Sharing Farm Stories and Parenting on the Road with Olivia Schoentrup

In this episode of Barnyard Language, hosts Caite and Arlene welcome Olivia, a seasoned cattle farmer and now a full-time travel vlogger. Olivia and her husband have transitioned from owning and operating a farm in Indiana to living life on the road in a 44-foot fifth-wheel RV, traveling to farms all across the United States. This episode dives into their decision to sell their farm, the logistics of RV living with small children and a large dog, and the incredible stories they have gathered from farmers nationwide.

Olivia shares her captivating journey from conventional farming to embracing new, regenerative agricultural practices. The episode is packed with insights into the challenges and rewards of nomadic life, including the importance of breaking free from traditional farming stigmas and being open to change. Listeners will learn about unique farming techniques, the importance of soil health, and how the family manages travel logistics with young children. Olivia's experiences aim to inspire and educate about the diverse approaches within American agriculture.

Follow Olivia Online

• https://www.instagram.com/breaking_new_roots/
• https://www.facebook.com/BreakingNewRoots
• https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingNewRoots

We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air.

 You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.

If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at [email protected].

Key Takeaways:

• Adaptability in Agriculture: Olivia discusses the significance of being open to new methods in farming, highlighting how farmers can maintain their mental and physical well-being by adopting flexible practices.
• Family Dynamics on the Road: The episode explores how Olivia and her husband manage living and traveling in an RV with their young children, emphasizing the benefits and challenges of a fluid, unstructured lifestyle.
• Regenerative Practices: Insights into unique agricultural techniques, such as using tile lines to manage water resources and the concept of daily rotational grazing, are discussed.
• Staying Present: Olivia talks about the importance of being present and adapting to immediate needs, whether that be stopping frequently on travel days or fostering independence in children.
• Balancing Homesteading and Traveling: The episode illustrates how Olivia's family manages to balance their farming roots with the desire to explore and learn from different farming communities.