When Doug Becomes the Guest, Hosted By Mike McVay

This week on The American Family Farmer, the tables were turned as longtime host Doug Stephan stepped into the guest seat to share the story of his beloved Eastleigh Farm in Framingham, Massachusetts. Joining him as interviewer was his close friend and Radio Hall of Fame inductee Mike McVay of McVay Media, creating a warm, insightful conversation rooted in friendship, farming, and preservation.

Doug reflected on his lifelong connection to agriculture, tracing his love of farming back to his childhood growing up in the neighborhood surrounding Eastleigh Farm. He shared how those early experiences shaped not only his personal values but also his commitment to preserving farmland at a time when open space across New England has increasingly been lost to development.

The conversation explored the rich and fascinating history of Eastleigh Farm, which spans more than a century and sits on land farmed for over 250 years. From its early 1900s origins and unique ties to the Beebe family, to its later preservation as protected open space, Eastleigh Farm has continually evolved while remaining a cornerstone of the Framingham community. Doug discussed his 2002 decision to purchase the property to prevent development and ensure agriculture could continue on the land he loved.

We also learn about the farm’s modern transformation—from a traditional dairy operation to a cow sanctuary and educational farm. Doug explained the difficult decision to step away from raw milk production and how that pivotal moment led him to “think outside the box” to keep the farm viable. Today, Eastleigh Farm is a vibrant animal sanctuary and community destination, featuring artisan shops, family events, historic barns, and seasonal favorites like the iconic Moo Bus ice cream.

Mike and Doug wrapped up the episode by discussing the realities of day-to-day life on the farm, from the intensity of peak season to the quieter rhythms of the off-season, and the year-round care required for cows and other animals. At its heart, this episode is a story about stewardship—of land, history, animals, and community—and a powerful reminder of why family farms matter now more than ever. To learn more about Doug Stephan, Eastleigh Farm, and The American Family Farmer, visit dougstephan.com/americanfamilyfarmer.

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