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Rooted Agritourism — Home & Garden
Rooted Agritourism

Rooted Agritourism is the go-to podcast for rural entrepreneurs building diversified, sustainable, and story-driven farm businesses. Hosted by Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen—flower farmer, educator, and founder of Sunny Mary Meadow cut flower farm—this show goes beyond blooms to explore the full spectrum of agritourism and value-added agriculture.

Whether you’re launching a U-pick field, hosting farm events, bottling your own products, or dreaming up the next big rural business idea, you’ll find honest insights, real-world strategies, and a whole lot of encouragement here. Each episode blends personal experience, practical tools, and conversations with innovative ag-based business owners who are redefining what it means to grow on your own terms.

From marketing perishable products to navigating burnout, building memberships, and scaling farm income streams—Rooted Agritourism is your weekly companion for building a life and business deeply rooted in purpose, place, and profitability.

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Copyright: © Bloom & Grow LLC

Latest Episodes:

What 2025 Taught Me About Business, Burnout & Bravery Jan 05, 2026

Show notes

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 success.00:00 Introduction to Rotted Agritourism

00:19 Reflecting on 2025: Achievements and Challenges

02:28 Building a Thriving Business: The Journey

06:46 Overcoming Community Challenges

08:46 Exciting Plans for 2026

11:39 Upcoming Goals and Final Thoughts

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

Save $25 on your CoolBot: https://storeitcold.referralrock.com/lv1/6R543BWF/

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Revolutionizing the Floral Industry with 'Farmers to Florists' Dec 17, 2025

Show notes

Sign up for the webinar: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration-page-222a1dfe-fee7-469e-8156-8379cc388865

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 encouraged to join a live webinar on January 6th to see the platform in action and provide valuable feedback. The episode also mentions registration details, the goals of the platform, and how it aims to bring clarity and efficiency to the industry.

00:00 Welcome and Conference Invitation

00:50 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism

01:14 Exciting Industry Announcement

02:42 The Problem in the Floral Industry

07:18 The Solution: Farmers to Florist Platform

09:18 Features of Farmers to Florist

12:59 Call to Action: Join the Webinar

15:05 Conclusion and Additional Resources

Flowers Bloom Anyway: The Pre-Order of the Book is Available Now Dec 09, 2025

Show notes

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, motherhood, and resilience. Listeners are encouraged to pre-order the book through Barnes and Noble to support its launch and ensure wider availability. Dr. Liz also introduces the Bloom Crew, a community supporting the book's promotion. The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks to the community for their continuous support.

00:00 Introduction to Rotted Agritourism

00:24 Exciting News: Book Presale Announcement

00:50 The Journey of Writing the Book

03:08 The Role of Sunny Mary Meadow

05:25 Who the Book is For

06:57 The Importance of Pre-orders

08:05 Join the Bloom Crew

08:45 Conclusion and Gratitude

09:21 Support and Resources

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

Save $25 on your CoolBot: https://storeitcold.referralrock.com/lv1/6R543BWF/

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

What to Expect at Flower Farmer Forum 2026 Dec 01, 2025

Show notes

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 of this year's conference is the hands-on farm tours showcasing real systems in action. Attendees can also opt for an additional day focused on integrating wedding flowers into their businesses. Special discounts are available, and tickets can be purchased at Sunny Mary Meadow's website.

00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism

00:30 Welcome to the 2026 Flower Farmer Forum Conference

01:29 The Shift in the Flower Farming Industry

03:49 Conference Highlights and Key Speakers

05:38 Networking and Additional Opportunities

07:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Save $25 on your CoolBot: https://storeitcold.referralrock.com/lv1/6R543BWF/

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

The Bloom Room Blueprint: Turning a Flower Farm into a Community Hub Nov 24, 2025

Show notes

Save $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 for hosting various events, building strong community ties, and offering educational opportunities in agritourism.

00:00 Introduction to Sunny Mary Meadow

00:26 Tour of the New Farm Store and Event Space

01:49 Challenges and Regulations in Remodeling

03:12 Building the New Event Space

04:05 Permits and Legal Hurdles

08:00 Designing the Perfect Space

11:08 Flexible Event Hosting Options

13:25 The Bloom Room and Farm Store

21:19 Future Plans and Educational Opportunities

22:24 Conclusion and Thank You

Save $25 on your CoolBot: https://storeitcold.referralrock.com/lv1/6R543BWF/

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Crafting Cider and Experiences: The Milk and Honey Cider Agritourism Story Oct 27, 2025

Show notes

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. Peter recounts stories of unexpected business expansions, the importance of customer experience, and strategies for planning a master calendar of events. The episode emphasizes the significance of adaptability, community engagement, and the synergy between agricultural products and tourism.

00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism

00:23 Meet Peter Gillitzer, co-owner of Milk and Honey Cider in St. Joseph

00:55 Discussing Agritourism and Value-Added Products

01:18 The Evolution of Milk and Honey Cider

03:07 Challenges and Successes in Agritourism

04:38 Unexpected Popularity and Adaptations

09:32 Expanding Offerings and Community Engagement

12:33 Planning and Managing Events

16:35 Balancing Business and Lifestyle

18:29 Reaching Customers: Strategies and Challenges

21:18 Diversifying Events and Revenue Streams

24:21 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

28:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Flowers Bloom Anyway: Making the Fertilizer Framework Work for your Farm Oct 20, 2025

Show notes

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 husband, have shaped her business ethos. The episode also highlights her upcoming book, 'Flowers Bloom Anyway,' and details about the 2026 Flower Farmer Forum Conference aimed at fostering community and growth among flower farmers. Listeners are encouraged to focus on sustainable business practices and to join the waitlist for her book and the conference.

00:00 Introduction to Rotted Agritourism

00:19 A Different Episode: Solo Talk

01:04 The Fertilizer Framework

05:26 Personal Reflections and Growth

09:14 Upcoming Events and Opportunities

11:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Heidi Montag on Butter Heads, Farming Challenges, and Ag Advocacy Oct 06, 2025

Show notes

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.

00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism

00:19 Meet Heidi Montag

01:17 The Princess Kay Program

03:36 Life on a Dairy Farm

09:44 Butter Head Sculptures

12:04 Promoting Agriculture and Dairy

14:26 Heidi's Involvement in Agriculture

15:52 Joining FFA and Becoming a Dairy Princess

16:44 Passion for Politics and Agriculture

17:18 Family Farming Backgrounds

19:39 Challenges in Modern Farming

20:52 Farm Stand and Baking Ventures

21:39 Radio Segments and Public Speaking

22:41 Agritourism and Zoning Issues

25:38 Sustainability and Generational Farming

30:00 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Crafting Cider from the Ground Up: Milk and Honey Cider’s Agritourism Journey Sep 29, 2025

Show notes

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 Honey balances customer demand with their craft. The episode highlights the collaborative spirit within the local farming community and the importance of supporting local agritourism.

00:00 Introduction to Rotted Agritourism

00:19 Meet Peter Giler: Co-Owner of Milk and Honey Cider

01:37 Starting with Apples: The Journey Begins

02:31 Challenges and Trials in Apple Growing

04:57 Understanding Cider and Mead

10:47 The Economics of Apple Farming

18:50 Harvesting and Production Insights

19:56 Grading and Processing Apples

20:30 Cider Production Benefits

21:15 Collaborations and Diversification

22:58 Community and Competition

25:58 Cider Making Process

29:50 Balancing Production and Demand

32:45 Crafting Unique Ciders

37:32 Conclusion and Contact Information

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Farming with Purpose: Liz Fiedler Mergen’s Vision for Rural Business Growth Sep 22, 2025

Show notes

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 support plays in her entrepreneurial journey. The episode wraps up with Liz’s favorite and least favorite farm tasks, educational resources, and a teaser for a new tool set to revolutionize farming. Tune in to hear an inspiring story filled with passion, perseverance, and purposeful growth.

00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism

00:19 Meet the Hosts: Dr. Liz and Abbey

01:31 Liz's Agricultural Background

02:18 Life After College and Meeting Josh

05:41 Starting a Family and Farm Life

07:54 Deciding to Stay on the Family Farm

12:38 Building a Sustainable Flower Farm Business

19:13 Legal and Zoning Challenges for Farm Venues

21:06 Deciding to Build New: The Plan

22:05 Collaborating with Local Businesses

24:12 Creating a Multi-Use Space

25:31 Business Strategy and Market Gaps

32:52 Sustainable Flower Farming

33:41 Rapid Fire Questions

36:31 Conclusion and Future Plans

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

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