Taking on the Barons

Austin Frerick, a seventh-generation Iowan, is on a mission to address monopolistic practices in the American food industry, which he believes are detrimental to family farmers and consumers alike. Formerly a farm kid, Frerick has since dedicated nearly two decades to studying agricultural, tax, and antitrust policies. His book, Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America’s Food Industry, identifies seven types of "barons" who dominate various sectors, from hogs to groceries, using aggressive strategies to concentrate power. Frerick argues that these monopolies harm smaller farmers and limit choices for consumers, and he advocates for local food sources, especially for school districts, to support regional agriculture. His mission is also personal; he wants to reclaim some of what he remembers Iowa farms once offered. His goal is to raise awareness and inspire change to restore opportunities for family farmers, questioning, "How did we get to this point?"