Pull Up a Bale with Mary Faber: From Corporate Work to Virtual Bookkeeping Success

In this inspiring episode of Pull Up a Bale, host Val Lavigne (@DairyGalVal) sits down with Mary Faber, a virtual bookkeeper for rural entrepreneurs. Mary shares her journey from the fast-paced world of corporate work to rural entrepreneur, building her own successful business that supports small-town and agricultural clients across the country.

Pull Up a Bale Podcast is hosted by dairy farmer, homeschooling mom, and agvocate Val Lavigne. This podcast invites farmers, ranchers, educators, and everyday rural changemakers to pull up a bale and share what’s really going on, the challenges, the purpose, the grit, and the heart behind the work. From legacy and leadership to motherhood, mental health, and the power of storytelling, this show is a seat at the table for voices that often go unheard — and it’s all about building community through conversation.
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Posted November 12, 2025 · 54 minutes

Watch Dairy Gal Val Pull Up a Bale with Mary Faber and talk about her change from Corporate Work to Rural Entrepreneur

From Corporate Work to Rural Entrepreneur, Pull Up a Bale with Mary Faber

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum — shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$!

In this inspiring episode of Pull Up a Bale, host Val Lavigne (@DairyGalVal) sits down with Mary Faber, a virtual bookkeeper for rural entrepreneurs. Mary shares her journey from the fast-paced world of corporate work to building her own successful business that supports small-town and agricultural clients across the country.

 Listen now at: www.pullupabale.com

From Corporate Career to Rural Entrepreneurship

When the world shifted during COVID, Mary Faber decided it was time for a new chapter. Trading in her corporate job for flexibility and purpose, she launched her own virtual bookkeeping business — and never looked back. Working from home, she discovered her passion for helping rural business owners and ag entrepreneurs take control of their finances.

“I fell in love with working from home,” Mary shares. “It gave me the freedom to serve the people who inspire me most — those in agriculture and rural America.”

Lessons from the Show Ring and Beyond

Growing up showing cattle taught Mary lessons she carries into business every day — discipline, resilience, and a love of community. She believes that success doesn’t happen by chance, but by putting in the work, staying consistent, and surrounding yourself with people who lift you up.

Her story is a reminder that whether you’re on the farm or behind a desk, perseverance and connection are key to long-term success.

Balancing Family, Work, and Growth

Mary and Val also discuss the challenges of balancing family life with entrepreneurship. From managing clients to making time for kids’ activities, Mary is open about the learning curve and importance of setting boundaries.

She’s not only running a business — she’s teaching others, offering QuickBooks training to empower more rural entrepreneurs to thrive.

Episode Highlights

• Transitioning from corporate life to self-employment
• Building a virtual bookkeeping business during the pandemic
• Applying lessons from showing cattle to real-world entrepreneurship
• Finding work-life balance as a rural business owner
• The power of community, connection, and consistency
• Inspiring advice for those starting their own journey

Connect with Mary Faber

 www.marytfaber.com
 Instagram: @MaryTFaber
 Facebook: Mary T Faber Solutions

 Sound Bites:

“I learned it the hard way.”
“Success doesn’t happen by chance.”

Tune in to hear how Mary turned risk into reward and built a career that aligns with her values and love for agriculture.

 Listen now on Pull Up a Bale with Val Lavigne (@DairyGalVal) — the podcast where we celebrate the grit, grace, and growth of rural life.

 Listen now at www.pullupabale.com or wherever you get your podcasts and don’t forget to subscribe and share with a friend who loves agriculture stories!

Whether you’re in the barn, in the cab, or taking a break between chores, you’ll feel right at home.

 Want to start sharing your own ag story? Visit dairygalval.com join the email list and grab Val’s free download: “Top 10 Ideas for Sharing Your Story.”

Check out other episodes for more inspiring people and stories in Agriculture!