In this soulful episode of Barns + Farms w/side of Cornbread, we’re pulling up chairs, pouring sweet tea, and diving into a conversation that celebrates real women, real grit, and a whole lot of grace. We’re joined by powerhouse voices from Thrive WNC Women’s Entrepreneur Network—Amy Steele and Sarah Stokes—alongside special guest Meg Montgomery, a whole-animal butcher at Foothills Butchery in Black Mountain, NC.

Together, we unpack what it truly means to build each other up as women in business, especially in the heart of Southern Appalachia. From networking events to meaningful mentorship, the Thrive WNC Women’s Entrepreneur Network is cultivating a space where female founders and dream-chasers can grow, collaborate, and thrive.

With Meg at the table, we also dig into what it’s like being a woman in the traditionally male-dominated field of butchery—and how she’s carving her path (literally and figuratively) with strength and skill.

So grab your slice of cornbread, settle in, and join us for this nourishing episode.

👉 Learn more about Foothills Butchery: ⁠Foothills Butchery⁠👉 Follow Thrive WNC Women's Network: I⁠nstagram - ThriveWNCwen

🎙️ Episode 5: The Legacy and Evolution of Packa’s Place – A Story of Family, Farming, and Community

In this episode, we return to Horse Shoe, NC to Packa’s Place, where the 6th-generation of a remarkable farming family continues to honor their roots while embracing the future. Named after their grandmother, Packa, this farm carries a legacy of innovation and connection—starting with the unique heritage of raising and processing Beefalo (intrigued? Listen and find out just what Beefalo is!)

But Packa’s Place became more than a farm—it’s a thriving hub of agritourism, community, and creativity. What started as a pandemic-driven idea for a pumpkin patch has flourished into something much bigger. Today, the farm is alive with artisan markets, food trucks, local beer, and seasonal events, all designed to bring people together.

Join us as we dive into their journey—how they’re preserving history while adapting to the modern world, the challenges and triumphs of running a multi-generational farm, and their light-hearted vision for the future. It’s a conversation about passion and the power of community.

🎧 Tune in and get inspired by the story of Packa’s Place!