by Dairy Gal Val
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 [email protected] or inquire on www.dairygalval.com
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🇺🇲
Publishing Since
5/19/2023
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April 30, 2025
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$ Title: Cow Pots & Courage: Amanda Freund on Farming, Innovation, and Shark Tank Host: Val Lavigne @DairyGalVal www.dairygalval.com Guest: Amanda Freund Instagram @cowpotsgirl Others @CowPots http://www.cowpots.com "Dirty Jobs" Poo Pot Maker (TV Episode 2007) CowPots on TV - YouTube https://allsharktankproducts.com/shark-tank-products-home/cowpots-biodegradable-pots/ Summary In this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne interviews Amanda Freund, a third-generation dairy farmer and entrepreneur known for her innovative Cow Pots business. Amanda shares her journey growing up on the family farm, the evolution of their diversified operations, and the introduction of robotic milking technology. She discusses the challenges and successes of launching Cow Pots, a product made from cow manure, and her recent experience on Shark Tank, where she sought to expand her business further. The conversation highlights the importance of sustainability, innovation, and the unique challenges faced by modern dairy farmers. In this engaging conversation, Amanda shares her journey of preparing for and participating in Shark Tank, highlighting the challenges she faced, the support from her family, and the unique experience of pitching her product, Cow Pots. She discusses the emotional rollercoaster of waiting for confirmation about her appearance on the show, the creative solutions she found for her pitch, and the impact of the show on her business. Amanda also reflects on the importance of community support, the reality of business deals, and the ongoing efforts to maintain customer engagement post-show. The conversation wraps up with rapid-fire questions that reveal more about Amanda's personality and insights on overcoming imposter syndrome. Takeaways Amanda Freund is a third-generation dairy farmer. The family farm has diversified into multiple businesses. Robotic milking technology has improved cow comfort and efficiency. Cow Pots are made from cow manure, showcasing sustainability. The journey to market for Cow Pots took years of development. Amanda's first job after college was selling Cow Pots. The business faced skepticism initially but gained traction over time. Dirty Jobs featured Amanda's farm, boosting visibility. The company has expanded distribution nationally. Amanda's Shark Tank experience was unexpected but ultimately rewarding. Preparation for Shark Tank is extensive and requires serious commitment. Family support plays a crucial role in entrepreneurial journeys. Unique marketing strategies can make a pitch memorable. The emotional aspect of waiting for show confirmation is significant. Community involvement can enhance brand visibility and impact. The reality of deals on Shark Tank can differ from expectations. Post-show sales can see a significant uptick, but sustainability is key. Engaging with customers is essential for long-term success. Imposter syndrome is a common challenge for entrepreneurs. Courage can manifest in small, everyday actions. Sound Bites "We want them to be comfortable." "We decided to make pots from manure." "I was hand moving each one of them." "We were featured on Dirty Jobs." "We made 38 million units." "I had a lot of mixed feelings." "I shipped them a box of poo." "I had no idea how animated she was." "I was so proud to represent my brand." "It was a handshake deal." "I spend too much money on Google Ads." "Courage is not always a roar." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Amanda Freund and Her Farm Journey 03:02 The Evolution of the Family Farm 06:05 Innovations in Dairy Farming 09:05 The Birth of Cow Pots 11:55 The Shark Tank Experience 32:24 The Journey to Shark Tank: Preparation and Challenges 37:51 Family Support and the Emotional Rollercoaster 40:30 The Cow Suit: A Unique Stage Presence 43:28 The Reality of Deals: Behind the Scenes of Shar
April 23, 2025
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$ Title: From Cows to Cut Flowers: Jamie Derr’s Journey in Dairy & Floral Farming Host: Val Lavigne @DairyGalVal www.dairygalval.com Guest: Jamie Derr Instagram @Valleyhomemadeandhomegrown www.valleyhomemadeandhomegrown.com Summary In this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne speaks with Jamie Derr, a lifelong dairy farmer who shares her journey from growing up on a dairy farm to starting her own dairy business with her husband. Jamie discusses the challenges and joys of farming, the importance of family traditions, and the mental health struggles that come with the ups and downs of the dairy industry. She emphasizes the significance of following one's passion and the resilience required to navigate the complexities of farming life. In this conversation, the speaker shares her journey of starting a flower farming business alongside dairy farming. She discusses the challenges and successes of growing her business, innovative marketing strategies, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation also delves into family dynamics, highlighting how her children are involved in the farm and their individual interests. The speaker reflects on personal growth, aspirations, and the significance of maintaining a positive mindset in the face of challenges. Takeaways Jamie grew up on a dairy farm and has always been involved in agriculture. Transitioning from dairy farming to horticulture was a significant change for Jamie's family. Jamie found her calling in farming during her college years. The couple faced skepticism when they decided to start their own dairy farm. Financial struggles are a common reality in the dairy industry. Family traditions play a crucial role in their farming lifestyle. Mental health challenges are prevalent among farmers, especially during tough times. The couple brainstormed ways to diversify their income through flowers. Jamie emphasizes the importance of community support in farming. Farming is not just a job; it's a way of life that brings joy despite challenges. The flower business started due to a lack of local competition. Low input costs were crucial for starting the flower business. Selling pre-made bouquets simplified the sales process at markets. Community engagement through events has been beneficial for the business. Teaching flower arranging classes has become a rewarding aspect of the business. Family involvement in farming varies among children, reflecting their individual passions. It's important to encourage children to pursue their own interests, even if they differ from farming. Jamie finds joy in welcoming others to the farm and sharing knowledge about agriculture. Personal growth is tied to the journey of running a business and overcoming challenges. Maintaining a positive mindset is essential for personal and professional success. Sound Bites "You grieve your herd leaving." "It's definitely not for the faint of heart." "I just knew like I need to farm." "I'm ready to start our dairy." "We wanted our own thing to not forever work." "The goal here isn't to make money." "It's all about how you're looking at it." "I struggled with anxiety." "It was all meant to be and it just had to play out." "Where you tend to rose, a thistle cannot grow." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jamie's Journey 02:53 Growing Up on a Dairy Farm 06:00 Transitioning from Dairy to Horticulture 08:55 Finding a Path in Agriculture 11:48 Love and Partnership in Farming 14:46 Starting Their Own Dairy Farm 18:12 Navigating Early Challenges in Dairy Farming 20:52 The Reality of Dairy Farming 24:12 Family Traditions and Farming Life 26:52 Overcoming Financial Struggles 30:11 The Future of Farming and Family 34:42 Innovative Marketing and Community Engagement 39:07 Family Dynamics in Farming 46:21 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations
April 16, 2025
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$ Title: From Dairy Farm to Photography: A Chat With Andrea Haines Host: Val Lavigne @DairyGalVal www.dairygalval.com Guest: Andrea Haines Instagram and Facebook @ALHwordandimage www.alhwordandimage.com Summary In this episode of the Dairy Hour Podcast, host Val Lavigne interviews Andrea Haines, a Maryland-based agriculture photographer and dairy farmer. Andrea shares her journey from growing up on a dairy farm to pursuing a career in agriculture journalism and photography. She discusses her education, experiences in Wisconsin, and the importance of community involvement through programs like 4-H. Andrea also highlights the balance between her photography business and farm life, emphasizing the joy of capturing candid moments on the farm. In this engaging conversation, the speakers share personal anecdotes about family traditions, the joy of gardening, and the fun of board games. They discuss their favorite comfort foods, travel experiences, and the character-building lessons learned from farm life. The conversation wraps up with inspiring quotes and the importance of kindness in everyday interactions. Takeaways Andrea Haines is an agriculture photographer and dairy farmer. She grew up on a dairy farm in Maryland. Andrea pursued a degree in dairy science and communications. She interned at Farm Shine newspaper, which shaped her career. Moving to Wisconsin allowed her to work for Hordes Dairymen. Family support is crucial in her career and personal life. Andrea started her photography business focusing on agriculture. She enjoys capturing candid moments on farms. Balancing photography and farm duties is a priority for her. Community involvement through 4-H is important to Andrea. Family traditions create lasting memories. Gardening is a therapeutic hobby. Board games foster family bonding and fun. Comfort food often brings joy and nostalgia. Traveling to national parks offers unique experiences. Working with cattle teaches patience and character. Kindness can significantly impact someone's day. Photography captures moments that tell stories. Sharing experiences can strengthen relationships. Embracing nature can enhance mental well-being. Sound Bites "I love doing candid photography." "I consider myself full time." "I grew up loving that." "I love Culver's too." "I was jumping up and down." "My favorite childhood memory..." "I'm a happy board game player." "Moving cattle builds character." "I love to photograph cows." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Andrea Haynes and Her Background 03:10 Growing Up on a Dairy Farm 05:53 Education and Career Path in Agriculture 08:48 Transitioning to Professional Life 12:09 Moving to Wisconsin and Career Development 14:58 Returning to Maryland and Family Life 18:04 Starting a Photography Business 21:12 Balancing Photography and Farm Life 24:06 Fun Rapid Fire Questions 27:52 Nostalgic Traditions and Family Memories 32:33 The Joy of Gardening and Nature 34:40 Board Games and Family Fun 37:21 Comfort Foods and Sweet Treats 39:01 Travel Adventures and National Parks 43:29 Character Building Through Farm Life 44:54 Inspiring Quotes and Kindness
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Mary Pat Sass + Jena Ochsner
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