Shows
Rooted Agritourism Revolutionizing the Floral Industry with 'Farmers to Florists'Sign up for the webinar: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration-page-222a1dfe-fee7-469e-8156-8379cc388865In this episode of the Rooted Agritourism Podcast, Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen invites listeners to the 2026 Flower Farmer Forum and introduces a groundbreaking tool for the floral industry — Farmers to Florists. Liz shares the significant challenges faced by flower farmers, florists, and farmer florists, such as planning, inventory management, and efficient communication. She unveils the Farmers to Florists platform designed to address these issues by integrating crop planning, inventory management, and floral recipes into one collaborative system. Listeners are en...
2025-12-1715 minRooted AgritourismFlowers Bloom Anyway: The Pre-Order of the Book is Available NowPre-Order Flowers Bloom Anyway: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/flowers-bloom-anyway-a-memoir-liz-fiedler-mergen/1148638651?ean=9781636989273In this episode of Rooted Agritourism, Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow, shares exciting news about her book 'Flowers Bloom Anyway,' now available for presale. She recounts the emotional journey of writing her memoir, from its origins as an angry journal following her husband's sudden death to its transformation into a hopeful narrative about rebuilding life amidst grief. The episode delves into the significance of her farm, Sunny Mary Meadow, in her healing process and highlights the book's broader themes of entrepreneurship...
2025-12-0910 minRooted AgritourismWhat to Expect at Flower Farmer Forum 2026In this episode of the Rooted Agritourism Podcast, host Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen from Sunny Mary Meadow announces the upcoming 2026 Flower Farmer Forum Conference. Scheduled for January 31st, 2026, at their farm in St. Joseph, Minnesota, the event will cover numerous topics pertinent to flower farming and agritourism. With industry shifts towards local sourcing driven by tariffs and supply chain issues, the conference aims to equip farmers with practical knowledge and networking opportunities. Key speakers from Ball Horticulture, CoolBot, Len Bush Roses, Compeer Financial, and Farmer's Union Agency will provide insights on various aspects of flower farming. A unique feature...
2025-12-0108 minRooted AgritourismThe Bloom Room Blueprint: Turning a Flower Farm into a Community HubSave $25 on your CoolBot: https://storeitcold.referralrock.com/lv1/6R543BWF/Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow in Central Minnesota, shares the journey of transforming her flower farm into a multipurpose event venue and farm store. Through a detailed walkthrough, she explains the architectural, legal, and financial challenges she faced and overcame to build 'The Bloom Room' and 'The Farmacy'. She discusses Minnesota's building codes, the need for sustainable infrastructure, and how the new space boosts flower sales and supports agritourism, rural entrepreneurship, and value-added agriculture. The episode highlights the venue's flexibility...
2025-11-2423 minRooted AgritourismCrafting Cider and Experiences: The Milk and Honey Cider Agritourism StoryFlower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHVg-R6xh_0Flowers Bloom Anyway Waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/authorIn this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' hosted by Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow, guest Peter Gillitzer, co-owner of Milk and Honey Cider in St. Joseph shares insights into their growth from a small-scale cider producer to a thriving agritourism hub. The discussion touches on the evolution of their business, the importance of offering value-added experiences, such as their tasting room and community events like trivia nights and music series...
2025-10-2730 minRooted AgritourismFlowers Bloom Anyway: Making the Fertilizer Framework Work for your FarmFlower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHVg-R6xh_0Flowers Bloom Anyway Waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/authorDr. Liz Fiedler Mergen of Sunny Mary Meadow in Central Minnesota presents a solo episode focused on her 'Fertilizer Framework,' a concept that emphasizes growth through interconnected and symbiotic business elements. Liz discusses the non-linear progression and deep integration of services in her agritourism business, which includes a flower farm, retail shop, workshops, and speaking engagements. She shares insights from her journey, reflecting on how personal experiences, particularly the loss of her first...
2025-10-2013 minRooted AgritourismHeidi Montag on Butter Heads, Farming Challenges, and Ag AdvocacyIn this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen interviews Heidi Montag, a finalist in the Princess Kay of the Milky Way program in Minnesota. They discuss Heidi's background in dairy farming, her experience in the Princess Kay program, and the unique journey of having her head carved in butter. Heidi shares her passion for promoting agriculture through social media, her involvement in multiple agricultural boards, and the challenges faced by modern dairy farmers. The conversation provides insight into the life of a young woman dedicated to both her family's dairy operation and broader agricultural advocacy.
2025-10-0631 minRooted AgritourismCrafting Cider from the Ground Up: Milk and Honey Cider’s Agritourism JourneyIn this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen from Sunny Mary Meadow interviews Peter Gillitzer, co-owner of Milk and Honey Cider in St. Joseph, Minnesota. The conversation explores the journey of Milk and Honey Cider, from the challenges of growing cider-specific apple varieties to turning those apples into craft cider. Peter shares insights into the agronomic and economic aspects of apple farming, addressing topics like grafting, soil requirements, pest management, pruning, and the importance of understanding one's strengths in farming. The discussion extends to the cider-making process, including fermenting, aging, blending, and addressing how Milk and...
2025-09-2939 min
The Heart of Rural AmericaHow to Build an Agritourism Business and Fight to Protect it with Liz Fiedler MergenIn this episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, host Amanda Radke interviews Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, a lifelong friend and agritourism entrepreneur. Liz shares her journey from growing up on a beef farm, pursuing a career in nursing, to eventually purchasing a family farm and starting a successful flower farming business. She discusses the challenges she faced, including the sudden death of her husband and becoming a single mother. Liz also delves into her battles with local government officials to protect and grow her agritourism business, providing valuable insights for aspiring farmers. The episode highlights...
2025-09-2437 minRooted AgritourismFarming with Purpose: Liz Fiedler Mergen’s Vision for Rural Business GrowthIn this insightful episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, the owner of Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm in Central Minnesota, shares her unique journey from a nursing career to becoming a successful flower farmer and rural entrepreneur. Joined by podcast producer Abbey as the guest host, Liz delves into her agricultural upbringing, the evolution of her business Sunny Mary Meadow, challenges in agritourism, and her vision to create sustainable income streams. The conversation covers the logistical and emotional facets involved in building a reputable flower farm, the implementation of agritourism strategies, and the significant role community...
2025-09-2237 minRooted AgritourismClub Calves, Cattle Auctions & Agritourism: A Conversation with JT WeberIn this episode of the Rooted Agritourism Podcast, host Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen speaks with her father, JT Weber, about their experiences in value-added agriculture and the beef industry. They discuss the evolution of their family business, from dairy farming to focusing on elite genetics in Angus and Sim Angus cattle. JT shares insights on the intricacies of raising club calves for show, the importance of muscle, skeletal width, and other attributes in cattle, and his journey from South Dakota State University to becoming a successful cattle buyer and auctioneer. They also touch on topics such as the impact...
2025-09-1533 min
Rooted AgritourismFrom Seed to Sourdough with Jenny Bredeken of Full Circle FarmIn this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' host Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen speaks with Jenny Bredeken from Full Circle Farm. They discuss Jenny's entrepreneurial journey from Minnesota to Honolulu, exploring her passion for fermentation and sourdough bread that led to the creation of their farm and micro bakery. Jenny shares her experiences in reconnecting people with the origins of their food, the challenges of farming, and transitioning to wholesale markets. They also delve into the support of family legacy and the importance of local, fresh products. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about agritourism, rural entrepreneurship, and the power...
2025-09-0842 min
Rooted AgritourismRooted Agritourism TrailerWelcome to Rooted Agritourism: Embracing Growth and DiversificationIn this episode, Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow, introduces the rebranded podcast, Rooted Agritourism, previously known as the Flower Farmer Forum Podcast. Liz explains the motivation behind the name change, emphasizing the podcast's broader mission to include value-added agriculture and rural entrepreneurship. She discusses the importance of diversification in modern farming, particularly in Stearns County, Minnesota, and the role agritourism plays in sustainable income generation. Listeners can expect new episode formats, guest interviews, personal growth topics, and updates on practical resources for their agri-businesses. Liz...
2025-09-0109 min
Spark DirectoryFinding God in Our Pain - Widowhood is Not Your Final Chapter, with Liz Fiedler MergenPODCAST INTRO:
I enjoyed my time with guest, Liz Fiedler Mergen. She’s a remarried widow, mother of 2 daughters and has a multi-layered business strategy that encompasses several businesses. To me, it is all rooted and balanced with her fearless entrepreneurial creativity.
Liz and I agree that grief changes you in countless ways and as much as we may want things to go back to the way they were, they never will. How can they? We’ve lost a significant portion of our life.
Liz and her first husband, Ryan met when she was 22, fell...
2025-07-0259 minFinding God in Our PainWidowhood is Not Your Final Chapter, with Liz Fiedler MergenPODCAST INTRO:
I enjoyed my time with guest, Liz Fiedler Mergen. She’s a remarried widow, mother of 2 daughters and has a multi-layered business strategy that encompasses several businesses. To me, it is all rooted and balanced with her fearless entrepreneurial creativity.
Liz and I agree that grief changes you in countless ways and as much as we may want things to go back to the way they were, they never will. How can they? We’ve lost a significant portion of our life.
Liz and her first husband, Ryan met when she was 22, fell...
2025-07-0259 minRooted AgritourismHow to Best Explain the Benefits of Locally Grown Flowers to Others [REPLAY EPISODE]In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz Fiedler Mergen discusses the numerous benefits of locally grown flowers, emphasizing the importance of having a well-prepared elevator pitch to advocate for local blooms. She highlights the unique qualities of local flowers, including their freshness, sustainability, and support for the local economy. Liz also introduces a new resource, FarmersToFlorist.com, aimed at fostering collaboration between flower farmers and florists.TakeawaysLocally grown flowers offer unmatched quality and freshness.Having an elevator pitch is crucial for advocating local flowers.Local flowers support the local economy and...
2025-06-3015 min
The Infinite Life: Consciousness Raising, Spiritual TransformationTransforming sorrow into passion with Flower Farmer Liz Fiedler Mergen. S13. Ep13.Send us a textKatische Haberfield interviews Liz Fiedler Mergen, a remarried widow, former nurse practitioner, and thriving flower farmer from Minnesota. Liz shares her transformative journey of resilience and reinvention, detailing how she turned a family farm into Sunny Mary Meadow, a successful flower farm and business. The episode touches on topics such as grief, entrepreneurship, and the logistical and emotional challenges faced while balancing a new marriage, raising children, and running multiple businesses. Liz also discusses her plans for expanding her business to include a community-focused event space and shares insights from her forthcoming mem...
2025-05-161h 02
Pod to ProfitConcept Corner: How to Start and Monetize a Podcast About CoffeeIn this episode, hosts Liz Fiedler Mergen and Abbey Graves introduce a new series called Concept Corner Collective, where they brainstorm podcast ideas. They focus on the concept of a coffee podcast, discussing its premise, potential audience, recurrent segments, episode topics, monetization strategies, and community engagement. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creativity and consistency in podcasting, while also addressing challenges and opportunities in the coffee niche.TakeawaysThe Concept Corner Collective aims to brainstorm podcast ideas monthly.A coffee podcast could explore coffee culture, brewing techniques, and trends.Recurrent segments can enhance listener engagement and...
2025-03-1919 minRooted AgritourismBranding Your Flower Farm: The Role of Authentic StorytellingReme's website: https://www.rememancera.com/story-connectors-1on1/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY5FvFboY6RqUIx3wsxSoGScfBr0YwbjH9DfjhUwbCiRzHKcmJ1R7Nzx-Y_aem_PUKn4Bv6QKREx_WEB6k3DwIn this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz Fiedler Mergen speaks with personal branding strategist Reme Mancera about the significance of storytelling in building a personal brand. They discuss how to find unique stories, the importance of authenticity and transparency in marketing, and strategies for connecting with audiences. Reme emphasizes that everyone has stories to share, even if they don't seem epic, and that repetition and structure can...
2025-03-1726 min
Behind The Brand"Happy Dammit": Making Bold Branding Choices with Liz Fiedler Mergen of Sunny Mary MeadowIn this conversation, Liz Fiedler Mergen shares her inspiring journey from a hobby flower stand to a thriving business, Sunny Mary Meadow. The discussion highlights the importance of bold moves in entrepreneurship, the transformative power of rebranding, and the clarity it brings to business owners. Liz reflects on her personal experiences, including the challenges she faced after losing her husband, and how her flower business became a source of purpose and connection. The conversation also explores her future plans for expanding her business, including a farm store and event space, emphasizing the importance of branding and marketing in achieving...
2025-03-0527 minRooted AgritourismHow to Best Explain the Benefits of Locally Grown Flowers to OthersIn this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz Fiedler Mergen discusses the numerous benefits of locally grown flowers, emphasizing the importance of having a well-prepared elevator pitch to advocate for local blooms. She highlights the unique qualities of local flowers, including their freshness, sustainability, and support for the local economy. Liz also introduces a new resource, FarmersToFlorist.com, aimed at fostering collaboration between flower farmers and florists.TakeawaysLocally grown flowers offer unmatched quality and freshness.Having an elevator pitch is crucial for advocating local flowers.Local flowers support the local economy and...
2024-12-2319 min
The Love Story PodcastFinding Love After Loss with Liz Fiedler Mergen and Brent MergenIn this heartfelt conversation, Liz and Brent Mergen share their unique love story, navigating the complexities of love, loss, and new beginnings. Liz reflects on her past with her late husband, Josh, and how her friendship with Brent evolved into a deep connection. They discuss the challenges of blending families, the importance of support from loved ones, and the significance of legal matters in their relationship. Their journey highlights the infinite nature of love and the beauty of finding companionship after loss.TakeawaysLiz shares her journey of love and loss. Brent was a friend of...
2024-10-0149 minThe Love Story PodcastNavigating Love, Loss, and New Beginnings with Liz Fiedler MergenIn this episode of the Love Story Podcast, Liz shares her love story with her first husband Josh who passed away. They met at a happy hour and quickly fell in love. They got married and started a flower farm together on Josh's century family farm in St. Joseph. Liz also pursued her education and became a nurse practitioner. They prioritized their goals and enjoyed taking trips together. They sought couples therapy to navigate their roles and responsibilities. Unfortunately, Josh passed away from a heart attack, but Liz cherishes the time they had together. Liz reflects on her experience...
2024-09-2448 minRooted AgritourismHow to Label and Store DahliasGet the Free Guide: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/free-downloads-resources-1In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz Fiedler-Mergen discusses the essential practices for labeling and storing dahlias in the fall. She emphasizes the importance of proper labeling to ensure the identification of different varieties, especially before the frost hits. Liz shares her techniques for storing dahlias, including the best materials to use and the ideal conditions for storage. She also highlights the significance of selecting the right dahlia varieties for both personal enjoyment and business needs, providing insights into her own experiences and plans...
2024-09-1621 min