066: Bernadette Boland of Fields of Athenry

Bernadette Boland shares her journey of starting Fields of Athenry Farm and Side Sattel Bistro in Virginia. The farm focuses on holistic farming practices, including rotational grazing and raising animals on pasture. Bernadette emphasizes the importance of healthy eating as a preventative measure for various illnesses. The farm offers a subscription model for meat boxes and meal delivery, providing convenient access to nutrient-dense foods. Bernadette discusses the challenges and successes of implementing the subscription model. She also highlights the importance of supporting local farmers and reconnecting with nature for mental health.

Takeaways

Holistic farming practices, such as rotational grazing and raising animals on pasture, contribute to healthier and more nutrient-rich food.

Healthy eating can be a powerful preventative measure for various illnesses and can support overall well-being.

Subscription models and meal delivery services can provide convenient access to nutrient-dense foods and support local farmers.

Supporting local farmers and reconnecting with nature can have positive impacts on mental health and well-being.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:31 Moving to Virginia and Starting the Farm

01:28 Early Farming Experiences

03:16 Journey of Learning and Growth

04:16 Expansion and Opening a Shop

05:08 Importance of Bone Broth

06:03 Gut Health and Nutrition

06:56 Supporting the Body's Health

07:51 Subscription Model and Meal Delivery

09:19 Meat Boxes and Subscription Success

11:16 Challenges of Implementing Subscription Model

13:43 Focus on Customer Retention

14:13 Impact of COVID-19 on the Business

16:25 Emphasis on Healthy Eating and Preventative Health

18:17 Importance of Supporting Local Farmers

19:43 The Disconnect from Nature and Mental Health

20:44 Subscription Process and Target Audience

23:25 Making Bone Broth and Its Benefits

27:06 Meal Options and Pop-Ups

28:32 Website and Social Media