The Dairy Hour Podcast
Welcome to the Dairy Hour Podcast, where rural charm meets personal growth! Join us as we milk every moment for wisdom, self-improvement, and mental wellness. I’m your host, Val Lavigne, a rural dairy farming mom with a passion for filling hearts while never forgetting to fill my own cup. Get ready for insightful conversations, empowering tips, and a splash of fun and laughs off course! Let’s cultivate growth, nourish our minds, and embrace the journey together. This is the Dairy Hour Podcast – where every episode is a breath of fresh air and the inspiration you need to be your best self! If you love this podcast, please leave a review and share with a friend! To be considered as a guest on the show, please email at Dairygalval@icloud.com or inquire on www.dairygalval.com
Episodes
Wednesday May 15, 2024
Wednesday May 15, 2024
Summary:
In this conversation, Val Lavigne and Abbey Copenhaver discuss nutrition, health, and balancing multiple roles. Abbey shares her background in dairy farming and her journey to becoming a registered dietitian. They also talk about her experience as a triathlete and the importance of involving kids in food preparation. Abbey provides tips for making healthy and fun meals for kids, including incorporating yogurt into various dishes. They discuss strategies for getting picky eaters to try new foods and navigating different dietary needs within the family. Abbey discusses the importance of creating a positive eating environment for children and shares tips for moms trying to navigate their way through it. She emphasizes the need to focus on what foods can be eaten rather than what foods are restricted, and to avoid creating negative associations with food. Abbey also highlights the role modeling aspect of parenting and the importance of involving others in teaching children about food. She shares her favorite book, her preference for chocolate milk, and her love for dogs. Abbey reflects on the challenges she has overcome, including starting her own business, and shares inspirational quotes that drive her.
Keywords: nutrition, health, dairy farming, registered dietitian, triathlon, food preparation, kids, picky eaters, dietary needs, positive eating environment, children, moms, food restrictions, role modeling, involving others, teaching, favorite book, chocolate milk, dogs, starting a business, inspirational quotes
Takeaways
Abbey's background in dairy farming and her journey to becoming a registered dietitian
The importance of involving kids in food preparation and making healthy and fun meals
Strategies for getting picky eaters to try new foods
Navigating different dietary needs within the family Create a positive eating environment for children by focusing on what foods can be eaten rather than what foods are restricted.
Avoid creating negative associations with food by not having restricted foods in the house.
Be conscious of the way you view food and how you communicate that to your children.
Involve others in teaching children about food and cooking to create a community contribution.
Starting your own business can be a challenge, but with support and determination, it can lead to growth and success.
Sound Bites
"I do have a degree in animal science, but then I went on to finish my requirements for dietetics, which, you know, I have my credentials as a registered dietitian."
"I think the big thing and I'm sure within other industries, it's a little different, but in the dairy industry, a lot of people just bring their kids with them."
"Balancing a career, being a dietician, being a mom, being part-time dairy farmer."
"It's really nice when it's like the kid knows that they can go get themselves a snack out of the fridge and they can have that."
"Everything you do is sending a message to them."
"Incorporating other coping mechanisms that you're teaching them so that, you know, you're balancing it out a little bit."
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Background
09:05Involving Kids in Food Preparation
13:08Balancing Multiple Roles
22:53Getting Picky Eaters to Try New Foods
29:51Navigating Different Dietary Needs Within the Family
32:37Creating a Positive Eating Environment
36:45Balancing Coping Mechanisms
48:03Challenges and Growth of Starting a Business
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Wednesday May 08, 2024
In this conversation, Val Lavigne interviews Krysta Paffrath, an entrepreneur and founder of the Rural Podcast Network. They discuss Krysta's journey as an entrepreneur, the challenges of maintaining a positive mindset, and strategies for self-balance and motivation. Krysta emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, practicing yoga and meditation, and having a morning routine. She also highlights the challenges of being a rural entrepreneur, such as finding local connections and feeling isolated. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the mindset and strategies of an entrepreneur. In this conversation, Val and Krysta discuss the challenges and joys of rural entrepreneurship. They touch on topics such as communication in marriage, gender stereotypes in the workplace, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. Krysta shares advice for women looking to pursue entrepreneurship in rural areas, emphasizing the need for clear goals, time management, and flexibility. She also encourages investing in oneself and leaving a legacy of kindness. The conversation ends with some fun rapid-fire questions.
Keywords: entrepreneurship, mindset, self-balance, motivation, rural entrepreneur, self-awareness, yoga, meditation, morning routine, rural entrepreneurship, communication, marriage, gender stereotypes, positive mindset, advice, time management, flexibility, investing in oneself, kindness, legacy
Takeaways
Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial for entrepreneurs, and self-awareness is key to achieving this.
Practicing yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and provide mental clarity.
Having a morning routine can set the tone for a productive day.
Being a rural entrepreneur can present challenges in finding local connections and feeling isolated.
Self-care and prioritizing mental health are essential for long-term success as an entrepreneur. Clear communication is important in marriage, especially when it comes to important events and responsibilities.
Gender stereotypes can still exist in certain industries, but entrepreneurship allows for more freedom in choosing who to work with.
Having a positive mindset is crucial for maintaining productivity and prioritizing self-care.
Women in rural entrepreneurship should have clear goals, manage their time effectively, and be open to the unexpected.
Investing in oneself through coaching, courses, and resources is essential for personal and professional growth.
Leaving a legacy of kindness and promoting kindness in others is a meaningful goal to strive for.
The quote 'If not you, then who?' serves as a reminder to embrace one's unique power and purpose.
Connect with Krysta on social media and check out her podcast, 'Women Going Big', and the Rural Podcast Network.
Sound Bites
"That love for entrepreneurism really stuck around."
"I can make a difference in these small businesses."
"Sharing stories of women going big."
"How can you go without looking at the calendar?"
"I work with people that align with my values"
"You get to work with people you want. And if you don't vibe with somebody, you can fire them."
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Background
02:23The Journey of an Entrepreneur
06:43Launching the Rural Podcast Network
09:03Maintaining a Positive Mindset
12:23Challenges of Being a Rural Entrepreneur
14:29Strategies for Self-Balance and Motivation
25:11Navigating Communication in Marriage
26:03Challenging Gender Stereotypes in Entrepreneurship
28:14Maintaining a Positive Mindset in Rural Entrepreneurship
29:05Advice for Women in Rural Entrepreneurship
35:28Investing in Oneself for Personal and Professional Growth
41:29Leaving a Legacy of Kindness
43:10Embracing Your Unique Power and Purpose
44:27Connect with Krysta and Check Out Her Podcasts
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Episode Summary: In this solo episode, Val shares her top time management hacks for juggling multiple responsibilities effectively. From managing farm tasks to family obligations, these strategies can help listeners carve out time for themselves and boost productivity.
Key Points:
Write It Down: Val emphasizes the importance of making lists to remember tasks. Prioritizing tasks based on urgency ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
Time Blocking: Allocate specific time slots for different tasks to maintain focus and address urgent matters promptly.
Take Breaks: Val advocates for regular breaks to maintain mental clarity and productivity. Incorporating outdoor activities or varying tasks prevents monotony.
Self-Discipline: Stay committed to your schedule and task list. Minimize distractions, such as excessive phone scrolling, to maximize efficiency.
Review and Adjust: Regularly reassess priorities to stay accountable and ensure tasks remain relevant. Delegating when necessary helps manage workload effectively.
Closing Remarks: Val acknowledges that nobody's perfect but stresses the effectiveness of these time management strategies in boosting productivity. By implementing these hacks, listeners can strive for a more productive week ahead.
Stay tuned for more insights and tips on next week's episode!
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Introduction:
Welcome to "The Dairy Hour Podcast," where rural charm meets personal growth.
Hosted by Val Lavigne, a rural dairy farming mom dedicated to wisdom, self-improvement, and mental wellness.
Expect insightful conversations, empowering tips, and a splash of fun and laughter.
Join the journey of growth and nourishment together in every episode.
Episode Highlights:
Val introduces special guest Tara Vander Dussen, known as the New Mexico Milkmaid on social media and spouse of a previous podcast guest. (@taravanderdussen and @discoveragpodcast)
Tara shares her journey into homeschooling, a decision that evolved over time, influenced by her busy lifestyle, family dynamics, and her youngest daughter's medical condition.
Val and Tara discuss the structure of their homeschooling schedule, highlighting the collaboration between Tara and her mother, who tutors the children two days a week.
Tara describes the typical day in the life of homeschooling, including morning sessions focused on math and language arts, outdoor breaks, and afternoon sessions covering extracurricular subjects like history and science.
The importance of incorporating extracurricular activities like piano lessons into the homeschooling routine is emphasized.
Tara shares her experience with selecting curriculum with the help of Jessica Anderson from Ranch School, adapting to a four-day-a-week schedule, and utilizing Fridays as a catch-up or wrap-up day.
Val and Tara discuss the challenges of balancing homeschooling with work responsibilities, highlighting the need for family support and flexibility in scheduling.
Homeschooling is not just about education but also about fostering a supportive family environment where everyone's needs and aspirations are considered.
Discussion about the transition to homeschooling and Daniel's support.
Recognition of the challenges and benefits of homeschooling, including increased family time and flexibility.
Resource Mentioned:
Ranch School by Jessica Anderson (Social media handle: @ranchschool)
Benefits of Homeschooling:
Reduced time spent commuting to school, leading to more family interaction.
Integration of learning into daily life, promoting a holistic approach to education.
Opportunity for children to participate in farm activities and learn from hands-on experiences.
Challenges and Adjustments:
Initial struggles with time management and establishing boundaries for schoolwork.
Differences in learning styles and age-appropriate expectations for schooling.
Acknowledgment of the learning curve for both parents and children.
Screen Time and Outdoor Activities:
Concerns about excessive screen time in traditional schooling environments.
Emphasis on the importance of outdoor play and physical activity for children's development.
Comparison of current school practices to past experiences and the impact on children's behavior.
Personal Sacrifices and Adaptations:
Decision to prioritize homeschooling despite adjustments to personal and professional schedules.
Reflection on the need for balance and the reality behind social media portrayals.
Transition to year-round schooling to accommodate family travel and interests.
Socialization and Homeschooling:
Discussion of socialization opportunities within homeschooling communities.
Recognition of alternative ways children develop social skills through family interactions, extracurricular activities, and travel experiences.
Personal anecdote highlighting the adaptability and social competence of homeschooled children.
Navigating the Homeschooling Journey
Emphasis on the importance of flexibility and individualized approaches to education.
Reminder that homeschooling can lead to well-adapted and socially competent children.
Acknowledgment of diverse experiences and perspectives within the homeschooling community.
Challenges of Homeschooling:
Tara shares her experience of feeling a contrast between her children's behavior in public versus at home.
Discussion highlights the importance of maintaining perspective as a parent and focusing on positive behavior outside the home.
Advice for Prospective Homeschooling Parents:
Tara offers advice for parents considering homeschooling, emphasizing the importance of thorough exploration and consideration of options.
Key points include researching curriculum options, seeking support from homeschooling communities, and being realistic about commitments.
Rewards of Homeschooling:
Tara reflects on the rewarding moments of homeschooling, particularly the quality time spent with her children and the sense of closeness it fosters.
Discussion underscores the value of shared experiences and the fulfillment found in seeing children grasp new concepts and skills.
Future Goals and Aspirations for Homeschooling:
Tara shares her hopes for diversifying the homeschooling experience by incorporating new interests and activities.
Emphasis is placed on flexibility and adapting the homeschooling approach to suit the evolving needs and interests of the children.
Audience Question and Closing Remarks:
Tara answers a thought-provoking question posed by a previous guest about the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
The episode concludes with Tara sharing a favorite quote and inviting listeners to connect with her on social media. (@taravanderdussen and @discoveragpodcast)
Conclusion:
Host expresses gratitude to Tara for sharing her insights and experiences on homeschooling.
Listeners are encouraged to engage with the podcast and continue exploring the journey of homeschooling.
Outro:
Val thanks listeners for tuning in and invites them to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast.
Closing remarks express anticipation for future episodes and encourage listeners to stay connected.
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
Host: Val Lavigne
For More Info: www.dairygalval.com
Or on Social Media @Dairy Gal Val
Introduction:
Val introduces the episode, highlighting the focus on her personal fitness journey.
Expresses the intent to share real and raw aspects to resonate with listeners facing similar challenges.
Emphasizes the importance of consistency and having a supportive network.
Hurdle 1: Time Management
Val acknowledges the scarcity of time, especially for individuals juggling multiple roles like being a mom, farmer, etc.
Stresses the necessity of scheduling gym time as a priority amidst a busy schedule.
Shares personal experience and the productivity boost gained from consistent workouts.
Mentions childcare options at her gym and encourages listeners to find creative solutions to accommodate exercise routines.
Hurdle 2: Physical Limitations and Listening to One's Body
Reflects on her body's response to intense workouts after a year-long fitness journey.
Advocates for finding exercise routines that match one's personality and preferences.
Advises on the importance of varying workouts, including recovery days and stretching.
Shares personal experience with diastasis recti and the impact on her fitness journey.
Encourages listeners to advocate for themselves and seek professional advice when facing physical challenges.
Importance of Nutrition and Supplements
Highlights the significance of protein intake for muscle repair and glycogen replacement.
Recommends specific supplements like collagen, creatine, and colostrum based on personal experience and gym recommendations.
Shares the benefits observed from incorporating colostrum into her routine, promoting a specific brand with a discount code.
Hurdle 3: Traveling to the Gym
Discusses the inconvenience of commuting to the gym, particularly living in a small town without nearby fitness facilities.
Reframes commuting time as an opportunity for personal reflection and relaxation.
Shares strategies for optimizing gym trips by combining them with other errands.
Conclusion:
Summarizes the three main hurdles faced in her fitness journey: time management, physical limitations, and gym commuting.
Encourages listeners to persist in their fitness endeavors, emphasizing the mental and physical benefits of the journey.
Expresses hope that the episode provided helpful tips and inspiration for listeners.
Teases upcoming episodes on nutrition and future guests.
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Introduction:
Welcome back, everyone! It's been a few weeks since we've connected, and I've missed our chats. I've been taking some time for reflection and healing from a persistent ear infection. But during this hiatus, I've been busy planning the next phase of our podcast journey.
Transition to Niche Focus:
I've thoroughly enjoyed our podcasting journey so far, but now it's time to delve deeper. I want to focus on the nitty-gritty aspects of life as a mom, particularly for those of us who feel like we're constantly juggling in the circus.
Personal Introduction:
As a rural mom of three, life is nothing short of chaotic. But amidst the chaos, I've found moments of clarity and purpose. I'm 35, happily married to a hardworking blue-collar guy, and deeply involved in our family's dairy farm.
Journey to Self-Improvement:
Over the past year and a half, I've made a conscious effort to become the best version of myself. It's a journey I want to share with all of you. I'll be bringing on guests who can inspire and guide you on your own paths to self-discovery and improvement.
Multifaceted Lifestyle:
Despite being labeled a "stay-at-home mom," I wear many hats. From managing our dairy farm to caring for horses and goats, my days are filled with diverse responsibilities. I'm also a milk inspector and dabble in the food truck business.
Emphasis on Self-Care:
Through social media and this podcast, I aim to advocate for the importance of self-care. It's essential to prioritize our well-being, whether we're mothers nurturing our families or farmers tending to our animals.
Fitness Journey:
Recently, I've developed a passion for fitness and pushing my physical limits. At 35, I'm discovering newfound strength and resilience, surpassing even my high school self. I'm excited to share this journey with you and explore ways to elevate our health and vitality together.
Closing Thoughts:
As we embark on this journey together, I invite you to join me in embracing the challenges and triumphs of rural motherhood. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes featuring inspiring guests and valuable insights. If you resonate with our mission, don't hesitate to share this podcast with others who could benefit from prioritizing self-care and personal growth. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to reconnecting with you next week!
Outro:
Until next time, remember to prioritize self-care and nurture your well-being. Together, we can navigate the chaos of life and emerge stronger, wiser, and more fulfilled. Take care, and see you soon!
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Introduction:
Host: Val Lavigne (Dairy Gal Val)
Guest: Marilyn Hershey
Guest Background:
Marilyn and her husband Dwayne operate a dairy farm in Southeast Pennsylvania, milking about 850-900 cows.
Both Marilyn and Dwayne come from families with deep ties to farming, reflecting a multigenerational agricultural heritage.
Dwayne's parents started the current farm in the mid-60s, with Marilyn and Dwayne eventually taking over the operation.
Marilyn's father, still active at nearly 96 years old, remains involved in the farm's operations.
Challenges in Dairy Leadership:
Marilyn discusses the challenges of being a woman in the traditionally male-dominated field of agriculture.
Despite initially being the only woman among male colleagues, Marilyn felt respected and valued for her opinions.
Over time, the composition of the National Dairy Board has become more balanced in terms of gender representation.
Balancing Responsibilities:
Marilyn talks about balancing her farm responsibilities with her role as chair of Dairy Management Inc. (DMI).
With support from her husband Dwayne and a dedicated team on the farm, Marilyn has been able to fulfill her leadership responsibilities effectively.
Memorable Achievements:
Marilyn highlights her participation in international initiatives through DMI, such as engaging with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome.
She emphasizes the importance of building relationships and advocating for American agriculture on a global scale.
The Future:
Marilyn shares insights into the future of dairy and the role of checkoff programs.
She discusses the increasing consumption of dairy products in the United States and the importance of ensuring access to nutritious dairy products in schools.
Marilyn reflects on her tenure as Chair of DMI and her passion for promoting school milk programs.
She provides advice for aspiring leaders in agriculture, emphasizing the importance of self-confidence and making a difference in any position.
During the rapid-fire question round, Marilyn reveals her favorite Hershey's candy, her preference between being a morning person or a night owl, and her most interesting travel destination.
The episode concludes with Marilyn's inspirational message, highlighting the significance of faith, relationships, and making others feel respected and heard.
Connect with Marilyn Hershey:
LinkedIn: [Marilyn Hershey]
Stay tuned for the next episode of The Dairy Hour!
Subscribe to the Podcast:
Subscribe to the Dairy Gal podcast on your favorite podcast platform for more insightful conversations with guests like Marilyn Hershey.
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Host: Val Lavigne (Dairy Gal)Guest: Taylor BogardusTopic: 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.
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Welcome to the Dairy Hour Podcast! Subscribe now and never miss an episode filled with insightful interviews, engaging conversations, and valuable insights into farm life, family dynamics, and agricultural advocacy.
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Featured Episode: Muscles, Mindset, & Motivation! With Francesca Fontanelli
Follow Francesca on Instagram @FontFitness
In this episode, join host Val Lavigne, also known as Dairy Gal Val, as she delves into mental health, fitness, and the inspiring journey of Francesca Fontanelli, a Burn Boot Camp trainer, despite her non-farming background.
Introduction of Francesca: Francesca shares her transition from graphic designer to Burn Boot Camp trainer, emphasizing her passion for fitness and the supportive community at Burn Boot Camp.
Personal Health Journeys: Val and Francesca discuss their personal health journeys, highlighting the importance of staying active and the role of fitness in managing mental health.
Life-Altering Accident: Francesca recounts a life-altering accident in 2021 and the resilience and recovery process that followed, offering insights into overcoming adversity.
Reflections on the Accident: Val and Francesca reflect on the immediate aftermath of the accident and the transformative impact it had on their perspectives on life.
Impact on Perspective: The speakers explore how the accident changed their outlook on life, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing happiness and relationships.
Timeline of Recovery: The conversation moves to the timeline of recovery, detailing the challenges and triumphs encountered during the recovery process.
Embracing Challenges: They discuss the importance of celebrating small victories and maintaining a positive mindset throughout the recovery journey.
Finding Purpose: Francesca reflects on finding purpose through adversity and using personal experiences to empathize with others.
International Women’s Day and Mental Health: The episode coincides with International Women's Day, highlighting the significance of mental health in agriculture and encouraging individuals to prioritize their well-being.
Discussion on Mental Health in Agriculture: The speakers address mental health challenges in agriculture, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and support.
The Importance of Exercise for Mental Well-being: Personal experiences are shared regarding the role of exercise in coping with stress and improving mental health.
Discussion on Women's Body Image and Societal Pressures: They discuss societal pressures on women's bodies and the importance of focusing on overall well-being.
Prioritization and Self-Care: The conversation revolves around prioritizing self-care and setting an example for children by making time for fitness.
Misconceptions and Stigmas: The speakers challenge misconceptions about women and strength, emphasizing the importance of functional strength and physical capability.
Conclusion and Final Words of Wisdom: The episode concludes with an affirmation of the transformative power of fitness and the importance of prioritizing self-care for overall well-being.
Subscribe and Leave a Review: Thank you for supporting the Dairy Hour Podcast! Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content. Happy listening! 🎙️🐄
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Subscribe and Leave a Review for the Dairy Hour Podcast! Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Dairy Hour Podcast! Stay up-to-date with insightful interviews, engaging conversations, and valuable insights into farm life, family dynamics, and agricultural advocacy.
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Your feedback is important to us! If you enjoy listening to the Dairy Hour Podcast, we'd love to hear from you. Leave a review and share your thoughts about the podcast. Your reviews help us improve and reach more listeners who can benefit from our content. So, take a moment to leave a review and let us know what you think! Thank you for supporting the Dairy Hour Podcast. Happy listening! 🎙️🐄
Host: Dairy Gal Val (Val Lavigne)
Guests: Outgoing New York State Dairy Ambassadors - Arianna Aman, Eliza Schoeberl, and Isabella Esposito
Opening Remarks:
Val welcomes the audience to the Dairy Hour podcast and introduces the guests.
Val highlights the role of the outgoing New York State Dairy Ambassadors in promoting the dairy industry and educating consumers.
Guest Introductions:
Arianna Aman: Former New York State Dairy Ambassador (2023-2024). Pursuing dairy and law.
Eliza Schoeberl: Former New York State First Associate Dairy Ambassador (2023-2024). A high school senior with a passion for dairy promotion.
Isabella Esposito: Former New York State Second Associate Dairy Ambassador (2023-2024). Also a high school senior with plans to pursue agribusiness.
Motivation to Become Dairy Ambassadors:
Guests share their motivations, including family influences, passion for dairy, and desire to educate consumers.
Highlights of the Past Year:
Each guest shares memorable experiences, such as participating in events like Fuel Up to Play 60, social media mentorship, and working at the Milk Bar during the New York State Fair.
Challenges Faced and Overcome:
Guests discuss challenges such as time management and feelings of guilt for not reaching enough consumers, emphasizing the importance of finding balance and prioritizing efforts.
Contribution to Raising Awareness about the Dairy Industry:
Guests highlight their efforts in bridging the gap between consumers and dairy farmers through education, advocacy, and personal interactions.
Memorable Interactions:
Guests recall meaningful interactions with consumers, including inspiring children at events and sparking conversations with teachers after media interviews.
Aspirations and Goals for the Future:
Guests share their future plans, which include pursuing education in law and agribusiness while continuing to advocate for the dairy industry.
Advice for Incoming Dairy Ambassadors:
Guests offer advice to future ambassadors, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the experience, being genuine, and making the most of every opportunity.
Closing Remarks:
Val expresses gratitude to the guests for their dedication to the dairy industry and wishes them success in their future endeavors.
Guest Contact Information:
Guests provide information on where to follow the New York State Dairy Ambassador program on social media platforms.
Farewell:
Val bids farewell to the outgoing ambassadors and encourages listeners to support the program and engage with its content.