Episode 71: From Novice To Expert: How A Desire For A Different Way Of Life Became The Best Teacher Of All With Deborah Niemann

Having zero experience in farming, with her only exposure with animals in raising two cats and a poodle, my latest guest Deborah Niemann bravely took on the challenge of moving to the country in 2002 to start growing organic food. Although the move was a long time dream of Deborah's, she was a complete novice and learned as she went.

Her desire to grow her own food, turned into raising and breeding goats for her family's dairy needs that include milk, cheese, butter, yogurt and even soap. Deborah’s first 2 goats quickly turned into 20, and her desire to make a simple chévre launched a new career helping others raise goats and learn to be more self-reliant and create a more sustainable life.

Naturally, she encountered lots of difficulties while raising goats without experience. She had goats die, have difficulty getting pregnant & staying pregnant, and often found no vets who could help her. So she began researching on her own and decided to share her knowledge with others. She has now authored 6 books, including Homegrown and Handmade, Raising Goats Naturally, and Goats Giving Birth to help other people who experienced the same difficulties as hers!

I loved my conversation with Deborah and her "can do" attitude! You'll hear her story about why she decided to completely uproot her family and move to the countryside. Deborah’s determination about her struggles which has led to a wonderful life for her and her family, is a great example to all.

If you want to know more about Deborah’s works, you can connect with her from the links below:
Website: https://thriftyhomesteader.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/thriftyhomesteader
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thriftyhomesteader
Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/thriftyhomesteader

If you'd like to connect or reach out to ME, you can find me at:
Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma/
Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma