Meat Success

Chop Local Office Hours: How to Use AI in Your Meat Marketing

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Episode 38 | In a monthly Chop Local Office Hours Session, the team discusses using AI as a fast assistant for food and farm businesses, while emphasizing risks including confidentiality, loss of authentic voice, inaccuracies and “hallucinations,” confirmation bias, and concerns about environmental impact and rural data centers. They share practical uses: drafting and polishing difficult customer-service emails, FAQs, newsletters, and website copy; analyzing survey, sales, and expense spreadsheets; troubleshooting tech platforms like Google and Meta tools; and even interpreting medical reports while awaiting a doctor’s review.

For marketing, they recommend using AI for ideas and outlines rather than final posts, and warn that AI images often contain subtle errors, off-brand design, or unrealistic visuals. Tips include prompting with roles (“you are an expert”), asking for pros/cons, requesting peer-reviewed research, providing examples/links to match brand voice, and focusing copy on customer benefits; tools mentioned include ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Fathom Notetaker, and Canva.

If you've been curious about integrating AI into your Meat Business, give this episode a listen!

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct-to-consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100 Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

https://choplocal.com/
https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/
00:00 Welcome and Topic Setup
01:26 AI Risks and Privacy
02:37 Authentic Voice and Accuracy
06:07 Environmental and Rural Impacts
08:08 AI as a Fast Assistant
09:14 Customer Service and Tone
12:42 Data and Spreadsheet Analytics
15:22 Tech Troubleshooting and Other Uses
18:49 Marketing with AI
21:02 AI Images and Graphic Pitfalls
24:31 Prompting Tips for Better Output
32:16 Favorite Tools and Final Takeaways
33:35 Wrap Up and Next Steps

How Farmers Can Use Google Analytics & Search Console to Get Found Online with Julia Bocchese

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Episode 37 | Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct-to-consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100 Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

On this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie interviews Julia Bocchese of Homegrown Reach about SEO for small farms and related businesses. Julia explains she started serving farms after struggling as a customer to find local compost companies, farmers markets, and CSAs via Google, and now helps agricultural businesses improve search visibility. They cover what Google Analytics and Google Search Console do, why both free tools matter, and how “rankings” work.

Julia outlines basic setup steps, emphasizing that farmers must own their accounts (never let an agency set them up under the agency email) and can add professionals as admins. They discuss what to monitor (traffic sources, location, engagement, key pages, queries/clicks/impressions/position), common pitfalls like Linktree, split platforms (Squarespace + Shopify), site speed and image compression, and which Search Console alerts to ignore versus fix (notably 404s and some no-index issues).

Connect with Julia at https://homegrownreach.com/.

01:12 Julia Origin Story
04:01 Why SEO Matters
05:21 Google Analytics Basics
07:01 Search Console Explained
07:57 What Ranking Means
10:34 Local vs Product Keywords
12:57 Setting Up Analytics
17:27 Reading Analytics Data
17:55 Tracking Pitfalls to Avoid
20:43 Engagement and Site Speed
22:58 Setting Up Search Console
26:07 Ownership and Admin Access
29:11 Safe Account Access
30:17 Search Console Metrics
31:37 Live Search Console Walkthrough
36:25 Boosting Click Through Rate
40:31 Ignoring Scary GSC Emails
41:31 Fixing 404s and Noindex
45:27 Why Google Analytics Wins
47:15 UTM Links and Campaign Tracking
51:20 Wrap Up and Next Steps

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Introducing the Meat Squad: Your Partner in Local Meat Marketing Success

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 36 | Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, announces a new service called the Meat Squad and explains how it evolved from disruptions in the 2020 meat supply chain that drove demand for local meat and led to Chop Local’s online marketplace and later educational resources. After repeated requests from farmers and small butcher shops to “do it for me,” Chop Local formalized its done-for-you marketing work into the Meat Squad, led by Katie and Sierra with additional specialists as needed, and is currently hiring a graphic designer (noted for early March 2026). Services include email marketing, organic social media, Facebook and Google ads management, website design and platform setup (Shopify, Squarespace, Wix), and more. Two options are offered: a Startup plan for foundational brand and digital setup and a Scale Up package for ongoing monthly support, billed hourly with tracked time, plus optional one-on-one consulting.

Learn more here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meatsquad-meat-marketing

00:00 Welcome and announcement
00:43 2020 meat supply crisis
02:07 Chop Local marketplace origin
02:55 Education with University
03:35 Why Meat Squad exists
05:23 Team and services offered
07:11 How to hire us
07:33 Startup plan overview
08:27 Scale up plan ongoing
09:13 Pricing and tracking hours
10:24 Why we are effective
11:49 Working with competitors
12:55 Next steps and wrap up

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Exploring Social Media Trends and Tactics for Direct to Consumer Producers with Dr. Leona Su

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0700

On this episode of Meat Success, Dr. Leona Su joins the conversation to explore how farms and ranches can use social media as a practical business tool—not just a promotional outlet. The discussion covers building trust with consumers, choosing the right platforms for your operation, creating content that reflects real farm life, and turning online engagement into measurable value for your brand.

From time management strategies to maintaining authenticity while staying consistent, this episode offers approachable insights for producers at any stage of their social media journey. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your digital presence, you’ll walk away with ideas to help your farm’s story connect, educate, and grow.

Dr. Su is currently conducting additional research that examines how farmers like you use social media tools and AI to support your marketing efforts.

If you would like to participate, please complete this brief survey: https://illinois.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5b4HeeQVVKzcou2

*The data collected in this study will be used solely for research purposes, with interview videos transcribed for analysis and anonymized to remove any personally identifiable information. The data will be securely stored, accessible only to the research team, and be erased after the study concludes.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Regeneration Through Technology: A Conversation with Tom Richards, Founder of HarvestPath

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, sits down with Tom Richards to learn more about his regenerative ranch in California and his efforts with HarvestPath. Tom discusses his family’s long history in agriculture and their journey into selling beef direct to consumers.

Additionally, Tom dives deeper into HarvestPath, a software solution he developed to solve data management challenges in ranching. This comprehensive tool aids farmers, ranchers, and processors across the country in managing animal records, production costs, and customer relationships. The software, built on the Salesforce platform, offers modules for tracking animals, managing the production process, and handling customer relations and sales. Tom also highlights how the tool can assist with planning, loan applications, and operational scaling, aiming to support the alternative meat supply chain for greater success.

Make sure to sign up for the Spring Webinar Series, where we are sharing strategies on how to better sell your meat! Learn more here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/blog/2025-meat-marketing-webinars

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Rachel Jantzi's Path to Regenerative Agriculture in British Columbia

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 33 | In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, interviews Rachel Jantzi, a farmer from northeastern British Columbia. Rachel shares her journey from being a conventional and organic farmer to starting her own regenerative farm called Grazing Patch Farm. She discusses her current farm operation, which includes laying hens, meat birds, sheep, and pigs, and the logistics and challenges of raising these animals. Rachel outlines her diverse background, including carpentry, plumbing, working on large organic farms, and building robots, and how these experiences have helped her in farming. She details her meticulous planning and financial strategies, including the importance of accurate cost calculations and making use of online and community marketing to grow her customer base. Rachel emphasizes the importance of transparency and authenticity in marketing and shares tips on setting up an efficient system for online sales and customer engagement. Her story serves as an inspiration and a practical guide for aspiring regenerative farmers.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Office Hours Special: Maximizing Customer Value in 2026

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Episode 32 | In this special episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, presents key insights and data from the 2025 CHOP Local marketplace. The episode explores various metrics such as average order size and customer lifetime value, offering actionable strategies to increase repeat customer rates. Listeners will gain tips on enhancing customer satisfaction through personalized touches, effective post-order communication, and strategic email marketing. Katie also discusses the importance of shipping orders, leveraging social media, and preparing for upcoming marketing opportunities, including the Super Bowl and Valentine's Day. This data-driven episode aims to help vendors optimize their business strategies for increased sales and customer retention in 2026.

00:00 Introduction to the Meat Success Podcast
00:14 Overview of Monthly Office Hours
00:37 2025 Data Insights and Analysis
02:53 Understanding Customer Metrics
09:37 Strategies to Increase Repeat Customer Rate
13:36 Shipping vs. Pickup Orders
15:00 Characteristics of High-Performing Vendors
19:47 Marketing Ideas for Upcoming Events
21:49 Seasonal Promotions and Future Planning

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

How to Price and Sell Your Meat Online Direct to Consumer

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Episode 31 | In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, prepares to speak at the Annual Grassworks Conference about effective e-commerce strategies for direct-to-consumer farms. She shares insights from her presentation, which includes results from a national survey on online meat sales. Katie discusses the pros and cons of selling meat by exact weight versus using weight ranges, emphasizing that the latter can reduce customer uncertainty and increase sales. She also provides practical tips for farmers on managing inventory and selecting the right e-commerce platform.

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct-to-consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

00:00 Welcome to the Meat Success Podcast
00:12 Preparing for the Annual Grassworks Conference
00:40 Insights from the National Ag Marketing Summit
02:06 The Concept of Selling Meat by Exact Weight
02:28 Personal Meat Buying Experiences
04:15 Challenges with Exact Weight Pricing
05:17 The Shift to Weight Variations
09:17 Implementing Weight Variations in Practice
11:35 Customer Reactions and Best Practices
13:49 Conclusion and Call to Action

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

The Power of Storytelling with Jeff Charlton, 3C Joppa Cattle Company

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 30 | In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff discusses with Jeff Charlton, also known as the Chief Beef Slinger at 3C Joppa Ranch, his journey from corporate sales to managing a direct-to-consumer beef business. Jeff shares his background, entering the cattle industry through his wife's family ranch, and evolving the traditional cattle ranch into a modern operation optimized with technology. He delves into the importance of authenticity in marketing, evidenced by his use of selfie videos and AI tools for content creation. Jeff highlights the significance of partnerships and email marketing in growing his consumer base and offers advice on overcoming the challenges of shipping and marketing. Katie and Jeff also discuss the role of efficient systems and KPIs in tracking business success, emphasizing the balance between personal involvement and leveraging professional assistance.

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct-to-consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

00:00 Welcome to the Meat Success Podcast
01:08 Introducing Jeff Charlton: Chief Beef Slinger
02:07 Jeff's Journey into the Beef Business
05:31 Transitioning to Direct-to-Consumer Beef Sales
11:38 The Role of Authenticity and AI in Marketing
22:46 Custom Marketing GPT: A Game Changer
24:12 Efficiency and Core Values
24:21 Limitations of Chat GPT in Cattle Production
26:10 Influencer Partnerships and Sales Strategies
30:00 Monetizing Email Lists and Ad Strategies
37:06 Challenges in Shipping and Social Media
38:49 Final Advice for Farmers and Ranchers

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Meat Marketing Trends You Need to be Using in 2026

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 29 | In the first episode of 2026, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, and Sierra Long, the marketing specialist at Chop Local, discuss marketing strategies and trends for the year. They emphasize the importance of authenticity on social media, especially behind-the-scenes content and showcasing real people.

The discussion also touches on the cautious use of AI in marketing, highlighting its utility for text but noting the current flaws in AI-generated images and graphics. Katie and Sierra also talk about the ongoing significance of customer service, from personalized messages to well-packaged shipments. They strongly advocate for email marketing over social media for better conversion rates and emphasize the effectiveness of targeted meta and Google ads for scaling meat businesses. The conversation wraps up with a reminder about the USDA's Value-Added Producer Grant.

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct-to-consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

00:30 Holiday Recap and Marketing Plans
02:04 Authenticity in Social Media
04:49 AI in Marketing: Pros and Cons
13:59 The Importance of Protein and Meat Benefits
24:40 Customer Service Excellence
30:39 The Power of Email Marketing
37:14 Scaling with Meta and Google Ads
43:49 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Profit-Driven Promotions: Mastering Meat Marketing for Direct to Consumer Businesses

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct-to-consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, shares her expertise on executing effective sales and promotions for meat businesses. Katie discusses the importance of promotions in attracting budget-conscious consumers, managing inventory, and increasing sales. She offers insights into different types of promotions, strategic discounting, and the psychology of numbers. Katie emphasizes the need for clear communication of sales and promotions and the importance of creating a sense of urgency to drive customer action. Drawing from her experience, she also highlights how to leverage email marketing, social media, and meta ads to maximize the impact of these promotions.

00:00 Welcome to Meet Success Podcast
01:21 Introduction to Sales and Promotions
01:59 Why Sales and Promotions Matter
04:23 Strategies for Effective Sales and Promotions
14:52 Communicating Your Sales and Promotions
18:00 Creating Urgency with End Dates
20:29 Conclusion and Consulting Services

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Email Marketing for D2C Livestock Farmers, Ranchers, and Butcher Shops

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 27 | This is a webinar replay brought to you by ChopLocal University.

Email marketing is arguably the most effective marketing strategy that you can be using for your meat business - and it doesn't have to be scary!

In this free webinar, we'll uncover the secrets to successful email marketing.

You'll learn:

- effective email design

- how to get people to WANT to sign up for your list

- best practices to maximize your email marketing efforts

Whether you're just getting started with email marketing, or you've been at it a while and it's not performing as well as you'd like, this webinar will provide tips and tricks that are useful for email marketers at any level.

This free webinar is taught by ChopLocal's Katie Olthoff, a farmer and former teacher with over 10 years of experience using email marketing in food and agriculture.

For more FREE resources to help you sell more meat:

- Visit https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/

- Subscribe to our email newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/choplocal/choplocal-university

- Follow us @ ChopLocal University on Facebook and/or Instagram

-Catch the course mentioned in this episode here: http://choplocaluniversity.com/email-marketing

Maximize Your Meat Business with These Four Winter Marketing Projects

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Episode 25 | In this episode of the Meet Success podcast, host Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, shares four essential winter projects that will significantly improve your meat business and marketing. Katie emphasizes the importance of effective, low-cost, one-and-done tasks such as SEO optimization, gathering customer reviews, taking mouthwatering product photos, and creating an automated welcome sequence for email subscribers. These strategies aim to enhance your brand’s online presence, customer trust, and overall sales performance. Tune in for practical tips and start making lasting improvements to your meat business today.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:30 SEO Tips for Your Meat Business
06:19 Gathering and Utilizing Customer Reviews
09:26 Creating Mouthwatering Product Photos
12:42 Automated Welcome Sequence for Email Subscribers
19:44 Recap and Marketing Funnel Insights
21:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

How Grants Can Transform Your Direct-To-Consumer Meat Business with Stephen Ussery

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Episode 24 | Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct to consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

In this episode, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, sits down with Stephen Ussery from Stewart's Unlimited to discuss various grant opportunities for farmers and meat processors. They cover the value of agricultural grants, particularly the Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) and the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion (MPE) grant. Stephen offers insights into the grant application process, the importance of business planning, and how to effectively utilize grant funds for expanding and improving agricultural businesses. They also touch on the role of artificial intelligence in grant writing, illustrating its potential benefits for efficiency and accuracy.

Learn more about Stewards Unlimited here: https://stewardsunlimited.com/about/

01:06 Overview of Stewards Unlimited
03:51 Grant Opportunities and Challenges
05:13 Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPE)
17:10 Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG)
33:21 Excitement for Paid Ads and VAPG Program
35:26 The Importance of Identifying Ideal Customers
37:24 Challenges and Strategies in Customer Retention
39:41 Exploring Funding Options for Farmers
41:30 Effective Use of Grants for Business Expansion
47:05 Grant Writing Tips and AI Assistance
55:01 Final Thoughts and Resources

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Listener Favorite Re-Run: Meat Pricing and Marketing: Strategies for Success with Matt LeRoux

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Episode 24 | Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct to consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

We’re bringing back one of the most-loved episodes of the Meat Success podcast — and for good reason. In this fan-favorite conversation, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of ChopLocal and ChopLocal University, sits down with Matt LeRoux, one of the most trusted voices in direct-to-consumer meat marketing and pricing.

Matt shares his unexpected journey from vegetarian to industry expert, along with years of hands-on work supporting farmers across the northeast. Katie and Matt dig into his time at Cornell and the Dyson School of Applied Economics, the creation of Meat Suite (a go-to directory for bulk meat sales), and practical tools like the Meat Price Calculator and Bundle Builder that help producers price with confidence.

You’ll also hear smart, actionable takeaways from Matt’s farmer’s market research — from booth layout and customer flow to the real impact of accepting credit cards and using simple marketing techniques to boost demand.

Whether you’re new to direct-to-consumer sales or looking to level up your strategy, this rerun is packed with the kind of insight that keeps listeners coming back.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Creating & Marketing Irrestible Holiday Gift Boxes

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 23 | This webinar replay focuses on strategies for increasing holiday sales, particularly through the use of online marketplaces like Chop Local. The panel features two Chop Local vendors, Theresa Davis of West 40 Market and Rebecca Dalton of Dalton Farms, who share their experiences and tips. Topics discussed include the importance of early and consistent marketing, flexible and appealing packaging, collaborating with local businesses for gift bundles, and handling pre-orders and last-minute requests. Both vendors emphasize the utility of social media for promotion and the necessity of clear communication with customers. They also touch on practical aspects like taking deposits for big orders, balancing inventory, and creative ways to make gift bundles attractive. The session concludes with a Q&A segment addressing specific logistical and marketing questions from attendees.

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct to consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

How Margaret Schwartz is Redefining Direct-to-Consumer Lamb Sales

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 22 | Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct to consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

In this episode of the Meat Success Podcast, Katie Olthoff interviews Margaret Schwartz of Schwartz Meat Company, a family-run lamb farm in Eastern Kentucky. Margaret discusses the farm's six-generation sheep-raising legacy, which she and her husband expanded into a meat business just before the COVID-19 pandemic. The episode covers unique aspects of lamb marketing, crafting recipes, and customer education on cooking lamb. Margaret shares insights into organizing successful farm-to-fork dinners in partnership with Hatmaker Homestead, where they offer seasonal meals featuring their meats and local produce. They also delve into raising children on the farm and leveraging photography to enhance marketing efforts. The conversation encapsulates the Schwartz’s dedication to sustainable farming, community engagement, and innovative culinary experiences.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Pinterest Marketing Strategies for Farmers and Butcher Shops with Kate Ahl

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Episode 21 | Make sure to sign up for the Spring Webinar Series, where we are sharing strategies on how to better sell your meat! Learn more here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/blog/2025-meat-marketing-webinars

In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff talks with Kate Ahl from Simple Pin Media about leveraging Pinterest for business marketing. Kate explains how Pinterest has evolved from a platform for creative ideas to a powerful search engine and marketing tool, particularly useful for businesses like farms and butcher shops. They discuss the importance of treating Pinterest as a long-term investment and a search engine rather than a social media platform. Key topics covered include creating effective pins, using keywords strategically, the benefits of Pinterest for driving traffic and sales, setting up a Pinterest profile properly, and the potential of Pinterest ads. Kate emphasizes the need for businesses to produce content that educates and informs users, aligning with their planning behaviors. Practical tips for creating and scheduling pins, using Canva for visual content, and the integration of Pinterest with other marketing tools and platforms are also discussed. The conversation highlights Pinterest's potential as an essential part of a comprehensive digital marketing strategy.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Unlocking SEO Success for Farmers: Tips and Strategies with Kelly Stanze

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct to consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

Episode 20 | In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, is joined by Kelly Stanze as they focus on Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and its importance for farmers and butcher shops setting up their own websites. Kelly is an SEO expert with nearly 15 years of experience, particularly in the agriculture and food industries. They discuss the basics of SEO, the importance of using customer-friendly language, and the role of AI in search engines. Kelly emphasizes the need for local listing management, effective use of images, and the benefits of various website platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix. They also touch on advanced topics like URL optimization and the significance of making websites accessible to visually impaired users. The episode is packed with actionable tips tailored to help rural and small-scale businesses enhance their online visibility.

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Building a Locker from the Ground Up with Ty Gustafson

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct to consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

Episode 19 | In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, co-founder of Chop Local, Katie Olthoff, interviews Ty Gustafson, a co-owner of Story City Locker. Ty discusses the inception of Story City Locker, which he and his business partner Bobbie started in 2013 to achieve a more balanced life and stay closer to home. They transitioned from corporate jobs to opening a custom meat-processing facility in Story City, Iowa, after extensive planning and community support. The locker focuses primarily on beef and pork, performing both custom and state-inspected processing. Ty emphasizes the importance of good communication with farmers, the need for proper employee management, and the adoption of Temple Grandin's animal handling principles to ensure meat quality. They also address seasonal business fluctuations and strategies for maintaining operations year-round. The episode offers valuable insights into managing a meat-processing business and highlights the significance of quality, customer satisfaction, and community engagement.

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Optimizing Your Farm Market: Lessons from Pleasant View Beef

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct to consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

Episode 18 | In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff from Chop Local interviews Kayla Lewis of Pleasant View Beef. The conversation explores the role of women in the family farm business, particularly focusing on marketing and store management. Kayla details the history of Pleasant View Beef, which transitioned from dairy to beef in 2023 due to economic challenges. The farm began selling beef direct to consumers in 2018, starting with small-scale cuts and gradually expanding to a dedicated retail store. The interview highlights the impact of COVID-19 on local food businesses, with Pleasant View Beef seeing increased demand leading to the establishment of a larger store in 2021. Key points discussed include the importance of location, customer education, and seasonal sales strategies. Kayla also shares insights on managing customer relations, product diversification, and continuous growth achieved through innovative marketing and community engagement.

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Sustainable Success: Navigating Growth in Direct-to-Consumer Meat Sales with Vintage Beef

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Grab our mEat-Commerce Essentials to start making money in your direct to consumer business today with $100 off the course with code: POD100

Snag Access Here: https://www.choplocaluniversity.com/meat-commerce-essentials-1

Episode 17 | In this episode of the Meat Success Podcast, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of Chop Local and Chop Local University, is back for Season 2! In this first episode, she chats with Deb Gress of Vintage Beef. Deb shares how she and her husband launched their farm-to-table beef business in 2017, starting with just 10 head of cattle and a few freezers. Today, they butcher about 75 head annually and run an on-farm store supported by a Choose Iowa Grant, offering beef, pork, lamb, honey, and local goods on consignment. Deb discusses the role of social media, word-of-mouth, and customer relationships in their growth, as well as adapting to pandemic challenges, shifting to online sales with Chop Local, and experimenting with events and collaborations. She emphasizes steady growth and learning from fellow farmers as keys to success in direct-to-consumer meat sales.

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Meat Pricing and Marketing: Strategies for Success with Matt LeRoux

Thu, 01 May 2025 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, host Katie Olthoff, co-founder of ChopLocal and ChopLocal University, interviews Matt LeRoux, a resident expert on direct-to-consumer meat marketing and meat pricing. Matt shares his journey from being a vegetarian to becoming a meat marketing expert, working extensively with farmers in the northeast. They discuss Matt's roles at Cornell and the Dyson School of Applied Economics, his project 'Meat Suite,' which is a directory for bulk meat sales, and tools like the Meat Price Calculator and Bundle Builder designed to help farmers price their products effectively. The conversation also covers the importance of marketing techniques, consumer demand, and strategic pricing, as well as insights from Matt's farmer's market research, emphasizing booth setup, customer interactions, and the benefits of accepting credit cards. The episode is a rich resource for meat producers looking to optimize their direct-to-consumer sales strategies.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Beyond the Meat: Goats on the Go with Aaron Steele

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff interviews Aaron Steele, founder of Goats on the Go, a national targeted grazing service. Aaron explains how his goats and sheep are used to control unwanted vegetation for diverse customers, from suburban backyard owners to government agencies concerned with wildfire prevention. He discusses the economics of combining meat goat production with commercial grazing services, emphasizing how multi-revenue streams can make goat farming more profitable. Aaron also shares insights on market segmentation, pricing strategies, and the importance of understanding customer values. He highlights the necessity for affiliates to provide great customer service, value their time appropriately, and be enthusiastic about their business. Katie connects these ideas to selling meat direct to consumers, stressing the significance of meeting customer values and providing a quality product. Aaron plugs his audiobook, 'Goats for Good,' which outlines the benefits and enterprises associated with raising goats.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

How to Sell More Meat Using Social Media with Sierra Walter

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0700

This episode is a replay of a ChopLocal University marketing webinar designed to help butchers and direct-to-consumer meat sellers sell more meat using smarter social media strategies. Hosted by Sierra Walter, ChopLocal’s new marketing specialist and social media expert, this session is packed with actionable tips tailored for the meat industry.

Sierra walks through key elements of building an effective social media presence—covering everything from strategic planning and content creation to boosting engagement. You’ll learn why providing valuable content matters more than jumping on every trend, how to stay consistent using a content calendar, and how to use tools like Canva and InShot to streamline your workflow.

She also shares practical advice on using reels, writing strong captions, tapping into local Facebook groups, and scheduling posts with Meta Business Suite. Plus, the webinar touches on common social media struggles, offers free downloadable resources, and gives a sneak peek at upcoming ChopLocal University trainings.

Whether you're a seasoned butcher or just starting your farm-to-table journey, this replay is full of insights to help you connect with your customers and move more meat.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Harnessing the Power of Social Media in Your Direct to Consumer Meat Business

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 01:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of ChopLocal and ChopLocal University, introduces the latest team member, Sierra Walter. Sierra shares her background in agriculture, growing up in Western Oklahoma on a cow-calf operation and with a keen interest in horses. She discusses her involvement in her family's beef business and how these experiences shaped her career path. Katie and Sierra delve into social media marketing strategies relevant to small meat businesses, including the importance of consistency, the impact of visually appealing content, and the use of stories and reels on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. They also explore the utility of various tools, such as mini mics and gimbals, to enhance content creation. The episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for leveraging social media to boost business visibility and engagement.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

From Farmers Markets to Brick and Mortar with Teresa Davis, West Forty Market

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0700

On this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff interviews Teresa Davis from West 40 Market in Ankeny, Iowa. Theresa shares her journey from farmer’s market vendor to opening a brick-and-mortar store during COVID-19, highlighting challenges, community building, and strategic marketing. She emphasizes teamwork, customer relationships, and adaptability in business growth.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

How to get People to BUY Meat From Your Online Store

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of ChopLocal and ChopLocal University, turns their recent webinar 'How to Make People Buy from Your Online Store' into an episode for you today. Katie discusses the challenges faced by farmers and butcher shops in converting physical store customers into online buyers. She emphasizes the significance of conversion rate optimization (CRO), sharing strategies for attracting and retaining online customers. Katie outlines the essential elements for improving e-commerce conversion rates, such as effective target customer analysis, clear product descriptions, high-quality product photos, and using sales promotions strategically. She also talks about the importance of keeping inventory consistent and making logistical details easily accessible. The podcast wraps up by presenting three action steps for different types of store owners and introduces an upcoming accelerator program to help vendors improve their online sales performance.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Harnessing Social Media and Building a Local Brand with Rebecca Dalton

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0700

On the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff talks with Rebecca Dalton of Dalton Farms about her transition from nursing to managing a direct-to-consumer beef business. Rebecca shares how she married into farming, shifted their cattle operation to direct sales, and built a loyal customer base through social media. She discusses launching the Meat Barn, balancing farm and family life, and strategies for engaging customers online.

Make sure to follow Rebecca Online Below

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

From Field to Fork: Revolutionizing Pork with Sam from Sweetwater Farm and Ranch Co.

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Meat Success, Katie Olthoff, Co-Founder of ChopLocal talks with Sam Santry from Sweetwater Farm and Ranch Co. in central California. Sam describes the farm's unique geography in the Sierra Nevada foothills and their focus on raising Berkshire pork. The conversation covers the logistics of selling high-quality pork to various restaurants, including fine dining establishments, the importance of building strong relationships with chefs, and overcoming challenges in the supply chain. Sam explains the long-term strategy of offering free samples, emphasizing building trust with chefs and restaurant owners, and adjusting to customer needs. They also discuss difficulties of working with grocery stores, the incremental success in marketing directly to consumers, and using regenerative farming practices to improve soil health. Sam shares the farm's journey from simply having land to creating a sustainable business model, the challenges and rewards of their approach, and insights into effective marketing and establishing partnerships. Learn more about Sam and his operation here: https://www.swfrc.com/

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Navigating Small Town Meat Processing with Marc, Cedar Road Meats

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Meat Success, Katie Olthoff, co-founder of ChopLocal, interviews Marc from Cedar Road Meats in Wisconsin. Marc details the history and evolution of the family-owned business, which began in 2004 and recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. Initially focused on survival and providing local farmers with quality meat processing services, Cedar Road Meats transitioned to a federally inspected facility, expanding its offerings to include a storefront and sales in supermarkets. The conversation delves into the challenges and strategies of running a small meat processing business, such as dealing with seasonal dips, the importance of skilled labor, the shift away from deer processing, and exploring value-added products. Marc emphasizes the importance of consistent quality service, improving internal processes, customer communication, and maintaining good relationships with both employees and local farmers. He also shares insights on the impact of the pandemic on the business and future growth strategies that involve leveraging online sales and innovative marketing.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Exploring the Nuances of Raising Grass Fed and Grass Finished Cattle with Ryan Studnicka, Studnicka Cattle Co.

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode of 'Meat Success' from ChopLocal University, Katie Olthoff interviews Ryan Studnicka of Studnicka Cattle Co. in Muscadet, Wisconsin. Ryan shares his journey from growing up on a multi-generation dairy farm to transitioning into the grass-finished cattle business. He discusses the intricacies and benefits of rotational grazing, emphasizing soil health, pasture management, and maintaining high-quality beef. Ryan also delves into his marketing strategies, the importance of customer service, and the role consistency plays in his business's growth. The conversation includes the personal aspects of his busy life, balancing farm operations with family commitments, and coaching basketball.

Connect with Studnicka Cattle Co. Online Below

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Behind the Scenes of ChopLocal with Katie Olthoff and Sydney Hadacek

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode of the "Meat Success" podcast from Choplocal, co-founder Katie Olthoff interviews Sydney Hadacek, a key member of the Choplocal team. Sydney shares her agricultural background and her journey from growing up on an Angus cattle farm in Eastern Iowa to her role at Choplocal, where she supports vendors—farmers and butcher shops—in setting up and managing their online stores. She discusses her experience, particularly in email marketing, inventory management, and vendor relations, offering valuable insights for vendors considering selling their products online.

And learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University Below!

Discover how to niche down to separate yourself from the competition with Chris & Tawney Wolters, Fluffy Butt Farms

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this podcast episode, Katie Olthoff from Choplocal sits down with Chris and Tawney Wolters, first-generation farmers who started Fluffy Butt Farms in Michigan. The Wolters transitioned from careers in the airline industry to farming during the COVID-19 pandemic, beginning with chickens and eventually expanding to goats, pigs, and cows.

They share insights on their farm's operations, including challenges with raising certain animals, the growth of their business through farmers markets, email marketing, and their goat grazing service. They also discuss their approach to raising niche breeds and maintaining high-quality meat products, emphasizing the importance of ongoing learning and building customer relationships through direct sales and social media engagement.

Connect with Fluffy Butt Farms Online

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University below

How Customer Satisfaction Drives Word of Mouth Sales with Kyle Fannin, Lazy Creek Meats

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Katie Olthoff interviews Kyle Fannin from Lazy Creek Meats, discussing the history and evolution of their family-run cattle business. They explore the importance of genetics in cattle production, the impact of COVID-19 on consumer demand, and the strategies Lazy Creek Meats employs to market their products directly to consumers. Kyle shares insights on building a brand through storytelling, leveraging professional networks, and the significance of customer feedback in defining success for their business. In this conversation, Kyle and Katie discuss the importance of marketing tools for producers, the connection between producers and consumers, and the significance of understanding audience demographics. They share insights on learning from failures, maximizing product value, and targeting health-conscious consumers. The discussion emphasizes the need for producers to adapt their strategies based on customer preferences and market trends, while also highlighting the importance of building relationships within the industry.

Connect with Lazy Creek Meats Online

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University below

From Flowers to Meat: The Over the Moon Journey with Anna

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Summary

In this episode of the Meat Success podcast, Katie Olthoff interviews Anna from Over the Moon Farm and Flowers. They discuss the unique journey of Anna's farm, which started with cut flowers and expanded into meat sales. The conversation explores the challenges and successes of navigating different markets, understanding customer demographics, and the importance of diversifying protein offerings. Anna shares insights on marketing niche products like pork and the innovative steps they are taking to enhance their business. In this conversation, Anna Hankins discusses her experiences and insights as a farmer transitioning from farmers markets to a more sustainable business model. She shares her journey of participating in the Midwest Meat Summit, the challenges of poultry processing, and the importance of social media in connecting with customers. Anna emphasizes the need for a sustainable farming approach that supports the community and other businesses, while also defining success in terms of longevity and impact.

Connect with Over the Moon Farm and Flowers Online

https://overthemoonfarmiowa.com/

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University below

The Secret Sauce: Family in Farming with Candice from WhiteBarn Beef

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In this podcast episode, Katie Olthoff from Choplocal interviews Candice, who runs White Barn Beef with her husband Jason in Portal, Arizona. They discuss their unique approach to farming in the desert, combining crop cultivation with cattle feeding in an environment traditionally seen as unsuitable for such practices.

Candice also highlights their journey into the direct-to-consumer beef market, particularly how COVID-19 spurred their business growth, leading them to sell American Wagyu beef. They delve into their marketing strategies, including social media use, farmer's markets, and the successful transition to shipping beef to broader markets.

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University below

Navigating the Niche Meat Business: Insights from ChopLocal

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0700

In this inaugural episode of the ChopLocal podcast, Meat Success, co-founders Katie Olthoff and Jared Achen introduce the premise of the platform, sharing stories and expert insights on selling meat directly to consumers. They delve into Jared's background, how ChopLocal started, and the challenges faced by farmers and butcher shops.

Key topics include the value of mentorship and real-world experience, the debated role of consultants, and the importance of farmers valuing their time. They also highlight the significance of balancing business growth with personal fulfillment and mental health.

Learn more about ChopLocal and ChopLocal University below