Meredith Corp. and Learfield Communications, Inc., create a joint venture to serve the rural lifestyle market.

Meredith Corp. and Learfield Communications, Inc., create a joint venture to serve the rural lifestyle market.

Learfield is purchasing an ownership stake in the Living the Country Life brand which will be managed jointly by the two companies under the name Living the Country Life LLC. Meredith will maintain controlling interest in the new company.

The new business will combine Living the Country Life's current products with a nationally syndicated radio program and a greatly enhanced Web presence. Also, the magazine will increase its frequency of publication.

Meredith's Julie Schwalbe will lead the group as GM and have responsibility for all parts of the business. Betsy Freese will serve as Editor-in-Chief of the joint venture and oversee all content operations for print, television, radio and the Internet.