In Her Boots
By In Her Boots
The re-release of In Her Boots shares and highlights the stories of Black and Brown women who traditionally have not had a platform to use their voice. Learn about the life and work of powerful women in agriculture through their conversations with new host Tiffany LaShae.
Tiffany is a farmer, researcher, educator, and activist with a diverse background in food justice, regenerative agriculture, afroecology, agroecology, ‘permaculture’ & more.
This is a production from Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES).
In Her BootsNov 08, 2021
00:00
37:35
Episode 5 with Dr. Akilah Martin: Miseducation of a Farmer
In today's episode, Dr. Akilah Martin shares about her journey with soil and agriculture. She also reflects on her experiences attending an an HBCU (Historically Black College & University) vs. a PWI (Predominately White Institution), her work with DePaul University, and her current projects in Chicago. Dr. Akilah Martin is a soil enthusiast, soil scientist and the author of 'Miseducation of a Farmer.'
Miseducation of a Farmer: https://www.humansandnature.org/miseducation-of-a-farmer
Nov 08, 202137:35
Episode 4 with Maryan Abdinur - 'An East African In Minnesota'
In today’s episode, Maryan Abdinur shares childhood memories from growing up in Somalia. Maryan works with Hope Communities Inc as Food, Land and Community Program Lead, aka "the weird person that carries around plants and seeds."
Sep 17, 202143:25
KaZoua Berry: A Call to Action
In today's episode, Tiffany chats with KaZoua about her role with Minnesota Food Association, nonprofit farming, and the exclusivity of organic farming. KaZoua discusses her memories as a Hmong refugee and her life as the mother of mixed races (Black & Hmong) children. After the killings of George Floyd and Daunte Wright, KaZoua bravely used her voice to challenge white-led organizations to act against systemic racism and police brutality.
Big River Farms: https://bigriverfarms.thefoodgroupmn.org/
Aug 20, 202140:43
Bootless with Dani Pieratos, Part II: Mino chige
In part II of Tiffany's conversation with Dani Pieratos, Dani talks about her connection to the earth and discusses the goals and challenges of the food, agriculture, and land access projects she's working on.
Dani Pieratos is a mother, water protector, and advocate for Indigenous communal sufficiency, food sovereignty, and sustainable agriculture. She works with organizations such as Harvest Nation, The Land Access Alliance, Bois Forte Food Sovereignty, and the Sustainable Agriculture Community Advocacy Group.
Aug 05, 202125:50
Bootless with Dani Pieratos, Part I: Facing intergenerational trauma
Dani Pieratos is a mother, water protector, and advocate for Indigenous communal sufficiency, food sovereignty, and sustainable agriculture. She works with organizations such as Harvest Nation, The Land Access Alliance, Bois Forte Food Sovereignty, and the Sustainable Agriculture Community Advocacy Group.
In this episode, Dani describes the harmful impacts of intergenerational trauma endured by the Indigenous Community, some of which she's seen manifest in her own life.
Blog: White farmers blocked a much-needed federal relief program for Black farmers.
Jul 21, 202131:38
Introducing Bootless: the new season of In Her Boots with Tiffany LaShae
We are pleased to present to you the new season of the In Her Boots podcast. The theme of this season, and the new direction of the show, is "Bootless." This shift is explained in this sneak peak of the first three episodes with new host Tiffany LaShae. Through Tiffany's conversations with her guests, the podcast shares and highlights the stories of Black and Brown women who traditionally have not had a platform to use their voice.
Tiffany is a farmer, researcher, educator, and activist with a diverse background in food justice, regenerative agriculture, afroecology, agroecology, ‘permaculture’ & more.
Jun 25, 202115:08
JohnElla Holmes - Resilience through Community
Today, we talk to Dr. JohnElla Holmes, executive director of the Kansas Black Farmers Association and part of the wheat farming community in Kansas. She shares a deep-rooted story of resilience from her family’s farming history and building the African American agricultural community in Nicodemus, Kansas. Hear how being proactive, asking questions, and cultivating community add up to strength to stay in farming for the long haul.
JohnElla retired from Kansas State University in 2015 to come "home" to historic Nicodemus, Kansas, which is the oldest all-African-American town west of the Mississippi River and now a National Historic Site. She is a 5th generation descendant of these original settlers in a community that today raised wheat, milo, and cattle.
This episode wraps up our Resilience series and our In Her Boots podcast for this season. Thanks for listening and subscribing so you'll know when we're back with more episodes focused on inspiring women farmers, educators, and organizers committed to sustainable and organic agriculture.
JohnElla retired from Kansas State University in 2015 to come "home" to historic Nicodemus, Kansas, which is the oldest all-African-American town west of the Mississippi River and now a National Historic Site. She is a 5th generation descendant of these original settlers in a community that today raised wheat, milo, and cattle.
This episode wraps up our Resilience series and our In Her Boots podcast for this season. Thanks for listening and subscribing so you'll know when we're back with more episodes focused on inspiring women farmers, educators, and organizers committed to sustainable and organic agriculture.
Aug 28, 202029:41
Kelsey Ducheneaux on Strength through Connection
Today for our "Resilience Boot Camp" series, Kelsey Ducheneaux shares how her Indigenous roots drive her work, building on the themes she talked about in her MOSES Conference workshop this past February. It’s all about connections for Kelsey, from observing and appreciating the diversity on our land to building awareness to know when soil is depleted.
Kelsey Ducheneaux is a member of the Lakota Sioux Nation. She is the fourth generation at the DX Ranch on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation, offering locally raised beef for direct sale. Kelsey also works as the Natural Resources Director and Youth Programs Coordinator for the Intertribal Agriculture Council, which presents her with the unique opportunity to support the improvement of Indian lands for Indian people across the nation.
Kelsey Ducheneaux is a member of the Lakota Sioux Nation. She is the fourth generation at the DX Ranch on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation, offering locally raised beef for direct sale. Kelsey also works as the Natural Resources Director and Youth Programs Coordinator for the Intertribal Agriculture Council, which presents her with the unique opportunity to support the improvement of Indian lands for Indian people across the nation.
Aug 21, 202025:22
Mariann Holm on Grit
Mariann Holm of Holm Boys Dairy talks about the turning points in her life that cultivated grit—the courage and resolve to be a farmer. From taking the risk to leave a cushy corporate gig in California to start their organic dairy in Wisconsin to successfully battling thyroid cancer when the odds were not in her favor, Mariann inspires us all to change life’s curveballs into opportunities to make us stronger farmers and women.
Mariann and her husband, Doran, own a grass-based organic farm in Dunn County, Wisconsin, where they raise organic dairy heifers. Mariann is an organic crop and livestock inspector and serves on the Wisconsin Organic Advisory Council and the Menomonie Market Food Co-op Board of Directors.
Mariann and her husband, Doran, own a grass-based organic farm in Dunn County, Wisconsin, where they raise organic dairy heifers. Mariann is an organic crop and livestock inspector and serves on the Wisconsin Organic Advisory Council and the Menomonie Market Food Co-op Board of Directors.
Aug 14, 202027:15
Molly Rockamann on Regeneration
For our Resilience series, today we connect with Molly Rockamann of EarthDance Farm to explore how she overcame burnout by taking a year sabbatical from the farm to travel, experience new things, and prioritize the in-person people connections in her life. Most importantly, she returned to her farming career recommitted and renewed—just in time to lead her organization through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Molly is the Founding Director of EarthDance Organic Farm School in Ferguson, Missouri, and the visionary who saved the oldest organic farm west of the Mississippi from development, transforming it into an educational platform for organic agriculture and community empowerment. A native of St. Louis, she resides in Ferguson near the farm. Her passion for good food includes social justice and equity; she believes that the most regenerative agriculture is inclusive of people from all backgrounds.
Molly is the Founding Director of EarthDance Organic Farm School in Ferguson, Missouri, and the visionary who saved the oldest organic farm west of the Mississippi from development, transforming it into an educational platform for organic agriculture and community empowerment. A native of St. Louis, she resides in Ferguson near the farm. Her passion for good food includes social justice and equity; she believes that the most regenerative agriculture is inclusive of people from all backgrounds.
Aug 07, 202031:53
Laura Gosewisch on Taking Care of Your Body While Farming
Today's episode in our Resilience series focuses on how to take care of the most important tool on our farms: our own bodies. Clinical massage therapist Laura Gosewisch shares her clinical knowledge alongside her own first-hand farming knowledge to help us "calibrate the compass of life" for holistic well-being.
In her practice, Laura supports people recovering from complex injuries. She and a partner run Vital Ground Farm, growing and selling vegetables, fruit, and herbs along with preserved foods at the Twin Cities Farmers Market under Minnesota's cottage food law.
In her practice, Laura supports people recovering from complex injuries. She and a partner run Vital Ground Farm, growing and selling vegetables, fruit, and herbs along with preserved foods at the Twin Cities Farmers Market under Minnesota's cottage food law.
Jul 31, 202033:48
Cynthie Christensen on Gratitude in Farming
Our Resilience series continues as Cynthie Christensen shares her perspective on cultivating gratitude in the daily farming routine. Cynthie's resilience roots dig deep into her rural upbringing and childhood experiences, including the loss of the family farm and how that impacted her and inspired her role today as an advocate and educator in farmer mental health.
Cynthie is both a farmer and a licensed therapist with a passion for rural mental health. She has a private practice, Oak Ridge Teletherapy, and has worked as a psychiatric nurse in an inpatient hospital for the past 20 years. Cynthie has been connected to farming all her life. She is a graduate of the Minnesota Agricultural Rural Leadership Program and currently serves as the President of the Houston County Farm Bureau. Recently, she was appointed to the Minnesota Advisory Council on Mental Health.
Cynthie is both a farmer and a licensed therapist with a passion for rural mental health. She has a private practice, Oak Ridge Teletherapy, and has worked as a psychiatric nurse in an inpatient hospital for the past 20 years. Cynthie has been connected to farming all her life. She is a graduate of the Minnesota Agricultural Rural Leadership Program and currently serves as the President of the Houston County Farm Bureau. Recently, she was appointed to the Minnesota Advisory Council on Mental Health.
Jul 23, 202028:02
Venice Williams on Mindfulness in Farming
We continue our Resilience series this week with Venice Williams of Alice's Garden. She shares her insights and inspiration on keeping grounded and mindful while farming.
"I have not met a woman farmer who is not passionate about her work," she says. "It's not a job. We're not going to a job. We're going to a vocation. Farming is a vocation that renews me every single day. It strengthens us. It excites us. We give ourselves way more tasks than we can ever accomplish in one season, which makes us eager for the next thing."
Venice is the visionary leader of Alice’s Garden, located on the north side of Milwaukee, which models regenerative farming, community cultural development, and economic agricultural enterprises for the global landscape. Venice calls herself a cultural and spiritual midwife, strongly believing she was put in Creation to help bring forth all that is good and whole in people and places. She has been doing just that in Milwaukee for the past 31 years.
"I have not met a woman farmer who is not passionate about her work," she says. "It's not a job. We're not going to a job. We're going to a vocation. Farming is a vocation that renews me every single day. It strengthens us. It excites us. We give ourselves way more tasks than we can ever accomplish in one season, which makes us eager for the next thing."
Venice is the visionary leader of Alice’s Garden, located on the north side of Milwaukee, which models regenerative farming, community cultural development, and economic agricultural enterprises for the global landscape. Venice calls herself a cultural and spiritual midwife, strongly believing she was put in Creation to help bring forth all that is good and whole in people and places. She has been doing just that in Milwaukee for the past 31 years.
Jul 16, 202031:03
Meg Moynihan on Building Your Resilience Toolbox
We kick off our Resilience series with Meg Moynihan who knows a thing or two about resilience. She shares how her farm suddenly lost its milk buyer and the learnings she harvested through the experience. "Sometimes resilience is staying on the horse and in the saddle... Sometimes it’s getting up again after you fall off the horse. And, sometimes it’s knowing enough that, after you fall, you just need to lie there a while and regroup and recuperate before you can decide whether you run after the horse, get back on the horse, or sell the horse."
Meg Moynihan leads the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s efforts to support farmers and others in agriculture who are experiencing financial, emotional, and mental stress in their lives and communities. Trained as an agronomist, Meg previously worked as a program director, educator, and evaluator. She also served with the U.S Peace Corps in Thailand. She and her husband, Kevin Stuedemann, own a diversified 70-cow organic dairy farm in Le Sueur County, Minnesota.
Meg Moynihan leads the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s efforts to support farmers and others in agriculture who are experiencing financial, emotional, and mental stress in their lives and communities. Trained as an agronomist, Meg previously worked as a program director, educator, and evaluator. She also served with the U.S Peace Corps in Thailand. She and her husband, Kevin Stuedemann, own a diversified 70-cow organic dairy farm in Le Sueur County, Minnesota.
Jul 10, 202030:51
Resilience Boot Camp
Building resilience and supporting the mental and physical health of our women farmer community is a strong priority of the MOSES In Her Boots project. In today's episode, host Lisa Kivirist shares thoughts on what it means to be resilient in the face of the current public health crisis and, really, every day. She also shares a preview of upcoming episodes in our 8-week "Resilience Boot Camp." Listen in and decide if you're a carrot, egg, or coffee bean.
Jul 02, 202018:32
Lindsay Rebhan on Regenerative Agriculture
Today we wrap up our women caring for the land series with Lindsay Rebhan, taking a deep dive into regenerative agriculture—what it is and why it is important and how we as a community of women committed to sustainability can lead and champion the movement. As Lindsay points out, the important first step in permaculture is observing your land and seeing, understanding, and appreciating what the foundation you already have.
Lindsay Rebhan is a co-owner of Ecological Design, a certified permaculture designer and ecological consultant based in western Wisconsin. A specialist in agroecology, land design, and land management, Lindsay works with farmers, food nonprofits, and organizations to increase the ecological, human, animal, and economic wealth of land over time.
Lindsay Rebhan is a co-owner of Ecological Design, a certified permaculture designer and ecological consultant based in western Wisconsin. A specialist in agroecology, land design, and land management, Lindsay works with farmers, food nonprofits, and organizations to increase the ecological, human, animal, and economic wealth of land over time.
Jun 26, 202020:50
Patti Shevers on Returning to the Family Farm
We continue our conversations with women landowners passionate about conservation today with Patti Schevers, who returned to her family farm to steward the land for future generations. Patti offers advice on how to learn and self-educate when you're new to conservation and, as in her case, do so in strong partnership with family.
Patti is the 4th generation stewarding Schevers Farm, located outside of Green Bay, Wisconsin. The property has been in her family since 1914 and the original 113 acres are all still intact. Patti and her husband, Bradley Burger, are initiating a variety of farm businesses including honey hives, chickens, and vegetables. Patti is leading a variety of conservation initiatives on the land in partnership with NRCS as well as operating a 3-site tent glamping campground on her parcel.
Patti is the 4th generation stewarding Schevers Farm, located outside of Green Bay, Wisconsin. The property has been in her family since 1914 and the original 113 acres are all still intact. Patti and her husband, Bradley Burger, are initiating a variety of farm businesses including honey hives, chickens, and vegetables. Patti is leading a variety of conservation initiatives on the land in partnership with NRCS as well as operating a 3-site tent glamping campground on her parcel.
Jun 19, 202018:07
Deirdre Birmingham on Farm Conservation
We continue our series about women doing conservation work on their land, talking today with Deirdre Birmingham of The Cider Farm. She shares her land stewardship journey and offers tips for tapping into agency expertise and various funding opportunities.
Deirdre Birmingham runs The Cider Farm with her husband, John Bondi, in Mineral Point Wisconsin. They raise organic English and French cider apples which are pressed into a variety of hard ciders and apple brandy, which you can sample at their tasting room in Madison. A life-long conservationist, Deirdre has worked extensively to add conservation practices to her land, including plantings to benefit pollinators to keep the orchard producing bountiful apples.
Deirdre Birmingham runs The Cider Farm with her husband, John Bondi, in Mineral Point Wisconsin. They raise organic English and French cider apples which are pressed into a variety of hard ciders and apple brandy, which you can sample at their tasting room in Madison. A life-long conservationist, Deirdre has worked extensively to add conservation practices to her land, including plantings to benefit pollinators to keep the orchard producing bountiful apples.
Jun 12, 202021:45
Jennifer Filipiak on Land Trusts
Today on our In Her Boots podcast, we’re talking about tools for land conservation with Jennifer Filipiak of the Driftless Area Land Conservancy. A champion for women landowners, Jen explains what a conservation easement is and how this can be an important tool to strategically preserve your land with your conservation goals in mind. Want to keep your farm in agriculture and protect it from development? Listen in for ideas and resources.
Jennifer Filipiak serves as Executive Director of the Driftless Area Land Conservancy, a land trust in Southwest Wisconsin dedicated to protecting the natural and agricultural landscape through permanent land protection and restoration. Jen and her husband, Pete, recently bought a farm in Lafayette County and jumped into the challenges of restoring fencing and old barns.
Jennifer Filipiak serves as Executive Director of the Driftless Area Land Conservancy, a land trust in Southwest Wisconsin dedicated to protecting the natural and agricultural landscape through permanent land protection and restoration. Jen and her husband, Pete, recently bought a farm in Lafayette County and jumped into the challenges of restoring fencing and old barns.
Jun 05, 202023:23
Thelma Heidel-Baker on Caring for the Land
As part of our special "Women Caring for the Land" series, we're talking today with Thelma Heidel-Baker of Bossie Cow Farm in Wisconsin. Thelma shares how she detoured from an academic career in entomology—she’s actually a bug doctor with her Ph.D.—to return to her family farm to re-craft a livelihood for her young family. Thelma’s passion for conservation shines as she gives us practical advice on setting up conservation strategies, noting that land stewardship is a journey. She encourages us to follow what naturally fascinates us...which, in her case, is insects.
Thelma Heidel-Baker and her husband, Ricky Baker, run Bossie Cow Farm, a small, diversified organic dairy farm amidst the rolling hills of southeastern Wisconsin. Using managed rotational grazing to take care of the land and feed their livestock, Thelma and Ricky also sell organic farm products such as beef, eggs, chicken, and pork direct to local customers.
Thelma Heidel-Baker and her husband, Ricky Baker, run Bossie Cow Farm, a small, diversified organic dairy farm amidst the rolling hills of southeastern Wisconsin. Using managed rotational grazing to take care of the land and feed their livestock, Thelma and Ricky also sell organic farm products such as beef, eggs, chicken, and pork direct to local customers.
May 29, 202024:03
Dr. Jean Eells on Conservation Plans for Women Landowners
Dr. Jean Eells talks about women landowners and their historic roles on farms, sharing tips based on her research into the best ways to help these landowners learn about conservation practices they can put into practice on their land. If you're a woman who owns land you farm or rent out or you work in conservation programs, listen in to hear about ways we can encourage conservation practices.
Dr. Jean Eells operates E Resources Group, an evaluation and research business working with private businesses, governmental agencies, and nonprofit organizations to facilitate and evaluate projects to improve success. She has pioneered a model of outreach to women landowners used by many states and organizations and is a leader in how to best reach and support women in achieving their conservation goals. A landowner in central Iowa, she is working with her family and the tenant farmer to incorporate more conservation practices, like no-till and cover crops.
Dr. Jean Eells operates E Resources Group, an evaluation and research business working with private businesses, governmental agencies, and nonprofit organizations to facilitate and evaluate projects to improve success. She has pioneered a model of outreach to women landowners used by many states and organizations and is a leader in how to best reach and support women in achieving their conservation goals. A landowner in central Iowa, she is working with her family and the tenant farmer to incorporate more conservation practices, like no-till and cover crops.
May 22, 202021:17
Stories from Women Caring for the Land
The In Her Boots podcast now has more than 130 episodes featuring women who are changing the food system for the better. Today, host Lisa Kivirist takes a look at the focus of our In Her Boots programming and offers a glimpse of what to expect on the show in the coming weeks.
May 15, 202015:15
Betty Anderson on Caring For Ourselves
We are wrapping up our series with Betty Anderson talking about ways we can take care of themselves. She shares how serving in the military impacts her farming career and how she found healing for PTSD with her hands in the soil.
Betty Anderson and her husband, Dane, are the current stewards at The Old Smith Place outside Brodhead, Wisconsin. Their 40-acre farm is home to goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and a Jersey "house" cow. Betty is a Navy veteran and a beginning farmer who sells her jams and other canned items under Wisconsin’s cottage food law.
Betty Anderson and her husband, Dane, are the current stewards at The Old Smith Place outside Brodhead, Wisconsin. Their 40-acre farm is home to goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and a Jersey "house" cow. Betty is a Navy veteran and a beginning farmer who sells her jams and other canned items under Wisconsin’s cottage food law.
May 08, 202018:45
Add Jams and Jellies to your Business Mix
Join us today for another conversation with farmer Betty Anderson of The Old Smith Place as she shares how she added an income stream for her farm by selling jams and jellies under Wisconsin’s cottage food law. Her signature creations have unique flavors (Ever try corn cob jelly?) that make good use of the produce she grows on the farm.
Betty Anderson and her husband, Dane, are the current stewards at The Old Smith Place outside Brodhead, Wisconsin. Their 40-acre farm is home to goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and a Jersey “house” cow. Betty is a Navy veteran and a beginning farmer.
Betty Anderson and her husband, Dane, are the current stewards at The Old Smith Place outside Brodhead, Wisconsin. Their 40-acre farm is home to goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and a Jersey “house” cow. Betty is a Navy veteran and a beginning farmer.
May 01, 202016:41
Tips to Diversify your Farm Business from Betty Anderson
"A funny thing happened on my way to the supermarket...I became a farmer." On today’s episode, Wisconsin farmer Betty Anderson shares the role diversification plays in her farm operation. Hear her advice for strategically saying "no" to some things while amplifying what you've said "yes" to and taking care of yourself in the process.
Betty Anderson and her husband, Dane, are the current stewards at The Old Smith Place outside Brodhead, Wisconsin. Their 40-acre farm is home to goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and a Jersey "house" cow. Betty is a Navy veteran and a beginning farmer who sells her jams and other canned items under Wisconsin’s cottage food law.
Betty Anderson and her husband, Dane, are the current stewards at The Old Smith Place outside Brodhead, Wisconsin. Their 40-acre farm is home to goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and a Jersey "house" cow. Betty is a Navy veteran and a beginning farmer who sells her jams and other canned items under Wisconsin’s cottage food law.
Apr 24, 202017:53
Betty Anderson: My Farm Story
We kick off a new series with Betty Anderson of The Old Smith Place, a diversified farm in southern Wisconsin. Before starting her farm with her husband, Betty served as a cryptologist in the military and lived all over the world. She talks about the importance of finding your tribe and creating a “no judgment zone" when we connect with other women farmers.
Betty Anderson and her husband, Dane, are the current stewards at The Old Smith Place outside Brodhead, Wisconsin. Their 40-acre farm is home to goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and a Jersey "house" cow. Betty is a Navy veteran and a beginning farmer who sells her jams and other canned items under Wisconsin’s cottage food law.
Betty Anderson and her husband, Dane, are the current stewards at The Old Smith Place outside Brodhead, Wisconsin. Their 40-acre farm is home to goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and a Jersey "house" cow. Betty is a Navy veteran and a beginning farmer who sells her jams and other canned items under Wisconsin’s cottage food law.
Apr 17, 202018:07
Market Farming In A Pandemic
From the all-new MOSES Organic Farming Podcast, here's an episode with vegetable growers Katie Bishop and Rebecca Henderson on what they're doing in light of coronavirus, as well as online marketing expert Janelle Maiocco on how to quickly get started in online sales.
Like this podcast? Subscribe to the MOSES Organic Farming Podcast wherever you get your podcasts or access it here: anchor.fm/moses-podcast
Like this podcast? Subscribe to the MOSES Organic Farming Podcast wherever you get your podcasts or access it here: anchor.fm/moses-podcast
Apr 15, 202048:50
Tips on Sharing Your Farm Story
We are wrapping up our series with Inga Witscher of Around the Farm Table, talking today about communications strategies for women farmers to share our stories. Hear her tips and ideas to present your best barn boot forward when the media visit your farm and advice on feeling comfortable on camera from her seasoned experience hosting the TV show Around the Farm Table.
Inga Witscher is a fourth-generation dairy farmer who owns and operates a micro-dairy in western Wisconsin, turning the milk from her 8 grass-fed cows into a raw milk cheddar. She is also the co-creator and host of the PBS series “Around the Farm Table,” highlighting Midwestern farms and artisan food producers.
Inga Witscher is a fourth-generation dairy farmer who owns and operates a micro-dairy in western Wisconsin, turning the milk from her 8 grass-fed cows into a raw milk cheddar. She is also the co-creator and host of the PBS series “Around the Farm Table,” highlighting Midwestern farms and artisan food producers.
Apr 10, 202019:48
Inga Witscher on Cultivating Resilience
We’re continuing with Inga Witscher of Around the Farm Table and St. Isidore’s Farmstead Creamery as she shares her personal experience dealing with disaster when her barn and new creamery project burned to the ground. Listen to her inspiring story of resilience, self-care, and the importance of community support to heal and rebuild even stronger.
Inga Witscher is a fourth-generation dairy farmer who owns and operates a micro-dairy in western Wisconsin, turning the milk from her 8 grass-fed cows into a raw milk cheddar. She is also the co-creator and host of the PBS series “Around the Farm Table,” highlighting Midwestern farms and artisan food producers.
Inga Witscher is a fourth-generation dairy farmer who owns and operates a micro-dairy in western Wisconsin, turning the milk from her 8 grass-fed cows into a raw milk cheddar. She is also the co-creator and host of the PBS series “Around the Farm Table,” highlighting Midwestern farms and artisan food producers.
Apr 03, 202018:25
Inga Witscher on Running a Diversified Farm
Today, we dig into a topic near and dear to Inga Witscher: running a diversified farm business. Hear about enterprises she has tried—like a farmstay B&B and growing garlic—that turned out weren’t right for her but provided good lessons.
Inga Witscher is a fourth-generation dairy farmer who owns and operates a micro-dairy in western Wisconsin, turning the milk from her 8 grass-fed cows into a raw milk cheddar. She is also the co-creator and host of the PBS series “Around the Farm Table,” highlighting Midwestern farms and artisan food producers.
Mar 27, 202019:57
Inga Witscher's Farm Story
Inga Witcher of the national show "Around the Farm Table" shares her inspiring farm story, which includes family roots in dairy, a few detours, experience getting a beginning farming loan from FSA, and how she's running a small dairy farm today while hosting a national TV show.
Inga Witscher is a fourth-generation dairy farmer who owns and operates a micro-dairy in western Wisconsin, turning the milk from her 8 grass-fed cows into a raw milk cheddar. She is also the co-creator and host of the PBS series “Around the Farm Table,” highlighting Midwestern farms and artisan food producers.
Inga Witscher is a fourth-generation dairy farmer who owns and operates a micro-dairy in western Wisconsin, turning the milk from her 8 grass-fed cows into a raw milk cheddar. She is also the co-creator and host of the PBS series “Around the Farm Table,” highlighting Midwestern farms and artisan food producers.
Mar 20, 202020:14
FL Morris on CBD Production
We are wrapping up our series with FL Morris of Grassroots Farm diving into a newer passion of hers: CBD production. Are you curious about growing hemp and need the basics? This is the episode for you as FL navigates us through key terms, things to think about, and future opportunities.
FL Morris is a first-generation farmer, running Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, where she grows certified organic vegetables and raises pastured livestock. FL is a founding member, president and membership director of the South Central Wisconsin Hemp Cooperative, the first organic farmer-led hemp cooperative in the state.
FL Morris is a first-generation farmer, running Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, where she grows certified organic vegetables and raises pastured livestock. FL is a founding member, president and membership director of the South Central Wisconsin Hemp Cooperative, the first organic farmer-led hemp cooperative in the state.
Mar 13, 202027:40
FL Morris on Taking a Farm Sabbatical
We’re back with FL Morris of Grassroots Farm to talk about an important detour in her farming career: a year-long sabbatical off her farm. Hear about the insights she gained from working on farms on the west coast for a year and how the sabbatical fueled her commitment to her farm. If you're worried about farming burnout, this is the episode for you!
FL Morris is a first-generation farmer, running Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, where she grows certified organic vegetables and raises pastured livestock. FL is a founding member, president and membership director of the South Central Wisconsin Hemp Cooperative, the first organic farmer-led hemp cooperative in the state.
FL Morris is a first-generation farmer, running Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, where she grows certified organic vegetables and raises pastured livestock. FL is a founding member, president and membership director of the South Central Wisconsin Hemp Cooperative, the first organic farmer-led hemp cooperative in the state.
Mar 06, 202021:58
FL Morris on Managing Risk with a Community Food Hub
We’re continuing our series with FL Morris of Grassroots Farm as she talks about how to manage risk and make smart decisions in a regional food hub. Embrace the fact that change is constant advises FL, especially embracing that our climate is increasingly changing and unpredictable. Hear her evolution with CSA and how embracing cooperative strategies helps mitigate risk.
FL Morris is a first-generation farmer, running Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, where she grows certified organic vegetables and raises pastured livestock. FL is a founding member, president and membership director of the South Central Wisconsin Hemp Cooperative, the first organic farmer-led hemp cooperative in the state.
FL Morris is a first-generation farmer, running Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, where she grows certified organic vegetables and raises pastured livestock. FL is a founding member, president and membership director of the South Central Wisconsin Hemp Cooperative, the first organic farmer-led hemp cooperative in the state.
Mar 03, 202023:02
FL Morris: My Farm Story
We’re starting a new series with FL Morris of Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin. Today, she shares how she went from an art degree to a career in organic farming. She offers a dose of inspiration that we don’t need to have our whole farming career figured out, but rather take things step-by-step and follow our hearts.
FL Morris is a first-generation farmer, running Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, where she grows certified organic vegetables and raises pastured livestock. FL is a founding member, president and membership director of the South Central Wisconsin Hemp Cooperative, the first organic farmer-led hemp cooperative in the state.
FL Morris is a first-generation farmer, running Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, where she grows certified organic vegetables and raises pastured livestock. FL is a founding member, president and membership director of the South Central Wisconsin Hemp Cooperative, the first organic farmer-led hemp cooperative in the state.
Feb 21, 202018:32
Kelly Placke-Raaum on Farm Evolution & Diversification
We are wrapping up our series with Kelly Placke-Raaum of Placke Organic Acres, talking about how she embraces diversity as part of her business plan. Learn how she adds new ideas and creativity into her farm business in between the daily running of the dairy.
Kelly is the herdswoman on her family’s dairy farm outside of Cuba City, Wisconsin. Their farm has been certified organic since 1996. They currently produce small grains, beef, and grassmilk for Organic Valley. Kelly shares how her journey came full circle, from growing up on the first organic farm in her county to earning an art degree and living in the southwest to coming back to join the family dairy.
Kelly is the herdswoman on her family’s dairy farm outside of Cuba City, Wisconsin. Their farm has been certified organic since 1996. They currently produce small grains, beef, and grassmilk for Organic Valley. Kelly shares how her journey came full circle, from growing up on the first organic farm in her county to earning an art degree and living in the southwest to coming back to join the family dairy.
Feb 14, 202017:28
Cover Crops as Forage
Join us today for another conversation with farmer Kelly Placke-Raaum of Placke Organic Acres as she shares her passion for soil health—everything depends on healthy soil. Hear how she manages risk by building soil fertility through cover crops and how this works into winter feed for the cows.
Kelly Placke-Raaum is the herdswoman on her family’s dairy farm outside of Cuba City, Wisconsin. Their farm has been certified organic since 1996. They currently produce small grains, beef, and grassmilk for Organic Valley. Kelly shares how her journey came full circle, from growing up on the first organic farm in her county to earning an art degree and living in the southwest to coming back to join the family dairy.
Kelly Placke-Raaum is the herdswoman on her family’s dairy farm outside of Cuba City, Wisconsin. Their farm has been certified organic since 1996. They currently produce small grains, beef, and grassmilk for Organic Valley. Kelly shares how her journey came full circle, from growing up on the first organic farm in her county to earning an art degree and living in the southwest to coming back to join the family dairy.
Feb 07, 202014:37
Communicating Your Farm Story
On today’s episode, hear how Kelly Placke-Raaum talks about her farming story and connection to organics in various settings from the media to conversations with conventional ag farmers. Kelly has found anyone can spout facts and figures, but it’s what lights your fire that moves people.
Kelly Placke-Raaum is the herdswoman on her family’s dairy farm outside of Cuba City, Wisconsin. Their farm has been certified organic since 1996. They currently produce small grains, beef, and grassmilk for Organic Valley. Kelly shares how her journey came full circle, from growing up on the first organic farm in her county to earning an art degree and living in the southwest to coming back to join the family dairy.
Kelly Placke-Raaum is the herdswoman on her family’s dairy farm outside of Cuba City, Wisconsin. Their farm has been certified organic since 1996. They currently produce small grains, beef, and grassmilk for Organic Valley. Kelly shares how her journey came full circle, from growing up on the first organic farm in her county to earning an art degree and living in the southwest to coming back to join the family dairy.
Jan 31, 202018:11
My Farm Story with Kelly Placke-Raaum
Kelly Placke-Raaum is the herdswoman on her family’s dairy farm outside of Cuba City, Wisconsin. Their farm has been certified organic since 1996.They currently produce small grains, beef, and grassmilk for Organic Valley. Kelly shares how her journey came full circle, from growing up on the first organic farm in her county to earning an art degree and living in the southwest to coming back to join the family dairy.
Jan 24, 202017:07
Barb Perkins on a Safe Farm Environment for Workers
We are wrapping up our In Her Boots podcast series with Barb Perkins of Vermont Valley Farm talking about how to keep workers safe on our farms. Barb reflects on things to think about when moving to paid staff and the role worker-shares played on her farm. Listen in for ideas to use on your farm to keep workers safe.
Barb Perkins and her husband, David, ran Vermont Valley Community Farm CSA from 1994 through 2018. The farm, near Madison, Wisconsin, was one of the first CSAs in the state and one of the largest. The farm engaged its members in many ways and became a vibrant community over the years. Barb is an advocate for CSA and an educator for CSA farmers and the community. Barb and David retired the CSA after 24 amazing seasons. Vermont Valley continues to grow and sell certified organic seed potatoes.
Barb Perkins and her husband, David, ran Vermont Valley Community Farm CSA from 1994 through 2018. The farm, near Madison, Wisconsin, was one of the first CSAs in the state and one of the largest. The farm engaged its members in many ways and became a vibrant community over the years. Barb is an advocate for CSA and an educator for CSA farmers and the community. Barb and David retired the CSA after 24 amazing seasons. Vermont Valley continues to grow and sell certified organic seed potatoes.
Jan 17, 202016:46
Barb Perkins on Risk Management with CSA
In this episode, Barb Perkins of Vermont Valley Community Farm explains how the CSA model manages risk in her regional food hub of Madison. Highlights of today's conversation include making the most of space by succession planting and the all-important “C” in CSA: community. Barb shares ways she involved their CSA members as partners in their farm.
Barb Perkins and her husband, David, ran Vermont Valley Community Farm CSA from 1994 through 2018. The farm, near Madison, Wisconsin, was one of the first CSAs in the state and one of the largest. The farm engaged its members in many ways and became a vibrant community over the years. Barb is an advocate for CSA and an educator for CSA farmers and the community. Barb and David retired the CSA after 24 amazing seasons. Vermont Valley continues to grow and sell certified organic seed potatoes.
Barb Perkins and her husband, David, ran Vermont Valley Community Farm CSA from 1994 through 2018. The farm, near Madison, Wisconsin, was one of the first CSAs in the state and one of the largest. The farm engaged its members in many ways and became a vibrant community over the years. Barb is an advocate for CSA and an educator for CSA farmers and the community. Barb and David retired the CSA after 24 amazing seasons. Vermont Valley continues to grow and sell certified organic seed potatoes.
Jan 10, 202017:11
Farm Transition with Barb Perkins
We’re back with Barb Perkins of Vermont Valley Community Farm to hear about her next life chapter after the farm’s last growing season in 2018. Barb shares the challenging thought process she went through to define what retirement from farming looks like. She explains how she's had to learn to listen to her body as she grows older and joyfully embrace what’s next after decades of running an intense CSA business.
Barb Perkins and her husband, David, ran Vermont Valley Community Farm CSA from 1994 through 2018. The farm, near Madison, Wisconsin, was one of the first CSAs in the state and one of the largest. The farm engaged its members in many ways and became a vibrant community over the years. Barb is an advocate for CSA and an educator for CSA farmers and the community. Barb and David retired the CSA after 24 amazing seasons. Vermont Valley continues to grow and sell certified organic seed potatoes.
Barb Perkins and her husband, David, ran Vermont Valley Community Farm CSA from 1994 through 2018. The farm, near Madison, Wisconsin, was one of the first CSAs in the state and one of the largest. The farm engaged its members in many ways and became a vibrant community over the years. Barb is an advocate for CSA and an educator for CSA farmers and the community. Barb and David retired the CSA after 24 amazing seasons. Vermont Valley continues to grow and sell certified organic seed potatoes.
Jan 03, 202026:09
My Farm Story with Barb Perkins
Barb Perkins left the city and her criminal justice degree to start farming with her husband, David, in 1994. The two of them pioneered Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) in the Midwest. Here, she shares how she got into farming and became enamored of the CSA concept, and how they grew a successful CSA at a time without email, websites, or social media.
Barb Perkins and her husband, David, ran Vermont Valley Community Farm CSA from 1994 through 2018. The farm, near Madison, Wisconsin, was one of the first CSAs in the state and one of the largest. The farm engaged its members in many ways and became a vibrant community over the years. Barb is an advocate for CSA and an educator for CSA farmers and the community. Barb and David retired the CSA after 24 amazing seasons. Vermont Valley continues to grow and sell certified organic seed potatoes.
Barb Perkins and her husband, David, ran Vermont Valley Community Farm CSA from 1994 through 2018. The farm, near Madison, Wisconsin, was one of the first CSAs in the state and one of the largest. The farm engaged its members in many ways and became a vibrant community over the years. Barb is an advocate for CSA and an educator for CSA farmers and the community. Barb and David retired the CSA after 24 amazing seasons. Vermont Valley continues to grow and sell certified organic seed potatoes.
Dec 27, 201922:07
Jen Riemer on Value-Added Meat Products
We are finishing up our series with Jen Riemer of Riemer Family Farm talking about how value-added meat products add to the farm’s business mix and help the family farm manage risk. Jen explains the challenge of finding processors to produce their value-added products, such as sausage sticks and ground turkey, and explores opportunities for more ready-to-eat meat product options for today’s busy consumers.
Jen Riemer and her family have a regenerative and diverse livestock farm selling pastured, farm-fresh meat and eggs directly from Riemer Family Farm in south-central Wisconsin. Jen's family is transitioning the farm from a commodity beef and crop operation to 100% grass-fed beef and lamb as well as pastured poultry and hogs. She focuses on regenerating soil and bringing diverse ecology back to the land.
Jen Riemer and her family have a regenerative and diverse livestock farm selling pastured, farm-fresh meat and eggs directly from Riemer Family Farm in south-central Wisconsin. Jen's family is transitioning the farm from a commodity beef and crop operation to 100% grass-fed beef and lamb as well as pastured poultry and hogs. She focuses on regenerating soil and bringing diverse ecology back to the land.
Dec 20, 201915:37
Caring for Land for the Long Game
What can you do now to improve your land for years to come? Listen in as Jen Riemer of Riemer Family Farm in Wisconsin explains her family's systems-based, holistic approach to nurturing the land for the long term. Livestock and cover crops play big roles! We discuss our appreciation for diversity and how our nurturing instincts serve us well in farming.
Jen Riemer and her family have a regenerative and diverse livestock farm selling pastured, farm-fresh meat and eggs directly from Riemer Family Farm in south-central Wisconsin. Jen’s family is transitioning the farm from a commodity beef and crop operation to 100% grass-fed beef and lamb as well as pastured poultry and hogs. She focuses on regenerating soil and bringing diverse ecology back to the land.
Jen Riemer and her family have a regenerative and diverse livestock farm selling pastured, farm-fresh meat and eggs directly from Riemer Family Farm in south-central Wisconsin. Jen’s family is transitioning the farm from a commodity beef and crop operation to 100% grass-fed beef and lamb as well as pastured poultry and hogs. She focuses on regenerating soil and bringing diverse ecology back to the land.
Dec 13, 201910:41
Cover Crops for Livestock Forage with Jen Riemer
We’re back with Jen Riemer to talk about the importance of diversity on the farm. Jen shares how she uses cover crops to build healthy soil, and adds value/fertility by using cover crops as livestock forage—wins all around!
Jen Riemer and her family have a regenerative and diverse livestock farm selling pastured, farm-fresh meat and eggs directly from Riemer Family Farm in south-central Wisconsin. Jen’s family is transitioning the farm from a commodity beef and crop operation to 100% grass-fed beef and lamb as well as pastured poultry and hogs. She focuses on regenerating soil and bringing diverse ecology back to the land.
Jen Riemer and her family have a regenerative and diverse livestock farm selling pastured, farm-fresh meat and eggs directly from Riemer Family Farm in south-central Wisconsin. Jen’s family is transitioning the farm from a commodity beef and crop operation to 100% grass-fed beef and lamb as well as pastured poultry and hogs. She focuses on regenerating soil and bringing diverse ecology back to the land.
Dec 06, 201913:59
Jen Riemer: My Farm Story
Today, Jen Riemer shares how she, a former vegetarian, grew into a passionate rancher and steward of the land. Hear her inspiring story of moving from the Chicago suburbs and a regular paycheck to her husband’s family farm 10 years ago, and how her first MOSES Conference gave her the confidence to take that leap.
Jen Riemer and her family have a regenerative and diverse livestock farm selling pastured, farm-fresh meat and eggs directly from Riemer Family Farm in south-central Wisconsin. Jen's family is transitioning the farm from a commodity beef and crop operation to 100% grass-fed beef and lamb as well as pastured poultry and hogs. She focuses on regenerating soil and bringing diverse ecology back to the land.
Jen Riemer and her family have a regenerative and diverse livestock farm selling pastured, farm-fresh meat and eggs directly from Riemer Family Farm in south-central Wisconsin. Jen's family is transitioning the farm from a commodity beef and crop operation to 100% grass-fed beef and lamb as well as pastured poultry and hogs. She focuses on regenerating soil and bringing diverse ecology back to the land.
Nov 26, 201921:34
Farm Law: How Diversifying Your Business Impacts Labor Rules
We wrap up our farm law series with this bonus episode with Rachel Armstrong as she helps us navigate employment rules when we venture outside of farming into value-added products, on-farm food service, offering classes, etc. While this diversification is great for spreading risk over a broad range of enterprises, it changes the rules for paying employees. Hear Rachel's recommendations to help you avoid issues.
Rachel is the founder and Executive Director of Farm Commons, a nonprofit that empowers farmers to understand and create their own solutions to business law challenges in an ecosystem of support. She strives to make farm law approachable and relevant to every farmer.
Rachel is the founder and Executive Director of Farm Commons, a nonprofit that empowers farmers to understand and create their own solutions to business law challenges in an ecosystem of support. She strives to make farm law approachable and relevant to every farmer.
Nov 22, 201915:12
Farm Help—Legal Aspects of Hired Hands & Volunteers
Today, Rachel Armstrong helps us understand "human risk" on our specialty crop farms. Learn about the different categories of labor, from volunteers to paid staff, and how to navigate legally and safely for everyone.
Rachel is the founder and Executive Director of Farm Commons, a nonprofit that empowers farmers to understand and create their own solutions to business law challenges in an ecosystem of support. She strives to make farm law approachable and relevant to every farmer.
Rachel is the founder and Executive Director of Farm Commons, a nonprofit that empowers farmers to understand and create their own solutions to business law challenges in an ecosystem of support. She strives to make farm law approachable and relevant to every farmer.
Nov 15, 201912:25
Rachel Armstrong on Marketing Value-Added Products
We continue our series with Rachel Armstrong of Farm Commons talking about empowering women farmers to take charge of our businesses and manage risk effectively. Farming is unpredictable with variables we cannot control. Rachel helps us navigate and plan for what we can control, with a particular focus today on direct marketing value-added products.
Rachel is the founder and Executive Director of Farm Commons, a nonprofit organization that exists to empower farmers to understand and create their own solutions to business law challenges, in an ecosystem of support. She strives to make farm law approachable and relevant to every farmer.
Rachel is the founder and Executive Director of Farm Commons, a nonprofit organization that exists to empower farmers to understand and create their own solutions to business law challenges, in an ecosystem of support. She strives to make farm law approachable and relevant to every farmer.
Nov 08, 201916:01