The Dairy Hour Podcast

From City Girl to Farm Babe: Advocate Michelle Miller!

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
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The Farm Cruise http://www.farmcruise.com use Code DAIRYGALVAL to save $50!
Title:  From City Girl to Farm Babe: Advocate Michelle Miller!
Host: Val Lavigne @DairyGalValwww.dairygalval.com
Guest: Michelle Miller “The Farm Babe”Speaker, Author, Content Creator, ComedianCo-Founder of the “Farm Cruise” www.farmcruise.comHost of the “HERD it here” PUNcastwww.thefarmbabe.comwww.facebook.com/iowafarmbabeOther social networks: @thefarmbabe
 
SummaryIn this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne interviews Michelle Miller, known as the Farm Babe, who shares her unique journey from a city girl to a passionate advocate for agriculture. Michelle discusses her childhood in Wisconsin, her unexpected transition to farming in Iowa, and her mission to combat misinformation in the agricultural sector. She highlights the importance of sharing accurate information about farming practices and the role of social media in her advocacy work. The conversation also touches on her future plans, including an innovative floating farm conference. In this engaging conversation, Michelle shares her experiences, her adventures in the agricultural world, and her passion for supporting farmers. She discusses her upcoming farm cruise, the journey of converting her sprinter van into a mobile home, and the importance of sharing personal stories to inspire others. She emphasizes the need for advocacy in agriculture, the significance of mental health, and the power of one's voice in making a difference. The conversation also touches on travel experiences, overcoming challenges, and the fun side of life through rapid-fire questions.
 
TakeawaysMichelle Miller is known as the Farm Babe, an advocate for agriculture.She transitioned from a city lifestyle to farming after meeting a farmer in Florida.Michelle's journey highlights the importance of combating misinformation in agriculture.She emphasizes the need for farmers to share their stories to educate consumers.The Farm Babe brand grew from a response to misinformation from food bloggers (particularly The Food Babe).Michelle's blog started as a hobby and evolved into a full-time business.She has spoken in 43 states and aims to reach all 50.Michelle's experiences illustrate the urban-rural divide in understanding agriculture.She is planning a floating farm conference to engage with the agricultural community.Michelle continues to advocate for farmers and educate consumers through social media. The farm cruise offers a unique experience for families.A sprinter van can serve as a mobile home and office.Sharing personal stories can inspire and connect people.Farmers need support to thrive in a challenging environment.Mental health awareness is crucial for everyone.Traveling opens up new perspectives on agriculture.Michelle's hidden talent is her Eric Cartman impression.Food choices can be challenging while traveling.Everyone has struggles, and it's important to share them.
Sound Bites"I just wanted to help clear the air.""I wanted to take it to the next level.""I still travel to speak and advocate.""I am now that mom.""Dairy Gal Val gets you $50 off of the Farm Cruise.""I hope it inspires other people.""I sound exactly like Eric Cartman.""I want to play golf in Japan."
Chapters00:00Introduction to the Farm Babe02:47From City Life to Farming Life06:09The Journey of Becoming the Farm Babe09:10Misinformation in Agriculture and Advocacy12:01The Growth of the Farm Babe Brand15:12Life After Farming and New Ventures17:57Future Plans and Community Engagement28:22Exciting Adventures: Farm Cruise Plans29:47The Journey of a Sprinter Van32:02The Power of Sharing Your Story33:55Supporting Farmers and Agricultural Policies34:24Rapid Fire Fun: Getting to Know Michelle41:21Travel Tales: Exploring South Africa45:27Overcoming Challenges and Mental Health Awareness49:21Empowerment Through Voice and Advocacy

Mini Mindset: 5 Quick Ways to Re-charge Yourself!

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Title: Mini Mindset: 5 Quick Ways to Re-charge Yourself!
Host: Val Lavigne @DairyGalVal
www.dairygalval.com
 
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Summary
In this episode of the Dairy Hour Podcast, host Val Lavigne shares her experiences with homeschooling and offers practical tips for recharging one's body and mind amidst a busy lifestyle. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and provides five quick strategies to help listeners rejuvenate, including stretching, listening to music, staying hydrated, practicing mindfulness, and reconnecting with friends.
 
Takeaways
-Homeschooling can be rewarding despite its challenges.
-Taking time to recharge is essential for well-being.
-Stretching and moving your body can clear your mind.
-Listening to music or podcasts can boost your mood.
-Staying hydrated significantly impacts your health.
-Mindful breathing helps reduce anxiety.
-Reconnecting with friends can provide emotional support.
-Self-care is crucial for busy individuals.
-Quick and easy tips can make a big difference.
-Taking care of yourself enables you to help others.

Balancing Motherhood and Farming! With Jaime Mowry

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
 
Title: Balancing Motherhood and Farming! With Jaime Mowry
Host: Val Lavigne
Guest: Jaime Mowry
 
SummaryIn this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne speaks with Jaime Mowry, a third-generation dairy farmer, about her journey in agriculture, the challenges of balancing motherhood with farm responsibilities, and the importance of support systems in the farming community. Jaime shares her experiences growing up on the farm, her education at Cornell University, and the transitions she faced upon returning to the family business. The conversation highlights the evolving roles of women in agriculture, the significance of establishing work-life boundaries, and the joys and struggles of raising a family while managing a farm. 
TakeawaysJaime is a third-generation dairy farmer from Western New York. She initially didn't want to be involved in farming but found her passion later.Her education at Cornell University played a significant role in her career.Jaime emphasizes the importance of gaining experience on different farms. She faced challenges transitioning back to the family farm after college.Motherhood changed her perspective on work and priorities.Establishing boundaries at work has been crucial for her family life.Support from employees has been vital in managing farm responsibilities.Jaime believes in the importance of being unapologetically oneself. She cherishes the memories of growing up on the farm and hopes to involve her son in farming.
Chapters00:00Introduction to Dairy Farming Heritage02:50Growing Up on the Farm06:09Education and Career Path09:00Transitioning Back to the Family Farm11:54Changes in Farm Management15:05Personal Life and Family Dynamics17:54Navigating Motherhood and Farming20:49Establishing Work-Life Balance24:14Support Systems in Farming26:59Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

From Farm to Nutrition: Kourtney Talkington on Empowering Women, Mindful Eating, and Agriculture

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
 
Title: From Farm to Nutrition: Kourtney Talkington on Empowering Women, Mindful Eating, and Agriculture
Host: Val Lavigne
Guest: Kourtney Talkington
      Find her @Kourtney.Talkington on Instagram
Summary:
 
In this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne speaks with Kourtney Talkington, a fifth-generation farmer and mindful eating advocate from Kansas. They discuss Kourtney's upbringing on a farm, her journey through eating disorders, her education in nutrition, and her return to agriculture. Kourtney shares her passion for helping others reclaim their joy around food and introduces her upcoming virtual group program aimed at empowering women during the holiday season. The conversation also touches on the importance of community in agriculture and personal growth through life's unexpected challenges.
takeaways
Kourtney is a fifth-generation farmer involved in cow-calf pairs and crop farming.
Growing up on the farm shaped Kourtney's personality and love for animals.
Kourtney struggled with an eating disorder during high school, which influenced her career path.
She pursued a dual degree in nutrition and health, driven by personal experiences.
Kourtney's passion is to help others connect with the joy of food beyond nutritional value.
She emphasizes the importance of community support in agriculture and personal growth.
Kourtney's upcoming program aims to empower women to navigate food-related challenges during the holidays.
She believes in being kind to oneself and the importance of self-acceptance.
The conversation highlights the significance of sharing personal stories in agriculture.
Kourtney's journey reflects the balance between personal aspirations and family legacy.
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Kourtney Talkington and Her Background
02:49Growing Up on the Farm: A Personal Journey
05:54Navigating Eating Disorders and Their Impact
08:54Education and Career Path in Nutrition
11:50Returning to Agriculture and Family Legacy
15:05The Importance of Community in Agriculture
17:54Launching a Virtual Group Program for Women
21:10Fun Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

Farm First Aid- With Katie Hammock, RN

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
 
Title: Farm First Aid- With Katie Hammock, RN
Host: Val Lavigne
Guest: Katie Hammock, RN
      Find her @TheDairyWife on Instagram
Episode First Aid Kit link:  https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1Y2Y5EC8BXGFF?ref_=wl_share
Summary:
In this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne speaks with Katie Hammock, an emergency department nurse and dairy farmer, about the importance of farm safety and emergency preparedness. They discuss essential first aid items that every farm should have, share real-life experiences related to farm accidents, and emphasize the need for proper training and equipment to handle emergencies. The conversation also touches on lighthearted moments and personal insights, making it a well-rounded discussion on the intersection of agriculture and emergency medicine.
takeaways
Farm safety is crucial for preventing accidents.
Emergency preparedness can save lives in rural areas.
A tourniquet is essential for controlling severe bleeding.
Quick clot gauze can significantly improve outcomes in emergencies.
Having a whistle can help call for help when needed.
It's important to have a list of emergency contacts readily available.
Understanding the 911 address for farms is vital for emergencies.
Fire extinguishers should be easily accessible on farms.
Everything in life is a season, and challenges will pass.
Ice cream is a beloved comfort food for many, including farmers.
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Farm Safety and Emergency Medicine
11:46Essential First Aid Items for Farms
23:58Real-Life Experiences and Importance of Preparedness
36:00Lighthearted Moments and Personal Insights

Empowering Women: Monica Massey's Journey from Dairy to Consulting

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
AND
Dairy Girl Network- The Forward TogetHER Conference!  Join me and many other amazing women in dairy at the conference this November, http://www.dairygirlnetwork.com for more information!
 
Title: Empowering Women: Monica Massey's Journey from Dairy to Consulting
Guest: Monica Massey (@MonicaMassey www.monicainc.com)
Host: Val Lavigne ( @dairygalval www.dairygalval.com )
 
Episode Description:In this episode of The Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne sits down with motivational speaker and consultant Monica Massey to explore her inspiring career path. From a traditional upbringing in the Catskill Mountains to a thriving career in the dairy industry, Monica shares how she pivoted to consulting and public speaking, emphasizing the importance of women’s empowerment in the workplace. The conversation covers work-life balance, the evolving definitions of success, and the critical role of mentorship and advocacy for women in today’s post-COVID professional landscape. Monica’s journey and her motto of “You only live once” will inspire you to pursue your dreams and live life to the fullest.
Episode Takeaways:
Monica Massey is a motivational speaker and consultant in the medical food space.
She advocates for women’s empowerment in her engagements.
Her traditional upbringing shaped her career in the dairy industry and beyond.
Monica emphasizes work-life balance and the importance of setting personal boundaries.
Success for her now includes mentoring and giving back to the community.
Women today are more vocal about demanding work-life balance from employers.
She believes in the power of self-advocacy and mentorship among women.
Monica encourages everyone to live fully and pursue their dreams.
Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Monica Massey01:56 – Monica’s Journey from Childhood to Career05:56 – Career Development in the Dairy Industry11:51 – Transitioning to Consulting and Public Speaking17:56 – Work-Life Balance and Setting Boundaries24:00 – Evolving Definitions of Success30:08 – Empowering Women in the Workplace35:58 – Fun Rapid-Fire Questions42:00 – Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

The Life of Farm Animal Vet- Megan Schrupp!

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum
shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
 
AND
 
Dairy Girl Network- The Forward TogetHER Conference!  Join me and many other amazing women in dairy at the conference this November, http://www.dairygirlnetwork.com for more information!
 
 
Episode Title: The Life of Farm Animal Vet- Megan Schrupp!
 
Host: Val Lavigne-- www.dairygalval.com
 
Guest: Megan Schrupp, DVM (NexGen Dairy) (Find her on Facebook and Instagram)
 
In this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne sits down with Megan Schrupp, a third-generation dairy farmer and veterinarian from Minnesota. Megan shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from a career in veterinary medicine to running her family’s dairy farm. Along the way, she embarked on new ventures like opening a farm market and starting beekeeping, adding fresh dimensions to her family’s legacy.
Megan emphasizes the importance of family support throughout the transition and the unique challenges and rewards of being a dairy farmer. She also shares how creativity and continuous learning have been key to her success, helping her adapt to challenges and explore exciting new opportunities. Tune in to hear Megan’s insights on maintaining a positive mindset, focusing on doing your best, and finding fulfillment in farming.
Key Takeaways:
Transitioning from veterinary practice to managing a family dairy farm requires careful planning and open communication among family members.
Diversifying through new ventures, like a farm market and beekeeping, can provide additional income streams and opportunities to share the farm’s story with the public.
Dairy farming is a devotional practice, requiring dedication to animal care and food production. It's essential to focus on doing your best rather than worrying about the outcome.
Creativity and continuous learning are vital to adapting in the agriculture industry, helping farmers overcome challenges and seize new opportunities.
Family support and maintaining a positive attitude are crucial for the long-term success of a family dairy farm.
Episode Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction and Background02:00 - Taking Over the Family Dairy Farm03:21 - Starting New Ventures: Farm Market and Beekeeping07:41 - From Meteorology to Veterinary Practice09:34 - Transitioning Back to the Farm12:53 - The Importance of Family Support in Farm Transitions16:36 - Diversifying the Farm: Solar Power and Other Projects21:22 - The Role of Creativity and Continuous Learning in Farming25:06 - Favorite Hobbies: Working with Cows and Skiing32:48 - Embracing the Journey and Focusing on Doing Your Best35:33 - The Devotional Practice of Farming

Mini Mindset: Chaos and Curriculums- Starting the Journey!

This episode is brought to you by: Dairy Girl Network- The Forward TogetHER Conference!  Join me and many other amazing women in dairy at the conference this November, www.dairygirlnetwork.com for more information!
 
In this episode of the Dairy Hour Podcast, host Val Lavigne opens up about her personal journey into homeschooling her three children, exploring the motivations that led her to this decision. She highlights the desire for a personalized education that fits her family’s needs, emphasizing the flexibility and hands-on learning that homeschooling offers. Val also discusses the unique challenges she’s faced, from curriculum choices to maintaining a support system, and shares how regular evaluations help keep their homeschooling journey on track. Throughout the conversation, she reinforces that this decision isn’t permanent, but rather a chapter in their family’s education journey. With insight into both the rewarding and difficult moments, Val offers valuable takeaways for parents considering a similar path.
 
Key takeaways include the importance of personalized learning, flexibility in scheduling, and hands-on experiences, as well as the crucial role of family and friends in supporting homeschooling efforts. Val also stresses the importance of finding a curriculum that aligns with family values and addressing specific educational needs, while acknowledging that challenges are part of the process.

Courage, Cooking, and Advocacy! With Carrie Mess

This episode is brought to you by: The Barnyard Language Podcast @Barnyardlanguage !  Stop by and tell them Val sent you! 
 
Also brought to you by Dairy Girl Network- The Forward TogetHER Conference!  Join me and many other amazing women in dairy at the conference this November, www.dairygirlnetwork.com for more information!
 
Carrie Mess:  Find her at dairycarrie.com or Dairy Carrie on socials!
 
In this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne sits down with Carrie Mess, widely known as Dairy Carrie, to explore her remarkable journey from city life to becoming a prominent voice in the dairy industry. Carrie shares her path to dairy farming and the creation of her popular blog, Dairy Carrie, where she connects with others through candid storytelling and advocacy. The conversation delves into Carrie's personal battles with health issues, including her diagnosis of Chiari malformation and hormone imbalances, which led her to step back from full-time farming. She opens up about the physical and emotional toll of her health journey, highlighting the critical need to listen to your body and advocate for yourself in medical situations. Carrie’s experiences underscore the importance of finding doctors who support and guide you through complex health challenges. Beyond farming and advocacy, Carrie reveals her passion for cooking and exploring new cuisines, which serve as creative outlets that bring her joy and fulfillment. This episode is a powerful reminder to prioritize self-care, seek medical help when needed, and embrace creative pursuits that enrich life beyond the farm.

Building Community in Agriculture! Laura Daniels and Dairy Girl Network

This episode is brought to you by: The Barnyard Language Podcast @Barnyardlanguage !  Stop by and tell them Val sent you!
Guest information: Laura Daniels
Find her on her website www.Dairygirlnetwork.com or Instagram/Facebook @dairygirlnetwork
Episode Summary: In this episode, Val Lavigne sits down with Laura Daniels, the inspiring founder of Dairy Girl Network, to discuss her incredible journey in the dairy industry. Laura shares her story of growing up on a dairy farm, falling in love with cows at a young age, and eventually buying her own dairy farm. As a seasoned dairy cattle nutritionist, Laura transitioned to consulting and created Dairy Girl Network to support and connect women in agriculture. What started as a small networking event has grown into a nationwide organization offering conferences and virtual programs.
The conversation highlights the importance of community support in the dairy industry, particularly for women who face unique challenges in agriculture. Laura opens up about overcoming difficult times, the power of vulnerability, and the need for mental health support within the farming community. The episode wraps up with some light-hearted rapid-fire questions, giving listeners a glimpse into Laura’s personality and passions.
Key Takeaways:
Dairy Girl Network’s Mission: Founded to support and connect women in the dairy industry, the organization offers valuable educational and networking opportunities, meeting members where they are in their journey.
Importance of Networking: Laura emphasizes the significance of networking and asking for help for both personal and professional growth, especially in an industry as challenging as agriculture.
10th Anniversary Milestone: As Dairy Girl Network celebrates a decade of empowering women, it continues to help dairy women achieve their goals through community support and collaboration.
Challenges for Women in Agriculture: Laura discusses the unique challenges faced by women in the industry, stressing the need for resilience, determination, and mutual support.
Vulnerability and Mental Health: The episode underscores the importance of vulnerability in building connections and the need for mental health resources tailored to the farming community.
Confident Kindness: Laura shares her mantra of "confident kindness," a guiding principle that helps women navigate the demands of the dairy industry while staying true to themselves.
Sound Bites:
"I earned the title that will always be the one I'm happiest to have had, and that is Dairy Farmer."
"If I can do anything and Dairy Girl Network can do anything to reduce the friction for all of those amazing women achieving their dreams or moving towards their goals, that's the good work of the world that I get to contribute to."
"We have to be willing to ask for help, and there's nobody easier to ask than people who are like us, equally determined, and have actual experience."
"She was just the best girl ever, and she lived to be like 16. It was just wonderful."
"People wonder why we go to extremes as dairy people or 4-H moms. We do that because we know how meaningful it was when someone did that for us."
"It's our job as moms to mortify our children at regular intervals."
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction and Background
02:17 - Becoming a Dairy Farmer
05:30 - The Creation of Dairy Girl Network
08:14 - The Importance of Networking and Asking for Help
18:11 - Expanding Dairy Girl Network Nationwide
25:02 - The Love for Cows and the Dairy Industry
30:12 - The Power of Community Support
35:03 - Overcoming Challenges: A Personal Journey
38:56 - The Importance of Vulnerability and Mental Health Support
45:11 - Confident Kindness: Navigating the Challenges of Agriculture
Tune in to this insightful conversation with Laura Daniels as she shares her passion for dairy farming, the creation of Dairy Girl Network, and the importance of building a supportive community for women in agriculture.