Heidi Montag on Butter Heads, Farming Challenges, and Ag Advocacy
In this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen interviews Heidi Montag, a finalist in the Princess Kay of the Milky Way program in Minnesota. They discuss Heidi's background in dairy farming, her experience in the Princess Kay program, and the unique journey of having her head carved in butter. Heidi shares her passion for promoting agriculture through social media, her involvement in multiple agricultural boards, and the challenges faced by modern dairy farmers. The conversation provides insight into the life of a young woman dedicated to both her family's dairy operation and broader agricultural advocacy.00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism00:19 Meet Heidi Montag01:17 The Princess Kay Program03:36 Life on a Dairy Farm09:44 Butter Head Sculptures12:04 Promoting Agriculture and Dairy14:26 Heidi's Involvement in Agriculture15:52 Joining FFA and Becoming a Dairy Princess16:44 Passion for Politics and Agriculture17:18 Family Farming Backgrounds19:39 Challenges in Modern Farming20:52 Farm Stand and Baking Ventures21:39 Radio Segments and Public Speaking22:41 Agritourism and Zoning Issues25:38 Sustainability and Generational Farming30:00 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing RemarksPodcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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31:56
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31:56
Crafting Cider from the Ground Up: Milk and Honey Cider’s Agritourism Journey
In this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen from Sunny Mary Meadow interviews Peter Gillitzer, co-owner of Milk and Honey Cider in St. Joseph, Minnesota. The conversation explores the journey of Milk and Honey Cider, from the challenges of growing cider-specific apple varieties to turning those apples into craft cider. Peter shares insights into the agronomic and economic aspects of apple farming, addressing topics like grafting, soil requirements, pest management, pruning, and the importance of understanding one's strengths in farming. The discussion extends to the cider-making process, including fermenting, aging, blending, and addressing how Milk and Honey balances customer demand with their craft. The episode highlights the collaborative spirit within the local farming community and the importance of supporting local agritourism.00:00 Introduction to Rotted Agritourism00:19 Meet Peter Giler: Co-Owner of Milk and Honey Cider01:37 Starting with Apples: The Journey Begins02:31 Challenges and Trials in Apple Growing04:57 Understanding Cider and Mead10:47 The Economics of Apple Farming18:50 Harvesting and Production Insights19:56 Grading and Processing Apples20:30 Cider Production Benefits21:15 Collaborations and Diversification22:58 Community and Competition25:58 Cider Making Process29:50 Balancing Production and Demand32:45 Crafting Unique Ciders37:32 Conclusion and Contact InformationPodcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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39:18
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39:18
Farming with Purpose: Liz Fiedler Mergen’s Vision for Rural Business Growth
In this insightful episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, the owner of Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm in Central Minnesota, shares her unique journey from a nursing career to becoming a successful flower farmer and rural entrepreneur. Joined by podcast producer Abbey as the guest host, Liz delves into her agricultural upbringing, the evolution of her business Sunny Mary Meadow, challenges in agritourism, and her vision to create sustainable income streams. The conversation covers the logistical and emotional facets involved in building a reputable flower farm, the implementation of agritourism strategies, and the significant role community support plays in her entrepreneurial journey. The episode wraps up with Liz’s favorite and least favorite farm tasks, educational resources, and a teaser for a new tool set to revolutionize farming. Tune in to hear an inspiring story filled with passion, perseverance, and purposeful growth.00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism00:19 Meet the Hosts: Dr. Liz and Abbey01:31 Liz's Agricultural Background02:18 Life After College and Meeting Josh05:41 Starting a Family and Farm Life07:54 Deciding to Stay on the Family Farm12:38 Building a Sustainable Flower Farm Business19:13 Legal and Zoning Challenges for Farm Venues21:06 Deciding to Build New: The Plan22:05 Collaborating with Local Businesses24:12 Creating a Multi-Use Space25:31 Business Strategy and Market Gaps32:52 Sustainable Flower Farming33:41 Rapid Fire Questions36:31 Conclusion and Future PlansPodcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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37:43
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37:43
Club Calves, Cattle Auctions & Agritourism: A Conversation with JT Weber
In this episode of the Rooted Agritourism Podcast, host Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen speaks with her father, JT Weber, about their experiences in value-added agriculture and the beef industry. They discuss the evolution of their family business, from dairy farming to focusing on elite genetics in Angus and Sim Angus cattle. JT shares insights on the intricacies of raising club calves for show, the importance of muscle, skeletal width, and other attributes in cattle, and his journey from South Dakota State University to becoming a successful cattle buyer and auctioneer. They also touch on topics such as the impact of drought on cattle supply, the controversy around grass-fed versus grain-fed beef, and the vital role of family support in achieving their business goals. The episode provides a deep dive into rural entrepreneurship and agritourism, emphasizing direct-to-consumer sales and adding value to agricultural products.00:00 Introduction to Rotted Agritourism00:19 Meet the Special Guest: My Dad01:28 Dad's Journey in Agriculture03:48 The Beef Industry and Club Calf Business08:40 The Evolution of Our Business17:15 Connecting with Ranchers and Seed Stock19:34 Understanding the Beef Industry: Ranchers vs. Feeders20:15 The Process of Finishing Cattle22:06 The Debate on Grass-Fed vs. Grain-Fed Beef24:39 Pricing and Market Trends in the Beef Industry27:12 Challenges and Opportunities in Cattle Ranching28:54 Order Buying and Building Customer Relationships31:18 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Personal Reflections34:25 Conclusion and AcknowledgementsPodcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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33:38
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33:38
From Seed to Sourdough with Jenny Bredeken of Full Circle Farm
In this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' host Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen speaks with Jenny Bredeken from Full Circle Farm. They discuss Jenny's entrepreneurial journey from Minnesota to Honolulu, exploring her passion for fermentation and sourdough bread that led to the creation of their farm and micro bakery. Jenny shares her experiences in reconnecting people with the origins of their food, the challenges of farming, and transitioning to wholesale markets. They also delve into the support of family legacy and the importance of local, fresh products. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about agritourism, rural entrepreneurship, and the power of following one's dreams despite the obstacles.00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism00:24 Meet Jenny Bredeken from Full Circle Farm01:24 The Origin Story of Full Circle Farm01:49 From Hawaii to Minnesota: A Journey of Passion05:29 The Birth of a Sourdough Business07:28 Challenges and Triumphs in Agritourism09:43 Building a Sustainable Future16:56 The Realities of Farming22:00 Current Offerings and Future Plans23:06 The Importance of Fresh Milled Flour23:50 Nutritional and Flavor Benefits of Fresh Flour24:45 Storing and Prioritizing Freshness26:06 The Value of Buying Local27:06 Pricing Strategies for Artisan Bread29:29 Challenges and Lessons in Wholesale33:16 Balancing Passion and Practicality35:21 Future Plans for the Farm37:59 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing ThoughtsPodcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
Rooted Agritourism is the go-to podcast for rural entrepreneurs building diversified, sustainable, and story-driven farm businesses. Hosted by Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen—flower farmer, educator, and founder of Sunny Mary Meadow cut flower farm—this show goes beyond blooms to explore the full spectrum of agritourism and value-added agriculture.Whether you're launching a U-pick field, hosting farm events, bottling your own products, or dreaming up the next big rural business idea, you'll find honest insights, real-world strategies, and a whole lot of encouragement here. Each episode blends personal experience, practical tools, and conversations with innovative ag-based business owners who are redefining what it means to grow on your own terms.From marketing perishable products to navigating burnout, building memberships, and scaling farm income streams—Rooted Agritourism is your weekly companion for building a life and business deeply rooted in purpose, place, and profitability.Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
New Zealand