Family, Farming, & Wellness! With Taylor Bogardus

Host: Val Lavigne (Dairy Gal)
Guest: Taylor Bogardus
Topic: Balancing life on a dairy farm with family, work, and mental health

Introduction and Background:

• Val introduces Taylor as a fellow dairy farmer from central New York.
• Taylor shares about her 80-cow operation specializing in Ayrshires and Holsteins and their recent diversification efforts.
• She discusses her transition from agriculture education to a more active role on the farm.

Balancing Farming and Family:

• Taylor discusses challenges in balancing farm responsibilities with family time, especially with a young daughter.
• Strategies for managing time effectively and prioritizing family activities are shared.

Prioritizing Mental Health:

• Taylor opens up about her journey to prioritize mental health, emphasizing the importance of finding healthy outlets.
• Daily exercise, including strength training and running, is highlighted as a crucial aspect of self-care.

Making Healthy Choices:

• Taylor reflects on her decision to reduce alcohol consumption for mental and physical health benefits.
• The societal pressure around alcohol and challenges to cultural norms are discussed.

Finding Support Systems and Balancing Responsibilities:

• Transitioning back to the farm and adjusting schedules allowed for a more balanced parenting load between spouses.
• Supportive spouses and grandparents play crucial roles in pursuing personal goals and maintaining mental well-being.
• Setting boundaries and focusing on activities that bring joy and fulfillment are essential for preventing burnout.

Finding Fulfillment and Supportive Communities:

• Building relationships with individuals who understand and respect personal values is emphasized.
• Prioritizing self-care and personal interests contributes to overall well-being and satisfaction.
• The importance of surrounding oneself with supportive communities and prioritizing personal fulfillment is highlighted.

Where to Follow Taylor's Farm:

• Follow Locust Spring Farm on Facebook: Locust Spring Farm

Subscribe to the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the Dairy Gal podcast on your favorite podcast platform for more insightful conversations with guests like Taylor Bogardus.

These show notes provide a comprehensive overview of the discussion, covering key points and insights shared by Taylor Bogardus on balancing life on the dairy farm, prioritizing mental health, and finding fulfillment in supportive communities.