AGvocate speaker available for farming, ag and agritourism conferences, expos and panels.
Presentations include goat care and husbandry, Michigan farmer rights, farm marketing, agriculture and agritourism advocacy.
​
FORMER SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
-
Spring Arbor University - Woman's Leadership Conference
-
MSU Extension Kent County - Staff Day Workshop Training
-
Ada Bible Church - Women's Ministry Thrive Night Speaker
-
Hook A Sister Up - Women Who Write Author Showcase
Want to book a speaking engagement? Click the button below!
AGvocate SPEAKING FEE
$500 Per Presentation Topic
Presentations include a 50 minute speaking topic, PowerPoint, digital participant handout file, Q & A after presentation and photo opportunity with event attendees. Complimentary storybook signing available by request. Presentations are virtual or in-person. Travel fee of $1.50 per mile in Michigan. If needed, overnight accommodations, car rental and/or airfare billed to event host. Speaking disclaimer, Nicole Zaagman is not a veterinary technician, veterinarian or lawyer. Please always obtain expert advice and services regarding your specific needs in care of livestock from a licensed veterinary professional and legal counsel from a practicing attorney.
SPEAKING TOPICS
​
Goat Care 101 Thinking about owning goats or are you a new goat parent? This presentation is perfect for those just starting out with any breed of goat. Learn goat care basics from nutrition, routine care and common ailments and remedies.
​
Goat Husbandry Want to get into goat breeding and husbandry? This presentation is geared towards those interested in good breeding practices and learning what to expect when your goat is expecting, kidding signs and when to assist.
​
Goat Critical Care What can go wrong often does go wrong in the life of goat ownership. Topics include wound care, emergency veterinary intervention, C-sections, impending illness symptoms and signs and unexpected health complications.
​
JOY In Adversity What does it take to persevere in the midst of grief? Joy! A fruit of the spirit only possible in the midst of the impossible with Jesus Christ. When facing unbearable adversity, learn how to lean into the One who gifts everlasting peace.
​
Storybook Publishing Designed for authors interested in self-publishing their children's storybook. Topics include hiring editors, designers and illustrators, copywrite, title and ISBN registration, printing, book signings, marketing and book sales.
​
Farmer Rights For new and beginning farmers who want to understand the Michigan Right to Farm Act and programs and organizations that exist to support their farming efforts. Learn best practices and creative ways to set a farm up for success.
​
Farm Marketing Being a farmer requires juggling many tasks and skillsets, marketing included. In a technology and social media driven world, learn how to leverage a marketing plan that works for you and your farm that yields tangible results.
​
Agritourism Advocacy For farms adding agritourism to operations and Michigan municipalities interested in supporting farmers in their townships. Topics include zoning ordinances and effective communication for agriculture advocacy.
​
Agritourism Diversification Learn innovative ways to diversify farm profits with offerings such as overnight farm stays, farm education programs and farm tours. Leave inspired to grow your farm into a one-of-a-kind agritourism destination.
​
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:
-
Life Coach Certificate - IAP Career College 2023
-
1 year HS teaching experience with Foursquare Community
-
9 years of marketing and coaching experience 2014 - present
-
4 years of event planning and public speaking experience 2015 - 2018
-
Hosted a weekly radio show interviewing entrepreneurs 2014 - 2015
-
2 years of equine therapy (EAGALA model) work and volunteer experience
-
2 years of art activity volunteer experience with Artists Creating Together
-
Formerly certified dog-handler therapy team with West MI Therapy Dogs
-
15 years of graphic and website design and creative consulting experience
-
Former corporate positions: Gordon Food Service and MLive Media Group
-
Bachelor's of Arts Degree (graphic design) - Spring Arbor University 2009
-
Graphic Design Certificate - Kent Skills Career and Technical Center 2006
-
10 years raising and showing livestock with 4-H locally and at the state level
-
Follower of Jesus Christ, using biblical principles and prayer if desired
​
Member of the Michigan Farm Bureau
Member of the American Goat Society
Member of the National Pygmy Goat Association
Member of the International Organization of Professional Life Coaches
Member of the Michigan Agritourism Association
TESTIMONIALS
Takeaway: being more intentional in regards to daily routine and address people personally first before diving into talking about business matters.
WORKSHOP CLIENT
I learned to know in order to find fulfillment, I have to do what makes me happy and to do it. This is a workshop you should attend.
WORKSHOP CLIENT
So glad I was able to hear Nicole speak. She made me feel like I had real purpose and helped us understand that you are not too old or too young, not too messy. It doesn’t matter because God can use us. He can use our gifts towards His purpose so we have a reason for getting up in the morning and to impact others.
EVENT ATTENDEE
I loved Nicole’s use of an acronym because it helps attendees remember what was taught. I thought her presentation was very good. When she spoke about life's uncertainties and you wonder where God is in it, she illustrated you can really lean on Him. She encouraged us through scripture that He uses everything. Whether bad or good, He works it together for a purpose.