Wednesday May 14, 2025

Dairy Diaries: Chase Pagel on Being a Farm Wife, Storytelling & Family

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$

Title: Dairy Diaries: Chase Pagel on Being a Farm Wife, Storytelling & Family

Host: Val Lavigne

@DairyGalVal

www.dairygalval.com

Guest: Chase Pagel

Website:
https://www.dairy-diaries.com/

Facebook:

@Dairy Diaries LLC

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dairydiariesllc/

Rosco's Sweet Treats on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Roscos-Sweet-Treats-Dairy-Diaries/dp/1955047421/ref=sr_1_1?crid=RFOZRKCR9XBV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.kEeipTaeg8x7BnRiXkmIYA.D-umR5A-bS3Rf-JugLcCi4UpO8wVOTVRIdC4RxqrKAA&dib_tag=se&keywords=roscos+sweet+treats&qid=1746622793&sprefix=rosco%27s+sweet+%2Caps%2C379&sr=8-1

Big Farms, Little Farms on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Big-Farms-Little-Dairy-Diaries/dp/0983754713/ref=sr_1_1?crid=81UTU29VFRG5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.O7_JNUpwIBSXowAvS4jTgFn8KpPXK5Fm9H4HADI7Sbhro2phMCZNCF8EhTbP_eNK864kE4RqiKiY5Fdg993QCvcXZG5Zkab6dCzXvu72PGWEkeuuR2a8n17-9-1Qi2gy8kGYYBBi7A5H5TX-TTXisE_0RPqOey8zeDXNk_DxAIl2Ujgz-BA6eLdP1m0urRJfhRVbS7B2wiF8zxNcty-dB2nFOQkK5VgwTuc4nCzZlgQ.LmP-NINk8b4y6iW0gWSjPMyjSqy2pAyMwMmQDKhLP2c&dib_tag=se&keywords=big+farms+little+farms&qid=1746622857&sprefix=big+farms%2Caps%2C202&sr=8-1

Summary

In this episode of the Dairy Hour Podcast, host Val Lavigne speaks with Chase Pagel, a farmer, author, and mother, about her journey from growing up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, to becoming an integral part of her husband's family dairy farm. Chase shares her experiences in various roles on the farm, her transition from nursing to dairy farming, and her passion for writing children's books inspired by her life on the farm. The conversation highlights the importance of women's contributions in agriculture, the challenges and rewards of farm life, and the process of publishing and promoting her books. In this engaging conversation, the speakers discuss the resilience of individuals like Travis Mills, the importance of family farms, and the educational goals behind Chase's books. They explore the significance of authenticity in achieving success and share personal anecdotes through rapid-fire questions. The discussion wraps up with insights on where to find Chase's work and her upcoming projects.

Takeaways

Chase Pagel is a multifaceted individual balancing farm life, motherhood, and authorship.

Women play crucial roles in farming, often wearing many hats.

Chase transitioned from a nursing career to working full-time on a dairy farm.

Establishing a heifer facility was a significant step in their farming journey.

Safety compliance became a key focus for Chase in her role on the farm.

Chase's journey into authorship was inspired by her experiences with farm animals.

The publishing process involves extensive research and planning.

Marketing for her books is primarily driven by Chase's own efforts.

Community engagement is vital for promoting her children's books.

Chase's story exemplifies unexpected career paths and personal growth. Travis Mills is an inspirational figure who uses humor to connect with others.

Family farms come in various shapes and sizes, and all are important.

Chase aims to educate the public about the diversity of family farms.

Books can serve as a medium to share family stories and educate others.

Authenticity is crucial for success as an author.

It's important to embrace one's unique story and experiences.

The future of farming is diverse and evolving.

Chase's books include QR codes for further engagement with readers.

Personal anecdotes can enhance the relatability of educational content.

The journey of being an author is intertwined with personal growth.

Sound Bites

"You are doing the darn things!"

"I had thought about it for years."

"You either do it or don't do it."

"I am a horrible speller."

"I never would have thought it."

"Just do it and get it over with."

"A farm is not just a red barn anymore."

"We need all types of farms, big or small."

"Just being me has gotten me pretty far."

"Authenticity is so important."

Chapters