The Agri-Tourist, My Journey Back to Agriculture Fri, 13 Mar 2026 21:10:40 -0400 https://heartbeetfarms.com/the-agri-tourist-podcast/ en-us © 2026 The Agri-Tourist, My Journey Back to Agriculture yes ed70d383-4c66-5fdf-b74f-2caa0da135c2 Jennifer Ross episodic false Agritourism involves travel, entertainment, adventure and agriculture, but, at its core, agritourism is really about connecting and educating. Join me to learn from experienced agritourism farmers and entrepreneurs, and help me build my future farm strategy.   

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) agriculture, organic farming, agritourism, agritourist, farming, entrepreneur, farmer, travel, experiential travel, adventure travel, organic agriculture, organic Jennifer Ross https://storage.buzzsprout.com/02u8fns2103jp4aev3tgtobluvcc?.jpg The Agri-Tourist, My Journey Back to Agriculture https://heartbeetfarms.com/the-agri-tourist-podcast/ In a Sea of Blacktop, They Chose Purple: The Lavender Pivot That Saved Hoshyla Farms In a Sea of Blacktop, They Chose Purple: The Lavender Pivot That Saved Hoshyla Farms Send a text

When I think about my conversation with Susan and Nicole Asendorf of Hoshyla Farms, what stays with me most isn’t just the lavender — it’s the decision. The moment when selling the land felt easier… and they chose not to. On Long Island, once farmland is gone, it’s gone. Hearing Nicole say, “Once you sell something, you cannot get it back,” carried a weight that anyone connected to agriculture truly understands. This wasn’t just a business pivot. It was a stand for legacy.

What moved me even more was the dynamic of three women and an 84-year-old grandfather working side by side to reinvent their family farm. There was honesty in the conversation — about fear, about learning curves, about irrigation powered by generators and watering plants from the back of a tractor. It wasn’t polished. It was real. And that’s what preserving farmland actually looks like.

This episode reminded me that agritourism isn’t just about events or aesthetics — it’s about connection. Connection to land, to family, to community. Hoshyla Farms isn’t just growing lavender; they’re cultivating continuity. And in a region where blacktop spreads faster than crops, that matters more than ever.

Hoshyla Farms
2026 Lavendar Festival
Hoshyla Farms Instagram

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

When I think about my conversation with Susan and Nicole Asendorf of Hoshyla Farms, what stays with me most isn’t just the lavender — it’s the decision. The moment when selling the land felt easier… and they chose not to. On Long Island, once farmland is gone, it’s gone. Hearing Nicole say, “Once you sell something, you cannot get it back,” carried a weight that anyone connected to agriculture truly understands. This wasn’t just a business pivot. It was a stand for legacy.

What moved me even more was the dynamic of three women and an 84-year-old grandfather working side by side to reinvent their family farm. There was honesty in the conversation — about fear, about learning curves, about irrigation powered by generators and watering plants from the back of a tractor. It wasn’t polished. It was real. And that’s what preserving farmland actually looks like.

This episode reminded me that agritourism isn’t just about events or aesthetics — it’s about connection. Connection to land, to family, to community. Hoshyla Farms isn’t just growing lavender; they’re cultivating continuity. And in a region where blacktop spreads faster than crops, that matters more than ever.

Hoshyla Farms
2026 Lavendar Festival
Hoshyla Farms Instagram

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Susan Asendorf/Nicole Asendorf Buzzsprout-18756155 Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400 3506 family farm, farm, farming, lavendar, long island, manorville, agritourism, lavender picking, upick, pick your own, lavendar festival, agriculture, land preservation 2 88 full false Planting Big Ideas: When a Nonprofit Leader Thinks Like a CEO Planting Big Ideas: When a Nonprofit Leader Thinks Like a CEO Send a text

When I first interviewed Giany Guedjo, the Executive Director of Carolina Human Reinvestment, in Episode 43, we talked about faith, food security, and the early days of building a community garden rooted in purpose. In this catch-up conversation, I found something different — not just survival, but momentum. He joined me from his greenhouse on a cold morning, surrounded by vibrant greens and reblooming orchids rescued from grocery store discard piles. That image felt symbolic. What he’s building is about second chances — for land, for food, for families.

Since we last spoke, his organization raised $96,000 at a farm-to-table fundraiser and paid off their $350,000 mortgage. But what struck me most wasn’t the financial milestone — it was his clarity. “My goal is not to end up selling from the garden,” he told me. “My hope is to keep feeding the ones that need it the most.” They’re serving nearly 200 families every two weeks, expanding school gardens, and now dreaming about a community hub with a teaching kitchen and space for nonprofits to gather.

There’s one line that stayed with me: “The kids will show up no matter what.” That’s leadership. That’s responsibility. This isn’t just a garden anymore — it’s infrastructure for community health. And as you listen to this episode, I hope you hear not just a story of growth, but a blueprint for what’s possible when agriculture is rooted in mission, dignity, and long-term vision.

Carolina Human Reinvestment

Episode 43: Giany's Leap of Faith & Focus on Growing Food Impacts South Carolina Children

Bistro 17

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

When I first interviewed Giany Guedjo, the Executive Director of Carolina Human Reinvestment, in Episode 43, we talked about faith, food security, and the early days of building a community garden rooted in purpose. In this catch-up conversation, I found something different — not just survival, but momentum. He joined me from his greenhouse on a cold morning, surrounded by vibrant greens and reblooming orchids rescued from grocery store discard piles. That image felt symbolic. What he’s building is about second chances — for land, for food, for families.

Since we last spoke, his organization raised $96,000 at a farm-to-table fundraiser and paid off their $350,000 mortgage. But what struck me most wasn’t the financial milestone — it was his clarity. “My goal is not to end up selling from the garden,” he told me. “My hope is to keep feeding the ones that need it the most.” They’re serving nearly 200 families every two weeks, expanding school gardens, and now dreaming about a community hub with a teaching kitchen and space for nonprofits to gather.

There’s one line that stayed with me: “The kids will show up no matter what.” That’s leadership. That’s responsibility. This isn’t just a garden anymore — it’s infrastructure for community health. And as you listen to this episode, I hope you hear not just a story of growth, but a blueprint for what’s possible when agriculture is rooted in mission, dignity, and long-term vision.

Carolina Human Reinvestment

Episode 43: Giany's Leap of Faith & Focus on Growing Food Impacts South Carolina Children

Bistro 17

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Giany Guedjo Buzzsprout-18748930 Mon, 02 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500 2843 community garden, food access, food security, food insecurity, plants, plant rescue, south carolina, community, school gardens, gardening, farm, farming, hydroponics 2 87 full false Food is a Bridge Between Farm and Community @ Assunta's Food is a Bridge Between Farm and Community @ Assunta's Send a text

Some conversations feel especially heartfelt because they highlight not just a business, but a person stepping fully into who they’re meant to be. That’s exactly how I felt talking with Amanda Portis, the heart behind Assunta’s Food Truck at Nourse Farm. Amanda’s journey back to her hometown and into food entrepreneurship is such a beautiful example of how passion, timing, and a little courage can come together in powerful ways.

What really moved me in this conversation is the why behind Assunta’s. Named after her great-grandmother, the food truck is rooted in family, tradition, and the belief that food is a love language. From casual comfort food at the window to her long-table farm dinners under the string lights, Amanda isn’t just cooking — she’s creating space for connection, conversation, and community.

This episode is about taking a leap, honoring where you come from, and building something that brings people together around the table. Amanda’s story is a reminder that sometimes the path forward isn’t perfectly planned — it unfolds when you say yes to an opportunity that feels just right.

Assunta's Food Truck
Nourse Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Some conversations feel especially heartfelt because they highlight not just a business, but a person stepping fully into who they’re meant to be. That’s exactly how I felt talking with Amanda Portis, the heart behind Assunta’s Food Truck at Nourse Farm. Amanda’s journey back to her hometown and into food entrepreneurship is such a beautiful example of how passion, timing, and a little courage can come together in powerful ways.

What really moved me in this conversation is the why behind Assunta’s. Named after her great-grandmother, the food truck is rooted in family, tradition, and the belief that food is a love language. From casual comfort food at the window to her long-table farm dinners under the string lights, Amanda isn’t just cooking — she’s creating space for connection, conversation, and community.

This episode is about taking a leap, honoring where you come from, and building something that brings people together around the table. Amanda’s story is a reminder that sometimes the path forward isn’t perfectly planned — it unfolds when you say yes to an opportunity that feels just right.

Assunta's Food Truck
Nourse Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Amanda Portis Buzzsprout-18704066 Mon, 23 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500 2700 farm-to-table, farm dinners, agritourism, farm, farming, food truck, farm to fork, healthy food, vegetables, local, farm setting, farm dinners, farm breakfasts 2 86 full false Pick-Your-Own Farms Are Quietly Changing the Conversation Pick-Your-Own Farms Are Quietly Changing the Conversation Send a text

There are some conversations that leave you thinking differently long after the recording ends — and my talk with Megan Neubauer was exactly that kind of conversation. I first interviewed Megan in episode # 6, and her perspective stuck with me, so reconnecting with her felt like catching up with someone whose work — and impact — has continued to grow right alongside the movement she’s helping shape.

Megan has this incredible ability to zoom out to the big picture — the future of agriculture, the health of our soils, the role consumers play in shaping food systems — while still staying deeply grounded in the everyday realities of farming. Her journey, from growing up all over the world to building a pick-your-own farm in Texas, gives her a perspective that feels both global and deeply personal. What inspires me most is how she bridges worlds: farmer and educator, grower and storyteller, realist and optimist.

This episode isn’t just about farming methods or business models. It’s about connection — to land, to food, and to each other. Megan reminds us that small farms matter, that the way we grow food has real environmental impact, and that ordinary people have more power than they think through the choices they make. I walked away from this conversation feeling hopeful, energized, and reminded why these stories — and the people living them — are so important to share.

Please enjoy my follow-up chat with Megan Neubauer!! 

Pure Land Farm
Pick Your Own Farming
Acres

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

There are some conversations that leave you thinking differently long after the recording ends — and my talk with Megan Neubauer was exactly that kind of conversation. I first interviewed Megan in episode # 6, and her perspective stuck with me, so reconnecting with her felt like catching up with someone whose work — and impact — has continued to grow right alongside the movement she’s helping shape.

Megan has this incredible ability to zoom out to the big picture — the future of agriculture, the health of our soils, the role consumers play in shaping food systems — while still staying deeply grounded in the everyday realities of farming. Her journey, from growing up all over the world to building a pick-your-own farm in Texas, gives her a perspective that feels both global and deeply personal. What inspires me most is how she bridges worlds: farmer and educator, grower and storyteller, realist and optimist.

This episode isn’t just about farming methods or business models. It’s about connection — to land, to food, and to each other. Megan reminds us that small farms matter, that the way we grow food has real environmental impact, and that ordinary people have more power than they think through the choices they make. I walked away from this conversation feeling hopeful, energized, and reminded why these stories — and the people living them — are so important to share.

Please enjoy my follow-up chat with Megan Neubauer!! 

Pure Land Farm
Pick Your Own Farming
Acres

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Megan Neubauer Buzzsprout-18669360 Mon, 16 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500 1950 agritourism, pick your own, upick, farming, farmer, farm, regenerative, sustainable, climate, food, seasonality, cooking 2 85 full false Turning Vacations Into Meaningful Global Impact with Kimberly Haley-Coleman Turning Vacations Into Meaningful Global Impact with Kimberly Haley-Coleman Send a text

Today’s guest is someone who truly redefines what it means to travel with purpose. I was so inspired learning about the work Kimberly Haley-Coleman is doing through Globe Aware, creating opportunities for everyday people to step beyond traditional tourism and step into meaningful global service. Her journey started with a simple desire to give back while traveling — and it grew into a worldwide nonprofit connecting volunteers with communities across the globe.

Through short-term, structured volunteer programs, Kimberly and her team make it possible for individuals, families, and even corporate groups to work alongside local communities on impactful projects — from improving housing conditions to supporting food security and accessibility initiatives. What I love most about her approach is that it’s not just about the work being done — it’s about cultural connection, mutual learning, and the kind of perspective that stays with you long after you come home.

I can’t wait for you to hear how this model of service travel is changing lives on both sides of the experience, and why so many people come back from these trips feeling more connected, more grateful, and more inspired to make a difference in their own communities, too.  

Globe Aware

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Today’s guest is someone who truly redefines what it means to travel with purpose. I was so inspired learning about the work Kimberly Haley-Coleman is doing through Globe Aware, creating opportunities for everyday people to step beyond traditional tourism and step into meaningful global service. Her journey started with a simple desire to give back while traveling — and it grew into a worldwide nonprofit connecting volunteers with communities across the globe.

Through short-term, structured volunteer programs, Kimberly and her team make it possible for individuals, families, and even corporate groups to work alongside local communities on impactful projects — from improving housing conditions to supporting food security and accessibility initiatives. What I love most about her approach is that it’s not just about the work being done — it’s about cultural connection, mutual learning, and the kind of perspective that stays with you long after you come home.

I can’t wait for you to hear how this model of service travel is changing lives on both sides of the experience, and why so many people come back from these trips feeling more connected, more grateful, and more inspired to make a difference in their own communities, too.  

Globe Aware

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Kimberly Haley-Coleman Buzzsprout-18624064 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500 2251 travel, tourism, agritourism, service, global, volunteer, tourist, vacation, experiential, abroad, purpose-driven, community, gardens 2 84 full false Everyday Plant Wisdom for the 'Herbal Curious' with Jeanine Davis Everyday Plant Wisdom for the 'Herbal Curious' with Jeanine Davis Send a text

Today’s guest is someone very special to me — my longtime friend, Jeanine Davis. We met years ago through our businesses and a shared love of learning, creating, and doing things a little differently. Over the years, I’ve had a front-row seat to Jeanine’s journey from busy Long Island life to a more nature-centered life in Pennsylvania, and through it all, one thing has always stayed the same: her deep curiosity about plants, wellness, and making things from scratch.

Jeanine is one of those people who doesn’t just read about herbal remedies — she grows them, forages them, studies them, and then somehow turns them into teas, oils, salves, and even beautiful botanical art. Whether we’re wandering a farmers market, cooking in her kitchen, or walking through her garden identifying “weeds” that are actually powerful plants, I’m always learning something new from her. She has a gift for making herbal knowledge feel approachable, practical, and a little bit magical.

In this conversation, we talk about how her personal health experiences sparked her interest in natural living, how moving to the Poconos gave her space to deepen that path, and how she’s now sharing what she’s learned through community workshops and classes for the “herbal curious.” I’m so excited for you to meet my friend Jeanine and explore the world of everyday herbal wisdom together.

Jeanine's Herbal Adventures
JL Davis Design - graphic design company
Herbal Oils
Ditch the Drug Store Class
Rosalee de la Forêt - Cold Class
Herbal Conference - Botanicwise
Ranch Gordo Beans
Mountain Rose Herbs 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Today’s guest is someone very special to me — my longtime friend, Jeanine Davis. We met years ago through our businesses and a shared love of learning, creating, and doing things a little differently. Over the years, I’ve had a front-row seat to Jeanine’s journey from busy Long Island life to a more nature-centered life in Pennsylvania, and through it all, one thing has always stayed the same: her deep curiosity about plants, wellness, and making things from scratch.

Jeanine is one of those people who doesn’t just read about herbal remedies — she grows them, forages them, studies them, and then somehow turns them into teas, oils, salves, and even beautiful botanical art. Whether we’re wandering a farmers market, cooking in her kitchen, or walking through her garden identifying “weeds” that are actually powerful plants, I’m always learning something new from her. She has a gift for making herbal knowledge feel approachable, practical, and a little bit magical.

In this conversation, we talk about how her personal health experiences sparked her interest in natural living, how moving to the Poconos gave her space to deepen that path, and how she’s now sharing what she’s learned through community workshops and classes for the “herbal curious.” I’m so excited for you to meet my friend Jeanine and explore the world of everyday herbal wisdom together.

Jeanine's Herbal Adventures
JL Davis Design - graphic design company
Herbal Oils
Ditch the Drug Store Class
Rosalee de la Forêt - Cold Class
Herbal Conference - Botanicwise
Ranch Gordo Beans
Mountain Rose Herbs 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross Buzzsprout-18590391 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500 3869 2 83 full false Peacefield, Revisited: How a Farm Sanctuary Grows Community, Compassion, & Resilience Peacefield, Revisited: How a Farm Sanctuary Grows Community, Compassion, & Resilience Send a text

Eighteen months after our first conversation, we revisit Peacefield Farm Sanctuary with founders John and Emma Hoel to explore how this Florida sanctuary has grown not just in size, but in depth and purpose. In that time, Peacefield welcomed a new baby, new rescued animals, and even a multigenerational family dynamic as John’s parents relocated to the farm. What emerges is a picture of Peacefield as a living ecosystem—one where family, animals, and community are deeply intertwined, and where retirement, caregiving, and stewardship find renewed meaning.

Located just outside Gainesville and close to the University of Florida, Peacefield thrives at the intersection of rural calm and college energy. Students regularly engage through volunteer days, yoga on the farm, and hands-on learning experiences that challenge traditional, productivity-driven views of animals. For future veterinarians especially, Peacefield offers a rare opportunity to care for animals whose value is inherent, not transactional—an experience that often leaves a lasting imprint well beyond logged service hours.

Community-centered agri-tourism is at the heart of Peacefield’s sustainability. From vegan holiday gatherings that offer belonging during otherwise isolating seasons, to an on-site Airbnb that funds animal care while honoring the sanctuary’s values, everything is intentionally small-scale and mission-aligned. Their intimate plant-based cooking classes—hosted inside the Hoels’ home—have proven especially transformative, inspiring lifestyle shifts, deeper connection, and a sense of shared humanity in an increasingly disconnected world.

Through stories of rescue, loss, resilience, and adaptation—from elderly animals aging peacefully to donkeys learning trust, and from hurricane prep to daily problem-solving—Peacefield illustrates what compassionate agri-tourism can truly be. Rather than scaling up, the future of Peacefield lies in doing more of what already works: shared meals, meaningful education, and genuine connection. It’s a powerful reminder that a sanctuary isn’t just a refuge for animals—it’s often a sanctuary for people, too.

Peacefield Farm Sanctuary

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Eighteen months after our first conversation, we revisit Peacefield Farm Sanctuary with founders John and Emma Hoel to explore how this Florida sanctuary has grown not just in size, but in depth and purpose. In that time, Peacefield welcomed a new baby, new rescued animals, and even a multigenerational family dynamic as John’s parents relocated to the farm. What emerges is a picture of Peacefield as a living ecosystem—one where family, animals, and community are deeply intertwined, and where retirement, caregiving, and stewardship find renewed meaning.

Located just outside Gainesville and close to the University of Florida, Peacefield thrives at the intersection of rural calm and college energy. Students regularly engage through volunteer days, yoga on the farm, and hands-on learning experiences that challenge traditional, productivity-driven views of animals. For future veterinarians especially, Peacefield offers a rare opportunity to care for animals whose value is inherent, not transactional—an experience that often leaves a lasting imprint well beyond logged service hours.

Community-centered agri-tourism is at the heart of Peacefield’s sustainability. From vegan holiday gatherings that offer belonging during otherwise isolating seasons, to an on-site Airbnb that funds animal care while honoring the sanctuary’s values, everything is intentionally small-scale and mission-aligned. Their intimate plant-based cooking classes—hosted inside the Hoels’ home—have proven especially transformative, inspiring lifestyle shifts, deeper connection, and a sense of shared humanity in an increasingly disconnected world.

Through stories of rescue, loss, resilience, and adaptation—from elderly animals aging peacefully to donkeys learning trust, and from hurricane prep to daily problem-solving—Peacefield illustrates what compassionate agri-tourism can truly be. Rather than scaling up, the future of Peacefield lies in doing more of what already works: shared meals, meaningful education, and genuine connection. It’s a powerful reminder that a sanctuary isn’t just a refuge for animals—it’s often a sanctuary for people, too.

Peacefield Farm Sanctuary

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/John & Emma Hoel Buzzsprout-18559988 Mon, 26 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500 3280 animals, sanctuary, farm, vegan, plant-based, airbnb, cooking classes, yoga, peacefield, florida, gainesville, university of florida 2 82 full true How a Student-Run School Farm Is Redefining Special Education and Life Skills How a Student-Run School Farm Is Redefining Special Education and Life Skills Send a text

I sat down with special education teacher Alanna O’Donnell to explore how urban farming, gardening, and raising chickens are transforming learning for students with significant disabilities at P177Q, the Robin Sue Ward School for Exceptional Children in Queens, New York. Alanna shares how her background in service and community work shaped a teaching philosophy rooted in empathy, real-world learning, and trust in student capability. When traditional classroom approaches fell short, she turned to hands-on, outdoor learning—starting with a school garden and eventually bringing chickens into the school community.

The conversation dives into how caring for animals became a powerful educational tool. Through daily farm routines, students developed emotional regulation, communication, life skills, and confidence—often without realizing they were “learning” in the traditional sense. Alanna describes how students counted eggs, built coops, voted to name chickens, and learned to navigate both success and failure, including thoughtful conversations around loss. These experiences provided structure, purpose, and dignity, especially for nonverbal students and those who struggled with abstract instruction.

The episode also highlights the broader impact of the program, from a student-run farm and micro-enterprise to statewide recognition at an agricultural competition—the first time special education students were invited to participate. While they didn’t win, the experience affirmed the power of inclusion, visibility, and high expectations. Alanna reflected on what this model reveals about education, food systems, and community, and why experiential, farm-based learning offers a compelling blueprint for preparing students with disabilities for life beyond the classroom.

Chicks in the City Instagram
New York Ag in the Classroom
Robin Sue Ward School for Exceptional Children
Full Blogpost about the Podcast Interview with Alanna O'Donnell

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I sat down with special education teacher Alanna O’Donnell to explore how urban farming, gardening, and raising chickens are transforming learning for students with significant disabilities at P177Q, the Robin Sue Ward School for Exceptional Children in Queens, New York. Alanna shares how her background in service and community work shaped a teaching philosophy rooted in empathy, real-world learning, and trust in student capability. When traditional classroom approaches fell short, she turned to hands-on, outdoor learning—starting with a school garden and eventually bringing chickens into the school community.

The conversation dives into how caring for animals became a powerful educational tool. Through daily farm routines, students developed emotional regulation, communication, life skills, and confidence—often without realizing they were “learning” in the traditional sense. Alanna describes how students counted eggs, built coops, voted to name chickens, and learned to navigate both success and failure, including thoughtful conversations around loss. These experiences provided structure, purpose, and dignity, especially for nonverbal students and those who struggled with abstract instruction.

The episode also highlights the broader impact of the program, from a student-run farm and micro-enterprise to statewide recognition at an agricultural competition—the first time special education students were invited to participate. While they didn’t win, the experience affirmed the power of inclusion, visibility, and high expectations. Alanna reflected on what this model reveals about education, food systems, and community, and why experiential, farm-based learning offers a compelling blueprint for preparing students with disabilities for life beyond the classroom.

Chicks in the City Instagram
New York Ag in the Classroom
Robin Sue Ward School for Exceptional Children
Full Blogpost about the Podcast Interview with Alanna O'Donnell

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Alanna O'Donnell Buzzsprout-18519932 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500 4802 life skills, special education, chickens, raising chickens, school farm, farming, farmer, farm, agriculture, eggs, autism, disabilities, 2 81 full false Building Agrihoods That Matter: Soil Health, Social Impact, and the Farmer D Perspective Building Agrihoods That Matter: Soil Health, Social Impact, and the Farmer D Perspective Send a text

He is a nationally recognized biodynamic farmer, designer, entrepreneur, author, and educator. Daron Joffe—also known as Farmer D—was introduced to me by my friend Pattie Baker, who has long been inspired by his work and his mission.

Farmer D is the author of the acclaimed book Citizen Farmers: The Biodynamic Way to Grow Healthy Food, Build Thriving Communities, and Give Back to the Earth, and for more than 25 years he has been designing and building community farms and gardens across the country.

The Citizen Farmers movement is about far more than growing healthy food. It’s about how food—and the act of growing it—can transform ourselves, our communities, and our planet. Farmer D believes that each of us has the ability to create opportunity: to grow something, to compost, and to reconnect with the land in ways that benefit us physically, mentally, and emotionally.

He also believes that thriving communities begin with a farm. In this episode, we explore the concept of agrihoods—neighborhoods intentionally designed to integrate farms into their foundation. It’s a powerful idea, and one I’m especially hopeful will continue to evolve with authenticity, inclusivity, and accessibility for people across all income levels.

Farmer D’s work is also deeply rooted in his Jewish heritage, which has meaningfully influenced many of his projects and the way he approaches land stewardship, community, and purpose.

Join me for an inspiring conversation with a true agri-entrepreneur—someone who has expanded his passion for farming in unique, far-reaching, and deeply impactful ways. Enjoy my conversation with Farmer D. 

Farmer D
Citizen Farmers
Serenbe
Coastal Roots Farm
Noah’s Ark Skirball Cultural Center

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

He is a nationally recognized biodynamic farmer, designer, entrepreneur, author, and educator. Daron Joffe—also known as Farmer D—was introduced to me by my friend Pattie Baker, who has long been inspired by his work and his mission.

Farmer D is the author of the acclaimed book Citizen Farmers: The Biodynamic Way to Grow Healthy Food, Build Thriving Communities, and Give Back to the Earth, and for more than 25 years he has been designing and building community farms and gardens across the country.

The Citizen Farmers movement is about far more than growing healthy food. It’s about how food—and the act of growing it—can transform ourselves, our communities, and our planet. Farmer D believes that each of us has the ability to create opportunity: to grow something, to compost, and to reconnect with the land in ways that benefit us physically, mentally, and emotionally.

He also believes that thriving communities begin with a farm. In this episode, we explore the concept of agrihoods—neighborhoods intentionally designed to integrate farms into their foundation. It’s a powerful idea, and one I’m especially hopeful will continue to evolve with authenticity, inclusivity, and accessibility for people across all income levels.

Farmer D’s work is also deeply rooted in his Jewish heritage, which has meaningfully influenced many of his projects and the way he approaches land stewardship, community, and purpose.

Join me for an inspiring conversation with a true agri-entrepreneur—someone who has expanded his passion for farming in unique, far-reaching, and deeply impactful ways. Enjoy my conversation with Farmer D. 

Farmer D
Citizen Farmers
Serenbe
Coastal Roots Farm
Noah’s Ark Skirball Cultural Center

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Daron Joffe (Farmer D) Buzzsprout-18482670 Mon, 12 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500 5263 agrihood, agrivillage, agricommunity, agriculture, farm, farming, CSA, biodynamic, community, sustainable, regenerative, farmer 2 80 full false Agri-Tech Meets Food Justice: Rethinking Food Access in NYC Agri-Tech Meets Food Justice: Rethinking Food Access in NYC Send a text

She’s a young, inspiring agri-entrepreneur—and the CEO and Founder of Change Food for Good. Her name is Samia, also known as Sam Lemfadli. Sam is a Brooklyn native and technologist with a deep-rooted passion for sustainable agriculture.

She founded Change Food for Good, a New York City–based nonprofit dedicated to making sustainable agricultural technology more accessible in communities affected by food insecurity. Let’s pause on that for a moment—a nonprofit dedicated to making sustainable agricultural technology more accessible to areas impacted by food insecurity.

Sam recognized that technology is a key ingredient in feeding people, and she was driven to put those tools into the hands of individuals who want to learn, create, and innovate. Through her work, Change Food for Good motivates, inspires, and trains people to understand technology, build it, and invent new agricultural solutions—especially for urban environments.

Sam saw an important need and stepped forward to fill it. To date, she has placed over 200 program graduates into jobs and continues to bridge technology and agriculture through several innovative, community-based programs.

When I speak with people like Samia, I’m truly humbled by the depth and breadth of their vision—their foresight, their drive, and their willingness to take a leap of faith in pursuit of what they believe in. It reminds me of other changemakers I’ve had the privilege to interview, like Giany, Executive Director of Carolina Human Reinvestment, or Emily Stone, founder of Uncommon Cacao, who disrupted the global cacao economy.

I think you’ll feel humbled and inspired as well. Enjoy my conversation with Samia from Change Food for Good.

Change Food for Good

The Knowledge House

Brooklyn Supported Agriculture

Chipotle Cultivate Foundation 


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

She’s a young, inspiring agri-entrepreneur—and the CEO and Founder of Change Food for Good. Her name is Samia, also known as Sam Lemfadli. Sam is a Brooklyn native and technologist with a deep-rooted passion for sustainable agriculture.

She founded Change Food for Good, a New York City–based nonprofit dedicated to making sustainable agricultural technology more accessible in communities affected by food insecurity. Let’s pause on that for a moment—a nonprofit dedicated to making sustainable agricultural technology more accessible to areas impacted by food insecurity.

Sam recognized that technology is a key ingredient in feeding people, and she was driven to put those tools into the hands of individuals who want to learn, create, and innovate. Through her work, Change Food for Good motivates, inspires, and trains people to understand technology, build it, and invent new agricultural solutions—especially for urban environments.

Sam saw an important need and stepped forward to fill it. To date, she has placed over 200 program graduates into jobs and continues to bridge technology and agriculture through several innovative, community-based programs.

When I speak with people like Samia, I’m truly humbled by the depth and breadth of their vision—their foresight, their drive, and their willingness to take a leap of faith in pursuit of what they believe in. It reminds me of other changemakers I’ve had the privilege to interview, like Giany, Executive Director of Carolina Human Reinvestment, or Emily Stone, founder of Uncommon Cacao, who disrupted the global cacao economy.

I think you’ll feel humbled and inspired as well. Enjoy my conversation with Samia from Change Food for Good.

Change Food for Good

The Knowledge House

Brooklyn Supported Agriculture

Chipotle Cultivate Foundation 


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Samia Lemfadli Buzzsprout-18445746 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500 2239 agriculture, agri-tech, technology, food access, food security, food insecurity, food justice, urban agriculture, job training, workforce development, hydroponics, NYC, sustainable, non profit, 2 79 full false From Puffballs to Public Programs With Mushroom Farmer & Forager Amanda Dye From Puffballs to Public Programs With Mushroom Farmer & Forager Amanda Dye Send a text

Her business is called Mandy’s Mushrooms - her name is Amanda Dye - and she is passionate about making the kingdom of Fungi more accessible to the general public through mushroom education.  

Mushrooms are mysterious to me.  The more I read about  mushrooms and the more the world learns about mushrooms, the more we learn about the significant impact they have on controlling - actually managing and overseeing is probably the better word - managing and overseeing nature.  

There is so much you can do in the kitchen with mushrooms, and there are so many mushroom varieties to experiment with.  Many people say that they don’t like mushrooms but I challenge you to try a recipe that contains some fresh, locally grown mushrooms- I think you might just change your mind. 

And then there are all the medicinal properties of mushrooms. That’s another whole world to explore.

I have not gone on a mushroom forage as of yet - but it is something I intend on doing in the near future - maybe with Amanda at her new property in NY which we discuss!  

Amanda is a young woman with a passion for mushroom agriculture - mycology - and I love people that are passionate about agriculture.  I get very excited for all the amazing things that Amanda is doing now and for all the amazing things that she will create in the future.  I hope you share in my excitement as we explore the world of mushrooms  - aka mycology!

Mandy's Mushrooms

Worcester Common Ground (WCG)

Mushroom Observer

Inaturalist



Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Her business is called Mandy’s Mushrooms - her name is Amanda Dye - and she is passionate about making the kingdom of Fungi more accessible to the general public through mushroom education.  

Mushrooms are mysterious to me.  The more I read about  mushrooms and the more the world learns about mushrooms, the more we learn about the significant impact they have on controlling - actually managing and overseeing is probably the better word - managing and overseeing nature.  

There is so much you can do in the kitchen with mushrooms, and there are so many mushroom varieties to experiment with.  Many people say that they don’t like mushrooms but I challenge you to try a recipe that contains some fresh, locally grown mushrooms- I think you might just change your mind. 

And then there are all the medicinal properties of mushrooms. That’s another whole world to explore.

I have not gone on a mushroom forage as of yet - but it is something I intend on doing in the near future - maybe with Amanda at her new property in NY which we discuss!  

Amanda is a young woman with a passion for mushroom agriculture - mycology - and I love people that are passionate about agriculture.  I get very excited for all the amazing things that Amanda is doing now and for all the amazing things that she will create in the future.  I hope you share in my excitement as we explore the world of mushrooms  - aka mycology!

Mandy's Mushrooms

Worcester Common Ground (WCG)

Mushroom Observer

Inaturalist



Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Amanda Dye Buzzsprout-18331042 Mon, 15 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500 2586 mushrooms, farming, mycology, foraging, farm, agriculture, agritourism, tours, growing, innoculation, farmer, mushroom farmer 2 78 full false Integrity and Purpose Shaped Rashid’s Lifelong Agriculture Journey Integrity and Purpose Shaped Rashid’s Lifelong Agriculture Journey Send a text

In the forward of his book, it states: “Growing Out Loud Captures the depth, breadth, height of a life that has loved and pursued knowledge, understanding, purpose, application, and service for the benefit of all and for the fulfillment of his god-given calling.  The Food Revolutionary has truly lived well.” 

Keith Rashid Nuri is the author of Growing Out Loud, Journey of a Food Revolutionary.  I reached out to my dear friend Pattie Baker, telling her about the types of connections I wanted to make for my next set of podcast interviews - I wanted to really focus in on businesses and visionaries who are shaping agriculture - who are educating our future generation - who are tackling big food issues - and Pattie referred me to a few companies and people in her network down in Georgia. 

She linked me to a website for a non profit called Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture. The work of this organization around education, growing in an urban setting, building community, agritourism and edutoursim was extraordinary.  But I didn’t want to speak to the people in charge now - I wanted to speak to the visionary behind all of this amazing work - Keith Rashid Nuri.  Before our interview I dove into reading his book - his inspiring journey literally around the world, from attending Harvard and Umass Amherst,  to working in ag in CA, Michigan, Georgia and Alabama, and then nationally and internationally with Cargill, a Big Ag for profit company, eventually working in a pretty big position during the Clinton Administration….and  - the culmination of all of his studies, experience and travels  - creating the Truly Living Well Center for natural urban agriculture in Atlanta GA.  . 

This interview with Rashid is powerful.  It is blunt. It is telling. And it is purposeful.  Above everything that Rashid and I discussed, his integrity and sheer willingness to do what was right resonated with me the most.  I am so excited for you to listen to my conversation with Rashid and take away the learnings that resonate the most with you and your life….

The Nuri Group

The Atlanta Local Food Initiative

Chinatown - History of California's Water

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

In the forward of his book, it states: “Growing Out Loud Captures the depth, breadth, height of a life that has loved and pursued knowledge, understanding, purpose, application, and service for the benefit of all and for the fulfillment of his god-given calling.  The Food Revolutionary has truly lived well.” 

Keith Rashid Nuri is the author of Growing Out Loud, Journey of a Food Revolutionary.  I reached out to my dear friend Pattie Baker, telling her about the types of connections I wanted to make for my next set of podcast interviews - I wanted to really focus in on businesses and visionaries who are shaping agriculture - who are educating our future generation - who are tackling big food issues - and Pattie referred me to a few companies and people in her network down in Georgia. 

She linked me to a website for a non profit called Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture. The work of this organization around education, growing in an urban setting, building community, agritourism and edutoursim was extraordinary.  But I didn’t want to speak to the people in charge now - I wanted to speak to the visionary behind all of this amazing work - Keith Rashid Nuri.  Before our interview I dove into reading his book - his inspiring journey literally around the world, from attending Harvard and Umass Amherst,  to working in ag in CA, Michigan, Georgia and Alabama, and then nationally and internationally with Cargill, a Big Ag for profit company, eventually working in a pretty big position during the Clinton Administration….and  - the culmination of all of his studies, experience and travels  - creating the Truly Living Well Center for natural urban agriculture in Atlanta GA.  . 

This interview with Rashid is powerful.  It is blunt. It is telling. And it is purposeful.  Above everything that Rashid and I discussed, his integrity and sheer willingness to do what was right resonated with me the most.  I am so excited for you to listen to my conversation with Rashid and take away the learnings that resonate the most with you and your life….

The Nuri Group

The Atlanta Local Food Initiative

Chinatown - History of California's Water

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Keith Rashid Nuri Buzzsprout-18306114 Mon, 08 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500 5962 agriculture, farming, urban farming, urban agriculture, atlanta, georgia, edutourism, agritourism, farming education, agriculture education, food, local food, food distribution, food access 2 77 full false Maxine is Taking Her Dreams Seriously Maxine is Taking Her Dreams Seriously Send a text

Today’s guest is a filmmaker, community builder, and aspiring farmer who happens to be based right near me in Brooklyn — Maxine Simone Williams. Maxine uses storytelling, farming, and community engagement to illuminate how culture, food, and relationships shape our lives.

I first discovered Maxine on Instagram. I come across countless amazing farming-related posts, but Maxine — a brilliant, young, and inspiring woman — immediately caught my attention. I wanted to dig deeper into her story and her mission. She is a true wealth of resources, and what I love most is that she doesn’t just share information; she demonstrates the power of these (often free!) community resources by showing up, participating, joining in — and then sharing her experiences.

I learned so much from this interview — not only about local community offerings, but also about how a single plant, like cotton, can carry deep emotion, generational pain, and historical significance. At the same time, growing cotton today can also create space for healing, growth, and a sense of moving forward. Maxine opened my eyes to that.

I hope you enjoy this episode, and I encourage you to check out Maxine’s Instagram and YouTube. As I told her during our conversation, I can’t wait to join her one day in her community garden or on one of her NYC field trips. Enjoy my conversation with Maxine.

Maxine's Instagram
Maxine's Youtube Channel (How We Grow Series)
Leah Penniman, Farming While Black
NYC Community Compost Network - Master Compost Certificate
Maya Stansberry, Deep Routes
Dirt to Soil, Gabe Brown
Soul Fire Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Today’s guest is a filmmaker, community builder, and aspiring farmer who happens to be based right near me in Brooklyn — Maxine Simone Williams. Maxine uses storytelling, farming, and community engagement to illuminate how culture, food, and relationships shape our lives.

I first discovered Maxine on Instagram. I come across countless amazing farming-related posts, but Maxine — a brilliant, young, and inspiring woman — immediately caught my attention. I wanted to dig deeper into her story and her mission. She is a true wealth of resources, and what I love most is that she doesn’t just share information; she demonstrates the power of these (often free!) community resources by showing up, participating, joining in — and then sharing her experiences.

I learned so much from this interview — not only about local community offerings, but also about how a single plant, like cotton, can carry deep emotion, generational pain, and historical significance. At the same time, growing cotton today can also create space for healing, growth, and a sense of moving forward. Maxine opened my eyes to that.

I hope you enjoy this episode, and I encourage you to check out Maxine’s Instagram and YouTube. As I told her during our conversation, I can’t wait to join her one day in her community garden or on one of her NYC field trips. Enjoy my conversation with Maxine.

Maxine's Instagram
Maxine's Youtube Channel (How We Grow Series)
Leah Penniman, Farming While Black
NYC Community Compost Network - Master Compost Certificate
Maya Stansberry, Deep Routes
Dirt to Soil, Gabe Brown
Soul Fire Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Maxine Simone Williams Buzzsprout-18235911 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0500 3090 agriculture, farming, urban farming, cotton, NYC, new york, composting, filmaker, community, community gardens, farmer 2 76 full false I did it! I am a WWOOFer! I did it! I am a WWOOFer! Send a text

So everyone should know my good friend Pattie Baker by now…author of Round America with a Duck and most recently Round Ireland with a Duck.  Pattie has become such a dear friend and has encouraged me to continue trusting the journey…and so I have!  It was Pattie’s inspiration that made me consider WWOOFing. (World Wide opportunities on Organic Farms)  And when I thought about where I would want to WWOOF, Italy just popped into my mind….so that is where I put my energy…. researching farms throughout Italy  from the WWOOF Italy website, and ultimately connecting with Gianfranco and Nino from Orto Infesta in Marsala Sicily.

Like everything in life, we can’t know whether our WWOOFing selections will turn out the way we imagine in our minds.  Obviously we end up painting a certain picture in our minds of farming in Sicily. There is always so much to consider when selecting a WWOOfing destination.  And at some point, you have t just take the leap of faith and just go for it…and that is basically what I did during my WWOOFing journey.  

Upon returning, Pattie couldn't wait to chat with me about my adventure in Sicily. I recorded our conversation which basically was her interviewing me about my WWOOFing experience. I really loved her questions and I thought it would be a great opportunity for people to hear about my experience from a slightly different perspective.  Enjoy my conversation with a true inspiration, Pattie Baker….

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

So everyone should know my good friend Pattie Baker by now…author of Round America with a Duck and most recently Round Ireland with a Duck.  Pattie has become such a dear friend and has encouraged me to continue trusting the journey…and so I have!  It was Pattie’s inspiration that made me consider WWOOFing. (World Wide opportunities on Organic Farms)  And when I thought about where I would want to WWOOF, Italy just popped into my mind….so that is where I put my energy…. researching farms throughout Italy  from the WWOOF Italy website, and ultimately connecting with Gianfranco and Nino from Orto Infesta in Marsala Sicily.

Like everything in life, we can’t know whether our WWOOFing selections will turn out the way we imagine in our minds.  Obviously we end up painting a certain picture in our minds of farming in Sicily. There is always so much to consider when selecting a WWOOfing destination.  And at some point, you have t just take the leap of faith and just go for it…and that is basically what I did during my WWOOFing journey.  

Upon returning, Pattie couldn't wait to chat with me about my adventure in Sicily. I recorded our conversation which basically was her interviewing me about my WWOOFing experience. I really loved her questions and I thought it would be a great opportunity for people to hear about my experience from a slightly different perspective.  Enjoy my conversation with a true inspiration, Pattie Baker….

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Pattie Baker Buzzsprout-18157925 Mon, 10 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0500 5119 wwoof, wwoofer, organic, organic farm, farming, farms, organic farming, agriculture, organic ag, volunteer, agritourism, agritourist, tourist, tourism, agritour, experience, farm experience, sicily, italy, ireland 2 75 full false Immersing in Sicilian Culture with Helen Cane Tarpinian Immersing in Sicilian Culture with Helen Cane Tarpinian Send a text

This is the 2nd interview I did while in Sicily.  This interview is with a dear friend Helen Cane Tarpinian.  Helen and I reconnected recently around the same time I was researching WWOOFing farms in Italy and landed an opportunity in Marsala, Siciliy, about an hour south of Helen's Terrasini home. 

When I arrived at the Palermo Airport on Oct 11, 2025, Helen picked me up and we went back to her beautiful home in Terrasini Sicily.  The bedroom I stayed in the first night had a view of the water and of the majestic Sicilian sunset.  Mountains on one side of her home and water views on the other.  She was also steps away from jumping into the Mediterranean waters.  What a paradise.

Helen is an American living part time in Sicily. Her husband Vincenzo is from Sicily.  So, her perspective of Sicily and my small perspective from the 12 days I spent there became a conversation that I wanted to capture for the podcast.  One story that we somehow forgot to talk about in the podcast - as there were so many stories to cover - was Rossalini’s farm tour and Italian farm to table lunch  in Terrasini.  Rossolini not only has a farm - he is also growing several tropical fruits not normally grown in Siciliy such as papaya and avocado - but he is also growing coffee.  Of course I had to ask about cacao - and he actually did try to grow it, but they were hit with a frost and it didnt’ survive….but he is determined to try again!  I definitely want to connect him with Jeff from Moka Origins - not only about the cacao but also the coffee!!

The farm tour was amazing - we tasted our way through - and then we sat down for a real authentic Italian farm to table meal - 3 courses - plus wine…and more wine…and an after dinner cocktail made from passion fruit grown at the farm - accompanied by authentic italian music and singing….Although I knew few words….i could feel the sense of family, connectedness and joy during this festive gathering.

So Join Helen and I as we explore my first few days and last few days in Siciliy - which were filled with more family, more delicious meals, visits to historic city streets, markets and churches, hikes, majestic scenery, gelato, cannoli and much love and connection.  It was amazing and unforgettable.

A Special thank you to Helen, Vincenzo, and Anthony for graciously welcoming me into their home and making me a part of the family!   This is jen ross, your agritourist podcast host.  Enjoy my interview with Helen from Terrasini Sicily.  If you enjoy the podcast, subscribe, share and comment!  Ciao! 


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

This is the 2nd interview I did while in Sicily.  This interview is with a dear friend Helen Cane Tarpinian.  Helen and I reconnected recently around the same time I was researching WWOOFing farms in Italy and landed an opportunity in Marsala, Siciliy, about an hour south of Helen's Terrasini home. 

When I arrived at the Palermo Airport on Oct 11, 2025, Helen picked me up and we went back to her beautiful home in Terrasini Sicily.  The bedroom I stayed in the first night had a view of the water and of the majestic Sicilian sunset.  Mountains on one side of her home and water views on the other.  She was also steps away from jumping into the Mediterranean waters.  What a paradise.

Helen is an American living part time in Sicily. Her husband Vincenzo is from Sicily.  So, her perspective of Sicily and my small perspective from the 12 days I spent there became a conversation that I wanted to capture for the podcast.  One story that we somehow forgot to talk about in the podcast - as there were so many stories to cover - was Rossalini’s farm tour and Italian farm to table lunch  in Terrasini.  Rossolini not only has a farm - he is also growing several tropical fruits not normally grown in Siciliy such as papaya and avocado - but he is also growing coffee.  Of course I had to ask about cacao - and he actually did try to grow it, but they were hit with a frost and it didnt’ survive….but he is determined to try again!  I definitely want to connect him with Jeff from Moka Origins - not only about the cacao but also the coffee!!

The farm tour was amazing - we tasted our way through - and then we sat down for a real authentic Italian farm to table meal - 3 courses - plus wine…and more wine…and an after dinner cocktail made from passion fruit grown at the farm - accompanied by authentic italian music and singing….Although I knew few words….i could feel the sense of family, connectedness and joy during this festive gathering.

So Join Helen and I as we explore my first few days and last few days in Siciliy - which were filled with more family, more delicious meals, visits to historic city streets, markets and churches, hikes, majestic scenery, gelato, cannoli and much love and connection.  It was amazing and unforgettable.

A Special thank you to Helen, Vincenzo, and Anthony for graciously welcoming me into their home and making me a part of the family!   This is jen ross, your agritourist podcast host.  Enjoy my interview with Helen from Terrasini Sicily.  If you enjoy the podcast, subscribe, share and comment!  Ciao! 


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Helen Cane Tarpinian Buzzsprout-18111644 Mon, 03 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0500 3253 sicily, terrasini, farm, farming, sicilian, palermo, marsala, italy, italian, wwoof, wwoofing, agriculture 2 74 full false A Sicilian Harvest in Marsala with Gianfranco and Nino A Sicilian Harvest in Marsala with Gianfranco and Nino Send a text

Ciao from Marsala, Sicily….and my first WWOOFING experience.  I did it!  I signed up for WWOOF Italy and found an amazing farm in Marsala, Sicily to spend a week volunteering.   

The farm name is Orto Infesta - run by Gianfranco and Nino. I have never felt so welcomed and so instantly part of a family as I did with Nino and Gianfranco.

Gianfranco and Nino are building something very special at their farm….a place for people to visit, learn, volunteer, and mangia…a place for people to purchase local, organically grown fruits and vegetables.  A place where kids can come and learn.  And a future agritourism destination where visitors to Marsala can connect and experience real food. 

During my WWOOFing experience we harvested and boxed vegetables and fruits.  I was also so fortunate to visit them during Olive Harvest season - so we spent many of my days at the different olive tree farms.  And, after those harvests, we brought the olives to the oil production facility to see our hand picked olives turned into some of the best, most delicious and certainly most authentic olive oil in the world….from olive tree to table in its purest form!

As I mentioned to Nino and Gianfranco, some of my favorite times took place at our daily meals.  A time for sharing and connecting…whether at the home table or sitting under an olive tree.  That’s where the real Sicilian magic happened…as people from different parts of the world came together as a family.  

I have to make a special mention to Antonia, Gianfranco’s mom.  She knew very little English and my Italian is extremely minimal…and although we could barely communicate in our languages - we communicated with plenty of hugs, kind expressions, and by helping with simple kitchen and home tasks.  And that was just enough to build a forever bond with this amazing woman.

This trip was so meaningful to me on so many levels.  This is one of 2 podcast interviews from my visit to Siciliy that you will hear…and now the 2 reasons that brought me to Siciliy are also connected because of this trip.  

Once again…thank you Nino and Gianfranco…for all that you have given me….especially your innate kindness,  your authentic desire to give… to me, to all of your visitors and to your community. 

Orto Infesta Instagram
The One Straw Revolution by Masonobu Fukuoka
Marsala Vacanze
Orto Infesta Facebook


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Ciao from Marsala, Sicily….and my first WWOOFING experience.  I did it!  I signed up for WWOOF Italy and found an amazing farm in Marsala, Sicily to spend a week volunteering.   

The farm name is Orto Infesta - run by Gianfranco and Nino. I have never felt so welcomed and so instantly part of a family as I did with Nino and Gianfranco.

Gianfranco and Nino are building something very special at their farm….a place for people to visit, learn, volunteer, and mangia…a place for people to purchase local, organically grown fruits and vegetables.  A place where kids can come and learn.  And a future agritourism destination where visitors to Marsala can connect and experience real food. 

During my WWOOFing experience we harvested and boxed vegetables and fruits.  I was also so fortunate to visit them during Olive Harvest season - so we spent many of my days at the different olive tree farms.  And, after those harvests, we brought the olives to the oil production facility to see our hand picked olives turned into some of the best, most delicious and certainly most authentic olive oil in the world….from olive tree to table in its purest form!

As I mentioned to Nino and Gianfranco, some of my favorite times took place at our daily meals.  A time for sharing and connecting…whether at the home table or sitting under an olive tree.  That’s where the real Sicilian magic happened…as people from different parts of the world came together as a family.  

I have to make a special mention to Antonia, Gianfranco’s mom.  She knew very little English and my Italian is extremely minimal…and although we could barely communicate in our languages - we communicated with plenty of hugs, kind expressions, and by helping with simple kitchen and home tasks.  And that was just enough to build a forever bond with this amazing woman.

This trip was so meaningful to me on so many levels.  This is one of 2 podcast interviews from my visit to Siciliy that you will hear…and now the 2 reasons that brought me to Siciliy are also connected because of this trip.  

Once again…thank you Nino and Gianfranco…for all that you have given me….especially your innate kindness,  your authentic desire to give… to me, to all of your visitors and to your community. 

Orto Infesta Instagram
The One Straw Revolution by Masonobu Fukuoka
Marsala Vacanze
Orto Infesta Facebook


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Gianfranco Todaro/Nino Ragona Buzzsprout-18071540 Mon, 27 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0400 4417 italy, italian farm, farming, regenerative, sicily, sicilian, sicilian farm, olives, olive harvest, olive oil, agriculture, farmer, agritourism, marsala italy, local food 2 73 full false Trusting the Journey 'Round Ireland with Pattie Baker Trusting the Journey 'Round Ireland with Pattie Baker Send a text

I know we’ve gone rogue, off the normal podcast schedule.  And it feels kind of  liberating in a strange way!  But it’s also given me the opportunity to reset a bit.  I haven’t completely figured out how I want to approach the Agri-Tourist Podcast going forward, but it’s given me some time back and will allow me time to test some things out.

One of those things is doing a video edit along with the audio edit.  I’ve avoided that mainly because of the time it takes to do all the editing.  But for some select interviews I am going to make the time and add a video podcast to the mix.  And we are going to do that for this interview….my interview with Pattie Baker, author of a few books - 2 in particular being Round America with a Duck in which I interviewed Pattie back in Episode 20 - and her newest book Round Ireland with a Duck!

Pattie was a real inspiration for me when I read her Round America with a Duck  book…then we spoke and that inspiration came alive…and then she went to Ireland and wrote a 2nd book about her amazing experiences. 

These books are not just about WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) - they are about a woman who is trusting her journey -a woman who is truly present in the moment - a woman who values interactions with people she encounters at every moment of her life - taking notice of things that most people just breeze by or ignore.

And throughout this journey, Pattie’s personal and family challenges surface…along with hearing the extreme challenges of many of the families she resided with during her stays. When you are WWOOFing or living and working with strangers, it reveals a lot about yourself to yourself and it reveals a lot about the stories of the people you are spending time with.  Pattie uses those experiences to really look at herself, her raw self…and has learned to truly  trust the journey each and every day.  Enjoy my deep dive around Ireland with Patty Baker and her bike mascot, Disco the Duck! 
Link to Video Podcast with Pattie Baker
Round Ireland with a Duck
Agri-Tourist Podcast - Round America with a Duck 
Agri-Tourist Podcast - WWOOF 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I know we’ve gone rogue, off the normal podcast schedule.  And it feels kind of  liberating in a strange way!  But it’s also given me the opportunity to reset a bit.  I haven’t completely figured out how I want to approach the Agri-Tourist Podcast going forward, but it’s given me some time back and will allow me time to test some things out.

One of those things is doing a video edit along with the audio edit.  I’ve avoided that mainly because of the time it takes to do all the editing.  But for some select interviews I am going to make the time and add a video podcast to the mix.  And we are going to do that for this interview….my interview with Pattie Baker, author of a few books - 2 in particular being Round America with a Duck in which I interviewed Pattie back in Episode 20 - and her newest book Round Ireland with a Duck!

Pattie was a real inspiration for me when I read her Round America with a Duck  book…then we spoke and that inspiration came alive…and then she went to Ireland and wrote a 2nd book about her amazing experiences. 

These books are not just about WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) - they are about a woman who is trusting her journey -a woman who is truly present in the moment - a woman who values interactions with people she encounters at every moment of her life - taking notice of things that most people just breeze by or ignore.

And throughout this journey, Pattie’s personal and family challenges surface…along with hearing the extreme challenges of many of the families she resided with during her stays. When you are WWOOFing or living and working with strangers, it reveals a lot about yourself to yourself and it reveals a lot about the stories of the people you are spending time with.  Pattie uses those experiences to really look at herself, her raw self…and has learned to truly  trust the journey each and every day.  Enjoy my deep dive around Ireland with Patty Baker and her bike mascot, Disco the Duck! 
Link to Video Podcast with Pattie Baker
Round Ireland with a Duck
Agri-Tourist Podcast - Round America with a Duck 
Agri-Tourist Podcast - WWOOF 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Pattie Baker Buzzsprout-17913876 Mon, 29 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400 6063 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, wwoof, ireland 2 72 full false It's Time to Pause...& 3 Favorites! It's Time to Pause...& 3 Favorites! Send a text

This is a special episode for many reasons.  We hit 70 episodes last week!! I can’t believe how fast 70 episodes went by - 70 weeks of my life and yours!!!  This episode will be highlighting -  very briefly -  the top 3 most listened to podcasts.  And what do I mean by highlighting them - I am pulling out some of the most meaningful sections - the part of the conversation that left an impact on me…and hopefully left an impact on you too!  

But I am also using this time to say a few words about going forward.  I value each and every person who has taken the time out of their lives to listen to these conversations.  That truly means the world to me.  As I truly valued the time that my podcast guests took out of their lives to spend some time with me and talk to me about all that they do…and also open up to me about their personal stories.  

It’s come time to pause, evaluate and take in everything that I learned….not a permanent pause but an interruption and change to the normal schedule going forward.  As a marketer consistency is critical. So, yes,  I am breaking one of my very own marketing rules.  But sometimes rules just need to be broken!  I will be doing pop up podcasts on an irregular basis - there are some that are planned for the near future that will take place.  But, for many reasons, I decided it was best to pause the weekly monday podcasts and mix it up just a bit.  

So why I am taking this pause? My youngest daughter just started college….for those who have experienced this….I know that I don’t need to say another word…I know you deeply understand.  For those who haven’t yet or have not experienced this….it’s definitely a pivotal time of reflection and change.. A time of questioning a lot of things.  And a time of new beginnings….all of which are very frightening and super exciting at the same time.  

The last 70 weeks of inspiring conversations have somewhat prepared me for these next steps…for these changes….so I thank every person who entered my life for the last 70 weeks…every one of you came into my life for a reason..and I value each and every one of you. And most importantly, for your own health, for the health and well being of our local farmers, and for the well being of our Earth….please make every effort to shop your local farms! 

Thank you for listening and hopefully you will stick around for what’s to come in the future…. here are the top 3 podcasts that you listened to the most...

A Chocolate & Coffee Agri-Tour Adventure with Moka Origins CEO Jeff Abella

A Plant-Based Visit to Florida with Emma & John Hoel of Peacefield Farm Sanctuary

Skip the Farmers Market and Learn How to Profit from a Pick Your Own Farm with Megan Neubauer


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

This is a special episode for many reasons.  We hit 70 episodes last week!! I can’t believe how fast 70 episodes went by - 70 weeks of my life and yours!!!  This episode will be highlighting -  very briefly -  the top 3 most listened to podcasts.  And what do I mean by highlighting them - I am pulling out some of the most meaningful sections - the part of the conversation that left an impact on me…and hopefully left an impact on you too!  

But I am also using this time to say a few words about going forward.  I value each and every person who has taken the time out of their lives to listen to these conversations.  That truly means the world to me.  As I truly valued the time that my podcast guests took out of their lives to spend some time with me and talk to me about all that they do…and also open up to me about their personal stories.  

It’s come time to pause, evaluate and take in everything that I learned….not a permanent pause but an interruption and change to the normal schedule going forward.  As a marketer consistency is critical. So, yes,  I am breaking one of my very own marketing rules.  But sometimes rules just need to be broken!  I will be doing pop up podcasts on an irregular basis - there are some that are planned for the near future that will take place.  But, for many reasons, I decided it was best to pause the weekly monday podcasts and mix it up just a bit.  

So why I am taking this pause? My youngest daughter just started college….for those who have experienced this….I know that I don’t need to say another word…I know you deeply understand.  For those who haven’t yet or have not experienced this….it’s definitely a pivotal time of reflection and change.. A time of questioning a lot of things.  And a time of new beginnings….all of which are very frightening and super exciting at the same time.  

The last 70 weeks of inspiring conversations have somewhat prepared me for these next steps…for these changes….so I thank every person who entered my life for the last 70 weeks…every one of you came into my life for a reason..and I value each and every one of you. And most importantly, for your own health, for the health and well being of our local farmers, and for the well being of our Earth….please make every effort to shop your local farms! 

Thank you for listening and hopefully you will stick around for what’s to come in the future…. here are the top 3 podcasts that you listened to the most...

A Chocolate & Coffee Agri-Tour Adventure with Moka Origins CEO Jeff Abella

A Plant-Based Visit to Florida with Emma & John Hoel of Peacefield Farm Sanctuary

Skip the Farmers Market and Learn How to Profit from a Pick Your Own Farm with Megan Neubauer


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Megan Neubauer/Emma & John Hoel/Jeff Abella Buzzsprout-17762472 Mon, 01 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400 2440 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, vegetables, plantbased, plant-based, farm sanctuary, chocolate, cacao, coffee, cacao trees, origin trips, agriculture trips, ecotravel 2 71 full false Amy Crone is Expanding Food Access with Technology Amy Crone is Expanding Food Access with Technology Send a text

We have all heard about the impending cuts that will be impacting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - also known as SNAP.  SNAP is  a food program that provides assistance to more than 40 million people across America and also provide income to farmers who are able to accept SNAP.  The program impacts 2 sets of people  - those in  need of assistance AND the farmers that feed them.  

Today’s conversation is with Amy Crone - founder of The Farmers Food Assistance Bureau (acronym is FFAB).  FFAB is a nonprofit organization formed with the mission of working with ALL federal nutrition benefits programs as well as all financial transactions to simplify them for farmers.

When I was farming, we were part of the Farmers Market Nutrition Program in NY.  A farmer had to apply to be part of the program, get accepted and then go through training on how to facilitate the program and reconcile with NYS on a regular basis to receive reimbursement.  It was a time-consuming process, especially for a farmer who needs to be out in the fields.  So when I heard about what Amy was doing through FFAB and specifically with the MarketLink technology she created to help farmers get setup and utilize these food assistance programs with the use of an app, I was so interested to learn more.  

Amy’s commitment to giving more farmers the ability to easily enroll and use these food assistance programs is commendable…and it is having such a tremendous impact to the recipients of these programs and to the farmers who are now able to support these programs.   

MarketLink

Farmers Food Assistance Bureau

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

We have all heard about the impending cuts that will be impacting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - also known as SNAP.  SNAP is  a food program that provides assistance to more than 40 million people across America and also provide income to farmers who are able to accept SNAP.  The program impacts 2 sets of people  - those in  need of assistance AND the farmers that feed them.  

Today’s conversation is with Amy Crone - founder of The Farmers Food Assistance Bureau (acronym is FFAB).  FFAB is a nonprofit organization formed with the mission of working with ALL federal nutrition benefits programs as well as all financial transactions to simplify them for farmers.

When I was farming, we were part of the Farmers Market Nutrition Program in NY.  A farmer had to apply to be part of the program, get accepted and then go through training on how to facilitate the program and reconcile with NYS on a regular basis to receive reimbursement.  It was a time-consuming process, especially for a farmer who needs to be out in the fields.  So when I heard about what Amy was doing through FFAB and specifically with the MarketLink technology she created to help farmers get setup and utilize these food assistance programs with the use of an app, I was so interested to learn more.  

Amy’s commitment to giving more farmers the ability to easily enroll and use these food assistance programs is commendable…and it is having such a tremendous impact to the recipients of these programs and to the farmers who are now able to support these programs.   

MarketLink

Farmers Food Assistance Bureau

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Amy Crone Buzzsprout-17723320 Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400 2313 SNAP, food access, food accessibility, farmers, farmer, farming, farmers market nutrition program, food benefits, food adversity, food equity 2 70 full false 20 Years Worth of Agri-Adventures with Tim Werbe 20 Years Worth of Agri-Adventures with Tim Werbe Send a text

Today’s conversation is with an old friend, someone who’s been with me since my days in corporate america, has known my kids since they were really young, and someone who has been an active agritourist with me along my journey.  His formal name is Thomas Chandler Werbe III, but I call him Tim!  Tim and I were recently reflecting and reminiscing about many of our adventures together - many of which have been focused on agriculture, farming, education, and plenty of outdoor activities.  Actually, I was in awe as we chatted up a storm about all that we have experienced and explored over the past 20 years….so many fun adventures, so many educational experiences, and so many funny moments!  So, without further ado, check out a special conversation between Tim and I while we highlight some of our inspirational agri-adventures over the past 20 years!  Thank you Tim for sharing all of these memories with me! 
Fishkill Farms
Stone Barn Center for Food & Agriculture
Hobbs Farm
Foundation House
New York Botanical Garden
Versailles Farm
Beaverkill Valley Inn
For Farm Movement - Dana Diprima
Little Bean Farm & Pantry
Tim Werbe Art

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Today’s conversation is with an old friend, someone who’s been with me since my days in corporate america, has known my kids since they were really young, and someone who has been an active agritourist with me along my journey.  His formal name is Thomas Chandler Werbe III, but I call him Tim!  Tim and I were recently reflecting and reminiscing about many of our adventures together - many of which have been focused on agriculture, farming, education, and plenty of outdoor activities.  Actually, I was in awe as we chatted up a storm about all that we have experienced and explored over the past 20 years….so many fun adventures, so many educational experiences, and so many funny moments!  So, without further ado, check out a special conversation between Tim and I while we highlight some of our inspirational agri-adventures over the past 20 years!  Thank you Tim for sharing all of these memories with me! 
Fishkill Farms
Stone Barn Center for Food & Agriculture
Hobbs Farm
Foundation House
New York Botanical Garden
Versailles Farm
Beaverkill Valley Inn
For Farm Movement - Dana Diprima
Little Bean Farm & Pantry
Tim Werbe Art

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Tim Werbe Buzzsprout-17685465 Mon, 18 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400 4113 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, vegetables, farm tour, farm to table, farm to table dinner, farm dinner 2 69 full false Bypassing Traditional Food Systems to Make Food Accessible Bypassing Traditional Food Systems to Make Food Accessible Send a text

Luis Angel Mendez’s journey at Red Tomato began 21 years ago. In 2001 Angel met Michael Rozyne, Founder, and Kate Larson, former Operations manager.. Michael and Kate were searching for two things, warehouse space, and a warehouse manager!  

The potential Angel saw in Red Tomato outweighed any possible risk, he saw this organization was brand new, cultivating its path into the future. This was meaningful work. Angel took a leap of faith and joined Red Tomato as a warehouse manager. 

Red Tomato was developing a supply chain prototype project from a simple but powerful idea: bringing together the people who grow food directly with the people who eat the food. While it sounds straightforward, many systems get in the way of that direct connection and create a lot more costs. 

Angel quickly learned to handle over 50+ fresh produce items, organic and conventional. He began to learn much more about farm economics and agricultural science.  He started to see the powerful connection between food, agriculture, and food systems.  After years of learning the business, Angel is now the Executive Director of Red Tomato. 

Angel is a Boston native and a father of four. Angel grew up in a low-income family and prides himself in helping others, especially those in need. The more he understood his work, its impact, and its ability to be the vehicle to change food systems, the more intrigued and excited Angel became at Red Tomato!  

One of Angel’s most important projects - his baby - is the Bypass Project.  The Bypass Project launched in 2021 in collaboration with Reos Partners, Connecticut farmers, and community food distributors in Bridgeport and Hartford. The Bypass Project determines how to “bypass” traditional systems so that everyone’s needs are met:

  • Communities get access to affordable, healthy food
  • Growers receive fair prices for their produce
  • Direct relationships are built between farmers and communities
  • Transportation and logistics costs are reduced

Learn more about Angel’s journey and the Bypass project  is now expanding throughout the US.  

Red Tomato

The Bypass Project

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Luis Angel Mendez’s journey at Red Tomato began 21 years ago. In 2001 Angel met Michael Rozyne, Founder, and Kate Larson, former Operations manager.. Michael and Kate were searching for two things, warehouse space, and a warehouse manager!  

The potential Angel saw in Red Tomato outweighed any possible risk, he saw this organization was brand new, cultivating its path into the future. This was meaningful work. Angel took a leap of faith and joined Red Tomato as a warehouse manager. 

Red Tomato was developing a supply chain prototype project from a simple but powerful idea: bringing together the people who grow food directly with the people who eat the food. While it sounds straightforward, many systems get in the way of that direct connection and create a lot more costs. 

Angel quickly learned to handle over 50+ fresh produce items, organic and conventional. He began to learn much more about farm economics and agricultural science.  He started to see the powerful connection between food, agriculture, and food systems.  After years of learning the business, Angel is now the Executive Director of Red Tomato. 

Angel is a Boston native and a father of four. Angel grew up in a low-income family and prides himself in helping others, especially those in need. The more he understood his work, its impact, and its ability to be the vehicle to change food systems, the more intrigued and excited Angel became at Red Tomato!  

One of Angel’s most important projects - his baby - is the Bypass Project.  The Bypass Project launched in 2021 in collaboration with Reos Partners, Connecticut farmers, and community food distributors in Bridgeport and Hartford. The Bypass Project determines how to “bypass” traditional systems so that everyone’s needs are met:

  • Communities get access to affordable, healthy food
  • Growers receive fair prices for their produce
  • Direct relationships are built between farmers and communities
  • Transportation and logistics costs are reduced

Learn more about Angel’s journey and the Bypass project  is now expanding throughout the US.  

Red Tomato

The Bypass Project

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Luis Angel Mendez Buzzsprout-17647166 Mon, 11 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400 2503 farmers, farming, farm, northeast farmers, eco, eco certified, apples, peaches, agriculture, grocers, food producers, growers, agritourist, agritourism, farm education 2 68 full false When Farmers Win, We ALL Win with Dana DiPrima When Farmers Win, We ALL Win with Dana DiPrima Send a text

Dana DiPrima is supporting hardworking small & mid-sized American farmers with small actions that have a big impact. She believes, and I wholeheartedly agree with her, that when farmers win, we ALL win.  

I found Dana’s podcast, One Bite is Everything, on  Apple Podcasts a few months ago.  I have been an avid  weekly listener.  Dana is tapping into many of the same themes that I have been hearing from farmers….and, although our podcasts and personalities are different, our missions, passions and overall goals are very similar.

I reached out to Dana to interview her for my podcast as I wanted to explore the feedback that she was hearing from farmers and food businesses.  She responded right away and we set up a date and time.  From that correspondence, she let me know about her non profit - the for farmer’s movement - and directed me to her website.  And, of course, I linked over and started reading about all the amazing initiatives she has going on. I came across a farm to table dinner fundraiser that she was hosting in the Catskills in upstate NY.  So I called my friend Tim - who is usually up for a new adventure - and we signed up!  

A few weeks later I found myself in the Catskills at the historic Beaverkill Valley Inn (known for being the home of fly fishing) on a beautiful Saturday evening, chatting it up with inspiring supporters and dedicated farmers while savoring a farm to table dinner!  These types of experiences leave a profound imprint on me, especially because of the new connections that are made and the opportunity to experience a new farm community in the Catskills.  

Enjoy my conversation with Dana DiPrima from the One Bite is Everything Podcast and please take her message to heart -  do something to impact a small farmer today….we can all do something…it’s as easy as donating $1 or shopping at a local farmers market or farm one day per week.  Every bit (or bite) counts! 

One Bite is Everything Podcast

For Farmers Movement

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Dana DiPrima is supporting hardworking small & mid-sized American farmers with small actions that have a big impact. She believes, and I wholeheartedly agree with her, that when farmers win, we ALL win.  

I found Dana’s podcast, One Bite is Everything, on  Apple Podcasts a few months ago.  I have been an avid  weekly listener.  Dana is tapping into many of the same themes that I have been hearing from farmers….and, although our podcasts and personalities are different, our missions, passions and overall goals are very similar.

I reached out to Dana to interview her for my podcast as I wanted to explore the feedback that she was hearing from farmers and food businesses.  She responded right away and we set up a date and time.  From that correspondence, she let me know about her non profit - the for farmer’s movement - and directed me to her website.  And, of course, I linked over and started reading about all the amazing initiatives she has going on. I came across a farm to table dinner fundraiser that she was hosting in the Catskills in upstate NY.  So I called my friend Tim - who is usually up for a new adventure - and we signed up!  

A few weeks later I found myself in the Catskills at the historic Beaverkill Valley Inn (known for being the home of fly fishing) on a beautiful Saturday evening, chatting it up with inspiring supporters and dedicated farmers while savoring a farm to table dinner!  These types of experiences leave a profound imprint on me, especially because of the new connections that are made and the opportunity to experience a new farm community in the Catskills.  

Enjoy my conversation with Dana DiPrima from the One Bite is Everything Podcast and please take her message to heart -  do something to impact a small farmer today….we can all do something…it’s as easy as donating $1 or shopping at a local farmers market or farm one day per week.  Every bit (or bite) counts! 

One Bite is Everything Podcast

For Farmers Movement

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Dana DiPrima Buzzsprout-17606196 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400 4314 farmer, organic, organic farmer, organic farming, agritourism, small farmer, small farms, farmer grants, farmer movement, small farm movement, fundraising for farmers, farm podcast, agriculture podcast 2 67 full true A Blue Point Oyster Farm in the Great South Bay A Blue Point Oyster Farm in the Great South Bay Send a text

About 3 years ago, Mike & Ray founded Toasted Oysters… a venture that started over some research and a couple of backyard drinks.  And one that is also a part of the Farmer Veteran Coalition.  I have to admit, Until we spoke, I didn’t really understand what an oyster farm really meant - that it was a physical farm location in the water where the farm owners grow oysters.  Sounds intuitive, but the physical boundaries of the farm are hard to fathom.  

After 3 years of oyster farming in the Great South Bay off southern Long Island, NY, Mike and Ray are doing a phenomenal job growing high quality and very desirable Blue Point Oysters.  And they are also thinking about integrating agritourism to their business in the future, providing a water experience that exposes all that they know about oysters and oyster farming, including all the other aquatic life that surrounds them.  Enjoy my conversation with Mike & Ray. 

Toasted Oysters

Toasted Oysters on Instagram

Farmer Veteran Coalition 

Billion Oyster Project


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

About 3 years ago, Mike & Ray founded Toasted Oysters… a venture that started over some research and a couple of backyard drinks.  And one that is also a part of the Farmer Veteran Coalition.  I have to admit, Until we spoke, I didn’t really understand what an oyster farm really meant - that it was a physical farm location in the water where the farm owners grow oysters.  Sounds intuitive, but the physical boundaries of the farm are hard to fathom.  

After 3 years of oyster farming in the Great South Bay off southern Long Island, NY, Mike and Ray are doing a phenomenal job growing high quality and very desirable Blue Point Oysters.  And they are also thinking about integrating agritourism to their business in the future, providing a water experience that exposes all that they know about oysters and oyster farming, including all the other aquatic life that surrounds them.  Enjoy my conversation with Mike & Ray. 

Toasted Oysters

Toasted Oysters on Instagram

Farmer Veteran Coalition 

Billion Oyster Project


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Mike Miezianka/Ray Smith Buzzsprout-17550750 Mon, 28 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400 3942 oyster farm, farm, farming, oyster farming, great south bay, blue point, blue point oysters, oysters, seafood, sustainable, sustainable farming, agritourism 2 66 full false Emily Stone Disrupts the Chocolate Economy, Impacting Over 10,000+ Cacao Farmers Globally Emily Stone Disrupts the Chocolate Economy, Impacting Over 10,000+ Cacao Farmers Globally Send a text

I can’t resist a great conversation about chocolate and cacao farming. I had the pleasure of interviewing someone I met at the beginning of her cacao journey, a real powerhouse and innovator at the time whom I met on my first chocolate trip to Belize - the one with the howler monkeys and the jungle cabana!  

Emily Stone came on the cacao scene in Belize in 2010, made a tremendous impact to the lives and livelihood of cacao farmers in Belize and 15 years later is now running a much larger, global, certified B, Public Benefit Corporation. Her company, Uncommon Cacao, is a specialty cacao trader, sourcing from 10,000+ smallholder producers across 15+ countries and supplies cacao to hundreds of chocolate makers globally.

Across Uncommon Cacao’s businesses, the company has pioneered a new cacao economy that pays farmers more and is grounded in real partnerships that deliver improved stability and success for all. Uncommon Cacao works with all kinds of cacao buyers and chocolate makers as a problem solver and innovation partner. They promise to provide reliable quality cacao products accompanied by Transparent Trade data and stories from their cacao sourcing relationships, and drive transformative supply chain solutions for cacao producers and chocolate makers.

We rarely get a chance to see someone at the beginning of their journey and then get to reconnect with them 15 years later…. and get to talk about the extraordinary impact of those 15 years, wtih much more to come in the future.  Emily’s story is impactful. Her drive is contagious.  And her desire for transparency, equity and justice is admirable and will hopefully inspire the next set of Emily Stones to step up and tackle the many needs that exist in today’s world.  Thank you Emily for all you do,..and continue to do to help farmers! 

Uncommon Cacao

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I can’t resist a great conversation about chocolate and cacao farming. I had the pleasure of interviewing someone I met at the beginning of her cacao journey, a real powerhouse and innovator at the time whom I met on my first chocolate trip to Belize - the one with the howler monkeys and the jungle cabana!  

Emily Stone came on the cacao scene in Belize in 2010, made a tremendous impact to the lives and livelihood of cacao farmers in Belize and 15 years later is now running a much larger, global, certified B, Public Benefit Corporation. Her company, Uncommon Cacao, is a specialty cacao trader, sourcing from 10,000+ smallholder producers across 15+ countries and supplies cacao to hundreds of chocolate makers globally.

Across Uncommon Cacao’s businesses, the company has pioneered a new cacao economy that pays farmers more and is grounded in real partnerships that deliver improved stability and success for all. Uncommon Cacao works with all kinds of cacao buyers and chocolate makers as a problem solver and innovation partner. They promise to provide reliable quality cacao products accompanied by Transparent Trade data and stories from their cacao sourcing relationships, and drive transformative supply chain solutions for cacao producers and chocolate makers.

We rarely get a chance to see someone at the beginning of their journey and then get to reconnect with them 15 years later…. and get to talk about the extraordinary impact of those 15 years, wtih much more to come in the future.  Emily’s story is impactful. Her drive is contagious.  And her desire for transparency, equity and justice is admirable and will hopefully inspire the next set of Emily Stones to step up and tackle the many needs that exist in today’s world.  Thank you Emily for all you do,..and continue to do to help farmers! 

Uncommon Cacao

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/EmilyStone Buzzsprout-17532069 Mon, 21 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400 3592 farmer, organic, organic farmer, organic farming, agritourism, cacao, cacao farming, cacao armer, chocolate, belize, belize chocolate, guatemala, chocolate economy, global trade 2 65 full false The Original Farm Trails & Gravenstein Apple Thrive Together The Original Farm Trails & Gravenstein Apple Thrive Together Send a text

Farm Trails was founded in the 1970’s to connect the public to local farmers, ranchers, producers and purveyors in Sonoma County CA and is still aligned with the same mission and going strong in 2025. 

Over five decades ago, a group of forward-thinking farmers blazed trails in Sonoma County, creating a map & guide for local agriculture, inviting the public to meet their farmers and learn more about the origins of their food. These pioneers also produced the Gravenstein Apple Fair to celebrate the heirloom apple and Sonoma County’s rural traditions. This was back in 1973, before the advent of Farmers’ Markets, CSAs, and campaigns to shop locally. Over the years, their  “North Star” has remained the same: Farms Forever in Sonoma County!

Carmen Snyder is the Executive Director of Farm Trails.  She made her way from the Carolinas to California many years ago and consistently reflects on the mission of Farm Trails. A recent trip overseas required her to be very creative in trying to identify ‘farm to table’ cuisine.  Upon her return she realized that what Farm Trails offers is a way to access the best of the food and food events of Sonoma County - something that is not as easily identified when traveling in different areas of the US and abroad.  

Join Carmen and I as we explore the impact of Farm Trails which I consider a significant marketing opportunity for Sonoma County farmers.  Also, learn about how the Gravenstein Apple has helped Farm Trails thrive and how Farm Trails has kept the Gravenstein at the forefront of the Sonoma County community. 

Farm Trails

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Farm Trails was founded in the 1970’s to connect the public to local farmers, ranchers, producers and purveyors in Sonoma County CA and is still aligned with the same mission and going strong in 2025. 

Over five decades ago, a group of forward-thinking farmers blazed trails in Sonoma County, creating a map & guide for local agriculture, inviting the public to meet their farmers and learn more about the origins of their food. These pioneers also produced the Gravenstein Apple Fair to celebrate the heirloom apple and Sonoma County’s rural traditions. This was back in 1973, before the advent of Farmers’ Markets, CSAs, and campaigns to shop locally. Over the years, their  “North Star” has remained the same: Farms Forever in Sonoma County!

Carmen Snyder is the Executive Director of Farm Trails.  She made her way from the Carolinas to California many years ago and consistently reflects on the mission of Farm Trails. A recent trip overseas required her to be very creative in trying to identify ‘farm to table’ cuisine.  Upon her return she realized that what Farm Trails offers is a way to access the best of the food and food events of Sonoma County - something that is not as easily identified when traveling in different areas of the US and abroad.  

Join Carmen and I as we explore the impact of Farm Trails which I consider a significant marketing opportunity for Sonoma County farmers.  Also, learn about how the Gravenstein Apple has helped Farm Trails thrive and how Farm Trails has kept the Gravenstein at the forefront of the Sonoma County community. 

Farm Trails

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Carmen Snyder Buzzsprout-17487420 Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400 4003 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, sonoma county, apples, Gravenstein 2 64 full false A Costa Rica Adventure Debrief with Abby A Costa Rica Adventure Debrief with Abby Send a text

One of my best trips ever….exploring Costa Rica…with my youngest daughter Abby…for her 18th birthday and High School graduation!  This past April, Abby and I embarked on an adventure to Costa Rica….packed with ‘fake’ volcanic eruptions, ash clouds, rainforest hikes, stray dogs, serendipitous moments, magnificent sunsets, a cacao farm tour, chocolate and coffee tasting, delicious, clean, local meals, howler monkeys, the Pacific ocean, waterfalls, and so much more…. Taking it all in was not enough!  I needed to debrief on this amazing agritourism adventure with my youngest on the podcast!  I wanted to capture these moments forever on audio. Join Abby and I as we banter about our first-time adventures together in Costa Rica!  Enjoy my conversation with Abby! 

La Leona Waterfall
Arenal Volcano National Park
Don Juan Chocolate & Coffee Tour
ATV Tours 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

One of my best trips ever….exploring Costa Rica…with my youngest daughter Abby…for her 18th birthday and High School graduation!  This past April, Abby and I embarked on an adventure to Costa Rica….packed with ‘fake’ volcanic eruptions, ash clouds, rainforest hikes, stray dogs, serendipitous moments, magnificent sunsets, a cacao farm tour, chocolate and coffee tasting, delicious, clean, local meals, howler monkeys, the Pacific ocean, waterfalls, and so much more…. Taking it all in was not enough!  I needed to debrief on this amazing agritourism adventure with my youngest on the podcast!  I wanted to capture these moments forever on audio. Join Abby and I as we banter about our first-time adventures together in Costa Rica!  Enjoy my conversation with Abby! 

La Leona Waterfall
Arenal Volcano National Park
Don Juan Chocolate & Coffee Tour
ATV Tours 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Abby Morrongiello Buzzsprout-17429404 Mon, 07 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400 3973 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, farming, farm, costa rica, rainforest, cacao, cacao farm, coffee farm, chocolate, adventure travel, farm tour 2 63 full false Farms of the Brave with Matt & Kara Rutter Farms of the Brave with Matt & Kara Rutter Send a text

I had the opportunity to interview 2 extremely dedicated and super insipring people who are veterans, farmers, educators, PHd students, and mentors for so many veterans who are considering a career in farming.  This is career #2 for both of them. But Why did they pick Farming?

With one-third of American farmers over the age of 60, there is a critical shortage of individuals entering the agriculture industry. At the same time, there is a  record number of veterans experiencing  unemployment, PTSD, suicide, and other challenges that naturally follow almost two decades of sustained war.​

Matthew and Kara Rutter, discuss their journey into farming post-military and why they are on a mission to increase the number of farmers while helping their fellow veterans. 

Matt & Kara have created a few business models all focused on helping veterans get into farming and successfully stay in farming including Project Victory Gardens, Farms of the Brave, Farmer’s Bootcamp which is like a mini shark tank experience for wannabe farmers, Rutter’s ranch which is their own for profit farm business, and there are also projects that have been born out of their PHD pursuits in agriculture. 

Matt & Kara are connected to Jeanette Lombardo from  Farmer’s Veteran Coalition, the Global Agritorusim NEtwork and Will Culler from Clemson U who coordinates  the ag and art tours in South Carolina.  Join me as we learn more about how Matt & Kara are motivating our veterans to pursue all sorts of careers in farming.
Farms of the Brave
Rutters Ranch
Project Victory Gardens
Farmer Bootcamp
Farmers Veteran Coalition
South Carolina's Ag & Art Tour 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I had the opportunity to interview 2 extremely dedicated and super insipring people who are veterans, farmers, educators, PHd students, and mentors for so many veterans who are considering a career in farming.  This is career #2 for both of them. But Why did they pick Farming?

With one-third of American farmers over the age of 60, there is a critical shortage of individuals entering the agriculture industry. At the same time, there is a  record number of veterans experiencing  unemployment, PTSD, suicide, and other challenges that naturally follow almost two decades of sustained war.​

Matthew and Kara Rutter, discuss their journey into farming post-military and why they are on a mission to increase the number of farmers while helping their fellow veterans. 

Matt & Kara have created a few business models all focused on helping veterans get into farming and successfully stay in farming including Project Victory Gardens, Farms of the Brave, Farmer’s Bootcamp which is like a mini shark tank experience for wannabe farmers, Rutter’s ranch which is their own for profit farm business, and there are also projects that have been born out of their PHD pursuits in agriculture. 

Matt & Kara are connected to Jeanette Lombardo from  Farmer’s Veteran Coalition, the Global Agritorusim NEtwork and Will Culler from Clemson U who coordinates  the ag and art tours in South Carolina.  Join me as we learn more about how Matt & Kara are motivating our veterans to pursue all sorts of careers in farming.
Farms of the Brave
Rutters Ranch
Project Victory Gardens
Farmer Bootcamp
Farmers Veteran Coalition
South Carolina's Ag & Art Tour 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Kara Rutter/Matt Rutter Buzzsprout-17415908 Mon, 30 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3104 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, farming, farm, veteran farmers, veteran farming, veterans, farmer bootcamp, learn farming 2 62 full false Wine on the Porch Part 2: A Mini Podcast Series with Maryland 'Farm' Women Wine on the Porch Part 2: A Mini Podcast Series with Maryland 'Farm' Women Send a text

On Agri-Tourist Episode #4 we hosted Shelby Watson-Hampton, author of Grace, Grit & Lipstick and co-owner of Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards in Maryland.  I was heading down to South Carolina and my half way point was Maryland.  I reached out to Shelby to see if she would be available to connect at her vineyard on a specific evening and, lucky for me, she was available, and so were 10 other local farm women and entrepreneurs.  Shelby created an evening of wine, charcuterie, book discussion, connection and mini podcast interviews. 

Part II of our visit to Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards begins with my interview with Jennifer Harris who manifested her way from a farm in Washington State to Washington DC. Jennifer has always asked, “what is behavior change and how does communications play a role in that? “ Hence, her career has been in Communications within the government sector focused on agriculture and the environment. 

Next I interviewed Sydney Garner who grew up on a 3500 acre, generational,  conventional family grain farm that grew corn, soybeans and wheat. These products are not direct to consumer products and get a bad rap at times.  Sydney taught us about how her farm works to ensure that their farming and production doesn't  impact the local Bays. 

Caroline Trossbach was born and raised on a 4th generation Maryland farm. She is an Agricultural development specialist supporting farm businesses in her county. We had a great discussion about the evolution of farmers markets and ultimately why farmers are turning more to agritourism. 

Lastly, I interviewed Shari Bryant. Shari’s love for horses started when she was a young girl.  Shari built a career in accounting, but she knew her life would involve horses. She launched FoxFire Farm where they do horseback trail riding paired with wine tasting at the next door vineyard…this is such a creative agritourism venture.  

Shelby’s Book - Grace Grit & Lipstick
Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission
FoxFire Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

On Agri-Tourist Episode #4 we hosted Shelby Watson-Hampton, author of Grace, Grit & Lipstick and co-owner of Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards in Maryland.  I was heading down to South Carolina and my half way point was Maryland.  I reached out to Shelby to see if she would be available to connect at her vineyard on a specific evening and, lucky for me, she was available, and so were 10 other local farm women and entrepreneurs.  Shelby created an evening of wine, charcuterie, book discussion, connection and mini podcast interviews. 

Part II of our visit to Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards begins with my interview with Jennifer Harris who manifested her way from a farm in Washington State to Washington DC. Jennifer has always asked, “what is behavior change and how does communications play a role in that? “ Hence, her career has been in Communications within the government sector focused on agriculture and the environment. 

Next I interviewed Sydney Garner who grew up on a 3500 acre, generational,  conventional family grain farm that grew corn, soybeans and wheat. These products are not direct to consumer products and get a bad rap at times.  Sydney taught us about how her farm works to ensure that their farming and production doesn't  impact the local Bays. 

Caroline Trossbach was born and raised on a 4th generation Maryland farm. She is an Agricultural development specialist supporting farm businesses in her county. We had a great discussion about the evolution of farmers markets and ultimately why farmers are turning more to agritourism. 

Lastly, I interviewed Shari Bryant. Shari’s love for horses started when she was a young girl.  Shari built a career in accounting, but she knew her life would involve horses. She launched FoxFire Farm where they do horseback trail riding paired with wine tasting at the next door vineyard…this is such a creative agritourism venture.  

Shelby’s Book - Grace Grit & Lipstick
Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission
FoxFire Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Jennifer Harris/Sydney Garner/Caroline Trossbach/Shari Bryant Buzzsprout-17342298 Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3762 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, maryland, maryland farm, vineyard, maryland vineyard, horseback riding, wine, maryland wine 2 61 full false Wine on the Porch Part 1: A Mini Podcast Series with Maryland 'Farm' Women Wine on the Porch Part 1: A Mini Podcast Series with Maryland 'Farm' Women Send a text

On the Agri-Tourist Episode #4 we hosted Shelby Watson-Hampton, author of Grace, Grit & Lipstick and co-owner of Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards.  I was heading down to a wedding in SC and my 1st stop was Maryland. I always say that I want to visit and connect in person…and I really do mean it.  I reached out to Shelby to see if she would be available to meet at her vineyard.  She was available, and so were 10 other local farm women and entrepreneurs.  Shelby created an evening of wine, charcuterie, book discussion, connection and mini podcast interviews.  Next is a series of mini podcast interviews with some inspirational farm women.  

  • First up is Susan Watson White, co-owner of Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards and Shelby’s Aunt!  During Shelby’s interview, we spoke a lot about her Aunt and the leadership role she took on at the farm when her father/Shelby’s grandfather suddenly passed away.  
  • Next up is Tasha Dickerson.  She is new to Shelby’s farm group but not new to growing.  Many will relate to her story, her desire to get into farming, and her practical thinking about how she needs to approach this passion and journey.
  • Next you will meet with Mika Palmer who grew up in farming and now is part of her husband’s hay and straw business.  We sometimes just say that someone grows hay…but we don’t  stop to think about what that really means...it’s a lot more intricate than we make it out to be.
  • Amy Crone is the next interview.  Among the many things that Amy does, she is helping to feed Americans!  The need for what she is doing and the impact of what she is doing is extraordinary!  

Enjoy my conversations with each of these amazing women and check out next week's episode for Part II of my visit to Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards! 

Shelby’s Book - Grace Grit & Lipstick
The Farmed Life
Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Palmer Farms LLC
Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission
Hops Scratch Farm
Marketlink.org
The Farmers Food Assistance Bureau

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

On the Agri-Tourist Episode #4 we hosted Shelby Watson-Hampton, author of Grace, Grit & Lipstick and co-owner of Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards.  I was heading down to a wedding in SC and my 1st stop was Maryland. I always say that I want to visit and connect in person…and I really do mean it.  I reached out to Shelby to see if she would be available to meet at her vineyard.  She was available, and so were 10 other local farm women and entrepreneurs.  Shelby created an evening of wine, charcuterie, book discussion, connection and mini podcast interviews.  Next is a series of mini podcast interviews with some inspirational farm women.  

  • First up is Susan Watson White, co-owner of Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards and Shelby’s Aunt!  During Shelby’s interview, we spoke a lot about her Aunt and the leadership role she took on at the farm when her father/Shelby’s grandfather suddenly passed away.  
  • Next up is Tasha Dickerson.  She is new to Shelby’s farm group but not new to growing.  Many will relate to her story, her desire to get into farming, and her practical thinking about how she needs to approach this passion and journey.
  • Next you will meet with Mika Palmer who grew up in farming and now is part of her husband’s hay and straw business.  We sometimes just say that someone grows hay…but we don’t  stop to think about what that really means...it’s a lot more intricate than we make it out to be.
  • Amy Crone is the next interview.  Among the many things that Amy does, she is helping to feed Americans!  The need for what she is doing and the impact of what she is doing is extraordinary!  

Enjoy my conversations with each of these amazing women and check out next week's episode for Part II of my visit to Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards! 

Shelby’s Book - Grace Grit & Lipstick
The Farmed Life
Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Palmer Farms LLC
Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission
Hops Scratch Farm
Marketlink.org
The Farmers Food Assistance Bureau

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Shelby Watson-Hampton/Susan Watson-White/Tasha Dickerson/Mika Palmer/Amy Crone Buzzsprout-17341451 Mon, 16 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2254 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, rural, rural women, women farmers, women in farming, maryland, maryland farms, maryland vineyards, vineyard, wine, maryland wine, women wine makers, ma 2 60 full true Providing Meaningful Access to Healthy Food with Shalom Farms Providing Meaningful Access to Healthy Food with Shalom Farms Send a text

Shalom Farms is a nonprofit working together to build healthy communities by growing and sharing healthy food. The food they grow is distributed through their network of programs and partnerships in communities where access to healthy food is limited.

Shalom Farms is the evolution of the work of the United Methodist Urban Ministries of Richmond (UMUMR) which has a long history of social service work in Richmond VA. In 2009 UMUMR started a pilot project growing food on just half an acre at Westview. As the impact of the project quickly became clear, the organization decided to focus exclusively on food access work and eventually changed its name to Shalom Farms.

In 2016, they relocated their primary growing site  to a larger, more accessible 12 acre farm in only 20 minutes west of Richmond. And they have since added a second five-acre site in Richmond’s Northside. This expansion has allowed them to evolve from distributing just a few thousand pounds of produce a year to local food banks, to a comprehensive range of food access programs and strategies that serve over 10,000 community members annually.

What makes Shalom Farms so unique is their focus on Providing meaningful access to healthy food which is at the heart of everything they do.  So What does "meaningful access" mean?

  • Fresh produce is always affordable for individuals of all income levels.
  • Fresh produce is available, easy to find and easy to get to with convenient and consistent hours of operation.
  • Fresh produce options reflect what community members are familiar with and wish to feed their families.
  • Consumers have access to the tools, information, and recipes needed to enjoy fresh produce.

If any of these components are missing, then access is limited and it is not considered meaningful access. 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Änna Ibrahim, Executive Director of Shalom Farms.  Anna’s diversity of career knowledge, experience, and exposure to food access and equity issues, led her to this unique role as the ED of Shalom Farms.  It was like the job was crafted just for her.  And her husband intuitively knew that as soon as he saw the job post!  Enjoy my inspiring conversation with Anna.

Shalom Farms

Improving Health by Embedding Produce Prescriptions (PRx) into Healthcare Practice


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Shalom Farms is a nonprofit working together to build healthy communities by growing and sharing healthy food. The food they grow is distributed through their network of programs and partnerships in communities where access to healthy food is limited.

Shalom Farms is the evolution of the work of the United Methodist Urban Ministries of Richmond (UMUMR) which has a long history of social service work in Richmond VA. In 2009 UMUMR started a pilot project growing food on just half an acre at Westview. As the impact of the project quickly became clear, the organization decided to focus exclusively on food access work and eventually changed its name to Shalom Farms.

In 2016, they relocated their primary growing site  to a larger, more accessible 12 acre farm in only 20 minutes west of Richmond. And they have since added a second five-acre site in Richmond’s Northside. This expansion has allowed them to evolve from distributing just a few thousand pounds of produce a year to local food banks, to a comprehensive range of food access programs and strategies that serve over 10,000 community members annually.

What makes Shalom Farms so unique is their focus on Providing meaningful access to healthy food which is at the heart of everything they do.  So What does "meaningful access" mean?

  • Fresh produce is always affordable for individuals of all income levels.
  • Fresh produce is available, easy to find and easy to get to with convenient and consistent hours of operation.
  • Fresh produce options reflect what community members are familiar with and wish to feed their families.
  • Consumers have access to the tools, information, and recipes needed to enjoy fresh produce.

If any of these components are missing, then access is limited and it is not considered meaningful access. 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Änna Ibrahim, Executive Director of Shalom Farms.  Anna’s diversity of career knowledge, experience, and exposure to food access and equity issues, led her to this unique role as the ED of Shalom Farms.  It was like the job was crafted just for her.  And her husband intuitively knew that as soon as he saw the job post!  Enjoy my inspiring conversation with Anna.

Shalom Farms

Improving Health by Embedding Produce Prescriptions (PRx) into Healthcare Practice


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Anna Ibrahim Buzzsprout-17284072 Mon, 09 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3741 farmer, farming, farm, richmond, virginia, food access, meaningful access, healthy food, food security, food insecurity, food markets, farmers markets, mobile farmstand, mobile market, winter market 2 59 full false Was Meryl Streep the Real Inspiration for Eco-Certified Apples? Was Meryl Streep the Real Inspiration for Eco-Certified Apples? Send a text

We did not grow apples at my farm.  So during apple season we would purchase apples to have available for our customers.  Finding organic apples was impossible so after some research we found Eco Certified apples from Fishkill Farms - a farm that was about a 2 ½ hour drive from us.  However, it was worth the trip to stock up on healthier, more sustainably grown apples. At the time I read about the Eco Certification and it sounded in line with our values.  But I have to say that I didn’t fully understand why I couldn’t find organic apples, similar to the certification that we find in the grocery stores.

During a podcast interview with the manager and orchardist from Scott Farm  in Vermont, the Eco Certification came up again…they were an eco certified apple farm.  And that was when I learned that apples east of the state of Washington pretty much can’t successfully be certified and grown organically.  Why can’t they?  Well we explore these reasons  in my interview with Michael Rozyne, Founder of Red Tomato, the organization that oversees the Eco Certifiication program for apples and peaches.  

Funny thing is that the Eco Certification is actually tied to Meryl Streep. And… you will have to listen to the podcast to learn more about that intriguing story. 

Turns out that Red Tomato is not just focused on their Eco Certification program but they are also a food distributor, marketing and education powerhouse, and have recently launched an innovative supply chain project to address food access and affordability.  

Join Michael and I as we explore how Red Tomato came to be and has evolved to support the changing times.  Enjoy my conversation with Michael!  

Red Tomato
Scott Farm/Orchard, Vermont - Podcast Episode

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

We did not grow apples at my farm.  So during apple season we would purchase apples to have available for our customers.  Finding organic apples was impossible so after some research we found Eco Certified apples from Fishkill Farms - a farm that was about a 2 ½ hour drive from us.  However, it was worth the trip to stock up on healthier, more sustainably grown apples. At the time I read about the Eco Certification and it sounded in line with our values.  But I have to say that I didn’t fully understand why I couldn’t find organic apples, similar to the certification that we find in the grocery stores.

During a podcast interview with the manager and orchardist from Scott Farm  in Vermont, the Eco Certification came up again…they were an eco certified apple farm.  And that was when I learned that apples east of the state of Washington pretty much can’t successfully be certified and grown organically.  Why can’t they?  Well we explore these reasons  in my interview with Michael Rozyne, Founder of Red Tomato, the organization that oversees the Eco Certifiication program for apples and peaches.  

Funny thing is that the Eco Certification is actually tied to Meryl Streep. And… you will have to listen to the podcast to learn more about that intriguing story. 

Turns out that Red Tomato is not just focused on their Eco Certification program but they are also a food distributor, marketing and education powerhouse, and have recently launched an innovative supply chain project to address food access and affordability.  

Join Michael and I as we explore how Red Tomato came to be and has evolved to support the changing times.  Enjoy my conversation with Michael!  

Red Tomato
Scott Farm/Orchard, Vermont - Podcast Episode

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Michael Rozyne Buzzsprout-17262127 Mon, 02 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 4383 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, eco, eco-certification, apples, apple orchard, organic apples, peaches, organic peaches, farming, farm, orchards 2 58 full false A Land Access Story: Finding Secure Farmland with Molly Comstock A Land Access Story: Finding Secure Farmland with Molly Comstock Send a text

Molly Comstock is now overseeing Many Forks Farm. Many from the Berkshires know her as the owner of Colfax Farm.  Molly’s passion and tenacity for farming and to be a farmer definitely comes through in her story. And her story has a significant focus on the issues surrounding farmers and land access 

Molly didn’t own her land and had to move her farmland and business a few times.  And, for a farmer who invests in their soil and farm infrastructure  and invests in  building a presence and feeding their local community , it’s not easy to find new land and just start over.

Land access and the ability to find a property that provides security to a farmer has become one of the most significant barriers to entry for farmers and wannabe farmers in America.  

Molly’s story is very interesting and takes you on her journey around finding land, land that she can actually feel secure on and build a long term business on, land that she knows will remain farmland well beyond her… 

My conversation with Molly is an important one as it is a real story,..and it serves up the complexities around leasing vs. owning farmland..and offers alternatives and opportunities for farmers today. Join me in exploring Molly’s story. 

Many Forks Farm

Colfax Farm

Berkshire Natural Resources Council

Berkshire Community Land Trust

Green Acres Summer Camps

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Molly Comstock is now overseeing Many Forks Farm. Many from the Berkshires know her as the owner of Colfax Farm.  Molly’s passion and tenacity for farming and to be a farmer definitely comes through in her story. And her story has a significant focus on the issues surrounding farmers and land access 

Molly didn’t own her land and had to move her farmland and business a few times.  And, for a farmer who invests in their soil and farm infrastructure  and invests in  building a presence and feeding their local community , it’s not easy to find new land and just start over.

Land access and the ability to find a property that provides security to a farmer has become one of the most significant barriers to entry for farmers and wannabe farmers in America.  

Molly’s story is very interesting and takes you on her journey around finding land, land that she can actually feel secure on and build a long term business on, land that she knows will remain farmland well beyond her… 

My conversation with Molly is an important one as it is a real story,..and it serves up the complexities around leasing vs. owning farmland..and offers alternatives and opportunities for farmers today. Join me in exploring Molly’s story. 

Many Forks Farm

Colfax Farm

Berkshire Natural Resources Council

Berkshire Community Land Trust

Green Acres Summer Camps

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Molly Comstock Buzzsprout-17222000 Mon, 26 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3689 land access, farm, farmland, CSA, community supported agriculture, farmer, organic, organic farmer, berkshires, berkshire county, north country, organic farming, agritourism, pick your own, 2 57 full false Creating Sustainable Hunger Relief Right from Your PORCH Creating Sustainable Hunger Relief Right from Your PORCH Send a text

My conversation with Jim Sanders, farmer from Wildflower Lane Farm in NC, was far reaching.  HIs idea around having food advocacy groups who are purchasing produce from retailers and wholesalers shift those funds to pay local farmers to grow for them, has had a tremendous impact on many non profits in the North Carolina area. 

Another one of the non profit organizations that Jim’s idea has reached is called PORCH.  PORCH fights food insecurity by creating sustainable hunger relief programs at the local level. Started in 2010 in Chapel Hill, NC, PORCH has grown into a repeatable model of monthly neighborhood food drives and fresh produce distribution supplying food pantries, schools, and community programs across the country. PORCH’s volunteer network of 50 chapters in 12 states, has contributed more than $12 million dollars in hunger relief.

Porch’s flagship program called PORCH for Pantries consists of running monthly neighborhood food drives to supply non-perishable goods to local food pantries and families in need.  Porch has now  introduced PORCH Fresh which supplements the non-perishable goods with milk, eggs, meat, fruits and vegetables, and uses local farms like Jim’s to support this need. 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Nora Dicker, the Program Manager for PORCH Hillsborough and learning more about how they are connecting and collaborating to impact food security.  Enjoy my conversation with Nora!  And, again, I just want to thank Jim Sanders - as his idea around shifting funds to local farmers to supply local veggies and fruits has had such far reaching impacts… and I am hopeful that these interviews further impact that reach…. 

Porch Communities
Porch Hillsborough

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

My conversation with Jim Sanders, farmer from Wildflower Lane Farm in NC, was far reaching.  HIs idea around having food advocacy groups who are purchasing produce from retailers and wholesalers shift those funds to pay local farmers to grow for them, has had a tremendous impact on many non profits in the North Carolina area. 

Another one of the non profit organizations that Jim’s idea has reached is called PORCH.  PORCH fights food insecurity by creating sustainable hunger relief programs at the local level. Started in 2010 in Chapel Hill, NC, PORCH has grown into a repeatable model of monthly neighborhood food drives and fresh produce distribution supplying food pantries, schools, and community programs across the country. PORCH’s volunteer network of 50 chapters in 12 states, has contributed more than $12 million dollars in hunger relief.

Porch’s flagship program called PORCH for Pantries consists of running monthly neighborhood food drives to supply non-perishable goods to local food pantries and families in need.  Porch has now  introduced PORCH Fresh which supplements the non-perishable goods with milk, eggs, meat, fruits and vegetables, and uses local farms like Jim’s to support this need. 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Nora Dicker, the Program Manager for PORCH Hillsborough and learning more about how they are connecting and collaborating to impact food security.  Enjoy my conversation with Nora!  And, again, I just want to thank Jim Sanders - as his idea around shifting funds to local farmers to supply local veggies and fruits has had such far reaching impacts… and I am hopeful that these interviews further impact that reach…. 

Porch Communities
Porch Hillsborough

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Nora Dicker Buzzsprout-17182187 Mon, 19 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3018 agritourist, food donations, food insecurity, food security, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, vegetables, plantbased, plant-based 2 56 full false A Farm Conversation that Led to a Place at the Table A Farm Conversation that Led to a Place at the Table Send a text

Jim Sanders, farmer from Wildflower Lane Farm in NC, had an idea about growing vegetables and finding a distribution partner for those vegetables.  In my podcast interview with Jim (podcast episode 54), he  told the story about walking into the office of a non profit called TABLE and proposing his idea to the women in the office. What struck me about that story was the fact that those women listened and took action immediately.  They were open to Jim’s idea and took him up on his offer to visit his farm, invest some funds, and take the risk that this could lead to a great opportunity for the people their non profit serves.

In 2006, Joy MacVane began leaving homemade cookies on the sidewalk of her downtown Chapel Hill home for UNC-CH students walking to campus. A year later, she began leaving notes by the goodies inviting students to stop by her house to bake desserts for the nearby soup kitchen. A dozen students showed up to make and deliver cakes. They discussed how much they enjoyed serving at the homeless shelter, expressed interest in local community service and identified hungry kids as a special priority. MacVane shared that concern and learned that there were no weekly food assistance services specifically for children at that time in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro area. In late 2007, she and several of those original students incorporated Table Ministries, Inc., now known as TABLE.

Since  its start in 2008, TABLE has offered “a place at the TABLE” to increasing numbers of local children. Thanks to generous donations of food, funds, and time by campus and community supporters, TABLE has quickly grown.  And now, thanks to Jim’s idea, TABLE Is able to serve fresh, local healthy vegetables and fruits to local children. 

I wanted to speak to the woman, the decision maker, who listened to Jim’s idea on that day when he casually walked into the office and was open to exploring the opportunity with him.  Ashton Tippins, was that woman!  Enjoy my conversation with Ashton Tippins. 

TABLE
Wildflower Lane Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Jim Sanders, farmer from Wildflower Lane Farm in NC, had an idea about growing vegetables and finding a distribution partner for those vegetables.  In my podcast interview with Jim (podcast episode 54), he  told the story about walking into the office of a non profit called TABLE and proposing his idea to the women in the office. What struck me about that story was the fact that those women listened and took action immediately.  They were open to Jim’s idea and took him up on his offer to visit his farm, invest some funds, and take the risk that this could lead to a great opportunity for the people their non profit serves.

In 2006, Joy MacVane began leaving homemade cookies on the sidewalk of her downtown Chapel Hill home for UNC-CH students walking to campus. A year later, she began leaving notes by the goodies inviting students to stop by her house to bake desserts for the nearby soup kitchen. A dozen students showed up to make and deliver cakes. They discussed how much they enjoyed serving at the homeless shelter, expressed interest in local community service and identified hungry kids as a special priority. MacVane shared that concern and learned that there were no weekly food assistance services specifically for children at that time in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro area. In late 2007, she and several of those original students incorporated Table Ministries, Inc., now known as TABLE.

Since  its start in 2008, TABLE has offered “a place at the TABLE” to increasing numbers of local children. Thanks to generous donations of food, funds, and time by campus and community supporters, TABLE has quickly grown.  And now, thanks to Jim’s idea, TABLE Is able to serve fresh, local healthy vegetables and fruits to local children. 

I wanted to speak to the woman, the decision maker, who listened to Jim’s idea on that day when he casually walked into the office and was open to exploring the opportunity with him.  Ashton Tippins, was that woman!  Enjoy my conversation with Ashton Tippins. 

TABLE
Wildflower Lane Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Ashton Tippins Buzzsprout-17140467 Mon, 12 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2458 farmer, farming, agriculture, feeding kids, food donations, north carolina, food security, food insecurity, non profit, farming for a cause, agritourism 2 55 full false A Creative Farming Model to Grow Food for Local Kids in North Carolina A Creative Farming Model to Grow Food for Local Kids in North Carolina Send a text

Jim Sanders, an environmentalist and farmer, is the owner of Wildflower Lane Farm in North Carolina.  Jim has some great stories about how he came into farming and his fun and not so fun experiences with trying to build a farming business. All along, Jim knew and was reminded by some friends, that there had to be a better way, a more sustainable way.

Jim decided to take another approach to feeding local people. The existing system made small scale farming frustrating and difficult.  But what if the money factor were removed from the business model? Jim came up with an idea that would enable him to do what he loved – growing food for people – while removing it from the business cycle that was proving to be unsatisfying. He would do this by shifting non profit funds used to pay for fresh produce from wholesalers and retailers to local farmers who would grow for them.  

He walked into the office of a local non profit called Table, explained his concept, and asked them to try it out with him.  The Executive Director of TABLE, who you will hear from directly in an upcoming episode, after a little due diligence, was open to Jim’s idea, shifted some funds his way, and took the leap of faith.  

Ultimately, this decision reaped so many positive benefits for Jim, Table, and, most critically, the community members that TABLE serves.  Every year, TABLE has shifted more funds to growing with local farmers vs. purchasing produce, demonstrating the strength and impact of Jim’s concept.  In addition, other organizations have also adopted a similar approach by shifting their funds  to work with farmers and local producers  like Jim. 

I am grateful that farmers and creative thinkers like Jim who are willing to walk through that door and put their ideas out there.  Jim’s idea has had a direct impact on food security in North Carolina and beyond. This is also a testament that existing local organizations can and should collaborate and join forces, shift funds to local sourcing, and ultimately increase access to nutritious food for everyone. 

Enjoy my inspiring conversation with Jim Sanders. 

Wildflower Lane Farm - Growing food for local kids
TABLE - feeding local kids
PORCH - setting out to fight hunger


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Jim Sanders, an environmentalist and farmer, is the owner of Wildflower Lane Farm in North Carolina.  Jim has some great stories about how he came into farming and his fun and not so fun experiences with trying to build a farming business. All along, Jim knew and was reminded by some friends, that there had to be a better way, a more sustainable way.

Jim decided to take another approach to feeding local people. The existing system made small scale farming frustrating and difficult.  But what if the money factor were removed from the business model? Jim came up with an idea that would enable him to do what he loved – growing food for people – while removing it from the business cycle that was proving to be unsatisfying. He would do this by shifting non profit funds used to pay for fresh produce from wholesalers and retailers to local farmers who would grow for them.  

He walked into the office of a local non profit called Table, explained his concept, and asked them to try it out with him.  The Executive Director of TABLE, who you will hear from directly in an upcoming episode, after a little due diligence, was open to Jim’s idea, shifted some funds his way, and took the leap of faith.  

Ultimately, this decision reaped so many positive benefits for Jim, Table, and, most critically, the community members that TABLE serves.  Every year, TABLE has shifted more funds to growing with local farmers vs. purchasing produce, demonstrating the strength and impact of Jim’s concept.  In addition, other organizations have also adopted a similar approach by shifting their funds  to work with farmers and local producers  like Jim. 

I am grateful that farmers and creative thinkers like Jim who are willing to walk through that door and put their ideas out there.  Jim’s idea has had a direct impact on food security in North Carolina and beyond. This is also a testament that existing local organizations can and should collaborate and join forces, shift funds to local sourcing, and ultimately increase access to nutritious food for everyone. 

Enjoy my inspiring conversation with Jim Sanders. 

Wildflower Lane Farm - Growing food for local kids
TABLE - feeding local kids
PORCH - setting out to fight hunger


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Jim Sanders Buzzsprout-17090175 Mon, 05 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 4258 farmer, farming, agriculture, non profit, food security, food insecurity, feeding kids, farm, local farm, north carolina farm, agritourism, agritourist 2 54 full false The Journey Comes Full Circle with Jen & Marisa (Part 2) The Journey Comes Full Circle with Jen & Marisa (Part 2) Send a text

So this is my 53rd episode…the 1st episode of Season 2 of the Agri-Tourist Podcast!  This episode is Part 2 of my interview with Marisa about coming full circle.   

I have learned so much during the course of this year…and not just about farming and agriculture… I learned so much about life, about love, about passion and dedication, trusting the journey, making every day count, and about taking that leap of faith.

And I learned all of this from over 50 amazing people from all over the world.  So this episode, along with Part 1, #52, are dedicated to the amazing, inspirational and passionate individuals who allowed me into their lives, their businesses and to become a little part of their journey.  Thank you for all you do!

Join my trusted and dear friend Marisa and I as we continue to explore the last year together and venture into Year 2!  

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

So this is my 53rd episode…the 1st episode of Season 2 of the Agri-Tourist Podcast!  This episode is Part 2 of my interview with Marisa about coming full circle.   

I have learned so much during the course of this year…and not just about farming and agriculture… I learned so much about life, about love, about passion and dedication, trusting the journey, making every day count, and about taking that leap of faith.

And I learned all of this from over 50 amazing people from all over the world.  So this episode, along with Part 1, #52, are dedicated to the amazing, inspirational and passionate individuals who allowed me into their lives, their businesses and to become a little part of their journey.  Thank you for all you do!

Join my trusted and dear friend Marisa and I as we continue to explore the last year together and venture into Year 2!  

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Marisa Pizza Buzzsprout-17007317 Mon, 28 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2811 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, vegetables, plantbased, plant-based 2 53 full false The Journey Comes Full Circle with Jen & Marisa (Part 1) The Journey Comes Full Circle with Jen & Marisa (Part 1) Send a text

So this is my 52nd episode…Part 1! One whole year of podcast episodes…and I have to say that I learned so much during the course of this year…and not just about farming and agriculture. I learned so much about life, about love, about passion and dedication, trusting the journey, making every day count, and about taking that leap of faith.

And I learned all of this from over 50 amazing people from all over the world.  So the next 2 consecutive episodes are dedicated to these amazing, inspirational and passionate individuals who allowed me into their lives, their businesses and to become a little part of their journey.  Thank you for all you do! 

Join my trusted and dear friend Marisa and I for the next 2 weeks as we explore the last year together!  

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

So this is my 52nd episode…Part 1! One whole year of podcast episodes…and I have to say that I learned so much during the course of this year…and not just about farming and agriculture. I learned so much about life, about love, about passion and dedication, trusting the journey, making every day count, and about taking that leap of faith.

And I learned all of this from over 50 amazing people from all over the world.  So the next 2 consecutive episodes are dedicated to these amazing, inspirational and passionate individuals who allowed me into their lives, their businesses and to become a little part of their journey.  Thank you for all you do! 

Join my trusted and dear friend Marisa and I for the next 2 weeks as we explore the last year together!  

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Marisa Pizza Buzzsprout-17007312 Mon, 21 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2861 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, vegetables, plantbased, plant-based 1 52 full false Veteran Farmers, Serving Our Country Twice, by Defending it and Feeding it Veteran Farmers, Serving Our Country Twice, by Defending it and Feeding it Send a text

When I became aware of The Farmer Veteran Coalition, I just had to learn more.  
The Mission of Farmer Veteran Coalition is Mobilizing Veterans to Feed America. 
They are cultivating  a new generation of farmers and food leaders, and developing viable employment and meaningful careers for veterans. They believe that veterans possess the unique skills and character needed to strengthen rural communities and create sustainable food systems. And, most critically, they believe and have demonstrated that agriculture offers purpose, opportunity, and physical and psychological benefits. 

Farmer Veteran Coalition is providing our American veterans opportunities to grow food in America and ultimately feed Americans. I am so moved by the mission and work of this organization. 

Founded by Michael O’Gorman in 2008, O’Gorman believed deeply in American Agriculture and that it was ready to provide great opportunities for the men and women who had put their life on the line for our country.

In November, 2014 the Coalition sponsored the first Farmer Veteran Stakeholders Conference in Des Moines, Iowa. One memorable moment at the conference was a podium shared by ranking members of the USDA, Department of Labor, Small Business Administration, Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs.   For the first time ever, five key departments of the Federal government were sharing ideas about a critical, yet previously ignored, sector of those returning home from service. 

The  vision for the future is an organization that will be around for decades, in every state and continuing to unite the agricultural sector – government, education, private industry, conventional and alternative farming and the veterans themselves.  It will no longer be important to know how and when they began, but that they will be there, offering assistance to all those who chose to serve their country twice – once by defending it and once by feeding it.

I had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Jeanette Lombardo, Executive Director of Farmer’ Veteran Coalition who was selected from ver  300 applicants and has served the mission of this organization for over 5 years.  With a minimal staff, she and her team work to transition veterans into agriculture. Jeanette and her team work tirelessly with over 350 organizations to help fulfill the Coalition’s mission. 

Enjoy my conversation with Jeanette Lombardo…and spread the word about this amazing organization. 

Farmer Veteran Coalition
Homegrown By Heroes

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

When I became aware of The Farmer Veteran Coalition, I just had to learn more.  
The Mission of Farmer Veteran Coalition is Mobilizing Veterans to Feed America. 
They are cultivating  a new generation of farmers and food leaders, and developing viable employment and meaningful careers for veterans. They believe that veterans possess the unique skills and character needed to strengthen rural communities and create sustainable food systems. And, most critically, they believe and have demonstrated that agriculture offers purpose, opportunity, and physical and psychological benefits. 

Farmer Veteran Coalition is providing our American veterans opportunities to grow food in America and ultimately feed Americans. I am so moved by the mission and work of this organization. 

Founded by Michael O’Gorman in 2008, O’Gorman believed deeply in American Agriculture and that it was ready to provide great opportunities for the men and women who had put their life on the line for our country.

In November, 2014 the Coalition sponsored the first Farmer Veteran Stakeholders Conference in Des Moines, Iowa. One memorable moment at the conference was a podium shared by ranking members of the USDA, Department of Labor, Small Business Administration, Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs.   For the first time ever, five key departments of the Federal government were sharing ideas about a critical, yet previously ignored, sector of those returning home from service. 

The  vision for the future is an organization that will be around for decades, in every state and continuing to unite the agricultural sector – government, education, private industry, conventional and alternative farming and the veterans themselves.  It will no longer be important to know how and when they began, but that they will be there, offering assistance to all those who chose to serve their country twice – once by defending it and once by feeding it.

I had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Jeanette Lombardo, Executive Director of Farmer’ Veteran Coalition who was selected from ver  300 applicants and has served the mission of this organization for over 5 years.  With a minimal staff, she and her team work to transition veterans into agriculture. Jeanette and her team work tirelessly with over 350 organizations to help fulfill the Coalition’s mission. 

Enjoy my conversation with Jeanette Lombardo…and spread the word about this amazing organization. 

Farmer Veteran Coalition
Homegrown By Heroes

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Jeanette Lombardo Buzzsprout-16921574 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2499 farming, agriculture, farmer, veteran, veterans, veteran farmer, care farm, free for veterans, learn agriculture, homegrown, homegrown by heroes, peoples gardens, support veterans 1 51 full true Everybody Has the Right to High Quality Produce at Full Well Farm Everybody Has the Right to High Quality Produce at Full Well Farm Send a text

Meg and Laura founded Full Well Farm located in Adams, MA in 2018.  Meg was brought up on the farmland they are now farming on. When chatting with Meg about their background, there seemed to be an initial resistance to farming and becoming a farmer.  However, the pull to being outside every March was too hard to resist.  And the pull to developing a business that provided access to healthy food was also too much to resist.  Hence, although there were some twists and turns along the journey, the evolution of Full Well Farm was inevitable. And I am certainly grateful for that and am sure the local northern Berkshire community is as well.

Meg and Laura have grown a farm with a focus on CSA, or community supported agriculture with both vegetables and flowers.  Full Well Farm is also supporting several food access organizations that have figured out ways to fund their farmers while feeding the community. 

To quote Meg and Laura about their farm: “​Community drives everything we do at Full Well Farm. Our business model is rooted in social justice and the belief that everybody has the right to high quality produce. As a LGBTQIA+ and women owned farm, we strive to create a safe space in our community for all identities.”

This is a very important time to listen to our farmers, figure out how you can help support their sustenance and growth, and take the necessary action to do just that.  When it comes to Full Well Farm, check out their CSA options and sign up today! 

Enjoy my conversation with Meg, one of the founders and farmers from Full Well Farm. 

Full Well Farm
Apply to the Food Security Infrastructure Grant (FSIG) Program

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Meg and Laura founded Full Well Farm located in Adams, MA in 2018.  Meg was brought up on the farmland they are now farming on. When chatting with Meg about their background, there seemed to be an initial resistance to farming and becoming a farmer.  However, the pull to being outside every March was too hard to resist.  And the pull to developing a business that provided access to healthy food was also too much to resist.  Hence, although there were some twists and turns along the journey, the evolution of Full Well Farm was inevitable. And I am certainly grateful for that and am sure the local northern Berkshire community is as well.

Meg and Laura have grown a farm with a focus on CSA, or community supported agriculture with both vegetables and flowers.  Full Well Farm is also supporting several food access organizations that have figured out ways to fund their farmers while feeding the community. 

To quote Meg and Laura about their farm: “​Community drives everything we do at Full Well Farm. Our business model is rooted in social justice and the belief that everybody has the right to high quality produce. As a LGBTQIA+ and women owned farm, we strive to create a safe space in our community for all identities.”

This is a very important time to listen to our farmers, figure out how you can help support their sustenance and growth, and take the necessary action to do just that.  When it comes to Full Well Farm, check out their CSA options and sign up today! 

Enjoy my conversation with Meg, one of the founders and farmers from Full Well Farm. 

Full Well Farm
Apply to the Food Security Infrastructure Grant (FSIG) Program

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Meg Bantle Buzzsprout-16914774 Mon, 07 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3825 farm, farming, agritourism, agriculture, CSA, community supported agriculture, flowers, flower, Ranunculus, hoop house, farm, flower csa, vegetables, growing, farmers, food access, food security 1 50 full false Johnson Gains Ground, Growing Food & Community to Create More Food Security in MA Johnson Gains Ground, Growing Food & Community to Create More Food Security in MA Send a text

The USDA defines food security as having "access at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life for all household members" and very low food insecurity is classified as " where one or more household members experience reduced food intake and disrupted eating patterns at times during the year because of limited money or other resources."  In 2023, the USDA reported national food insecurity at just under 18%. 

Specific to Massachusetts:

  • In Feb 2024, 17.9% of Massachusetts households reported food insecurity, with a rate of 22.9% among households with children.
  • SNAP enrollment in Massachusetts has been on the rise with over 1 million people and over 640,000 households enrolled. Snap stands for supplemental nutrition assistance program. 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Jennifer Johnson, the Executive Director of Gaining Ground.  Located in Concord, MA, Gaining Ground is located on a few acres of historic farmland.  In short, Gaining Ground grows food and gives it away to people who need it, for FREE. 

Gaining Ground raises the funding to grow farm-fresh veggies, fruits and flowers with the help of a paid farm staff and over 3800 volunteers.  They work with different organizations including shelters, pantries and meal programs who use and distribute the food they grow. 

Join me for an inspiring conversation with Jennifer about how Gaining Ground found her and the evolution of this amazing, giving organization that serves the greater Boston area. 

Gaining Ground

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

The USDA defines food security as having "access at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life for all household members" and very low food insecurity is classified as " where one or more household members experience reduced food intake and disrupted eating patterns at times during the year because of limited money or other resources."  In 2023, the USDA reported national food insecurity at just under 18%. 

Specific to Massachusetts:

  • In Feb 2024, 17.9% of Massachusetts households reported food insecurity, with a rate of 22.9% among households with children.
  • SNAP enrollment in Massachusetts has been on the rise with over 1 million people and over 640,000 households enrolled. Snap stands for supplemental nutrition assistance program. 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Jennifer Johnson, the Executive Director of Gaining Ground.  Located in Concord, MA, Gaining Ground is located on a few acres of historic farmland.  In short, Gaining Ground grows food and gives it away to people who need it, for FREE. 

Gaining Ground raises the funding to grow farm-fresh veggies, fruits and flowers with the help of a paid farm staff and over 3800 volunteers.  They work with different organizations including shelters, pantries and meal programs who use and distribute the food they grow. 

Join me for an inspiring conversation with Jennifer about how Gaining Ground found her and the evolution of this amazing, giving organization that serves the greater Boston area. 

Gaining Ground

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Jennifer Johnson Buzzsprout-16882978 Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3520 farming, farm, food donations, growing, not for profit, non profit, farmland, volunteer at farm, learn farming, agriculture, food insecurity, food security, SNAP, massachussetts, concord 1 49 full false It's All About 'Morals Over Money' at The Farmyard It's All About 'Morals Over Money' at The Farmyard Send a text

She is a passionate farm entrepreneur from Maryland…driven to preserve her farmland and build a thriving Farmyard business.

Renee Wilson was born to a teacher and dairy farmer, she was a 4H member and then earned an education in TV production and marketing during college…but her heart and passion was in agriculture. She returned to her roots and leveraged her skills to identify how to secure and access land as a young farmer.

 It started as a seasonal roadside farmstand that has evolved into what she now calls The Farmyard, a full year farm, operating on 40 acres.  Renee opens her farm to the public to give positive and real agriculture  experiences, connects consumers with farmers, and give kids the same experiences she had as a kid regardless of their income level…..for free. 

However, she is running a business and generates revenue from riding lessons, Horsemanship programs, field trips, and birthday parties.

Renee’s passion has not gone unnoticed.  She reveals a story about someone who had an impact on her early on…someone who’s kindness stuck with her.  It was the first time she told this story publicly.  Renee’s story inspired me to take action.  I did a little research on the person Renee mentions and might have a small follow-up to her story…please listen until the very end! 

Renee is a force in her community and has an innate ability to connect, involve and give back. You will love her energy and passion….I certainly did.  Enjoy my conversation with Renee Wilson.

The Farmyard
4-H

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

She is a passionate farm entrepreneur from Maryland…driven to preserve her farmland and build a thriving Farmyard business.

Renee Wilson was born to a teacher and dairy farmer, she was a 4H member and then earned an education in TV production and marketing during college…but her heart and passion was in agriculture. She returned to her roots and leveraged her skills to identify how to secure and access land as a young farmer.

 It started as a seasonal roadside farmstand that has evolved into what she now calls The Farmyard, a full year farm, operating on 40 acres.  Renee opens her farm to the public to give positive and real agriculture  experiences, connects consumers with farmers, and give kids the same experiences she had as a kid regardless of their income level…..for free. 

However, she is running a business and generates revenue from riding lessons, Horsemanship programs, field trips, and birthday parties.

Renee’s passion has not gone unnoticed.  She reveals a story about someone who had an impact on her early on…someone who’s kindness stuck with her.  It was the first time she told this story publicly.  Renee’s story inspired me to take action.  I did a little research on the person Renee mentions and might have a small follow-up to her story…please listen until the very end! 

Renee is a force in her community and has an innate ability to connect, involve and give back. You will love her energy and passion….I certainly did.  Enjoy my conversation with Renee Wilson.

The Farmyard
4-H

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Renee Wilson Buzzsprout-16825067 Mon, 24 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2000 farm, farming, agritourism, maryland, animals, farm birthday parties, farm volunteers, 4H, land access, agriculture, farm business 1 48 full false Heart & Soil Makes Healthy Food Accessible To All Heart & Soil Makes Healthy Food Accessible To All Send a text

Kristen Tool and I have something very important in common….we want to connect ALL people to real, healthy, nutritious food….sometimes that food is harvested right from the farm and other times it is made into nutritious soups.  

Caring for and stewarding land has been a lifelong dream of Kristen’s. She and her husband Chris have been working to restore Olsen Farm, her husband’s family farm in Lanesborough, MA where they raise chickens, keep honeybees, and grow fruit, veggies and herbs.  

Kristen worked as an Early Education Studio Art Teacher, website designer and writer for Mother Earth News Blog. Kristen has her BFA in Textile Design and you will also find her creating art using natural, found and recycled materials.

However, during COVID an expanded farm mission unfolded for Kristen. When COVID-19 struck in spring 2020, people were having trouble locating fresh food and experiencing heightened health risks.. Kristen ran a pilot project through her own farm to provide local food to seniors.Out of that pilot,  Heart & Soil Collective was born with a mission to connect people to the land where their food grows, making healthy food and hands-on nature experiences accessible to all.

This Collective now collaborates with several other farms in the area to supply and deliver healthy food,  and prepare and deliver soups for seniors. Kristen has worked diligently  to develop a unique business model to support her farmers and her community.  As a non profit, Kristen faces the demands of always needing to create innovative ways to generate funds to retain and expand her much needed food programs.  Learn more about Kristen’s inspirational mission and about how you can directly help her to continue her mission.

Enjoy my conversation with Kristen Toole. 

Contribute to the  'Locally Grown To Local Homes' Crowdfunding Campaign
Heart & Soil Website

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Kristen Tool and I have something very important in common….we want to connect ALL people to real, healthy, nutritious food….sometimes that food is harvested right from the farm and other times it is made into nutritious soups.  

Caring for and stewarding land has been a lifelong dream of Kristen’s. She and her husband Chris have been working to restore Olsen Farm, her husband’s family farm in Lanesborough, MA where they raise chickens, keep honeybees, and grow fruit, veggies and herbs.  

Kristen worked as an Early Education Studio Art Teacher, website designer and writer for Mother Earth News Blog. Kristen has her BFA in Textile Design and you will also find her creating art using natural, found and recycled materials.

However, during COVID an expanded farm mission unfolded for Kristen. When COVID-19 struck in spring 2020, people were having trouble locating fresh food and experiencing heightened health risks.. Kristen ran a pilot project through her own farm to provide local food to seniors.Out of that pilot,  Heart & Soil Collective was born with a mission to connect people to the land where their food grows, making healthy food and hands-on nature experiences accessible to all.

This Collective now collaborates with several other farms in the area to supply and deliver healthy food,  and prepare and deliver soups for seniors. Kristen has worked diligently  to develop a unique business model to support her farmers and her community.  As a non profit, Kristen faces the demands of always needing to create innovative ways to generate funds to retain and expand her much needed food programs.  Learn more about Kristen’s inspirational mission and about how you can directly help her to continue her mission.

Enjoy my conversation with Kristen Toole. 

Contribute to the  'Locally Grown To Local Homes' Crowdfunding Campaign
Heart & Soil Website

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Kristen Tool Buzzsprout-16783245 Mon, 17 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3440 soup donations, berkshires, berkshire county, food donations, donate food, seniors, food non profit, farming, farmrers, small farms, agritourism 1 47 full false A Craft Beer & Apple Cider Tour with Dr. Alison Feeney A Craft Beer & Apple Cider Tour with Dr. Alison Feeney Send a text

Craft Beer and Cider….both wins for the agritourism industry.  And it’s actually less about the alcohol and more about the sense of community and connection that it brings. 

Dr. Alison Feeney is a Professor in the Geography and Earth Science Department at Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania. She blends work with pleasure as she travels around her state of Pennsylvania and beyond to research craft breweries, apple cider mills, and other spirit destinations.  

Allison has been asked to research so many interesting topics around craft beer trails and the growth of experiential tourism.  These types of tourism experiences have different names  - we hear terms like gastronomic tourism, food tourism, agritourism, wine tourism, and beer tourism. We find ourselves traveling to farms, vineyards, breweries, cider mills, trade shows, and farmers markets to savor the foods and beverages, and immerse  in local traditions, cultures, and communities. 

During this podcast, Dr. Alison Feeney and I explore many of her craft beer and cider research projects and their findings.  She has recommended destinations that are definitely worth a visit and craft beer favorites that you need to experience. Enjoy my intriguing conversation with Professor Alison Feeney while she takes us on a craft beer and cider journey. 

For the Love of Beer: Pennsylvania's Breweries by Dr. Alison Feeney|
"Marketing agritourism for the American cider culture” in Journal of Tourism Insights: Vol. 10: Iss. 1, Article 6.
Beer-trail Maps and the Growth of Experiential Tourism
Alison E. Feeney’s research while affiliated with Shippensburg University and other places
Inventory & Analysis of Short Term Rentals in Pennsylvania (Executive Summary)
Dr. Alison Feeney - - CV

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Craft Beer and Cider….both wins for the agritourism industry.  And it’s actually less about the alcohol and more about the sense of community and connection that it brings. 

Dr. Alison Feeney is a Professor in the Geography and Earth Science Department at Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania. She blends work with pleasure as she travels around her state of Pennsylvania and beyond to research craft breweries, apple cider mills, and other spirit destinations.  

Allison has been asked to research so many interesting topics around craft beer trails and the growth of experiential tourism.  These types of tourism experiences have different names  - we hear terms like gastronomic tourism, food tourism, agritourism, wine tourism, and beer tourism. We find ourselves traveling to farms, vineyards, breweries, cider mills, trade shows, and farmers markets to savor the foods and beverages, and immerse  in local traditions, cultures, and communities. 

During this podcast, Dr. Alison Feeney and I explore many of her craft beer and cider research projects and their findings.  She has recommended destinations that are definitely worth a visit and craft beer favorites that you need to experience. Enjoy my intriguing conversation with Professor Alison Feeney while she takes us on a craft beer and cider journey. 

For the Love of Beer: Pennsylvania's Breweries by Dr. Alison Feeney|
"Marketing agritourism for the American cider culture” in Journal of Tourism Insights: Vol. 10: Iss. 1, Article 6.
Beer-trail Maps and the Growth of Experiential Tourism
Alison E. Feeney’s research while affiliated with Shippensburg University and other places
Inventory & Analysis of Short Term Rentals in Pennsylvania (Executive Summary)
Dr. Alison Feeney - - CV

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Dr. Alison Feeney Buzzsprout-16755763 Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3453 craft beer, apple cider, beer tourism, agritourism, hops, apples, apple farming, beer tours, cider mills, cider tasting, vineyard tours, pennsylvania, pennsylvania craft beer 1 46 full false Experience West Virginia's Thrilling White Water and Agritourism of Tawney Farm Experience West Virginia's Thrilling White Water and Agritourism of Tawney Farm Send a text

Have you ever heard of the New River Gorge or the Gauley River?  Well, if you’ve ever been into the white water rafting scene, you have heard one of these West Virginia rivers and probably rafted it!  The New River Gorge is amazing in the spring, but there is nothing that compares to the fall dam releases of the Gauley River, entering into class 5 rapids right from the very start of your rafting adventure!  Speaking of a natural high….

So when I saw an agritourism farm and campground that was located on the Gauley River pop up on my instagram I had to reach out!  It brought back so many of my white water rafting adventure memories!

Susan Tawney and her husband James own Tawney Farm, a small-scale wool sheep farm in the Mountain Lakes region of central West Virginia. Their sheep farm property offers a unique alternative to the overcrowded commercial campgrounds. Adjacent to the beautiful Gauley River National Recreation Area and just a short drive to the New River Gorge National Park, their 129 acre farm lies nestled in between two beautiful mountains--one of them named Panther Mountain--in the Gauley River gorge.  You can even learn how to felt wool while staying there! 

In addition to all the river adventures that await visitors, Tawney Farm is also full of civil war history and is the perfect spot for nature lovers, hikers, and bird watchers.  
Let’s take you on an adventure to the white water and majestic gorges of West Virginia.  Enjoy my conversation with Susan Tawney. 

Tawney Farm
Gauley River Wild & Woolly Primitive Campground
New River Gorge National Park
HipCamp


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Have you ever heard of the New River Gorge or the Gauley River?  Well, if you’ve ever been into the white water rafting scene, you have heard one of these West Virginia rivers and probably rafted it!  The New River Gorge is amazing in the spring, but there is nothing that compares to the fall dam releases of the Gauley River, entering into class 5 rapids right from the very start of your rafting adventure!  Speaking of a natural high….

So when I saw an agritourism farm and campground that was located on the Gauley River pop up on my instagram I had to reach out!  It brought back so many of my white water rafting adventure memories!

Susan Tawney and her husband James own Tawney Farm, a small-scale wool sheep farm in the Mountain Lakes region of central West Virginia. Their sheep farm property offers a unique alternative to the overcrowded commercial campgrounds. Adjacent to the beautiful Gauley River National Recreation Area and just a short drive to the New River Gorge National Park, their 129 acre farm lies nestled in between two beautiful mountains--one of them named Panther Mountain--in the Gauley River gorge.  You can even learn how to felt wool while staying there! 

In addition to all the river adventures that await visitors, Tawney Farm is also full of civil war history and is the perfect spot for nature lovers, hikers, and bird watchers.  
Let’s take you on an adventure to the white water and majestic gorges of West Virginia.  Enjoy my conversation with Susan Tawney. 

Tawney Farm
Gauley River Wild & Woolly Primitive Campground
New River Gorge National Park
HipCamp


Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Susan Tawney Buzzsprout-16718093 Mon, 03 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3783 west virginia, white water rafting, kayaking, gauley river, new river, new river gorge, new river bridge, campground, camping, river camping, hiking, Fayetteville WV, Summersville, West Virginia 1 45 full false Only 90 US Farms Grow Tea and Maryland's Lori Baker is One of Them Only 90 US Farms Grow Tea and Maryland's Lori Baker is One of Them Send a text

Did you know that there are about 1.8 million tea growers around the world? The leading tea-producing countries include Argentina, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, and Taiwan. The U.S. trails behind the 6 million tons of global tea production,  producing only about 90 to 100 tons a year. And there are about 80 to 90 tea farms spread across 17 states in the U.S., with most of the tea growers located in Hawaii. 

Meet Lori Baker …a farmer and artist. Lori is one of the owners of Heron’s Meadow Farm located in Woodbine Maryland.  Lori and her husband Bob grow tea under the company name BLTeas.  Growing tea in Maryland is not an easy feat mainly due to the cold temperatures.  Knowing the statistics around growing teas in the US and growing teas on the East Coast of the US, Lori and her husband knew what they were up against,  but they took on the challenge anyway.  

The couple had been contemplating an agricultural venture. Lori, an electrical engineer for 30 years, had sold her company and knew one thing for certain: She wanted to focus on farming for the next chapter of her life. She has always loved growing things, and loved watching nature do its miraculous thing. SheI feels at peace when she’s digging in the dirt or planting seeds and just feels a connection with nature. 

During the winter months Lori focuses on her art…specifically her pottery…her teapots and mugs are the perfect compliment to her home grown teas. Lori’s story is not an easy one.  As you will learn, Lori has survived 2 kidney transplants and now has a renewed energy and focus for her farm. An amazing story and a truly amazing woman - enjoy my conversation with Lori  Baker. 

BLTeas Store
MudPi Studios (Lori's Pottery Business)
Heron's Meadow Farm Facebook
Email Lori to Join their Newsletter @ Lori.blteas@gmail.com

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Did you know that there are about 1.8 million tea growers around the world? The leading tea-producing countries include Argentina, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, and Taiwan. The U.S. trails behind the 6 million tons of global tea production,  producing only about 90 to 100 tons a year. And there are about 80 to 90 tea farms spread across 17 states in the U.S., with most of the tea growers located in Hawaii. 

Meet Lori Baker …a farmer and artist. Lori is one of the owners of Heron’s Meadow Farm located in Woodbine Maryland.  Lori and her husband Bob grow tea under the company name BLTeas.  Growing tea in Maryland is not an easy feat mainly due to the cold temperatures.  Knowing the statistics around growing teas in the US and growing teas on the East Coast of the US, Lori and her husband knew what they were up against,  but they took on the challenge anyway.  

The couple had been contemplating an agricultural venture. Lori, an electrical engineer for 30 years, had sold her company and knew one thing for certain: She wanted to focus on farming for the next chapter of her life. She has always loved growing things, and loved watching nature do its miraculous thing. SheI feels at peace when she’s digging in the dirt or planting seeds and just feels a connection with nature. 

During the winter months Lori focuses on her art…specifically her pottery…her teapots and mugs are the perfect compliment to her home grown teas. Lori’s story is not an easy one.  As you will learn, Lori has survived 2 kidney transplants and now has a renewed energy and focus for her farm. An amazing story and a truly amazing woman - enjoy my conversation with Lori  Baker. 

BLTeas Store
MudPi Studios (Lori's Pottery Business)
Heron's Meadow Farm Facebook
Email Lori to Join their Newsletter @ Lori.blteas@gmail.com

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Lori Baker Buzzsprout-16677821 Mon, 24 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3692 tea, tea farm, agriculture, growing tea, farm, farming, maryland, maryland farm, farmer, pottery, teapots, tea events, flowers, flower farm, herons meadow 1 44 full false Giany's Leap of Faith & Focus on Growing Food Impacts South Carolina Children Giany's Leap of Faith & Focus on Growing Food Impacts South Carolina Children Send a text

I’ve taken leaps of faith in the past, but nothing like Giany Guedjo, the Executive Director at Carolina Human Reinvestment.  Giany was an accountant at an orphanage in Benin, West Africa.  But Giany wanted more for himself and his expanding family.  He entered an immigration lottery to come to the US….and he was selected.  And that’s when the leap of faith really began…showing up in New York, not proficient in English, with no real home and job to go to, a one and a half year old child, and a pregnant wife. And now, many years later, a 2nd Master degree later, Giany is heading up a non profit organization in Georgetown County, South Carolina that is having a significant impact on the children of incarcerated parents through various programs, mainly centered around growing food.  

And the impact is not only on these families, but the food his organization grows is having a significant impact on the greater community who is struggling to put nutritious food on their tables.  Yes, it was a leap of faith that Giany took and continued to take over the years….and still continues to take to this day.  He also said that his journey also required some real patience along the way. 

The main focus of my discussion with Giany is around his journey and the mission and evolution of Carolina Human Reinvestment. You will also see that in order to sustain and grow all the good that Carolina Human Reinvestment is doing, Giany is now using a bit of agritourism through a successful farm to table dinner fundraiser.  And I think that if he carefully expands those farm to table, agritourism opportunities and shows off all the amazing and highly effective farming and hydroponic systems that they created, he has a unique opportunity to help sustain and grow his impactful programs.

Thank you to Giany, Kathy and his whole team of workers and volunteers….you are doing such impactful and meaningful work for your community and to make this world a better and healthier place.  Enjoy my conversation with Giany Guedjo!

Carolina Human Reinvestment (CHRSC)
Watch Video Tour of CHRSC Greenhouse & Hydroponic Setup

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I’ve taken leaps of faith in the past, but nothing like Giany Guedjo, the Executive Director at Carolina Human Reinvestment.  Giany was an accountant at an orphanage in Benin, West Africa.  But Giany wanted more for himself and his expanding family.  He entered an immigration lottery to come to the US….and he was selected.  And that’s when the leap of faith really began…showing up in New York, not proficient in English, with no real home and job to go to, a one and a half year old child, and a pregnant wife. And now, many years later, a 2nd Master degree later, Giany is heading up a non profit organization in Georgetown County, South Carolina that is having a significant impact on the children of incarcerated parents through various programs, mainly centered around growing food.  

And the impact is not only on these families, but the food his organization grows is having a significant impact on the greater community who is struggling to put nutritious food on their tables.  Yes, it was a leap of faith that Giany took and continued to take over the years….and still continues to take to this day.  He also said that his journey also required some real patience along the way. 

The main focus of my discussion with Giany is around his journey and the mission and evolution of Carolina Human Reinvestment. You will also see that in order to sustain and grow all the good that Carolina Human Reinvestment is doing, Giany is now using a bit of agritourism through a successful farm to table dinner fundraiser.  And I think that if he carefully expands those farm to table, agritourism opportunities and shows off all the amazing and highly effective farming and hydroponic systems that they created, he has a unique opportunity to help sustain and grow his impactful programs.

Thank you to Giany, Kathy and his whole team of workers and volunteers….you are doing such impactful and meaningful work for your community and to make this world a better and healthier place.  Enjoy my conversation with Giany Guedjo!

Carolina Human Reinvestment (CHRSC)
Watch Video Tour of CHRSC Greenhouse & Hydroponic Setup

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Giany Guedjo Buzzsprout-16629595 Mon, 17 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 4523 south carolina, food donations, community garden, community giving, farm, farming, farm donations, food program, garden, gardening program, kids garden, farm to table, healthy food 1 43 full false Tom & Monica's Shared Vision & Adventure at Goodnow Farms Chocolate Tom & Monica's Shared Vision & Adventure at Goodnow Farms Chocolate Send a text

They believe that great craft chocolate is “true to the bean,” – that the flavors apparent in the bar reflect the flavors hidden in the cacao bean. Like coffee beans and wine grapes, different cacao beans have different flavors. Discovering those flavors is one of the joys Tom & Monica feel when making (and eating) single-origin craft chocolate!

Tom and Monica are the owners of Goodnow Farms Chocolate. They enjoyed working together and wanted to have a shared vision and adventure while raising their two children.  And that shared vision and adventure was through connecting people to where their chocolate comes from.  Goodnow Farms chocolate is made in their 225-year old farm factory in Sudbury, MA. They offer scheduled factory tours in the spring and fall - you can check out their website to sign up.  Originally, they started making chocolate in their Los Angeles apartment out of a desire to eat more high quality chocolate. They couldn’t find reliable, local chocolate sources so they figured they would make it themselves. It took them a few years to perfect their chocolate recipes… but when they did,  they decided to move to MA to build their chocolate factory. 

Tom and Monica’s bars have a unique appeal for many reasons but one being that they produce their own cocoa butter, something that many bean to bar chocolate makers do not do. I’ve had the opportunity to savor several GoodNow Farms single origin chocolate bars. Tom will reveal his and Monica’s favorites as well! I will tempt you with two of their intriguing bar names….Passion Fruit & Cream & Caramelized Onion….mmmmmm!

Enjoy my chat with Tom and Monica from Goodnow Farms Chocolate.

Goodnow Farms Chocolate
Goodnow Farms Chocolate Gifts
Goodnow Farms Hot Cocoa

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

They believe that great craft chocolate is “true to the bean,” – that the flavors apparent in the bar reflect the flavors hidden in the cacao bean. Like coffee beans and wine grapes, different cacao beans have different flavors. Discovering those flavors is one of the joys Tom & Monica feel when making (and eating) single-origin craft chocolate!

Tom and Monica are the owners of Goodnow Farms Chocolate. They enjoyed working together and wanted to have a shared vision and adventure while raising their two children.  And that shared vision and adventure was through connecting people to where their chocolate comes from.  Goodnow Farms chocolate is made in their 225-year old farm factory in Sudbury, MA. They offer scheduled factory tours in the spring and fall - you can check out their website to sign up.  Originally, they started making chocolate in their Los Angeles apartment out of a desire to eat more high quality chocolate. They couldn’t find reliable, local chocolate sources so they figured they would make it themselves. It took them a few years to perfect their chocolate recipes… but when they did,  they decided to move to MA to build their chocolate factory. 

Tom and Monica’s bars have a unique appeal for many reasons but one being that they produce their own cocoa butter, something that many bean to bar chocolate makers do not do. I’ve had the opportunity to savor several GoodNow Farms single origin chocolate bars. Tom will reveal his and Monica’s favorites as well! I will tempt you with two of their intriguing bar names….Passion Fruit & Cream & Caramelized Onion….mmmmmm!

Enjoy my chat with Tom and Monica from Goodnow Farms Chocolate.

Goodnow Farms Chocolate
Goodnow Farms Chocolate Gifts
Goodnow Farms Hot Cocoa

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Monica & Tom Rogan Buzzsprout-16582465 Mon, 10 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3220 chocolate, cacao, cacao farm, cacao farming, chocolate tasting, chocolate factory, specialty chocolate, craft chocolate, bean to bar chocolate, Massachusetts, chocolate maker, chocolate drinks, chocolate teas, chocolate bars 1 42 full false Flexible, Innovative Farm Funding & Climate Resilience are Priorities for Berkshire Ag Ventures Flexible, Innovative Farm Funding & Climate Resilience are Priorities for Berkshire Ag Ventures Send a text

As I speak to farmers from around the US and beyond, I am always interested in where they are garnering support from.  Farmers enter into farming from all different backgrounds. Some need help securing land, some need financial support, some need marketing and accounting support, and some need help with farming skills.  And we would assume that those support systems would be available.  Well that is not always the case.  However, in some areas, that is definitely the case and the level of support for farmers and the agricultural industry is very present, active and constantly innovating ways to support and help the farming community.

Berkshire Agricultural Ventures is one of those non profit companies that is doing just that. They are on a mission to support the development and viability of local farms and food businesses in order to build a thriving and equitable local food economy in the Berkshire-Taconic region in MA, CT, and NY. And they do this by providing flexible and innovative financial and technical resources to farmers and local food businesses. In this podcast episode you will meet the Executive Director of Berkshire Ag Ventures, Rebecca Busansky and Ben Crockett, Program Manager for their Climate Smart Ag Program. 

Rebecca’s past work focused on helping local farms thrive and increasing food access. Before leading Berkshire Ag Ventures, Rebecca led efforts to build an innovative community investment vehicle that provided financing and technical assistance to farm and local food entrepreneurs in Western MA. She also managed the Mass Food Trust Program since its inception in 2018 which provides financing to increase the availability of affordable healthy food in underserved communities across the Commonwealth. Rebecca works hard to understand the needs of today’s farmers and leads her non profit to deliver products and services to meet and exceed those needs.

Ben Crockett works diligently with local farmers to help them understand and manage their soil, which is the most important ingredient in farming.  He is also focused on helping them manage and plan for changing climate demands which is top of mind for many farmers today. 

Berkshire Ag Ventures should be a model employed by every US county.  First we need to understand, recognize and appreciate the importance of farmers to our local and regional food systems…and then we need to figure out how to best support their success.  It’s in all of our best interests to do that.

My conversation with Rebecca and Ben took place a few weeks prior to the inauguration. Just a note that some of the programs that we discussed may be impacted by the government changes that are taking place. 

Berkshire Agriculture Ventures
Land for Good
American Farmland Trust

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

As I speak to farmers from around the US and beyond, I am always interested in where they are garnering support from.  Farmers enter into farming from all different backgrounds. Some need help securing land, some need financial support, some need marketing and accounting support, and some need help with farming skills.  And we would assume that those support systems would be available.  Well that is not always the case.  However, in some areas, that is definitely the case and the level of support for farmers and the agricultural industry is very present, active and constantly innovating ways to support and help the farming community.

Berkshire Agricultural Ventures is one of those non profit companies that is doing just that. They are on a mission to support the development and viability of local farms and food businesses in order to build a thriving and equitable local food economy in the Berkshire-Taconic region in MA, CT, and NY. And they do this by providing flexible and innovative financial and technical resources to farmers and local food businesses. In this podcast episode you will meet the Executive Director of Berkshire Ag Ventures, Rebecca Busansky and Ben Crockett, Program Manager for their Climate Smart Ag Program. 

Rebecca’s past work focused on helping local farms thrive and increasing food access. Before leading Berkshire Ag Ventures, Rebecca led efforts to build an innovative community investment vehicle that provided financing and technical assistance to farm and local food entrepreneurs in Western MA. She also managed the Mass Food Trust Program since its inception in 2018 which provides financing to increase the availability of affordable healthy food in underserved communities across the Commonwealth. Rebecca works hard to understand the needs of today’s farmers and leads her non profit to deliver products and services to meet and exceed those needs.

Ben Crockett works diligently with local farmers to help them understand and manage their soil, which is the most important ingredient in farming.  He is also focused on helping them manage and plan for changing climate demands which is top of mind for many farmers today. 

Berkshire Ag Ventures should be a model employed by every US county.  First we need to understand, recognize and appreciate the importance of farmers to our local and regional food systems…and then we need to figure out how to best support their success.  It’s in all of our best interests to do that.

My conversation with Rebecca and Ben took place a few weeks prior to the inauguration. Just a note that some of the programs that we discussed may be impacted by the government changes that are taking place. 

Berkshire Agriculture Ventures
Land for Good
American Farmland Trust

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Rebecca Busansky/Ben Crockett Buzzsprout-16538537 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 4001 agriculture, ag funding, farm funding, farmer, farmers, berkshires, berkshire county, massachussetts, agriculture, growing, farm funding, farm grants, farm programs, soil health, climate, ventures, farmland, agritourism 1 41 full false Wormfarm Institute Affirms the Parallels Between Farming & Art Making Wormfarm Institute Affirms the Parallels Between Farming & Art Making Send a text

Ever wonder how to creatively bridge art and agriculture together…Donna Neuwirth and Jay Salinas have mastered this creative bridge.. And they not only have mastered integrating art and agriculture, they have also set the stage for lifelong connections to form, way beyond their company’s many inspiring projects.

After many years working in art and theater in Chicago, Donna Neuwirth and Jay Salinas moved to a farm in the Driftless Region of southwest Wisconsin and learned to grow vegetables.  Don’t worry, I asked about what the Driftless Region is and Jay did a great job of describing it to me!  Stay tuned for that.

Seduced by life in the soil (I loved this phrase written by Donna & Jay and couldn’t wait to repeat it!!)  and struck by parallels between farming and art making, Jay and Donna formed Wormfarm Institute and created an Artist Residency Program in the year 2000. They slowly transformed a dairy barn into a studio space and initiated a CSA farm-share program. Each year, resident artists of all disciplines are carefully selected to come to the farm from across the country to grow food, eat well, and make art. Out of these seasonal infusions of creative energy, grounded in the most fundamental activity—farming—Wormfarm’s public-facing programs such as the biennial Farm/Art DTour emerged.  DTour is spelled DTour. It started out as a real Detour from another art tour. A little story that Jay explains in our interview! This Farm/Art DTour is probably not what you are thinking it is.  It is actual art (pretty big art) built onto farmland that can be viewed via a vehicle tour.  Jay also tells us about their Fermentation Festival and how that helped set the stage for the Art DTour.

I interviewed Jay while he and Donna were on hiatus from the Wisconsin Farm, spending time in their second home, Mexico City.  Jay describes the energy he feels at the Wisconsin Farm and the energy he derives from being in Mexico City. He hopes to create more connections from his Wisconsin home to his home away from home in Mexico City. 

Enjoy my conversation with Jay Salinas from Wormfarm Institute. 

Wormfarm Institute
Farm/Art DTour
Art Residency Program
Smithsonian Museum on Main Street

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Ever wonder how to creatively bridge art and agriculture together…Donna Neuwirth and Jay Salinas have mastered this creative bridge.. And they not only have mastered integrating art and agriculture, they have also set the stage for lifelong connections to form, way beyond their company’s many inspiring projects.

After many years working in art and theater in Chicago, Donna Neuwirth and Jay Salinas moved to a farm in the Driftless Region of southwest Wisconsin and learned to grow vegetables.  Don’t worry, I asked about what the Driftless Region is and Jay did a great job of describing it to me!  Stay tuned for that.

Seduced by life in the soil (I loved this phrase written by Donna & Jay and couldn’t wait to repeat it!!)  and struck by parallels between farming and art making, Jay and Donna formed Wormfarm Institute and created an Artist Residency Program in the year 2000. They slowly transformed a dairy barn into a studio space and initiated a CSA farm-share program. Each year, resident artists of all disciplines are carefully selected to come to the farm from across the country to grow food, eat well, and make art. Out of these seasonal infusions of creative energy, grounded in the most fundamental activity—farming—Wormfarm’s public-facing programs such as the biennial Farm/Art DTour emerged.  DTour is spelled DTour. It started out as a real Detour from another art tour. A little story that Jay explains in our interview! This Farm/Art DTour is probably not what you are thinking it is.  It is actual art (pretty big art) built onto farmland that can be viewed via a vehicle tour.  Jay also tells us about their Fermentation Festival and how that helped set the stage for the Art DTour.

I interviewed Jay while he and Donna were on hiatus from the Wisconsin Farm, spending time in their second home, Mexico City.  Jay describes the energy he feels at the Wisconsin Farm and the energy he derives from being in Mexico City. He hopes to create more connections from his Wisconsin home to his home away from home in Mexico City. 

Enjoy my conversation with Jay Salinas from Wormfarm Institute. 

Wormfarm Institute
Farm/Art DTour
Art Residency Program
Smithsonian Museum on Main Street

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Jay Salinas Buzzsprout-16505023 Mon, 27 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 4232 wisconsin, fermentation, fermentation fest, festival, art tour, art and ag tour, agriculture, art residency, wisconsin farm, farming, CSA, artists, art dtour, art tour 1 40 full false Travel Back in Time While Kayaking & Biking with Blackwater Adventures Travel Back in Time While Kayaking & Biking with Blackwater Adventures Send a text

When I was a kid I did not like history class, or as we called it, social studies.  For me, it felt like the classes were about memorizing textbook material and dates.  I was not lucky enough to have teachers that made it more exciting to learn about history and its importance, relevance, and connection to the now.  However, as an adult, I have a whole new appreciation for history, learning about history and even teaching history.  I am on the Board of my local historical society, have developed classes for our 1850 one room schoolhouse and actually teach some of those classes.  I love watching kids experience history vs. just reading about it and memorizing facts. 

Well what is better than tourism coupled with learning about history.  To me, it creates an amazing experience for any age!  And that is what Susan Meredith from Blackwater Adventures has created in Dorchester County, Maryland.

In 2002, husband and wife team, Jay and Susan Meredith, decided to start Blackwater Paddle and Pedal Adventures. The Hyatt Chesapeake Bay Resort had just been built and Blackwater Refuge was becoming a frequent destination for people searching for a weekend nature fix.

And, as you will learn, the properties that Susan and Jay own, hold some significant history around the Underground Railroad. One of the sites is where abolitionist Harriet Tubman was hit in the head with a counter weight as a young girl which altered the course of her life.

Jay and Susan used entrepreneurial vision and strong work ethic to help develop Blackwater Adventures into a successful tourism enterprise.  And, although they are focused on delivering extraordinary  kayaking, biking, fishing and other outdoor adventures, their adventures are coupled with a passion for teaching the stories about the past…and this certainly differentiates their outdoor adventures, and helps them stand out from the rest.

Enjoy my conversation with adventurer and history story teller Susan Meredith.

Blackwater Adventures
Freedom Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Delmarva
Anna Ella Carroll

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

When I was a kid I did not like history class, or as we called it, social studies.  For me, it felt like the classes were about memorizing textbook material and dates.  I was not lucky enough to have teachers that made it more exciting to learn about history and its importance, relevance, and connection to the now.  However, as an adult, I have a whole new appreciation for history, learning about history and even teaching history.  I am on the Board of my local historical society, have developed classes for our 1850 one room schoolhouse and actually teach some of those classes.  I love watching kids experience history vs. just reading about it and memorizing facts. 

Well what is better than tourism coupled with learning about history.  To me, it creates an amazing experience for any age!  And that is what Susan Meredith from Blackwater Adventures has created in Dorchester County, Maryland.

In 2002, husband and wife team, Jay and Susan Meredith, decided to start Blackwater Paddle and Pedal Adventures. The Hyatt Chesapeake Bay Resort had just been built and Blackwater Refuge was becoming a frequent destination for people searching for a weekend nature fix.

And, as you will learn, the properties that Susan and Jay own, hold some significant history around the Underground Railroad. One of the sites is where abolitionist Harriet Tubman was hit in the head with a counter weight as a young girl which altered the course of her life.

Jay and Susan used entrepreneurial vision and strong work ethic to help develop Blackwater Adventures into a successful tourism enterprise.  And, although they are focused on delivering extraordinary  kayaking, biking, fishing and other outdoor adventures, their adventures are coupled with a passion for teaching the stories about the past…and this certainly differentiates their outdoor adventures, and helps them stand out from the rest.

Enjoy my conversation with adventurer and history story teller Susan Meredith.

Blackwater Adventures
Freedom Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
Delmarva
Anna Ella Carroll

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Susan Meredith Buzzsprout-16462042 Mon, 20 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3303 history, historical, agritourism, agritourist, agriculture, tourism, adventure, travel, kayak, bike, civil war history, adventures, ecotourism 1 39 full false Savor the Dancing Greens with Farmer Jamie and Chef Madison Savor the Dancing Greens with Farmer Jamie and Chef Madison Send a text

The farmer - Jamie.  And the chef- Madison.  A few years ago, they were both in Rome, Italy, independently pursuing a Masters of Arts in Food Studies and Policies for Sustainable Production and Consumption. During their time in Italy and while hiking through olive trees in Tuscany, they became friends and contrived this farm plan that involved creating a space to grow food, partnering with those they admired, and sharing good vibes and education. A few years later, actually sooner than they had originally planned for, Jamie was given an opportunity to farm some family land in MA.  And their concept was suddenly manifesting…Dancing Greens Farm was born. 

You are going to love Jamie and Madison and their serendipitous stories.  Even the business name Dancing Greens has a fun story. I absolutely love what they are creating in the Berkshires….a true sustainable, no till, women-owned farm that grows veggies, herbs and flowers.  AND also hosts authentic farm to table dinners and immersive educational experiences.  And what’s so great is that Jamie and Madison have just begun their journey and I am really excited to see how their journey unfolds this coming year and beyond.

Enjoy my exciting conversation with Jamie and Madison. By the end you just might want to get your hands in the soil and you will definitely be savoring some of Madison’s farm to table creations. 

Dancing Greens Farm
M.A. Food Studies: Policies for sustainable production and consumption
Berkshire Grown
Berkshire Grown Podcast Interview

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

The farmer - Jamie.  And the chef- Madison.  A few years ago, they were both in Rome, Italy, independently pursuing a Masters of Arts in Food Studies and Policies for Sustainable Production and Consumption. During their time in Italy and while hiking through olive trees in Tuscany, they became friends and contrived this farm plan that involved creating a space to grow food, partnering with those they admired, and sharing good vibes and education. A few years later, actually sooner than they had originally planned for, Jamie was given an opportunity to farm some family land in MA.  And their concept was suddenly manifesting…Dancing Greens Farm was born. 

You are going to love Jamie and Madison and their serendipitous stories.  Even the business name Dancing Greens has a fun story. I absolutely love what they are creating in the Berkshires….a true sustainable, no till, women-owned farm that grows veggies, herbs and flowers.  AND also hosts authentic farm to table dinners and immersive educational experiences.  And what’s so great is that Jamie and Madison have just begun their journey and I am really excited to see how their journey unfolds this coming year and beyond.

Enjoy my exciting conversation with Jamie and Madison. By the end you just might want to get your hands in the soil and you will definitely be savoring some of Madison’s farm to table creations. 

Dancing Greens Farm
M.A. Food Studies: Policies for sustainable production and consumption
Berkshire Grown
Berkshire Grown Podcast Interview

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Farmer Jamie/Chef Madison Buzzsprout-16419030 Mon, 13 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3424 agritourism, farm to table, farm, farming, agriculture, no till, dining on the farm, farm meals, vegetables, growing, veggies, farm cooking, agritour, farm tour, berkshires, great barrington, massachusetts 1 38 full false Broken Spoke's Maggie & Thea 'Chit Chat' About Their Boutique Winery Broken Spoke's Maggie & Thea 'Chit Chat' About Their Boutique Winery Send a text

I had the pleasure of speaking with a mother daughter team…well actually, in real life,  they are a mother daughter father team, but dad likes to stay behind the scenes.  Thea Hall is the Owner, Vintner, and Farm Caretaker of Broken Spoke, a boutique winery and vineyard on Maryland’s Eastern Shore with a unique focus on animals and communication or conversation styles- you will understand more about what that means when you listen to the podcast!  Maggie Hall, Thea’s daughter, is the social media, events, and wine club management guru for Broken Spoke. 

Thea describes Broken Spoke as three separate businesses - the first business is growing the wine, the second is making the wine and the third is marketing the wine.  And she is very right about these three being very distinct businesses that require very different skill sets, experience, and know how.

When I asked about the relationships with a mother, daughter…and father team running a business…I loved how Thea and Maggie responded.  Thea describes her husband as the doer who gets the cart rolling and Maggie describes her mom as the person who steers and puts all the road signs up to tell her father where to go. And Maggie - well she  fixes all the flats!!!  I think that is a pretty impressive and collaborative team who have each found their strengths and figured out how to most effectively manage all three businesses that make up Broken Spoke Vineyard and Winery.

Enjoy my conversation with Thea and Maggie Hall.

Broken Spoke Winery
Current Wine Selections - Check out the Labels 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I had the pleasure of speaking with a mother daughter team…well actually, in real life,  they are a mother daughter father team, but dad likes to stay behind the scenes.  Thea Hall is the Owner, Vintner, and Farm Caretaker of Broken Spoke, a boutique winery and vineyard on Maryland’s Eastern Shore with a unique focus on animals and communication or conversation styles- you will understand more about what that means when you listen to the podcast!  Maggie Hall, Thea’s daughter, is the social media, events, and wine club management guru for Broken Spoke. 

Thea describes Broken Spoke as three separate businesses - the first business is growing the wine, the second is making the wine and the third is marketing the wine.  And she is very right about these three being very distinct businesses that require very different skill sets, experience, and know how.

When I asked about the relationships with a mother, daughter…and father team running a business…I loved how Thea and Maggie responded.  Thea describes her husband as the doer who gets the cart rolling and Maggie describes her mom as the person who steers and puts all the road signs up to tell her father where to go. And Maggie - well she  fixes all the flats!!!  I think that is a pretty impressive and collaborative team who have each found their strengths and figured out how to most effectively manage all three businesses that make up Broken Spoke Vineyard and Winery.

Enjoy my conversation with Thea and Maggie Hall.

Broken Spoke Winery
Current Wine Selections - Check out the Labels 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Thea & Maggie Hall Buzzsprout-16383828 Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 2860 vineyard, vines, grapes, maryland, farm, farming, horses, wine, winemaking, winemaker, wine events, wine tastings, agritourism, agritourist, maryland farm, maryland vineyard, broken spoke, boutique winery 1 37 full false Berkshire Grown's Margaret Moulton Raises the Profile on Local Food & Farms Berkshire Grown's Margaret Moulton Raises the Profile on Local Food & Farms Send a text

Today we are speaking with Margaret Moulton, Executive Director at Berkshire Grown.  Berkshire Grown, based in Great Barrington, MA,  works toward an equitable and resilient local food system by supporting and promoting farmers, connecting people to local food, and building community partnerships around local food security.  

Margaret and I explore the impact of Berkshire Grown on the community and how the organization, its members, and its partners demonstrated, especially during COVID, the need of relying on regional food sources and that you actually can rely on those regional food sources.  Many foods can be sourced locally and being conscious of what is growing during the current season is very important in order to support local farmers and the local economy.

Margaret’s grant writing background has significantly contributed to her success in her Executive Director role at Berkshire Grown. She mines for Federal, state, regional, and local grant opportunities in order for Berkshire Grown to properly and effectively serve the needs of the local community.  Projects like their mobile farmers markets which reach into underserved communities, is a growing model of how Berkshire Grown is meeting the needs of its farmers and the community surrounding these farmers. 

Enjoy my conversation with Margaret Moulton and we hope you get inspired to shop your local farmers market or farmstand on a weekly basis.

Berkshire Grown
USDA Grants & Loans
Winter Farmers Markets
Local Food Access
Food & Farm Map

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Today we are speaking with Margaret Moulton, Executive Director at Berkshire Grown.  Berkshire Grown, based in Great Barrington, MA,  works toward an equitable and resilient local food system by supporting and promoting farmers, connecting people to local food, and building community partnerships around local food security.  

Margaret and I explore the impact of Berkshire Grown on the community and how the organization, its members, and its partners demonstrated, especially during COVID, the need of relying on regional food sources and that you actually can rely on those regional food sources.  Many foods can be sourced locally and being conscious of what is growing during the current season is very important in order to support local farmers and the local economy.

Margaret’s grant writing background has significantly contributed to her success in her Executive Director role at Berkshire Grown. She mines for Federal, state, regional, and local grant opportunities in order for Berkshire Grown to properly and effectively serve the needs of the local community.  Projects like their mobile farmers markets which reach into underserved communities, is a growing model of how Berkshire Grown is meeting the needs of its farmers and the community surrounding these farmers. 

Enjoy my conversation with Margaret Moulton and we hope you get inspired to shop your local farmers market or farmstand on a weekly basis.

Berkshire Grown
USDA Grants & Loans
Winter Farmers Markets
Local Food Access
Food & Farm Map

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Margaret Moulton Buzzsprout-16349238 Mon, 30 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 4202 farming, farm, agritourism, Berkshires, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, farmer, growing, grown, farmers market, farmstand, winter market, mobile market, mobile farmers market, local food, farming skills 1 36 full false A Farmer's Philosophy with Richard Andres from Tantré Farm A Farmer's Philosophy with Richard Andres from Tantré Farm Send a text

I had a very inspiring and deeply insightful conversation with Richard Andres, owner of Tantre Farm in Michigan.  Richard is a farmer, a philosopher, and former carpenter.  Well I say former carpenter but I am sure his carpentry skills come in super handy on the farm. Those are one set of skills I wish I had more of. 

So when I say my conversation was deeply insightful that is probably an understatement.  When I noticed in Richard’s bio that he worked with the Ann Arbor and Toronto Zen Buddhist temples, I figured that our conversation may go well beyond the economics of farming.  And it certainly did.  When I left the conversation with Richard, I felt a deep understanding about WHY he does what he does and why feeding people and connecting with people through food is at the foundation of everything he does…from a very successful CSA, upick, and meal program to the farm education…he serves his community through food. With his wife Deb by his side, they are such an positive force in their community and with everyone they touch.  

I left my conversation with Richard conveying to him that he needs to write a book…the world needs to hear his unique wisdom and philosophies about food and farming.  I encourage you to mindfully listen to this episode with an open heart.  It will help to fill you! 

Tantre Farm 
Thích Nhất Hạnh - Mindfulness
Eliot Coleman
Nourishing Traditions, Sally Fallon
The Aldo Leopold Foundation - Where Ethics Meet Earth
A Sand County Almanac
Wendell Berry - The Berry Center

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I had a very inspiring and deeply insightful conversation with Richard Andres, owner of Tantre Farm in Michigan.  Richard is a farmer, a philosopher, and former carpenter.  Well I say former carpenter but I am sure his carpentry skills come in super handy on the farm. Those are one set of skills I wish I had more of. 

So when I say my conversation was deeply insightful that is probably an understatement.  When I noticed in Richard’s bio that he worked with the Ann Arbor and Toronto Zen Buddhist temples, I figured that our conversation may go well beyond the economics of farming.  And it certainly did.  When I left the conversation with Richard, I felt a deep understanding about WHY he does what he does and why feeding people and connecting with people through food is at the foundation of everything he does…from a very successful CSA, upick, and meal program to the farm education…he serves his community through food. With his wife Deb by his side, they are such an positive force in their community and with everyone they touch.  

I left my conversation with Richard conveying to him that he needs to write a book…the world needs to hear his unique wisdom and philosophies about food and farming.  I encourage you to mindfully listen to this episode with an open heart.  It will help to fill you! 

Tantre Farm 
Thích Nhất Hạnh - Mindfulness
Eliot Coleman
Nourishing Traditions, Sally Fallon
The Aldo Leopold Foundation - Where Ethics Meet Earth
A Sand County Almanac
Wendell Berry - The Berry Center

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Richard Andres Buzzsprout-16325480 Mon, 23 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 4126 Tantre Farm, farm, farming, agriculture, CSA, upick, philospher, michigan, agritourism, farm to table, farm dinners 1 35 full false A Mid Atlantic Agritourism Founder & CEO Connects People to Farms & Art A Mid Atlantic Agritourism Founder & CEO Connects People to Farms & Art Send a text

Today I am chatting with Tracy Mitchell Griggs from AgVenturesUS.  Tracy is the ultimate connector when it comes to everything agritourism.  Growing up in south Jersey, Tracy developed a love of farmers veggies from local farmers markets. She also spent a lot of time on the eastern shore of Maryland where she enjoyed Chesapeake Bay Sailing adventures with her family.  Tracy spent time in California exploring and expanding her culinary skills and later returned to the Mid Atlantic where she studied the global aquaculture industry. 

Throughout her career, agritourism has become a significant theme, and Tracy is applying that knowledge, experience and her many agritourism contacts to build out some business concepts surrounding the arts and agriculture and a Mid Atlantic Agritourism Alliance. Learn about how Tracy’s diverse career, experiences and her knack for connecting people have come together to form these new and exciting ventures.

AgVenturesUS
Mid Atlantic Agritourism Alliance
Farm & Art Tour
South Carolina's Ag & Art Tour Embodies What AgriTourism Is All About
Fractured Atlas
Dig In Vermont

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Today I am chatting with Tracy Mitchell Griggs from AgVenturesUS.  Tracy is the ultimate connector when it comes to everything agritourism.  Growing up in south Jersey, Tracy developed a love of farmers veggies from local farmers markets. She also spent a lot of time on the eastern shore of Maryland where she enjoyed Chesapeake Bay Sailing adventures with her family.  Tracy spent time in California exploring and expanding her culinary skills and later returned to the Mid Atlantic where she studied the global aquaculture industry. 

Throughout her career, agritourism has become a significant theme, and Tracy is applying that knowledge, experience and her many agritourism contacts to build out some business concepts surrounding the arts and agriculture and a Mid Atlantic Agritourism Alliance. Learn about how Tracy’s diverse career, experiences and her knack for connecting people have come together to form these new and exciting ventures.

AgVenturesUS
Mid Atlantic Agritourism Alliance
Farm & Art Tour
South Carolina's Ag & Art Tour Embodies What AgriTourism Is All About
Fractured Atlas
Dig In Vermont

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Tracy Mitchell Griggs Buzzsprout-16283842 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 4037 agritourism, agritourist, farming, farmer, agritour, tourism, agritravel, agritraveler, vineyard, maryland, mid atlantic, alliance, farm and art, farm and art tour, tour 1 34 full false We Found Waldo...at the Cacao Farm in DR We Found Waldo...at the Cacao Farm in DR Send a text

I am so excited for you to hear from my very dear friend and fellow entrepreneur, Waldo Cabrera.  Waldo is an Emmy-Winning, Emmy-Nominated, and extremely talented video producer.  I have known Waldo for many years. We have collaborated on many work projects, I have conducted many interviews for a TV show he produced, and we have had many thrilling times like riding the Cyclone in Coney Island after a video shoot at the opening of a local community center.   

Waldo knew I have a passion for all things agriculture as he covered many of our farm events and innovations on his TV episodes.  And he also knew that I happened to love chocolate and traveled to Central America a few times to learn about the agriculture behind chocolate.  Well one day, to my surprise, Waldo just happened to mention that his family owns a 100 year old organic cacao farm in the Dominican Republic!!!  Why he withheld that fact from me, I will never know…and we joke about it to this day! But once I found out and we chatted about it, we turned it into a family media adventure to the Dominic Republic.  And what an amazing adventure it was…to immerse in the culture of the Dominican Republic and be part of a working organic cacao farm...and to be able to experience this with close friends and family….

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Waldo Cabrera. 

MyLITV
Holocaust Survivor Ruth Kohn: From Living in Hell To Living in Paradise in Sosua, D.R.
Broadway on Main
EMMY WINNER:  Laylas Dance & Drum's Black History Month with the Harlem Globetrotters
EMMY WINNER: Conversation with Director Barry Sonnenfeld at the Cinema Arts Centre
EMMY NOMINATION: Legendary TV Producer Norman Lear at the Cinema Arts Centre
Puerto Rico's 2020 EARTHQUAKES SITUATION ON THE GROUND AND APPEAL
No Dream is Too High: One on One with Buzz Aldrin at the Book Revue
Women Chocolate Makers Breaking Boundaries in Dominican Republic
Riding the Donkey to the Organic Cacao Farm
Dominican Dream

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I am so excited for you to hear from my very dear friend and fellow entrepreneur, Waldo Cabrera.  Waldo is an Emmy-Winning, Emmy-Nominated, and extremely talented video producer.  I have known Waldo for many years. We have collaborated on many work projects, I have conducted many interviews for a TV show he produced, and we have had many thrilling times like riding the Cyclone in Coney Island after a video shoot at the opening of a local community center.   

Waldo knew I have a passion for all things agriculture as he covered many of our farm events and innovations on his TV episodes.  And he also knew that I happened to love chocolate and traveled to Central America a few times to learn about the agriculture behind chocolate.  Well one day, to my surprise, Waldo just happened to mention that his family owns a 100 year old organic cacao farm in the Dominican Republic!!!  Why he withheld that fact from me, I will never know…and we joke about it to this day! But once I found out and we chatted about it, we turned it into a family media adventure to the Dominic Republic.  And what an amazing adventure it was…to immerse in the culture of the Dominican Republic and be part of a working organic cacao farm...and to be able to experience this with close friends and family….

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Waldo Cabrera. 

MyLITV
Holocaust Survivor Ruth Kohn: From Living in Hell To Living in Paradise in Sosua, D.R.
Broadway on Main
EMMY WINNER:  Laylas Dance & Drum's Black History Month with the Harlem Globetrotters
EMMY WINNER: Conversation with Director Barry Sonnenfeld at the Cinema Arts Centre
EMMY NOMINATION: Legendary TV Producer Norman Lear at the Cinema Arts Centre
Puerto Rico's 2020 EARTHQUAKES SITUATION ON THE GROUND AND APPEAL
No Dream is Too High: One on One with Buzz Aldrin at the Book Revue
Women Chocolate Makers Breaking Boundaries in Dominican Republic
Riding the Donkey to the Organic Cacao Farm
Dominican Dream

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Waldo Cabrera Buzzsprout-16228942 Mon, 09 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 4161 dominican republic, cacao, farm, farming, agriculture, agritourism, ecotourism, chocolate, cacao farms, 1 33 full false Invest Your Money in Farms & Food with Ag Professional Turned Bank CEO, Charley Cummings Invest Your Money in Farms & Food with Ag Professional Turned Bank CEO, Charley Cummings Send a text

It’s not every day we see an agriculture professional turned banker! Today we will meet one! 

Many of us bank at some of the large banking institutions with branding we are very familiar with. If not one of the large banks, some bank with credit unions or invest in local and regional banking institutions. But do you think about how your money is used and invested after it is deposited into your current bank?  In all honesty, I didn’t…until I  learned about Walden Mutual Bank and had a conversation with CEO, Charley Cummings, agriculture business owner turned banking professional.  If you care about agriculture, farming, healthy food, sustainability, and our Earth, then why wouldn’t you consider investing your money in a banking institution that cares about the same things…where your deposits are invested back into agriculture, farming, food, sustainability and our Earth?  And if you are a growing company in any of these industries and are located in New England and NY,  Walden Mutual has financial options for you to consider.  

Enjoy my conversation with Charley Cummings from Walden Mutual Bank.  And even if you don’t move your money right away, research how your bank is investing its funds and whether it is in alignment with how you would want your money to be invested. 

Walden Mutual Bank
The Dirty Life: A Memoir of Farming, Food, and Love
Walden Local

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

It’s not every day we see an agriculture professional turned banker! Today we will meet one! 

Many of us bank at some of the large banking institutions with branding we are very familiar with. If not one of the large banks, some bank with credit unions or invest in local and regional banking institutions. But do you think about how your money is used and invested after it is deposited into your current bank?  In all honesty, I didn’t…until I  learned about Walden Mutual Bank and had a conversation with CEO, Charley Cummings, agriculture business owner turned banking professional.  If you care about agriculture, farming, healthy food, sustainability, and our Earth, then why wouldn’t you consider investing your money in a banking institution that cares about the same things…where your deposits are invested back into agriculture, farming, food, sustainability and our Earth?  And if you are a growing company in any of these industries and are located in New England and NY,  Walden Mutual has financial options for you to consider.  

Enjoy my conversation with Charley Cummings from Walden Mutual Bank.  And even if you don’t move your money right away, research how your bank is investing its funds and whether it is in alignment with how you would want your money to be invested. 

Walden Mutual Bank
The Dirty Life: A Memoir of Farming, Food, and Love
Walden Local

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Charley Cummings Buzzsprout-16195931 Mon, 02 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 2933 farming, agriculture, farm, investments, farm investments, food investments, agriculture investments, banking, mutual bank, local bank, new england, agritourism 1 32 full false Looking into the Eyes of an Alpaca with Jane Lee Rankin Looking into the Eyes of an Alpaca with Jane Lee Rankin Send a text

“It is never too late to take the first step toward our dreams, no matter how big or impractical - or seemingly outrageous.”  This is a quote from Jane Lee Rankin from her compelling memoir called Farm Family. This is a book about the adventure that created Apple Hill Farm in North Carolina. It’s all about how a solo mom with a broken heart and no farming or livestock experience created a renowned agritourism destination and thriving mountaintop farm. 

A chance encounter with an alpaca in the year 2000 at the Kentucky State Fair planted a seed for Jane (aka Lee) that grew into a big and life defining dream of wanting to raise alpacas. I have to admit that I know very little about alpacas but after reading Farm Family and interviewing Jane,  I want to drive down to her farm and meet these animals that Jane describes as having a deep “spiritual knowing.” 

To quote Jane - “A farm was the perfect environment to raise a young son. Through the challenges that arose on the journey it was Will and my faith that provided the strength to get up and keep moving forward. Somewhere along the way, I became a farmer, a lover of land, animals and plants, and a memoir writer….”

Jane recognized the importance of being in the moments with her son Will and, throughout the memoir, we had the opportunity to experience those important, memorable moments of love and learning. Jane’s connection to her son Will, the land, the animals, and the people she attracted to share in her journey, are truly compelling. 

Apple Hill Farm is open year round for guided walking tours to meet and learn about the animals. In summer they offer experiences such as:

  • Barn quilt painting
  • Goat yoga
  • Knitting with the alpacas
  • And more

They also have an Apple Hill Farm Store that sells all sorts of amazing items such as  yarn, alpaca socks, gloves, apparel, and honey.

And, in addition, Jane helps other farmers and entrepreneurs by offering classes on agritourism and educates people about farming, animals and where food comes from. Enjoy my conversation with Jane Lee Rankin from Apple Hill Farm.
Apple Hill Farm
Farm Family Book
Cook Book - Cookin up a Storm
Apple Hill Farm Store
Alpaca Dryer Balls
Agritourism Consulting

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

“It is never too late to take the first step toward our dreams, no matter how big or impractical - or seemingly outrageous.”  This is a quote from Jane Lee Rankin from her compelling memoir called Farm Family. This is a book about the adventure that created Apple Hill Farm in North Carolina. It’s all about how a solo mom with a broken heart and no farming or livestock experience created a renowned agritourism destination and thriving mountaintop farm. 

A chance encounter with an alpaca in the year 2000 at the Kentucky State Fair planted a seed for Jane (aka Lee) that grew into a big and life defining dream of wanting to raise alpacas. I have to admit that I know very little about alpacas but after reading Farm Family and interviewing Jane,  I want to drive down to her farm and meet these animals that Jane describes as having a deep “spiritual knowing.” 

To quote Jane - “A farm was the perfect environment to raise a young son. Through the challenges that arose on the journey it was Will and my faith that provided the strength to get up and keep moving forward. Somewhere along the way, I became a farmer, a lover of land, animals and plants, and a memoir writer….”

Jane recognized the importance of being in the moments with her son Will and, throughout the memoir, we had the opportunity to experience those important, memorable moments of love and learning. Jane’s connection to her son Will, the land, the animals, and the people she attracted to share in her journey, are truly compelling. 

Apple Hill Farm is open year round for guided walking tours to meet and learn about the animals. In summer they offer experiences such as:

  • Barn quilt painting
  • Goat yoga
  • Knitting with the alpacas
  • And more

They also have an Apple Hill Farm Store that sells all sorts of amazing items such as  yarn, alpaca socks, gloves, apparel, and honey.

And, in addition, Jane helps other farmers and entrepreneurs by offering classes on agritourism and educates people about farming, animals and where food comes from. Enjoy my conversation with Jane Lee Rankin from Apple Hill Farm.
Apple Hill Farm
Farm Family Book
Cook Book - Cookin up a Storm
Apple Hill Farm Store
Alpaca Dryer Balls
Agritourism Consulting

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Jane Lee Rankin Buzzsprout-16162204 Mon, 25 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 3775 alpaca, farm, farming, agriculture, alpaca farm, animal farm, north carolina, agritourism, agritourist, tourism, farm life 1 31 full true Three inspiring women and just a mere maple tree farm Three inspiring women and just a mere maple tree farm Send a text

There is nothing like the taste of a real, authentic New England maple syrup. This one is not located in Vermont - it’s located right in the Berkshires!  And I even had the chance to spend a few hours touring and tasting my way through this amazing farm.

Justamere Tree Farm is located in the town of Worthington MA.  The land was purchased in 1982 and owned by JP and Marian. They fell in love with a 26-acre wooded lot with a brook and hunting cabin and farmed the land for 38 years.  The woods became their livelihood, the earth their roots, and the trees their grounding.  

The farm is newly owned by three inspirational women - Kelly, Kim and Deb. It is now an all women-owned maple business that runs on clean, renewable energy. And it is situated on 60 acres of rolling hills filled with maples and birch.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Deb who spent most of her career as a biologist for the US Fish and Wildlife Service and lived in many places including Connecticut, Maine, and Alaska. She believes that private landowners and sustainable agriculture play an integral role in conservation. That is why she fell in love with Justamere Tree Farm and the ethic behind the business.

Her business partner Kelly grew up outdoors as a competitive ski and mountain bike racer who is passionate about a life focused on nature and the environment. After spending time in her childhood on a farm in Ohio, Kelly has now returned to her roots.

And Kim grew up riding horses through the fields and forests of rural Alabama. She lived in Alaska for over 20 years where, among other things, she did backcountry search and rescue with her dog. Her lifelong passion for the outdoors, and the beauty of New England drew her to this new adventure. 

Join me in learning about this special maple forest in the heart of the Berkshires and learn all about Justamere’s authentic and unique maple products, some favorites being the maple seasoning, maple hot cocoa, cinnamon maple sugar, and so much more.  

Enjoy my conversation with Deb, of the owners of Just- A- Mere Tree Farm. 

Justamere Tree Farm
Berkshire Grown
Berkshares
Great Barrington Farmers Market
Harold Grinspoon Foundation

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

There is nothing like the taste of a real, authentic New England maple syrup. This one is not located in Vermont - it’s located right in the Berkshires!  And I even had the chance to spend a few hours touring and tasting my way through this amazing farm.

Justamere Tree Farm is located in the town of Worthington MA.  The land was purchased in 1982 and owned by JP and Marian. They fell in love with a 26-acre wooded lot with a brook and hunting cabin and farmed the land for 38 years.  The woods became their livelihood, the earth their roots, and the trees their grounding.  

The farm is newly owned by three inspirational women - Kelly, Kim and Deb. It is now an all women-owned maple business that runs on clean, renewable energy. And it is situated on 60 acres of rolling hills filled with maples and birch.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Deb who spent most of her career as a biologist for the US Fish and Wildlife Service and lived in many places including Connecticut, Maine, and Alaska. She believes that private landowners and sustainable agriculture play an integral role in conservation. That is why she fell in love with Justamere Tree Farm and the ethic behind the business.

Her business partner Kelly grew up outdoors as a competitive ski and mountain bike racer who is passionate about a life focused on nature and the environment. After spending time in her childhood on a farm in Ohio, Kelly has now returned to her roots.

And Kim grew up riding horses through the fields and forests of rural Alabama. She lived in Alaska for over 20 years where, among other things, she did backcountry search and rescue with her dog. Her lifelong passion for the outdoors, and the beauty of New England drew her to this new adventure. 

Join me in learning about this special maple forest in the heart of the Berkshires and learn all about Justamere’s authentic and unique maple products, some favorites being the maple seasoning, maple hot cocoa, cinnamon maple sugar, and so much more.  

Enjoy my conversation with Deb, of the owners of Just- A- Mere Tree Farm. 

Justamere Tree Farm
Berkshire Grown
Berkshares
Great Barrington Farmers Market
Harold Grinspoon Foundation

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Deb Rocque Buzzsprout-16122984 Mon, 18 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 2517 maple syrup, maple trees, maple farm, berkshires, maple tree farm, tree farm, agritourism, farm tours, maple products, new england, farm, farming, agriculture 1 30 full false Savor the Cuisine & Landscape of Sonoma County with Relish Culinary Adventures Savor the Cuisine & Landscape of Sonoma County with Relish Culinary Adventures Send a text

Today we are chatting with Donna Del Rey, owner of Relish Culinary Adventures.

Relish Culinary Adventures (love the name!) is a culinary program that brings together talented chefs and fabulous cuisine at a variety of captivating rural locations including farms and orchards, to create one-of-a-kind authentic cooking classes, culinary tours and excursions, and catering services.

Based in Healdsburg, California, in the heart of the Sonoma County wine country, Relish offers culinary events on a wide range of topics from wine country cuisine to ethnic specialties, cheese making to wild mushroom foraging - the mushroom foraging is one of my favorites! . In addition, Relish hosts activities that bring people together in the kitchen, such as private cooking parties and corporate team-building events.

Donna has such an authentic and transparent nature. Owning your own business is hard and requires a lot of resiliency, risk, leaps of faith, and strategic thinking and planning. But it sometimes requires you to react and do things that are not aligned with the initial vision and plan. And when you need to do this, you sometimes feel a sense of desperation, that you are doing everything to make your business survive, even if it doesn’t completely align with the vision.  However, I believe that pivoting and diversifying is sometimes necessary in order to survive and eventually thrive.  And that is what happened to Donna.  She pivoted, she diversified her income streams…she survived…and now she is thriving once again.  That is the real journey of an entrepreneur.  

And, although Relish Culinary and its mission to connect people to where their food comes from is at the forefront of our discussion, I think Donna’s openness about her business challenges and ability to be flexible, are truly at the heart of our discussion and is such an important story to be told.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Donna! 

Relish Culinary Adventures
Relish Culinary Calendar of Events
Culinary Tours
Relish Culinary Instagram
Relish Culinary Facebook
Dry Creek Peach

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Today we are chatting with Donna Del Rey, owner of Relish Culinary Adventures.

Relish Culinary Adventures (love the name!) is a culinary program that brings together talented chefs and fabulous cuisine at a variety of captivating rural locations including farms and orchards, to create one-of-a-kind authentic cooking classes, culinary tours and excursions, and catering services.

Based in Healdsburg, California, in the heart of the Sonoma County wine country, Relish offers culinary events on a wide range of topics from wine country cuisine to ethnic specialties, cheese making to wild mushroom foraging - the mushroom foraging is one of my favorites! . In addition, Relish hosts activities that bring people together in the kitchen, such as private cooking parties and corporate team-building events.

Donna has such an authentic and transparent nature. Owning your own business is hard and requires a lot of resiliency, risk, leaps of faith, and strategic thinking and planning. But it sometimes requires you to react and do things that are not aligned with the initial vision and plan. And when you need to do this, you sometimes feel a sense of desperation, that you are doing everything to make your business survive, even if it doesn’t completely align with the vision.  However, I believe that pivoting and diversifying is sometimes necessary in order to survive and eventually thrive.  And that is what happened to Donna.  She pivoted, she diversified her income streams…she survived…and now she is thriving once again.  That is the real journey of an entrepreneur.  

And, although Relish Culinary and its mission to connect people to where their food comes from is at the forefront of our discussion, I think Donna’s openness about her business challenges and ability to be flexible, are truly at the heart of our discussion and is such an important story to be told.

I hope you enjoy my conversation with Donna! 

Relish Culinary Adventures
Relish Culinary Calendar of Events
Culinary Tours
Relish Culinary Instagram
Relish Culinary Facebook
Dry Creek Peach

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Donna Del Rey Buzzsprout-16069303 Mon, 11 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 4434 culinary, adventures, agritourism, farm dinners, culinary events, farm events, sonoma county, culinary experiences, mushroom foraging, wine country, cooking, cuisine 1 29 full false Berkshares: Boosting the local economy with a local currency Berkshares: Boosting the local economy with a local currency Send a text

I have been doing a lot of local traveling, really digging into the northeast US where my agriculture focus seems to be currently taking me.  I visited a bean festival at a farm in Sheffield, Massachusetts (MA), located in the southern part of the Berkshires. The Berkshires or Berkshire County is located in Western Massachusetts, with New York State very close to the west, Connecticut to the south, and Vermont to the north. 

Before going to the festival I met a friend for lunch at the Berkshire Food Coop and explored the downtown area of Great Barrington, MA.  Kind of fell in love with the vibe of the whole area - the energy, the outdoor air, the agriculture focus….everything about it.   Of course I grabbed a few brochures related to farming and local businesses and came across something called Berkshares…a local Currency Program. BerkShares is the best-known contemporary example of a place-based currency. They have over 300 participating locally-owned and community-minded businesses that support Berkshares to keep money circulating in the region, thereby contributing to a greater local multiplier effect. My marketing and business development mind immediately recognized what a brilliant marketing and loyalty program that this currency program really is. 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Jared Spears, the Marketing Director of Berkshares.  Berkshares is a program that came out of the Schumacher Center for a New Economics. They work to envision the elements of a just and regenerative global economy, undertake to apply these elements in the Berkshires; and develop the educational programs to share the results more broadly, thus encouraging replication.  

Stay tuned for an interesting history on how the Berkshares local currency initiative got started and transformed out of some previous programs including Deli Dollars and Berkshire Farm Preserve Notes. Jared provided me with a good understanding of the local economics that contributed to the launch of this local currency.  Enjoy my conversation with Jared Spears.

Berkshares
Berkshire Community Land Trust
Farmstead for Farmers Initiative
Schumacher Center for new economics 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I have been doing a lot of local traveling, really digging into the northeast US where my agriculture focus seems to be currently taking me.  I visited a bean festival at a farm in Sheffield, Massachusetts (MA), located in the southern part of the Berkshires. The Berkshires or Berkshire County is located in Western Massachusetts, with New York State very close to the west, Connecticut to the south, and Vermont to the north. 

Before going to the festival I met a friend for lunch at the Berkshire Food Coop and explored the downtown area of Great Barrington, MA.  Kind of fell in love with the vibe of the whole area - the energy, the outdoor air, the agriculture focus….everything about it.   Of course I grabbed a few brochures related to farming and local businesses and came across something called Berkshares…a local Currency Program. BerkShares is the best-known contemporary example of a place-based currency. They have over 300 participating locally-owned and community-minded businesses that support Berkshares to keep money circulating in the region, thereby contributing to a greater local multiplier effect. My marketing and business development mind immediately recognized what a brilliant marketing and loyalty program that this currency program really is. 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Jared Spears, the Marketing Director of Berkshares.  Berkshares is a program that came out of the Schumacher Center for a New Economics. They work to envision the elements of a just and regenerative global economy, undertake to apply these elements in the Berkshires; and develop the educational programs to share the results more broadly, thus encouraging replication.  

Stay tuned for an interesting history on how the Berkshares local currency initiative got started and transformed out of some previous programs including Deli Dollars and Berkshire Farm Preserve Notes. Jared provided me with a good understanding of the local economics that contributed to the launch of this local currency.  Enjoy my conversation with Jared Spears.

Berkshares
Berkshire Community Land Trust
Farmstead for Farmers Initiative
Schumacher Center for new economics 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Jared Spears Buzzsprout-15980186 Mon, 04 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 3143 berkshires, berkshire county, agriculture, farming, farms, local currency, berkshares, massachusetts, agritourism, farmers, local, loyalty, shop local 1 28 full false From Tree to Bar at Crayfish Bay Organic Cacao Farm in Grenada From Tree to Bar at Crayfish Bay Organic Cacao Farm in Grenada Send a text

We left New York and it was 27 degrees Fahrenheit and mild.  We arrived in Grenada a little over four hours later and it was 78 degrees, partly sunny and fairly humid.  Earl, our driver, was awaiting our arrival.  He drove us in his car to the ‘countryside’ on the north west side of Grenada.  The roads were thin and very windy with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.  Houses were located on both sides of the road – some on stilts overlooking the water and others embedded in the mountainside of green vegetation. This was the beginning of our agriculture adventure in Grenada…

An hour later, we arrived at Crayfish Bay Organics, a 200-year old, 15-acre cacao farm. We met Kim and Lylette Russell – owners of the estate and Crayfish Bay Chocolate. Kim, a very entertaining, determined, and hard working man of English descent, lived most of his life on the water in the Caribbean and most recently settled down in Grenada. Lylette was originally from Guyana, South America and lived a good part of her life in St. Lucia. Kim and Lylette connected online and live and work their estate at Crayfish Bay.

Their land produces cacao, bananas, plantains, oranges, nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, guava, mango, passion fruit, grapefruit, avocado, star fruit, and so much more. 

This trip to Grenada was truly an agricultural immersion and adventure…which included cacao growing, chocolate making, tree and farm to table food, spice tours, hiking, tons of exploring….and, most importantly, connecting with such dedicated people.  These are the things that keep people coming back and visiting Crayfish Bay year after year. 

Enjoy my conversation with Lylette Russell  from Crayfish Bay Organics. 

Crayfish Bay Organics
The Little House, Crayfish Bay Airbnb
The Tree House, Crayfish Bay Airbnb

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

We left New York and it was 27 degrees Fahrenheit and mild.  We arrived in Grenada a little over four hours later and it was 78 degrees, partly sunny and fairly humid.  Earl, our driver, was awaiting our arrival.  He drove us in his car to the ‘countryside’ on the north west side of Grenada.  The roads were thin and very windy with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.  Houses were located on both sides of the road – some on stilts overlooking the water and others embedded in the mountainside of green vegetation. This was the beginning of our agriculture adventure in Grenada…

An hour later, we arrived at Crayfish Bay Organics, a 200-year old, 15-acre cacao farm. We met Kim and Lylette Russell – owners of the estate and Crayfish Bay Chocolate. Kim, a very entertaining, determined, and hard working man of English descent, lived most of his life on the water in the Caribbean and most recently settled down in Grenada. Lylette was originally from Guyana, South America and lived a good part of her life in St. Lucia. Kim and Lylette connected online and live and work their estate at Crayfish Bay.

Their land produces cacao, bananas, plantains, oranges, nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, guava, mango, passion fruit, grapefruit, avocado, star fruit, and so much more. 

This trip to Grenada was truly an agricultural immersion and adventure…which included cacao growing, chocolate making, tree and farm to table food, spice tours, hiking, tons of exploring….and, most importantly, connecting with such dedicated people.  These are the things that keep people coming back and visiting Crayfish Bay year after year. 

Enjoy my conversation with Lylette Russell  from Crayfish Bay Organics. 

Crayfish Bay Organics
The Little House, Crayfish Bay Airbnb
The Tree House, Crayfish Bay Airbnb

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Lylette Russell Buzzsprout-15980818 Mon, 28 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3156 cacao, cacao farm, chocolate, cocoa, bean to bar, tree to bar, grenada, spices, agritourist, agritourism, agriculture, carribean, farm, farming, chocolate making 1 27 full false From Spring Snow to Last Chance, They Grow the Most Delicious Organic Peaches in the Midst of Sonoma County From Spring Snow to Last Chance, They Grow the Most Delicious Organic Peaches in the Midst of Sonoma County Send a text

Brian Sullivan, Gayle Okumura Sullivan and son Patrick Sullivan purchased Dry Creek Peach in 2000 and are approaching 25 years with the farm.  Dry Creek Peach, located in the heart of Dry Creek Valley of Healdsburg in Sonoma County, California is surrounded by wine country. They are the last remaining fruit farm in the valley with 1000 peach trees. They are the only dedicated, certified organic peach farm in the county. 

The farm produces about 30 varieties of peaches between Memorial Day and Labor Day, some of which will make your mouth water as Gayle describes them in our podcast interview.

Gayle and Brian knew very little about farming and specifically peach farming when entering this business. But they quickly recognized the unique beauty and bounty of the farm, and they took the leap of faith. 

Well, almost 25 years later, they have fine-tuned and expanded the business, learning and adjusting as they go, tackling new and unique challenges every farm season, and leading with a focus and dedication to producing the highest quality peaches.  This focus has opened up unique marketing and distribution opportunities. It’s easy to see why their fruit is savored by famous chefs and food entrepreneurs.  

Picture yourself in Sonoma County, CA among the peach trees and enjoy my chat with Gayle and Brian. 

Dry Creek Peach
Russian River Brewing
Alley 6 - Peach Brandy
Relish Culinary
Dry Creek Valley Sonoma Wine Country
Outstanding in the Field

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Brian Sullivan, Gayle Okumura Sullivan and son Patrick Sullivan purchased Dry Creek Peach in 2000 and are approaching 25 years with the farm.  Dry Creek Peach, located in the heart of Dry Creek Valley of Healdsburg in Sonoma County, California is surrounded by wine country. They are the last remaining fruit farm in the valley with 1000 peach trees. They are the only dedicated, certified organic peach farm in the county. 

The farm produces about 30 varieties of peaches between Memorial Day and Labor Day, some of which will make your mouth water as Gayle describes them in our podcast interview.

Gayle and Brian knew very little about farming and specifically peach farming when entering this business. But they quickly recognized the unique beauty and bounty of the farm, and they took the leap of faith. 

Well, almost 25 years later, they have fine-tuned and expanded the business, learning and adjusting as they go, tackling new and unique challenges every farm season, and leading with a focus and dedication to producing the highest quality peaches.  This focus has opened up unique marketing and distribution opportunities. It’s easy to see why their fruit is savored by famous chefs and food entrepreneurs.  

Picture yourself in Sonoma County, CA among the peach trees and enjoy my chat with Gayle and Brian. 

Dry Creek Peach
Russian River Brewing
Alley 6 - Peach Brandy
Relish Culinary
Dry Creek Valley Sonoma Wine Country
Outstanding in the Field

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Brian and Gayle Sullivan Buzzsprout-15946864 Mon, 21 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 4522 peach farm, peach orchard, peach, peaches, California, wine country, farming, farms, agriculture, agritourism, farm to table, peach recipes, organic peaches, sonoma county, dry creek, sustainable farm 1 26 full false Steady Your Home and Make Every Day Count with Steve and Sandy Steady Your Home and Make Every Day Count with Steve and Sandy Send a text

Steve and Sandy are the inspiring founders of East Tennessee Homestead Alliance.  Sandy reached out to me about the podcast a few months ago.  We ended up speaking on the phone about homesteading and what it really is all about. Many people, including myself who is close to farming and all about sustainability, have this impression of homesteading as a far reaching goal that we would not be capable of doing or achieving in our current environments… that you need to be living out in the boonies without electricity to be even considered a homesteader.  Well, Sandy’s description of homesteading is not that at all.  She basically broke homesteading down to a simple definition - homesteading is all about keeping a steady home. That anyone can homestead and integrate homesteading regardless of their living situation and environment.  I thought that her definition was brilliant and creates a sense of “I can do this.”

So Steve and Sandy are doing just that…they are teaching people how to homestead through their own life learnings and mastery and through the network they have formed in East Tennessee.  

And how does this tie into Agritourism?  Well it ties in in many ways, but most importantly through education… through programs, retreats, alliance events, and, most importantly, through how Steve and Sandy live their own lives.  Steve and Sandy each have inspiring and humbling stories about how they came together and have spent over 39 years making each day count.  

I hope you are left with a feeling of inspiration and exhilaration after listening to my chat with Steve and Sandy!

Steve and Sandy
Wildbody School of Wellness
East Tennessee Homestead Alliance

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Steve and Sandy are the inspiring founders of East Tennessee Homestead Alliance.  Sandy reached out to me about the podcast a few months ago.  We ended up speaking on the phone about homesteading and what it really is all about. Many people, including myself who is close to farming and all about sustainability, have this impression of homesteading as a far reaching goal that we would not be capable of doing or achieving in our current environments… that you need to be living out in the boonies without electricity to be even considered a homesteader.  Well, Sandy’s description of homesteading is not that at all.  She basically broke homesteading down to a simple definition - homesteading is all about keeping a steady home. That anyone can homestead and integrate homesteading regardless of their living situation and environment.  I thought that her definition was brilliant and creates a sense of “I can do this.”

So Steve and Sandy are doing just that…they are teaching people how to homestead through their own life learnings and mastery and through the network they have formed in East Tennessee.  

And how does this tie into Agritourism?  Well it ties in in many ways, but most importantly through education… through programs, retreats, alliance events, and, most importantly, through how Steve and Sandy live their own lives.  Steve and Sandy each have inspiring and humbling stories about how they came together and have spent over 39 years making each day count.  

I hope you are left with a feeling of inspiration and exhilaration after listening to my chat with Steve and Sandy!

Steve and Sandy
Wildbody School of Wellness
East Tennessee Homestead Alliance

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Steve and Sandy Eplett Buzzsprout-15912159 Mon, 14 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 5121 homestead, homesteading, alliance, east tennessee, agritourism, education, farming, farm, wildcraft, homestead school 1 25 full true From Belize, Nantucket, and DC to Coordinating Agritourism for the State of California From Belize, Nantucket, and DC to Coordinating Agritourism for the State of California Send a text

Rachael Callahan is currently California’s Statewide Agritourism Coordinator focused on the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program through UC Davis.  Originally from Delaware, Rachael stumbled into sustainable agriculture from her graduate studies and has focused on local and regional food systems.  She spent time in Belize working on a demonstration agroforestry farm looking at and modeling indigenous land stewardship and farming. She then spent time in Nantucket working for a non profit focused on bolstering the local food economy. She eventually moved to Washington DC to work on an urban farm. Her experiences working in very different and unique communities aligned with her education allowed her to expand her scope of work and take on a challenging role as statewide agritourism opportunity in California. 

In her role, Rachael provides training to farmers and ranchers interested in diversifying their income via agritourism. She examines trends, impacts, challenges, and barriers and identifies solutions.  She also focuses on capacity and network building  by connecting farmers throughout the state.   Rachael is constantly inspired by the resilience, determination, creativity and innovation of California’s agricultural producers and is very grateful for being in a role that supports them. Enjoy my conversation with Rachael Callahan. 

Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program
Agritourism in California
Maya Mountain Research Farm, Belize

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Rachael Callahan is currently California’s Statewide Agritourism Coordinator focused on the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program through UC Davis.  Originally from Delaware, Rachael stumbled into sustainable agriculture from her graduate studies and has focused on local and regional food systems.  She spent time in Belize working on a demonstration agroforestry farm looking at and modeling indigenous land stewardship and farming. She then spent time in Nantucket working for a non profit focused on bolstering the local food economy. She eventually moved to Washington DC to work on an urban farm. Her experiences working in very different and unique communities aligned with her education allowed her to expand her scope of work and take on a challenging role as statewide agritourism opportunity in California. 

In her role, Rachael provides training to farmers and ranchers interested in diversifying their income via agritourism. She examines trends, impacts, challenges, and barriers and identifies solutions.  She also focuses on capacity and network building  by connecting farmers throughout the state.   Rachael is constantly inspired by the resilience, determination, creativity and innovation of California’s agricultural producers and is very grateful for being in a role that supports them. Enjoy my conversation with Rachael Callahan. 

Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program
Agritourism in California
Maya Mountain Research Farm, Belize

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Rachael Callahan Buzzsprout-15653877 Mon, 07 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2825 agritourism, agritourist, agritour, farm, farming, farms, california, uc davis, sustainable, agriculture, organic, organic farming, producers 1 24 full true College Economics Major, Moka Intern, and Agri-Tourist, Anna Morrongiello College Economics Major, Moka Intern, and Agri-Tourist, Anna Morrongiello Send a text

Before she turned 10 years old, she already knew all about zucchini, white eggplant, garlic scapes, heirloom tomatoes, how to tell basil vs. mint vs. oregano, when to plant garlic, and what to pair lavender honey with.  My daughter Anna just turned 20-years old in September 2024 and is pursuing a college major in Economics and minor in Sustainability. She also just finished a summer of 70 hour workweeks and an amazing internship with Moka Origins.  

Our very first podcast episode was with one of the founders of Moka Origins, Jeff Abella.  Moka Origins is working to make cacao and coffee a sustainable source of income for farmers around the world. 165 million people depend on cacao or coffee for their livelihood, however many aren’t paid a living wage and are stuck in poverty. To end this poverty cycle, Moka Origins pays more to farmers for their beans which they use to craft healthier, better tasting chocolate and coffee.  

Moka offers Origin Adventures…incredible adventures to connect people with their global cacao and coffee sourcing partners. My daughter Anna had the opportunity to  spend a week at the Moka Origins headquarters in Honesdale, PA and to participate in their Origin Adventure in Mexico.  In our podcast episode with Jeff Abella, we took a deep dive into all his current origin adventures, but Anna took us a bit deeper and we explored details about her personal experiences on her trip to Mexico. 

Hearing about this trip through the eyes and inspiration of a 20-year old, is a unique perspective and one that I truly enjoyed.  I am really excited for everyone to virtually meet my daughter Anna and very humbled to have the opportunity to interview her so early in her career journey. Maybe one day when she has advanced in her career path, she will reflect fondly on this interview.  Enjoy my conversation with Anna Morrongiello.
 
Cocoa Economy - Crisis or Opportunity?
Moka Origin Mexico Adventure Trip
Riding the Donkey to the Organic Cacao Farm in DR
Women Chocolate Makers Breaking Boundaries in DR
Agri-Tourist Podcast Episode 1 - Jeff Abella, Moka Origins

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Before she turned 10 years old, she already knew all about zucchini, white eggplant, garlic scapes, heirloom tomatoes, how to tell basil vs. mint vs. oregano, when to plant garlic, and what to pair lavender honey with.  My daughter Anna just turned 20-years old in September 2024 and is pursuing a college major in Economics and minor in Sustainability. She also just finished a summer of 70 hour workweeks and an amazing internship with Moka Origins.  

Our very first podcast episode was with one of the founders of Moka Origins, Jeff Abella.  Moka Origins is working to make cacao and coffee a sustainable source of income for farmers around the world. 165 million people depend on cacao or coffee for their livelihood, however many aren’t paid a living wage and are stuck in poverty. To end this poverty cycle, Moka Origins pays more to farmers for their beans which they use to craft healthier, better tasting chocolate and coffee.  

Moka offers Origin Adventures…incredible adventures to connect people with their global cacao and coffee sourcing partners. My daughter Anna had the opportunity to  spend a week at the Moka Origins headquarters in Honesdale, PA and to participate in their Origin Adventure in Mexico.  In our podcast episode with Jeff Abella, we took a deep dive into all his current origin adventures, but Anna took us a bit deeper and we explored details about her personal experiences on her trip to Mexico. 

Hearing about this trip through the eyes and inspiration of a 20-year old, is a unique perspective and one that I truly enjoyed.  I am really excited for everyone to virtually meet my daughter Anna and very humbled to have the opportunity to interview her so early in her career journey. Maybe one day when she has advanced in her career path, she will reflect fondly on this interview.  Enjoy my conversation with Anna Morrongiello.
 
Cocoa Economy - Crisis or Opportunity?
Moka Origin Mexico Adventure Trip
Riding the Donkey to the Organic Cacao Farm in DR
Women Chocolate Makers Breaking Boundaries in DR
Agri-Tourist Podcast Episode 1 - Jeff Abella, Moka Origins

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Anna Morrongiello Buzzsprout-15622102 Mon, 30 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400 4756 mexico, agritourism, agritourist, mexican trip, coffee, chocolate, cacao, cocoa, agritour, agriculture, farming, economics, cocoa economy 1 23 full false Finding Paradise with Laurelee Blanchard from Maui's Leilani Farm Sanctuary Finding Paradise with Laurelee Blanchard from Maui's Leilani Farm Sanctuary Send a text

Laurelee Blanchard, Founder and President of Leilani Farm Sanctuary, and author of “Finding Paradise”, left a lucrative career at a Commercial Real Estate Firm to devote her life to animal protection and humane education. In 1999, she cashed out her life savings and moved from Orange County, California, to Hawaii to the island of Maui. Laurelee acquired an eight-acre parcel of land, on which she created a farm sanctuary—a refuge where animals would be protected from neglect, abuse, and slaughter.

Leilani Farm Sanctuary is a non-profit organization, home to nearly three hundred rescued animals.  They include goats, chickens, rabbits, ducks, a donkey, geese, deer, cats, pigs, sheep, turkeys, guinea pigs and tortoises. The Sanctuary provides educational programs for school groups and special-needs visitors and offers tours and humane education to the general public. They now host weddings at this majestic sanctuary in Maui.  What better way to start a life with someone special…by giving back and supporting animals from neglect, abuse and slaughter.

I want to add that I read Laurelee’s book Finding Paradise after I did this interview.  Laurelee overcame so many intense personal and financial struggles to maintain and keep her animals at the sanctuary.  She gave everything of herself to stay aligned with her mission and to help these animals thrive. During our conversation many of these struggles were not evident in the way that her book discusses them so I highly recommend you read her book.  I am humbled by Laurelee and all that she stands for…. She is humanely human.

Leilani Farm Sanctuary
Finding Paradise Book

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Laurelee Blanchard, Founder and President of Leilani Farm Sanctuary, and author of “Finding Paradise”, left a lucrative career at a Commercial Real Estate Firm to devote her life to animal protection and humane education. In 1999, she cashed out her life savings and moved from Orange County, California, to Hawaii to the island of Maui. Laurelee acquired an eight-acre parcel of land, on which she created a farm sanctuary—a refuge where animals would be protected from neglect, abuse, and slaughter.

Leilani Farm Sanctuary is a non-profit organization, home to nearly three hundred rescued animals.  They include goats, chickens, rabbits, ducks, a donkey, geese, deer, cats, pigs, sheep, turkeys, guinea pigs and tortoises. The Sanctuary provides educational programs for school groups and special-needs visitors and offers tours and humane education to the general public. They now host weddings at this majestic sanctuary in Maui.  What better way to start a life with someone special…by giving back and supporting animals from neglect, abuse and slaughter.

I want to add that I read Laurelee’s book Finding Paradise after I did this interview.  Laurelee overcame so many intense personal and financial struggles to maintain and keep her animals at the sanctuary.  She gave everything of herself to stay aligned with her mission and to help these animals thrive. During our conversation many of these struggles were not evident in the way that her book discusses them so I highly recommend you read her book.  I am humbled by Laurelee and all that she stands for…. She is humanely human.

Leilani Farm Sanctuary
Finding Paradise Book

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Laurelee Blanchard Buzzsprout-15615406 Mon, 23 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3056 farm sanctuary, sanctuary, animal sanctuary, agritourism, agritourist, agritour, farm tour, maui, hawaii, vegan, plant based, leilani, finding paradise 1 22 full false Visit a Vermont Heirloom Apple Oasis with Simon and Erin Visit a Vermont Heirloom Apple Oasis with Simon and Erin Send a text

Apple picking season probably generates fun memories for many people; it does for me.  Apple picking definitely embodies agritourism.  And Scott Farm in Dummerston, Vermont is an eco-certified heirloom apple oasis.  The farm is rich in history - it was settled in 1791 and the orchards were planted in 1911 and now bear over 130 varieties of apples, many of which are heirloom. Scott Farm is a for-profit working farm which is owned by The Landmark Trust USA, a nonprofit historic preservation organization which was gifted the 571 acre property in 1995. 

Today, Scott Farm is led by General Manager Simon Renault and Orchardist Erin Robinson. The orchard is a living, breathing ecosystem that is managed with biological and cultural methods which produce healthy, high quality fruits. The  community can visit the farm,  enjoy their  beautiful grounds,  pick apples, shop at the farmers market, eat at their outdoor cafe, drink cidars produced at their cider mill, tour the property, enjoy community events, and celebrate their own events. 

Although I definitely understand the hard work involved in farming, I never really understood much about apples - even after all the years of visiting orchards and apple picking.  I feel like there was a missed opportunity to educate me about apples during all of those apple picking adventures. This presents a significant opportunity for apple orchards to embrace agritourism in an even more immersive way. My inspiring conversation with Simon and Erin gave me a whole new appreciation for the intricacies involved in apple growing and a renewed interest in learning more about apples. The next time you go apple picking, talk to the farmers and orchardists or take a tour if available, and  learn more about what it takes to grow these gorgeous, healthy fruits.  

Enjoy my conversation with Simon and Erin!

Scott Farm Orchard
Red Tomato
UVM Extension Resources

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Apple picking season probably generates fun memories for many people; it does for me.  Apple picking definitely embodies agritourism.  And Scott Farm in Dummerston, Vermont is an eco-certified heirloom apple oasis.  The farm is rich in history - it was settled in 1791 and the orchards were planted in 1911 and now bear over 130 varieties of apples, many of which are heirloom. Scott Farm is a for-profit working farm which is owned by The Landmark Trust USA, a nonprofit historic preservation organization which was gifted the 571 acre property in 1995. 

Today, Scott Farm is led by General Manager Simon Renault and Orchardist Erin Robinson. The orchard is a living, breathing ecosystem that is managed with biological and cultural methods which produce healthy, high quality fruits. The  community can visit the farm,  enjoy their  beautiful grounds,  pick apples, shop at the farmers market, eat at their outdoor cafe, drink cidars produced at their cider mill, tour the property, enjoy community events, and celebrate their own events. 

Although I definitely understand the hard work involved in farming, I never really understood much about apples - even after all the years of visiting orchards and apple picking.  I feel like there was a missed opportunity to educate me about apples during all of those apple picking adventures. This presents a significant opportunity for apple orchards to embrace agritourism in an even more immersive way. My inspiring conversation with Simon and Erin gave me a whole new appreciation for the intricacies involved in apple growing and a renewed interest in learning more about apples. The next time you go apple picking, talk to the farmers and orchardists or take a tour if available, and  learn more about what it takes to grow these gorgeous, healthy fruits.  

Enjoy my conversation with Simon and Erin!

Scott Farm Orchard
Red Tomato
UVM Extension Resources

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Simon Renault/Erin Robinson Buzzsprout-15253065 Mon, 16 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3074 orchard, apple, apples, heirloom, upick, upick apples, agritourism, farm, farming, farmers market, weddings, wholesale, cidar, apple cidar, pruning 1 21 full false Trust the Journey Round America & Ireland with Pattie Baker Trust the Journey Round America & Ireland with Pattie Baker Send a text

This is our WWOOF Part 2 podcast with Pattie Baker. Pattie is the author of "Round America with a Duck" where she traveled across America right before her 60th birthday via bike, buses, trains and WWOOFing! If you want to learn more about WWOOFING catch Episode 19 from last week.

Pattie’s Book moved me. Her adventure was full of lots of learning, inspiring moments, such interesting people and places, and a few exciting and very SCARY experiences.  But, most of all, Pattie’s journey was full of powerful life lessons. Pattie is about to embark on a new WWOOFing journey Round Ireland.  Can't wait to hear about this new exciting journey.

Before we launch into my meaningful conversation with Pattie, I will start with an important quote from her book: “My journey Round America with a Duck was hard.  It took a certain kind of person and a certain kind of attitude, plus a willingness to change.  To pivot. To trust the journey. Believing I can do this was the bare minimum for achieving it, and anyone who says they can’t, really truly can’t. If you’re thinking well maybe I can then it's for you. It’s that maybe where the magic lives.”

Enjoy my conversation with Pattie Baker...

Round America with a Duck
Pattie Baker on Instagram
Round Ireland with a Duck - Instagram
Pattie Baker on Tik Tok
Pattie Baker's Blog
WWOOF USA
WWOOF Ireland
WWOOF - main global website

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

This is our WWOOF Part 2 podcast with Pattie Baker. Pattie is the author of "Round America with a Duck" where she traveled across America right before her 60th birthday via bike, buses, trains and WWOOFing! If you want to learn more about WWOOFING catch Episode 19 from last week.

Pattie’s Book moved me. Her adventure was full of lots of learning, inspiring moments, such interesting people and places, and a few exciting and very SCARY experiences.  But, most of all, Pattie’s journey was full of powerful life lessons. Pattie is about to embark on a new WWOOFing journey Round Ireland.  Can't wait to hear about this new exciting journey.

Before we launch into my meaningful conversation with Pattie, I will start with an important quote from her book: “My journey Round America with a Duck was hard.  It took a certain kind of person and a certain kind of attitude, plus a willingness to change.  To pivot. To trust the journey. Believing I can do this was the bare minimum for achieving it, and anyone who says they can’t, really truly can’t. If you’re thinking well maybe I can then it's for you. It’s that maybe where the magic lives.”

Enjoy my conversation with Pattie Baker...

Round America with a Duck
Pattie Baker on Instagram
Round Ireland with a Duck - Instagram
Pattie Baker on Tik Tok
Pattie Baker's Blog
WWOOF USA
WWOOF Ireland
WWOOF - main global website

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Pattie Baker Buzzsprout-15711156 Mon, 09 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400 5604 WWOOF, organic, organic farm, organic farming, farming, agriculture, farm internship, organic farmer, volunteering, farm volunteer, agritourism, agritourist, agritour, inspiring book, adventure, travel, ecotourism, farmstay 1 20 full false Let's Go WWOOFing with Jenna Pollard Let's Go WWOOFing with Jenna Pollard Send a text

When I was visiting Crayfish Bay Organics, an organic cacao farm on the island of Grenada, there was an open air cabin filled with ‘WWOOFers.  I had no clue what that term WWOOFer meant at the time.  WWOOF stands for WorldWide Opportunities on Organic Farms. Basically a WWOOFer is a person who is working/volunteering on an organic farm and in return gets free room, board, and food.  What an amazing opportunity to learn, travel, experience the world, and support organic.  I filed that knowledge away at the time,  and, as I began my agritourism journey, WWOOF came across my Instagram. All I could think about was what an amazing agritourism opportunity that WWOOF provides.  Traditionally, the younger generation has embraced WWOOFing.  In Grenada the cabin was filled with much younger adults.  However, I think WWOOFing could be an amazing experience for someone at any age - especially someone trying to reinvent, learn, grow, connect, (or disconnect), and travel.  

Part 1 of this podcast is an interview with Jenna Pollard, the Membership Program Manager of WWOOF USA.  But Part 2 was something that came out of my interview with Jenna.  When I told Jenna I was interested in WWOOFIng after my daughter graduates, she mentioned Pattie Baker, at the time an almost 60- year old woman who WWOOFed across America. Pattie wrote a book about her experience called 'Round America with a Duck'.  Patti describes herself as a 1960s child that was about to turn 60 who traveled solo 10,000 miles via bike, buses, trains and WWOOFing in search of hope in a country at a crossroads and world in crisis during the hottest year on earth. 

So, I had to read Pattie's book and Part 2 of this podcast is with Pattie Baker who will tell us all about her WWOOFing adventure across America.  Join me for the next 2 episodes of The Agri-Tourist podcast and let’s go  WWOOFing!

WWOOF USA
WWOOF FOWO (Federation of WWOOF Organizations)
Round America with a Duck

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

When I was visiting Crayfish Bay Organics, an organic cacao farm on the island of Grenada, there was an open air cabin filled with ‘WWOOFers.  I had no clue what that term WWOOFer meant at the time.  WWOOF stands for WorldWide Opportunities on Organic Farms. Basically a WWOOFer is a person who is working/volunteering on an organic farm and in return gets free room, board, and food.  What an amazing opportunity to learn, travel, experience the world, and support organic.  I filed that knowledge away at the time,  and, as I began my agritourism journey, WWOOF came across my Instagram. All I could think about was what an amazing agritourism opportunity that WWOOF provides.  Traditionally, the younger generation has embraced WWOOFing.  In Grenada the cabin was filled with much younger adults.  However, I think WWOOFing could be an amazing experience for someone at any age - especially someone trying to reinvent, learn, grow, connect, (or disconnect), and travel.  

Part 1 of this podcast is an interview with Jenna Pollard, the Membership Program Manager of WWOOF USA.  But Part 2 was something that came out of my interview with Jenna.  When I told Jenna I was interested in WWOOFIng after my daughter graduates, she mentioned Pattie Baker, at the time an almost 60- year old woman who WWOOFed across America. Pattie wrote a book about her experience called 'Round America with a Duck'.  Patti describes herself as a 1960s child that was about to turn 60 who traveled solo 10,000 miles via bike, buses, trains and WWOOFing in search of hope in a country at a crossroads and world in crisis during the hottest year on earth. 

So, I had to read Pattie's book and Part 2 of this podcast is with Pattie Baker who will tell us all about her WWOOFing adventure across America.  Join me for the next 2 episodes of The Agri-Tourist podcast and let’s go  WWOOFing!

WWOOF USA
WWOOF FOWO (Federation of WWOOF Organizations)
Round America with a Duck

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Jenna Pollard Buzzsprout-15615411 Mon, 02 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2032 wwoof, wwoofer, organic, organic farm, farming, farms, organic farming, agriculture, organic ag, volunteer, intern, agritourism, agritourist, tourist, tourism, agritour, experience, farm experience 1 19 full false From Veggie CSA to Herbal Cocktail & Mocktail Kits with Herbalist & Nurse Linda Shanahan From Veggie CSA to Herbal Cocktail & Mocktail Kits with Herbalist & Nurse Linda Shanahan Send a text

I have always had an interest in growing herbs and learning more about the medicinal qualities of different herbs and plants.  This topic fascinates me.  I know the power of mint and ginger in solving digestive issues and I know that there are so many other natural remedies.   So, I was really looking forward to my interview with Linda Shanahan, Herbalist and Registered Nurse, from Bluestem Botanicals.  

Linda did extensive education in herbalism on the west coast. She is a registered nurse, a farmer, and her company has transitioned from doing a CSA and farmers markets to herbal education, medicinal herb CSAs, and wholesale herbs, syrups and bitters.  COVID forced their farm to pivot into a slightly new and very profitable direction, offering cocktail and mocktail kits for consumers and, most recently, opening a local herb store in their hometown. 

Linda and her husband Eric have allowed their farm to evolve and adjust based on the changing times and needs of their target markets.  They are very astute and creative business people who remain dedicated to their mission around herbs and herbalism. Their journey has inspired me to continue learning and also to allow more room for growth, change, and the occasional hard pivot! 

Bluestem Botanicals
Herbal Education & Workshops
Mocktail Kits
Cocktail Kits
David Winston Herbal Therapeutics

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I have always had an interest in growing herbs and learning more about the medicinal qualities of different herbs and plants.  This topic fascinates me.  I know the power of mint and ginger in solving digestive issues and I know that there are so many other natural remedies.   So, I was really looking forward to my interview with Linda Shanahan, Herbalist and Registered Nurse, from Bluestem Botanicals.  

Linda did extensive education in herbalism on the west coast. She is a registered nurse, a farmer, and her company has transitioned from doing a CSA and farmers markets to herbal education, medicinal herb CSAs, and wholesale herbs, syrups and bitters.  COVID forced their farm to pivot into a slightly new and very profitable direction, offering cocktail and mocktail kits for consumers and, most recently, opening a local herb store in their hometown. 

Linda and her husband Eric have allowed their farm to evolve and adjust based on the changing times and needs of their target markets.  They are very astute and creative business people who remain dedicated to their mission around herbs and herbalism. Their journey has inspired me to continue learning and also to allow more room for growth, change, and the occasional hard pivot! 

Bluestem Botanicals
Herbal Education & Workshops
Mocktail Kits
Cocktail Kits
David Winston Herbal Therapeutics

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Linda Shanahan Buzzsprout-15615417 Mon, 26 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3774 herbalism, herb, herbs, botanicals, farm, farming, agriculture, agritourism, classes, education, herb education, medicinal, CSA, syrups, cocktails, mocktails, kits 1 18 full false Suzie Spahr, Executive Director of NAFDMA, Connects Agritourism Farmers From Across the Globe Suzie Spahr, Executive Director of NAFDMA, Connects Agritourism Farmers From Across the Globe Send a text


I had the pleasure of interviewing Suzie Spahr, the Executive Director of NAFDMA - The North American Farmers Direct Marketing Association.  NAFDMA was founded in 1986 and is a membership based non profit trade association solely focused on advancing the farm direct marketing and agritourism industries. 

NAFDMA is made up of entrepreneurial farm families who invite customers to visit their farms and experience the food and the fun they create, in order to sustain their livelihood. They work to advance agritourism including on-farm retail, pick your own, consumer-supported agriculture, direct delivery, and farmers' markets. They put together events, resources, communications, and peer-to-peer exchanges that bring together new relationships and opportunities for their members.

I have to admit, I had not heard of NAFDMA before I began to focus on agritourism and this podcast.  After I entered this arena, the acronym NAFDMA has been mentioned in many of my US conversations as an organization I should get to know and get involved in.

Suzi provides some insights into her vision for the organization, how they continue to help farmers and the importance that agritourism brings to farms, especially during tough economic times.  I hope you enjoy my chat with Suzie Spahr.

NAFDMA
NAFDMA Events

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text


I had the pleasure of interviewing Suzie Spahr, the Executive Director of NAFDMA - The North American Farmers Direct Marketing Association.  NAFDMA was founded in 1986 and is a membership based non profit trade association solely focused on advancing the farm direct marketing and agritourism industries. 

NAFDMA is made up of entrepreneurial farm families who invite customers to visit their farms and experience the food and the fun they create, in order to sustain their livelihood. They work to advance agritourism including on-farm retail, pick your own, consumer-supported agriculture, direct delivery, and farmers' markets. They put together events, resources, communications, and peer-to-peer exchanges that bring together new relationships and opportunities for their members.

I have to admit, I had not heard of NAFDMA before I began to focus on agritourism and this podcast.  After I entered this arena, the acronym NAFDMA has been mentioned in many of my US conversations as an organization I should get to know and get involved in.

Suzi provides some insights into her vision for the organization, how they continue to help farmers and the importance that agritourism brings to farms, especially during tough economic times.  I hope you enjoy my chat with Suzie Spahr.

NAFDMA
NAFDMA Events

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Suzie Spahr Buzzsprout-15473071 Mon, 19 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3164 agritourist, agritourism, agriculture, farming, farm, farmer, farmers, network, farm network, marketing, networking 1 17 full false Tassie Farmstay Owner, Tim Parsons, Revitalizes Curringa Farm and the Tasmanian Devil Really Exists! Tassie Farmstay Owner, Tim Parsons, Revitalizes Curringa Farm and the Tasmanian Devil Really Exists! Send a text

We are headed to Tassie today….that’s Tasmania for those who are not familiar.  And we are chatting with Tim Parsons. Tim and his wife Jane are 6th generation Tasmanian Farmers who own Curringa Farm, Tassie's favorite farmstay with national award winning cottages, farm tours, and group bbq meals. 

Curringa Farm is a 750-acre farm focused on raising sheep, growing crops for seeds, and growing opium for pharmaceutical medicine.  I am sure I got your attention there! The farm is a favorite farmstay with several cottages on the property and is expanding as we speak. 

Tim tells us how he worked to revitalize and grow his farm.  In my opinion he is a master marketer who understands the real value of building relationships, sometimes in a very grassroots way, something I think he learned from his mom.  

Upon entering this conversation, I knew very little about Tasmania, but now I feel like I have a great connection in Tassie and look forward to one day visiting Curringa Farm. 

Curringa Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

We are headed to Tassie today….that’s Tasmania for those who are not familiar.  And we are chatting with Tim Parsons. Tim and his wife Jane are 6th generation Tasmanian Farmers who own Curringa Farm, Tassie's favorite farmstay with national award winning cottages, farm tours, and group bbq meals. 

Curringa Farm is a 750-acre farm focused on raising sheep, growing crops for seeds, and growing opium for pharmaceutical medicine.  I am sure I got your attention there! The farm is a favorite farmstay with several cottages on the property and is expanding as we speak. 

Tim tells us how he worked to revitalize and grow his farm.  In my opinion he is a master marketer who understands the real value of building relationships, sometimes in a very grassroots way, something I think he learned from his mom.  

Upon entering this conversation, I knew very little about Tasmania, but now I feel like I have a great connection in Tassie and look forward to one day visiting Curringa Farm. 

Curringa Farm

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Tim Parsons Buzzsprout-15478014 Mon, 12 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 4396 tasmania, tassie, australia, agritourism, agritourist, agritour, farmstay, farming, agriculture, farm, seeds, global tourism, tourism 1 16 full true Creating a Lifetime Love of Learning at Grand View Farm, Vermont Creating a Lifetime Love of Learning at Grand View Farm, Vermont Send a text

We all know that things happen for reasons.  And many times, those reasons do not reveal themselves until years later.  Kim & Chuck Goodling moved their family from Vermont to Pennsylvania, in order to eventually make their way back to Vermont and find their current historic farm property, Grand View Farm, in Washington, VT. 

Grand View Farm is a diversified Gotland sheep farm, family homestead, and farmstay bed and breakfast. Kim and Chuck focus on restoring and reclaiming old pastures and rebuilding soil health. They raise their animals in the most natural and environmentally sustainable manner possible and passionately mentor one-on-one with other farmers looking to raise sheep.  

Their focus is on the land, livestock, & building local community…Kim describes that these are the 3 ingredients for a thriving farm. I definitely agree with her that community is vital on both a personal and business level and that local interconnections are required in order for any farm to thrive.                 

Kim produces stunning high quality wool products and also offers private fiber art classes and retreats. One theme that I hear from many of the farm families I interview is how integrated their children become in the farm…not by force…but by their own curiosity.  Kim’s desire is to leave her children with a lifetime love of learning. 

Enjoy my conversation with Kim Gooding from Grand View Farm. 

Grand View Farm, VT
Online Farm Store
Grand View Farm Farmstay

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

We all know that things happen for reasons.  And many times, those reasons do not reveal themselves until years later.  Kim & Chuck Goodling moved their family from Vermont to Pennsylvania, in order to eventually make their way back to Vermont and find their current historic farm property, Grand View Farm, in Washington, VT. 

Grand View Farm is a diversified Gotland sheep farm, family homestead, and farmstay bed and breakfast. Kim and Chuck focus on restoring and reclaiming old pastures and rebuilding soil health. They raise their animals in the most natural and environmentally sustainable manner possible and passionately mentor one-on-one with other farmers looking to raise sheep.  

Their focus is on the land, livestock, & building local community…Kim describes that these are the 3 ingredients for a thriving farm. I definitely agree with her that community is vital on both a personal and business level and that local interconnections are required in order for any farm to thrive.                 

Kim produces stunning high quality wool products and also offers private fiber art classes and retreats. One theme that I hear from many of the farm families I interview is how integrated their children become in the farm…not by force…but by their own curiosity.  Kim’s desire is to leave her children with a lifetime love of learning. 

Enjoy my conversation with Kim Gooding from Grand View Farm. 

Grand View Farm, VT
Online Farm Store
Grand View Farm Farmstay

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Kim Goodling Buzzsprout-15493905 Mon, 05 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3098 agritourism, agritourist, vermont, farming, farm, farmstay, farmstead, bed and breakfast, sheep, sheep farm, agriculture, agritourist, tourism, farming 1 15 full true Exploring New Zealand with Agritourism Expert, Marijke Dunselman of Agritourism.NZ Exploring New Zealand with Agritourism Expert, Marijke Dunselman of Agritourism.NZ Send a text

In this episode of The Agri-tourist Podcast, we are headed all the way to New Zealand with my guest Marijke Dunselman from Agritourism New Zealand.

Originally from the Netherlands, Marijke has lived in many countries and speaks 4 languages, but decided to build her roots in New Zealand, another country I did not know much about until now!

Marijke’s journey starts in marketing, transitions to tourism, and then she takes the leap of faith and launches her own tourism and eventually agritourism business.  She is the founder of Agritourism.NZ and the Agritourism Academy. Over the past 26 years, she  has worked with hundreds of agritourism operators. Her business is focused on helping farmers to diversify their business through agritourism and helping them market their farms within the tourism industry.  

In addition, she established  the ‘ Agritourism Academy & Community ’ in 2024, a first of its kind.  The Academy is an interactive online community helping farmers and landowners start and grow successful agritourism businesses. It includes all training, planners, resources, networking opportunities, and live sessions.

You can tell, based on her enthusiastic nature and knowledge, Marijke is doing what she loves and is fulfilled when she hears success stories from her farmers. 

Agritourism.NZ
Agritourism Academy

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

In this episode of The Agri-tourist Podcast, we are headed all the way to New Zealand with my guest Marijke Dunselman from Agritourism New Zealand.

Originally from the Netherlands, Marijke has lived in many countries and speaks 4 languages, but decided to build her roots in New Zealand, another country I did not know much about until now!

Marijke’s journey starts in marketing, transitions to tourism, and then she takes the leap of faith and launches her own tourism and eventually agritourism business.  She is the founder of Agritourism.NZ and the Agritourism Academy. Over the past 26 years, she  has worked with hundreds of agritourism operators. Her business is focused on helping farmers to diversify their business through agritourism and helping them market their farms within the tourism industry.  

In addition, she established  the ‘ Agritourism Academy & Community ’ in 2024, a first of its kind.  The Academy is an interactive online community helping farmers and landowners start and grow successful agritourism businesses. It includes all training, planners, resources, networking opportunities, and live sessions.

You can tell, based on her enthusiastic nature and knowledge, Marijke is doing what she loves and is fulfilled when she hears success stories from her farmers. 

Agritourism.NZ
Agritourism Academy

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Marijke Dunselman Buzzsprout-15473040 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3261 new zealand, agritourism, NZ, agritour, farmstay, farmstays, farming, farm, new zealand farms, agriculture, agritourist 1 14 full false Mother of Agritourism Had to Close Her Organization in Belarus Mother of Agritourism Had to Close Her Organization in Belarus Send a text

My inspiring guest is Dr. Valeria Klitsounova from Belarus.  Yes, Belarus! That might sound surprising to many, especially during the current times.  But, when given the introduction, I thought this was a very important opportunity to listen and learn.   Obviously my conversation is focused on agritourism. However, the bigger issues of today are at the core of our discussion. Dr. Valeria’s story is truly inspiring and made me stop and reflect on what it means to be an American and how I have access to so many opportunities, especially in business, that I may take for granted at times.

Raised by her aunt and grandmother, Dr. Valeria grew up thinking critically and developed her independence and leadership skills at a young age. She and her husband founded and owned a museum of history and rural culture in Belarus.  The Museum allowed her to share Belarusian history, one of her passions.  After selling the museum, she looked for other opportunities to bring information about Belarus to the world. In 2002, Dr. Valeria introduced the idea of agritourism to Belarus. Her focus was to provide more income opportunities to rural communities throughout the country. She founded the Belarusian Association of Rural and Ecotourism, also known as  “Country Escape,” a nonprofit dedicated to promoting Belarus as a tourist destination. Through her incredible dedication and hard work, Belarus was selected as the Best Agritourism destination in 2016 and 2018 by National Geographic.

When she started Country Escape there were very few farmsteads that supported rural tourism.  Her influence and leadership dubbed her as the mother of agritourism in Belarus. A few years ago, after 20 years leading Country Escape,  the Belarus government required her to close her company, leaving 3000 farmsteads without her support. Now, a few years after closing her company, the tourism industry has under 1000 active farmsteads practicing rural tourism.

Dr. Valeria is now focused on her senior lecturer position at Belarus State University where she instructs students in marketing, advertising, public relations and ecotourism.  In addition, she is on the Board of the Global Agritourism Network.  So, although her company was forced to close, she has continued to pursue what is near and dear to her heart through diverse and impactful means.   

Student travel website
Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
Mother of Agritourism in Belarus

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

My inspiring guest is Dr. Valeria Klitsounova from Belarus.  Yes, Belarus! That might sound surprising to many, especially during the current times.  But, when given the introduction, I thought this was a very important opportunity to listen and learn.   Obviously my conversation is focused on agritourism. However, the bigger issues of today are at the core of our discussion. Dr. Valeria’s story is truly inspiring and made me stop and reflect on what it means to be an American and how I have access to so many opportunities, especially in business, that I may take for granted at times.

Raised by her aunt and grandmother, Dr. Valeria grew up thinking critically and developed her independence and leadership skills at a young age. She and her husband founded and owned a museum of history and rural culture in Belarus.  The Museum allowed her to share Belarusian history, one of her passions.  After selling the museum, she looked for other opportunities to bring information about Belarus to the world. In 2002, Dr. Valeria introduced the idea of agritourism to Belarus. Her focus was to provide more income opportunities to rural communities throughout the country. She founded the Belarusian Association of Rural and Ecotourism, also known as  “Country Escape,” a nonprofit dedicated to promoting Belarus as a tourist destination. Through her incredible dedication and hard work, Belarus was selected as the Best Agritourism destination in 2016 and 2018 by National Geographic.

When she started Country Escape there were very few farmsteads that supported rural tourism.  Her influence and leadership dubbed her as the mother of agritourism in Belarus. A few years ago, after 20 years leading Country Escape,  the Belarus government required her to close her company, leaving 3000 farmsteads without her support. Now, a few years after closing her company, the tourism industry has under 1000 active farmsteads practicing rural tourism.

Dr. Valeria is now focused on her senior lecturer position at Belarus State University where she instructs students in marketing, advertising, public relations and ecotourism.  In addition, she is on the Board of the Global Agritourism Network.  So, although her company was forced to close, she has continued to pursue what is near and dear to her heart through diverse and impactful means.   

Student travel website
Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
Mother of Agritourism in Belarus

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Dr. Valeria Klitsounova Buzzsprout-15440033 Mon, 22 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 5125 agritourism, agritourist, rural tourism, ecotourism, agritour, farm, farming, farmland 1 13 full false Connect with Agritourism Pioneer, Beth Kennet, Liberty Hill Farm Connect with Agritourism Pioneer, Beth Kennet, Liberty Hill Farm Send a text

I was joined by Beth Kennet, owner of Liberty Hill Farm and a pioneer in the world of agritourism in the state of Vermont and probably worldwide. The farm experience that Beth and her family offer is truly an immersive farm-family experience.  What does that mean?   Well her multigenerational guests, many of whom are returning for over 30 years now with grandkids, truly become part of their 10-room farmhouse in Rochester, VT. That includes eating family meals at the same table every day, sharing food that is sourced from local farms and producers, helping with farm chores, and learning about the real day-to-day tasks of running a dairy farm.                                                               

As Beth describes, it's not unusual for her grandchildren to plop down beside a guest and question them about where they are from or offer them some fresh mint for their tea - that they will run outside and quickly harvest. 

Beth tells us the serendipitous story about how she and her husband Bob found their farm. It’s truly a gem of a story. 

My invigorating conversation with Beth re-affirmed for me my WHY. Why am I so drawn to agriculture and farming?  It’s all about the connections and relationships that it creates.  Beth explained that the connections she has made with people from around the world - her extended family of the heart as she describes -  drives her passion each and every day. Farming and agriculture have sparked so many new relationships for her. And when she connects with people, she has their attention and the opportunity to educate them about the critical importance of KNOWING where our food comes from including the complexities, opportunities and challenges that surrounds that process.

And, as Beth’s home and farm is very much in constant motion and highly energized, this podcast too experiences the high energy environment that Beth thrives in at her farm. Now, let’s hear from Beth, and occasionally from her visiting friend and sister of the heart Lois…

Liberty Hill Farm
Cabot Creamery

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I was joined by Beth Kennet, owner of Liberty Hill Farm and a pioneer in the world of agritourism in the state of Vermont and probably worldwide. The farm experience that Beth and her family offer is truly an immersive farm-family experience.  What does that mean?   Well her multigenerational guests, many of whom are returning for over 30 years now with grandkids, truly become part of their 10-room farmhouse in Rochester, VT. That includes eating family meals at the same table every day, sharing food that is sourced from local farms and producers, helping with farm chores, and learning about the real day-to-day tasks of running a dairy farm.                                                               

As Beth describes, it's not unusual for her grandchildren to plop down beside a guest and question them about where they are from or offer them some fresh mint for their tea - that they will run outside and quickly harvest. 

Beth tells us the serendipitous story about how she and her husband Bob found their farm. It’s truly a gem of a story. 

My invigorating conversation with Beth re-affirmed for me my WHY. Why am I so drawn to agriculture and farming?  It’s all about the connections and relationships that it creates.  Beth explained that the connections she has made with people from around the world - her extended family of the heart as she describes -  drives her passion each and every day. Farming and agriculture have sparked so many new relationships for her. And when she connects with people, she has their attention and the opportunity to educate them about the critical importance of KNOWING where our food comes from including the complexities, opportunities and challenges that surrounds that process.

And, as Beth’s home and farm is very much in constant motion and highly energized, this podcast too experiences the high energy environment that Beth thrives in at her farm. Now, let’s hear from Beth, and occasionally from her visiting friend and sister of the heart Lois…

Liberty Hill Farm
Cabot Creamery

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Beth Kennet Buzzsprout-15379539 Mon, 15 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3266 farm, farming, agritourism, agritourist, agriculture, dairy farm, farmer, farm tours, farmstay, bnb, vermont, vermont farm, cabot, creamery, milk 1 12 full false Blueberries, Treehouses & Sharks, Oh My! Jyl and Rico Bring Us Back to Nature! Blueberries, Treehouses & Sharks, Oh My! Jyl and Rico Bring Us Back to Nature! Send a text

The Blueberry Treehouse Farm is a family-friendly, fun, and picturesque event space created by owners Jyl and Rico Rivera in the rural, vibrant community of West Falls, NY (near Buffalo). They have taken a historic farm growing blueberries for over 35 years to the next level by opening it to thousands of visitors.  They combine the farm with their business and passion so visitors can see, experience, and treasure a treehouse for themselves. As parents, the owners of a small business, and creative visionaries, they seek to change the image of a farm to become a cool place to visit often, connect with nature and benefit the entire community.

The farm includes a u-pick organic blueberry farm, The Blueberry Treehouse Cafe, a magical playground (shark and all!), Blueberry Jam concerts...with. more creative fun being planned for the future.

Rico and Jyl have such an amazing energy between them - Rico is the creative contractor while Jyl is the organized implementer and organizer - they compliment each other perfectly.  I had so much fun learning from Rico and Jyl...and I am confident you will too!  Enjoy my conversation with Rico and Jyl!

Blueberry Treehouse Farm
Blueberry Treehouse Cafe
Buffalo Treehouse

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

The Blueberry Treehouse Farm is a family-friendly, fun, and picturesque event space created by owners Jyl and Rico Rivera in the rural, vibrant community of West Falls, NY (near Buffalo). They have taken a historic farm growing blueberries for over 35 years to the next level by opening it to thousands of visitors.  They combine the farm with their business and passion so visitors can see, experience, and treasure a treehouse for themselves. As parents, the owners of a small business, and creative visionaries, they seek to change the image of a farm to become a cool place to visit often, connect with nature and benefit the entire community.

The farm includes a u-pick organic blueberry farm, The Blueberry Treehouse Cafe, a magical playground (shark and all!), Blueberry Jam concerts...with. more creative fun being planned for the future.

Rico and Jyl have such an amazing energy between them - Rico is the creative contractor while Jyl is the organized implementer and organizer - they compliment each other perfectly.  I had so much fun learning from Rico and Jyl...and I am confident you will too!  Enjoy my conversation with Rico and Jyl!

Blueberry Treehouse Farm
Blueberry Treehouse Cafe
Buffalo Treehouse

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Rico Rivera/Jyl Rivera Buzzsprout-15253062 Mon, 08 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3827 organic, blueberries, upick, farm, farming, treehouse, cafe, airbnb, blueberry, agritourism, bands, blueberry jam 1 11 full false Jurassic Park Comes Alive at the Cotton Tree Lodge in Belize Jurassic Park Comes Alive at the Cotton Tree Lodge in Belize Send a text

It was February 2014 and I left New York in a blizzard, arriving one day early for my first agritourism experience and agricultural chocolate tour in Belize. Our group was staying at the Cotton Tree Lodge in Punta Gorda, Belize.  The hotel was very rustic, located right by the Moho River, surrounded by jungles.

All of our meals were served in the main lodge area.  While eating dinner with some of the other guests, the hotel offered me an upgrade to the jungle cabana for the first night, until joining the rest of the chocolate tour guests.  I hesitated a few moments. I had reviewed the hotel website prior to arriving and recalled reading about the infamous Jungle Cabana, located a quarter of a mile in the jungle, away from the other cabanas. Although I was extremely hesitant spending my first night in Belize alone in the middle of the jungle,  I accepted the upgrade.  I figured that this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to spend a night alone in the jungles of Belize – what the heck!!!  That is...until the jungle came alive...

Join me as I narrate my first agritourism experience in the Central American country of Belize.  And then meet two women who help manage the Cotton Tree Lodge, one of which was there in 2014 when I first visited.  This trip and my night in the Jungle Cabana at Cotton Tree Lodge certainly produced memories I will never forget!

Cotton Tree Lodge
Uncommon Cacao
Dandelion Chocolate

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

It was February 2014 and I left New York in a blizzard, arriving one day early for my first agritourism experience and agricultural chocolate tour in Belize. Our group was staying at the Cotton Tree Lodge in Punta Gorda, Belize.  The hotel was very rustic, located right by the Moho River, surrounded by jungles.

All of our meals were served in the main lodge area.  While eating dinner with some of the other guests, the hotel offered me an upgrade to the jungle cabana for the first night, until joining the rest of the chocolate tour guests.  I hesitated a few moments. I had reviewed the hotel website prior to arriving and recalled reading about the infamous Jungle Cabana, located a quarter of a mile in the jungle, away from the other cabanas. Although I was extremely hesitant spending my first night in Belize alone in the middle of the jungle,  I accepted the upgrade.  I figured that this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to spend a night alone in the jungles of Belize – what the heck!!!  That is...until the jungle came alive...

Join me as I narrate my first agritourism experience in the Central American country of Belize.  And then meet two women who help manage the Cotton Tree Lodge, one of which was there in 2014 when I first visited.  This trip and my night in the Jungle Cabana at Cotton Tree Lodge certainly produced memories I will never forget!

Cotton Tree Lodge
Uncommon Cacao
Dandelion Chocolate

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Valerie Chavarria/Evelyn Nerio Buzzsprout-15253104 Mon, 01 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3281 belize, ecotourism, agritourism, ecotour, agritour, howler monkey, cotton tree lodge, ecolodge, rainforest, chocolate, cacao 1 10 full false Promoting Compassion in Action for Farm Animals at Berkshire Farm Sanctuary Promoting Compassion in Action for Farm Animals at Berkshire Farm Sanctuary Send a text

Dori Scofield is the Founder of Save a Pet Animal Rescue in Long Island, NY - a non profit that has been serving the Long Island community when it comes to dog and cat rescue and rehoming for over 24 years.  Dori’s connection and compassion for animals is and will always be a significant part of her life journey.   I have known Dori for many years - I have watched her lead, innovate, fight for, and be the voice for animals - sometimes vocally but more so through real action.  She most recently manifested her vision  to create an animal sanctuary with the focus on compassion in action for animals facing slaughter. She is putting faces and personalities to these animals.   

Located in Peru MA, Berkshire Farm Sanctuary is spread over 20 acres and is currently the home to several sheep, pigs and goats that are near and dear to Dori’s heart.  Dori has a beautiful farmhouse on the property where guests can stay and connect with the animals and savor the exquisite beauty of the Berkshires.  Dori plans to expand the sanctuary in the coming years to include horses and other animals, host weddings and events, and possibly integrate a thrift store, candle shop, and a place to host local art. However, her mantra in her businesses and many projects has always been that ‘slow and steady wins the race.’ And she is applying that same mantra to Berkshire Farm Sanctuary.   She and her team are focused on creating a sustainable environment for the animals to thrive and happily and healthily live out their lives. 

Berkshire Farm Sanctuary
Save a Pet
Reserve the Berkshire Farm Sanctuary House

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Dori Scofield is the Founder of Save a Pet Animal Rescue in Long Island, NY - a non profit that has been serving the Long Island community when it comes to dog and cat rescue and rehoming for over 24 years.  Dori’s connection and compassion for animals is and will always be a significant part of her life journey.   I have known Dori for many years - I have watched her lead, innovate, fight for, and be the voice for animals - sometimes vocally but more so through real action.  She most recently manifested her vision  to create an animal sanctuary with the focus on compassion in action for animals facing slaughter. She is putting faces and personalities to these animals.   

Located in Peru MA, Berkshire Farm Sanctuary is spread over 20 acres and is currently the home to several sheep, pigs and goats that are near and dear to Dori’s heart.  Dori has a beautiful farmhouse on the property where guests can stay and connect with the animals and savor the exquisite beauty of the Berkshires.  Dori plans to expand the sanctuary in the coming years to include horses and other animals, host weddings and events, and possibly integrate a thrift store, candle shop, and a place to host local art. However, her mantra in her businesses and many projects has always been that ‘slow and steady wins the race.’ And she is applying that same mantra to Berkshire Farm Sanctuary.   She and her team are focused on creating a sustainable environment for the animals to thrive and happily and healthily live out their lives. 

Berkshire Farm Sanctuary
Save a Pet
Reserve the Berkshire Farm Sanctuary House

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Dori Scofield Buzzsprout-15187761 Mon, 24 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2469 farm, farm sanctuary, sanctuary, animal sanctuary, farmstay, rescue, animal rescue, berkshires, massachusetts 1 9 full false Rachael Jones invites you to 'Dine on the Land' with 100 Guests at Locavore Farm Rachael Jones invites you to 'Dine on the Land' with 100 Guests at Locavore Farm Send a text

I had the pleasure of interviewing Rachael Jones from Locavore Farm.  I have to admit, I didn’t know what Locavore meant before prepping for this interview.  If you don’t know the definition, you will learn about it  real soon!  My interview with Rachel was very compelling.  I related to her on many levels.  

Rachael and her husband had successful careers and lived outside of Chicago raising their kids.  Life was good and starting to go by quickly.  They could have kept this lifestyle going and would have been fine.  But they were unfulfilled in many ways and wanted more out of life.  They took the leap and purchased a farm. That’s a story in itself.  But then they knew they couldn’t sustain a farm through farmers markets and the traditional ‘farming’ means and they also were hungry for community.  So, although there were several financial and regulatory challenges along the way, they embraced agritourism and now bring over 100 guests to their farm on Thursdays and Saturdays to dine on the farm.  This ‘dine on the farm’ experience is truly unique and has created a significant sense of community that is now extending way beyond Illinois and attracting customers from all parts of the country and abroad. Let’s get started and meet Rachel! 

Locavore Farm
Dine on the Land
Farm Stay
Locavore U
Healing Soils Foundation
Potlikker Capital

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I had the pleasure of interviewing Rachael Jones from Locavore Farm.  I have to admit, I didn’t know what Locavore meant before prepping for this interview.  If you don’t know the definition, you will learn about it  real soon!  My interview with Rachel was very compelling.  I related to her on many levels.  

Rachael and her husband had successful careers and lived outside of Chicago raising their kids.  Life was good and starting to go by quickly.  They could have kept this lifestyle going and would have been fine.  But they were unfulfilled in many ways and wanted more out of life.  They took the leap and purchased a farm. That’s a story in itself.  But then they knew they couldn’t sustain a farm through farmers markets and the traditional ‘farming’ means and they also were hungry for community.  So, although there were several financial and regulatory challenges along the way, they embraced agritourism and now bring over 100 guests to their farm on Thursdays and Saturdays to dine on the farm.  This ‘dine on the farm’ experience is truly unique and has created a significant sense of community that is now extending way beyond Illinois and attracting customers from all parts of the country and abroad. Let’s get started and meet Rachel! 

Locavore Farm
Dine on the Land
Farm Stay
Locavore U
Healing Soils Foundation
Potlikker Capital

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Rachael Jones Buzzsprout-15136289 Mon, 17 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3263 1 8 full true South Carolina's Ag & Art Tour Embodies What AgriTourism Is All About South Carolina's Ag & Art Tour Embodies What AgriTourism Is All About Send a text

Will Culler, PhD from Clemson University is the Lexington County Extension Coordinator and also the Director for the South Carolina Ag & Art Tour.  The tour is the largest free farm and art tour in the nation with over 85,000 visitors participating since 2012. The South Carolina Ag + Art Tour is a self-guided tour of farms and markets featuring local artisans at every stop! During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to see first-hand where their food comes from, watch artists in action and purchase their works, enjoy the melodies of local musicians, and learn more about rural life. 

Since Will assumed his Director role in 2019, the tour has expanded into several South Carolina counties.  Will’s agriculture and business background coupled with his focus on education and agritourism makes him the perfect leader to expand the opportunities that the Ag and Art Tour represents and help establish the prototype for communities outside of South Carolina to replicate.  As we discuss, these types of agritourism initiatives bring people together, educate, create connections, and instill a sense of community. Enjoy my conversation with Will Culler and two of his students at Clemson University.

Art & Ag Tour
Art & Ag Tourmap
Will Culler Ph.D.
Clemson University Extension
The Ag + Art Tour, a video
Art & Ag Tour Instagram
Art & Ag Tour Facebook
ACRE - Agribusiness Center for Research and Entrepreneurship (South Carolina Department of Agriculture)
Palmetto Pride, South Carolina’s Anti-Litter Organization
South Carolina Agritourism Association
NAFDMA

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Will Culler, PhD from Clemson University is the Lexington County Extension Coordinator and also the Director for the South Carolina Ag & Art Tour.  The tour is the largest free farm and art tour in the nation with over 85,000 visitors participating since 2012. The South Carolina Ag + Art Tour is a self-guided tour of farms and markets featuring local artisans at every stop! During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to see first-hand where their food comes from, watch artists in action and purchase their works, enjoy the melodies of local musicians, and learn more about rural life. 

Since Will assumed his Director role in 2019, the tour has expanded into several South Carolina counties.  Will’s agriculture and business background coupled with his focus on education and agritourism makes him the perfect leader to expand the opportunities that the Ag and Art Tour represents and help establish the prototype for communities outside of South Carolina to replicate.  As we discuss, these types of agritourism initiatives bring people together, educate, create connections, and instill a sense of community. Enjoy my conversation with Will Culler and two of his students at Clemson University.

Art & Ag Tour
Art & Ag Tourmap
Will Culler Ph.D.
Clemson University Extension
The Ag + Art Tour, a video
Art & Ag Tour Instagram
Art & Ag Tour Facebook
ACRE - Agribusiness Center for Research and Entrepreneurship (South Carolina Department of Agriculture)
Palmetto Pride, South Carolina’s Anti-Litter Organization
South Carolina Agritourism Association
NAFDMA

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Will Culler Buzzsprout-15136286 Mon, 10 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2882 1 7 full false Skip the Farmers Market and Learn How to Profit from a Pick Your Own Farm with Megan Neubauer Skip the Farmers Market and Learn How to Profit from a Pick Your Own Farm with Megan Neubauer Send a text

My former organic vegetable and sunflower farm had a few revenue channels. The one revenue channel that probably required the most labor was the numerous farmers markets. It was so exciting to make a new connection and add a new market, especially with our mobile farm stand truck. Being a marketer at heart, creating new connections was my favorite part!  

However, I recall the anticipation of market days…waking up super early to harvest, clean, prep, pack the truck, drive to the destination, move all the produce and sunflowers out of the truck to the market destination, setup the market, sell and connect with customers, pack up all the stuff that wasn’t sold, head back to the farm, unpack, sort everything out for donation, sale or compost, and then think about what we needed to prep for the next day.  I didn’t mind the work at all . I actually enjoyed it.  But was it worth the revenue it was bringing in or could my time be used more wisely,...and economically?  The answer was yes and Megan Neubauer describes it perfectly in her book, Pick Your Own Farming, Free Yourself from Farmers Markets and Join the Agritourism Revolution.  Jump right in and learn why agritourism became a no-brainer for her farm and transitioned her to a very profitable Texas farm.

Catchup with Megan, Episode 85.

Pick-Your-Own Farming: Free Yourself from Farmers Markets and Join the Agritourism Revolution!
Pure Land Farm
Pure Land Farm Facebook
Pure Land Farm Instagram

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

My former organic vegetable and sunflower farm had a few revenue channels. The one revenue channel that probably required the most labor was the numerous farmers markets. It was so exciting to make a new connection and add a new market, especially with our mobile farm stand truck. Being a marketer at heart, creating new connections was my favorite part!  

However, I recall the anticipation of market days…waking up super early to harvest, clean, prep, pack the truck, drive to the destination, move all the produce and sunflowers out of the truck to the market destination, setup the market, sell and connect with customers, pack up all the stuff that wasn’t sold, head back to the farm, unpack, sort everything out for donation, sale or compost, and then think about what we needed to prep for the next day.  I didn’t mind the work at all . I actually enjoyed it.  But was it worth the revenue it was bringing in or could my time be used more wisely,...and economically?  The answer was yes and Megan Neubauer describes it perfectly in her book, Pick Your Own Farming, Free Yourself from Farmers Markets and Join the Agritourism Revolution.  Jump right in and learn why agritourism became a no-brainer for her farm and transitioned her to a very profitable Texas farm.

Catchup with Megan, Episode 85.

Pick-Your-Own Farming: Free Yourself from Farmers Markets and Join the Agritourism Revolution!
Pure Land Farm
Pure Land Farm Facebook
Pure Land Farm Instagram

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Megan Neubauer Buzzsprout-15116754 Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2906 farmer, organic, organic farmer, organic farming, agritourism, pick your own, blackberries, blackberry, agritourist, Texas, vegetables, flowers, sunflowers 1 6 full false UVM Extension Professor Lisa Chase Helps Lead Global Agritourism Network UVM Extension Professor Lisa Chase Helps Lead Global Agritourism Network Send a text

I had the pleasure of speaking with Lisa Chase from the University of Vermont.  Lisa’s primary role  is the Natural Resources Specialist at University of Vermont Extension, where she focuses on the intersection between environmental management, food systems and community development. She is also the Director of the Vermont Tourism Research Center, emphasizing tourism and recreation in her programming. Lisa  has a significant focus on agritourism in Vermont.  

Beyond Vermont, Lisa also collaborates as part of the National Extension Tourism Network, working with partners throughout the United States.  And, most recently, she is heading up the new Global Agritourism Network which we will learn more about in today's podcast.  I was so excited to meet with Lisa and really dig deeper into what agritourism really is. Our conversation inspired some new thinking about how we are defining agritourism and the impact of these definitions on farms and farm customers.  I hope you enjoy my conversation with Lisa Chase as much as I did. She is truly an inspiring leader who has been very effective at bringing people together towards a common goal. 

Vermont Agritourism Collaborative
Vermont Tourism Research Center
National Extension Tourism Network
Global Agritourism Network
Some important resources for individuals looking to pursue agritourism:
Agritourism Business Planning Sessions
Farm-Based Education Network
Vermont Community Loan Fund
USDA Value-Added Producer Grants
UVM Extension Safety, Liability and Regulations for Agritourism

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

I had the pleasure of speaking with Lisa Chase from the University of Vermont.  Lisa’s primary role  is the Natural Resources Specialist at University of Vermont Extension, where she focuses on the intersection between environmental management, food systems and community development. She is also the Director of the Vermont Tourism Research Center, emphasizing tourism and recreation in her programming. Lisa  has a significant focus on agritourism in Vermont.  

Beyond Vermont, Lisa also collaborates as part of the National Extension Tourism Network, working with partners throughout the United States.  And, most recently, she is heading up the new Global Agritourism Network which we will learn more about in today's podcast.  I was so excited to meet with Lisa and really dig deeper into what agritourism really is. Our conversation inspired some new thinking about how we are defining agritourism and the impact of these definitions on farms and farm customers.  I hope you enjoy my conversation with Lisa Chase as much as I did. She is truly an inspiring leader who has been very effective at bringing people together towards a common goal. 

Vermont Agritourism Collaborative
Vermont Tourism Research Center
National Extension Tourism Network
Global Agritourism Network
Some important resources for individuals looking to pursue agritourism:
Agritourism Business Planning Sessions
Farm-Based Education Network
Vermont Community Loan Fund
USDA Value-Added Producer Grants
UVM Extension Safety, Liability and Regulations for Agritourism

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Lisa Chase, UVM Extension Professor Buzzsprout-15083608 Mon, 27 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3264 agritourism, vermont, UVM, University of Vermont, Vermont extension, agritourist, farming, farm, farmer, agriculture, experiential, farm education 1 5 full false Building Business takes "Grace, Grit & Lipstick" according to Author & FarmGirl Shelby Watson-Hampton Building Business takes "Grace, Grit & Lipstick" according to Author & FarmGirl Shelby Watson-Hampton Send a text

Farmers represent less than 2% of the US population.  Women farmers represent 35% of that 2%.  That’s quite  a small number of women farmers in the US.  Shelby Watson-Hampton grew up on a farm in Maryland. She describes the family farm as” a living, breathing entity of its own - the touchstone - the gathering place, the solid center of home for many”.   She later helped her family transition the land from a nursery to a vineyard and thriving agritourism business. Shelby’s book, "Grace, Grit & Lipstick",  was written for other women in farming, as a way to create the connections that we all need and desire. 

Shelby says it like it is. Through her book and our interview, I found Shelby to be extremely authentic and transparent in her messages. She is a smart, practical business woman who provides tremendous guidance for farm businesses looking to expand into agritourism or aspiring farmers looking to make that leap of faith into owning their own farm business. Her primary message was to NOT go it alone.  Keep connecting.  And to quote Shelby from her book: ” On our best days we find our joy. On our worst days we rage, mourn, and fall to our knees.  Then we get up, dust our knees and we get on gettin on.”  Enjoy my conversation with Author and Entrepreneur, Shelby Watson-Hampton.

Grace, Grit & Lipstick
The Farmed Life
Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards Wines

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Farmers represent less than 2% of the US population.  Women farmers represent 35% of that 2%.  That’s quite  a small number of women farmers in the US.  Shelby Watson-Hampton grew up on a farm in Maryland. She describes the family farm as” a living, breathing entity of its own - the touchstone - the gathering place, the solid center of home for many”.   She later helped her family transition the land from a nursery to a vineyard and thriving agritourism business. Shelby’s book, "Grace, Grit & Lipstick",  was written for other women in farming, as a way to create the connections that we all need and desire. 

Shelby says it like it is. Through her book and our interview, I found Shelby to be extremely authentic and transparent in her messages. She is a smart, practical business woman who provides tremendous guidance for farm businesses looking to expand into agritourism or aspiring farmers looking to make that leap of faith into owning their own farm business. Her primary message was to NOT go it alone.  Keep connecting.  And to quote Shelby from her book: ” On our best days we find our joy. On our worst days we rage, mourn, and fall to our knees.  Then we get up, dust our knees and we get on gettin on.”  Enjoy my conversation with Author and Entrepreneur, Shelby Watson-Hampton.

Grace, Grit & Lipstick
The Farmed Life
Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards Wines

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Shelby Watson-Hampton Buzzsprout-15042523 Mon, 20 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2171 agritourism, agritourist, vineyard, wine, agtitour, agri-tourist, agriculture, farming, farmlife, farm 1 4 full false Getting to Know Your Agri-Tourist Podcast Host, Jennifer Ross Getting to Know Your Agri-Tourist Podcast Host, Jennifer Ross Send a text

My journey back to agriculture and farming began when I started my podcast interviews a few months ago.  I am an accounting major turned marketer.  I transitioned from a 14-year career in corporate america to owning a small marketing consulting business for over 18 years, all while raising three kids. I owned a vegetable and sunflower farm for a few years in between - the one part of my career and life that grounded and connected me more than anything else.

My youngest is graduating in 2025 and I am looking to make a move back to agriculture.  When, where, how, and what I will be doing are all questions that I’m in the process of answering.  And this Agri-Tourist podcast is a platform for me to figure it all out.  When I am making any type of career or life transition, I reach out and engage with people in and around the industry I am interested in.  I engage in real conversation and learn as much as I can.  So, instead of me having these compelling conversations behind the scenes, I am putting these conversations out there for others to learn from, to be inspired by, or to just learn about a cool destination to travel to and experience.

In this episode, my long time friend and coworker, Marisa Pizza, is interviewing me about my life and career so we can assess where my thoughts and feelings are at the beginning of this journey.  It will be interesting to follow up in a few months to see how those thoughts and feelings have evolved. Join Marisa and I for a fun, open, and honest conversation about life, passion, leadership, community, health, food, and our environment.     

HeartBeet Farms

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

My journey back to agriculture and farming began when I started my podcast interviews a few months ago.  I am an accounting major turned marketer.  I transitioned from a 14-year career in corporate america to owning a small marketing consulting business for over 18 years, all while raising three kids. I owned a vegetable and sunflower farm for a few years in between - the one part of my career and life that grounded and connected me more than anything else.

My youngest is graduating in 2025 and I am looking to make a move back to agriculture.  When, where, how, and what I will be doing are all questions that I’m in the process of answering.  And this Agri-Tourist podcast is a platform for me to figure it all out.  When I am making any type of career or life transition, I reach out and engage with people in and around the industry I am interested in.  I engage in real conversation and learn as much as I can.  So, instead of me having these compelling conversations behind the scenes, I am putting these conversations out there for others to learn from, to be inspired by, or to just learn about a cool destination to travel to and experience.

In this episode, my long time friend and coworker, Marisa Pizza, is interviewing me about my life and career so we can assess where my thoughts and feelings are at the beginning of this journey.  It will be interesting to follow up in a few months to see how those thoughts and feelings have evolved. Join Marisa and I for a fun, open, and honest conversation about life, passion, leadership, community, health, food, and our environment.     

HeartBeet Farms

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross/Marisa Pizza Buzzsprout-15055648 Mon, 13 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2946 agritourist, agritourism, agri-tourist, agritour, agriculture, organic, organic farming, farming, farm, vegetables, plantbased, plant-based 1 3 full false A Plant-Based Visit to Florida with Emma & John Hoel of Peacefield Farm Sanctuary A Plant-Based Visit to Florida with Emma & John Hoel of Peacefield Farm Sanctuary Send a text

Emma & John Hoel own Peacefield Farm Sanctuary in Gainesville, Florida, just going on 5 years now. Before selling their house and moving from city life in Minneapolis, they took the time to volunteer at a local farm sanctuary to ensure that this is something they really wanted to commit to, as owning a farm sanctuary or any type of animal rescue is an every day, all hours of the day commitment.  The answer was a definitive YES for both of them and they set out to find the perfect property in a warmer climate!  They discovered a beautiful 30-acre property close to the University of Florida with a unique setting for farm animals and tourists alike including natural blue hole springs.

There is a more significant underlying mission that these beautiful farm animals are just a part of. That mission is to create awareness around where our food is coming from, how it is being produced, and encouraging people to enjoy a more plant-based lifestyle.  This is what will ultimately save the lives of these beautiful animals.  Farm sanctuaries represent a small percentage of the lives saved. Emma & John want people to understand that every one of us can save a farm animal’s life without having to own a farm sanctuary.  We just have to modify how and what we consume each and every day.  That’s all it takes. 

Peacefield Farm hosts visitors at their Airbnb and also hosts sanctuary tours, plant-based cooking classes, and yoga classes.. Join me now to hear more about Emma & John’s compelling and truly inspirational story….

Peacefield Farm Sanctuary
Airbnb at Peacefield
Events at Peacefield
Volunteer at Peacefield

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Emma & John Hoel own Peacefield Farm Sanctuary in Gainesville, Florida, just going on 5 years now. Before selling their house and moving from city life in Minneapolis, they took the time to volunteer at a local farm sanctuary to ensure that this is something they really wanted to commit to, as owning a farm sanctuary or any type of animal rescue is an every day, all hours of the day commitment.  The answer was a definitive YES for both of them and they set out to find the perfect property in a warmer climate!  They discovered a beautiful 30-acre property close to the University of Florida with a unique setting for farm animals and tourists alike including natural blue hole springs.

There is a more significant underlying mission that these beautiful farm animals are just a part of. That mission is to create awareness around where our food is coming from, how it is being produced, and encouraging people to enjoy a more plant-based lifestyle.  This is what will ultimately save the lives of these beautiful animals.  Farm sanctuaries represent a small percentage of the lives saved. Emma & John want people to understand that every one of us can save a farm animal’s life without having to own a farm sanctuary.  We just have to modify how and what we consume each and every day.  That’s all it takes. 

Peacefield Farm hosts visitors at their Airbnb and also hosts sanctuary tours, plant-based cooking classes, and yoga classes.. Join me now to hear more about Emma & John’s compelling and truly inspirational story….

Peacefield Farm Sanctuary
Airbnb at Peacefield
Events at Peacefield
Volunteer at Peacefield

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Jennifer Ross Buzzsprout-14977796 Mon, 06 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3459 1 2 full false A Chocolate & Coffee Agri-Tour Adventure with Moka Origins CEO Jeff Abella A Chocolate & Coffee Agri-Tour Adventure with Moka Origins CEO Jeff Abella Send a text

Taste the Moka Origins lemon ginger chocolate bar and you'll experience real chocolate for the first time.  On this episode of The Agri-Tourist, meet social entrepreneur Jeff Abella, Co-Founder and CEO of Moka Origins.  Learn how his vision for the company was born in Cameroon, Africa and how it has evolved into the growing, socially responsible company it is today.

Moka Origins handcrafts chocolate from cacao beans to the finished chocolate bar. They also carefully roast their coffee to bring out delicious flavors from around the world. But this company, out of Honesdale, Pennsylvania, is much more than a craft chocolate and coffee company.  The Moka Origins team is a global family working to transform lives by promoting innovative farming techniques while giving their farmers opportunities to create a sustainable livelihood. Their vision is for coffee and chocolate to empower communities around the world to survive and thrive. In addition to visiting their chocolate factory in Pennsylvania, you can also learn about chocolate and coffee through their incredible immersive agritourism adventures to Costa Rica, Uganda, and Mexico. On these trips you will connect with Moka’s global cacao and coffee sourcing partners, experience fair trade in action, and discover indigenous cultures, cuisines and epic landscapes, all while learning and volunteering. 

Moka Origins
Moka Origin Adventures
About Jeff Abella , CEO & Co-Founder Moka Origins
Visit the Chocolate Factory in Honesdale, PA 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Send a text

Taste the Moka Origins lemon ginger chocolate bar and you'll experience real chocolate for the first time.  On this episode of The Agri-Tourist, meet social entrepreneur Jeff Abella, Co-Founder and CEO of Moka Origins.  Learn how his vision for the company was born in Cameroon, Africa and how it has evolved into the growing, socially responsible company it is today.

Moka Origins handcrafts chocolate from cacao beans to the finished chocolate bar. They also carefully roast their coffee to bring out delicious flavors from around the world. But this company, out of Honesdale, Pennsylvania, is much more than a craft chocolate and coffee company.  The Moka Origins team is a global family working to transform lives by promoting innovative farming techniques while giving their farmers opportunities to create a sustainable livelihood. Their vision is for coffee and chocolate to empower communities around the world to survive and thrive. In addition to visiting their chocolate factory in Pennsylvania, you can also learn about chocolate and coffee through their incredible immersive agritourism adventures to Costa Rica, Uganda, and Mexico. On these trips you will connect with Moka’s global cacao and coffee sourcing partners, experience fair trade in action, and discover indigenous cultures, cuisines and epic landscapes, all while learning and volunteering. 

Moka Origins
Moka Origin Adventures
About Jeff Abella , CEO & Co-Founder Moka Origins
Visit the Chocolate Factory in Honesdale, PA 

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

]]> Buzzsprout-14964429 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 20:00:00 -0400 3437 1 1 full false