FVC and Franklin!
This month we had the opportunity to attend the Farmer Veteran Coalition Conference. JT, a proud Navy veteran, was especially drawn to this event since the organization focuses on helping veterans transition into the farming world.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect going in—but from the very first farm tour to the final breakout session, we were blown away by how much we learned. The sessions covered everything from regenerative farming and its importance for soil health, to medicinal herbs and their role in supporting wellness.
But the biggest takeaway? Resilience.
Everywhere we turned, people were sharing stories of lessons learned—about setbacks, recovery, and the persistence it takes to keep going, both on and off the farm. It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many others on the same journey, asking the same questions, and working hard to build their farm dreams. To our surprise, about half the attendees were just like us—getting started and still balancing full-time jobs while nurturing their agricultural vision.
Meet Franklin the Fungi
My favorite souvenir from the conference wasn’t a tote bag or brochure—it was a mushroom block. During a breakout session on mycology, the instructor cheerfully announced, “I have a truck bed full of mushroom blocks for anyone who wants to get started!” And she wasn’t exaggerating—there must have been over a hundred of them piled high, each about the size of a cinder block.
Naturally, I grabbed one. Then came the real question: Would this thing fit in my carry-on? And, more importantly, Would TSA even let me through with it?
A quick Google search said it “should” be fine—but I wasn’t feeling lucky. So instead, we stopped by a UPS Store and shipped our new fungal friend home to North Carolina. The clerk was delighted to meet “Franklin the Fungi” and said we’d made his day a little more interesting.
Three days later, Franklin arrived safe and sound—ready for a fresh water bath and a second chance at life. If he thrives, great! And if not, he’ll still return to the soil and serve a purpose in our compost.
We left the conference full of ideas, inspiration, and gratitude. It was a reminder that farming—like life—isn’t about perfection; it’s about growth, learning, and connection.
We’re already counting down the days until next year’s conference!
