Dolan’s journey from an urban/suburban life to a rural life. Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Small Scale Life Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but GREATLY appreciated)! You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

Heathly Lifestyle with Chazington Alloucious - HELP 4 Who in the world is Chazington Alloucious?  What does this person have to say about healthy lifestyles, losing weight, fitness, mindset and clean living?  Well, fine friends and followers, you will have to listen to this podcast to find out. Chazington Alloucious and I have a great, meandering discussion about a lot of different topics including: What is happening with the weight loss challenges? Fitness over the past week and plans for the next week Focus and target areas for the next week Mindset - Daily journaling and future plans Geography - Where are the Twin Cities and what are they like? Podcasting problems and challenges Urban farming and hops farming And of course: what DOES a HenWay machine do? For those of you who missed it, here are the five questions from the Five Minute Journal that can be used to start your journaling (if you need a place to start): What am I grateful for? What would make today great? What is my daily affirmation? What are three surprising things that happened today? What could I have done to make today better? Links https://youtu.be/I-skJbxDOhw Chazington Alloucious and I discussed a few different sites, podcasts and video blogs during this episode.  Here is a list of those links: The Sample Hour - Drew's blog and podcast page School Sucks Podcast - Drew's friend who hosts a podcast and an on-line community dedicated to redefining education by promoting home-education, critical thinking, peaceful parenting, personal development and better communication strategies. Greg Burns & Drew Sample Chicken Processing Lifestream on Facebook - Greg, Drew and the Hillbilly Crew processing 80 meat chickens at Nature's Image Farms Five Minute Journal - Drew is using the Five Minute Journal to work through issues and develop his mindset John Suscovich's YouTube Hops Farming Playlist The video above was from the Hop Yard in Maine.  For more information on this farm, please see John Suscovich's Podcast Interview with Geoff Keating. Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Healthy Lifestyle Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but appreciated) You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

HELP Episode 3 - Spinning Salad If this podcast sounds a little different, it is!  I record a brief solo podcast while I am whipping up a salad for a family gathering at William O'Brian State Park on the banks of the St. Croix River.  The salad and company were fantastic as we went to the park and took an almost two mile walk along the river.  If you are in Minnesota, you should spend some time at this park and camp overnight.  You can canoe, kayak, fish, hike and enjoy the great outdoors at this park. [caption id="attachment_1087" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Beautiful weather on the St. Croix River at the William O'Brien State Park in Marine, Minnesota[/caption]   [caption id="attachment_1088" align="aligncenter" width="800"] The State Park Salad that had romaine, spinach, kale, chard, cucumbers, green peppers, bacon (on the side) and tomaotes (on the side).[/caption] In this episode of the weekly Healthy Lifestyle Podcast, I talk about the following topics: Spinning Salad - Ingredients in the Salad Different Foods - Sweet Potatoes, Jalapeno Poppers, Salsa for the 3rd Annual Salsa Contest Kwitcherbellyackin Weight Loss Challenge - Initial Weight and Progress during Week 1 and Week 2 Workout and Diet Plan Updates - It has been a strange week Updates and Changes - Forum on Small Scale Life, Winter Gardening, Experiments and Future of my Backyard Garden Drew Sample will be returning in Episode 4 of the Healthy Lifestyle Podcast, and we will be recording and posting that podcast soon! Links [caption id="attachment_1089" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Before dinner, we took a walk along the St. Croix River at William O'Brien State Park.[/caption] I did not talk about any links during this podcast, but I think you should go to the following sites: William O'Brian State Park on the banks of the St. Croix River Two Beers with Charles Hugh Smith - on the The Sample Hour Workout and Diet Plan for the Weeks of 9/4/16 and 9/11/16 – Tom’s Workout and Diet Program The Whole 30 Program – Drew’s Program for Changing his Relationship with Food DDP Yoga – Drew’s Fitness Program Tabata Workouts for Beginners - My friend Jay Dolan said I should be trying some Tabata Workouts Friends of Healthy Lifestyle Podcast I am always happy to show some of my friends some love.  This week’s friends of the Healthy Lifestyle Podcast: Small Scale Gardening Group on Facebook - Failing Forward Profitable Urban Farming – Drew Sample and Scott Hebert’s weekly podcast about success, failures and life as an urban farmer. Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Healthy Lifestyle Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but appreciated) You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

Vertical Gardening with The Plant Charmer Part 1 - S1E15 In this episode of the Small Scale Life Podcast, I interviewed The Plant Charmer.  You might be wondering: who is The Plant Charmer?  This is a gentleman named Khaled Majouji, an urban farmer from the Montreal area in Canada who grows an incredible amount of vegetables in vertical gardens!  Khaled inspired me to build my two gutter vertical garden system this year. The Plant Charmer and I discussed the following topics during the show: Background and beginnings Why he started urban farming How he developed vertical gardening using shoe organizers and rain gutters Selling produce Philosophy Thoughts on Big Agriculture Since we had such a great conversation that stretched for almost three hours, I broke this interview into a series. Part 2 of this podcast will be posted next week! Thank You and Call to Action https://www.instagram.com/p/BJduqJrDnML/?taken-by=theplantcharmer It was great having Khaled on the show, and I appreciate the time he spent talking to me.  We had a long and awesome conversation, and because of that, we will have a Part 2 of this show.  Khaled is working hard to get funds for a larger piece of land to expand his farming operation on a one acre homestead.  In addition, he would like to set up a greenhouse and purchase a vehicle to deliver produce to a CSA.  Khaled needs funds to set up this operation, so go to his Go Fund Me and donate today! I would also like to thank Austin from Beatsby_Roi for providing permission for using the song “Steady Wzdm” from The Lemon Water Chronicles, Volume 1, on the podcast.  I would also like to thank Dillon from The Soapbox Collective Podcast for helping to connect with Austin. Links [caption id="attachment_1025" align="aligncenter" width="590"] The Plant Charmer has revolutionized growing food vertically! Source: The Plant Charmer's Instagram site[/caption]   Khaled and I discussed the following links on the podcast: The Plant Charmer on Instagram The Plant Charmer's Go Fund Me Campaign The Plant Charmer on YouTube The Plant Charmer on Facebook Vertical Gardening 101 Vertical Gardening 102 In.Genius Farms School of Urban Agriculture Check out the In.Genius Farms School of Urban Agriculture.  Khaled has launched a vertical strawberry growing course in his school.  The cost is $50, and it looks like it is a great value! https://www.instagram.com/p/BJtYjloDSqV/?taken-by=theplantcharmer   Friend of Small Scale Life Podcast In this Episode, I talk about the following friends of the Small Scale Life Podcast: Condo to Compound Blog – Jay Dolan’s journey from an urban/suburban life to a rural life. Failing Forward Profitable Urban Farming – Drew Sample and Scott Hebert’s weekly podcast about success, failures and life as an urban farmer. Reconnaissance Man – Aaron Clarey’s latest book for today’s youth where he recommends that the Reconnaissance Man (or Woman) takes the time to explore this country, not just to see what this country has to offer, but to find out who they are, where they belong, and what they really want out of life. Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Small Scale Life Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but GREATLY appreciated)! You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!

Labor Day Reset - HELP 2 September is finally here!  The kids are back in school, and life settles into a routine.  Fall is a fantastic time, however.  Football, crisp mornings, and leaves changing make it my favorite time of year.  For me, Labor Day marks the tipping point from summer to fall (based on my old football days).  It can also be a time to reset and adjust goals and get some momentum before the infamous pumpkin spice and holiday season! Drew and I attempted to record and post this last Friday (9/2/16); however, somehow my computer did not record the podcast.  That is unfortunate because it was a fantastic conversation! Drew had just completed his Two Beers with Charles podcast on the Sample Hour, and we discussed a variety of topics for this podcast. I decided to move ahead and record Episode 2 on my own, but Drew and I will record Episode 3 and post it as soon as we can get together.  I am taking steps to make sure I have redundant recordings (so I don't lose a podcast).  In this episode of the weekly Healthy Lifestyle Podcast, I talk about the following topics: Traveling in Colorado and Wisconsin - How did it go?  What lessons did I learn? Resetting for Labor Day - Goals, working out, and diet Launching the NEW Kwitcherbellyackin Weight Loss Challenge - What is it and how does it work? Focusing on specific areas this month https://www.instagram.com/p/BJzZ9EBAKE7/?taken-by=smallscalelife   Links While I did not manage to record the podcast, Drew and I talked about the following links during this podcast: Two Beers with Charles Hugh Smith - on the The Sample Hour Workout and Diet Plan for the Week of 8/28/16 – Tom’s Workout and Diet Program NEW Kwitcherbellyackin Hillbilly Weight Loss Challenge The Whole 30 Program – Drew’s Program for Changing his Relationship with Food DDP Yoga – Drew’s Fitness Program Tabata Workouts for Beginners - My friend Jay Dolan said I should be trying some Tabata Workouts https://youtu.be/dVNoZfmWfNc Friends of Healthy Lifestyle Podcast I am always happy to show some of my friends some love.  This week’s friends of the Healthy Lifestyle Podcast: Condo to Compound Blog – Jay Dolan’s journey from an urban/suburban life to a rural life. Failing Forward Profitable Urban Farming – Drew Sample and Scott Hebert’s weekly podcast about success, failures and life as an urban farmer. Rate on iTunes Since we are now on iTunes, please rate and review the Healthy Lifestyle Podcast.  Ratings and reviews help us grow the podcast and the blog, and I appreciate your reviews. You can leave a review by following these simple steps: Click on this link or the image above. Go to ratings and reviews. Click on the number stars. Subscribe to the podcast (optional, but appreciated)! You can also write a quick review or some words of encouragement (optional, but appreciated) You can also write a longer review, though it’s not necessary.  Again, thank you for listening and your review!