MONTGOMERY, Ala. – From grimy days cleaning out chicken houses to sweet Sundays dishing up lunch in her Cullman County farmhouse, Lisa Lake is familiar with the duality of farm life.
She’s ready to bring that transparency to the table while chairing the Alabama Farmers Federation State Women’s Leadership Committee (WLC).
“I feel like we need to get back to being real and not put on a facade,” Lake said. “Farm life is messy and hard. Sometimes, I wonder why we do this. Other days, I would not stop farming for a million dollars. There is hardship, but there is also joy.”
A pragmatic go-getter, Lake said she hopes to encourage fellow female farmers.
“If a woman has to work off the farm, embrace that,” said Lake, who raises poultry and cattle in Battleground with husband Steve. “If you’re carrying your family’s insurance, that’s huge. There’s a season for everything. You’re doing what’s best for your family — whatever it takes to make your boat float.”
Lake’s reality check is refreshing in a world of highlight reels shared on social media.
It’s also honesty earned through experience.
In addition to duties as a mom of three, Lake left the farm twice daily to drive a school bus, a critical job that afforded health insurance. She’s directed Vacation Bible School, taught Bible studies, operated a screen-print shop and worked retail.
“I’ve always done what I needed to for our family,” Lake said. “I just like learning new things and trying something different.”
Kim Earwood has had a front-row seat to Lake’s yearslong knack as a jack of all trades. A former 4-H agent, Earwood met the Lakes through livestock shows — and the many T-shirt orders Lake filled for events.
They’ve rekindled a relationship through Earwood’s role as the Federation Women’s Leadership Division director, where she implements programming for the State WLC. Projects throughout 2026 include Ag in the Classroom, Book of the Year presentations and contests that celebrate members’ creativity.
“All members of the State WLC are excited to continue the momentum of doing all they can for Alabama agriculture under Lisa’s leadership and can-do attitude,” Earwood said. “Lisa likes to get things done, and our committee truly listens to what WLC members across the state request. They are all willing to offer innovative projects and events to create a welcome balance of opportunity among everyone. We look forward to a fantastic year!”
The group is continuing its successful web store, too. Lake sparked the idea for the shop, which offers farm-themed apparel with proceeds benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities. At events, WLC members proudly don cotton-blend T-shirts, which share messages about faith, family and farming. The eye-catching shirts build camaraderie, Lake added.
Lake said she hopes to foster understanding between homesteaders and commercial farmers, who both prioritize land stewardship while providing for loved ones.
“I’d like to bridge that gap,” Lake said. “We can all be friends and work together to teach people about where their food comes from.”
She and Steve imparted those lessons to their children, Heath, Emily and Ethan, and are sharing the good news of farming with the next generation — Kiah, Bryn, Evie Jane, Audrey Kate and Jude.
The clan often gathers to break bread following Sunday worship, peppering conversation with questions, laughter and life updates.
Lake will bring her flair for hospitality and warmth to Montgomery, where she’ll represent women across Alabama during monthly Federation and Alfa Insurance board meetings.
While Lake said the board room is intimidating, she’s also confident in the kindness and integrity of her fellow board members, many she met when Steve was a district director.
“Farmers are very conservative. Often, they don’t live large, even if they could. We’re too practical,” Lake said. “You do what it takes. We’ve scratched and worked. I’m not afraid of trying anything.”
