Episodes

  • New Magnolia Homestead

    New Magnolia Homestead
    Jun 11 2026
    In Episode 22 of Local AG, host Dorothy interviews Tim and Jenny, co-owners of New Magnolia Homestead in Thaxton, Virginia. Guided by "Faith, Family, Farm," their 12-acre homestead serves as a therapeutic foster care farm, where children heal through animal care and farm routines. Tim and Jenny raise heritage breeds, including rare Meishan hogs and Katahdin sheep, and operate a farm shop offering meats and handcrafted products. They also serve as international missionaries, supporting agricultural sustainability at deaf schools worldwide. Their mission centers on breaking cycles of trauma and poverty, both locally and globally.
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    39 mins
  • Count Your Blessings Farm

    Count Your Blessings Farm
    May 14 2026
    In this episode of Local AG, host Melody interviews Aven, owner of Count Your Blessings Farm in Bedford County. Aven shares her journey from suburban life to raising registered dairy goats, pasture-raised hogs, and Angus cattle. She discusses goat breeds, kidding season, and crafting goat milk soaps, lotions, and tallow-based products. Aven also opens up about the farm's meaningful name, inspired by her daughter's rare genetic condition. The episode concludes with Bedford County Fair superintendent Mackenzie previewing the upcoming August fair, highlighting livestock shows, community events, and free family-friendly activities.
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    37 mins
  • Great Day Gardens

    Great Day Gardens
    Apr 16 2026
    In this episode of Local AG, host Dorothy interviews Arden, owner of Great Day Gardens in Bedford County. Arden shares her farm's two-generation family history and her "beyond organic" philosophy, emphasizing hands-on, chemical-free practices and crop diversity. She discusses leading an all-female crew, empowering women in agriculture, and the benefits of seasonal eating. Arden also highlights her involvement in the Blue Ridge Farmer Collective and upcoming events, including a farm tour, a Mother's Day plant sale, and new farmers market locations all reflecting her dedication to sustainable farming and community education.
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    24 mins
  • Supporting Bedford County’s Future: Scholarships, Livestock Shows, and Local Events You Can’t Miss

    Supporting Bedford County’s Future: Scholarships, Livestock Shows, and Local Events You Can’t Miss
    Apr 9 2026
    In this episode of the Local AG Podcast, host Melody Divers highlights key Bedford County agricultural events. Scott Baker discusses the Central Virginia Livestock Show, a 40-year tradition uniting 4-H and FFA youth from five counties to develop life skills through livestock care and exhibition. Carolyn Fellers introduces the Ken Palmer Memorial Scholarship, offering $500–$1,000 to Bedford County students aged 14–19 for college or trade school, with applications due April 30th. The episode also previews the Bedford County Fair, scheduled for August 21–23, and promotes upcoming local events including the Tulip Festival and Burgers and Bluegrass.
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    35 mins
  • Huddleston Hog & Highland Homestead

    Huddleston Hog & Highland Homestead
    Feb 12 2026
    In this episode of Local Ag, host Melody interviews Jasmine and Joey of Huddleston Hog and Highland Homestead. Jasmine and Joey recount the devastating January 2026 fire that destroyed their barn but spared their animals, thanks to their quick actions and community support. They discuss rebuilding efforts, their farm’s philosophy of “farming is therapy,” and upcoming events like Spring Farm Fun Day. The episode highlights their resilience, commitment to sustainable farming, and the strong, supportive spirit of Bedford County’s agricultural community.
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    33 mins
  • All Things Bedford County 4H and Extension Services

    All Things Bedford County 4H and Extension Services
    Dec 11 2025
    In the December 11th, 2025 episode of Local AG, host Melody sits down with Bedford County extension agents Scott and Kelsey to explore the wide range of services offered by the Virginia Cooperative Extension. The conversation covers the extension’s history and mission, showcases 4-H youth development opportunities, discusses current agricultural challenges in the region, and highlights community-focused initiatives such as food security programs. Upcoming events include a farm transition workshop and Master Gardener training. Overall, the episode underscores the extension’s essential role in supporting farmers, youth, and local residents promoting education, collaboration, and resilience throughout Bedford County. Listeners are invited to connect with the extension and get involved.
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    39 mins
  • IdleWild Farm

    IdleWild Farm
    Nov 6 2025
    In this episode of Local Ag, host Melody chats with Lucy and Doug from Idlewild Farm and Dorothy from the Forest Farmers Market about raising Thanksgiving turkeys in Bedford County, Virginia. They discuss Lucy and Doug’s farming journey, their pasture-raised turkey methods, challenges with predators, and the value of community connections. The episode also shares updates on local farmers markets, holiday events, and other farm products offering listeners a look into sustainable agriculture and how to support local food producers during the holiday season.
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    31 mins
  • Layman Family Farms

    Layman Family Farms
    Oct 9 2025
    In this episode of the Local Ag podcast, host Melody Divers chats with Eric Layman of Layman Family Farms an agritourism destination nestled between Lynchburg and Roanoke, Virginia. Eric discusses the farm’s history, its wide range of produce, and fan-favorite attractions like the corn maze and apple cider donuts. The conversation touches on the balance between farming and tourism, the importance of community connections, and exciting future plans, including the expansion of their tulip festival. Melody also spotlights local agricultural events and resources, encouraging listeners to support nearby farms and stay engaged through social media and upcoming community gatherings.
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    21 mins