Enriching Land and Empowering the Women Who Care for It
Kathy Frisch’s Journey
Kathy (right) evaluating soil cover.
Leaving behind a successful career in technology, Kathy embraced the call of the land, driven by a deep-seated love for nutrient-dense, traditional foods. Starting with a humble homestead and the challenging task of homeschooling her daughters, she expanded her vision to managing a 250-acre ranch in Texas and mentoring other women involved in agriculture.
Kathy’s inspiration to work with animals and agriculture emerged at age 40, when concerns about her family’s health motivated her to seek better nutrition.
“I wanted to provide high-quality food and address health issues at their root,” Kathy explains. This drive led her to Holistic Management® and a complete career shift from technology to agriculture.
Kathy's award-winning eggs, pictured at the 2012 Texas State Fair.
Her teaching approach focuses on hands-on learning and family involvement, which she believes are crucial for success. “With adults, the emphasis is on understanding their starting point and offering a client-directed experience,” she notes, highlighting the importance of engaging everyone in the learning process.
Kathy, pictured with her first dairy cow.
Kathy’s admiration for Amber and her vision for Women in Ranching led her to become involved in the organization. She values the holistic approach that combines education with personal development.
“Yellowstone offers a unique opportunity to create a space where women can connect deeply and grow both professionally and personally,” she says.
In her work with Women In Ranching, Kathy aims to showcase the producer’s efforts and foster an environment where women can connect with themselves, the land, and other women. She focuses on exploring themes of identity and empowerment, helping attendees clarify their niche and find fulfillment in their roles.
Effective communication, particularly nonviolent or compassionate communication, is a key element of Kathy’s approach.
Kathy pictured with an Urban Farmer Class she facilitated.
“It involves understanding and addressing both personal and others’ needs, which can transform conflict into creative collaborative solutions,” she says, emphasizing the transformative power of effective communication.
While technical aspects like soil health, livestock handling, and grazing management are important, Kathy’s core mission is to empower and support people who are deeply rooted in the land.
“The grounding effect of this connection with the land supports the interpersonal work I value most,” she says.
Through her dedication to Holistic Management and empowering women, Kathy not only nurtures the land but also inspires a more resilient and connected community of women who steward it. Her work stands as a testament to the power of combining agricultural expertise with genuine human connection.
Kids playing on a cart at Kathy’s ranch.
Don’t miss the chance to join Kathy at our upcoming Yellowstone Circle Gathering!