Discovering Agriculture, Dairy Farming and Homeschooling with Tara Vander Dussen

This episode is brought to you by our partner, ChopLocal University

About ChopLocal and ChopLocal University

Meat buyers want convenience and variety, and meat farms need a better way to market their products. That's where ChopLocal comes in.

Founded by farmers, ChopLocal features high quality products from butcher shops and meat farms near you. They are dedicated to building a more resilient supply chain for meat that benefits everyone involved, and we're certain you'll be able to taste the difference!

Want to learn more about selling on ChopLocal as a producer? Visit their website below!

• https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/ (Education For Producers)
• https://choplocal.com/ (Sell or Buy on ChopLocal)

In this conversation, Tara Vander Dussen shares her experiences living on a farm in New Mexico, discussing the challenges and joys of farming, raising children, and running a podcast focused on agriculture. The discussion covers various topics, including dairy farming practices, environmental regulations, the impact of misinformation in agriculture, and the importance of the human connection between farmers and regulators. Tara emphasizes the need for education and understanding in the agricultural community, particularly in navigating the complexities of modern farming and environmental science. In this engaging conversation, Tara discusses the evolving mindset of Gen Z and their critical approach to understanding agriculture and food sourcing. She emphasizes the importance of transparency in farming, the role of AI as a beneficial tool, and the challenges of parenting, particularly in balancing work and family life. Tara shares her personal journey into homeschooling and the unique experiences of raising children on a farm, while also addressing common parenting struggles such as sleep issues. The discussion highlights the need for open communication and connection in both agriculture and parenting.

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Takeaways

• Tara lives on a farm in New Mexico, growing crops and raising two daughters.
• The weather in New Mexico has been unusually cool and rainy this summer.
• Tara has a background in environmental science and works in dairy farming.
• Dairy farming in New Mexico has large herd sizes compared to other states.
• Cows handle hot and dry conditions better than cold and damp.
• Tara's family operates a dairy farm with primarily Holstein cows.
• The Discover Ag podcast covers agriculture with a blend of entertainment and education.
• Misinformation in agriculture is prevalent, especially on social media.
• Tara emphasizes the importance of human connection between farmers and regulators.
• The podcast aims to provide factual information and multiple viewpoints on agricultural issues. Gen Z is more critical and questioning of norms.
• Understanding where food comes from is essential.
• Farmers must be open to answering questions.
• AI in agriculture can be beneficial if understood.
• Parenting involves navigating various challenges and changes.
• Homeschooling offers flexibility and unique experiences for children.
• Raising kids on a farm provides tangible connections to agriculture.
• Communication is key in bridging gaps between farmers and consumers.
• Parenting struggles are universal and often shared.
• Every phase of parenting is temporary and will pass.