Returning to Raw: Boutique Dairy Farming with Jen Craddick of Lovenwater Farm

In this episode of Return to Nature, Melissa interviews Jen Craddick, a multi-sector entrepreneur, former petroleum industry professional, and a founder devoted to restoring traditional food systems while strengthening family centered farm life. Based in Kalispell, Montana, Jen operates Lovenwater Farm, a small agricultural enterprise focused on upscale, boutique style dairy production, livestock stewardship, and organically cultivated produce and flowers.Before moving to Montana and expanding Lovenwater Farm, Jen worked within multiple divisions of the oil fields in Western North Dakota. This background gives her a unique perspective, combining technical precision and practical knowledge. Jen’s work centers on offering the highest quality, nutrient dense foods using old world methods. The entire vision of Lovenwater farm is centered on a commitment to transparency, stewardship, and regenerative practices.Above all, Jen’s primary purpose and guiding role is serving others. Her work on the farm and business is rooted in building a stable, meaningful life not only for her own family but for many other families in the community. Sharing hard learned and gritty lessons she is preserving a legacy of independence and connection to the land. She views farming not only as an occupation, but as a calling that supports all future generations.Jen Shares:How she and her husband moved to North Dakota for jobs in the petroleum industryThe poor soil conditions at her property in North Dakota that led her to starting Lovenwater farmHer high performance mentality that ultimately showed her that she wanted to step back from corporate lifeThe pull many women have felt to be at home with their children, but also still be a provider and how she bridged that gap for herselfThe financial and regulatory realities of being a dairy farmerHow and why she got into dairy farming when she moved to Montana Why raw milk became seen as dangerous to our healthAll about pasteurization and homogenization of milkThey importance of localization in farmingThe regulations surrounding raw milk in Montana The health and life of a Lovenwater farm cow The specifics of raising Jersey cowsHow different types of cheese came about based on different regions, soils, and grassesThe importance of eating regionally How she reversed her lactose-intolerance with raw milkYou can connect with Jen via Lovenwater Farm:Website: www.lovenwaterfarm.comInstagram: @lovenwaterfarmFacebook: @lovenwaterfarmIntro/Outro Music by Ken Belcher