Эпизоды
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It’s been a long, hot minute since I last recorded Farm Life Psych, but we’re here now. In this episode, I’m checking in—not just with myself, but with you too. If you’ve been feeling the weight of dry conditions, long harvests, or just the constant juggle of farm, family, and life, this episode is for you.
I’ll share some of the struggles and lessons from the past few months, as well as a simpleself-check-in exercise to help you pause, reflect, and take small steps forward. Because when life feels relentless, sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simply stop and notice.
🎧Tune in to hear:
✔️ A personal update on farm stress, mental load, and navigating burnout
✔️ A simpleself-check-in exercise to reconnect with yourself
✔️ Why we often avoid checking in—and what happens when we finally do
✔️ How to assess what’sworking andwhat’s not in your daily habits
✔️ Small, doable actions to help you manage stress and build resilience🛑Take a moment to pause, check in, and take one small action for yourself today.
💬Let’s continue the conversation!
📩What’s one thing you noticed when you checked in with yourself today? Send me a message on:
📍Instagram & Facebook:@stephschmidt.farmlifepsych
📍LinkedIn:Stephanie Schmidt
📍Email:[email protected]💡Got a tricky challenge or a question for the podcast? Submit it for the ‘Ask Steph’ segment here:stephschmidt.com.au/asksteph.
If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend or your partner—and don’t forget to follow or subscribe! 🎙️✨
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Join Steph Schmidt: Farmer, Psychologist, Farm wief and Mum based in South Australia.
In this episode, Steph navigates through the ups and downs of farm life while offering valuable advice on mental well-being. She shares a "Find Your Feet" grounding techniques and tackle an "Ask Steph" question regarding managing the stress of working with farmers during a drought while living on a farm.
Key Topics:
1. Introduction to Grounding Techniques (00:00:00 - 00:02:11):
- Importance of taking moments to ground yourself in everyday life via focused breathing, using your senses, or feeling your feet on the ground.
2. Life on the Farm (00:02:11 - 00:05:17):
- The complexities of dealing with much-needed but potentially damaging rainfall.
- The emotional rollercoaster of weather impacts on crops and property.
3. Finding Your Focus (00:05:17 - 00:06:06):
- Overcoming scattered thoughts post-school holidays and learning to prioritize tasks effectively.
4. A Grounding Exercise (00:06:06 - 00:09:36):
- Step-by-step guide to a three-minute grounding exercise focusing on feet and body awareness.
- Encouragement to incorporate this practice into daily life and observe its benefits.
6. Ask Steph: Managing Farm Life and Work Boundaries (00:11:13 - 00:24:16):
- Tackling a listener's question about handling the emotional and logistical challenges of farm life during drought conditions.
- Practical advice on managing household water restrictions, laundry logistics, and maintaining emotional boundaries between work and home.
- Importance of self-care and seeking professional supervision in mental health roles.
7. Maintaining Balance and Well-Being (00:24:16 - 00:26:38):
- Emphasizing the need for self-care to ensure the ability to support others effectively.
- Discussion on the ongoing challenges and stresses of farm life and how to manage them.
Share the Love:
- Share your thoughts and experiences with Steph at [Email: [email protected]].
- Connect with Steph on social media:
- Instagram: @stephschmidt.farmlifepsych
- LinkedIn: Steph Schmidt
Quote of the Episode:
> "We can't give from an empty cup. So we can't keep giving to our clients, keep giving to people around us if we are not actually taking that time in caring and taking care of ourselves as well."
Resources:
- Reach out for individual support if needed:
- Consult with your GP or a mental health practitioner
- Grounding exercises and how to incorporate them into daily life
**Listener Question Submission:**
- Have a question for the "Ask Steph" segment? Submit your queries to HERE for a chance to be featured in future episodes.
Thank you for tuning in to the Farm Life Psych Podcast with Steph Schmidt. Stay grounded and take care! 🎙️🌾
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Пропущенные эпизоды?
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Following on from the mini-sode of Episode 11 - this week we explore the things that get us stuck.
Exploring Catalysts and Kryptonites in Farm Life PsychIn this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, farm wife, and mum, explores the idea of "kryptonites" - those little things that get us stuck. She shares her own experiences of feeling stuck and out of control, particularly during busy school holidays. She discusses the concept of identifying 'kryptonites'—the elements that lead to feelings of being stuck—and encourages listeners to notice these feelings to better manage them. Steph also shares listener feedback about personal catalysts that aid in well-being, emphasizing awareness and connection to the environment. The episode focuses on reflecting on emotional responses and making intentional choices to cope with challenges. Steph invites listeners to engage in discussions about their own 'kryptonites' and experiment with self-awareness over the week.
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Finding Your Catalyst: Enhancing Well-being Amidst the Farm Life JuggleIn this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, farm wife, and mother, introduces the concept of 'mini sodes' in the spirit of Bluey. She explores strategies to help navigate the challenges of farm life and tough times, focusing on identifying personal catalysts for improving mental health and well-being. Steph emphasizes the importance of finding that one activity, such as exercise or good sleep, that can trigger positive changes in other aspects of life. She encourages listeners to experiment with different catalysts and share their experiences on social media, fostering a community of ideas and support.00:00 Introduction to Farm Life Psych
00:42 Navigating Tough Times
02:16 The Concept of a Catalyst
03:25 Personal Catalysts for Well-being
04:50 Finding Your Own Catalyst
06:04 Conclusion and Call to Action
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In this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, wife, and mum, delves into the mental load and stress faced by farmers, especially during challenging seasons.
Steph introduces the concept of cognitive defusion to help listeners get some space from their overwhelming thoughts and shares practical tools such as the 'I'm having the thought that' exercise and the leaves on the stream analogy.
The episode also addresses an "Ask Steph" question about staying sober while living alone in rural areas, highlighting the importance of resources like Sober in the Country and techniques like urge surfing.
Steph concludes by encouraging self-care, open communication, and compassion, and invites listeners to subscribe, share, and leave reviews to help spread the word about the podcast.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
02:41 Checking In and Managing Stress
07:12 Mindfulness and Cognitive Defusion
19:36 Ask Steph: Staying Sober in Isolation
27:54 Final Thoughts and Outro
Submit an Ask Steph Question
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In this episode of Farm Life Psych, Steph Schmidt shares her firsthand experiences and practical strategies for managing stress in the challenging farming environment.
She explores the importance of acknowledging emotions and provides insights into the practice of radical acceptance. Steph underscores the impact of stress on relationships and emphasizes the importance of repairing ruptured connections. She also offers actionable tips for staying present and coping with difficult situations.
Tune in for a deep dive into mental resilience and practical ways to navigate tough times.
Get little reminders in your inbox: www.stephschmidt.com.au/littlerocks
00:00 Understanding Emotions in Difficult Situations
00:22 Introduction to Farm Life Psych Episode
00:37 Current Challenges in South Australian Farming
02:56 Personal Experiences and Observations
04:38 Managing Stress and Relationships
10:33 The Concept of Radical Acceptance
16:12 Practical Strategies for Coping
23:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
24:48 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
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In this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt—a psychologist, farmer, farm wife, and mum—discusses the intricacies of recognizing and managing mental health challenges in the farming community. She explores symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, offering listeners insight into identifying these signs in themselves or loved ones. Steph provides practical steps for seeking help, including utilizing resources like Lifeline, online self-assessments, and consulting with GPs. Emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness on Suicide Prevention Day and R U OK? Day, she also touches on the heightened mental health risks among rural and farming populations. Steph encourages listeners to prepare by saving crisis numbers and familiarizing themselves with mental health tools and resources. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating the emotional ups and downs of farm life.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is general in nature and intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek appropriate guidance for their individual circumstances from a qualified professional.
Resources and links mentioned in this episode:
https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/
https://www.lifeline.org.au/
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support
https://kidshelpline.com.au/
https://www.mumspace.com.au/
My list of psychologists who understand farming
Connect with me:
Sign up for Little Rocks Weekly Reminders - www.stephschmidt.com.au/littlerocks
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephschmidtfarmlifepsych/
https://www.instagram.com/stephschmidt.farmlifepsych
00:00 Recognizing Signs of Mental Health Issues
00:41 Introduction to Farm Life Psych
01:28 Suicide Prevention and Farmer Mental Health
06:29 Understanding Stress and Mental Health
13:18 Self-Assessment and Online Resources
17:56 Seeking Professional Help
23:49 Utilizing Helplines and Support Networks
31:06 Conclusion and Next Steps
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In this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, farm wife, and mum, returns after a break to share insights on balancing farm life, family, and personal well-being. Steph reflects on her busy months, the concept of the four-burner analogy for managing life's priorities, and the importance of self-care. She discusses her approach to not doing it all at once, managing social media, and engaging in physical activity as a means of maintaining mental health. The episode also previews future topics and encourages listeners to connect and share their own experiences.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:43 Meet Steph Schmidt
01:09 Podcast Update and Personal Reflections
02:18 Managing Farm Life and Social Media
08:52 The Four Burner Analogy
13:54 Upcoming Episodes and Topics
19:19 Call for Feedback and Support
21:37 Conclusion and Farewell
Got a burning question? Ask Steph Here
Sign up for Little Rocks Reminders in your inbox - www.stephschmidt.com.au/littlerocks
Connect with me:
Instagram
LinkedIn
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In this episode of Farm Life with Steph Schmidt, she explores the concept of completing the stress cycle and provides practical tips and strategies to do so.
Stress is a natural part of life, but chronic and prolonged stress can have negative effects on our bodies and minds. Steph discusses the seven steps to complete the stress cycle, including physical activity, breathing exercises, positive social interaction, laughter, affection, crying, and creative expression. She encourages listeners to find what works best for them and to be intentional in incorporating these activities into their daily routine. By completing the stress cycle, we can better manage stress and avoid burnout.
Tune in to learn more about how to complete the stress cycle and improve your overall well-being.
Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with others who may find it helpful.
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Farm Life Psych Podcast: Episode 5 - Chronic Stress and your brain
Is your brain constantly predicting a storm on the horizon? Find out how to calm the whirlwind of chronic stress and reclaim a little peace of mind in this week’s episode!
Join me, Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, and mum of three, as I unravel why our brain and mind does what it does during times of stress, and a few ideas of what we can do to manage the never-ending demands of modern farm life. With deep insights and practical strategies, I bring a unique perspective on tackling real-world mental health challenges that every farmer faces.
Reference Points:
Check out Lisa Feldman Barrett and her books, "How emotions are made" and "Seven and a half lessons about the brain"Ask Steph Question: "How do we survive the dry unseasonable conditions that is wide spread across SA at the moment?"Submit your own Ask Steph Question
Remember to Subscribe
Subscribing to the Farm Life Psych Podcast isn’t just a click—it’s an investment in your mental well-being. You'll gain access to a treasure trove of episodes packed with actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and expert interviews specifically tailored to the farming community. Don’t miss out on the wisdom that can make your days just a little bit easier.
Share the Love
Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or family member who might also benefit from it, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review to help spread the word!
Got a burning question or a topic you’d like Steph to tackle? Slide into her DMs on Instagram, drop an email at [email protected] or connect on LinkedIn. Your question could be featured in the next Ask Steph segment!
Listen Now and Take Care of You.
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Finding Balance: Taking a Break on the Farm
In this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmid, a farmer, psychologist, farm wife, and mum, delves into the challenges of managing farm life, especially when it's difficult to take a break. Steph shares her recent experience recovering from COVID-19 while maintaining farm duties and examines the common advice to 'take a break from the farm.' Through anecdotes and personal reflections, she explores how to find moments of relaxation and joy amidst farm work. Steph also addresses a listener's question about the adequacy of her life experience and discusses the importance of combining lived experience with professional qualifications. She underscores the need for mental health professionals to understand the realities of farm life and offers practical advice on how to manage stress without necessarily stepping away from responsibilities. Tune in for insights on balancing farm duties with personal well-being and how to create micro-moments of peace in daily life.
00:00 Introduction to Farm Life Psych
03:11 The Reality of Taking Breaks on the Farm
08:00 Finding Micro Moments of Joy
15:34 The Role of Service Providers
18:24 Ask Steph: Life Experience vs. Qualifications
30:34 Conclusion and Call to Action
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In this episode of Farm Life Psych, host Steph Schmidt, a farmer, psychologist, farm wife, and mum, dives into the challenges and realities of navigating farm life, family, and personal well-being. Steph shares her own experiences of juggling farm work, motherhood, and the impact it has on mental health.
The episode begins with an ask Steph question from a listener who is struggling with her husband's constant focus on the farm and contracting business, leaving her feeling unheard and overwhelmed. Steph offers advice on fostering connection and communication during the challenging times, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, shared values, and finding ways to break out of survival mode.
Steph also reflects on the concept of cultivating compassion and connection in relationships. She shares a personal anecdote from a family trip and highlights the power of compassion in resolving conflicts and finding common ground. She encourages listeners to practice self-compassion and empathy for others, reminding them that everyone is doing their best and it's okay to ask for help.
The episode concludes with a reminder to prioritize self-care, seek support from healthcare professionals, and cultivate compassion in daily interactions. Steph encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences, identify areas where
Don’t forget to like, share, and leave a review to help us spread the word.
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Follow on Instagram: @stephschmidt.farmlifepsych
Connect on LinkedIn: @stephschmidtfarmlifepsych
Visit the Website: www.stephschmidt.com.au
Take care of you, stay connected, and let’s thrive together in farm life!
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Ever feel like you're running on empty while balancing the hustle of farm life, family, and everything in-between? You’re not alone, and it’s time to refill that bin!
Join Steph Schmidt, farmer, psychologist, farm wife, and mum, as she dives into practical self-care strategies tailored for those navigating the unique challenges of farming life. This episode brings to life a masterclass from the 2023 focused on filling your bin and keeping your mental well-being in check during those busy times.
Steph combines her professional insights with real-life farm experiences, offering relatable and actionable advice. Each episode not only provides guidance on mental health but does so in a way that feels like a chat with a friend over a cuppa. Plus, you'll get to practice exercises designed to refresh your spirit and keep you grounded amidst the chaos.
️ Ready to listen and transform your approach to self-care on the farm?
Subscribe now to Farm Life Psych Podcast and never miss an episode.
Share your thoughts and join the conversation by sending a DM to Steph on Instagram.
Subscribe to Little Rocks Email Reminders - Weekly reminders to stay on track, even when it's tough.
Let’s fill those bins and navigate the juggle of farm life together!
Remember to rate, review, and share this podcast with fellow farmers who could use a mental health boost. Your support means the world and helps spread our message far and wide.
Stay tuned, take care, and until next week—keep filling your bin!
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Welcome to the very first episode of Farm Life Psych with your host, Steph Schmidt—farmer, psychologist, and dedicated farm life juggler.
In today's episode, Steph introduces herself, detailing her journey from a city girl in Adelaide to a farmer in South Australia. She shares her experiences navigating the intricate balance between farming, family, and mental health, drawing from her personal life and professional expertise as a psychologist. Steph discusses the unique challenges faced by farmers, the importance of mental well-being, and her vision for this podcast as a resource filled with practical tools and strategies. You'll also hear about the inspiration behind this podcast, including insights from the Change the Picture campaign, which highlights the rewards and struggles within the farming community. Tune in to explore how you can manage the juggle of farm, family, and life, and learn more about what to expect in future episodes.
Grab a cuppa, sit back, and let's dive into the world of Farm Life Psych.
Join the conversation - submit your Ask Steph Question here
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Embrace Life’s Challenges with the Farm Life Psych Podcast
If you're seeking a fresh take on the realities of farm life, where personal well-being intersects with rural resilience, step into "Farm Life Psych."
With Steph Schmidt, a unique blend of farmer, psychologist and fellow farm life juggler, this podcast ploughs through more than just fields. It digs deep into mental wellness, strengths in adversity, and the pursuit of balance amidst life's storms. Steph's genuine experiences and professional insights offer a accessible and relatable approach to handling life's complexities.
Whether you're directly involved in farm life or juggling multiple roles behind the scenes, "Farm Life Psych" helps you navigate the ebb and flow of daily living with practical advice, relatable stories, and effective strategies. This podcast is your companion, ready to inspire and equip with the tools you need to navigate the juggle, challenges and joys of farming life.
Call to Action: Subscribe to "Farm Life Psych" and join a community that values real conversations and actionable insights. Take the first step toward a more grounded and fulfilling journey, even when life gets tough. Get ready to lean into the lessons, embrace the growth, and become part of the conversation. Your path to a more resilient and grounded life begins with a single click. Subscribe now.
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