Grit and Grace in the Heartland: Women In Agriculture

In this episode, Mary and Leah talk about the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, reflecting on the grit, grace, humor, generosity, and integrity that made her such a remarkable woman. From her humble Appalachian beginnings to her incredible success, Dolly never forgot where she came from. They talk about her commitment to literacy, her generosity toward her community, her ability to stand up for herself with grace, and the example she set for women everywhere. They also share some lighter memories and observations about Dolly, her music, her career, and the authenticity that always seemed to shine through. The biggest takeaway? What would Dolly do? Maybe we could all use a little more grit, a little more grace, and a lot more kindness. Have a great day, and go live like Dolly.

What happens when a dairy farmer decides to raise reindeer? Sara from Santa’s Crew LLC in Wisconsin joins Mary and Leah to talk about her unexpected journey into the world of reindeer, starting with just a few animals and growing into a busy seasonal agritourism business. Sara shares what it takes to care for reindeer, the surprising differences between reindeer and caribou, how reindeer are used around the world, and what it is like taking her reindeer to nearly 30 holiday events in a single season. She also talks about life on the dairy farm, raising young children, selling milk to a local cheese plant, and finding creative ways to bring joy and education to people through agriculture. This is a fun conversation about farming, family, entrepreneurship, and having the courage to try something a little different.

Mary and Leah catch up after an unforgettable week at the county fair. What began as an extreme heat challenge quickly turned into an overnight flash flood that threatened livestock, campers, and the fairgrounds. Leah shares the remarkable story of volunteers coming together to safely evacuate cattle in the middle of the night, the emotional highs and lows of her daughter Maggie's final 4-H fair, and the resilience shown by young exhibitors facing circumstances completely beyond their control. The conversation also explores the realities of raising livestock, how county fair livestock sales work, the lessons children learn through 4-H, and why community matters most when life takes an unexpected turn. In this episode: Surviving dangerous heat at the county fair The overnight flash flood that changed everything Volunteers stepping up to protect people and animals Maggie's final 4-H fair and the emotions that came with it Raising resilient kids through agriculture How livestock auctions and premium sales work Looking ahead to fall, new podcast guests, and cooler weather Thank you for listening to Grit and Grace in the Heartland. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who appreciates rural life, agriculture, and the power of community.

Mary and Leah chat about summer heat, local food, favorite garden vegetables, and the value of supporting local farmers. They also share exciting news about a new online community designed to bring people together to learn, connect, and share practical homesteading and agriculture knowledge. The conversation explores forgotten uses for common plants, the importance of preserving food and reducing waste, supporting small creators, and how simple acts of kindness can make a lasting difference. It is an uplifting reminder that community grows when we choose to help one another. In this episode: Why local food matters more than ever Garden harvest celebrations and favorite vegetables Edible and medicinal plants you may already have growing nearby The vision behind Mary's new online community Supporting small farms, creators, and rural communities Why kindness and encouragement are more important than ever If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who believes in the power of community. Every share helps us reach more people and continue these conversations. You can find Mary and Leah at GritAndGraceInTheHeartland.com and on Facebook at Grit and Grace in the Heartland: Women in Agriculture.

What makes farmers markets so special? Mary and Leah explore the joy of shopping local, connecting with the people who grow and create your food, and why these community gatherings have become such an important part of rural life. They also share stories about parenting, raising independent kids, summer on the farm, and the simple moments that remind us to slow down and appreciate the season. In this episode: Why farmers markets create lasting community connections The realities of being a market vendor Fresh food, local businesses, and supporting your neighbors Favorite summer memories and traditions Why slowing down helps us appreciate the beauty around us Thank you for listening to Grit and Grace in the Heartland. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves agriculture, rural life, and strong communities.

Dairy farmer Dawn Blodgett of VT Blodgett Family Farm joins us for a wide ranging conversation about agriculture, food, and the importance of asking good questions. From fresh eggs and milk myths to beef, dairy, and the realities of modern farming, this episode explores how misinformation shapes the way we think about our food. We also discuss regulations, food waste, consumer education, and why agriculture needs more voices at the decision making table. Connect with Dawn on Facebook at VT Blodgett Family Farm.

This week, Mary and Leah welcome Shelby of Echoed Roots, a southwest Nebraska flower farmer, mom, and entrepreneur. Shelby shares how flowers became part of her healing journey after motherhood, how she's building a local flower business, and why growing beauty is about so much more than bouquets. In this episode: Shelby's journey from floral design to flower farming Raising three young daughters while building a business Growing flowers in Nebraska's challenging climate Supporting rural communities through local agriculture Exciting news about Shelby's new NRCS high tunnel grant Learn more about Shelby and Echoed Roots on Facebook. You can find Grit and Grace in the Heartland at gritandgraceintheheartland.com and on Facebook. Market Entry Fund If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves rural life and agriculture.

Leah and Mary tackle an issue that deserves every livestock owner's attention, the return of the New World screwworm. While many people assume this is only a concern for ranchers in the southern United States, the conversation explains why every animal owner, from cattle producers to pet owners, should understand the risks and know what to watch for. Leah shares why biosecurity matters more than ever and explains how screwworm infestations differ from ordinary maggots. They discuss prevention, early detection, treatment options, and why awareness is the most powerful tool available. The conversation also explores the importance of personal responsibility, critical thinking, and staying informed without becoming overwhelmed by constant headlines. From wildlife observations to AI generated misinformation, Leah and Mary encourage listeners to pay attention to what is happening in their own communities while protecting their peace of mind. In this episode Why the New World screwworm has become a growing concern How screwworms affect livestock, pets, and wildlife Why biosecurity practices matter for every animal owner Prevention versus treatment and what producers should know The role of veterinarians and reporting suspected cases How ranchers are working to protect animal welfare every day Why consumers should remain confident in the safety of the U.S. food supply The importance of questioning sensational headlines and misinformation Personal responsibility, community awareness, and practical preparedness Wildlife observations, including black bears and cougars in Minnesota Finding hope, staying grounded, and focusing on what you can control Key Takeaways Awareness saves lives. Regularly checking livestock, pets, and wildlife can help identify problems before they become widespread. Biosecurity is everyone's responsibility. Preventing the spread of disease and parasites requires vigilance from producers, pet owners, veterinarians, and the public. The U.S. food supply remains safe. Animals showing signs of screwworm infestation do not enter the commercial food chain. Not every alarming headline tells the full story. Verify information through trusted sources and avoid making decisions based on sensational claims or AI generated misinformation. When challenges arise, focus on practical action. Small steps taken by many people make a meaningful difference. Thank you for listening to Grit and Grace in the Heartland. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who cares about agriculture, animal health, and preserving our rural way of life.

In this episode of Grit and Grace in the Heartland, Mary and Leah begin with a seasonal check-in from the ranch and farm. From branding calves and wrapping up calving season to hopes for much-needed rainfall, they share a glimpse into late spring life in rural America. The conversation then shifts to a topic Leah has wanted to tackle for a long time: artificial intelligence and the rapid expansion of AI data centers across the United States. Growing up in agriculture, "AI" meant artificial insemination. Today, it means artificial intelligence, and both hosts have serious questions about how quickly AI infrastructure is expanding and what the long-term consequences may be. Topics discussed include: • The proposed PEACE Act in Oregon and concerns about its impact on agriculture and livestock production • The growing number of AI data centers being built across the country • Environmental concerns surrounding data centers, including water consumption, energy use, electronic waste, and noise pollution • Erin Brockovich's involvement in tracking and raising awareness about data center development • Questions surrounding local control, zoning regulations, and whether communities truly have a voice in approving large projects • The strain that data centers may place on water resources, especially in regions dependent on aquifers • The potential costs of infrastructure upgrades and who ultimately pays for them • Privacy concerns related to AI, data collection, and the storage of personal information • The growing use of AI in customer service, healthcare, and other industries • Frustrations with automated systems that replace human interaction • The impact of technology on jobs, social connection, and community life • Whether convenience has come at a greater cost than many people realize Mary and Leah reflect on how technology has changed daily life, from online shopping and digital medical records to automated customer service systems. While both acknowledge the benefits that technology can provide, they challenge listeners to consider the environmental, economic, and social costs that may accompany these advances. The episode closes with a broader discussion about innovation, unintended consequences, and whether society is asking enough questions before embracing major technological changes. Questions for Listeners • What role should local communities have in approving large-scale data center projects? • Are the conveniences of AI worth the environmental and infrastructure costs? • How comfortable are you with the amount of personal information stored digitally? • Have automated systems improved your life, or made everyday tasks more frustrating? • What technologies have genuinely improved your quality of life, and which ones have not? Thank you for listening to Grit and Grace in the Heartland. If this conversation resonated with you, share the episode with a friend and continue the discussion in your own community.

Episode Show Notes: The Fit Advocate with Andrea This week, Mary and Leah welcome Andrea, better known online as That Fit Agvocate, for a conversation about agriculture, fitness, mental health, family farming, and finding purpose when life takes an unexpected turn. The episode begins with a discussion about much-needed rainfall across parts of Nebraska and Minnesota, along with reflections on drought, gratitude, wildlife, and the emotional impact of receiving blessings that are completely beyond our control. Andrea shares her journey from growing up in rural Minnesota with dreams of becoming a large animal veterinarian to facing the disappointment of not being accepted into veterinary school. What felt like a devastating setback ultimately led her toward a new path that combined her passion for agriculture, fitness, and education. Today, Andrea works alongside her family on a diversified farm that includes cow-calf cattle, a feedlot, corn, and soybeans. She also runs a successful online fitness coaching business focused primarily on women in agriculture and rural communities. Topics discussed in this episode include: • The challenges of getting into veterinary school and the growing shortage of large animal veterinarians across rural America • How personal setbacks can create unexpected opportunities • Building a social media platform that educates consumers about modern agriculture • Working successfully in a multi-generational family farming operation • Finding strengths within a family business and allowing each person to focus on what they do best • Balancing entrepreneurship with life on the farm • Functional fitness for farmers and ranchers • The connection between physical health, mental health, and resilience • Managing stress during difficult agricultural seasons • Creating supportive communities for women in agriculture • The importance of maintaining hobbies, interests, and identities beyond the farm • Helping consumers reconnect with agriculture and understand where their food comes from • New efforts to bring people onto the farm through pumpkin patches, flower fields, and educational experiences Andrea also shares why helping women become stronger, healthier, and more confident is about much more than exercise. Her work focuses on creating longevity, improving quality of life, and providing tools to navigate the unique stresses that come with rural living and agricultural careers. Throughout the conversation, Mary, Leah, and Andrea explore the importance of community, connection, and telling agriculture's story in an authentic way. Connect with Andrea You can find Andrea, That Fit Agvocate, on: • Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • TikTok Search for "That Fit Agvocate" on your favorite platform to follow her farming, fitness, and advocacy journey. Memorable Moments "Sometimes life is weird. You pray, you ask, you hope for a blessing, something that you need. When it's a gift given to you that you couldn't pay for, and it's just given to you and you receive it, the feelings of gratitude are overwhelming." "Your health is your wealth." "We need all of us healthy and able." "People want to be connected to where their food comes from." Thank you for listening to Grit and Grace in the Heartland. Until next time, have some grit and grace.

In this episode of Grit and Grace in the Heartland, Mary and Leah welcome McKenzie of Arrow M Cattle Company for a wide ranging conversation about ranching, cattle production, consumer education, social media advocacy, and resilience after a life changing accident. The episode begins with a discussion about the end of the school year, gardening season, and the challenges of weather across the Midwest and Great Plains. From frost damaged cucumber plants in Minnesota to drought concerns in Nebraska, Mary and Leah share what is happening on their farms and ranches. McKenzie then joins the conversation and shares her journey into agriculture. Raised in North Mississippi in a multi generation cattle family, she earned a degree in beef cattle production from Mississippi State University before heading west to begin her career in the cattle industry. Her path took her through feedyard management with JBS Five Rivers, heifer development programs in Oklahoma, and eventually to building her own direct to consumer beef business through Arrow M Cattle Company. Topics discussed in this episode include: • Growing up in a cattle family and learning from generations of producers • Working in commercial cattle feeding and the lessons learned from experienced cattlemen • Why feedyards are located in certain regions of the country • The growth of direct to consumer beef sales and the rise of consumer interest in where food comes from • Common misconceptions about beef production and cattle management • Bridging the gap between producers and consumers through education • Using research and science based information to answer questions about cattle care • The importance of respectful conversations within agriculture • Challenges facing ranch labor and agricultural employment • The value of mentorship and lifelong learning in the cattle industry • Women in agriculture and navigating traditionally male dominated spaces • The role social media can play in educating both producers and consumers McKenzie also shares the story of a devastating horse related accident that resulted in severe facial injuries and a traumatic brain injury. She discusses her recovery journey, advocating for her own medical care, and the creative writing projects that have become part of her healing process. Throughout the conversation, Leah highlights Mczkenzie's ability to create meaningful discussions around difficult industry topics while helping producers feel seen, heard, and represented. Connect with McKenzie Follow Arrow M Cattle Company on Facebook for educational content, cattle industry discussions, ranch life updates, and information about direct to consumer beef sales. Connect with Grit and Grace in the Heartland Follow Grit and Grace in the Heartland Women in Agriculture on Facebook and visit GritAndGraceInTheHeartland.com for more episodes, stories, and conversations celebrating rural life, agriculture, and the women who help sustain it. Thank you for listening. Until next time, have some grit and grace.

In this episode of Grit and Grace in the Heartland, Mary and Leah dive into two major issues impacting rural America, agriculture, conservation, and civic engagement. The conversation begins with spring on the prairie, asparagus patches, rhubarb harvests, wild morels, and the deep connection rural families have to the land and their food sources. From there, the discussion turns toward two pressing topics: Minnesota Boundary Waters Mining Debate Mary shares concerns about the decision to overturn a decades long mining ban near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Topics discussed include: Copper and nickel mining proposals near protected wilderness Potential impacts on water quality and wildlife Concerns over acid mine drainage Tourism and outdoor recreation economies The importance of preserving natural resources for future generations How environmental decisions affect communities far beyond one state The conversation also touches on the headwaters of the Mississippi River and the broader responsibility Americans share in protecting land and water resources. Oregon PEACE Act and Agriculture Concerns Leah explains the proposed PEACE Act initiative in Oregon and why many farmers and ranchers are concerned about its potential effects on agriculture and rural life. Topics include: Proposed restrictions involving livestock production Concerns about hunting and fishing regulations Artificial insemination in animal agriculture The economic and emotional impacts on farm families Outside funding and political influence Fear of similar measures spreading to other states Civic Engagement and Responsibility Throughout the episode, Mary and Leah reflect on: Low voter turnout and political disengagement The importance of researching issues independently Volunteering and community service Respectful disagreement and critical thinking Advocacy versus silence Stewardship of land, water, and local communities They also discuss the emotional weight of speaking publicly about controversial issues while trying to create space for thoughtful conversation rather than division. Other Topics Mentioned Wildfire concerns across the Midwest and Plains Drought conditions affecting multiple states Recycling and local environmental efforts Mental health and public discourse Multi generational community involvement Gratitude, prayer, and finding hope during difficult times Memorable Takeaways “Water is life.” “We don’t expect you to think like we do. We expect you to think.” “Little ripples create big waves.” “Be a good neighbor. Be a good citizen.” Connect With Us Thank you for listening to Grit and Grace in the Heartland. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend and continue the conversation in your own community. Until next time, have some grit and grace.