🎙️ Parasite resistance, fecal egg counts, and homestead decluttering


Hello Reader,

This August, I released four new podcast episodes about parasite resistance, fecal egg counts, homestead decluttering, and funding farm projects.

I also introduced Goat Notes, a new series of short episodes that takes a closer look at one goat question, misconception, or research-based concept at a time. Whether you raise goats, manage a busy homestead, or dream of starting something new on your farm, there’s something here for you.

You can download the episode to listen offline—perfect if you’re out in the field with no signal. Here's how! Prefer reading? A full transcript is available too!

​Parasite Resistance, Resilience, and Dewormer Resistance

In this first Goat Note, I explain the important differences between parasite resistance, parasite resilience, and dewormer resistance—and why they matter when managing your herd.

​Why a Fecal Egg Count Doesn’t Always Tell You Whether a Goat Needs to Be Dewormed

In this second Goat Note, I explain why a fecal egg count alone cannot tell you whether a goat needs to be dewormed.

Building on the first episode about parasite resistance and resilience, I explain why two goats with similar egg counts may have very different treatment needs—and why a low count does not always mean a goat is healthy.

​​Homestead Decluttering

Clutter can build up quickly on a homestead as tools, livestock supplies, equipment, and all those things we might need “someday” begin taking over our spaces.

In this episode, I’m joined by decluttering expert Melanie Cohen and several Goats 365 members to discuss where preparedness ends and clutter begins—and how to decide what to keep and what to let go.

​How to Use Kickstarter for Farm Projects

Could Kickstarter help you fund—or test demand for—your next farm project?

In this episode, I share what I learned from using Kickstarter for our farm’s glamping tent and talk with Kickstarter’s Oriana Leckert about how crowdfunding works, what makes a project a good fit, and what creators should know before launching a campaign.

Happy Goatherding!
​
Deborah
and the Thrifty Homesteader Team

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You probably know that I create the podcast and pay my editing and publishing team at no cost to listeners.

The best way you can help is by rating, reviewing, and sharing the podcast after listening. It only takes a minute, but it can make a big difference for other goat owners who are looking for reliable information.

If you’d like to go one step further, you can also support our work directly—kind of like buying us a cup of coffee! ☕

📚Want to Learn Even More?

  • Did you know we have a Youtube Channel with over 700 videos? From goat care to soapmaking, cheesemaking, and more—you’ll find practical, real-life tips to support your homesteading journey.
  • Looking to dive deeper? Visit the Goat Academy—your go-to resource for online courses on everything from goat health and nutrition to soapmaking, gardening, composting, and starting a homestead business. Whether you’re just getting started or want to level up your skills, there’s a course for you.
  • Need ongoing guidance and community support? Goats 365 is our membership program that gives you full access to six comprehensive courses, live Q&A sessions, and an engaged group of goat owners who are learning and growing together—365 days a year.

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PO Box 181, Cornell, IL 61319
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Deborah Niemann @ Thrifty Homesteader

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