The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow: Recent Episodes
Shannon Hayes
Welcome to the Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, chronicles and lessons from a life tied to family, community and the land. I'm Shannon Hayes, and I own and operate Sap Bush Hollow Farm with three generations of my family in the Northern Catskills of Upstate New York. I'm the chef owner of Sap Bush Cafe, and I'm the author of a few books, including Radical Homemakers and The Grassfed Gourmet. This podcast features my weekly essays, where I explore the adventures of keeping life, business, family, community and fun in the balance.
I was always an A student. Actually, I couldn’t NOT be an A student. After writing this week’s post, I think I could fairly say I was TRAPPED into being an A student. I’m beginning to see how that has been working against me. It’s time to turn things around and make life more sane.
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 17 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. For a full transcript, check out The Radical Homemaker Blog at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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If your doctor advised you to cut back and do less, could you do it?
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 16 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. For the transcript of this story, visit The Radical Homemaker blog at https://www.sapbushfarmstore.com.
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It never occurred to me that cleaning my mother’s house would shed light on her fears. But as we continue to work to revitalize the Sap Bush Farm House, more mysteries about her are solved…and revealed…
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 15 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the printed version of this story over on The Radical Homemaker Blog at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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We got a day off this week! Bob and I took off for a paddling trip to the Adirondacks, where I used to dream of buying a cabin with a fantasy $500,000 book advance. On this day off, I got a chance to reflect on where that dream got us. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 14 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. You can read this story on The Radical Homemaker Blog, which is now located on the Sap Bush Hollow website: SapBushFarmStore.com.
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I’m 51 years old. I’ve spent nearly all those years living and working at Sap Bush Hollow Farm. How is it that I still don’t know how to be a farmer?
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 13 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. If you'd like a written version of this story, find it on The Radical Homemaker blog at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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I received a letter a few weeks back from a woman who found an old copy of one of my most popular books, Radical Homemakers, in her public library. “I want to become someone I believe in,” she wrote to me. And she wanted to know how my beliefs and research have framed my life, and how my views may have changed since writing that book. It’s taken me a while to think of how to respond. On any given day, I found that I had a different answer. How would any of us tackle that question: Have I lived my life as someone I can believe in?
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 12 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. For a text copy of this essay, visit The Radical Homemaker Blog at SapBushFarmStore.com
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What will it take to get this farm to run smoothly and efficiently?
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 11 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. For a written version of this story, check out The Radical Homemaker Blog, which can be found at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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s it possible to lose a beloved parent without an existential life crisis? Oh if only…
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 10 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. For the written transcript of this story, visit The Radical Homemaker blog at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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https://www.sapbushfarmstore.com/s/stories/the-all-girls-tractor-schoolFarming requires everyone to work hard, and to take pride and joy in doing so. But there’s a long tradition of dividing the labor along gender lines. That can be a problem if you’re trying to make sure a business can continue when the entire next generation is one gender.
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 9 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. If you'd like to read the full transcript of this story, find it on the Radical Homemaker blog here.
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My mother’s callous attitude about death could come across as shocking to those who didn’t know her. But her views were hard-won, and they’re getting me through the tough work we face here at Sap Bush Hollow. Those of you who’ve known mom and me personally are aware that she raised me to swear like a sailor. To be true to her parenting voice, I’ve employed our natural language here. If you’ve got tender ears within listening range, you might want to slip on some headphones for this episode.
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 8 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the transcript for this story on The Radical Homemaker Blog, which is now located at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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Efficiency. That’s key to profitability on a farm. Everything must contribute to the well-being of the whole. If it doesn’t contribute, it must go. But what, exactly, counts as a valid contribution?
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 7 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. For the transcript of this story, visit The Radical Homemaker Blog at www.sapbushfarmstore.com.
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This year marked my first Mothers’ Day without a Mom. I didn’t think it mattered much, in light of the fact that I abhor the day and refuse to mark it. But that doesn’t make me celebrate my mother any less. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 6 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. For the written transcript of this story, visit the Radical Homemaker blog at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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I normally like to write alone, but this week’s essay was written in collaboration with Kit, my emotionally avoidant dog. It’s about the importance of a time-out. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 5 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the written version of this story over on The Radical Homemaker Blog at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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Final exams and final projects, lambing season, the loss of a local microbrewery, spring cleaning. It’s been a busy week here at Sap Bush Hollow, with lots of change and lots of surrender. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. You can find the text version of this story on The Radical Homemaker blog at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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For three years, I’ve been gently encouraging folks, even farmers and small business owners, to consider abandoning their social media accounts. But today, I’m not going to beat around the bush. I’m going to come out and ask you to do it. I think you’ll be happier for it, that your businesses will run better without it, and that you’ll be helping to take steps to restore democracy. And right now, the stakes are higher than ever. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the full transcript for this story over on The Radical Homemaker Blog at https://www.sapbushfarmstore.com.
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It’s hard to ignore the news these days, even though I think a lot of farmers prefer to. We’re keenly aware that agrarian political views vary widely, and rural neighbors can’t afford too many political battles. I try to keep my mouth shut to get along better. But last week, farm and homesteading culture got thrown into the political debate. And I think a few things warrant discussion. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 2 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the transcript of this episode over on the blog.
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Winter is loosening her grip slowly this year, matching our emotions as we move into our first season without Mom here on Sap Bush Hollow Farm. We’re doing as well as can be expected…in spite of my dog’s utter failure to offer emotional support. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 6, Episode 1 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. You can find the full transcript of this essay on The Radical Homemaker Blog at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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It's the final episode of the season, and we're going to explore what it takes to make it in this agrarian way of life when aptitude isn't in the cards. For a written copy of this piece, visit The Radical Homemaker Blog. You can learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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Family farm life is rife with daily disasters. If we measure our happiness based on our ability to avert them, we’ll never be content. The trick is to enjoy the life in spite of them.
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 19 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. To find a text version of this post, visit The Radical Homemaker blog. To learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm, find us here.
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Living rural has typically necessitated car ownership. Our family tries to minimize that expense for ecological, financial and quality of life reasons. But now both our daughters are driving….What will this mean? You’re listening to Season 5, Episode 18 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the transcript over on the blog at The Radical Homemaker.net. Learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm here.
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The real estate market is booming. What does that mean for our farmers? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 17 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the written copy of this story over on The Radical Homemaker Blog. To visit Sap Bush Hollow Farm on the web, find us here.
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What does it take to savor every moment of every day? I’ve been taking lessons from a two-year-old. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 16 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the transcript on TheRadicalHomemaker.net. Click here to learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm.
Photo by Alexander Mils on Unsplash
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I believe my meditation practice has improved my life immeasurably, making me less volatile and more full of loving kindness. But does that mean there is never a place for a splash of volatility? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 15 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the transcript on The Radical Homemaker blog. To visit Sap Bush Hollow Farm on the web, find us here.
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Life throws all kinds of challenges at us. But if we’re living the life we want, even the challenges can be valuable experiences. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 14 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, and today we’re going to talk about Bears, Bees, and other failed endeavors fit for a castle. Read the transcript over on The Radical Homemaker Blog. Find out more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm here.
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“We are all in the gutter. But some of us are looking at the stars.” - Oscar Wilde
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 13 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, where we’re going to talk about the power of hope and friendship. If you'd like a transcript of this episode, find it on The Radical Homemaker blog here. If you'd like to learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm, find us on the web https://www.sapbushfarmstore.com/.
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Mom has been gone from the farm house for about a month. And she’d been sick for some time before that. It’s a wonder the barn didn’t eat the house in her absence. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 12 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. To find the transcript of this story, visit the blog at TheRadicalHomemaker.net. To learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm, visit SapBushFarmStore.com.
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It’s been a crazy couple of weeks. My family has been shaken up, and we’re madly trying to swim to the shores of a new normal. Thankfully, we’re not the first to make the journey. I’m going to try to bring you up to speed this week. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 11 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the text version of this story over on The Radical Homemaker Blog. To learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm, click here.
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A lot of small business owners and farmers had to raise their prices this year. And sometimes, we take heat for it. It’s time to have another talk about that cloak of shame. To read the transcript and review the sources, visit the Radical Homemaker Blog. To learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm, find us here.
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There’s short cuts, then there’s cutting corners. One way saves time, the other usually winds up wasting it. But sometimes, time needs to be suspended all together, and the longest way is the only way.
I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 9 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. You can learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm by visiting on the web at SapBushFarmStore.com. You can find the text version of this story on The Radical Homemaker blog.
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I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 8 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, where we’re going to talk about farming, vaccines, social media, and getting the most out of life. Prefer to read the story with all the citations? Find it here.
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If granted three wishes, most of us who run farms and have families could easily name the first two: one for the well-being of the farm, the other for the well-being of the family. What about the third wish? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 7 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, a story about a Banana Coffee Peanut Butter Smoothie. If you'd like to read the text version of this piece, you can find it on The Radical Homemaker Blog. If you'd like to explore Sap Bush Hollow Farm, find us on the web here.
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What does it take to become an expert? Who has the right to use that title? Does it even matter anymore? I'm Shannon Hayes and you're listening to Season 5, Episode 6 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. If you'd like to read the transcript, you can find it on The Radical Homemaker Blog. If you'd like to learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm, you can find it here.
Photo by Growtika on Unsplash
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How many moments of your life do you get to remember? I just picked one. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 5 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. The transcript of this piece can be found on the blog at The Radical Homemaker.net. To learn more about Sap Bush Hollow, visit SapBushFarmStore.com.
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Breaking up with friends and lovers is never easy. But chickens help. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 4 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. You can find the transcript for this story on the blog at TheRadicalHomemaker.net. You can explore Sap Bush Hollow at SapBushFarmStore.com.
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The New York Times is reporting that angry farmers are shaping the political landscape of Europe….but maybe not for the best. But that anger is valid. And it’s on this continent, too. It’s just harder for our culture to listen to it. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Looking for the original text version of the story? Find it here.
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The weight loss industry is now valued at over $70 billion dollars. And it’s making a lot of us unnecessarily hungry, farmers included. We need to talk about feed. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 2 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Looking for the transcript? Find it here. Looking to learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm? You'll find that here.
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When you’re open to the public for business, you can choose what to sell. But you don’t always get to choose what issues you’ll have to tackle. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 5, Episode 1 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the story over on the blog. To learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm and its grass fed meats & wool products, visit it on the web here.
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We’ve been operating Sap Bush Hollow Farm since 1979. Things keep changing. I’ve seen things my elders never imagined we would see here. Then again, a lot of things are way better than they used to be. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 20 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, our final episode of the season!
You can access the full text version here.
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It's so simple. And it makes such a big difference. Read the story here.
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How many times must we circle the sun before we feel comfortable expressing our truth? And does that make us any less courteous and kind? Read the story here.
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Farmers make up less than two percent of the population. Farm kids even less than that. And farm kids on the dating scene????? Even less. Is the world ready for this farmer’s daughter?
I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 17 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript here.
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We’re all supposed to do one better than what came before. But is it the doing, or the trying, that matters? I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 16 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the story here.
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Are you a glass half-full type, or glass half-empty? The difference between success and failure really is in the perspective. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 14 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the story here.
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Learning to say NO is tough, especially if you have to do the personal work investing intense consideration into every decision point. Sometimes, a few fast rules for NOs to live by can ease the burden of on-the-spot deliberation. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 13 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, the third & final installment in my 3 part series, a Celebration of Negation. Read the transcript here. Featured image courtesy of Corbie Mitleid.
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I can’t give you a surefire formula for success, but I can give you a formula for failure: try to please everybody all the time. — Herbert Bayard Swope, first recipient of the Pulitzer Prize’I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 12 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, the second in my 3 part series that’s a Celebration of Negation. As I mentioned last week, I’ve spent a lot of years exploring the importance of NO in my life (which is funny, when you consider how most 2 year olds come by the gift naturally). In any event, I had to learn a lot about employing that magical word in order to step to the helm of my family’s business and continue to balance it with my creative and family life. What you’re about to hear is a reading based on my research and experience, adapted from my book, Redefining Rich from Benbella Books, copyright 2021. It’s called Yes to No. You can read the full transcript http://theradicalhomemaker.net/tuesday-post/celebration-of-negation-part-ii-yes-to-no/.
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A YES is sometimes just a failed NO, recognized too late. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 11 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, my first in a 3 part series that’s a Celebration of Negation. Read the story here.
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We shear the sheep right before lambing season, and then, as soon as lambing season finishes, we’re faced with getting the fleeces processed. That means June is all about the wool. Our annual wool bedding & yarn sale happens here at Sap Bush Hollow for the whole month, and we also have to get the raw fleeces to the family mills that we work with. The wool runs were once an annual affair, but they got interrupted by the pandemic. This is the first year we were able to resume them. This week, I’m talking about why that matters. I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 10 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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The older I get, the harder it is to find something to wear. Maybe that’s because my soul is increasingly laid bare. I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 9 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the story here.
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The surgeon general has finally issued a social media warning for kids. After a year of being liberated from the platforms myself, I’m pondering if more of us might benefit from that warning.… Even some of us artists and small business owners, who think it’s required in order to do business. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 8 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript here.
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You know you’re getting old when it’s considered quaint that you didn’t find your partner over a dating app. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, episode 7 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the story here.
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They say you can’t put a price on education. That’s because everyone values it differently. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, episode 6 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the story here.
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We’ve all heard about the multiplier effect as it relates to our financial lives. But I’m wondering if it has a role to play in our social & emotional lives as well. I’m shannon hayes and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 5 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the script here.
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We’ve been running Sap Bush Hollow for over 40 years. We like to think of ourselves as a well-oiled machine. Until one part of the machine stops working. Then what? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 4 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. You can read the print version here.
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Whodda thunk it could be so hard just to take a bath? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Prefer to read it? Find it here.
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Folks, clear the roads. Ula just got her learner’s permit. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 2 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Prefer to read the story? Find it over on the blog.
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New York City has some high profile celebrities in residence this week…. None more prominent, in my estimation, than Flaco. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 4, Episode 1 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Prefer to read the story? Find it over on the blog here.
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Have you ever quit something because you would never be good enough? How much have you missed because of it? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to season 3, Episode 20 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, where you gotta be baaaad to be good. Read the transcript over on the blog.
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Are we entitled to our anger if it isn’t rational? What happens if we ignore it? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 3, Episode 19 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript here.
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Do you know how to ask for help? Do you know what to do with it once you get it? I’ve been a bit slow to figure these things out…But this week, I’m realizing it’s time to crystalize a few lessons on the subject. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Episode 18 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript over on the blog.
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Does working in customer service require subservience? That’s what I’ve been wondering about this week. I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to Season 3, Episode 17 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript here.
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Little kids believe in fairies. Where does that magic go when they grow up? I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to season 3, episode 16 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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Well, we’re back from an unwanted break do adjust to Bob’s cancer diagnosis. This week, I’ll be sharing with you a little bit of what that’s been like.
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Ever had someone lecture you that if you only had a perfect diet, nothing bad would ever happen to you? I really hope that someone wasn’t me….I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 3, Episode 14 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript over here on the blog.
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Want your small farm or family business to run more smoothly? Want your customers to be happier? Your staff to be more content? Want to feel better about your work while you’re doing it, and at the end of the day? All you need are these two magic words that I’m going to teach you today. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Season 3, Episode 13 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript over here on the blog.
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When was the last time you enjoyed conversation with a stranger…In real life — not through a comment thread? I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to Season 3, Episode 12 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, about the art of conversation. Find the written transcript over on the blog.
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Spring has been rough here at Sap Bush Hollow. I’ve been feeling very sorry for myself. It helps to remember that there’s nothing special about my woes. You’re listening to Episode 11 of Season 3 of The Hearth of Sap Hollow, all about this season’s Mid-life Crisis. You can find the full transcript over here on the blog.
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As you’ll recall, our community lost a great neighbor about six weeks back when Tom Edmunds died. We finally gave him his send-off with a memorial pot luck this past weekend. And it got me thinking a lot about what makes a person truly successful in life. Your listening to Episode 10 of Season 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript here.
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Can you order eggs with a side of nuptials? You can at Sap Bush Cafe. You’re listening to Episode 9 of Season 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript here.
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Lately when I tell fellow business owners we’re no longer on social media, I’m met with sighs of envy and wistful comments like “I wish we could do that.” Maybe more of us would be better off if we did. I found I had more to say after my first piece about Slow Marketing two weeks ago. So today you’re hearing Part II. You’re listening to Episode 8 of Season 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the written transcript over on the blog here.
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Is fear of failure holding you back? Getting over it is one of the most important home-schooling lessons I’ve had to teach my daughter. Right now, we're learning about it with her debut as a director in community theater. You’re listening to Episode 7 of Season 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript and find out more details about this weekend's theater production over on the blog.
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Have you ever spent an hour scrolling on social media, put your phone down and said “Wow! That was just what I needed!”? Me neither. But can small businesses exist without social media? That’s what I’ll be exploring today on Episode 6 of Season 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Looking for the print version? Find it over on the blog.
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Dang! It’s been a record number of lousy weeks for our family. Here’s what’s getting us through. You’re listening to Episode 5 of Season 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, Tiny Miracles. If you'd like the text version of this story, find it over on the blog.
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What makes a community? Is it the good times we have together? Or how well we move through the tough times? You’re listening to episode 4 of Season 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, a story about everybody's favorite neighbor. If you prefer to read the manuscript, find it here. Please note: The podcast mentions the potluck will be held on May 19. That was an error! It will be held May 29th! If you have questions about it, email me through the contact form at sapbush.com.
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Why is it that those with nothing left have the most to give? If you'd like the transcript, find it over on the blog at sapbush.com/
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What would you do if your business were targeted in a drive-by shooting? I'm finding out. There is a little explicit language in this one. If you prefer to read this episode, you can find it over on the blog at sapbush.com.
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Welcome back to Season 3 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow!
Wanna thrive as a farmer? Learn the art of starting over.....again, and again, and again.
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Nothing is harder, and nothing is more rewarding, than being in business with family. I know this for a fact, because I’ve been doing it for 47 years. And in that time, I’ve learned a thing or two about making things work between the generations. That's what I'll be talking about on this, the final episode of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow for the 2021 season. Did you enjoy it this year? Be sure to to hop over to my Patreon Page to toss a few coins in the proverbial hat to get me through the long winter...Then enjoy the back episodes until I come back in the spring. (Or check out my blog to see where I'll be speaking over the winter ;-). Looking for the written transcript of this episode? Find it here.
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Did you ever wonder how homeschooled kids get sex ed? I guess, in school, it’s a specific class you take, probably a unit in health class. In our family, it’s just been an ongoing thing. Especially today, in light of some things that have transpired in my kids’ lives. Today’s post is an open letter to them. I’m sharing it publicly, because sex abuse is everywhere, and I’m just hoping it might spur some honest questions and discussion in your own homes. To read this episode, hop on over to blog at TheRadicalHomemaker.net.
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I read a story recently that 55% of the American workforce is in the process of changing jobs. There’s lots of discussion about more flexibility and higher pay…especially in the service industry. But what are we asking anything of the customers themselves? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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Wow. Folks get riled up when they talk about food prices when buying direct from farmers. And yet, for all the understanding the local food movement seems to have about fair wages for farmers, based on your comments these past weeks, it seems like we all have some war stories to tell In this three part series on pricing we spent the first part looking at how the complaining customer is just par for the course and learning how not to take it personally. In Part II, we heard my story about Agnes & The Cloak of Shame…And discovered how it isn’t the criticizing customers who make us feel bad, it is our own sense of shame stands in the way of us asking for what we need. In the final part, we’ll be looking at a section from my newest book, Redefining Rich and exploring the art of pricing, and how it can improve more than your business’ bottom line. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the full transcript here.
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Last week you heard about a nasty anonymous letter sent to my fellow farmer, Tricia Park of Creekside Meadows farm, berating her about her prices. All of us small, independent farmers and business owners…if we’ve been in the game for a while, have a few of these war stories to tell. This week I’m going to share one of my favorites, about Agnes and The Cloak of Shame. This is part two of my three part series on Pricing &Spiritual Well-Being. This section is excerpted from my newest book, Redefining Rich. You can find the full transcript here.
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What happens if your customers or clients don’t think you deserve the prices you ask? How do you hold your head up? How do you stay in business? This is a big subject, so I’m doing a three-part series on Pricing and Spiritual Well-being. Welcome to week one. I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. If you'd like to read the full transcript, you can find it over on the blog.
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What are we looking for when we go away, and how far do we have to go to find it?
I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. You can find the full transcript of this story over on the blog at Sapbush.com.
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Raging fires, devastating floods, fierce heat. July was tough in terms of climate change. While our situation has not been anywhere near as dire as in other parts of the country & world, we’ve definitely taken a few knocks here at Sap Bush Hollow. But the beauty of the hard knocks is how they clear your sight for the moments of redemption.
Read the transcript here.
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Wanna get rich RIGHT NOW? Check out this episode, then hurry up and order your copy of Redefining Rich, due out from BenBella books on Aug 10! Read the transcript here.
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There are times when being in business means taking one hit after another. These past few weeks have been that way. And sometimes that means the bank accounts run dry, the customers are dissatisfied, the flood waters rise, and stuff just keeps breaking. That’s when I turn to the ghosts. And poetry. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Episode 17 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow: Better Business with Sufi Mystics & the Paranormal. Ps: You can read the full story here. Also, in the spirit of last week's lesson on accepting imperfection, I have NOT edited my misuse of the word turgidto the correct word, turbid ,in this recording....And I gotta tell ya...It's REALLY difficult for me!
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BEWARE THE PRICE OF PERFECTIONISM….HEED THIS CAUTIONARY TALE!
I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to episode 16 of season 2 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Listen to the full transcript here.
Ps: You'll note that I used the word turgidity in the recording when I should have used the word turbidity. But in spirit of the lessons taught here, I've chosen to let it go and not edit it out.
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What do pig castrations have to do with mourning a spouse? You’re about to find out! I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to episode 15 of season 2 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the transcript here.
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What do we remember most about our lives? Is it the achievements? Or was it the excitement of the struggles along the way? I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to episode 14 of season 2 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the full 'script here.
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As a parent, I feel compelled to fight the loneliness my daughter’s face as a result of Bob’s and my choices. But should I? You’re listening to Epidsode 13 of Season 2 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the transcript here.
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What happens when a farmer, a roaster & a homemaker walk into a cafe?
A book gets written!
Listen in for a sneak peak into my newest book, Redefining Rich, due out from BenBella Books this August. Also, learn how you can join the launch team AND earn a summer-long discount at the Sap Bush online farm store (and yes, we ship!).
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Why is it hardest to see the beauty that’s most commonly before us? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Find the link to the transcript here.
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Oh, to love what is lovely, and will not last!
What a task
to ask
Of anything, or anyone,
Yet it is ours,
and not by the century or the year, but by the hours.
— Mary Oliver, Snow Geese
I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to Episode 10 of season 2 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, a story about loving & losing and loving some more. Find the transcript on the Sap Bush website.
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The opinion piece written by the doctor for the NY Times says there are four types of folks who are resisting the Covid vaccine: the Watchful, the Cost-Anxious, the System Distrusters, and Covid Skeptics. None of these describes Ula. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to season 2, episode 9 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, a story about vaccines and asses. Read the full transcript here.
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Think springtime on the farm is all fuzzy chicks and lambs? Think again. I’m shannon hayes and you’re listening to Season 2, Ep. 8 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Read the full transcript here.
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Nothing is going as planned this week. All the tidy organization is messy. It’s beautiful. You’re listening to Season 2, Episode 7 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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Our life is crowded, messy and chaotic. And a teeny little vacation helps shed light on the fact that, well, I guess we like it like that. You’re listening to episode six of season 2 of the Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
Find the transcript here.
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Spring peepers. They’re both ephemeral and permanent, mystical and down-to-earth. You’re listening to Episode 5 of Season 2 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
Read the full transcript over on the blog.
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Covid took away a lot of choices for my family. We adapted. But how will we manage once those choices return? I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to Episode 4 of Season two of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow: Saoirse’s Choice. Read the full transcript here.
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It’s a thing for me. Maybe more of a fixation. Or obsession? I want our cafe to be able to turn out PERFECT homemade croissants every week. But then there’s reality...Read the transcript and learn more about Sap Bush Hollow Farm here.
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Life here at Sap Bush Hollow is not without pain - it’s hard work, accidents happen, and we get old and ouchie. But sometimes pain is the reminder we need to love what we have even more. The text version of this piece can be found at sapbush.com.
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There’s so much coming and going in life. This week is a story about a dog teaching me to “STAY.” If you'd like the full text of this story, you can find it on the blog at www.sapbush.com.
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How does our need to be liked by our teachers, to make them happy, effect our learning and personal growth? That’s what I’m pondering this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, episode 36.
Folks, this is be my last podcast of the season. It’s time for me to wind things down, to live a little more privately and begin the process of recharging my batteries for next year. If all goes as planned, The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow Podcast will return in spring of 2021. But, thanks to the support of my blog patrons, all the back archives have been restored to public access for the next few months. So now you can re-listen to back episodes while I’m hibernating!
All of these podcasts happen with the support of my patrons and Patreon. If you’d like to support my work for as little as $1/month, please head on over to the Shannon Hayes page on Patreon and sign up. You’ll have access to exclusive content, including chapters from my novel-in-progress, Angels & Stones. I’ve taken my inspiration from Charles’ Dickens and serialized the book for your reading pleasure. The chapters from the previous years’ postings are all up there, and we’ll pick up with season 3 of Angels & Stones in January. That said, my first post in January will include all the chapters from the previous seasons, so if you’re coming late, don’t worry! We’ll bring you up to speed before moving forward.
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Returning to business-as-usual after losing a favorite customer is BRUTAL. And that has me pondering this place where love, community and commerce coincide. I’m Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to episode 35 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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I know we are all supposed to believe in ourselves. But what magic unfolds when someone helps us along by believing in us first? Today is the story of a great knight-errant, on a quest to help as many people as possible by doing just that.
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Farming is tough. But how much easier is it for me because of the color of my skin? I’m Shannon Hayes & that’s what I’ll be talking about today on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, episode 33.
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I still remember my first wilderness camping trip from when I was a teenager: what we ate, what we talked about, how I felt at each moment. And I remember the adult who was willing to bring me to that place. The experience was so important to me, Bob and I took our own kids on the exact same trip this past week. I’m Shannon Hayes, and that’s what I’ll be talking about this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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This is the year small farm life is becoming a fast-paced life for many. We opted out. Today I’m going to talk about one of the reasons why. This week’s story is about The Sweet Spot. You’re listening to The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow with Shannon Hayes.
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My house is a wreck, my email box is flooded, my to-do list is out of control, my feet are tired….It must be August…And You’re listening to Episode 30 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow: The Choice.
Looking for the back episodes? You can access all of them over on the Shannon Hayes Patreon page for as little as $1/month. Thanks for supporting my work!
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“Alice laughed. 'There's no use trying,' she said. 'One can't believe impossible things.'
I daresay you haven't had much practice,' said the Queen. 'When I was your age, I always did it for half-an-hour a day. Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”
I’ve been reminded this week of the importance of believing the impossible. You’re listening to Episode 28 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, Prognosis.
Missing back episodes of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow? Find them on Shannon Hayes' Patreon page!
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Does anyone find it interesting that, in the debate about whether to open or close schools, and how that impacts parents trying to work and manage kids…That no one asked the folks who do it every day for insights? For what it’s worth, I’m going to offer them up today with 7 tips for thriving while your kids school at home. You’re listening to Episode 27 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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If we all ascribe to the same values, how come we don’t all have to play by the same rules? I don’t get it. I’m Shannon Hayes and you’re listening to The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, and this is a story about a croissant.
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What lengths will we go to to create a unique memory during this pandemic , when every day can seem the same? You're listening to Shannon Hayes on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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One of my greatest anxieties is that I’m not the farmer that my parents have always been. Not even close. And at a moment when I was most distressed by my perceived failing, my daughter left me gob-smacked by sharing her own deepest fears. This is Shannon Hayes, and you’re listening to The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, episode 24, Quitting Time.
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I used to be frightened of teenagers. Today, I can hardly fathom that. I can’t image my life without them. You’re listening to episode 23 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, Thoughts at 2am.
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Shutting our cafe for the pandemic felt like turning off my purpose for being here. When we decided to re-open, my biggest worry was protecting my customers. This past week, I saw what they did to protect me. Welcome to Episdoe 22 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow, Fellowship.
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I used to be so frightened of lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses that I deprived myself of too many joys of the natural world. Eventually I replaced that fear with information and education, and I found my way back out into the wildnerness. I’ve been reflecting on that experiece a lot as we re-open Sap Bush Cafe . That’s what I’ll be talking about this week; and I’ll also be sharing with you an important bill going before congress who’s passage will enable more small farmers to deliver safely raised and processed meat to consumers…And the failure of it will force more of us out of business. Please be sure to listen so you’ll know how to help.
PS: If you're wondering what that noise in the background of the recording is...It was POURING when I recorded this week!!!
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I received a note from Jessi, who’s farming in West Michigan, asking for my thoughts on how farming/rural living attracts very liberal and very conservative folks. She writes, “I've just been processing a lot of thoughts about neighborliness and civility in the face of seeing neighbors show more extremist views and actions during these hard times.” Jesse wonders if there’s a way to navigate and stay true to your beliefs while being civil.
I had some other projects I had to work on, so I didn’t schedule my response to Jessi until this week.
And whoa. What a week to try and answer this question….
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How would the Red Baron counsel a small business owner navigating a pandemic? That’s what I’ll be pondering this week, on the Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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We wish and pray for so many things in life: for a healthier planet, for peace, for more time, for deeper connection with family. Sometimes we get our prayers answered. But before we fully understand the costs involved. That’s what I’ll be talking about this week on Episode 18 of The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow : The Ash Tree.
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These days, EVERYONE’S schooling at home….But it’s not quite the same as home-schooling. And while some families are stressed out by this transition to schooling-at-home, home-schooling is keeping our family and farm together right now. That’s what I’ll be talking about this week, along with a quick farmer Q & A about pricing strategies to accomodate social distancing measures. You’re listening to Episode 17, Essential Kids, on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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Bob didn’t want a cake for this birthday. He didn’t want a candle, and didn’t want a fuss. But his family needed all those things. That’s what I’ll be talking about this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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As small farmers, we don’t ask for much. We draw our wealth from the earth and our family and community. That's fine. But just because we don’t ask for much doesn’t mean it doesn’t sting when the message comes through loud and clear from our government that we don’t mean much. That’s what I’ll be talking about this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. If you prefer to read this, you can find it over on the blog at SapBush.com
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Truth be told, it’s going pretty well for me right now. Kids are making the masks, I was never one to go out in public much anyhow, the business is holding up and our family is enjoying our time together. And I feel guilty as all get out. I’ll be talking about how I’m trying to make sense of it this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. Prefer to read instead of listen? You can find it over at the website (along with info about everything else we do here on the farm).
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Some people were super prepared for this outbreak. Not only that, they were super-prepped for war, famine, hurricanes, earthquakes, you name it. Does that mean they’re in better shape right now than the rest of us? Not necessarily. That’s what I’ll be talking about this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. You can read the story on the blog at Sapbush.com.
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I used to know where to put things. I used to know when to put them there, and how to move them to create food. With all these changes, I feel like I’m back to square one. How will I re-learn my new job? You can read the full transcript on the blog @ Sapbush.com.
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I’ve been reading and hearing it said that we Americans are too individualistic and selfish to make the changes that can flatten the curve. This week, one of my kids reminded me of another powerful attribute we have as a culture that could make all the difference. If you prefer to read this, you can find the full essay on the blog at Sapbush.com.
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As farmers, we all keep reminding ourselves that we don’t get to stop just because there’s a new virus outbreak. And it’s true. The grass still grows, and the pigs don’t care, and those chickens keep laying eggs. But my job is on the community and financial side of the business. I had to stop and experience everything in my soul until I could figure out how to go. That’s what I’ll be talking about this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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Quick question:
What do the IRS and Coronavirus have in common?
I’ll start:
They’re both annoying.
They both incite fear.
And they both teach us that our emotions are what makes working with them complicated. Remove anger and fear, and suddenly they’re not so bad.
That’s what I’ll be talking about this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow Podcast, episode 9, Coronavirus and the IRS. If you prefer, you can read it on the blog here.
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When Bob & I chose to join the family farm, run our own business, homeschool our kids & live in a rural area, we made a unique set of opportunities available to our children. But that meant we deprived them of others. So what happens when our children get ready to move off in their own directions, and discover that we’ve deprived them of extra-curriculuar skills they might need? That’s what I’ll be talking about this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow.
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They say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure….But how do you decide which is which in a beautiful, albeit economically depressed rural county that needs to attract tourism? That’s what I’ll be talking about this week on The Hearth of Sap Bush Hollow. It’s all about blue tarps and junk heaps!
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How do you stay healthy in rural America with poor access to healthcare, especially when you’re self-employed and living on a low income? That’s a great question that came in from a reader in Baltimore recently, and this week, I’m going to try to answer it.
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Death happens a lot on a family farm. That doesn't make it any easier to face. But it does give us, as parents, an opportunity to help our children learn to deal with it. Sometimes this means letting them face their regrets and grow from them. You can read the full text version here.
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It's hard to judge the profitability of a farm from a tax return. The wealth and sustenance it provides can be impossible to measure. But that doesn't mean we don't need an economic strategy for survival. Here's what Bob and I use to keep afloat while still relishing the good life. You can read the full text version here.
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Some say it's about location-location-location. Some think it takes an MBA, or unbelievable luck, or incredible business acumen. I say its way simpler. But harder. Our family celebrated 40 years on Sap Bush Hollow in 2019, these, I believe, are our four secrets for success. If you'd like to read the story, you can find it here.
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After much debate, labor and considerable strife, Sap Bush Cafe was granted a beer and wine license on January 1st, and we moved from a Saturdays-only Breakfast-Brunch venue to Saturdays-only, Breakfast-Brunch-Lunch-Dinner venue. It sounds minor, but it effectively resulted in doubling the number of hours our business (run by introverts) is open to the public. And it presents a lot of changes and challenges for our family-work-life balance. Here's a story about how we're negotiating those challenges. You can read the full text version here.
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In episode O1, Secrets for Thriving 40 Years on a Family Farm, I mentioned that one of the secrets is that forgiveness is good for business. What I failed to mention is that forgiveness begins with forgiving ourselves, as I was reminded in this story. You can read the full text version here.
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Join me for the kick-off episode of the new audio version of The Radical Homemaker blog from Sap Bush Hollow Farm. This week's episode shares a little bit about how we got to here and now.
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