Farm Life Psych with Steph Schmidt

Steph Schmidt
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Farm Life Psych with Steph Schmidt

Navigate farm, family and life at "Farm Life Psych with Steph Schmidt" – it's all about the ups and downs of farming, but with a psychological spin. I'm Steph Schmidt, juggling life as a psychologist, farmer, wife, and mum. I'll be chatting about the nitty-gritty of farm life, how our brains handle it, and how to make it all a bit easier (when we can). Think of this podcast as your go-to spot for stories and lessons from life on the land, accessible and do-able wellbeing tips, and chats with folks who get the farming life, sprinkled with insights on how to keep your head in the game. Whether you’re out in the fields, taking care of animals, or just curious about life on the farm with a mental health twist, you’ve found the right place. Keen to join the ride and make farm life a bit brighter? Hit subscribe to "Farm Life Psych with Steph Schmidt" and let’s start this journey together. Ready to change the way you think about farming? Subscribe today Connect with me: www.stephschmidt.com.au/podcast LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephschmidtfarmlifepsych/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stephschmidt.farmlifepsych/ Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/stephschmidtfarmlifepsych stephschmidt.substack.com

  1. FEB 13

    A quick self check in - Are You Coping or Just Pushing Through?

    It’s been a long, hot minute since I last recorded Farm Life Psych, but we’re here now. In this episode, I’m checking in—not just with myself, but with you too. If you’ve been feeling the weight of dry conditions, long harvests, or just the constant juggle of farm, family, and life, this episode is for you. I’ll share some of the struggles and lessons from the past few months, as well as a simpleself-check-in exercise to help you pause, reflect, and take small steps forward. Because when life feels relentless, sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simply stop and notice. 🎧Tune in to hear: ✔️ A personal update on farm stress, mental load, and navigating burnout ✔️ A simpleself-check-in exercise to reconnect with yourself ✔️ Why we often avoid checking in—and what happens when we finally do ✔️ How to assess what’sworking andwhat’s not in your daily habits ✔️ Small, doable actions to help you manage stress and build resilience 🛑Take a moment to pause, check in, and take one small action for yourself today. 💬Let’s continue the conversation! 📩What’s one thing you noticed when you checked in with yourself today? Send me a message on: 📍Instagram & Facebook:@stephschmidt.farmlifepsych 📍LinkedIn:Stephanie Schmidt 📍Email:steph@stephschmidt.com.au 💡Got a tricky challenge or a question for the podcast? Submit it for the ‘Ask Steph’ segment here:stephschmidt.com.au/asksteph. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend or your partner—and don’t forget to follow or subscribe! 🎙️✨ Get full access to Paddock Lessons at stephschmidt.substack.com/subscribe

    20 min

  2. 10/17/2024

    13 - Managing Farm Life Stress: Finding Your Feet and Dealing with Drought

    Join Steph Schmidt: Farmer, Psychologist, Farm wief and Mum based in South Australia. In this episode, Steph navigates through the ups and downs of farm life while offering valuable advice on mental well-being. She shares a "Find Your Feet" grounding techniques and tackle an "Ask Steph" question regarding managing the stress of working with farmers during a drought while living on a farm. Key Topics: 1. Introduction to Grounding Techniques (00:00:00 - 00:02:11): - Importance of taking moments to ground yourself in everyday life via focused breathing, using your senses, or feeling your feet on the ground. 2. Life on the Farm (00:02:11 - 00:05:17): - The complexities of dealing with much-needed but potentially damaging rainfall. - The emotional rollercoaster of weather impacts on crops and property. 3. Finding Your Focus (00:05:17 - 00:06:06): - Overcoming scattered thoughts post-school holidays and learning to prioritize tasks effectively. 4. A Grounding Exercise (00:06:06 - 00:09:36): - Step-by-step guide to a three-minute grounding exercise focusing on feet and body awareness. - Encouragement to incorporate this practice into daily life and observe its benefits. 6. Ask Steph: Managing Farm Life and Work Boundaries (00:11:13 - 00:24:16): - Tackling a listener's question about handling the emotional and logistical challenges of farm life during drought conditions. - Practical advice on managing household water restrictions, laundry logistics, and maintaining emotional boundaries between work and home. - Importance of self-care and seeking professional supervision in mental health roles. 7. Maintaining Balance and Well-Being (00:24:16 - 00:26:38): - Emphasizing the need for self-care to ensure the ability to support others effectively. - Discussion on the ongoing challenges and stresses of farm life and how to manage them. Share the Love: - Share your thoughts and experiences with Steph at [Email: steph@stephschmidt.com.au]. - Connect with Steph on social media: - Instagram: @stephschmidt.farmlifepsych - LinkedIn: Steph Schmidt Quote of the Episode: > "We can't give from an empty cup. So we can't keep giving to our clients, keep giving to people around us if we are not actually taking that time in caring and taking care of ourselves as well." Resources: - Reach out for individual support if needed: - Consult with your GP or a mental health practitioner - Grounding exercises and how to incorporate them into daily life **Listener Question Submission:** - Have a question for the "Ask Steph" segment? Submit your queries to HERE for a chance to be featured in future episodes. Thank you for tuning in to the Farm Life Psych Podcast with Steph Schmidt. Stay grounded and take care! 🎙️🌾 Get full access to Paddock Lessons at stephschmidt.substack.com/subscribe

    27 min

  3. 10/10/2024

    Episode 12: What's your Kryptonite (another mini-sode)

    Following on from the mini-sode of Episode 11 - this week we explore the things that get us stuck. Exploring Catalysts and Kryptonites in Farm Life Psych In this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, farm wife, and mum, explores the idea of "kryptonites" - those little things that get us stuck. She shares her own experiences of feeling stuck and out of control, particularly during busy school holidays. She discusses the concept of identifying 'kryptonites'—the elements that lead to feelings of being stuck—and encourages listeners to notice these feelings to better manage them. Steph also shares listener feedback about personal catalysts that aid in well-being, emphasizing awareness and connection to the environment. The episode focuses on reflecting on emotional responses and making intentional choices to cope with challenges. Steph invites listeners to engage in discussions about their own 'kryptonites' and experiment with self-awareness over the week. Get full access to Paddock Lessons at stephschmidt.substack.com/subscribe

    10 min

  4. 10/03/2024

    School Holiday Mini-Sode: What's Your Catalyst?

    Finding Your Catalyst: Enhancing Well-being Amidst the Farm Life JuggleIn this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, farm wife, and mother, introduces the concept of 'mini sodes' in the spirit of Bluey. She explores strategies to help navigate the challenges of farm life and tough times, focusing on identifying personal catalysts for improving mental health and well-being. Steph emphasizes the importance of finding that one activity, such as exercise or good sleep, that can trigger positive changes in other aspects of life. She encourages listeners to experiment with different catalysts and share their experiences on social media, fostering a community of ideas and support. 00:00 Introduction to Farm Life Psych 00:42 Navigating Tough Times 02:16 The Concept of a Catalyst 03:25 Personal Catalysts for Well-being 04:50 Finding Your Own Catalyst 06:04 Conclusion and Call to Action Get full access to Paddock Lessons at stephschmidt.substack.com/subscribe

    7 min

  5. 09/26/2024

    I'm having the thought that...Tools for managing the mental load

    In this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, wife, and mum, delves into the mental load and stress faced by farmers, especially during challenging seasons. Steph introduces the concept of cognitive defusion to help listeners get some space from their overwhelming thoughts and shares practical tools such as the 'I'm having the thought that' exercise and the leaves on the stream analogy. The episode also addresses an "Ask Steph" question about staying sober while living alone in rural areas, highlighting the importance of resources like Sober in the Country and techniques like urge surfing. Steph concludes by encouraging self-care, open communication, and compassion, and invites listeners to subscribe, share, and leave reviews to help spread the word about the podcast. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 02:41 Checking In and Managing Stress 07:12 Mindfulness and Cognitive Defusion 19:36 Ask Steph: Staying Sober in Isolation 27:54 Final Thoughts and Outro Submit an Ask Steph Question Get full access to Paddock Lessons at stephschmidt.substack.com/subscribe

    31 min

  6. 09/19/2024

    It's hard because it is: Practicing acceptance during tough times on the farm

    In this episode of Farm Life Psych, Steph Schmidt shares her firsthand experiences and practical strategies for managing stress in the challenging farming environment. She explores the importance of acknowledging emotions and provides insights into the practice of radical acceptance. Steph underscores the impact of stress on relationships and emphasizes the importance of repairing ruptured connections. She also offers actionable tips for staying present and coping with difficult situations. Tune in for a deep dive into mental resilience and practical ways to navigate tough times. Get little reminders in your inbox: www.stephschmidt.com.au/littlerocks 00:00 Understanding Emotions in Difficult Situations 00:22 Introduction to Farm Life Psych Episode 00:37 Current Challenges in South Australian Farming 02:56 Personal Experiences and Observations 04:38 Managing Stress and Relationships 10:33 The Concept of Radical Acceptance 16:12 Practical Strategies for Coping 23:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 24:48 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Get full access to Paddock Lessons at stephschmidt.substack.com/subscribe

    26 min

  7. 09/12/2024

    Navigating Mental Health in Farming: Recognising the signs and seeking support

    In this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt—a psychologist, farmer, farm wife, and mum—discusses the intricacies of recognizing and managing mental health challenges in the farming community. She explores symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, offering listeners insight into identifying these signs in themselves or loved ones. Steph provides practical steps for seeking help, including utilizing resources like Lifeline, online self-assessments, and consulting with GPs. Emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness on Suicide Prevention Day and R U OK? Day, she also touches on the heightened mental health risks among rural and farming populations. Steph encourages listeners to prepare by saving crisis numbers and familiarizing themselves with mental health tools and resources. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating the emotional ups and downs of farm life. Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is general in nature and intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek appropriate guidance for their individual circumstances from a qualified professional. Resources and links mentioned in this episode: ⁠https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/⁠ ⁠https://www.lifeline.org.au/⁠ ⁠https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support⁠ ⁠https://kidshelpline.com.au/⁠ https://www.mumspace.com.au/ ⁠My list of psychologists who understand farming⁠ Connect with me: Sign up for Little Rocks Weekly Reminders -⁠ www.stephschmidt.com.au/littlerocks⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephschmidtfarmlifepsych/⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/stephschmidt.farmlifepsych⁠ 00:00 Recognizing Signs of Mental Health Issues 00:41 Introduction to Farm Life Psych 01:28 Suicide Prevention and Farmer Mental Health 06:29 Understanding Stress and Mental Health 13:18 Self-Assessment and Online Resources 17:56 Seeking Professional Help 23:49 Utilizing Helplines and Support Networks 31:06 Conclusion and Next Steps Get full access to Paddock Lessons at stephschmidt.substack.com/subscribe

    34 min

  8. 08/29/2024

    I'm Back!! Embracing the Farm Life Juggle: Updates, Reflections, and Self-Care Strategies

    In this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, farm wife, and mum, returns after a break to share insights on balancing farm life, family, and personal well-being. Steph reflects on her busy months, the concept of the four-burner analogy for managing life's priorities, and the importance of self-care. She discusses her approach to not doing it all at once, managing social media, and engaging in physical activity as a means of maintaining mental health. The episode also previews future topics and encourages listeners to connect and share their own experiences. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:43 Meet Steph Schmidt 01:09 Podcast Update and Personal Reflections 02:18 Managing Farm Life and Social Media 08:52 The Four Burner Analogy 13:54 Upcoming Episodes and Topics 19:19 Call for Feedback and Support 21:37 Conclusion and Farewell Got a burning question? Ask Steph Here Sign up for Little Rocks Reminders in your inbox - www.stephschmidt.com.au/littlerocks Connect with me: Instagram LinkedIn Get full access to Paddock Lessons at stephschmidt.substack.com/subscribe

    23 min
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About

Navigate farm, family and life at "Farm Life Psych with Steph Schmidt" – it's all about the ups and downs of farming, but with a psychological spin. I'm Steph Schmidt, juggling life as a psychologist, farmer, wife, and mum. I'll be chatting about the nitty-gritty of farm life, how our brains handle it, and how to make it all a bit easier (when we can). Think of this podcast as your go-to spot for stories and lessons from life on the land, accessible and do-able wellbeing tips, and chats with folks who get the farming life, sprinkled with insights on how to keep your head in the game. Whether you’re out in the fields, taking care of animals, or just curious about life on the farm with a mental health twist, you’ve found the right place. Keen to join the ride and make farm life a bit brighter? Hit subscribe to "Farm Life Psych with Steph Schmidt" and let’s start this journey together. Ready to change the way you think about farming? Subscribe today Connect with me: www.stephschmidt.com.au/podcast LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephschmidtfarmlifepsych/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stephschmidt.farmlifepsych/ Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/stephschmidtfarmlifepsych stephschmidt.substack.com

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