Dairy Farming & Parenting in New York State with Dairy Gal Val

A huge thanks to Blooming Health Farms for sponsoring this episode. Make sure to check out their programs for introducing youth to agriculture below.

• https://www.bloominghealthfarms.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/BloomingHealthFarms/
• https://www.instagram.com/bloominghealthfarms
• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmaoyl_blQY6KhO5eGByCDg

In this engaging conversation, Val Lavigne shares her multifaceted life as a dairy farmer, mother, and podcaster. She discusses the challenges and joys of raising her children on a dairy farm, the transition to homeschooling, and her passion for educating others about dairy farming. Val also highlights the importance of fostering independence in her kids while ensuring their safety on the farm. The discussion touches on the realities of balancing work and family life, the significance of community, and the rewarding experiences that come with rural living.

Connect with Val Online

• https://thedairygalval.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/DairyGalVal
• https://open.spotify.com/show/0hy0wgwWcGyNax7s41DAtb?si=8331dcc6c0f44b76&nd=1&dlsi=17f55ec47e984fde

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Takeaways

• Val is a first-generation dairy farmer with a passion for education.
• She has transitioned to homeschooling her three children due to challenges in traditional schooling.
• Val emphasizes the importance of safety and independence for her kids on the farm.
• Her podcast, The Dairy Hour, focuses on sharing stories from rural women.
• Val's family runs a food truck and catering business alongside their dairy farm.
• She believes in fostering curiosity and passion in her children without forcing them into farming.
• Val's experience with dairy farming has shaped her understanding of hard work and resilience.
• She values the support of her family and community in her farming and parenting journey.
• Val's approach to parenting includes allowing her children to learn through experience.
• She encourages her kids to be involved in farm life while also pursuing their own interests.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Val Lavigne and Her Farm Life
• 03:34 Dairy Farming Insights and Challenges
• 11:58 Transitioning to Homeschooling
• 25:04 The Dairy Hour Podcast and Its Purpose
• 36:31 Parenting on the Farm: Balancing Work and Family
• 54:04 Fostering Independence and Safety in Kids
• 01:00:11 Cussing and Discussing: Parenting Challenges