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S02 E01: Women in Agriculture

2025-12-0340:26


Season Two of Digging In with UFA opens with a powerful conversation that celebrates leadership, resilience and innovation in farming. In this episode, we shine a spotlight on women who are shaping the future of agriculture, not through scripted drama, but through real-world grit and vision. Our guests share candid stories from the farm gate, exploring the evolving roles, challenges and opportunities for women in the agricultural industry. From balancing tradition with progress to breaking barriers in leadership, this episode offers inspiration, practical wisdom and insights that matter to the future of farming.

Your Guests

Josie Pashulka

Josie Pashulka is the co-owner of Rusylvia Cattle Co., a family-run operation in Alberta known for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Recognized with the Women in Ag Award from Agriculture Financial Services Corporation, Josie is a passionate advocate for advancing women's leadership in agriculture. Her experience spans herd management, business strategy and community engagement, making her a respected voice in the industry.

Josie is a true leader in agriculture. As the backbone of Rusylvia Cattle Co., she has played an instrumental role in breeding excellence, managing a thriving purebred and commercial cow-calf operation, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the farm. But her impact extends far beyond her own operation.

Josie has been an Alberta Beef Producers delegate for five years, advocating for producers and strengthening the industry. She has also served as an auditor for VBP+ (Verified Beef Production) for 12 years, assessing beef operations for on-farm food safety, helping to ensure best practices across the industry.

Through her work at Lakeland College, she has trained countless students in artificial insemination, helping to shape the future of livestock management. Her dedication to mentorship is evident in her long-standing support of 4-H, where she has guided young producers with knowledge, encouragement and hands-on learning opportunities. Her leadership in the Canadian Maine-Anjou Association has further strengthened opportunities for junior producers, ensuring that the next generation has the support they need to thrive. Josie's passion for agriculture, her tireless work ethic and her unwavering support of others have made a lasting impact on the industry.

HOME - rusylviacattleco.com





Meet Rachel Herbert – Rancher, Author and Advocate for Sustainable Agriculture

Kicking off Season Two of Digging In, we're thrilled to welcome Rachel Herbert, a voice that bridges tradition and innovation in agriculture. Rachel is the co-owner of Trail's End Beef, a ranching operation in Alberta's stunning Porcupine Hills, where she and her family raise grass-fed, grass-finished beef with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship.

Her roots run deep. Rachel is the great-granddaughter of pioneer ranchers but her journey back to ranch life is anything but ordinary. After years as a vegetarian and earning an MA in History from the University of Calgary, Rachel returned to her family's ranch near Nanton, Alberta. Today, alongside her husband Tyler, she's raising the fourth generation while balancing heritage with modern practices.

Rachel is also the author of Ranching Women in Southern Alberta, a powerful chronicle of the women who shaped ranching history. When she's not feeding cows or chasing kids, you'll find her reading, riding and championing the ranching lifestyle.

In Episode One, Rachel shares her unique perspective on preserving the ranching way of life while embracing innovation, a conversation that sets the tone for a season dedicated to exploring resilience, sustainability and the stories behind our food.

Ranching Women in Southern Alberta - University of Calgary Press





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