For the Love of Goats

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-milk-ice-cream-and-gelato/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! DescriptionIf you’ve ever wondered how to turn your goat milk into something people line up for, this episode is for you! In this episode of For the Love of Goats, host Deborah Niemann chats with Oskar Edwall from Sweden, who started with just a few goats and ended up creating a thriving business making goat milk ice cream and gelato.Oskar shares how his curiosity for goat milk led to raising his own herd, experimenting with recipes, and eventually perfecting creamy, flavorful gelato that customers can’t get enough of. From using Swedish dairy goats and Anglo-Nubians to learning gelato-making, he explains the science, creativity, and passion behind his success.Whether you’re dreaming of selling your own goat milk ice cream, experimenting with gelato recipes, or just love hearing about creative ways goats can support a homestead, this episode is packed with inspiration (and maybe a few cravings too!).You may also enjoy:Episode 161 - Turning Goat Milk into Pet Food: Labeling and Licensing Essentials Episode 156 - From Lab Coat to Cheesecloth: Dr. Kandice Marchant’s Delicious Second ActEpisode 33 - Prairie Fruits Farm and CreameryThanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-yoga/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! DescriptionWhen people hear you have goats, one of the first questions they ask is, “Do you do goat yoga?” In this fun and fascinating episode, host Deborah Niemann talks with the person who started it all—Lainey Morse, founder of the original Goat Yoga in Oregon’s Willamette Valley.Lainey shares how goat yoga began in 2016 during one of the most difficult times of her life—and how a simple idea for “Goat Happy Hour” transformed into a viral global phenomenon featured on CNN, People Magazine, The New York Times, and more.You’ll hear how she built her business from her farm to multiple licensed locations across the U.S., what makes goats perfect partners for yoga, and the practical realities—like insurance, zoning, and goat care—that many people overlook when they try to start goat yoga on their own.Whether you’ve thought about starting goat yoga yourself, or just want to understand why the world fell in love with it, this episode is full of heart, humor, and inspiration.You may also enjoy:Ep #85 Goat Business Ideas: How to Make Money With Your GoatsEp #159 How Beekman 1802 Used GOAT Wisdom to Build a Beloved Brand Ep #142 Rent a Goat: Turning Goatscaping into a Thriving BusinessEp #127 Success with Dairy Goats: Goat Milk StuffEp #132 Farm Stays: The Key to a Diversified FarmThanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/uterine-tears-in-goats/-- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! DescriptionIn this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Dr. Daniela Luethy, Assistant Professor of Large Animal Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, to discuss the realities of uterine tears in goats, risk factors, and what goat owners need to know as kidding season approaches. Dr. Luethy shares the results of a new multicenter study on reproductive complications in goats and clarifies common misunderstandings about prevention, symptoms, and management of uterine tears.If you raise goats, are anticipating kids, or want expert insight into kidding emergencies, this episode is a must-listen.What You’ll Learn:Why uterine tears happen in goats and why they’re often misunderstoodThe challenges of researching goat reproductive disordersStudy findings: prevalence, risk factors, and survival rates for uterine tearsWhy small breed goats are at greater risk—especially with on-farm interventionThe warning signs of uterine tears and how they differ from vaginal tearsWhen to call a vet and how to reduce the risks during kiddingWhat goat owners can do to help prevent serious complicationsWhy veterinary involvement can save livesWhat’s still unknown about rebreeding goats that survived a uterine tearAreas where more research is needed on goat reproductive healthResources:Multicenter study of uterine tears and other reproductive complications in periparturient goats presented to veterinary teaching hospitalsPregnancy Toxemia in Goats (podcast)University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine - FacebookUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine - InstagramThanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/the-science-of-goat-milk-and-skin-care/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! DescriptionGoat milk has been used for centuries to soothe and nourish skin—but now science is catching up to explain why it works so well. In this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Dr. Brent Ridge, physician and co-founder of Beekman 1802, to explore the research behind goat milk’s unique skin benefits. From maintaining the skin’s pH to supporting a healthy microbiome, Dr. Ridge shares insights from more than a decade of clinical studies and product development.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why goat milk’s pH is so important for protecting sensitive skin.How gentle cleansing with goat milk helps preserve the skin’s barrier.The role of oligosaccharides in nourishing beneficial bacteria on the skin.What the skin microbiome is—and why balance matters more than “good” or “bad” bacteria.How lactic acid in goat milk provides gentle daily exfoliation without irritation.The discovery of goat milk exosomes and their potential in advanced skin care.The science behind peptides in goat milk and how smaller fragments may deliver targeted benefits.Why Beekman 1802 lists “kindness” as an ingredient in every product—and how it’s linked to overall wellness and longevity.Whether you make your own goat milk soap or simply want to understand the science behind it, this episode offers fascinating insights into how nature’s original moisturizer works at a cellular level.Resources:Beekman 1802Goat Wisdom by Brent Ridge & Josh Kilmer-PurcellBuy on AmazonBuy on BookshopThanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to --  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-packing-and-public-lands/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! DescriptionIn this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Chris Gifford, president of the North American Packgoat Association (NAPgA), to talk about the growing challenges that pack goat owners face when it comes to accessing public lands.Chris explains what goat packing is, how it works, and why goats make excellent trail companions. He also shares the history of NAPgA and its advocacy efforts to keep public lands open to pack goat users in the face of increasing restrictions—most of which stem from unproven concerns about disease transmission between goats and wild bighorn sheep.If you’ve ever wanted to take your goats hiking or are curious about the barriers pack goat users face, this episode offers both inspiration and insight into an issue that affects animal lovers, hikers, and land use advocates alike.What You’ll Learn:What goat packing is and how it works on the trailHow Chris got involved in goat packing and NAPgAWhy some public lands are closed to pack goats—and what the science does not sayHow to find out if a specific public land is open to pack goat useWhat NAPgA is doing to protect access to public landsThe differences between pack goats and domestic sheep, and why that mattersWhere goat packing as a sport is headed in the futureResources Mentioned:North American Packgoat Association (NAPgA)NAPgA Facebook PageMycoplasma In Goats - podcast episodeThanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/packing-with-goats/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! DescriptionIf you're considering adding pack goating to your goats’ resumes, this episode is packed with practical tips and essential insights. Deborah Niemann chats with Nathan Putnam, a board member of the North American Pack Goat Association and owner of Putnam Pack Goats. Together, they dive into the world of pack goats, from choosing the right goats to the gear you'll need for your trips.In this episode, you’ll learn:The history of pack goating and how it started in the 1970s.Why pack goats are a growing alternative to horses and llamas for backcountry hiking and camping.What to look for in a goat for packing: from breed preferences to physical traits and characteristics.The age at which to start training your goats and how to gradually increase their load capacity.Essential gear for pack goating, including saddles, panniers, and leads.How to train adult goats, even those already in your herd, to become pack goats.What to expect on a typical pack goating trip: daily routines, feeding, and water strategies.Dealing with predators and other considerations when hiking with goats in the backcountry.Whether you’re looking to start pack goating or just want to learn more about it, this episode offers valuable advice and inspiration. Nathan shares his experience and knowledge, making it easier than ever to embark on your own pack goat adventure.Resources:North American Pack Goat Association (NAPgA)Putnam Pack GoatsIf you’ve ever thought about earning an income with goats, check out our list of goat business ideas to spark your own inspiration.Thanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/turning-goat-milk-into-pet-food/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! DescriptionIf you’ve ever wondered what it takes to legally sell raw goat milk or farm-made pet treats, this episode is full of first-hand insight and practical tips. Deborah sits down with Carly Brown and Shawn Phillips of The Good Steward Farm in Virginia, where their herd of 28 goats helps power two small businesses: goat-powered landscaping and licensed raw milk pet products.Carly and Shawn walk us through the behind-the-scenes process of getting a pet feed license, working with state inspectors, completing nutritional testing, and creating professional packaging that customers trust—all while reducing waste and adding value to every part of the farm.In this episode, you’ll learn how Carly and Shawn:Navigated labeling laws and testing requirements to sell raw milk legally as pet foodTurned their freeze dryer into a profit-making machine for chicken heads and yogurt treatsWorked with state officials to get label approvals and avoid regulatory pitfallsDeveloped packaging that instantly improved product appeal and salesBalanced their goat business with full-time jobs and a multi-herd setupMaintained transparency and integrity while planning for future human-grade dairy salesWhether you're exploring a goat-based business, interested in pet food production, or just love hearing what’s possible with a little grit and goat love, this episode is sure to inspire.Thanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/farm-volunteer-program/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! DescriptionIn this episode, Deborah Niemann welcomes Anne Petersen of Rosasharn Farm—one of the longest-standing Nigerian Dwarf breeders in the U.S.—to talk about her farm's long-running and highly successful volunteer program. What began as hosting a foreign exchange student over two decades ago has evolved into a dynamic educational experience that has inspired many former volunteers to start their own farms and even veterinary careers.Anne shares how her program organically developed through her involvement in 4-H, homeschooling, and local agricultural organizations. She emphasizes that the key to a successful volunteer program is education, not free labor, and dives into how she models tasks and responsibilities for volunteers of all ages.Whether you're thinking of starting a volunteer program or just love hearing about farm-based community building, you’ll find inspiration, insight, and practical advice in this thoughtful and experience-rich conversation.What You’ll Learn:How Anne’s volunteer program started and evolved over 40+ yearsWhy education is at the heart of her farm’s volunteer experienceThe importance of modeling and working with your volunteersLessons learned from early challenges, including personality mismatchesWhy understanding a volunteer’s intentions and mindset is criticalHow former volunteers have launched their own farms and careersAdvice for farmers considering starting their own volunteer programResources Mentioned:Rosasharn FarmSoutheastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP)4-H Youth ProgramsLocal Young Farmer NetworksThanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-wisdom/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! DescriptionWhat do you get when two city guys buy a goat farm during the Great Recession? A global skincare brand built on goat milk—and timeless wisdom.In this inspiring episode, Deborah talks with Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge, the founders of Beekman 1802, about how they went from weekend farmers to building a multi-million-dollar business using lessons learned from goats, neighbors, and small-town living.🧼 From making goat cheese and soap📚 To releasing their new book G.O.A.T. Wisdom: How to Build a Truly Great Business with Harvard Business Review💡 They share actionable insights for homesteaders, small business owners, and anyone dreaming of turning their passion into a meaningful business.You’ll hear about:How goats (and a neighbor’s kindness) saved their farmWhy they started with goat milk soap and what they learned along the wayThe importance of not doing everything yourself, and focusing on what you bring to the tableThe power of treating customers as “neighbors”Lessons in marketing, scaling, and community-buildingAnd how to convert everyday wisdom into entrepreneurial successResources Mentioned:G.O.A.T. Wisdom: How to Build a Truly Great Business Buy on AmazonBuy on BookshopThe Bucolic Plague: How Two Manhattanites Became Gentlemen Farmers Buy on AmazonBuy on BookshopConnect with the Beekman BoysBeekman 1802 WebsiteJosh & Brent on InstagramBeekman 1802 Boys on FacebookThanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/call-the-vet-now/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description Most goat owners have faced a moment of uncertainty—staring at a sick goat and wondering, “Should I call the vet?” In this solo episode, Deborah Niemann lays out the answer with clarity and urgency.While goats are often thought of as hardy animals, they are also prey animals that instinctively hide illness until they’re critically sick. This episode covers the top emergency symptoms that signal you need to stop Googling, skip the Facebook group, and call a veterinarian immediately.Drawing from decades of goat-keeping experience and real-life stories (including her own hard lessons), Deborah walks through what serious symptoms look like, what they might mean, and why waiting too long can cost your goat its life. She also explains when supportive care at home can help while you wait for the vet to arrive—and when it can’t.What you’ll learn:The most common and overlooked emergency signs in goatsWhy not eating or drinking is a major red flag, not a minor issueHow to identify true bloat (ruminal tympany) versus hay bellyThe meaning behind a goat screaming, grinding teeth, or lying down and not standingThe difference between ruminal and abomasal bloat—and why it mattersSigns of neurological distress, including circling, blindness, and seizuresWhy urinary blockage is a life-threatening emergency in wethersHow to tell the difference between pooping and peeing behaviorThe dangers of bloody or rusty urine, and when it could signal copper toxicityWhy Pepto Bismol is not a real treatment for diarrhea in kidsWhat a goat’s fever (or low body temp) may indicate—and what to doRecognizing tetanus symptoms before it’s too lateThanks for tuning in! If you’d like to support the content you love and help us keep bringing you new goat resources, you can do that through our Tip Jar. No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information. 🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership 🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy 🔹Looking for Deborah's books? They can be purchased wherever books are sold, or you can get an autographed copy on our online store. Happy goat-keeping! 🐐