Barn & Soul by Dalby Farm

Send us Fan MailSome weeks/months/seasons don’t go according to plan.In this shorter, more personal episode of Barn & Soul, Kendall shares what it feels like to fall behind, feel overwhelmed, and still show up—because on a farm, the work doesn’t pause.Through quiet moments with the animals at Dalby Farm, this episode explores the difference between pressure and presence, and why farming has a way of grounding us when everything else feels like too much.From the steady rhythm of daily chores to the deeper truth that heritage farming isn’t about perfection - but continuity - this is a reminder that showing up, even imperfectly, is enough.If you’ve been feeling off your rhythm, behind, or stretched too thin… this episode is for you.🐐 Fast Facts Featured in This EpisodeOver 70% of small farmers report experiencing burnout during peak or transitional seasonsDecision fatigue can reduce productivity by up to 40% over timeLivestock care requires daily consistency, regardless of external stress or workload🌿 In This Episode, We ExploreWhat overwhelm actually looks like in day-to-day farm lifeThe mental weight of “falling behind” in creative and physical workWhy animals don’t measure productivity—and what we can learn from thatThe concept of continuity vs. perfection in heritage breed farmingHow farms naturally guide us back to presence and prioritization📍 About Dalby FarmDalby Farm is a historic family farm in Scituate, Massachusetts, dedicated to preserving rare and endangered heritage breeds, including Arapawa Island goats, Ossabaw Island hogs, Shetland sheep, and more.💬 Let’s Stay ConnectedHave a question about farm life, rare breeds, or something you’d like covered in a future episode?Reach out or leave a comment—we’d love to hear from you.Support the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.  Episode 36 -  Why Humans Need Animals (More Than We Admit).If animals are no longer required for survival, why are we still so deeply drawn to them?In this episode of Barn & Soul, we explore the historical, psychological, and emotional reasons humans continue to need animals in modern life. From the Agricultural Revolution to therapy dogs, from childhood empathy to rising loneliness statistics, this conversation looks at the human–animal bond through both research and lived experience.Animals helped build civilization. They powered agriculture, transportation, communication, and trade. Today, they regulate our nervous systems, shape childhood development, reduce stress, and quietly anchor our sense of connection in a world that often feels disconnected.The question is not whether animals are useful.The question is whether humans are fully human without them.Until next time, take care—and don’t forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.References and SourcesAmerican Pet Products AssociationNational Pet Owners Survey and Industry Spending Reportshttps://www.americanpetproducts.org/Human Animal Bond Research InstituteResearch on pet ownership, loneliness, and mental healthhttps://www.habri.org/U.S. Surgeon General Advisory (2023)Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolationhttps://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdfNational Institutes of HealthHuman–Animal Interaction Research and cortisol studieshttps://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-petsAmerican Heart AssociationDog ownership and mortality risk meta-analysis published in Circulationhttps://www.ahajournals.org/Centers for Disease Control and PreventionHealth Benefits of the Human–Animal Bondhttps://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/health-benefits/U.S. Department of Veterans AffairsService Dogs and PTSD Researchhttps://www.research.va.gov/University of CambridgeResearch on children’s empathy and pet ownershipWaltham Petcare Science InstituteChild development and pet interaction studieshttps://www.waltham.com/United States Department of AgricultureCensus of Agriculture and agritourism datahttps://www.nass.usda.gov/United States Department of AgricultureHistory of domestication and livestock agriculturehttps://www.usda.gov/American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to AnimalsHistory of animal welfare in urban settingshttps://www.aspca.org/Grand View ResearchAnimal-Assisted Therapy Market Projectionshttps://www.grandviewresearch.com/Morgan Stanley ResearchGlobal Pet Industry Growth Projectionshttps://www.morganstanley.com/International Society for AnthrozoSupport the show

Send a textWhat does it really mean to care for animals?In this episode of Barn & Soul, we explore the quiet but powerful difference between loving animals and being responsible for their lives every single day. From daily routines and financial realities to emotional bonds and unseen sacrifices, this conversation takes an honest look at what animal care truly involves.This is not a judgment of animal lovers. It is a compassionate, behind-the-scenes look at the commitment, responsibility, and lifelong dedication that animal caretakers carry.Whether you visit farms, share your home with pets, or simply feel a deep connection to animals, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective on the work that happens long after the joyful moments end.Because animals are not experiences. They are lives.Until next time, take care—and don’t forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.References and SourcesAmerican Pet Products Association (APPA)APPA National Pet Owners Survey and Industry Spending Reportshttps://www.americanpetproducts.org/American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)Pet Statistics and Shelter Intake Datahttps://www.aspca.org/helping-people-pets/shelter-intake-and-surrenderUnited States Department of Agriculture (USDA)Livestock and Poultry Care, Daily Labor Requirements and Husbandry Resourceshttps://www.usda.gov/Journal AnthrozoösHuman–Animal Interaction Research on Compassion Fatigue and Caregiver StressInternational Society for Anthrozoologyhttps://www.isaz.net/University of Lincoln, School of Life SciencesResearch on Animal–Human Bond and Recognition of Primary Caregivershttps://www.lincoln.ac.uk/American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)Veterinary Care Costs, Access to Care, and Industry Trendshttps://www.avma.org/American Veterinary Medical Association Economic ReportsTrends in Veterinary Service Costs and Pet Healthcare Spendinghttps://www.avma.org/resources-tools/reports-statisticsSupport the show

Send a textBitter Cold Survival: What Farm Animals Actually Need in a New England StormWhat do farm animals actually need during a bitter New England cold snap?After weeks of snow, ice, and forecasts hinting at more, this episode is a practical winter survival guide for animal care during extreme weather. We’re talking about what truly keeps animals safe in storms, what people often get wrong, and why winter care is less about gadgets and more about systems.In this episode, we walk through the essentials of cold-weather animal care:Why dry + wind protection + calories + unfrozen water matter more than heatThe real risks of heat lamps and why they can become dangerous in coops and barnsHow chickens, sheep, goats, and pigs actually handle cold temperaturesPractical winter strategies like deep bedding, ventilation, staging water, and storm preparationThe sustainable, low-tech “storm hacks” that make winter chores safer and more manageableIf you’re caring for animals during winter storms—or just curious about how farms operate when the world outside looks like a snow globe with consequences—this episode is for you.Because winter animal care isn’t about perfection.It’s about systems that work when conditions don’t.Fast facts in this episodeFrostbite risk in poultry is driven by cold + moisture, not cold alone.Sheep and goats tolerate cold well but struggle with wet conditions and wind exposure.Fire safety organizations warn that heat lamps and heaters are major coop and barn fire risks.Extension guidance consistently emphasizes water access, dry bedding, wind protection, and monitoring as the foundations of cold-weather livestock care.Resources & further readingUniversity of Maine Cooperative Extension & Maine Dept. of Agriculture — Cold weather livestock care guidanceUniversity of Minnesota Extension — Caring for chickens in cold weather (ventilation, moisture, frostbite)University of Maine Cooperative Extension — Winter Care of Laying Hens bulletinMichigan State University Extension — Preparing goats and sheep for winter weatherOhio State University Extension — Cold stress and shelter guidance for small ruminantsUSDA National Agroforestry Center — Windbreaks for livestock operationsNational Fire Protection Association — Chicken coop fire and electrical safetyPenn State Extension — Barn fire prevention resourcesNew Hampshire DOT — Salt brine anti-icing concept (for walkways and human safety)Support the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul — Episode 33The Ones Who Stay: Why Some People Don’t Leave Farming, and Why Some StartWhy would anyone choose farming, especially now?In this episode of Barn & Soul, Kendall takes a grounded, first-hand  AND data-informed look at one of the most enduring questions in agriculture: why some people stay in farming despite the odds, why others leave, and why new people continue to begin anyway.Using the latest U.S. agricultural census data, income reports, and research on farm structure and wellbeing, this episode explores the realities behind romantic ideas of farming and the quieter truths that don’t always make it into the conversation.This episode isn’t about glorifying hardship or offering easy answers. It’s about seeing farming clearly- as work that is relational, meaningful, demanding, and deeply human.Whether you farm, hope to someday, or simply care about where food comes from and who produces it, The Ones Who Stay offers context, compassion, and clarity for a system that holds more people together than we often realize.📚 References & SourcesUSDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS)2022 Census of Agriculture Highlights: Farms and Farmland (March 2024)USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS)2022 Census of Agriculture Highlights: New and Beginning Producers (2024)USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS)2022 Census of Agriculture Highlights: Farm Producers (Average Age Data)USDA Economic Research Service (ERS)Farm Household Income Estimates (January 27, 2025)USDA Economic Research Service (ERS)Farm Household Income Forecast (September 3, 2025)USDA Economic Research Service (ERS)Charts of Note: Direct-to-Consumer and Other Direct Marketing Sales, 2022 Census (March 21, 2024)USDA Economic Research Service (ERS)Access to Farmland by Beginning and Socially Disadvantaged Farmers: Issues and Opportunities (AP-096, 2022)Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Suicide Rates by Industry and Occupation — MMWR (2023)CDC / NIOSHFarm community mental health and occupational risk research collectionsNational Young Farmers Coalition2022 survey and reporting on beginning farmer challenges, land access, and prioritiesSupport the show

Send a textWhy do some animals, places, and species inspire fierce protection… while others quietly disappear?In this episode of Barn & Soul, Kendall explores the real psychology behind conservation - not just the statistics and extinction charts, but the emotional bonds that actually move people to care, act, and protect. Drawing from conservation psychology, environmental research, and lived experience on a heritage-breed farm, this episode asks a deceptively simple question: why do we save what we love?From biophilia and nature connectedness to empathy, storytelling, and sense of place, we unpack why facts alone rarely change behavior... and why love, identity, and relationship are doing far more work than we tend to admit. You’ll hear how childhood experiences shape lifelong environmental values, why naming animals changes how people respond to conservation, and how heritage livestock breeds offer a powerful case study in saving what we understand.This episode blends research-backed insight with farm stories, offering a grounded, human-sized approach to conservation - one that doesn’t rely on guilt or fear, but on connection, memory, and care.Whether you’re a parent, educator, farmer, animal lover, or someone feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to save everything... you just have to love something enough to protect it.📚 Sources & Further ReadingWhitburn, J., Linklater, W., & Abrahamse, W. (2019). Meta-analysis of human connection to nature and pro-environmental behaviour. People and Nature.Kirkey, J. R. (2024). What’s love got to do with it? A biophilia-based approach to conservation. Frontiers in Conservation Science.Raymond, C. M. et al. (2025). The effect of empathy with nature and humans on conservation behaviour. Journal of Environmental Psychology.Chawla, L. (2020). Childhood nature connection and constructive hope. People and Nature.Oh, R. Y. Y. et al. (2021). Connection to nature predicted by family values, social norms, and experiences. Journal of Environmental Psychology.Castillo-Huitrón, N. M. et al. (2020). The importance of human emotions for wildlife conservation. Frontiers in Psychology.Batavia, C. et al. (2021). Emotion as a source of moral understanding in conservation. Conservation Biology.van Eeden, L. M. et al. (2025). Why do (or don’t) people protect nature? Global Environmental Psychology.Richardson, M. et al. (2020). Applying pathways to nature connectedness. Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education.The Livestock Conservancy. Conservation Genetics & Heritage Breeds.Farm Flavor (2024). What Are Heritage Breeds and Why Are They Important?CFSPH. Heritage Livestock Breeds – Why Are They Important?U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Sense of Place Supports Climate and Drought Resilience.Craig, G. (2023). Fight for the Wild: Emotion and place in conservation. Taylor & Francis.Fabien Cousteau interview (2017). “People protect what they love…” LUXUO.Support the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.  Episode 31 - Still Here at 165: Scituate, Stewardship, and the Future of DalbyDalby Farm turns 165 years old in 2026.Founded in 1861, this family farm has weathered generations of change in Scituate, Massachusetts. In this re entry episode, Kendall reflects on what it truly means to still be here, and why endurance is not the same as ease.This episode zooms out to place Dalby within the longer history of Scituate and the South Shore, then zooms back in to the daily realities of keeping a family farm and an endangered heritage breed mission alive in the modern world. Through real data, lived experience, and honest reflection, Kendall explores how farming has changed since the 19th century, why land pressure and aging producers matter, and what is quietly at risk when small farms disappear.Rather than romanticizing farm life, this conversation looks directly at responsibility, repetition, and care. It considers how stewardship evolves over time, why rare breeds require active commitment, and how shared responsibility may be the only sustainable path forward for farms like Dalby.This episode is for anyone who has ever looked at something they love and wondered how much longer they can carry it, and then chose to keep going anyway.ResourcesDalby Farm. Our Farm and Friends.https://www.dalbyfarm.com/our-farm-and-friendsUnited States Department of Agriculture. National Agricultural Statistics Service.2022 Census of Agriculture Executive Briefing.https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/index.phpUnited States Department of Agriculture. Economic Research Service.Farms and Land in Farms Summary.https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/farm-economy/farm-structure-and-organization/Choices Magazine.Analysis of the 2022 Census of Agriculture.https://www.choicesmagazine.orgMass Audubon. Losing Ground.2003 and 2020 Editions.https://www.massaudubon.org/our-work/advocacy/land-protection/losing-groundThe Livestock Conservancy. Conservation Priority List and Breed Definitions.https://livestockconservancy.org/conservation-priority-list/Scituate Historical Society.History of Scituate, Massachusetts.https://www.scituatehistoricalsociety.orgSupport the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 30 - Back From the Brink: Species We Thought Were Gone but.. Weren’t?What if extinction is not always the end of the story?In this episode of Barn & Soul, Kendall explores some of the most extraordinary conservation rediscoveries of the last century. These are animals and plants once declared extinct that quietly survived in hidden pockets of the world, waiting to be found again.From a prehistoric fish thought lost for 65 million years, to an insect rescued from a single rock in the Pacific, to species whose survival hinged on one accidental discovery, this episode examines what scientists call “Lazarus species” and why their return matters so deeply.Grounded in real science and conservation data, this conversation looks at how rediscovered species reshape ecosystems, influence land protection, and challenge the belief that loss is always permanent. Kendall reflects on what these stories teach us about resilience, stewardship, and the responsibility humans carry when life pushes back against the odds.This episode is a reminder that nature is not passive. She adapts, hides, endures, and sometimes reappears just when we think hope is gone. For farmers, conservationists, and anyone who loves the living world, these stories offer something rare and powerful: cautious, evidence-based optimism.Resources and Further ReadingInternational Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.https://www.iucnredlist.orgSmithsonian National Museum of Natural History.Coelacanth rediscovery and ongoing research.https://naturalhistory.si.eduCoelacanth Conservation Council.Population monitoring and conservation efforts.https://www.coelacanth.orgAustralian Museum and Lord Howe Island Board.Lord Howe Island stick insect rediscovery and breeding programs.https://australiamuseum.net.auhttps://www.lordhoweisland.infoNew Zealand Department of Conservation.Takahe rediscovery and recovery programs.https://www.doc.govt.nzU.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.Black-footed ferret recovery and reintroduction programs.https://www.fws.govRe:wild (formerly Global Wildlife Conservation).Lost species rediscoveries including the Somali elephant shrew.https://www.rewild.orgBirdLife International.Ivory-billed woodpecker assessments and conservation context.https://www.birdlife.orgNational Geographic Society.Lost Species documentation and field reporting.https://www.nationalgeographic.comSupport the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 29 - Good News, Earth! Environmental Wins You Might Have Missed in 2025This week on Barn & Soul, we’re doing something rare. Instead of doom and dread, we’re highlighting the real environmental progress that happened this year. These are stories backed by data, not optimism for its own sake. From major renewable energy milestones to wildlife recovery, coral resilience, textile innovation and community farming, this episode brings together some of the most encouraging developments of 2025.If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the headlines, this is your reminder that the world is still capable of healing and that conservation work has real impact.ReferencesRenewable EnergyInternational Energy Agency. Renewables 2025 Midyear Report.MIT Energy Initiative. Agrivoltaics research findings 2025.US Department of Energy. Solar Circularity Initiative.National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Solar lifecycle analyses.Textile RecyclingEuropean Environment Agency. Circular materials and textile recycling update 2025.Wildlife CorridorsNational Park Service and USGS. Wildlife Connectivity Report 2025.Federal Highway Administration. Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program.Environment America. Wildlife collision cost savings analyses.Scioto Analysis. Cost benefit findings for wildlife crossing projects.The Wildlife Society. Collision reduction data.Coral and Ocean HealthNOAA Coral Reef Watch. Annual bleaching and recovery summary 2025.The Ocean Cleanup. 2025 Impact Report.NOAA Marine Debris Program. Coastal cleanup participation and plastic recovery data.UNEP Coastal Initiatives. River barrier effectiveness studies.Urban AgricultureUSDA Urban Agriculture Census Addendum 2025.Species RecoveryUS Fish and Wildlife Service. Recovery Update 2025.NOAA Fisheries. North Atlantic right whale monitoring.California Condor Recovery Program. Annual chick survival summary.USGS Amphibian Research Center. Wetland restoration impacts.Listen in for the Fast Facts, the full stories, and a closing reflection meant to help you exhale and feel hopeful again.🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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-shopSupport the show

Send a text🎙 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 We’re Letting Them DisappearIn 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 — take care, and don’t forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.ResourcesLivestock ConservancyBreed status reports and conservation priority listings for heritage livestock.www.livestockconservancy.orgFAOGlobal assessments of livestock diversity, agricultural biodiversity, and genetic erosion.www.fao.orgOur World in DataTrends in livestock populations, agriculture, and genetic resource loss.www.ourworldindata.orgUSDA National Animal Germplasm ProgramInformation on genetic diversity, rare breed preservation, and cryo-conservation research.www.ars.usda.govSlow Food International – Ark of TasteDocumentation of heritage breeds and traditional food cultures at risk.www.slowfood.comAmerican Sheep Industry AssociationBreed histories and genetic value of heritage sheep, including Shetland.www.sheepusa.orgRare Breeds Survival Trust (UK)Annual “Watchlist” reports and data on heritage breed declines and recoveries.www.rbst.org.ukUniversity of Missouri Center for AgroforestryResearch on biodiversity, resilient livestock systems, and small-farm conservation models.Smithsonian MagazineArticles on domesticated animal history and the cultural value of heritage livestock.National GeographicFeatures on animal domestication, rare breeds, and agricultural biodiversity.🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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! httpsSupport the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 27- Maybe You Shouldn’t Be a Farmer (and that's okay!) Farming looks peaceful from the outside… 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 that’s 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.ReferencesAmerican Farm Bureau Federation.Farmer and Rancher Mental Health: Research Findings and Rural Stress Indicators. Washington, DC: AFBF, 2022.Cornell Cooperative Extension.“Diversified Farm Income, Stress Management, and Burnout Prevention.”Cornell University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Ithaca, NY.Farm Aid.Farmers’ Stress and Financial Vulnerability: Annual Report on Family Farm Wellbeing. Cambridge, MA: Farm Aid Research Division, 2023.FAO — 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.“Realistic Expectations for New Farmers: Startup, Labor, and Livestock Care.”College of Agricultural Sciences, Pennsylvania State University.UMaine Cooperative Extension.“Livestock Care and Farm Management in New England Winters.”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.🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt least 50% of all shop revenue directly helps fund the care & upkeep of our 160 year old educational family farm and alSupport the show

Send a text🎙 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 — What Winter Really Does to a FarmWinter 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 freeze–thaw 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.References USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)USDA Soil Science DivisionU.S. Forest ServiceThe Livestock ConservancyPoultry Science programs (University of Minnesota, University of Georgia)NOAA and Northeast Regional Climate Center🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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-shopSupport the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.There’s something timeless about a child’s 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 children’s 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 you’re a parent, educator, or animal lover, this episode offers insight into how farms can serve as classrooms for life’s most important lessons.Fast Facts• Children who interact regularly with animals show up to 30% higher empathy scores by age six (Frontiers in Psychology, 2023).• Exposure to animals before age ten correlates with greater environmental awareness and compassion in adulthood (University of Cambridge, 2021).• Caring for animals increases self-regulation and patience in preschool-aged children, measurable even after short-term exposure (Journal of Applied Developmental Science, 2022).• Farms and petting zoos act as “micro-ecosystems of learning,” teaching respect for nature through sensory engagement and gentle boundary-setting (Early Childhood Research Quarterly, 2023).• 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).• 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).📚 Resources and BibliographyFrontiers in Psychology. (2023). Early Animal Interaction and Empathy Development in Children. LinkUniversity of Cambridge. (2021). Childhood Exposure to Animals and Environmental Awareness. LinkJournal of Applied Developmental Science. (2022). Short-Term Animal Care Activities and Preschool Self-Regulation. LinkEarly Childhood Research Quarterly. (2023). Farms as Micro-Ecosystems of Learning. LinkNational Wildlife Federation. (2024). Survey on Children, Outdoor Time, and Nature-Based Programs. LinkUniversity of Denver, Institute for Human-Animal Connection. (2024). Longitudinal Study of Early Animal-Based Education. Link🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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 insSupport the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 24: “The Cost of Care: A Personal Reckoning with  Animals, Land and Life”In this episode, I don’t stick to the usual form. I’m 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, it’s 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 you’ve 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. It’s not solutions-focused, it’s honesty-focused.📚 Resources and BibliographyOfficial statistics / governmentUSDA NASS (2022). Census of Agriculture: Female Producers (Highlights PDF). U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service. https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Highlights/2024/Census22_HL_FemaleProducers.pdfUSDA 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-protectionResearch and scholarly articlesPenn State University (2024). Coverage of study on the “triple burden” of invisible labor as a major stressor for farm women. Search “triple burden farm women Penn State” via Penn State NewsMDPI, Núñez, P. G. (2020). Rural women’s invisible work in census and state records: Recognition and visibility. Land 9(3), 92. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-445X/9/3/92FAO / UN (2022). Global livestock impact overview. http://www.fao.org/livestock-environmentEnvironmental and land-focused resourcesMass Audubon (2015). Losing Ground: Open Space in Massachusetts. https://www.massaudubon.org/our-conservation-work/land-conservation/losing-groundMetropolitan 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.orgPlastic and pollution contextNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Marine Debris Program overview. https://marinedebris.noaa.gov/EPA (2022). Plastics: Material-Specific Data. https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-Support the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul Podcast - Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 23-  Women, Wives, and the Working FarmThis week, we’re shining a light on the women who built, ran, and quietly revolutionized small farms across America — from the 1800s to today. From home demonstration agents and “farmerettes” to modern conservation leaders, this episode explores how women’s invisible work shaped the backbone of rural life.Kendall shares some history, the hard numbers, and a personal reflection on how Dalby Farm’s mission was transformed in the early 2000s by her mother — and how that legacy continues today through her own work and ventures.💚 Highlights include:• The “triple burden” of women’s agricultural labor• The Women’s Land Army and its wartime impact• Why female farmers are the fastest-growing group in U.S. agriculture• The women who turned care into curriculum — and legacy into action📚 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). 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 “triple burden” of invisible labor as a major stressor for farm women. (Available via Penn State News - search “triple burden farm women Penn State.”)Núñez, P. G. (2020). -Rural Women’s 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 Women’s Land Army exhibits - photos, diaries, and primary documents on women’s 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/ “To the Rescue of the Crops: The Women’s Land Army During World War II.” 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) 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).-“Women on the Farm” 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-storeAt 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-shopSupport the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – 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 AnimalsWhat does it really mean to care for animals in captivity — 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 — and beyond.You’ll also hear about real-world examples of animals being recognized as more than property, from Argentina’s landmark case granting personhood to an orangutan, to India’s legal protections for river dolphins.This isn’t about guilt — it’s about awareness, compassion, and a willingness to keep doing better. 🐐💭Fast Facts:🌍 Over 70 billion animals are farmed each year, most in industrial settings (FAO, 2024)🐐 Goats can remember human faces for a year or more (University of London, 2018)🐘 Some animals — like elephants and dolphins — show self-awareness through the mirror test (National Geographic, 2023)⚖️ Legal personhood for animals is gaining momentum around the world (Science.org, 2023)🎧 Whether you work with animals, love them deeply, or simply want to understand the ethics behind human–animal relationships, this episode invites you to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what it means to truly care.Until next time — take care, and don’t forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life. 💛📚 References & Sources1. Global Farmed Animal StatisticsFood and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), 2024“The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2024”https://www.fao.org/state-of-fisheries-aquaculture2. Goat Facial Recognition and Memory StudyNawroth, C., Ebersbach, M., von Borell, E., & Langbein, J. (2018)“Goats excel at learning and remembering human faces”Royal Society Open Sciencehttps://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.1804223. Self-Awareness in Animals – Mirror TestNational Geographic, 2023“Mirror Test and Self-Awareness in Animals”https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/animals-mirror-self-recognition4. Legal Personhood for AnimalsScience.org, 2023“Animal Legal Personhood Gains Momentum Worldwide”https://www.science.org/content/article/animal-legal-personhood-gains-momentum-worldwide5. U.S. Survey on Legal Protections for Farm AnimalsASPCA, 2021“Public Opinion on Farm Animal Welfare”https://www.aspca.org/animal-protection/public-opinion-farm-animal-welfare6. Sandra the Orangutan Legal Personhood CaseBBC News, 2015“Sandra the Orangutan Wins Legal Personhood in Argentina”https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-317191377. Pet Trusts and Animal Inheritance ExamplesForbes, 2021“The Most Expensive Pets: Animals Who Inherited Millions”https://www.forbes.com/sites/legalentertainment/2021/09/07/the-most-expensive-pets/?sh=3e8eec975e678. Legal Personhood for Ganges River Dolphins and Forests in IndiaThe Guardian, 2017“India Grants River Dolphins Legal Rights to Protect Them”https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2017/mar/21/india-grants-legal-rights-to-ganges-river-dolphins🎉SHOP FALL at the Dalby Farm Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-store/summer-autumn🔔 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 @DaSupport the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul Podcast: Episode 21 -  Barnyard Superstitions: Luck, Omens, and Old Wives’ TalesHey friends, it’s Kendall! 🐓✨ Today we’re diving into the wonderfully weird world of barnyard superstitions — 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 — farms have always been full of omens and little secrets.We’ll wander through barns, peek into history, and uncover how humans have always tried to find meaning in the everyday — all while learning to notice the quiet wisdom of animals. 🐐🦆🦉Whether you’re a farm lover, history nerd, or just someone who likes a little magic with their morning coffee ☕, this one’s for you!🌾 Fast Facts & Highlights Horseshoes weren’t just decoration — they were luck-catchers and spirit-shielders. Roman sacred chickens once dictated whether armies marched or stayed home — no kidding. Black sheep could be either bad luck… or highly prized. Perspective matters.Swallows nesting in your barn = prosperity vibes. Don’t disturb them! Frogs in milk pails? 19th-century superstition said butter would be ruined.Farmers were basically early scientists — observing animals, weather, and plants to make sense of the world.New episodes every Wednesday at 9pm EST!📚 References / BibliographyEbeling, 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).Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul - Episode 20Farm Instincts: What Animals Know Before We Do (And How We Forgot)Animals notice things long before we do - whether it’s 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 we’re willing to listen. We’ll 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, we’ll uncover fascinating “fast facts,” like why goats prefer smiling faces, how rabbits sense seismic vibrations, and ponder why cows act like living compasses.✨ Whether you’re a farmer, animal lover, or just curious about the instincts we’ve forgotten, this episode is a reminder that animals are often our earliest, wisest messengers.🐐 Tune in for Episode 20 of Barn & Soul—and learn what your animals might already know.We are back from hiatus! New episodes every Wednesday at 9pm EST!#BarnAndSoul #FarmLife #AnimalInstincts #DalbyFarm📚 References & SourcesDogs sensing storms and barometric pressureWeather.com, “How Dogs Sense Storms,” 2025https://weather.com/nature/wild-animals/news/2025-03-25-how-dogs-sense-stormsBirds sensing infrasound and adjusting flightNational Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), “Five Faunal Forecasters: Can Animals Predict Weather?”https://www.neefusa.org/story/climate-change/five-faunal-forecasters-can-animals-predict-weatherToads predicting earthquakes by leaving breeding grounds earlyThe Guardian, “Toads Could Sense Earthquakes, Study Finds,” March 2010https://www.theguardian.com/science/2010/mar/31/toads-detect-earthquakes-studyDogs detecting lung cancer with high accuracyAmerican Osteopathic Association, “Cancer-Sniffing Dogs 97% Accurate in Identifying Lung Cancer,” June 2019https://osteopathic.org/2019/06/17/cancer-sniffing-dogs-97-accurate-in-identifying-lung-cancer-according-to-study-in-the-journal-of-the-american-osteopathic-association/Dogs detecting diseases through scent (diabetes, seizures, COVID-19)Owlstone Medical Blog, “Dogs and Smelling Cancer,” 2024https://www.owlstonemedical.com/blog/dogs-and-smelling-cancerAnimals detecting natural disasters (P-waves, electromagnetic shifts)Times of India, “5 Animals That Can Sense Natural Disasters Before They Strike,” 2023https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/5-animals-that-can-sense-natural-disSupport the show

Send a textWelcome 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.🐑 Featuring insights on Dalby Farm’s origin and why green spaces- and rare breeds- matter more than ever.☀️ Grab a warm drink and take a walk back in time with us.—📚 References & SourcesTown of Scituate, MA – Historical Archiveshttps://www.scituatema.govMassachusetts Historical Commission – Cultural Resource Info System (MACRIS)https://mhc-macris.net/Scituate Historical Society – Local history, maps, and Revolutionary War recordshttps://scituatehistoricalsociety.orgMassachusetts State Archives – Records of early colonial settlements and town chartershttps://www.sec.state.ma.us/arc/Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) – Tribal history and land acknowledgmentshttps://www.wampanoagtribe-nsn.gov/U.S. Lighthouse Society – Scituate Lighthouse Historyhttps://uslhs.orgNational Park Service – Maritime Heritage in Massachusettshttps://www.nps.gov/subjects/maritime/maritime-massachusetts.htmDalby Farm Archives & Oral Histories (internal/family documentation)Support the show

Send a text🐔✨ The Sacred Chicken: Myths, Magic, and Mystery | Barn & Soul Podcast- Ep. 18When 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 world’s most common bird.From ancient Rome’s “sacred chickens” 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.🪶 Whether you're a history lover, farm enthusiast, or just curious about animal folklore, this episode is for you.📚 Sources & ReferencesA full list of scholarly and cultural references is available at the end of the episode and in the comments.📍 Visit Dalby Farm (Scituate, MA):https://www.dalbyfarm.com📷 Follow along for more farm life, rare breeds & reflections:Find us on Instagram: @dalbyfarm🙏 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.#BarnAndSoul #DalbyFarm #ChickenMythology #AnimalFolklore #SacredAnimals #Chickens #Podcast📚 Episode References & Sources🐔 General History of ChickensWest, B., & Zhou, B.-X. (1989). Did chickens go North? New evidence for domestication. World's Poultry Science Journal, 45(3), 205–218.Smithsonian Magazine. A brief history of the chicken.https://www.smithsonianmag.com⚔️ Ancient Rome & Sacred ChickensCornell, T. J. (1995). The Beginnings of Rome: Italy and Rome from the Bronze Age to the Punic Wars.Livy, Ab Urbe Condita (primary source on Roman augury and Claudius Pulcher's famous chicken defiance).Mental Floss. Ancient Romans Took Battle Orders From Sacred Chickens.https://www.mentalfloss.com🇨🇳 China - The Five Virtues of the RoosterThe Book of Rites (Liji)  Confucian classic referencing the symbolic traits of animals.Chinese Zodiac and Rooster symbolism via China HighlightsZhou, D. (2014). Animals in Chinese Culture and Mythology. Beijing University Press.⛩️ Japan  Amaterasu and the RoosterAston, W. G. (1896). Shinto: The Way of the Gods.Hardacre, H. (2016). Shinto: A History. Oxford University Press.The Japan Times. The rooster that called the sun goddess.https://www.japantimes.co.jp🌍 Africa, Haiti, and the Spirit WorldBrown, K. M. (2001). Mama Lola: A Vodou Priestess in Brooklyn. University of California Press.Murphy, J. M. (1994). Working the Spirit: Ceremonies of the African Diaspora. Beacon Press.National Museum of African American History and Culture. African spirituality and symbolism in animal rituals.https://nmaahc.si.edu✝️ Christianity, Roosters, and Weather VanSupport the show

Send a textBarn & Soul – Episode 17🎙️ The Invisible Work of Farm Animals: More Than Meat, Milk, and EggsWhen most people think about farm animals, they picture food—eggs, meat, milk. But that’s 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 us—they’ve walked alongside us.Join me as we take a heart-centered journey through the history, labor, and quiet legacy of the animals who’ve given humanity far more than we often realize.🐐 Wool as survival gear🐄 Cattle as currency🐎 Animal-powered labor🐖 Emotional connection & therapeutic presenceLet’s slow down, honor their impact, and reconnect with the invisible work that still matters today.📚 References & SourcesInternational Wool Textile Organization (IWTO) Wool and Sustainability Report 2023 https://iwto.org/wool-sustainabilityFood and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations Livestock and Cultural Heritage https://www.fao.org/livestockNational Institutes of Health (NIH) Animal-Assisted Therapy: Effects on Stress, Anxiety, and Depression (2020–2024) 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/jasNational Geographic Education The Role of Animals in Human History https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/animals-and-humans-through-timeSmithsonian Magazine “Chickens and the Invention of Capital” https://www.smithsonianmag.comAmerican Psychological Association (APA) Animal-Assisted Therapy in Clinical Settings: Meta-Analysis and Review https://www.apa.orgBBC Travel & History “Why Wool Was Once More Valuable Than Gold” https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20220201-wool-warmth-wealthSupport the show

Send a text🎙 Barn & Soul – Episode 16: The Future of Farming: How Technology and Tradition Can CoexistIn 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 agriculture—and 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.👇 Fast Facts in This Episode:🔹 Global food production must increase by 60% by 2050 (FAO, 2017)🔹 Precision agriculture can boost yields up to 70% (McKinsey, 2020)🔹 Small farms produce 70% of the world’s food on just 25% of land (IFAD, 2019)🔹 Rare breeds like the Ossabaw Island Hog support climate resilience and food security🎧 Listen in to discover how Dalby Farm’s rare breeds, regenerative practices, and soul-first approach to farming fit into a more resilient food system—and how you can be part of the solution, even in your own backyard.🌱 References & Resources:FAO (2017). The Future of Food and Agriculture. LinkMcKinsey (2020). Agriculture’s Digital Future. LinkThe Livestock Conservancy (2024). LinkIFAD (2019). Smallholders and Food Security. LinkRodale Institute (2022). Soil Health and Organic Farming. LinkSlow Food Foundation (2023). Traditional Farming and Cultural Heritage. LinkAmerican Humane (2023). Farm Animal Welfare Standards. LinkAgFunderNews (2024). Automation in Agriculture. LinkNature Sustainability (2023). AI & Big Data in Farming. LinkScience Magazine (2023). Gene Editing in Agriculture. LinkSmall Farm Tech Review (2024). LinkRare Breeds Survival Trust (2023). LinkJournal of Food Science (2024). Blockchain & Food Traceability. LinkOpen Source Ag Tech (2023). LinkSupport the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Welcome back to Barn & Soul! I’m Kendall, and today we’re tackling a big question: Who decides which animals get to survive?Here at Dalby Farm in Scituate, MA, we care for rare and endangered livestock—animals most people have never even heard of. And that’s 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.You’ll learn:🐖 Why some breeds get conservation funding—and others don’t🐄 The shocking truth about America’s dairy cow gene pool🧬 How losing livestock diversity puts our entire food system at risk📜 Why stories—not just science—decide which animals survive🧡 And what YOU can do to help, even if you don’t live on a farmThese animals are more than curiosities—they’re history, resilience, and genetic insurance for the future. Let’s talk about why saving rare farm animals matters now more than ever.👇 Drop a comment and tell us: Have you ever met a rare breed before?🔗 RESOURCES MENTIONEDThe Livestock Conservancy: https://livestockconservancy.orgAmerican Pastured Poultry Producers: https://apppa.orgSlow Food Ark of Taste: https://slowfoodusa.org/ark-of-tasteRare Breeds Survival Trust (UK): https://www.rbst.org.uk🎧 Full podcast available every Wednesday night at 9PM EST — right here on YouTube!Support the show

Send a textThey once dotted every rural road—now, small farms are vanishing from our landscapes and our lives. What happened?In this episode of Barn & Soul, we journey through the history of America’s small farms—from the golden age of agriculture to the rise of industrial farming—and 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:🌾 The surprising statistics behind the decline of small farms🏡 How suburban sprawl, rising land prices, and global markets contributed🐓 Why backyard chickens and farm content are actually part of a hopeful shift📍 The story of Dalby Farm’s resilience—and what it represents for the futureWhether you’re 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. Let’s talk about what that means.🎧 Listen now and help us honor what’s rare, resilient, and rooted in community.Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.  Some survivors don’t wear capes—they 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 Zealand’s Arapawa Island—and even a rabbit breed saved by everyday backyard heroes—these animals are more than just rare. They’re resilient.You'll learn:🐖 The 400-year tale of the Ossabaw Island hog🐐 How Arapawa goats survived isolation and eradication🐇 Why the American Chinchilla rabbit nearly vanished—and who brought it back📉 Why genetic diversity in livestock matters more than ever🌍 How industrial agriculture threatens the traits that could save usWith 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 action—because preserving rare breeds isn’t about nostalgia… it’s about survival.🎧 Tune in to learn how you can help write the next chapter.Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul Podcast: Episode 12 — "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 landscape—and 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 it’s not all bad news.We’ll also explore how heritage farmers, conservation groups, and even everyday consumers are fighting back—preserving biodiversity, supporting resilient food systems, and safeguarding our future.If you’ve ever wondered why places like Dalby Farm exist—or how your choices can make a real difference—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.✨ Topics Covered:Why monocultures dominate modern farming (and why that’s risky)The hidden costs of industrial livestock breedingHow rare breeds hold the key to climate resilienceWhat heritage farming looks like todayActionable steps you can take to help preserve biodiversityEvery rare breed saved is a future possibility preserved.Let’s fight for a future that’s as rich, diverse, and resilient as the land itself.🎧 Listen now—and don’t forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.#BarnAndSoul #HeritageBreeds #ModernFarming #Biodiversity #SustainableFarmingReferences FAO, "The State of the World's Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture"USDA Economic Research ServiceLivestock Conservancy official siteSlow Food USA, Ark of Taste project"The Omnivore's Dilemma" by Michael PollanFood and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations global food biodiversity reports Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – 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"🐐When 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 — sometimes faster than wildlife. In this episode, we're digging into the lesser-known side of conservation: saving endangered farm animals.🔹We’ll 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.🐓At 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. Thanks for being here — and for caring about the rare and wonderful things in life. 🌿 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📚 Cited Sources:The Livestock Conservancy, Conservation Priority List 2024UN FAO, State of the World's Animal Genetic Resources (2007, 2013)American Livestock Breeds Conservancy publicationsThe Livestock Conservancy, Why Save Rare Breeds? (https://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/why-heritage-breeds/)🔔 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.Support the show

Send a text🐐 BONUS EPISODE #2: Endangered but Extraordinary – Meet the Arapawa Island Goat | Barn & Soul PodcastIn this special Barn & Soul Bonus Episode, we’re diving into the story of one of the world’s 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 history—and we’re honored to call a few of them family here at Dalby Farm.🌿 Fast facts✅ Fewer than 300 purebred Arapawas exist globally✅ Descended from goats left by Captain James Cook in the 1770s✅ Critically endangered as listed by The Livestock Conservancy✅ Naturally hardy, intelligent, and adapted to rugged terrain🎧 In this episode:🧭 The origin story of the Arapawa Goat📜 The Captain Cook connection and centuries of survival🐾 Their role at Dalby Farm as conservation ambassadors💡 What makes them different from commercial goat breeds🏡 Care tips for Arapawas and goats in general💔 Why their preservation matters for biodiversity and future farmingWhether you’re 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.🔗 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.🐓 Support Our WorkVisit our Country Store – over 50% of every purchase directly supports the care of endangered animals like the Arapawa Goat.📣 Stay Connected👉 Subscribe for more bonus episodes & rare breed spotlights📸 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @DalbyFarm🎙️ Full Barn & Soul podcast episodes drop Wednesdays at 9 PM EST🙏 Thanks for watching and helping us preserve the rare and wonderful things in life.Until next time, take care—and don’t forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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#ArapawaGoat #BarnAndSoul #DalbyFarm #RareBreedConservation #FarmPodcast #HeritageBreeds #LivestockConservation #CaptainCook #SustainableFarming #GoatLoversSupport the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – 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 🚨 Disclaimer: This episode discusses the emotional topic of animal loss and may be difficult for some listeners. 🕊️Grieving an animal is a deep and powerful experience—yet so often, it’s 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.We’ll explore real psychological research that explains why animal grief feels just as profound as human grief, and we’ll reflect on how moving forward with love honors the animals we’ve lost. Whether your bond was with a dog, a pig, a duck, or a turtle—this space is for you.💛🚨 Disclaimer: This episode discusses the emotional topic of animal loss and may be difficult for some listeners.🔹 In This Episode:-The story of Nate, our beloved Mini-Nubian goat, and his quiet impact-Why a goat kid's loss changed Dalby Farm’s 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 we’ve lost-Why resilience, hope, and compassion are essential to farming and life📚 Key References:-American Psychological Association (APA): Pet loss and grief comparable to human bereavement (Quackenbush & Glickman, 2021)-Anthrozoös 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✨ If you're healing from the loss of an animal today, you are not alone. Your love mattered—and still does.🐐 Subscribe for more reflections on farm life, conservation, and the bond between humans and animals.🎧 Listen to the full Barn & Soul podcast series here https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX9sUsZxbT39khhG3Geol6ZON7FzyO4iG🌻 Learn more about Dalby Farm’s endangered breed mission: DalbyFarm.com#BarnAndSoul #PetLoss #AnimalGrief #FarmLife #DalbyFarm #Conservation #GriefHealing #AnimalLove———💛 If you’re grieving an animal right now, know you’re 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.🎧 Subscribe to Barn & Soul for more reflections on animals, nature, and the human spirit.🌾 Learn more about Dalby Farm and our conservation work: 🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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.Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – 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 companions—they were our partners in survival. But as technology surged forward, did we lose sight of the role they played?In this episode, we explore:🔹 Oxen, plows, and power — how draft animals revolutionized early agriculture🔹 Chickens in war zones?! — the surprising military history of poultry🔹 Spiritual symbolism — pigs, goats, and sheep in ancient cultures🔹 How rare heritage breeds preserve our past🔹 Real-life stories from our own animals at Dalby Farm, including:  🐐 Arapawa Island Goats — island survivalists with a wild legacy  🐖 Ossabaw Island Hogs — descended from Spanish explorer pigs  🐇 American Blue & Chinchilla Rabbits — bred for utility, now endangered  🐓 Australorp Chickens — record-setting egg layers with Australian roots  🦃 Royal Palm Turkeys — prized for their beauty and calm nature  🐑 Shetland Sheep — tough, tiny sheep with a Scottish soulWe also talk about why teaching the next generation about rare breeds matters more than ever—because a compassionate future starts with understanding the past 🧡🎙️ Whether you're a fellow farm soul or just curious about the hidden history behind the animals we love, this one's for you.🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a question for a future episode!New Episodes: Wednesdays at 9PM EST📚 References & Sources:🔹 Rare Breeds Conservation Society of New Zealand – Arapawa Island Goathttps://www.rarebreeds.co.nz/arapawa.html🔹 The Livestock Conservancy – Arapawa Goathttps://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/arapawa-goat/🔹 University of Georgia Marine Institute – Ossabaw Islandhttps://ugami.uga.edu/ossabaw-island/🔹The Livestock Conservancy – Ossabaw Island Hoghttps://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/ossabaw-island-hog/🔹American Rabbit Breeders Associationhttps://arba.net/🔹The Livestock Conservancy – American Blue Rabbithttps://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/american-blue-rabbit/🔹The Livestock Conservancy – American Chinchilla Rabbithttps://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/american-chinchilla-rabbit/🔹The Livestock Conservancy – Australorphttps://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/australorp/🔹Oklahoma State University Breeds Archive – Royal Palm Turkeyhttps://breeds.okstate.edu/poultry/turkeys/royal-palm/index.html🔹The Livestock Conservancy – Royal Palm Turkeyhttps://livestockconservancy.org/heritage-breeds/heritage-breeds-list/royal-palm-turkey/🔹Shetland Sheep Society (UK)https://www.shetland-sheep.org.uk/🔹North American Shetland Sheep Associationhttps://www.nassasheep.org/FAO DAD-IS Breed Databasehttps://www.fao.org/dad-is/🔹 Clutton-Brock, Juliet. Animals as Domesticates: A World View. University of California Press, 2012.🔹Serpell, James. The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behavior and Interactions with People. Cambridge University Press, 1995.🔹 McNeill, J.R. & McNeill, William H. The Human Web: A Bird's-Eye View of World History. W.W. Norton & Company, 2003.🔹 Smithsonian Magazine – “How Animals Have Shaped Human History”https://www.smithsonianmag.com/🔹 National WWII Museum – “Animals in War”https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/animals-warLouv, Richard. Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-🔹 DefiSupport the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.  Episode 8 Saving the Most Endangered Goat in the World: The Arapawa Island Goat 🌍🏴‍☠️ What do pirates,  British sailors ⚓, and a rugged New Zealand island 🏝️ have in common? They all played a part in the story of the Arapawa Island Goat—one of the rarest goats on Earth, with fewer than 1k left worldwide in 2025. 😱In this episode, we explore:🔍 The mysterious origin of the Arapawa breed🌿 How they survived in isolation for centuries🚨 Why they’re critically endangered today🐐 Stories of Sheldon (our current buck) & Saturn (our first baby Arapawa, born at Dalby in the early 2000s)💚 Why preserving this breed matters—for biodiversity, for education, and for future generationsArapawas are more than just rare—they're living history. And at Dalby Farm, we’re doing everything we can to protect them. 🫶🎧 Tune in, learn something new, and maybe fall in love with an underdog goat. Don’t forget to like, subscribe & share if you believe rare breeds deserve a future too. 💫#BarnAndSoul #ArapawaGoat #RareBreeds #HeritageFarm #FarmLife #ConservationMatters #DalbyFarm #EndangeredSpecies #AnimalLovers🔔 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-storeAt 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.Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 7-  Reconnecting with What We’ve Forgotten | Barn & Soul Podcast.✨  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 isn’t just cute—it’s essential. For our children. For the future. For all of us.🧠 Topics include:– The role of sensory connection in childhood development– Why we’re becoming emotionally disconnected from nature– How animal care fosters empathy and emotional regulation– What Dalby Farm is doing to inspire the next generation of protectorsWhether you’re a parent, teacher, animal lover, or just someone longing to feel a little more connected again, this one’s for you.📚 References & Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeLouv, Richard. Last Child in the WoodsAmerican Psychological Association – Pets & Mental Health➤ https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2011/petsChawla, Louise. “Significant Life Experiences…” Environmental Education Research, 1998Harvard Health – The Health Benefits of Pets➤ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-health-benefits-of-petsChildren & Nature Network➤ https://www.childrenandnature.orgJournal of Pediatric Nursing – Animal-Assisted InterventionsNational Wildlife Federation – Green Time for Kids➤ https://www.nwf.org/Kids-and-Family/Connecting-Kids-and-Nature/Health-Benefits🦙 Learn more about Dalby Farm’s rare breed mission and educational programming:👉 www.dalbyfarm.com💚 Like, share, and subscribe if you believe in the power of animals to change lives.Until next time, take care—and don’t forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life.#BarnAndSoul #DalbyFarm #NatureConnection #AnimalTherapy #Podcast #ChildhoodDevelopment #RareBreedConservation #NatureEducation #EmpathyThroughAnimals🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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.Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. Episode 6Hollywood vs. Reality: The Truth About Farm Life.🎬 From dreamy farm scenes in Babe and Charlotte’s Web to the curated calm of social media reels, today we’re pulling back the curtain on how farming is portrayed—and misrepresented—in pop culture. 🐔 What does real farm life look like behind the filters and the fiction? What do animal movies get right… and where do they go wildly off course? And why does it matter? In this episode, we explore: • The impact of romanticized farm imagery• How influencers shape perceptions (guilty as charged!)• What Clarkson’s Farm, The Biggest Little Farm, and Gunda get right• The real emotional, physical, and financial toll of running a working farm• And how this all affects animal empathy, policy, and small farm survival.If you’ve ever dreamt of trading city life for a barn and a pasture, or if you just love animals and want to see them honored honestly—you’ll love this one.📲 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share to help support Dalby Farm’s mission to protect rare and endangered farm breeds.🐐 Until next time, take care—and don’t 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🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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.Support the show

Send a text✨  Bonus Episode! ✨🎙️ Barn & Soul – Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future. ❤️ All About Chickens: A Complete Guide to Raising Happy Backyard Birds🎥Every 5 episodes or so, we’ll 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. 🐐🐓🦆 From rare breeds to farm favorites, you’ll get a closer look at the personalities who inspire everything we do. Keep an eye out—you won’t want to miss it! Today:🐔 Thinking about raising chickens—or just love these feathered friends? In this episode of Barn & Soul, we’re diving into everything you need to know about chicken keeping, from tiny chicks to sweet senior hens.We’ll cover:🐣 Brooder basics for healthy chicks🏡 Setting up the perfect coop🍽️ Feeding tips (and what treats to avoid!)🥚 Understanding egg-laying and molting🧼 Daily and weekly care routines👵 How to help senior hens thrive❤️ Why chickens make amazing, unforgettable petsAlong the way, we’ll share fun facts (like how chickens recognize over 100 faces! 😲) and simple tips to keep your flock safe, happy, and healthy. Whether you’re just getting started or knee-deep in feathers already, this episode will have you feeling confident and connected to the world of backyard chickens. 🧡📚  Episode References:Archer, G. (2019). "Natural behaviors of chickens: Dust bathing, foraging, and perching." Poultry Science, 98(10), 3995–4005.Smith, C.L., & Zielinski, S.L. (2020). "Brain size, behavior, and cognition in domesticated chickens." Animal Cognition, 23(2), 407–417.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.🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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 thereSupport the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.  Episode 5 - Farm Animals' Secret Language: How Do They Communicate?🐓 Ever wondered what your chickens, goats, or sheep are really saying?  In this episode, we decode the secret language of farm animals! 🐐 From clucks to bleats, learn how our farm friends communicate through vocalizations, body language, and more. 🦢💬🎤 What You'll Learn:• 🐔 Chickens have over 30 different vocalizations!• 🐐 Goats recognize each other’s voices and use bleats for communication.• 🐑 Sheep can remember human faces for years!• 🦆 Ducks & geese have their own chatter and unique calls.• 🧠 How understanding these signs helps with animal welfare!If you’ve ever wanted to understand what your farm animals are saying, this episode is for you! 🎧📲 Don’t forget to hit subscribe for more fun animal insights!🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode!Until next time, take care—and don’t forget to appreciate the rare and wonderful things in life. 🌟#BarnAndSoul #DalbyFarm #FarmAnimals #AnimalCommunication #HeritageBreeds #FarmLife #AnimalLovers #Goats #Chickens #Sheep #Ducks #Geese #FarmWisdom🔗 Resources & Further Reading* The Livestock Conservancy – Learn more about rare and endangered farm breeds: https://livestockconservancy.org* Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) – Global reports on livestock biodiversity: http://www.fao.org* American Poultry Association (APA) – Official breed standards for heritage poultry: https://amerpoultryassn.com* National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) – Advocacy for regenerative farming: https://sustainableagriculture.net* National Geographic – Studies on animal intelligence & behavior: https://www.nationalgeographic.com* American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA) – Facts about goat behavior and care: https://adga.org* ASPCA – Truth about free-range and cage-free labels: https://www.aspca.org* Rare Breeds Survival Trust – Conservation of endangered livestock breeds: https://www.rbst.org.uk🐓 Dalby Farm-Specific Breeds:* Australorp Chickens – Once threatened, now thriving thanks to conservation.* Royal Palm Turkeys – Excellent foragers with strong survival instincts.* Arapawa Island Goats – One of the rarest goat breeds, with fewer than 500 worldwide.* American Chinchilla Rabbits – Nearly extinct but known for their dense fur and docile nature.* Shetland Sheep – Naturally water-resistant wool and highly adaptable.📧 Want to be the first to know about farm updates? Subscribe to our newsletter!🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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.Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – Where farming meets heart, history, and a mission to preserve the past for a more sustainable future.  Episode 4 - Farm Myths Uncovered: Fact or Fiction?🐷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.🔹 Why pigs are cleaner than you think 🐷🔹 The truth about goats’ picky eating habits 🐐🔹 Why heritage breeds are essential for biodiversity 🌱🔹 What “free-range” and “cage-free” labels really mean 🥚🔹 And more!Join me, Kendall, as we separate some farm facts from fiction!📖 References:📌 National Geographic (2018) – Studies on pig intelligence 🧠📌 Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (2020) – Livestock breed extinction rates 🌍📌 ASPCA (2021) – Labeling differences between “free-range” and “cage-free” 🏷️💬 Got a farm-related myth you want me to cover? Let me know! And if you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share with a fellow farm or animal lover.🔗 Support our mission: Visit DalbyFarm.com & follow us on social media!#BarnAndSoul #FarmMyths #HeritageBreeds #SustainableFarming #FarmLife #PigFacts #GoatWisdom #SupportSmallFarms🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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.Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – 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)🐑From the biggest drama queens to the sweetest snuggle bugs, every animal at Dalby Farm has a personality all their own! In this episode, we’re handing out “superlatives” to our most talkative, mischievous, and heartwarming residents. Meet the escape artists, the loudmouths, the unexpected best friends, and the old souls who’ve 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 family—one quirky character at a time!New Episodes: Wednesdays at 9PM EST#barnandsoul #farmlife #weloveanimals #petfarm #hobbyfarm #educationalfarm 🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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.Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – 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.🕰️ Dalby Farm has stood the test of time, but how did it all begin? In this episode, we dive into the farm’s 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. I’ll share the key figures who shaped its evolution, including my grandfather’s hands-on craftsmanship and my mother’s unwavering passion for conservation.📝 You’ll hear about the turning points that redefined the farm’s 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 farm—it’s 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 #educationalfarm 🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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.Support the show

Send a text🎙️ Barn & Soul – 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🚨In 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?😬 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 game—it's a call to action.⛔️ *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 #educationalfarm EPISODE REFERENCES:1. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). (2007). The State of the World’s Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.    * Read the full report here2. The Livestock Conservancy. (n.d.). Conservation Genetics.    * Explore their resources here3. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). (2019). Strengthening Strategic Genetic Resources for Livestock.    * Access the summary report hereFAO. (n.d.). What is happening to agrobiodiversity?. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. FAOHomeGandini, 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. 1. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). (2021). The State of the World’s Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture. FAO.    * 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.    * 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    * 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 World’s Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. FAO.    * 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.    * 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.    * Provides insights into the importance of livestock breeds and their role in food security and sustainable agriculture.https://www.reuters.com/article/world/fifth-of-farm-animal-breeds-may-face-extinction-fao-idUSPAR070042/🔔 SubscSupport the show

Send a textWelcome 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;  what their roles are in our past AND why they're needed in our future.New Episodes: Wednesdays at 9PM EST#barnandsoul #farmlife #weloveanimals #petfarm #hobbyfarm #educationalfarm 🔔 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 @DalbyFarmShop our Online Country Store! https://www.dalbyfarm.com/country-storeAt 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.Support the show