Rooted Agritourism

In this inspiring episode of Rooted Agritourism, host Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen shares the mic with publishing veterans and fellow authors during the Future Proof Author panel at Podfest 2026. Whether you're dreaming of writing your first book or looking to scale your author platform, this panel is packed with actionable advice on storytelling, publishing, platform-building, and book marketing for rural entrepreneurs and creative business owners.

Liz opens up about her personal journey—from flower farmer and podcast host to memoir author—and how grief, growth, and entrepreneurship collided to shape her book. Joined by experts from Morgan Jame...

Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow, delves into the core principles of crop planning for flower farms. Emphasizing alignment rather than control, she discusses scheduling bloom times to match sales needs. Liz shares insights from her own experiences, explaining how she uses succession planting and planning tools to optimize planting schedules and fulfill her varied event commitments. While promoting her crop planning platform Farmers to Florist, she insists the principles can be applied manually with notebooks or spreadsheets. Liz underscores the importance of early planning to make informed decisions and maximize the use of crops during...

In this episode of the Rooted Agritourism podcast, host Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen sits down with Dr. Mark Hicks of The Learning Love Foundation to discuss personal growth, healthy relationships, and the journey of becoming a published author. Dr. Hicks shares his experiences with love, divorce, and building a life that matters through his book, 'Learning Love Building the Life That Matters and Healthy Relationships That Last.' They dive into the importance of relationships in both personal and professional lives, especially for those in the agritourism industry. Dr. Hicks also talks about his background in mental health counseling...

In this episode of the Rooted Agritourism Podcast, Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow, discusses the upcoming Flower Farmer Forum Conference and shares a conversation with Ali from Anderbery Acres in Nebraska about how attending the Flower Farmer Forum conference impacted her flower farming journey. The episode highlights the importance of in-person connections, practical business advice, and learning through direct experiences. Dr. Liz and Ali also talk about pricing strategies, the value of attending live events, planned conference activities, and the diverse pathways to success in flower farming.

00:00 Introduction to Rotted Agritourism

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Pre-Order Flowers Bloom Anyway: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/flowers-bloom-anyway-a-memoir-liz-fiedler-mergen/1148638651?ean=9781636989273

In this episode of Rooted Agritourism, Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow in Central Minnesota, reflects on the highs and lows of 2025. She discusses setting measurable goals, navigating challenges, and enduring personal hardships, including infertility and community opposition to her business. Dr. Mergen provides insights into the grit required to build a thriving agritourism venture and announces exciting upcoming projects like the Farmers to Florist app and her soon-to-be-published book. She emphasizes the importance of slow, sustained effort and resilience in achieving long-term...

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In 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...

Pre-Order Flowers Bloom Anyway: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/flowers-bloom-anyway-a-memoir-liz-fiedler-mergen/1148638651?ean=9781636989273

In 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...

In 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...

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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...

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHVg-R6xh_0

Flowers Bloom Anyway Waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

In 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...

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHVg-R6xh_0

Flowers Bloom Anyway Waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

Dr. 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...

In 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.

In 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...

In 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...

In 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...

In 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...

Welcome to Rooted Agritourism: Embracing Growth and Diversification

In 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...

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In this episode, Liz discusses the upcoming rebranding of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast and dives into the concept of the cannibal business model, which occurs when business offers compete with each other, leading to burnout and inefficiency. She shares strategies for building a smart farm ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of crop planning, subscription services, and delegation. Liz invites listeners to join her upcoming webinar, where she will elaborate on these concepts and the future direction of her business.

Register for the Webinar: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration-page-eed11a8c-b87c-42f7-b405-7747a71eafa2

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the importance of creating a sustainable business ecosystem in flower farming. She emphasizes the power of dahlias as a versatile product that can be monetized through various channels, including education, event design, and content marketing. The conversation also explores the concept of 'One Product, Many Markets' and how farmers can apply this framework to diversify their offerings without increasing their workload. The episode concludes with a...

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In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the journey of building a flower farm business that thrives on sustainability and diversification. She emphasizes the importance of creating a smart farm ecosystem that not only focuses on selling flowers but also on building relationships with customers and exploring multiple revenue streams. The conversation highlights the lessons learned from past experiences, the significance of agritourism, and the need for a structured approach to business growth.

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In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the often-overlooked responsibilities of flower farmers, particularly in the context of agritourism. She emphasizes the role flower farmers play in shaping public perception of agriculture and the importance of educating visitors about the realities of farming. The conversation explores the spectrum of farming, the balance between small and large farms, and the civic role that flower farmers take on when they open their farms to the public. Liz encourages farmers to embrace their role as educators and to engage in meaningful conversations with their customers about the...

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum, host Liz discusses strategies for managing extra flowers in a flower farming business. She emphasizes the importance of long-term planning and pre-selling to avoid excess inventory. The episode provides creative solutions for moving flowers, such as partnering with local businesses, utilizing QR codes for audience building, and running giveaways. Liz also warns against discounting flowers, as it can attract bargain hunters and undermine the business's value. The conversation concludes with a reminder to focus on building a brand and audience while managing flower sales effectively.

Takeaways

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Workshops: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/workshops

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses her recent intermission from selling and growing flowers, the evolution of her online course into a community membership, and the importance of taking breaks to refocus on business foundations. She shares insights on automating email marketing, the upcoming pivot of the podcast to include agritourism and specialty crop farming, and the need for investment in growth to better serve the community.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz Fiedler Mergan discusses the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities, particularly in Stearns County, Minnesota and the Stearns County Comprehensive Plan for 2040 that has a focus on agriculture. She explores the balance between growth and preservation, the importance of supporting small farmers, and the role of agritourism and value-added agriculture in sustaining rural economies. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional growth that benefits both the agricultural sector and the community as a whole.

Takeaways

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.

Takeaways

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In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses how to care for locally grown flowers from the perspective of the customer. She emphasizes the unique qualities of these flowers, the importance of educating customers on their care, and sustainable practices in flower farming. The episode provides practical tips for prolonging the life of bouquets and highlights the significance of supporting local agriculture.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the 'Miracle on 34th Street' philosophy, emphasizing the importance of customer service and community support in the flower farming business. She shares personal anecdotes about her journey in the floral industry, the challenges of meeting customer needs, and the significance of maintaining integrity and generosity in business interactions. Liz also opens up about her recent personal struggles, including a miscarriage, and announces her upcoming book, 'Flowers Bloom Anyway,' which reflects on her experiences with grief and resilience.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz and guest Matt Diamante discuss essential marketing strategies for small businesses, focusing on social media and SMS marketing. They explore the importance of video content, the dynamics of going viral, and effective ways to build an SMS list. The conversation emphasizes the need for small business owners to adapt to changing marketing landscapes and engage their audiences meaningfully.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses the critical choice between chasing time or money in the context of flower farming. She shares her personal journey through the ups and downs of running a flower farm, emphasizing the importance of investing in systems and understanding the seasons of business. Liz highlights the challenges of growth, the necessity of organization, and the balance between working hard and maintaining sustainability. The conversation serves as a guide for farmers and entrepreneurs to navigate their own paths in business.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses her experiences and strategies for growing dahlias at her farm in Minnesota. She shares insights on simplifying planting techniques, improving soil conditions, and innovative methods for extending the blooming season. Liz emphasizes the importance of efficient farming practices and the benefits of community support among flower farmers.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the realities of flower farming when it isn't a full-time job. She shares her experiences balancing multiple revenue streams, the importance of flexibility in scheduling, and practical strategies for preparing for planting. Liz emphasizes the significance of adapting to weather conditions, maximizing limited time, and maintaining flower beds effectively. The conversation concludes with encouragement for flower farmers to embrace their journey and find systems that work for their unique situations.

Takeaways

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz and guest expert Mona Bavar discuss the intersection of smart marketing, authentic branding, and the use of AI strategies to enhance customer reach without sacrificing authenticity. They explore the importance of understanding one's brand story, the emotional connections that drive customer loyalty, and the role of AI in modern marketing. The conversation also touches on overcoming skepticism towards AI, effective content creation, and the value of workshops for entrepreneurs.

Takeaways

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In this episode, Liz wraps up the mini-series on finding your flower farm fit by discussing advanced revenue streams such as workshops, weddings, and selling to florists. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement through workshops, the complexities and profitability of wedding florals, and the nuances of building relationships with florists for consistent sales. Liz shares her personal experiences and insights on how to navigate these avenues effectively, ensuring a sustainable and profitable flower farming business.

Takeaways

Workshops can be profitable if you enjoy teaching.

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Webinar: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz delves into various business models for flower farming, including farm stands, subscriptions, cut flower garden kits, stem bars, U-Pick farms, and nursing home sponsorships. Each model is explored in terms of its benefits, challenges, and suitability for different types of flower farmers. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own business needs and community connections when choosing the right offerings.

Takeaways

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In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz introduces a new mini-series titled 'Find Your Flower Farm Fit.' The series aims to help aspiring flower farmers identify the best model for their unique circumstances, focusing on personal resources, market needs, and financial considerations. The first episode emphasizes the importance of assessing one's time, money, infrastructure, and community to create a sustainable flower farming business. Liz shares her own experiences and insights, encouraging listeners to evaluate their resources and align their offerings with...

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses effective strategies for marketing flowers to florists. She emphasizes the importance of understanding florist needs, pricing strategies, and building professional relationships. Key tips include selling in increments of ten, knowing market prices, and presenting flowers in a way that highlights their value. The conversation concludes with a reminder that successful marketing to florists is about creating partnerships that benefit both parties.

Takeaways

The Flower Farmer Forum podcast (formerly Sunny Mary Meadow podcast) is hosted by Liz Fiedler, a nurse practitioner turned flower farmer in central MN. Learn tips and tricks for growing and selling cut flowers. Located in Zone 4B, the shorter growing season offers some challenges. Her farm, Sunny Mary Meadow specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you pick flower farm experience.

Look for the bonus PPP episodes on running a cut flower farm and growing your business. The PPP stands for “peddling perishable products”, which is the signature course for her coaching business, www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com<...

Sign up here: www.farmerstoflorists.com

In this short but powerful episode, we’re talking about why florists need better options—and how YOU can be the one to provide them. Imported flowers dominate the market, but local blooms offer something truly special: unmatched freshness, sustainability, and heart.

If you're a flower farmer who grows beautiful, high-quality stems and is ready to connect with florists looking for something better, visit www.farmerstoflorists.com. This brand-new directory is designed to connect florists with farmers who value quality, consistency, and community.

Be part of the chan...

$30 Crop Planning Offer: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/8qKFeNxG

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the critical aspect of crop planning for flower farmers. She emphasizes the importance of understanding fixed and flexible offerings, managing bloom times, and the mathematical calculations necessary for successful crop planning. Liz also introduces her crop planning course, designed to help farmers streamline their processes and improve profitability.

Takeaways

Find Brandon online: https://seooptimizers.com/

In this episode, Liz discusses SEO optimization for small businesses with Brandon Leibowitz, founder of SEO Optimizers. They explore the importance of SEO for small business owners, particularly those in niche markets like flower farming. The conversation covers the basics of SEO, strategies for optimizing websites, the significance of content creation, and the role of video in enhancing online visibility. Brandon shares practical tips on keyword research, avoiding common pitfalls, and leveraging various platforms to drive traffic. The episode emphasizes the long-term benefits of SEO and the need for patience and...