Natalie Kovarik on Ranching, Podcasting, and Bridging the Ag Gap
Take a break, we’re on Smoko. In this episode, we’re joined by Natalie Kovarik, a dynamic businesswoman, podcaster, and cattle rancher. Raised on a ranch in Montana, Natalie originally pursued a career in pharmacy before returning to her agricultural roots. Today, she and her husband run Kovarik Cattle Company in central Nebraska—a family operation that embodies the complexity, heart, and hustle of modern ranching.
Natalie offers an authentic look at what it takes to run a ranch—balancing livestock, land, and family. She shares how misconceptions about agriculture shaped her mission to educate and connect with consumers, especially through storytelling and transparent conversations.
“Ag life isn’t just a job; it’s family, resilience, and adapting to whatever nature throws at us.” – Natalie Kovarik
We explore Natalie’s podcast, Discover Ag, co-hosted with Tara Vander Dussen. The show bridges the urban-rural divide, tackling hot-button topics in agriculture and demystifying where our food comes from. Natalie discusses how she selects topics, balances education with entertainment, and why she believes consumer connection is key to agriculture’s future.
This episode dives into the environmental, social, and cultural layers of agriculture—highlighting the mental health realities of farming, the economic pressures of ranching, and the significance of food storytelling. Natalie’s voice is grounded, informative, and deeply committed to bringing visibility and respect to rural life.
Whether you’re a rancher, a food lover, or just curious about the world behind your plate, this conversation will expand your perspective and deepen your appreciation for ag life.