Keepin it Real - The Gorham Homestead Podcast

Dawn Gorham
  • 4.9 (13)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT

This is where we talk about real life on the homestead, real food and real natural medicine.  We talk about homesteading, building community, prepping and survival from a homemaker's perspective. We do our best to provide real and practical, old-fashioned solutions to modern everyday problems with a positive outlook on the future. 

  1. MAY 11

    Homestead Chaos & The Sunset Market

    Send us Fan Mail A Tennessee homestead can feel like Little House on the Prairie one minute and a high-tech control room the next, and today I’m giving you the honest, boots-on-the-ground update from the middle of it all. It’s Mother’s Day, I’m planting the garden and packaging chickens, and I’m trying to keep my head on straight while contractors come and go and the farm keeps moving. I walk through the new idea I’m launching in June: a Sunset Farmers Market on our farm. Think string lights, food trucks, and live music, built for one reason, community. I’m not charging vendors and I’m not trying to make a profit. I want a welcoming place for neighbors to gather, support local makers, and slow down in real life, especially when so many people feel disconnected. Then we get practical with homesteading systems: tomatoes and peppers going in, weed barrier and hilled rows, and an eight-foot deer fence to protect the garden. I share what’s working with chickens, including processing updates and why I had to fence in free-ranging birds to keep the milking area clean. We also talk rotational grazing basics, resting pasture, building soil fertility with chicken tractors, and the long-game mindset it takes to improve land. On the preparedness side, I break down the Flojak hand-crank well pump install, plus a solar generator setup that can keep my milk chill tank cold during outages. I also address the pushback I got for using AI to make a flyer, why I’m taking a ChatGPT class for streamlining my small farm business, and a quick personal health update as I ease into menopause. If you enjoy real talk about homesteading, preparedness, natural living, and building community, subscribe, share this with a friend, and PLEASE leave a review so more folks can find us. Support the show TheGorhamHomestead.com

    37 min

  2. MAY 4

    Ep. 25 Homestead Update & Government Fishing Expedition

    Send us Fan Mail A government agency showed up on my property without a warrant, without consent, and without an order and I can’t just shrug that off. After a week packed with normal homestead chaos, that moment is the one still sitting heavy on my chest, because property rights and boundaries are not optional out here, especially for small farms and raw milk herd shares.  Before we get to the serious part, I’m also sharing the real day-to-day: why I’m investing in learning ChatGPT as a tool for my farm business, how I’m trying to build better systems instead of living off sticky notes, and why I’d rather support a friend’s small business than click a couple buttons at a big box store. We talk chicken processing and what it teaches you about stewardship, the difference between a kitchen garden and a preservation garden, and why May means strawberry preserving season with jam, freeze-dried strawberries, and a kitchen that’s about to get very sticky.  Then we dig into resilience, especially water security. I’m installing a FloJak manual well pump because water is non-negotiable for the household, the dairy, the cows, the chickens, and the garden. And I share my perspective on the line between lawful oversight and government overreach, why knowing your rights matters, and how food freedom connects to the future of local farms. If you value real food and practical self-reliance, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more folks can find the show. Support the show TheGorhamHomestead.com

    31 min

  3. APR 27

    Episode 24- From Stuck To Fired Up

    Send us Fan Mail You can work hard, wake up early, and still feel like your homestead business has hit a ceiling. After Nicole Sauce’s spring workshop, we came home with that rare kind of clarity that only happens when you spend real time with doers: people building businesses, tightening systems, and taking action even when life is messy. We talk honestly about what flipped for us, from how we start our mornings to how we’re thinking about the next season on our Tennessee homestead. We dig into the practical side of productivity for farm life and entrepreneurship: why “getting up early” is not the same as protecting your best hours, how journaling and reflection can beat instant task mode, and why positive self talk and words of affirmation change what you actually do. We also share the tension of perfectionism, especially in a raw milk dairy where safety and sanitation are non-negotiable, and how we’re learning to keep “best” from becoming “stuck.” Then we zoom out to business growth and regenerative agriculture. With the dairy maxed out on pasture, we’re building smarter income streams through pastured poultry, beehives and honey, organic glyphosate-free baked goods, eggs, and other local farm products. The heart of it, though, is teaching: our homestead renaissance camp for teenage girls, real food skills like sourdough and herbal remedies, and the mindset shift that happens when young people finally understand local food versus convenience food. If you’re building something and feel stuck, this one will light a fire. Subscribe for more real-food homesteading and natural living, share this with a friend who needs momentum, and leave a review with the one habit you’re changing this week. Support the show TheGorhamHomestead.com

    25 min

  4. APR 20

    Ep 23. I Didn't Quit- I just needed to live it

    Send us Fan Mail I disappeared for two years, and I didn’t mean to. Life just hit hard, fast, and nonstop and I needed to live it before I could tell it with any honesty. When I logged into my podcast host and saw people were still downloading the show every week, it stopped me cold. That’s when I knew this story matters, and that I needed to come back and say thank you.   The last two years have been a crash course in homestead life and small business reality. I’ve been building our Tennessee dairy from the ground up, learning through mistakes, small wins, and a few proud moments that only come after a lot of grit. At the same time, my mom was diagnosed with MS and went through a major crisis that left her unable to walk or care for herself. She lived with me for almost a year while we worked toward rehab and getting her back to living independently, and I was trying to care for her while keeping the farm and the dairy moving forward.  I also share why this podcast isn’t about “building a podcast business” for me. It’s an audio record of real food, raw milk work, natural living, and the choices we make out here, in my own voice, so my kids and grandkids can someday understand what these seasons felt like. Coming up, I’ll unpack the unannounced Department of Agriculture visit, the safety protocols we use to produce safe raw milk, how we streamline and automate farm tasks, and what it looks like to bring on a trusted helper who now lives on the farm. If you’re walking through your own hard season, hit subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find Keeping It Real. Support the show TheGorhamHomestead.com

    11 min

  5. 10/24/2024

    Ep. 22 - Tee & Me - Homestead Challenges & Winter Preparation

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when life throws a series of unexpected events your way, and how do you adapt to maintain stability on a homestead? We share our personal journey through family milestones, particularly a recent wedding, while simultaneously navigating the challenges of my mother's health as she transitions to living with us. Amidst these personal shifts, the homestead faced a severe drought, forcing us to feed hay earlier than anticipated. However, the rains have finally come, offering relief and hope as we work to restore our routine and prepare for the colder months ahead. Our commitment to sustaining our homestead's productivity is more crucial than ever, pushing us to diversify our ventures and support community projects. Join us as we explore the excitement and trials of raising 130 Jumbo Cornish X-Rocks meat birds with neighbors and the joy of discovering the deliciousness of Jumbo Pekin Ducks. We're also planning for expansion, with the addition of American Bresse chickens and the prospect of Emden geese, all while gearing up for Thanksgiving and the changes to the Self-Reliance Festival in 2025. In the spirit of resilience, we delve into winter preparations and the wisdom of sustainable living, inspired by a vibrant 95-year-old's unconventional health philosophy. Our journey includes participating in events like the Kentucky Sustainable Living gathering, where we share insights on topics like family milk cows. The recent catastrophic weather events have humbled us and reminded us of our purpose. Our focus remains on community support and readiness. As we continue to grow and adapt, we're reminded of our humble beginnings and the ongoing journey toward a self-reliant and fulfilling life on the homestead. Today's sponsor: Hamilton Gorham & Duncan,  PLLC Located in Bellevue, TN at 161 Belle Forest Circle. 615-467-3200.  Go see attorneys, Tee Gorham or Jad Duncan for all your family's legal needs. Tell them you heard about them on this podcast! Support the show TheGorhamHomestead.com

    39 min

  6. 08/15/2024

    Ep. 21 - Farmers vs. Homesteaders - Unpacking the Unspoken Rivalry with Stephanie Tallent

    Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered about the real dynamics between traditional farmers and modern homesteaders? Join me, Dawn Gorham, along with my special guest Stephanie Tallent, as we uncover the deep-seated tensions and profound shifts within the world of agriculture. We promise you'll gain valuable insights into how corporate influence has shaped contemporary farming practices, and how homesteaders are pushing back with a holistic, self-sufficient approach. We also discuss how homesteaders might want to check our attitudes at the door.  Stephanie and I also dive into the fascinating yet contentious world of raw milk farming. You'll hear personal stories that highlight the evolving perceptions of raw milk, the contrasting realities between small-scale and industrial dairy operations, and the unique regulatory challenges faced by farmers. We discuss the growing direct-to-consumer demand for raw milk and the philosophical shift towards a more personalized approach to food and healthcare. Lastly, we explore the diverse ideologies within the homesteading community, touching on everything from natural and herbal methodologies to more conventional practices. We talk about the critical importance of learning from experienced farmers, the need for preparedness in emergency situations, and share exciting updates from our own farms. This episode is packed with real-life experiences, practical tips, and heartfelt reflections that you won't want to miss! Support the show TheGorhamHomestead.com

    56 min

  7. 08/08/2024

    Ep. 20 Resilient Living - Preparing for the Unpredictable

    Send us Fan Mail Have you ever wondered what it takes to ensure the safety of raw milk on a homestead? Join me on Keepin' it Real as I share my journey of learning to draw blood from our cows for regular disease testing, and our excitement as we await the A2 status results. You'll also get a close look at the challenges of managing maturing turkeys and a tough encounter with a steer and a permanent weaning ring. This episode is packed with valuable insights on resilient living and the practical steps you can take to prepare for unpredictable times. Building a new farm community can be daunting, but I've discovered the importance of a strong support network and financial resilience. I recount my personal experience of moving to a new area and the immediate need to connect with neighbors. Together, we formed a tight-knit community with diverse skills that offer emotional and practical support. Additionally, I delve into the necessity of having an emergency fund, diversifying income streams, and possessing barterable goods. By fostering these relationships and financial strategies, we create a more secure environment for ourselves and our loved ones. Our health and preparedness become even more crucial as we age. In this episode, I explore how strength training and daily stretching can prevent muscle loss and injuries, especially for those over 50. Drawing from my experience managing thoracic outlet syndrome, I offer stretching and stress management techniques. We also discuss the importance of emergency planning, food security through a well-stocked pantry, and the peace of mind that comes from being prepared. Finally, I share a heartfelt story about my southern upbringing, emphasizing the values of love, faith, and pride that shape a resilient and grateful lifestyle. Support the show TheGorhamHomestead.com

    33 min

  8. 07/25/2024

    The Turnkey Life vs The Fixer Upper

    Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered why the fixer-upper life could be your ticket to a fulfilling and resilient partnership? Join us on this episode of the Gorham Homestead podcast. First I share our latest homesteading adventures, from grappling with a major PVC pipe leak to celebrating a bumper crop of tomatoes. While we battle pests threatening our cucumbers and squash, we're also planning a special live cooking session with Nicole, featuring unique preparations of cow tongue. Plus, our barnyard is buzzing with an unexpected 17 ducks, and I outline our plans for processing some of our Muscovy ducks while preserving a few as breeding pairs and lovable pets. We also delve into the invaluable life lessons that come from embracing the fixer-upper journey, particularly for young couples just starting out. There's a stark contrast between the immediate, ready-made lives many young people envision and the reality of what their parents built over decades. I emphasize the growth, problem-solving skills, and sense of accomplishment that come from working toward goals together from scratch. Whether it's about fixing a leak or harvesting your crops, the journey is rich with rewards. With perseverance and determination, you'll find that everything falls into place, making the hard work worthwhile. Don't forget to connect with us on social media and check out our website for more insights and resources. Keep it real and remember the journey is usually more important than the destination. Sponsor for today: Hamilton, Gorham & Duncan PLLC  Your full service family law firm.  Visit HGDLegal.com  Support the show TheGorhamHomestead.com

    31 min
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4.9
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

This is where we talk about real life on the homestead, real food and real natural medicine.  We talk about homesteading, building community, prepping and survival from a homemaker's perspective. We do our best to provide real and practical, old-fashioned solutions to modern everyday problems with a positive outlook on the future. 

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