Welcome to The Dairy Hour Podcast, where rural charm meets personal growth! Join us as we milk every moment for wisdom, self-improvement, and mental wellness. Farming is often more than just hard work—it’s a journey of resilience, personal growth, and constant challenges. In the latest episode of the Dairy Hour Podcast, Val Lavigne sits down with Lorilee Schultz, a dedicated dairy farmer from Orangeville, Illinois about overcoming challenges. Lorilee’s inspiring story takes us through her unexpected journey into agriculture, from non-farming roots to becoming the owner of her grandparents’ dairy farm.
In this episode of The Dairy Hour Podcast,
I’m your host, Val Lavigne, a rural dairy farming mom with a passion for filling hearts while never forgetting to fill my own cup. Get ready for insightful conversations, empowering tips, and a splash of fun and laughs, of course!
Posted on 11 Feb 2025 · 50 minutes
Watch Dairy Gal Val talk to her guest Lorilee Schultz about overcoming challenges
Overcoming Challenges in Farming & Family: Lorilee Schultz’s Inspiring Story
Farming is more than just hard work—it’s a journey filled with challenges, transitions, and moments of growth. In this episode of the Dairy Hour Podcast, host Val Lavigne (@DairyGalVal) sits down with Lorilee Schultz, a dedicated dairy farmer from Orangeville, Illinois, to discuss her unexpected path into agriculture, the realities of managing a family farm, and the importance of resilience in both farming and life.
From Non-Farming Roots to Dairy Farm Owner
Lorilee didn’t grow up in a farming family, but her passion for agriculture was sparked early on through Dairy Bowl contests and hands-on experiences with livestock. She took a leap of faith, pursued a double major in agriculture, and gained international experience through internships in China, which broadened her perspective on the industry.
After years of learning and working in various roles, Lorilee made the life-changing decision to take over her grandparents’ dairy farm. Managing the farm for 16 years has come with its share of obstacles, including the complexities of family transitions and the need to modernize farm operations with new technologies.
Navigating Family, Grief & Life’s Chaos
Beyond the physical demands of dairy farming, Lorilee and Val dive into the emotional challenges of caregiving, navigating grief, and balancing personal aspirations with the demands of farm life. Lorilee shares her insights on the importance of cherishing relationships, finding support systems, and embracing the chaos that comes with both farming and life.
Women in Agriculture: Breaking Barriers
A strong advocate for women in agriculture, Lorilee highlights the lack of female representation in leadership roles and the need to create more opportunities for farm women. Her journey serves as an inspiration for others striving to carve their own path in the industry.
Listen Now!
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Tune in now for an insightful and inspiring conversation on leadership, agriculture, and personal growth.
Don’t forget to subscribe to the Dairy Hour podcast and save on WonderCow Colostrum with code DAIRYGALVAL at shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL!
Let’s cultivate growth, nourish our minds, and embrace the journey together. This is the Dairy Hour Podcast – where every episode is a breath of fresh air and the inspiration you need to be your best self! If you love this podcast, please leave a review and share with a friend! To be considered as a guest on the show, please email Val or inquire on www.dairygalval.com.
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