My Self Reliance Podcast

Shawn James
  • 5.0 (33)
  • WILDERNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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.

  1. 01/29/2024

    19. Finding Meaning in Life: Family and Outdoor Adventures with Jim Baird

    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

    1h 12m

  2. 01/22/2024

    18. Guide to Buying Cheap Land for Financial Freedom

    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. 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

    36 min

  3. 01/19/2024

    17. Preparedness: Affordable First Steps for Beginner Preppers

    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

    20 min

  4. 01/16/2024

    16. How to Start Gardening for Self-Sufficiency with Huw Richards

    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 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

    1h 23m

  5. 01/09/2024

    15. Turning Passion into Business and Living Nomadically

    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/ 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

    1h 8m

  6. 01/03/2024

    14. Preparedness: Thriving in a World of Uncertainty, with Canadian Prepper

    Prepare to have your perspective on preparedness reshaped as we sit down with Nate from Canadian Prepper, a voice of reason and guidance in the world of survivalism and self-reliance. Amid the chaos of a global pandemic, Nate's insights on the surge in demand for trustworthy information over basic survival skills and gear reviews underscore the complexities that content creators face, especially when navigating the realms of censorship and demonetization. His dedication to providing authentic analysis is a beacon for those seeking to understand and adapt to the uncertainty of our times. Venturing further into the heart of readiness, our chat traverses the landscape of the Bugout Roll, Nate's invention catering to the organized prepper. Yet, it's not just about the gear; it's about the evolution from simple emergency bags to the grand vision of a self-sustainable homestead, a testament to the depth of the prepping community's journey. We confront the post-pandemic proliferation of exploitative companies, the stigma of prepping, and the indispensable role of community in forging a bulwark against burgeoning global threats like climate change and cyber warfare. Rounding out our discussion, we tackle the societal vulnerabilities laid bare by the pandemic, emphasizing the necessity of preparedness for personal freedoms and societal resilience. Nate's perspective on the preparedness of the wealthy versus the resourcefulness of indigenous communities offers a profound take on global instability and technological advancements. Our exploration doesn't just inform—it empowers you to take ownership of your preparedness in a world where personal responsibility is the cornerstone of collective security. Join us for this profound episode that will leave you contemplating the role of preparedness in an unpredictable future. Canadian Prepper Links YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@CanadianPrepper Website canadianpreparedness.com Facebook facebook.com/Canadianpreparedness Instagram instagram.com/canadian_prepper/?hl=en TikTok 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

    1h 42m

  7. 11/28/2023

    13. Materialism to Minimalism: The Road to a Nomadic Life

    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

    1h 18m

  8. 11/22/2023

    12. How to Achieve Financial Independence: Real Estate Investments and Debt Management

    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

    28 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
33 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Shawn James
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2024
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 My Self Reliance Podcast
  • Show Website
    My Self Reliance Podcast