It’s no surprise that running an organic farming operation is tough work. But for organic consultant Atina Diffley, these challenges made made her stronger. In her new book, Turn Here Sweet Corn, Organic Farming Works (2012, Minnesota Press), Diffley outlines her personal struggles, and describes how the pursuit of farming helped her overcome hardships.

After escaping an abusive marriage, Atina found Martin Diffley, a fourth generation farmer who staunchly supported sustainable farming, and was a leader in the community even when the term “organic” was relatively unknown.

“We had a roadside stand, and people really came in originally because it was local and fresh, and was convenient,” Diffley explains in an interview with Organic Connections. “Every customer had to be educated. Our sign said 'organic', but I didn't talk about it. Usually three or four visits in they’d say, ‘You know, this is the best food I’ve ever eaten! What do you do?’ Then we’d have the whole summer to talk about it.”

Read more in Organic Connections.