Explore every episode of the podcast Barn & Soul by Dalby Farm
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Barn & Soul Podcast - Episode 25: Children of the Farm: What Animals Teach the Next Generation
š Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.
Thereās something timeless about a childās first encounter with a farm animal. That wide-eyed look, the tentative reach, or the giggle when a curious goat or duck gets close. On the surface, these moments feel like simple fun, but research shows they carry profound lessons in empathy, patience, and respect. In this episode, we explore the incredible ways early exposure to animals shapes childrenās emotional, social, and cognitive development. From observing boundaries in the goat enclosure to offering treats with care, toddlers are learning about patience, responsibility, and compassion. These are lessons that last a lifetime. We also discuss the importance of heritage breeds like our Arapawa goats and American Chinchilla rabbits as tangible connections to conservation, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship. Plus, we look at what the world is learning about farm-based education, care farms, and nature-focused learning programs that nurture the next generation. Whether youāre a parent, educator, or animal lover, this episode offers insight into how farms can serve as classrooms for lifeās most important lessons.
Fast Facts ā¢ Children who interact regularly with animals show up to 30% higher empathy scores by age six (Frontiers in Psychology, 2023). ā¢ Exposure to animals before age ten correlates with greater environmental awareness and compassion in adulthood (University of Cambridge, 2021). ā¢ Caring for animals increases self-regulation and patience in preschool-aged children, measurable even after short-term exposure (Journal of Applied Developmental Science, 2022). ā¢ Farms and petting zoos act as āmicro-ecosystems of learning,ā teaching respect for nature through sensory engagement and gentle boundary-setting (Early Childhood Research Quarterly, 2023). ā¢ Sixty-nine percent of parents feel their children spend too little time outdoors, but eighty-four percent would enroll them in nature-based programs if available (National Wildlife Federation, 2024). ā¢ Children engaged in animal-based education before age six show higher social responsibility, increased resilience, and a forty percent greater likelihood of volunteering or donating to environmental causes as adults (University of Denver Institute for Human-Animal Connection, 2024).
š Resources and BibliographyFrontiers in Psychology. (2023). Early Animal Interaction and Empathy Development in Children. Link University of Cambridge. (2021). Childhood Exposure to Animals and Environmental Awareness. Link Journal of Applied Developmental Science. (2022). Short-Term Animal Care Activities and Preschool Self-Regulation. Link Early Childhood Research Quarterly. (2023). Farms as Micro-Ecosystems of Learning. Link National Wildlife Federation. (2024). Survey on Children, Outdoor Time, and Nature-Based Programs. Link University of Denver, Institute for Human-Animal Connection. (2024). Longitudinal Study of Early Animal-Based Education. Link
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm
Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
š Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 24: āThe Cost of Care: A Personal Reckoning withĀ Animals, Land and Lifeā
In this episode, I donāt stick to the usual form. Iām speaking honestly about the heartbreak and discouragement I feel watching the way humans treat animals, land, and the natural world. From the relentless development of open space in Massachusetts and across the East Coast, to the industrial pressures on the meat industry, to the flood of plastics that choke our ecosystems, itās a lot to witness.
I explore what it feels like to care deeply for creatures with nervous systems and feelings, only to watch them ignored, exploited, or displaced. I share hard numbers about land loss and development, the impact on animals, and why it all feels overwhelming right now. This episode is a cry for help, a candid look at environmental grief, and a reminder that these feelings are valid.
If youāve ever felt despair looking at the state of the planet, or wondered how small farms and local stewardship fit into a bigger picture, this one is for you. Itās not solutions-focused, itās honesty-focused.
USDA NASS (2022). Census of Agriculture general portal and demographic tables (includes data on producers, gender, age, and farm characteristics). https://www.nass.usda.gov/AgCensus/
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (2024). Massachusetts Climate Report Card: Natural and Working Lands Sector. https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-environmental-protection
Research and scholarly articles Penn State University (2024). Coverage of study on the ātriple burdenā of invisible labor as a major stressor for farm women. Search ātriple burden farm women Penn Stateā via Penn State News MDPI, NĆŗƱez, P. G. (2020). Rural womenās invisible work in census and state records: Recognition and visibility. Land 9(3), 92. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-445X/9/3/92
Environmental and land-focused resources Mass Audubon (2015). Losing Ground: Open Space in Massachusetts. https://www.massaudubon.org/our-conservation-work/land-conservation/losing-ground
Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC). Massachusetts land parcel database, parcel-by-parcel development data. https://www.mapc.org/
Gulf of Maine Research Institute (2013). State of the Gulf of Maine: Coastal Land Use and Development. https://www.gulfofmaine.org
Plastic and pollution context National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Marine Debris Program overview. https://marinedebris.noaa.gov/
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.
Ā
Welcome back to Barn & Soul! Iām Kendall, and today weāre tackling a big question: Who decides which animals get to survive?
Here at Dalby Farm in Scituate, MA, we care for rare and endangered livestockāanimals most people have never even heard of. And thatās the problem. In this episode, we dive into the overlooked world of heritage breeds, from the pigs nearly eaten to extinction to the goats the world forgot... until now.
Youāll learn: š Why some breeds get conservation fundingāand others donāt š The shocking truth about Americaās dairy cow gene pool š§¬ How losing livestock diversity puts our entire food system at risk š Why storiesānot just scienceādecide which animals survive š§” And what YOU can do to help, even if you donāt live on a farm
These animals are more than curiositiesātheyāre history, resilience, and genetic insurance for the future. Letās talk about why saving rare farm animals matters now more than ever.
š Drop a comment and tell us: Have you ever met a rare breed before?
They once dotted every rural roadānow, small farms are vanishing from our landscapes and our lives. What happened?
In this episode of Barn & Soul, we journey through the history of Americaās small farmsāfrom the golden age of agriculture to the rise of industrial farmingāand take a closer look at how towns like Scituate, MA, were shaped by (and now struggle to hold on to) their agricultural roots.
You'll learn:
š¾ The surprising statistics behind the decline of small farms š” How suburban sprawl, rising land prices, and global markets contributed š Why backyard chickens and farm content are actually part of a hopeful shift š The story of Dalby Farmās resilienceāand what it represents for the future
Whether youāre a homesteader, heritage breed enthusiast, or someone who just misses the sound of chickens down the road, this episode is a tribute to the past, present, and future of small-scale farming.
Fast Fact: In 1935, there were 6.8 million farms in the U.S. Today? Just 1.9 million. Letās talk about what that means.
š§ Listen now and help us honor whatās rare, resilient, and rooted in community.
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.Ā Some survivors donāt wear capesāthey wear hooves, horns, and silver-tipped fur.
In this episode of Barn & Soul, we uncover the untold stories of rare livestock breeds that defied extinction. From wild pigs marooned on Ossabaw Island to the hardy goats of New Zealandās Arapawa Islandāand even a rabbit breed saved by everyday backyard heroesāthese animals are more than just rare. Theyāre resilient.
You'll learn:
š The 400-year tale of the Ossabaw Island hog š How Arapawa goats survived isolation and eradication š Why the American Chinchilla rabbit nearly vanishedāand who brought it back š Why genetic diversity in livestock matters more than ever š How industrial agriculture threatens the traits that could save us
With fewer than 2,000 individuals left in some cases, these breeds carry the last traces of genetic adaptability our future may depend on.
This episode is both a celebration and a call to actionābecause preserving rare breeds isnāt about nostalgiaā¦ itās about survival.
š§ Tune in to learn how you can help write the next chapter.
šļø Barn & Soul Podcast: Episode 12 ā "How Modern Farming Threatens Rare Breeds (and What We Can Do About It)"
Today, 95% of the world's food comes from just 30 species of plants and animals. Behind that staggering number is a quiet crisis: modern farming is stripping away the genetic diversity that once helped humanity survive droughts, disease outbreaks, and food shortages.
In this thought-provoking episode, we dig deep into how industrial monocultures, GMOs, and high-yield livestock systems are reshaping our food landscapeāand not always for the better. You'll hear how the rise of efficiency-based agriculture has endangered rare breeds, weakened our food security, and even made us more vulnerable to climate change.
But itās not all bad news. Weāll also explore how heritage farmers, conservation groups, and even everyday consumers are fighting backāpreserving biodiversity, supporting resilient food systems, and safeguarding our future.
If youāve ever wondered why places like Dalby Farm existāor how your choices can make a real differenceāthis is an episode you wonāt want to miss.
āØ Topics Covered:
Why monocultures dominate modern farming (and why thatās risky)
The hidden costs of industrial livestock breeding
How rare breeds hold the key to climate resilience
What heritage farming looks like today
Actionable steps you can take to help preserve biodiversity
Every rare breed saved is a future possibility preserved. Letās fight for a future thatās as rich, diverse, and resilient as the land itself.
š§ Listen nowāand donāt forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 11 - Terms of Endangerment: What You Need To Know About "Rare Breeds"
šWhen you hear the word "endangered," you might think of tigers or polar bears. But across quiet pastures and small farms, rare livestock breeds are vanishing ā sometimes faster than wildlife. In this episode, we're digging into the lesser-known side of conservation: saving endangered farm animals.
š¹Weāll explore: -Why these breeds are disappearing -How organizations classify and protect them -What it takes to rescue a heritage breed...And why it matters more than ever for food security, culture, and sustainability.
šAt Dalby Farm, every Arapawa goat, every Ossabaw pig, and every Shetland sheep carries a piece of living history.Saving them means saving the rare, the resilient, and a part of ourselves.Ā Thanks for being here ā and for caring about the rare and wonderful things in life.
Ā šæ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe if you believe in giving endangered farm breeds and family farms like ours a fighting chance! #BarnAndSoul #HeritageBreeds #FarmConservation #RareBreeds #DalbyFarm
š Cited Sources:
The Livestock Conservancy, Conservation Priority List 2024
UN FAO, State of the World's Animal Genetic Resources (2007, 2013)
American Livestock Breeds Conservancy publications
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm
š Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
š BONUS EPISODE #2: Endangered but Extraordinary ā Meet the Arapawa Island Goat | Barn & Soul Podcast
In this special Barn & Soul Bonus Episode, weāre diving into the story of one of the worldās rarest goat breeds: the Arapawa Island Goat. From mysterious 18th-century origins to their role in modern-day conservation, these unique animals are living pieces of historyāand weāre honored to call a few of them family here at Dalby Farm. šæ Fast facts ā Fewer than 300 purebred Arapawas exist globally ā Descended from goats left by Captain James Cook in the 1770s ā Critically endangered as listed by The Livestock Conservancy ā Naturally hardy, intelligent, and adapted to rugged terrain
š§ In this episode: š§ The origin story of the Arapawa Goat š The Captain Cook connection and centuries of survival š¾ Their role at Dalby Farm as conservation ambassadors š” What makes them different from commercial goat breeds š” Care tips for Arapawas and goats in general š Why their preservation matters for biodiversity and future farming Whether youāre a goat lover, a rare breed enthusiast, or someone passionate about sustainable agriculture, this episode will leave you inspired by what can be saved when people care deeply enough to try.
š Episode references include: * Arapawa Goat Breeders Association of New Zealand * "Captain Cook in New Zealand" by John Cawte Beaglehole, Oxford University Press (1967) * Henson, K. (2008). "The Genetic Diversity of Arapawa Goats." Journal of Animal Genetics. * Rowe, B. (1993). "Saving the Arapawa Goat." New Zealand Rare Breeds Society.
š Support Our Work Visit our Country Store ā over 50% of every purchase directly supports the care of endangered animals like the Arapawa Goat. š£ Stay Connected š Subscribe for more bonus episodes & rare breed spotlights šø Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @DalbyFarm šļø Full Barn & Soul podcast episodes drop Wednesdays at 9 PM EST š Thanks for watching and helping us preserve the rare and wonderful things in life. Until next time, take careāand donāt forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm
Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
...Or you can always shop for the animals instead! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/animals-shop
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 10: Love, Loss, and Legacy: Grieving Our Animals šØ Disclaimer: This episode discusses the emotional topic of animal loss and may be difficult for some listeners.
Ā šļøGrieving an animal is a deep and powerful experienceāyet so often, itās minimized or misunderstood. In this episode, I open up about the reality of losing beloved farm companions, from goats to doves, and how these losses have shaped both my life and the philosophy of Dalby Farm. Weāll explore real psychological research that explains why animal grief feels just as profound as human grief, and weāll reflect on how moving forward with love honors the animals weāve lost. Whether your bond was with a dog, a pig, a duck, or a turtleāthis space is for you.š
šØ Disclaimer: This episode discusses the emotional topic of animal loss and may be difficult for some listeners. š¹ In This Episode: -The story of Nate, our beloved Mini-Nubian goat, and his quiet impact -Why a goat kid's loss changed Dalby Farmās breeding philosophy for two decades -The unexpected heartbreak of losing a rescued dove to a rare predator -Psychological research on pet loss, grief symptoms, and societal stigma -How continuing to care for rare and endangered animals honors those weāve lost -Why resilience, hope, and compassion are essential to farming and life
š Key References: -American Psychological Association (APA): Pet loss and grief comparable to human bereavement (Quackenbush & Glickman, 2021) -Anthrozoƶs Journal: "Pet Owner Grief Study," showing 72% experienced grief symptoms for 6+ months (2020) -Dalby Farm Rare Breeds Program: Arapawa Island Goats, Ossabaw Island Hogs, Shetland Sheep, Royal Palm Turkeys, American Blue and Chinchilla Rabbits -University of California, Davis: Studies on rumen stasis and goat digestive emergencies -Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Insights into weasel predation patterns in New England
āØ If you're healing from the loss of an animal today, you are not alone. Your love matteredāand still does. š Subscribe for more reflections on farm life, conservation, and the bond between humans and animals. š§ Listen to the full Barn & Soul podcast series here https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX9sUsZxbT39khhG3Geol6ZON7FzyO4iG š» Learn more about Dalby Farmās endangered breed mission: DalbyFarm.com #BarnAndSoul #PetLoss #AnimalGrief #FarmLife #DalbyFarm #Conservation #GriefHealing #AnimalLove
āāā š If youāre grieving an animal right now, know youāre not alone. Their lives mattered. Your love matters. And continuing to love and protect the lives still in our care is one of the greatest honors we can give. š§ Subscribe to Barn & Soul for more reflections on animals, nature, and the human spirit. š¾ Learn more about Dalby Farm and our conservation work:Ā š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 9 - The Role of Farm Animals in Human History, Are We Forgetting It?
For thousands of years, animals weren't just companionsāthey were our partners in survival. But as technology surged forward, did we lose sight of the role they played? In this episode, we explore: š¹ Oxen, plows, and power ā how draft animals revolutionized early agriculture š¹ Chickens in war zones?! ā the surprising military history of poultry š¹ Spiritual symbolism ā pigs, goats, and sheep in ancient cultures š¹ How rare heritage breeds preserve our past š¹ Real-life stories from our own animals at Dalby Farm, including: āāš Arapawa Island Goats ā island survivalists with a wild legacy āāš Ossabaw Island Hogs ā descended from Spanish explorer pigs āāš American Blue & Chinchilla Rabbits ā bred for utility, now endangered āāš Australorp Chickens ā record-setting egg layers with Australian roots āāš¦ Royal Palm Turkeys ā prized for their beauty and calm nature āāš Shetland Sheep ā tough, tiny sheep with a Scottish soul We also talk about why teaching the next generation about rare breeds matters more than everābecause a compassionate future starts with understanding the past š§” šļø Whether you're a fellow farm soul or just curious about the hidden history behind the animals we love, this one's for you. š Donāt forget to subscribe and leave a question for a future episode!
New Episodes: Wednesdays at 9PM EST
š References & Sources: š¹ Rare Breeds Conservation Society of New Zealand ā Arapawa Island Goat https://www.rarebreeds.co.nz/arapawa.html š¹ The Livestock Conservancy ā Arapawa Goat https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/arapawa-goat/ š¹ University of Georgia Marine Institute ā Ossabaw Island https://ugami.uga.edu/ossabaw-island/ š¹The Livestock Conservancy ā Ossabaw Island Hog https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/ossabaw-island-hog/ š¹American Rabbit Breeders Association https://arba.net/ š¹The Livestock Conservancy ā American Blue Rabbit https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/american-blue-rabbit/ š¹The Livestock Conservancy ā American Chinchilla Rabbit https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/american-chinchilla-rabbit/ š¹The Livestock Conservancy ā Australorp https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/australorp/ š¹Oklahoma State University Breeds Archive ā Royal Palm Turkey https://breeds.okstate.edu/poultry/turkeys/royal-palm/index.html š¹The Livestock Conservancy ā Royal Palm Turkey https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/royal-palm-turkey/ š¹Shetland Sheep Society (UK) https://www.shetland-sheep.org.uk/ š¹North American Shetland Sheep Association https://www.nassasheep.org/ FAO DAD-IS Breed Database https://www.fao.org/dad-is/ š¹ Clutton-Brock, Juliet. Animals as Domesticates: A World View. University of California Press, 2012. š¹Serpell, James. The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behavior and Interactions with People. Cambridge University Press, 1995. š¹ McNeill, J.R. & McNeill, William H. The Human Web: A Bird's-Eye View of World History. W.W. Norton & Company, 2003. š¹ Smithsonian Magazine ā āHow Animals Have Shaped Human Historyā https://www.smithsonianmag.com/ š¹ National WWII Museum ā āAnimals in Warā https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/animals-war Louv, Richard. Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-š¹ D
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.Ā Episode 8 Saving the Most Endangered Goat in the World: The Arapawa Island Goat š
š“āā ļø What do pirates,Ā British sailors ā, and a rugged New Zealand island šļø have in common? They all played a part in the story of the Arapawa Island Goatāone of the rarest goats on Earth, with fewer than 1k left worldwide in 2025. š±
In this episode, we explore: š The mysterious origin of the Arapawa breed šæ How they survived in isolation for centuries šØ Why theyāre critically endangered today š Stories of Sheldon (our current buck) & Saturn (our first baby Arapawa, born at Dalby in the early 2000s) š Why preserving this breed mattersāfor biodiversity, for education, and for future generations Arapawas are more than just rareāthey're living history. And at Dalby Farm, weāre doing everything we can to protect them. š«¶
š§ Tune in, learn something new, and maybe fall in love with an underdog goat. Donāt forget to like, subscribe & share if you believe rare breeds deserve a future too. š« #BarnAndSoul #ArapawaGoat #RareBreeds #HeritageFarm #FarmLife #ConservationMatters #DalbyFarm #EndangeredSpecies #AnimalLovers
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube!
š„°Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm
šļø Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 7-Ā Reconnecting with What Weāve Forgotten | Barn & Soul Podcast.
āØĀ In this reflective episode, we explore something quietly urgent: our fading connection with animals, nature, and the parts of ourselves that once felt wild, grounded, and whole. Why does holding a baby goat matter? What happens when kids grow up without touching the earth or bonding with animals? And how can farms like Dalby help plant seeds of empathy that grow for a lifetime? This episode shares why nature-based programming isnāt just cuteāitās essential. For our children. For the future. For all of us.
š§ Topics include: ā The role of sensory connection in childhood development ā Why weāre becoming emotionally disconnected from nature ā How animal care fosters empathy and emotional regulation ā What Dalby Farm is doing to inspire the next generation of protectors Whether youāre a parent, teacher, animal lover, or just someone longing to feel a little more connected again, this oneās for you.
š References & Resources Mentioned in This Episode Louv, Richard. Last Child in the Woods American Psychological Association ā Pets & Mental Health ā¤ https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2011/pets Chawla, Louise. āSignificant Life Experiencesā¦ā Environmental Education Research, 1998 Harvard Health ā The Health Benefits of Pets ā¤ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-health-benefits-of-pets Children & Nature Network ā¤ https://www.childrenandnature.org Journal of Pediatric Nursing ā Animal-Assisted Interventions National Wildlife Federation ā Green Time for Kids ā¤ https://www.nwf.org/Kids-and-Family/Connecting-Kids-and-Nature/Health-Benefits š¦ Learn more about Dalby Farmās rare breed mission and educational programming: š www.dalbyfarm.com š Like, share, and subscribe if you believe in the power of animals to change lives. Until next time, take careāand donāt forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life. #BarnAndSoul #DalbyFarm #NatureConnection #AnimalTherapy #Podcast #ChildhoodDevelopment #RareBreedConservation #NatureEducation #EmpathyThroughAnimals
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
š Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 23-Ā Women, Wives, and the Working Farm
This week, weāre shining a light on the women who built, ran, and quietly revolutionized small farms across America ā from the 1800s to today. From home demonstration agents and āfarmerettesā to modern conservation leaders, this episode explores how womenās invisible work shaped the backbone of rural life.
Kendall shares some history, the hard numbers, and a personal reflection on how Dalby Farmās mission was transformed in the early 2000s by her mother ā and how that legacy continues today through her own work and ventures.
š Highlights include: ā¢ The ātriple burdenā of womenās agricultural labor ā¢ The Womenās Land Army and its wartime impact ā¢ Why female farmers are the fastest-growing group in U.S. agriculture ā¢ The women who turned care into curriculum ā and legacy into action
š Resources & Bibliography -USDA NASS (2022). Census of Agriculture: Female Producers (Highlights PDF). https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Highlights/2024/Census22_HL_FemaleProducers.pdf -USDA NASS (2022). Census of Agriculture - general portal and demographic tables (producers, gender, age, and farm characteristics). https://www.nass.usda.gov/AgCensus/ -NIFA / USDA. Cooperative Extension History (Smith-Lever Act, 1914).Ā https://nifa.usda.gov/about-nifa/what-we-do/extension/cooperative-extension-history -Pilgeram, R. (2022). Women, Race and Place in U.S. Agriculture. National Center for Biotechnology Information (PMC/NCBI). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9361245/ -Penn State University (2024). Coverage of the ātriple burdenā of invisible labor as a major stressor for farm women. (Available via Penn State News - search ātriple burden farm women Penn State.ā) NĆŗƱez, P. G. (2020).Ā -Rural Womenās Invisible Work in Census and State Records: Recognition and Visibility. Land, 9(3), 92. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-445X/9/3/92 -Library of Congress. Farm Life Collection and Womenās Land Army exhibits - photos, diaries, and primary documents on womenās farm labor during WWI and WWII. https://www.loc.gov/collections/ https://blogs.loc.gov/loc/2018/03/world-war-i-the-womens-land-army/ Ā āTo the Rescue of the Crops: The Womenās Land Army During World War II.ā Prologue Magazine, Winter 1993. https://www.archives.gov/publications/prologue/1993/winter/landarmy.html -National Agricultural Library (USDA). Home Demonstration Work under the Smith-Lever Act (1914)Ā https://www.nal.usda.gov/exhibits/ipd/apronsandkitchens/items/show/42 -Women Have Always Worked: A Concise History - Judith Rollins and others (various editions, JSTOR / academic publishers). -Farm Women: Work, Family, and Farm Life - scholarly monograph, multiple authors (available via Google Books and libraries). -The Smith-Lever Act and Cooperative Extension - institutional histories and academic papers (see NIFA historical materials). -āWomen on the FarmāĀ https://livinghistoryfarm.org/farming-in-the-70s/making-money/women-on-the-farm/ -The Livestock Conservancy. Conservation Priority List and heritage breed education. https://livestockconservancy.org/
Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
...Or you can always shop for the animals instead! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/animals-shop
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 6 Hollywood vs. Reality: The Truth About Farm Life.
š¬ From dreamy farm scenes in Babe and Charlotteās Web to the curated calm of social media reels, today weāre pulling back the curtain on how farming is portrayedāand misrepresentedāin pop culture.Ā
š What does real farm life look like behind the filters and the fiction? What do animal movies get rightā¦ and where do they go wildly off course? And why does it matter? In this episode, we explore:Ā ā¢ The impact of romanticized farm imagery ā¢ How influencers shape perceptions (guilty as charged!) ā¢ What Clarksonās Farm, The Biggest Little Farm, and Gunda get right ā¢ The real emotional, physical, and financial toll of running a working farm ā¢ And how this all affects animal empathy, policy, and small farm survival. If youāve ever dreamt of trading city life for a barn and a pasture, or if you just love animals and want to see them honored honestlyāyouāll love this one.
š² Donāt forget to subscribe, like, and share to help support Dalby Farmās mission to protect rare and endangered farm breeds.
š Until next time, take careāand donāt forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life. #BarnAndSoul #FarmPodcast #FarmLifeReality #AnimalWelfare #SustainableFarming #HeritageBreeds #HollywoodVsReality #ClarksonsFarm #TheBiggestLittleFarm #Gunda #GoatLife #FarmAnimals #DalbyFarm #GooseLife #FarmEducation #AgricultureTruths
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube!
Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
āØĀ Bonus Episode! āØšļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. ā¤ļø All About Chickens: A Complete Guide to Raising Happy Backyard Birds
š„Every 5 episodes or so, weāll feature a special video episode offering in depth discussions and helpful visuals about an amazing animal or breed(s) here at Dalby Farm in Scituate, MA.Ā
ššš¦ From rare breeds to farm favorites, youāll get a closer look at the personalities who inspire everything we do. Keep an eye outāyou wonāt want to miss it!Ā
Today: š Thinking about raising chickensāor just love these feathered friends? In this episode of Barn & Soul, weāre diving into everything you need to know about chicken keeping, from tiny chicks to sweet senior hens. Weāll cover: š£ Brooder basics for healthy chicks š” Setting up the perfect coop š½ļø Feeding tips (and what treats to avoid!) š„ Understanding egg-laying and molting š§¼ Daily and weekly care routines šµ How to help senior hens thrive ā¤ļø Why chickens make amazing, unforgettable pets
Along the way, weāll share fun facts (like how chickens recognize over 100 faces! š²) and simple tips to keep your flock safe, happy, and healthy. Whether youāre just getting started or knee-deep in feathers already, this episode will have you feeling confident and connected to the world of backyard chickens. š§”
šĀ Episode References: Archer, G. (2019). "Natural behaviors of chickens: Dust bathing, foraging, and perching." Poultry Science, 98(10), 3995ā4005. Smith, C.L., & Zielinski, S.L. (2020). "Brain size, behavior, and cognition in domesticated chickens." Animal Cognition, 23(2), 407ā417. Nicol, C.J. (2015). The Behavioural Biology of Chickens. CABI Publishing. Low, P.S. (2012). "The Cambridge Declaration on Consciousness." Presented at the Francis Crick Memorial Conference.
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.Ā Episode 5 - Farm Animals' Secret Language: How Do They Communicate?
š Ever wondered what your chickens, goats, or sheep are really saying?Ā In this episode, we decode the secret language of farm animals! š From clucks to bleats, learn how our farm friends communicate through vocalizations, body language, and more. š¦¢š¬
š¤ What You'll Learn: ā¢ š Chickens have over 30 different vocalizations! ā¢ š Goats recognize each otherās voices and use bleats for communication. ā¢ š Sheep can remember human faces for years! ā¢ š¦ Ducks & geese have their own chatter and unique calls. ā¢ š§ How understanding these signs helps with animal welfare! If youāve ever wanted to understand what your farm animals are saying, this episode is for you! š§ š² Donāt forget to hit subscribe for more fun animal insights! š Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode! Until next time, take careāand donāt forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life. š
š Resources & Further Reading * The Livestock Conservancy ā Learn more about rare and endangered farm breeds: https://livestockconservancy.org * Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) ā Global reports on livestock biodiversity: http://www.fao.org * American Poultry Association (APA) ā Official breed standards for heritage poultry: https://amerpoultryassn.com * National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) ā Advocacy for regenerative farming: https://sustainableagriculture.net * National Geographic ā Studies on animal intelligence & behavior: https://www.nationalgeographic.com * American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA) ā Facts about goat behavior and care: https://adga.org * ASPCA ā Truth about free-range and cage-free labels: https://www.aspca.org * Rare Breeds Survival Trust ā Conservation of endangered livestock breeds: https://www.rbst.org.uk š Dalby Farm-Specific Breeds: * Australorp Chickens ā Once threatened, now thriving thanks to conservation. * Royal Palm Turkeys ā Excellent foragers with strong survival instincts. * Arapawa Island Goats ā One of the rarest goat breeds, with fewer than 500 worldwide. * American Chinchilla Rabbits ā Nearly extinct but known for their dense fur and docile nature. * Shetland Sheep ā Naturally water-resistant wool and highly adaptable. š§ Want to be the first to know about farm updates? Subscribe to our newsletter!
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.Ā Episode 4 - Farm Myths Uncovered: Fact or Fiction?
š·Are pigs really dirty? Do goats eat tin cans? Are heritage breeds outdated? In this episode of Barn & Soul, we're busting some of the biggest farming myths, from misunderstood animal behaviors to the vital role heritage breeds play in sustainable agriculture. Learn the real facts behind these common misconceptions and why small-scale, conservation-focused farming is more important than ever. š¹ Why pigs are cleaner than you think š· š¹ The truth about goatsā picky eating habits š š¹ Why heritage breeds are essential for biodiversity š± š¹ What āfree-rangeā and ācage-freeā labels really mean š„ š¹ And more! Join me, Kendall, as we separate some farm facts from fiction! š References: š National Geographic (2018) ā Studies on pig intelligence š§ š Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (2020) ā Livestock breed extinction rates š š ASPCA (2021) ā Labeling differences between āfree-rangeā and ācage-freeā š·ļø š¬ Got a farm-related myth you want me to cover? Let me know! And if you enjoyed this episode, donāt forget to subscribe, review, and share with a fellow farm or animal lover.
š Support our mission: Visit DalbyFarm.com & follow us on social media! #BarnAndSoul #FarmMyths #HeritageBreeds #SustainableFarming #FarmLife #PigFacts #GoatWisdom #SupportSmallFarms
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 3- Getting To Know Ewe: Dalby Farm Animal Family Superlatives (Part 1)
šFrom the biggest drama queens to the sweetest snuggle bugs, every animal at Dalby Farm has a personality all their own! In this episode, weāre handing out āsuperlativesā to our most talkative, mischievous, and heartwarming residents. Meet the escape artists, the loudmouths, the unexpected best friends, and the old souls whoāve left a lasting mark on the farm. Plus, learn fun facts about these rare and endangered breeds along the way! Tune in and get to know the Dalby Farm familyāone quirky character at a time!
New Episodes: Wednesdays at 9PM EST #barnandsoul #farmlife #weloveanimals #petfarm #hobbyfarm #educationalfarmĀ
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube!
Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm
Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 2: Roots & Resilience: A Brief History of Dalby Farm.
š°ļø Dalby Farm has stood the test of time, but how did it all begin? In this episode, we dive into the farmās rich history, from its founding in 1861 by John Dalby as a chicken farm to its transformation into a sanctuary for rare and endangered farm breeds. Iāll share the key figures who shaped its evolution, including my grandfatherās hands-on craftsmanship and my motherās unwavering passion for conservation.
š Youāll hear about the turning points that redefined the farmās mission, from my childhood memories among the animals to the innovative programs that have helped us adapt in changing times. From early challenges to community-driven successes, this episode is a heartfelt look at what makes Dalby Farm more than just a farmāitās a legacy of love, learning, and preservation. Join me as I share the story behind the farm and how we continue to grow while staying true to our roots.
New Episodes: Wednesdays at 9PM EST #barnandsoul #farmlife #weloveanimals #petfarm #hobbyfarm #educationalfarmĀ
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 1: The Most Concerning Statistics About Farm Animal Extinction
šØIn this debut episode* of Barn & Soul, we dive into a crisis that fuels everything we do at Dalby Farm: the alarming extinction of heritage farm animal breeds. Did you know that nearly one-third of all livestock breeds are at risk of disappearing forever? Or that industrial farming has led to the extinction of over 1,000 breeds in the last century?
š¬ Join me as we uncover some shocking statistics behind this global issue, explore why preserving rare breeds is essential for biodiversity and food security, and discuss how small farms play a crucial role in keeping these animals from vanishing. This is more than just a numbers gameāit's a call to action.
āļø *Trigger warning - I also state this in the episode before I begin. If you're not in the right frame of mind to hear concerning numbers about our environment- please move on to the next episodes. They will be positive & uplifting in comparison! I just feel it's important to touch on this topic so the context is clear as it pertains to why Dalby is what it is.
New Episodes: Wednesdays at 9PM EST #barnandsoul #farmlife #weloveanimals #petfarm #hobbyfarm #educationalfarmĀ
EPISODE REFERENCES: 1. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). (2007). The State of the Worldās Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. Ā Ā * Read the full report here 2. The Livestock Conservancy. (n.d.). Conservation Genetics. Ā Ā * Explore their resources here 3. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). (2019). Strengthening Strategic Genetic Resources for Livestock. Ā Ā * Access the summary report here FAO. (n.d.). What is happening to agrobiodiversity?. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.Ā FAOHome
Gandini, G., & Villa, E. (2003). Analysis: Socioeconomic causes of loss of animal genetic diversity: Analysis of diversity among European cattle breeds. Ecological Economics, 45(3), 365-379.Ā
1. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). (2021). The State of the Worldās Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture. FAO. Ā Ā * Provides global insights into biodiversity and its impact on food security, including statistics on endangered livestock breeds. 2. American Livestock Breeds Conservancy (ALBC). (2020). Conservation of Rare Breeds. Ā Ā * Offers extensive resources on rare and endangered farm animal breeds in the U.S. and their preservation efforts. 3. The Livestock Conservancy. (n.d.). Why Save Rare Breeds?. Retrieved from https://www.livestockconservancy.org Ā Ā * Provides a wealth of information about endangered farm breeds and why they are crucial for agricultural sustainability. 4. Rischkowsky, B., & Pilling, D. (2007). The State of the Worldās Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. FAO. Ā Ā * Offers a comprehensive overview of animal genetic resources, including statistics on the decline of farm breeds worldwide. 5. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). (2019). Conservation and Protection of Livestock Genetic Resources. Ā Ā * Discusses conservation policies and programs aimed at protecting genetic diversity in farm animals. 6. The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). (2019). The Role of Livestock in Sustainable Development. Ā Ā * Provides insights into the importance of livestock breeds and their role in food security and sustainable agriculture.
Welcome to Barn & Soul, a podcast brought to you by Dalby Farm - where we will explore the heart of "pet farm" life, learn about critically populated (if not outright) endangered farm breeds, and highlight the deep connections between animals and humans which we strive to encourage and preserve.
The farm has been Kendall's (your host) family since 1861 but it wasn't always a sanctuary for endangered farm breeds or an educational venue for the community. This podcast will touch upon aspects of the farms history, offer insight and advice as it pertains to owning farm animals as pets- and arguably most importantly - share vital information about these endangered farm breeds;Ā what their roles are in our past AND why they're needed in our future.
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
šļø Barn & Soul ā Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 22- Beyond the Fence: The Ethical Weight of Keeping Animals
What does it really mean to care for animals in captivity ā even with love and good intentions? In this thoughtful episode of Barn & Soul, we explore the emotional, ethical, and practical complexities of keeping animals in our care. From questions of consent and control to the responsibility of true stewardship, Kendall reflects on what ethical animal care looks like at Dalby Farm ā and beyond. Youāll also hear about real-world examples of animals being recognized as more than property, from Argentinaās landmark case granting personhood to an orangutan, to Indiaās legal protections for river dolphins. This isnāt about guilt ā itās about awareness, compassion, and a willingness to keep doing better. šš Fast Facts: š Over 70 billion animals are farmed each year, most in industrial settings (FAO, 2024) š Goats can remember human faces for a year or more (University of London, 2018) š Some animals ā like elephants and dolphins ā show self-awareness through the mirror test (National Geographic, 2023) āļø Legal personhood for animals is gaining momentum around the world (Science.org, 2023)
š§ Whether you work with animals, love them deeply, or simply want to understand the ethics behind humanāanimal relationships, this episode invites you to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what it means to truly care. Until next time ā take care, and donāt forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life. š
š References & Sources 1. Global Farmed Animal StatisticsFood and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), 2024āThe State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2024āhttps://www.fao.org/state-of-fisheries-aquaculture 2. Goat Facial Recognition and Memory StudyNawroth, C., Ebersbach, M., von Borell, E., & Langbein, J. (2018)āGoats excel at learning and remembering human facesāRoyal Society Open Sciencehttps://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.180422 3. Self-Awareness in Animals ā Mirror TestNational Geographic, 2023āMirror Test and Self-Awareness in Animalsāhttps://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/animals-mirror-self-recognition 4. Legal Personhood for AnimalsScience.org, 2023āAnimal Legal Personhood Gains Momentum Worldwideāhttps://www.science.org/content/article/animal-legal-personhood-gains-momentum-worldwide 5. U.S. Survey on Legal Protections for Farm AnimalsASPCA, 2021āPublic Opinion on Farm Animal Welfareāhttps://www.aspca.org/animal-protection/public-opinion-farm-animal-welfare 6. Sandra the Orangutan Legal Personhood CaseBBC News, 2015āSandra the Orangutan Wins Legal Personhood in Argentinaāhttps://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-31719137 7. Pet Trusts and Animal Inheritance ExamplesForbes, 2021āThe Most Expensive Pets: Animals Who Inherited Millionsāhttps://www.forbes.com/sites/legalentertainment/2021/09/07/the-most-expensive-pets/?sh=3e8eec975e67 8. Legal Personhood for Ganges River Dolphins and Forests in IndiaThe Guardian, 2017āIndia Grants River Dolphins Legal Rights to Protect Themāhttps://www.theguardian.com/environment/2017/mar/21/india-grants-legal-rights-to-ganges-river-dolphins
šSHOP FALL at the Dalby Farm Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store/summer-autumn
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook
š Barn & Soul Podcast: Episode 21 -Ā Barnyard Superstitions: Luck, Omens, and Old Wivesā Tales
Hey friends, itās Kendall! šāØ Today weāre diving into the wonderfully weird world of barnyard superstitions ā the little magical, spooky, and sometimes hilarious ways humans have read meaning into farm life for centuries. From sacred chickens deciding battles in ancient Rome, to black sheep bringing luck (or bad luck, depending on the day), to frogs, feathers, and swallows ā farms have always been full of omens and little secrets.
Weāll wander through barns, peek into history, and uncover how humans have always tried to find meaning in the everyday ā all while learning to notice the quiet wisdom of animals. šš¦š¦
Whether youāre a farm lover, history nerd, or just someone who likes a little magic with their morning coffee ā, this oneās for you!
š¾ Fast Facts & Highlights
Ā Horseshoes werenāt just decoration ā they were luck-catchers and spirit-shielders.
Ā Roman sacred chickens once dictated whether armies marched or stayed home ā no kidding.
Ā Black sheep could be either bad luckā¦ or highly prized. Perspective matters.
Swallows nesting in your barn = prosperity vibes. Donāt disturb them!
Ā Frogs in milk pails? 19th-century superstition said butter would be ruined.
Farmers were basically early scientists ā observing animals, weather, and plants to make sense of the world.
New episodes every Wednesday at 9pm EST!
š References / Bibliography
Ebeling, E. (2015). The Sacred Chickens of Rome: Omens and Warfare in Ancient History. Classical Studies Journal.
Simpson, J., & Roud, S. (2000). A Dictionary of English Folklore. Oxford University Press.
Olcott, F. (2020). Animals in Myth, Legend, and Folklore. Cambridge Scholars Publishing.
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). The Importance of Nature and Outdoor Play for Children. Pediatrics.
Journal of Family Psychology. (2020). Family Bonding and Outdoor Activities.
Child Development Research. (2022). Empathy and Animal Interaction in Early Childhood.
Nature Neuroscience. (2019). Cognitive Benefits of Outdoor Exploration in Children.
Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. (2021). Exposure to Animals and Childhood Immune Development.
Historical accounts: Roman military records regarding augurs and sacred chickens (Livy, Ab Urbe Condita, 1st century BCE).
šļø Barn & Soul - Episode 20 Farm Instincts: What Animals Know Before We Do (And How We Forgot)
Animals notice things long before we do - whether itās a storm rolling in, an illness on the horizon, or even a natural disaster. In this episode, we explore the incredible sensory abilities of farm animals and how humans, over time, have lost many of the instincts we once relied on.
From goats pausing before rain, to birds adjusting flight paths hours before a storm, to toads leaving breeding grounds days before earthquakes - nature offers constant signals if weāre willing to listen. Weāll talk about how animals tune into barometric pressure, infrasound, and subtle chemical changes, and what their behavior can teach us about paying attention, reconnecting with our environment, and even caring for their health more effectively.
Along the way, weāll uncover fascinating āfast facts,ā like why goats prefer smiling faces, how rabbits sense seismic vibrations, and ponder why cows act like living compasses.
āØ Whether youāre a farmer, animal lover, or just curious about the instincts weāve forgotten, this episode is a reminder that animals are often our earliest, wisest messengers.
š Tune in for Episode 20 of Barn & Soulāand learn what your animals might already know.
We are back from hiatus! New episodes every Wednesday at 9pm EST!
Welcome to Barn & Soul, where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.
In this episode, we take you on a reflective journey through the history of our hometown- Scituate, Massachusetts - the place Dalby Farm has called home since the 1860s.
From its Wampanoag roots and Revolutionary War resilience to lighthouse legends, family farms, and the challenges of modern development, this coastal town holds nearly 400 years of stories.
Join Kendall as we explore the soul of Scituate: its people, its land, and how the tension between preservation and progress continues to shape life today.
š Featuring insights on Dalby Farmās origin and why green spaces- and rare breeds- matter more than ever.
āļø Grab a warm drink and take a walk back in time with us.
šāØ The Sacred Chicken: Myths, Magic, and Mystery | Barn & Soul Podcast- Ep. 18
When you think of chickens, you might picture eggs, feathers, or a backyard coop.. but across history and cultures, chickens have meant so much more. In this episode of Barn & Soul, we'll take you on a global journey through the mythology, symbolism, and spiritual significance of the worldās most common bird.
From ancient Romeās āsacred chickensā that guided military strategy, to roosters in Chinese temples and Shinto shrines, to their role in Vodou and African spirituality- this episode reveals a side of chickens most people never see. They were once considered divine messengers, guardians of the spirit world, and even summoners of the sun.
Recorded at Dalby Farm in Scituate, Massachusetts, this is a reflective, story-rich look at what happens when we slow down and really see the animals around us.
šŖ¶ Whether you're a history lover, farm enthusiast, or just curious about animal folklore, this episode is for you.
š Sources & References A full list of scholarly and cultural references is available at the end of the episode and in the comments.
š· Follow along for more farm life, rare breeds & reflections: Find us on Instagram: @dalbyfarm
š If this episode made you see chickens a little differently, like, comment, and share. It helps more people reconnect with the rare and wonderful things in life.
Barn & Soul ā Episode 17 šļø The Invisible Work of Farm Animals: More Than Meat, Milk, and Eggs
When most people think about farm animals, they picture foodāeggs, meat, milk. But thatās never been the whole story.
In this episode, we explore the unseen, often uncelebrated roles that animals have played in our survival and our stories. From providing warmth through wool, to powering early economies, to offering emotional support and companionship, farm animals have done more than feed usātheyāve walked alongside us.
Join me as we take a heart-centered journey through the history, labor, and quiet legacy of the animals whoāve given humanity far more than we often realize.
š Wool as survival gear š Cattle as currency š Animal-powered labor š Emotional connection & therapeutic presence
Letās slow down, honor their impact, and reconnect with the invisible work that still matters today.
š References & Sources
International Wool Textile Organization (IWTO) Wool and Sustainability Report 2023 https://iwto.org/wool-sustainability
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations Livestock and Cultural Heritage https://www.fao.org/livestock
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Animal-Assisted Therapy: Effects on Stress, Anxiety, and Depression (2020ā2024) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8790605/ (Example from 2022: Stress Reduction through Human-Animal Interaction)
Journal of Animal Science Historical Uses of Oxen in Agriculture https://academic.oup.com/jas
National Geographic Education The Role of Animals in Human History https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/animals-and-humans-through-time
š Barn & Soul ā Episode 16: The Future of Farming: How Technology and Tradition Can Coexist
In this episode of Barn & Soul, we explore the exciting and essential intersection of modern farming technology and time-honored traditions. Can precision agriculture, drones, AI, and gene editing truly work with heirloom seeds, rare livestock breeds, and hands-on animal care?
Join us as we look at how emerging innovations are reshaping agricultureāand why preserving genetic diversity, animal welfare, and traditional skills still matters more than ever. Featuring real-world examples, powerful statistics, and insights from our life here at Dalby Farm, this 20-minute episode is a hopeful look at the road ahead.
Whether you're a small farmer, sustainability advocate, animal lover, or simply curious about what the future of food looks like, this one's for you.
š Fast Facts in This Episode: š¹ Global food production must increase by 60% by 2050 (FAO, 2017) š¹ Precision agriculture can boost yields up to 70% (McKinsey, 2020) š¹ Small farms produce 70% of the worldās food on just 25% of land (IFAD, 2019) š¹ Rare breeds like the Ossabaw Island Hog support climate resilience and food security
š§ Listen in to discover how Dalby Farmās rare breeds, regenerative practices, and soul-first approach to farming fit into a more resilient food systemāand how you can be part of the solution, even in your own backyard.
š± References & Resources:
FAO (2017). The Future of Food and Agriculture. Link
McKinsey (2020). Agricultureās Digital Future. Link
š Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.Episode 28 - Heritage Breeds Are Time Machines And Weāre Letting Them Disappear
In this episode of Barn & Soul, Kendall dives into the extraordinary and often overlooked world of heritage livestock. These animals are more than old-fashioned breeds or nostalgic farm icons. They are living time capsules carrying centuries of human history, culture, survival strategies, and genetic resilience.
From Arapawa goats to Ossabaw Island hogs to Shetland sheep, Kendall explores why heritage breeds are disappearing from modern agriculture and why their loss would mean more than losing animals. It would mean losing stories. Losing adaptations. Losing solutions we may desperately need in a changing climate.
You will learn how industrial agriculture narrowed the global gene pool, why biodiversity matters for food security, and how small educational farms like Dalby Farm act as tiny but essential preservation sites. This episode is part science, part history, part love letter to the rare and wonderful breeds who shaped the world long before industrial farming existed.
Whether you are a farmer, homesteader, educator, or simply someone who loves animals, this episode will change the way you see heritage livestock. These animals are archives. They are time machines. And the choices we make now will determine whether their stories continue.
Thank you for listening. And as always ā take care, and donāt forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.
Resources
Livestock Conservancy Breed status reports and conservation priority listings for heritage livestock. www.livestockconservancy.org
FAO Global assessments of livestock diversity, agricultural biodiversity, and genetic erosion. www.fao.org
Our World in Data Trends in livestock populations, agriculture, and genetic resource loss. www.ourworldindata.org
USDA National Animal Germplasm Program Information on genetic diversity, rare breed preservation, and cryo-conservation research. www.ars.usda.gov
Slow Food International ā Ark of Taste Documentation of heritage breeds and traditional food cultures at risk. www.slowfood.com
American Sheep Industry Association Breed histories and genetic value of heritage sheep, including Shetland. www.sheepusa.org
Rare Breeds Survival Trust (UK) Annual āWatchlistā reports and data on heritage breed declines and recoveries. www.rbst.org.uk
University of Missouri Center for Agroforestry Research on biodiversity, resilient livestock systems, and small-farm conservation models.
Smithsonian Magazine Articles on domesticated animal history and the cultural value of heritage livestock.
National Geographic Features on animal domestication, rare breeds, and agricultural biodiversity.
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm
Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
...Or you can always shop for the animals instead! ht
š Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 27- Maybe You Shouldnāt Be a Farmer (and that's okay!)
Ā Farming looks peaceful from the outsideā¦ but behind every pretty moment is a reality most people never see. In this deeply human episode, Kendall explores the side of farm life that rarely makes it onto social media: the emotional cost, the physical toll, the relentless responsibility, and the quiet truth that farming is not for everyone. And thatās okay.
Through personal stories from Dalby Farm, reflections on New England winter, and a grounded look at the financial and emotional realities facing small farms today, this episode unpacks what it really means to choose this life. It also honors the truth that loving animals and loving nature does not require becoming a farmer. Supporters, visitors, volunteers, and advocates matter just as much as the people who muck stalls every day.
Whether you farm, dream of farming, or simply care about where your food and animals come from, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a rare moment of honesty in a world that often romanticizes rural life.
References American Farm Bureau Federation. Farmer and Rancher Mental Health: Research Findings and Rural Stress Indicators. Washington, DC: AFBF, 2022.
Cornell Cooperative Extension. āDiversified Farm Income, Stress Management, and Burnout Prevention.ā Cornell University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Ithaca, NY.
Farm Aid. Farmersā Stress and Financial Vulnerability: Annual Report on Family Farm Wellbeing. Cambridge, MA: Farm Aid Research Division, 2023.
FAO ā Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Livestock: Challenges and Realities of Global Animal Agriculture. Rome, Italy: FAO Publications.
National Farmers Union. Barriers for Small and Beginning Farmers: Economic and Structural Challenges. Washington, DC: NFU Policy Research Department, 2021.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Agricultural Safety and Health: Livestock-Related Injuries and Fatalities. Atlanta, GA: CDC/NIOSH, 2023.
National Young Farmers Coalition. Building a Future with Farmers: Challenges Facing the Next Generation. Hudson, NY: NYFC, 2022.
Penn State Extension. āRealistic Expectations for New Farmers: Startup, Labor, and Livestock Care.ā College of Agricultural Sciences, Pennsylvania State University.
UMaine Cooperative Extension. āLivestock Care and Farm Management in New England Winters.ā Orono, ME: University of Maine Extension Publications.
United States Census of Agriculture. New and Beginning Farmer Profiles, Economic Realities of Small Farms. Washington, DC: United States Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), 2022.
United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Agricultural Workers: Hours, Injury Incidence, and Occupational Risk. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Program, 2023.
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm
Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and
š Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 26: The Quiet Season ā What Winter Really Does to a Farm
Winter looks still from the outside, but on a farm it becomes one of the most active and revealing seasons of the entire year. In this cozy, educational episode, we explore the hidden work happening beneath the snow, the biology behind heritage breed resilience, and the realities of farming through a New England winter.
From soil science and freezeāthaw cycles to the way animals adjust their metabolism and coat growth, this episode brings together the ecology, emotion, and daily rhythms of the season that teaches farmers how to slow down, observe, and prepare for the year ahead.
If you have ever wondered what winter truly means on a working farm, or why this season is essential to both land and livestock, this is your fireside listen.
Fast Facts included in this episode:
Soil naturally aerates in winter.
Snow can act as insulation.
Hens lay based on daylight.
Cold lowers parasite pressure.
Many heritage breeds were created specifically for harsh winters.
Cozy, thoughtful, and grounded in real New England realism, this episode invites you to meet winter the way farms do: as a season of purpose, rest, and quiet transformation.
Until next time, take care and appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.
ReferencesĀ
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) USDA Soil Science Division U.S. Forest Service The Livestock Conservancy Poultry Science programs (University of Minnesota, University of Georgia) NOAA and Northeast Regional Climate Center
š Subscribe for more farm life insights, rare breed conservation, and the behind-the-scenes of running a small farm! Remember, all the animals on our farm our PETS! They live out their days as educational ambassadors to our community far & wide! Please follow us here on Youtube! Find us on Instagram & Facebook @DalbyFarm
Shop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store At least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and all the endangered breeds who live there.
...Or you can always shop for the animals instead! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/animals-shop