Get Goat Wise | Meat Goats, Dairy Goats, Self-Sufficiency, Sustainable Farm, Homesteading, Off-Grid, Livestock

Winter chores don’t have to take all day, but they do require good systems. In this episode, I’m sharing what a typical winter day looks like on our ranch, how we divide chores, manage water in freezing temperatures, and keep winter from turning into constant crisis mode. I walk through what’s happening on the ranch right now, from breeding season updates to moving chickens into the barn, and how winter changes the pace and priorities of daily management. I share how and why we assign consistent chores, what a realistic winter chore timeline looks like in a moderate year, and why letting winter be slower is not a failure, but a strategy. You’ll hear a detailed breakdown of how we handle winter water, hay feeding, and livestock care, including what adjustments we make when temperatures drop well below zero. I also talk about the reality of hard winters, when snow and weather dictate everything, and why even the best systems can’t eliminate difficulty, but they can keep hard days from becoming every day. This episode isn’t about doing winter “right.” It’s about building simple, repeatable systems that protect your time, your energy, and your animals during the coldest season of the year. If winter chores feel overwhelming or unpredictable, this episode will help you think more clearly about flow, responsibility, and how to simplify what you can without ignoring reality. In This Episode, I Cover: A quick ranch update and what winter conditions mean for daily chores Why we don’t rotate chores in winter and how consistency prevents problems What a realistic winter chore schedule looks like in a moderate year Managing livestock water in freezing temperatures How we adjust hay feeding and grouping during breeding season The difference between moderate winters and hard winters and why systems still matter Why winter is a season for maintenance, not maximum output Key Takeaways: Consistent chore assignments save time and prevent small problems from becoming emergencies Water management is one of the most critical winter systems Good systems reduce friction but can’t control the weather Slower winter rhythms are intentional and necessary If winter chores take all day, that’s a systems issue, not a personal failure Mentioned Episodes: 09 | The Most Important Nutrient for All Livestock is WATER, Time-Saving Tips for Meeting Animal Requirements, and How We Do It Off-Grid Related Episodes: 28 | Winter Feed for Livestock: Calculate How Much Hay You Need and a Strategy Save Money 35 | Winter Hay Feeding Evaluation: Meeting Nutritional Requirements of Goats and Reducing Hay Waste 40 | How to Help Your Goats Thrive in Winter 42 | Surviving Extreme Cold with Livestock When Your Animals Aren’t Adapted to Freezing Temperatures All the Best, Millie Resources & Links: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts + grab the free Kidding Due Date Chart: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart Get Dry Creek meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com Join my insider email list: https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider Join the free community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community Email me: millie@drycreekpastures.com See ranch life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

Breeding season is underway on the ranch, and this year our breeding decisions look a little different than they have in the past. In this episode, I’m sharing what’s happening right now at Dry Creek and walking you through how we’re thinking about herd genetics, maternal traits, and long-term direction—not from a textbook perspective, but from real-world experience. I talk through why we sold our longtime Boer buck, how that decision reshaped this year’s breeding plan, and why we’re intentionally slowing down instead of rushing to replace him. We dig into how past experience with show goats changed the way I think about first kiddings, mothering ability, and how breeding decisions can either set does up for success—or make their job harder from the start. You’ll hear how and why we’re using Spanish bucks across the Boer herd this year, what we’re watching for in the resulting kids, and how data collection—not trends or pressure—is guiding our next steps. I also share some of the longer-term options we’re considering, including terminal crossing, maintaining two distinct herds, and what market demand may influence moving forward. This episode isn’t about having the perfect breeding plan. It’s about making thoughtful decisions that keep options open, protect herd function, and align with the season of ranching and life you’re actually in. If you’re raising goats, planning future breeding decisions, or trying to balance improvement with practicality, this episode will help you think more clearly and move forward with confidence—even if you don’t have every answer yet. In This Episode, I Cover: A quick ranch update and what winter conditions mean for daily management Why we sold our Boer buck and how genetic concentration affects breeding decisions How past show goat experience reshaped our approach to first kidding does Using Spanish bucks to improve mothering and functional traits The pros and tradeoffs of slowing genetic progress for long-term herd success What a terminal cross is and why we’re considering it How market demand, data, and personal goals influence herd direction Key Takeaways: Breeding decisions should support function, not just appearance or speed A doe’s first kidding experience is important for long-term doe success Slowing down can preserve options and prevent genetic dead ends Data collection beats trend-chasing every time It’s okay to move forward without having every future decision locked in Related Episodes: 22 | What Is the Perfect Meat Goat? How to Choose the Right Breed for Your Farm or Homestead PART 1 23 | Boer vs Kiko, What Meat Goat Breed is the Best Fit for Your Farm or Homestead? PART 2 27 | Which Goats Should I Keep to Breed? How to Select Replacement Does and Plan Your Goat Breeding Season 37 | Replacement Doe Management: Later Selection to Choose the Best Does for Your Herd 76 | How to Choose Future Breeding Bucks for Your Goat Herd   All the Best, Millie Resources & Links: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts + grab the free Kidding Due Date Chart: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart Get Dry Creek meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com Join my insider email list: https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider Join the free community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community Email me: millie@drycreekpastures.com See ranch life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

Planning with livestock isn’t about filling a calendar—it’s about working with seasons, weather, animals, and real life. In this episode, I’m sharing what’s happening on our ranch right now, how we plan a full livestock year, and why I’ve stopped trying to force rigid schedules that don’t fit the reality of ranch life. I walk through our annual rhythm with goats, cattle, fencing, meat sales, and family life, breaking down what each season typically holds and how those rhythms shape our planning decisions. From winter breeding and paperwork to spring kidding prep, summer grazing and county fair, and fall weaning and breeding plans, this episode gives you a realistic look at how a working ranch year actually unfolds. We also talk about what’s changing for us in 2026—adjustments in breeding decisions, pasture and seeding experiments, a major perimeter fence project, and shifts in meat sales and time commitments. I share why flexibility has become a priority, how over-scheduling creates frustration, and what it looks like to plan with wider margins instead of tighter timelines. If you’ve ever felt behind because your plans didn’t survive weather, animals, kids, or life in general, this episode is here to give you permission to plan differently. Seasonal planning isn’t less disciplined—it’s more honest. And for many of us, it’s the only way to stay steady long-term. In This Episode, I Cover: What’s happening on the ranch right now and how weather affects daily decisions How we plan a livestock year around seasons instead of rigid schedules A realistic walkthrough of our ranch year, from breeding to weaning What’s changing for us in 2026 and why flexibility matters How infrastructure projects reduce labor and stress long-term Why overplanning creates frustration—and what we’re doing instead Key Takeaways: Livestock planning works best when it follows seasons, not calendars Weather, animals, and family life will always change the plan Rigid timelines often increase stress instead of progress Planning with margin creates steadiness and resilience Seasonal rhythms support long-term stewardship and sustainability Related Episodes: 02 | Overwhelmed? 4 Steps to Create a Practical Plan for Adding Livestock to Your Homestead Successfully 06 | What Livestock Should I Get First? My Top Pick for Your First Homestead Animals 30 | Livestock Decision-Making: What to do When You Make a Wrong Decision and How to Use that Information to Make Progress 53 | Livestock and Land Management that Works WITH Your Environment and Resources, Not Against Them All the Best, Millie Resources & Links: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts + grab the free Kidding Due Date Chart: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart Get Dry Creek meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com Join my insider email list: https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider Join the free community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community Email me: millie@drycreekpastures.com See ranch life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

There are a lot of misconceptions about goats that set new owners up for frustration before they ever bring animals home. In this episode, I’m walking through five things I really wish I had understood before I got goats—lessons that would have saved me time, money, stress, and a lot of hard-earned mistakes. We start by resetting expectations around goat behavior and management, including why goats are not sheep and why treating them like they are leads to fence failures, nutrition problems, and constant headaches. I break down the common myth that goats will eat anything, why that idea causes disappointment and even safety issues, and how understanding goat selectivity can actually make them a powerful management tool when used intentionally. We also talk through the difference between poor management that forces goats to eat through hunger and strategic pressure that can be used carefully to influence forage selection. I explain why hunger-driven eating is often a sign that stocking rate, rotation, supplementation, or minerals are off—and when it can make sense to intentionally encourage goats to consume less-preferred plants without compromising health or welfare. Finally, we cover why fence isn’t just one piece of goat ownership but the entire system, why minerals are not optional for goats, and why bottle babies—despite being cute—are not the best place for beginners to start. If you’re planning to get goats, or if you already have them and things feel harder than you expected, this episode will help you step back, reset expectations, and build systems that actually work. In This Episode, I Cover: Why goats are not sheep and how their behavior, grazing style, and nutrition differ How managing goats like sheep creates fence, feeding, and safety problems The myth that goats will eat anything—and why it sets people up for disappointment How goats actually browse, sample, and select forage Why hunger-driven eating is usually a sign of management problems When and how goats can be strategically encouragedto eat less-preferred plants The role of stocking rate, rotation, supplementation, and minerals in forage selection Seasonal changes in plant palatability and how that affects grazing plans Why fence is not a detail but the foundation of goat management Common ways electric fence fails and why you need a secure backup enclosure Why goats have higher mineral demands than many people expect The problems caused by feeding sheep mineral to goats Why mineral availability does not always equal mineral intake Why bottle babies are emotionally appealing but management-intensive The higher risks and behavioral challenges of bottle-raised goats Why bottle babies make the learning curve steeper for beginners Key Takeaways: Goats require different management than sheep or cattle Expectation mismatches are at the root of most goat problems Goats are selective browsers, not garbage disposals Hunger-based eating is a warning sign, not a management strategy Strategic pressure can influence forage use when applied carefully and intentionally Fence is the system that everything else depends on A solid, goat-proof enclosure relieves pressure when electric fence fails Minerals are essential to long-term goat health and performance Feeding sheep mineral to goats will cause deficiencies over time Bottle babies are not the easiest place to start learning goats Clear expectations and intentional systems make goats much easier to manage Related Episodes: 03 | Ready for Goats! 4 Steps to Help You Confidently Shop for and Purchase Your First Goats 10 | 5 Tips to Raise Bottle Goat Kids That Thrive 17 | Do My Goats Need Mineral? How to Meet Their Micronutrient Needs and Keep the Herd Healthy 07 | Should My Goats Have Horns or Not? Pros and Cons of Disbudding Goats 02 | Overwhelmed? 4 Steps to Create a Practical Plan for adding Livestock to Your Homestead Successfully All the Best, Millie Resources & Links: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts + grab the free Kidding Due Date Chart: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart Get Dry Creek meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com Join my insider email list: https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider Join the free community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community Email me: millie@drycreekpastures.com See ranch life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

Breeding season success doesn’t start when the buck goes in—it starts weeks earlier with intentional management decisions around feed, body condition, mineral, and water. In this episode, I’m walking through how we prepare our goat herd for breeding season on our ranch, and why flushing is less about grain and more about timing and rising energy intake. I explain how our does typically come off pasture somewhat thin due to declining forage quality and demands of lactation, how we use a gradual hay-based recovery phase after weaning, and why we don’t rush into flushing too early. You’ll hear how we intentionally set the stage so that a modest energy increase 2–3 weeks before breeding actually produces a favorable reproductive response. We also dig into forage-based flushing using high-quality hay, why mineral intake is often the hidden limiting factor in breeding success, and how winter water access quietly controls feed intake, mineral consumption, and overall herd health. If breeding hasn’t gone the way you expected in the past, this episode will help you evaluate the foundational pieces before blaming genetics or the buck. In This Episode, I Cover: What flushing really is—and why it’s primarily an energy strategy, not a grain strategy Why flushing needs to start 2–3 weeks before breeding, not the day the buck shows up How our does come off pasture thin from limited forage and lactation—and why that matters Our post-weaning feeding strategy to gradually rebuild body condition without overdoing it Why flushing works best when does are moderate condition or slightly thin, not fat How forage-based flushing works with high-quality hay like sainfoin Why intake—not just feed quality—determines whether flushing is effective The critical role of mineral intake in estrus expression, conception, and early pregnancy Why bucks are often overlooked in mineral programs—and how we handle that The trace minerals most closely tied to reproductive success How winter water access limits feed and mineral intake Why water is often the most overlooked nutrient in breeding prep Signs that water intake may be holding your herd back reproductively How consistency—not perfection—sets the stage for a successful breeding season Key Takeaways: Breeding success starts weeks before breeding with intentional preparation Flushing works because of rising energy intake, not because of grain Gradual post-lactation recovery sets the stage for an effective flushing response High-quality forage can support flushing when intake truly increases Mineral intake—not just availability—can make or break reproductive success Bucks need mineral too, even when feeders don’t cooperate Without adequate winter water, goats won’t eat enough feed or mineral Water is often the limiting nutrient in cold-weather breeding preparation Consistency and timing matter more than aggressive feeding Related Episodes: 14 | When Should My Goats Kid? Timing Your Production Cycle to Optimize Goat Fertility and Forage Nutrition 17 | Do My Goats Need Mineral? How to Meet Their Micronutrient Needs and Keep the Herd Healthy 09 | The Most Important Nutrient for All Livestock is WATER, Time-Saving Tips for Meeting Animal Requirements, and How We Do It Off-Grid 24 | What Is That Smell? The Bucks are In Rut! Should You Buy a Buck to Breed Your Does or Is Leasing a Better Option? 26 | Is My Goat Old Enough to Breed? How To Decide When Your Does Are Ready to Have Their First Kids All the Best, Millie Resources & Links: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts+ grab the free Kidding Due Date Chart: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart Get Dry Creek meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com Join my insider email list: https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider Join the FB community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community Email me:millie@drycreekpastures.com See ranch life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

Regenerative agriculture can feel like a buzzword, a badge, or a list of practices you’re supposed to follow. But in real life, and especially in a challenging climate, regeneration is a process of learning, comparing ideas against your own environment, testing small changes, observing what your land and animals are telling you, and adjusting as you go. In this episode, I’m sharing the decision-making loop we use on our ranch with both goats and cattle, and why I see multi-species grazing as a long-term benefit—even though it adds complexity in the beginning. I also walk through our big-picture goal of reducing supplemental hay by extending the grazing season, and the real constraints we have to work within, like limited moisture, fragile pasture, frozen ground, predators, and wildlife pressure. You’ll hear how we’re approaching water infiltration and soil building in a dry climate, why we’re testing straw bales to slow runoff first, and what we’ve already observed from years of intensive rotational grazing, chicken tractors, and summer bale grazing. I also explain why certain popular practices don’t translate well to goat management in our conditions—and how we adapt without abandoning the principles. In This Episode, I Cover: Why regenerative agriculture is a process, not a destination The decision-making loop: Learn → Compare Context → Clarify Goals → Test → Observe → Adjust → Repeat How to learn from other producers without copy-pasting their practices Shifting from “this won’t work in my climate” to “how do these principles apply here?” Why nature is the best teacher and how to use observation as your guide Our big-picture goal: reducing hay by extending spring and fall grazing The resource bottleneck in dry country: water infiltration and water-holding capacity Why soil cover and organic matter are critical in moisture-limited environments Using straw bales to slow runoff as a low-risk way to test water flow paths What we’ve observed after 5 years of intensive rotational grazing The forage improvements we’ve seen from chicken tractors and summer bale grazing Why winter bale grazing is risky/not feasible for us right now (electric netting in frozen ground, elk pressure) A winter feeding strategy that works within predator pressure and management reality A soil-building feeding approach we’re preparing to test (and why snow cover matters) Why we’re not buying a no-till drill right now—and what we want in place first Why starting with annuals can make sense before investing in expensive perennial seed Key Takeaways: Regenerative practices aren’t universal—principles transfer, but application must fit your climate and animals. Nature is the best teacher: observation turns theory into real management decisions. Start with clear goals and real constraints, then break big objectives into small, testable steps. Moisture-limited land requires prioritizing water infiltration, water-holding capacity, and soil cover. Testing small and reversible ideas (like straw bales) can prevent expensive mistakes. Multi-species grazing is a long-term benefit, but it adds complexity—especially in the beginning. “Not yet” is a valid answer on tools and investments; timing matters. Progress comes from repeated cycles of learning, testing, observing, and adjusting—not from perfection. Mentions: Gabe Brown — Dirt to Soil Related Episodes: 84 | The Messy Middle of Regenerative Ranching: Key Insights from “A Bold Return to Giving a Damn” by Will Harris 78 | Winter Grazing: Low Cost, Regenerative Strategies for Goats and Other Livestock 53 | Livestock and Land Management that Works WITH Your Environment and Resources, Not Against Them 21 | Seeking Sustainability? How to Evaluate Options and Make Decisions with a Sustainability Mindset All the Best, Millie   Resources & Links: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts + grab the free Kidding Due Date Chart: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart Get Dry Creek meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com Join my insider email list: https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider Join the FB community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community Email me:millie@drycreekpastures.com See ranch life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance. *As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

Coccidiosis is one of the most common kid-health problems goat owners face, and it’s one of the most misunderstood. Some herds battle it every year. Others hardly see it. In this episode, I’m breaking down what coccidia actually is, how it functions inside the gut, which strains are the most dangerous, and why stress and environment play such a big role in outbreaks. I’m also sharing the major shifts we made in genetics, kidding season, and management that completely changed our coccidia situation. After years of losing show goats to coccidiosis, we haven’t had a single case in our main herd in three years—and I’ll walk you through exactly why. And I’ll touch on some natural, tannin-based supplements that some producers use to support gut health in herds that battle chronic coccidiosis pressure. We’re incorporating one into our mineral mix right now, mainly for our show-goat breeders, and I’ll share updates as we see results. Finally, if you think a kid might be dealing with coccidiosis, I explain why getting your vet involved quickly makes all the difference. In This Episode, I Cover: What coccidia is and how it functions in the intestinal lining How infection spreads and why kids are most vulnerable The strains of coccidia that cause the most damage The genetic component: why some goats struggle more than others How stress, moisture, overcrowding, and management influence outbreaks Our real-world experience with coccidiosis in show goats How shifting genetics and kidding season broke our coccidia cycle Why chickens donot give goats coccidia Natural tannin-based supplements some producers use for gut support When it’s time to call your vet and why timing matters Key Takeaways: Coccidia are microscopic protozoa that damage the gut by destroying intestinal cells. The most pathogenic strains includeEimeria ninakohlyakimovae, arloingi, and  Stress + moisture + high oocyst load = ideal conditions for coccidiosis. Genetics and kidding-season timing have a huge impact on resilience. Chickens cannot give goats coccidia—the strains are species specific. Tannin-based supplements may support gut health in high-pressure herds. Bottle kids remain more vulnerable due to stress and barn exposure. Good management prevents most cases—but if you suspect coccidiosis, contacting your vet early is critical. Mentions: 86 | Can Goats and Chickens Live Together? What’s Safe, What’s Not, and How to Do It Right Related Episodes: 82 | Internal Parasites in Goats: Monitoring, Prevention, and Treatment for Barber Pole and Other Worms 68 | New to Raising Livestock? Risk Management Strategies When the Learning Curve is Steep 08 | When Animals Aren’t Working Out on the Homestead/ How to Evaluate Your Livestock Projects and Decide to Keep or Sell All the Best, Millie Resources & Links: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts+ grab the free Kidding Due Date Chart: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart Get Dry Creek meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com Join my insider email list: https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider Join the FB community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community Email me:millie@drycreekpastures.com See ranch life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

This week on the ranch, we’ve got our young hens working half the barn, scratching through the bedding and cleaning up after the goats. They’re doing what chickens do best—turning packed areas into loose, manageable bedding. Watching them work reminded me how often I get asked whether goats and chickens can safely live together, so that’s what we’re diving into today. In this episode, I’m breaking down the real benefits of keeping goats and chickens together, the legitimate risks you need to manage, and the simple guidelines that make mixed housing safe. I’m also sharing what the newest research says about coccidia—specifically whether chickens can give it to goats—and how to decide if this setup is right for your farm or homestead. At the end of the episode, I’ll give you a quick preview of next week’s topic where we’re going deep into coccidia: what it is, how it works, why some strains are more dangerous, and the management shifts that helped us break the cycle of coccidiosis in our own herd. In This Episode, I Cover: Why goats and chickens can safely share space How chickens help disrupt goat parasite cycles The barn-cleanup advantage of having chickens around goats The #1 rule of mixed housing: keep goats out of chicken feed What modern research really says about coccidia and species-specific strains When mixed housing becomes risky How to set up a safe, low-stress environment for both species When you should NOT mix species—especially if anyone is sick Key Takeaways: Chickens do not give goats coccidiosis. The strains are species specific. Goats getting into chicken feed is the biggest danger—and it’s completely preventable. Dry bedding, enough space, and clean feeding areas make mixed housing much safer. Some diseases can move between species, so never mix sick animals. With the right setup, mixed species can simplify chores and support parasite management. Related Episodes: 06 | What Livestock Should I Get First? My Top Pick for Your First Homestead Animals 20 | Lessons from Raising Livestock: 5 Problems That Can Be Avoided or Solved with a Good Mentor 21 | Seeking Sustainability?  How to Evaluate Options and Make Decisions with a Sustainability Mindset 31 | Are Winter Heat Lamps Bad for Chickens? How to Prepare Your Flock for a Comfortable Winter All the Best, Millie Resources & Links: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts then grab the free Kidding Due Date Chart: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart Get Dry Creek meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com Join my insider email list: https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider Join the FB community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community Email me: millie@drycreekpastures.com See ranch life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

In today’s episode, we talk about the mindset that actually makes farming, homesteading and livestock work sustainable. Not ease, not perfection — but gratitude, grit, and learning to find the good even when the hard days hit. I’m sharing two real-life stories from our ranch that shaped how I approach challenges, and practical ways you can apply this mindset on your own homestead. What You’ll Learn Why gratitude is a daily management tool, not a once-a-year feeling How accepting “hard” as normal keeps you steady with livestock The value in finding the good inside messy or frustrating situations What a difficult kidding season taught me about leadership and problem-solving How a major off-grid setback revealed long-term clarity we wouldn’t have gained otherwise Practical ways to build a resilient, realistic homesteading mindset Key Takeaways Gratitude keeps you grounded, especially when things go sideways Hard days aren’t a sign you’re failing — they’re part of learning and building competence Finding the good in a situation helps you move forward instead of getting stuck Livestock and off-grid life will test you; mindset determines whether you burn out or grow Long-term sustainability depends more on steadiness than skill Related Episodes 02 | Overwhelmed? 4 Steps to Create a Practical Plan for adding Livestock to Your Homestead Successfully 15 | The Most Important Lesson We Learned Going Off-Grid, and How You Can Do the Same Thing to Simplify Your Off-Grid Plan 30 | Livestock Decision-Making: What to do When You Make a Wrong Decision and How to Use that Information to Make Progress 68 | New to Raising Livestock? Risk Management Strategies When the Learning Curve is Steep All the Best, Millie Resources & Links: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts then grab the free Kidding Due Date Chart: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart Get Dry Creek meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com Join my insider email list: https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider Join the FB community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community Email me: millie@drycreekpastures.com See ranch life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/ Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

Hi friends!  Today we’re talking about the transition from conventional agriculture and livestock production to a regenerative or restorative system.  I spent two days in the truck, listening to Will Harris’ book, A Bold Return to Giving a Damn, and it gave me some great insights into the decades-long journey of White Oak Pastures, as well as a look into the future of our ranch.  If you’re considering a production system that is closer to nature’s design or if you’re in the messy middle like we are, this episode will help you see the possibilities, problems, and the beautiful potential.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie   Related Episodes:   53 | Livestock and Land Management that Works WITH Your Environment and Resources, Not Against Them   45 | Health Benefits of Ruminant Red Meat, Grass-Fed vs Grain-Fed, and Special Characteristics of Goat Meat   21 | Seeking Sustainability?  How to Evaluate Options and Make Decisions with a Sustainability Mindset   08 | When Animals Aren’t Working Out on the Homestead: How to Evaluate Your Livestock Projects and Decide to Keep or Sell   Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, then grab your FREE Kidding Due Date Chart here: https://www.getgoatwise.com/kidding-chart   Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com   Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community   Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/   Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

Hi friends!  Today we’re talking about goat fence, specifically, a night trap which is one part of a big fence project we’re working on.  A night trap is a pen that is used to keep goats in at night and when they can’t be out grazing during the winter.  It’s designed to easily contain the goats as well as protect them from outside predators.  We’ve built a few of these over the years, and I’m going to give you the overview of how to do it with very little tools like we did in the beginning to now, using some helpful equipment, but not required.  Having a secure place to contain your goats will ease your mind and make raising goats so much easier.   All the Best! Millie   Related Episodes:   55 | Fencing for Goats: Two Things You Must Have to Keep Your Goats Contained and Safe   56 | True or False? Goats are Escape Artists (Hint/ The Answer Is in Your Management Strategy)   13 | Using Electric Fence with Goats? What You Need to Know to Keep Your Goats Contained and Alive with Electric Netting     Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com   Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community   Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/   Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

Hi friends!  Today we’re talking about internal parasites, or worms, different species, the problems they cause, and how you can help your goats resist parasites, how to monitor your herd, and how to treat them when you need to.  Internal parasites are one of the biggest problems that goat owners face, and being armed with some strategies to monitor, support, and treat your goats is the best defense against these little invaders.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie   Mentions:   https://kinderground.org   https://lakelandfarmandranch.com/usa/     Related Episodes:   08 | When Animals Aren’t Working Out on the Homestead: How to Evaluate Your Livestock Projects and Decide to Keep or Sell   17 | Do My Goats Need Mineral?  How to Meet Their Micronutrient Needs and Keep the Herd Healthy   22 | What Is the Perfect Meat Goat? How to Choose the Right Breed for Your Farm or Homestead PART 1   23 | Boer vs Kiko, What Meat Goat Breed is the Best Fit for Your Farm or Homestead? PART 2     Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com   Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community   Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/   Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for animal health guidance.

Hi friends!  Today we’re talking about breed registries, making decisions based on performance data, livestock industry problems created by breeding for maximum production, hybrid vigor, and what you need to know before you decide if you should raise registered or unregistered goats.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie   Related Episodes:   22 | What Is the Perfect Meat Goat? How to Choose the Right Breed for Your Farm or Homestead PART 1   23 | Boer vs Kiko, What Meat Goat Breed is the Best Fit for Your Farm or Homestead? PART 2   27 | Which Goats Should I Keep to Breed? How to Select Replacement Does and Plan Your Goat Breeding Season   76 | How to Choose Future Breeding Bucks for Your Goat Herd     Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com   Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community   Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/

Hi friends!  Today we’re talking about weaning goat kids, different methods for weaning, timing to prevent unintentional breeding by buck kids, if you should wean wether and doe kids at all, and how to decide what weaning strategy will work best for your goat herd and management system.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie   Mentions:   46 | Early Banding vs Late Banding in Buck Kids: Will Your Goats Be Healthy if You Band Them Early?   Related Episodes:   14 | When Should My Goats Kid? Timing Your Production Cycle to Optimize Goat Fertility and Forage Nutrition   20 | Lessons from Raising Livestock: 5 Problems That Can Be Avoided or Solved with a Good Mentor   26 | Is My Goat Old Enough to Breed? How To Decide When Your Does Are Ready Have Their First Kids     Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com   Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community   Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/  

Hi friends!  Today we’re talking about youth livestock programs, gaining wisdom by learning from experience, and the importance of teaching kids about livestock and where their food comes from.  Whether kids are involved in a formal program or have their own projects on the homestead, farm, in the back yard, or even a rented space at a nearby farm, raising livestock can be a life-changing experience for kids.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie   Related Episodes:   12 | Raising Kids and Livestock? Teach Life Lessons, Build Character, and Strengthen Your Relationships While Raising Animals   18 | Interview with Sage Bradshaw on Life with Livestock and 4-H Projects PART 1   19 | Interview with Sage Bradshaw on Life with Livestock and 4-H Projects PART 2   70 | How Livestock, Chores, and Good Mentors Create Resilient, Confident Kids Who Are Prepared for the Challenges Life Brings   75 | How Livestock Shaped My Life and Why I’m Here to Help You   Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com   Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community   Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/  

Hi friends!  Today we’re talking about winter grazing and the different ways you can feed your livestock in a sustainable, regenerative way while meeting their needs and promoting nutrient cycling and land improvement.  We’ll define terms like swath grazing, bale grazing, cover crop and residue grazing and discuss how each of them could benefit your management system.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie   Related Episodes:   28 | Winter Feed for Livestock: Calculate How Much Hay You Need and a Strategy Save Money   35 | Winter Hay Feeding Evaluation:  Meeting Nutritional Requirements of Goats and Reducing Hay Waste   42 | Surviving Extreme Cold with Livestock When Your Animals Aren’t Adapted to Freezing Temperatures   Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com   Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community   Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/  

Hi friends!  Today we’re talking about preparing for winter on the ranch and homestead, and what we do to make sure the animals and people are taken care of through the cold winter months.  We’ll talk about livestock feed and water, general fall clean up that makes winter work easier, and a quick overview of what we prepare for our family that supports us through the winter as well as the rest of the year.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie     Related Episodes:   28 | Winter Feed for Livestock: Calculate How Much Hay You Need and a Strategy Save Money   31 | Are Winter Heat Lamps Bad for Chickens? How to Prepare Your Flock for a Comfortable Winter   36 | What We Miss the Most While Building Our Off-Grid Life   49 | 3 Strategies to Make the Best Use of Bulk Meat Storage and Avoid Freezer Overwhelm     Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com     Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community     Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/  

Hi friends!  Today we’re talking about selecting replacement bucks, the criteria we use to qualify bucks as breeding stock, and we’ll walk through the sorting process and how we handled it this year.  I’ll also be sharing some interesting things we observed while sorting and how it’s going to affect future decisions and data collection.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie     Mentions:   46 | Early Banding vs Late Banding in Buck Kids: Will Your Goats Be Healthy if You Band Them Early?     Related Episodes:   24 | What Is That Smell? The Bucks are In Rut! Should You Buy a Buck to Breed Your Does or Is Leasing a Better Option?   38 | Buck Management That Will Keep You, Your Goats, and Your Neighbors Happy   62 | The Buck Effect: What Is It, What Causes It, and How It Affects Goat Herd Management     Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com     Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community     Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/  

Hi friends!  Today’s episode is a little different.  I’ve been deep in thought as I’m sure many of you have been also, reflecting on all that has happened recently.  I want to share some of what I’ve been thinking about, particularly as it relates to why I care so much about raising livestock, healthy food, and self-sufficiency, as well as what’s coming up for our ranch, the meat business, and this podcast.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie     Related Episodes:   01 | The Story Behind "Get Goat Wise" and How I Went from Ranch Kid to Homesteader   25 | Concerned About the Food Supply?  Simple Ways to Ensure That Your Family Will Be Fed in the Event of a Food Availability Crisis   49 | 3 Strategies to Make the Best Use of Bulk Meat Storage and Avoid Freezer Overwhelm     Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com     Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community     Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/  

Hi friends!  It’s time for a chicken episode! Today we’re talking about what to do with all those roosters you ended up with after buying straight run chicks this year – because that was all you could find, right?  We’ll talk about options to deal with this year’s roosters as well as long-term strategies for your flock, including rooster management and setting goals for meat and egg production.  Let’s get to it!   All the Best! Millie     Mentions:   41 | What Type of Meat Bird Should I Raise? Cornish Cross, Hybrid and Dual-Purpose Explained   Related Episodes:   06 | What Livestock Should I Get First? My Top Pick for Your First Homestead Animals   31 | Are Winter Heat Lamps Bad for Chickens? How to Prepare Your Flock for a Comfortable Winter     Get your farm fresh meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com     Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community     Connect with me:   Email: millie@drycreekpastures.com   See what’s happening on the ranch: https://www.instagram.com/drycreekpastures/