In this episode of the Iowa Ag Podcast, host David Geiger talks with Alyssa Yoder-McClary of Canaan Farms about how value-added agriculture works. Alyssa shares how building a specialty farm business requires grit, open-mindedness, and sometimes a few happy accidents along the way. From careful budgeting to understanding the limitations of local markets, she explains why knowing the numbers is just as important as putting in the effort.
Alyssa talks about the realities of specialty farming, including barriers that come with small-scale production, processing access, and market reach. While the challenges are real, she also highlights the benefits of having her own business. One example is her use of beef tallow, which improves overall carcass utilization and transforms a traditional byproduct into high-value lotion, cream, and balm.
The conversation also goes over Alyssa’s personal journey into agriculture. While originally trained in graphic design, she reflects on the leap into farming and what she’s learned from building a business that blends creativity, production, and direct-to-consumer relationships. Her story underscores the diverse paths that lead people into modern agriculture.
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Alyssa was in town for the Practical Farmers of Iowa Annual Conference and she points out the importance of networking and connections. For small and value-added operations, collaboration and shared knowledge are key. Alyssa explains how learning from other farmers, processors, and entrepreneurs has helped Canaan Farms adapt and grow.
You can learn more about Alyssa and her business from her website: https://thebestbeefever.com/
