From Farm Girl to Dairy Leader: Rebecca Pfeffer on Career Growth and Community

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$   Title:  From Farm Girl to Dairy Leader: Rebecca Pfeffer on Career Growth and Community   Host: Val Lavigne @DairyGalVal www.dairygalval.com   Guest: Rebecca (Bec) Shaw Pfeffer Instagram: @bec.pfeff and @cowgirltalk LinkedIn: @Rebecca Shaw Pfeffer   summary In this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne speaks with Rebecca (Bec)  Pfeffer, a passionate advocate for the dairy industry. Bec shares her journey from growing up in a family involved in dairy to her current role as a brand manager for a regional dairy cooperative. They discuss her involvement with the Dairy Girl Network, her experiences in marketing, and the importance of community and support among women in the dairy industry. Bec also touches on her personal projects, including a podcast with her sister, and reflects on the lessons learned throughout her career. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the importance of maintaining a balance between personal life and professional commitments in the agriculture sector. They discuss the value of diverse friendships outside of their agricultural circles, the fun of rapid-fire questions that reveal personal preferences, and share memorable travel experiences. The conversation also touches on self-reflection, offering advice to their younger selves, and concludes with inspirational quotes that resonate with their journeys.   takeaways Rebecca Pfeffer has a deep-rooted passion for the dairy industry. Her career began at Cargill, leading to various marketing roles. She is now a brand manager for a regional dairy cooperative. Bec recently became president of the Dairy Girl Network board. The Dairy Girl Network connects women in the dairy industry. She emphasizes the importance of community and support. Bec's podcast, Cowgirl Talk, explores sisterhood and agriculture. She believes in the value of continuous learning and adaptation. Google is a key resource for her in her career. She finds purpose in her work with Dairy Girl Network. It's important to have friends outside of your work environment. Diverse friendships can provide a refreshing perspective on life. Maintaining a balance between work and personal life is crucial. Travel experiences can shape our views and enrich our lives. Advice to younger selves often reflects personal growth and acceptance. Quotes can serve as powerful reminders of our values and goals. Sharing personal stories can inspire others in their journeys. Finding joy in simple traditions can enhance our holiday experiences. Food and travel often go hand in hand in creating memorable experiences. It's okay to embrace the journey and trust the process.   Sound Bites "I think I'm all right. You're right." "I was like, I can do this." "I call myself the dairy princess without a crown." "Google and go, that's the story of my career." "I feel a deeper purpose and value in the work." "It's all mind game and I love it." "It's nice having that separation." "Taco Bell has a really great Power Bowl." "My number one road trip stop is always a Sheetz." "I want to rent a villa in the South of France." "Keep doing what you're doing." "I'm honored to share my story with you."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:52 Career Journey in Dairy Industry 05:55 Dairy Girl Network Involvement 08:57 Personal Projects and Podcasting 11:58 Growing Up in Agriculture 15:01 Career Aspirations and Education 18:03 Corporate Journey and Marketing Experience 21:03 Learning and Adapting in New Roles 24:03 Dairy Girl Network Leadership 27:00 Community and Support in the Industry 37:28 Finding Balance: Life Beyond Agriculture 42:10 The Power of Diverse Friendships 43:47 Rapid Fire Fun: Getting to Know Each Other 51:50 Travel Tales: Favorite Trips and Bucket Lists 57:03 Advice to My Younger Self 59:23 Inspirational Quotes and Final Thoughts