Surviving Hard Times

How do you successfully set up a self-sustainable homestead – especially in these trying times? While there are many approaches to this lifestyle, the individuals who do it well are setting an example for those of us eager to learn for ourselves… In this episode, we sit down with Gary Dickenson from the YouTube channel Baltic Homesteaders to discuss his experience moving from the UK to northern Vidzeme to establish an entirely new, self-sufficient life with his family. By following permaculture principles and working alongside nature, Gary and his family make the most from our land – and participate in true self-sustainability… Tune in now to find out: 1) What it means to be a homesteader. 2) How to take care of and harvest timber in a forest. 3) The two stages of tree cultivation. 4) The benefits of working with a “no dig” garden. 5) Challenges associated with regenerative agriculture. Make sure you follow along with Gary and his family by connecting with him on YouTube and on Instagram! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

With the instability of the modern world, subjects like alternative therapy and psychedelics can seem too nebulous to consider. But what if they actually offer distinct clarity that could change our perspective on society and human consciousness as we know it? In this episode, we connect with Jahan Khamsehzadeh, the author of The Psilocybin Connection: Psychedelics, the Transformation of Consciousness, and Evolution on the Planet – An Integral Approach. He sits down to discuss his new book and the role he plays in the fascinating world of psychedelic medicine. In his book, Jahan provides a comprehensive guide to psilocybin mushrooms and their impact on our psychology, biology, and social development. Through his writing, Jahan “moves our understanding of the psychedelic mushroom forward toward a fresh, hopeful, and exciting future…” Jump in now to explore: 1) The connection between psychedelics and spirituality. 2) How to safely and successfully approach a psychedelic trip. 3) Human conditions that psychedelics have been linked to healing. 4) How Jahan’s background developed into his current work. Want to find out more about Jahan and his work? Visit https://psychedelicevolution.org now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Most people find growing mushrooms much harder than other food crops, but Jordan Jent discovered that they were one of the only crops he could grow successfully. Starting from scratch, he learned everything he could about the science and techniques of mushroom growing. Through a lot of trial and error, he’s mastered the craft and now produces 700 to 800 pounds weekly, supplying 30+ restaurants. Press play and learn more about Jent’s company, Texas Fungus, at https://texasfungus.com/. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Without clean water, our society would crumble – so what are we doing to deal with the effects of water pollution? Gary Conley, an expert in hydrology, pollution dynamics, and applied math joins the podcast to discuss his approach to tackling water pollution problems. Gary is the Chief Scientist at 2NDNATURE, a company that designs and builds software to simplify stormwater resource management, planning, and reporting. With a particular focus on urban environments, Gary and his team are dedicated to improving watershed stewardship and reducing the cost of clean water across US communities… Jump in now to learn about: 1) The two primary sources of the problems that contribute to water pollution in cities. 2) The impacts of water pollution on the overall environment. 3) What ambient water quality is, and its benefits. 4) Ways to estimate the progress of water quality improvement. To discover more about 2NDNATURE and their work, visit https://www.2ndnaturewater.com/ now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Dr. Laura Tiu joins the podcast today to discuss her work as an aquaculture specialist. Dr. Tiu is a Marine Science Extension Agent with the University of Florida Sea Grant where she plays a major role in developing sustainable offshore aquaculture and promoting environmental awareness. Dr. Tiu communicates aquaculture research to the public, and is serving as a Marine Science Extension Agent in the panhandle of Florida. Over the years, she has cultivated expertise in environmental education to make important aquatic information accessible to those who need it… You can learn more about Dr. Tiu and her work by clicking https://www.flseagrant.org/fsg-directory/dr-laura-tiu/ ! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

How are fishes and plants grown together in the same environment? How are plants grown without soil? How can both of these horticultural techniques be optimized and made profitable, even in a challenging environment? As an associate professor and researcher at Auburn University in Alabama, Daniel Wells’ work revolves primarily around controlled environment agriculture like hydroponics (greenhouses) and aquaponics in the Southeastern U.S., where the hot and humid climate poses unique challenges. Press play and learn more at https://agriculture.auburn.edu/. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

In this episode, we sit down with Zilfina Rubio Ames, an Assistant Professor and Small Fruit Extension Specialist at the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. With a focus on blueberries and other small fruits, Zilfina’s primary research goal is to improve berry production systems – specifically their yield and quality. Zilfina is on a mission to help farmers develop more efficient and sustainable production systems. ​Utilizing her knowledge of plant physiology, nutrient management practices, and cultural practices, Zilfina has made several notable contributions to the improvement of production practices in blueberries and other small fruits… Tune in now to find out: 1) What goes into efficient blueberry production. 2) The importance of maintaining the soil PH in crops. 3) The most effective blueberry harvesting methods. 4) How long does a blueberry bush take to fully produce. 5) Complementary crops to grow along with blueberries. To uncover more about Zilfina and her work, click https://site.caes.uga.edu/smallfruits/ now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

In this episode, we are joined by Desmond Layne, an expert in tree fruit horticulture extension. As the Department Head and Professor at Auburn University Horticulture, Desmond is currently fulfilling an administrative position directing research pertaining to sustainable orchard management practices. Fruit orchards contribute much to our overall food production – but how are farmers ensuring that this can continue to happen? Desmond and his research team play a critical role in uncovering answers to this question and others like it… To Learn more about Desmond Layne and his work visit https://agriculture.auburn.edu/about/directory/faculty/desmond-r-layne/ now. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Joining us today is Rich Marini, a Professor of Horticulture at Pennsylvania State University. Rich has been studying horticulture for decades, and his current research interests are in tree fruit and berry crop physiology and management practices, as well as data analysis and interpretation. Horticulture is a fascinating field that tells us so much about plants and their attributes. Rich has put in years of research in order to understand the intricate properties of fruit tree physiology, and more… You can find out more about Rich by clicking https://plantscience.psu.edu/directory/rpm12! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

In this episode, we connect with Sean M. Smukler, the Principal Investigator of the SAL lab, and Associate Professor and Chair of Agriculture and Environment in Land and Food Systems at the University of British Columbia. Sean joins the podcast today to educate us on soil health and sustainable agriculture. In an “over farming” age, our soil is being threatened. Sean is committed to ensuring that we are stewards of the natural resources we have access to – so that we can continue to utilize them for generations to come… Tune in now to discover: 1) What “cover crops” are, and how they can benefit soil health. 2) The metrics that are agreed upon when it comes to healthy soil. 3) How the nutrients in soil affect plant health and growth. What will it take to consistently regenerate soil so that agriculture can be done sustainably and efficiently? Join us now to find out! Want to learn more about Sean and his research? Click here now! This episode is sponsored by Remi, a sleep and wellness organization. For 20% off your order, use the code GUARD20 at shopremi.com today!

What can mangroves tell us about carbon sequestration? Today, Dr. Robert Twilley joins the podcast to share his thoughts on this question and other important climate-related topics… Dr. Twilley has been involved in carbon research for decades, and currently serves as the Executive Director of Louisiana Sea Grant College. Additionally, he is a Professor in the Department of Oceanography and Coastal Science at Louisiana State University. Carbon storage tells scientists a lot about how it interacts with nature – and Dr. Twilley is particularly interested in the role mangroves play in this process. What has he found in his years of interactive research of this subject? Click play to find out… Jump in to explore: 1) What a carbon budget is, and what it can tell us about mangrove ecosystems. 2) The methods used to measure carbon storage in mangroves. 3) What wood growth in mangroves can reveal about carbon sequestration. 4) The role mangrove ecosystems play in cleaning our air. Want to uncover more about Dr. Twilley and his work? Click https://css.lsu.edu/person/robert-twilley/ now!

Joining us to discuss his passion for regenerating landscapes is Gabe Brown. Gabe runs a farming operation in North Dakota called Brown’s Ranch. Here, Gabe and his family are “farming and ranching in nature’s image” in order to promote a sustainable future for generations to come. This holistic approach to agriculture sounds nice, but what does it actually take to successfully pull it off? Gabe reveals his farming strategies to the world with his educational resources in an effort to spread his knowledge as far as possible… Visit http://brownsranch.us/ to find out more about Gabe and his work with Brown’s Ranch. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Are you wondering how you can strengthen your chess skills, but don’t know where to start? Richard Jacobs, the host of the Surviving Hard Times Podcast, takes the time in this episode to discuss how he has improved his chess game – and how it has also impacted his personal and professional life… Throughout his lifetime of playing chess, Richard has distilled his advice down to 3 key points. Wondering what these tips are and how you can implement them into your own chess-playing strategies? Jump in now to find out! In this episode, Richard covers: 1) The discipline it takes to think through each and every chess move you make. 2) The ways in which chess strategies can also improve your life. 3) Resources you can take advantage of to improve your chess skills. If you play chess with the intention of developing these skills, you’ll be surprised how much more you can get out of the game overall…

Want to learn about aquaponics from an expert? Well, you’re in luck! Anthony Siccardi joins us in this episode to discuss his in-depth research surrounding this unique approach to food production. Anthony is an Assistant Professor in the Biology department at Georgia Southern University. With years of experience in his field, Anthony has made fascinating discoveries in the world of fish and plant science… Click https://cosm.georgiasouthern.edu/biology/people/faculty/anthony-siccardi/ to learn more about Anthony and his work! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Dr. Rachel Rudolph joins the podcast today to discuss her work with high tunnels and vegetable crop production. As an Extension Vegetable Specialist, Dr. Rudolph lends her knowledge of plant science to the University of Kentucky’s Department of Horticulture as an Assistant Extension Professor. Dr. Rudolph is interested in developing alternative approaches to managing issues in the field and with high tunnel systems. Utilizing her knowledge of tunnel systems, abiotic disorders, crop nutrition, and soil fertility, Dr. Rudolph is on a mission to make a real difference in the world of farming and crop production systems… Jump in now to explore: 1) The difference between horticulture and agriculture. 2) What nematodes are, and how they impact crop production. 3) Why soil solarization can be so beneficial to plant and soil health. To learn more about Dr. Rudolph and her research click https://vegcrops.ca.uky.edu/ now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

In this episode, we sit down with Kathleen Tlush. Kathleen is the Founder and CEO of Tlush Family Farm Microgreens, a small farm located near Philadelphia that grows mushrooms, raises chickens, and cultivates microgreens. Kathleen has been nurturing her passion for gardening for years now, which has led to an unwavering dedication to her practice. The more she learns about farming, the more her methods are refined – enabling her to achieve exceptional results. Click https://tlushfamilyfarm.com/ to learn more about Kathleen Tlush and her work with Tlush Family Farm. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Have you ever been curious about what it would take to live off-grid? Joining us to contribute her knowledge on this subject is Christy Darlington. Christy runs a platform called Green Living Off Grid, where she educates people on how to live healthier lives by developing homegrown vegetable gardens and utilizing renewable energy. In this episode, Christy clues us in on her gardening methods and unique approach to self-sufficiency. By exploring both hydroponics and aquaponics, we cover a wide range of proven farming techniques that are sure to intrigue you. To learn more about Christy and her work with Green Living Off Grid, visit https://greenlivingoffgrid.com/!

Can beekeeping enrich your life and the environment around you? Tanya Phillips, a Director at Texas Honey Bee Farm based in Austin, Texas would certainly say so… Tanya joins the podcast today to discuss her work as a beekeeper and educator. Her dedication to the preservation and cultivation of bee colonies has led her to not only be a central figure at Texas Honey Bee Farm, but also write Beekeeping: Everything You Need to Make Your Hive Thrive! – a book that illustrates how to foster and support healthy, vibrant colonies. Jump in now to discover: 1) Essential tips on how to cultivate your own bee colony. 2) The roles that different bees play in their respective colonies. 3) How bee preservation impacts the environment as a whole. Are you interested in taking your self-sufficiency to the next level by learning how to take care of bees? Tune in now to find out how to get started! To find out more about Texas Honey Bee Farm, click http://texashoneybeefarm.com/ now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

In this episode, we are joined by expert horticulturist Robert Westerfield. Robert is the Senior Public Service Associate for the University of Georgia, where he specializes in vegetables and woody ornamentals. Robert is one of the leading authorities in horticulture at the University of Georgia, where he develops agent consumer resources, teaches master gardener classes, and conducts agent training. In addition to these responsibilities, he also works with mass media contributing to TV, radio, and newspaper productions.

Today we connect with Rob Greenfield, an environmental activist and humanitarian that lives entirely self-sufficiently. Rob has a Youtube channel where he documents this experience and educates people about the growing, harvesting, and foraging of food. Rob wants to lead a life that promotes a more sustainable and just world. A decade ago, Rob realized how his lifestyle hurts our planet, and since then, he has changed nearly every aspect of his lifestyle – from not having a bank account to rescuing food from grocery store dumpsters…

When you head to the grocery store’s produce section, what are you looking for? The ripest bananas? The juiciest tomatoes? The largest oranges? Whatever your answer, you might be surprised to learn what dictates the taste, ripeness, and nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables. Angelos Deltsidis shares interesting details of his unique area of expertise: post-harvest ripening. Tune in to learn: What function ethylene serves (and why only some fruits and vegetables produce it) Level of ripeness vs. storage conditions: does one have a heavier hand than the other in the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables? New methods for increasing the overall quality of fruits and vegetables on the market What goes into building a bountiful fruit and organic garden harvest Interested in learning more? Press play to hear the entire conversation and visit Angelos Deltsidis – People | Horticulture (uga.edu). Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Joining us in this episode is Dr. Wolfgang Smith, a mathematician, physicist, philosopher of science, and metaphysician. Born in 1930, Dr. Smith developed his understanding of the world through the lens of philosophy and physics. Over the years, his fascination with these subjects has enabled him to apply a critical perspective to some of the world’s biggest questions. During his time as a researcher, not only has Dr. Smith met the great Albert Einstein, but he has also written many books including Physics and Vertical Causation: The End of Quantum Reality, The Quantum Enigma: Finding the Hidden Key, and Vedanta in Light of Christian Wisdom. In addition to this, he has also contributed to film documentaries – one of which is coming out soon… Join the conversation now to uncover: 1) If humans are anywhere close to figuring out the nature of reality. 2) The two things that physics consists of. 3) What a “scientistic belief” is. 4) The importance of the wisdom that bygone ages have passed on to us. Wondering what Dr. Smith has found through all of his years investigating philosophy and physics? Jump in now to find out! To learn more about Dr. Smith and his work, visit https://philos-sophia.org/ now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Cover crops have been around for over 10,000 years. It wasn’t until about 50 years ago that they started being replaced with chemical fertilizers, which many farmers saw as a more modern, efficient method. But the tide may be turning again – back to the (cover crop) roots. And this time, there may be loads of economic opportunity and environmental sustainability to gain. Press play to explore: 1) Tips for growing cash crops that will enrich soils, leading to better harvests 2) How algal blooms and drinking water problems can result from bare soils in the winter months 3) How relay cropping works and why it’s so useful Mitch Hunter is an Assistant Professor and Associate Director of the Forever Green Initiative at the University of Minnesota. This interdisciplinary initiative is dedicated to helping farmers and the environment by developing comprehensive crops, cropping systems, and supply chains for novel crops. The ultimate goal is to keep soils covered all year long, preventing fertilizer from washing into bodies of water, maintaining soil quality, and boosting overall productivity. Tune in and visit https://forevergreen.umn.edu/ to learn more. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

In this episode, we discuss all things microgreens with Donny Greens. Donny is the founder of Finest Foods, a New York-based company that provides microgreens to its community. Donny is committed to improving society’s approach to health and sustainability. He accomplishes this mission not only with Finest Foods, but also with his Youtube channel. On this platform, Donny teaches others how to grow their own microgreens businesses with insightful tips, tricks, and advice to help them succeed.

Want to get to know the uses and benefits of permaculture? Look no further than Andrew Millison. Andrew Millison is an instructor of Permaculture at Oregon State University, where he has developed an online instructional course that educates individuals across the globe. Permaculture and land regeneration is an ultra-sustainable approach to environmentalism that few have truly mastered. In this episode, you will learn about this subject from an artistic perspective – perhaps allowing you to absorb the facts and information in a new way…