Wisconsin Dairy Farmer Finds Social Media Success Bridging Agriculture and Consumers
Source: DairyNews.today
As the U.S. dairy industry enjoys a resurgence, Wisconsin dairy farmer Annaliese Wegner, known online as Modern Day Farm Chick, has become a prominent voice connecting agriculture to consumers through humor and authenticity.
Speaking at the MILK Business Conference in Las Vegas during a live taping of the Unscripted podcast, Wegner reflected on her journey to becoming a leading social media influencer in the agriculture sector. Her candid posts about farm life, raising twins, and even lighthearted moments like hiding the holiday elf have earned her 63,000 Instagram followers and 148,000 Facebook fans.
Dairy’s Comeback
The dairy sector saw renewed momentum in 2023, with per capita consumption climbing to 661 pounds annually — levels not seen since the 1950s, according to USDA data. Increased demand for cheese, butter, cottage cheese, and yogurt has buoyed domestic markets, offering dairy farmers a welcome respite from years of challenges.
“Cottage cheese is having a moment,” Wegner said on the podcast, hosted by Tyne Morgan and Clinton Griffiths. The podcast highlighted how shifting consumer preferences are driving optimism in the industry, contrasting the struggles facing row crop farmers amid low commodity prices and rising input costs.
From Myth-Busting to Storytelling
Wegner’s social media journey began with frustration over misinformation about agriculture shared online. Initially focused on correcting myths, she discovered that storytelling and relatability were more effective. Her posts now offer a glimpse into everyday life on her family’s farm, blending humor and sincerity to foster trust with her audience.
“You build connections. You build trust. So when I do talk about farming, they believe what I say,” she explained.
Humor as a Tool for Connection
Wegner’s lighthearted posts resonate with followers, reflecting her philosophy that life’s challenges, including farming, are best approached with humor. “Life is funny. Farming is funny. Do we want to get angry about it and let it ruin our day, or do we want to laugh about it and move on?” she said.
Advice for Aspiring Ag Influencers
Encouraging other farmers to embrace social media, Wegner stressed the importance of authenticity. “Don’t overthink it. Don’t try to make it the perfect post. People just want to see you and what you do in your life and on your farm. They just want to relate to another person.”
As the dairy industry continues its upward trajectory, influencers like Wegner are proving vital in bridging the gap between producers and consumers, fostering understanding and appreciation for modern agriculture.
Dairy’s Comeback
The dairy sector saw renewed momentum in 2023, with per capita consumption climbing to 661 pounds annually — levels not seen since the 1950s, according to USDA data. Increased demand for cheese, butter, cottage cheese, and yogurt has buoyed domestic markets, offering dairy farmers a welcome respite from years of challenges.
“Cottage cheese is having a moment,” Wegner said on the podcast, hosted by Tyne Morgan and Clinton Griffiths. The podcast highlighted how shifting consumer preferences are driving optimism in the industry, contrasting the struggles facing row crop farmers amid low commodity prices and rising input costs.
From Myth-Busting to Storytelling
Wegner’s social media journey began with frustration over misinformation about agriculture shared online. Initially focused on correcting myths, she discovered that storytelling and relatability were more effective. Her posts now offer a glimpse into everyday life on her family’s farm, blending humor and sincerity to foster trust with her audience.
“You build connections. You build trust. So when I do talk about farming, they believe what I say,” she explained.
Humor as a Tool for Connection
Wegner’s lighthearted posts resonate with followers, reflecting her philosophy that life’s challenges, including farming, are best approached with humor. “Life is funny. Farming is funny. Do we want to get angry about it and let it ruin our day, or do we want to laugh about it and move on?” she said.
Advice for Aspiring Ag Influencers
Encouraging other farmers to embrace social media, Wegner stressed the importance of authenticity. “Don’t overthink it. Don’t try to make it the perfect post. People just want to see you and what you do in your life and on your farm. They just want to relate to another person.”
As the dairy industry continues its upward trajectory, influencers like Wegner are proving vital in bridging the gap between producers and consumers, fostering understanding and appreciation for modern agriculture.
