American Family Farmer

On this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) is joined by Amy Holmes of Holmesteading Farm for a conversation about modern homesteading, sustainable living, and reconnecting people with agriculture. Amy shares her journey into homesteading and explains how her farm has become a place where visitors can experience firsthand the value of growing food, caring for animals, and developing practical skills that foster greater self-sufficiency. She discusses how today's homesteading movement is inspiring families to embrace a simpler, more intentional lifestyle while strengthening their connection to the land. The conversation highlights the importance of farm education and community engagement, with Amy describing how hands-on learning experiences help people of all ages better understand where their food comes from and the work that goes into producing it. Doug and Amy also explore the growing popularity of agritourism, discussing how activities such as goat yoga, farm tours, and educational events create meaningful opportunities for the public to connect with agriculture while providing farms with valuable sources of supplemental income.Throughout the episode, Amy emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional farming skills and passing them on to future generations, demonstrating how practical knowledge—from gardening and animal care to food preservation—can help build resilience and confidence in an increasingly fast-paced world. Together, Doug and Amy discuss how immersive farm experiences encourage sustainable living, strengthen local communities, and inspire more people to appreciate the vital role family farms play in everyday life. For more on the American Family Farmer…Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.comSocial Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) examines some of the most significant challenges and opportunities facing today’s farming community. The conversation takes a closer look at several important legal, legislative, and economic developments affecting family farmers across the country. The discussion begins with proposed legislation in Oregon related to animal husbandry practices and what those changes could mean for livestock producers and agricultural operations. Doug also explores the impact of recent legal rulings involving seed patents, highlighting how intellectual property laws continue to influence farmers' rights, seed availability, and long-term agricultural independence. The episode addresses the growing challenge of rising production costs driven by global supply chain disruptions, including increased expenses for equipment, fuel, fertilizer, and other essential farm inputs. Doug explains how these economic pressures are affecting farm profitability and management decisions across multiple sectors of agriculture. He also discusses the role of the U.S. Supreme Court in pesticide-related lawsuits and the broader implications these cases may have for farmers, manufacturers, and future agricultural policy.In addition to policy and legal updates, Doug shares information on weight management strategies involving Calotren and the importance of maintaining health and wellness within the farming community. The episode concludes with a look at current market trends and agricultural policy updates, offering listeners valuable insight into the issues shaping the future of American family farming and the decisions producers must navigate in an increasingly complex agricultural landscape. Key takeaways from the episode include the potential impact of proposed Oregon legislation that could restrict or criminalize routine animal husbandry practices relied upon by livestock producers. Doug also explains that while the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling involving Roundup affects legal liability and product warning requirements, it should not be interpreted as a determination of the product's safety. The discussion reinforces that rising costs for seed, fertilizer, fuel, and other farm inputs continue to place significant financial pressure on family farms, while ongoing legal disputes over seed patents and the influence of large agricultural companies raise important questions about farmer autonomy and increasing production costs.Finally, Doug emphasizes the importance of understanding the Farm Bill and other agricultural policies so farmers and consumers alike can advocate for legislation that supports the long-term success of America's family farms. For more on the American Family Farmer…Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.comSocial Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) is joined by Amy Hartshorn of Hartshorn Organic Farm for a conversation about organic agriculture, food quality, and the connection between farming and human health. Amy shares insights into the rewards and challenges of organic farming, explaining the commitment, labor, and stewardship required to produce food without relying on conventional synthetic chemicals. She discusses how organic practices can benefit soil health, environmental sustainability, and the quality of the food reaching consumers' tables.The discussion also explores the complex issue of food pricing and the economic realities facing both farmers and consumers. Amy explains why organic foods often carry higher price tags, the challenges small farms face in remaining profitable, and the factors that influence food costs throughout the supply chain. Doug and Amy examine the importance of supporting local farmers and strengthening regional food systems, highlighting how consumer purchasing decisions can have a direct impact on the success and sustainability of family farms.Listeners will also hear a thoughtful discussion about the role of government in agriculture, including policies and programs that affect farmers' ability to compete and thrive in today's marketplace. The episode concludes with practical advice on healthy eating, food preparation, and making informed choices about the foods we consume. Together, the conversation provides valuable insight into the importance of sustainable agriculture, supporting local farms, and building a healthier food system for future generations.For more on the American Family Farmer…Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.comSocial Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) examines some of the most significant challenges and opportunities facing today’s farming community. The conversation examines several of the pressing issues impacting small and family farms across the country. The conversation explores the growing threat posed by invasive species, including the spotted lantern fly and the screw worm, and the challenges these pests create for crops, livestock, and agricultural productivity. Doug discusses both traditional and innovative approaches to pest management, highlighting the role of natural pest control methods and the importance of maintaining ecological balance on the farm.The episode also takes a closer look at government policies affecting agriculture, including concerns surrounding USDA program delays, reductions in research funding, and the broader impact policy decisions can have on farmers' ability to remain competitive and profitable. Doug explores how these changes influence agricultural innovation, farm management, and the long-term sustainability of the industry.Listeners will also hear about sustainable farming practices, including organic production methods and the use of beneficial wildlife—such as bats—to help control insect populations naturally. The discussion highlights the economic challenges facing family farmers, from beef supply concerns and market pressures to the influence of policy decisions on production costs and profitability. In addition, Doug examines changing consumer perceptions of agriculture and dairy production, along with trends shaping the future of the dairy industry. Together, these topics provide an informative look at the opportunities, obstacles, and ongoing resilience of America's family farmers.For more on the American Family Farmer…Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.comSocial Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com)  welcomes Laura Brittingham of Brittingham Farms in Delaware for a conversation about the evolving realities of modern farming and the importance of preserving family agricultural traditions. Laura shares her unique path from a career in medical device sales to helping lead her family's fourth-generation farm, offering insight into the rewards and challenges of returning to agriculture.The discussion explores the growing pressures of urban expansion in Delaware and how rising development has affected farmland valuation and the future of family-owned farms. Laura also discusses the farm’s successful diversification efforts, including the addition of lavender production and agritourism experiences that help create new revenue streams while connecting the public with agriculture.Throughout the episode, Laura reflects on the vital role family and community play in sustaining agricultural operations across generations. She shares the challenges faced by long-standing farm families as they balance tradition, economic realities, and changing consumer interests while working to preserve their land and agricultural heritage. This inspiring conversation highlights the resilience, adaptability, and community spirit that continue to define American farming. For more on the American Family Farmer…Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.comSocial Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) examines some of the most significant challenges and opportunities facing today’s farming community. The conversation explores several important developments shaping the future of agriculture, from legislative updates to emerging threats facing farmers and livestock producers. The discussion begins with an overview of the latest Farm Bill developments and the legislative process, examining how policy decisions in Washington can influence food production, farm profitability, and the long-term sustainability of American agriculture.Doug also highlights growing concerns surrounding agricultural threats, including the spread of bird flu strains such as H9N2 and the continued expansion of the Asian Longhorn tick, both of which pose challenges for animal health and farm operations. The episode explores innovative approaches to pest management, including efforts to control agricultural pests through techniques such as sterilizing flies and managing destructive mite populations.In addition, the conversation emphasizes the importance of soil health and regenerative farming practices as key components of sustainable food production and environmental stewardship. Doug also examines the ongoing discussion around weight-loss solutions, comparing natural supplement-based approaches with pharmaceutical options and their broader health implications. Throughout the program, listeners gain valuable insight into how farm policies, biosecurity concerns, agricultural innovation, and health trends intersect to influence food security, farmer resilience, and the future of American farming.For more on the American Family Farmer…Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.comSocial Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) welcomes Jim Gerritsen, founder of Wood Prairie Family Farm, for a conversation about organic farming, seed integrity, and the future of America’s small family farms.Founded in 1976 in northern Maine, Wood Prairie Family Farm has become nationally recognized for its certified organic seed potatoes and decades-long commitment to sustainable agriculture. Gerritsen shares how the family farm built a successful direct-to-consumer business while prioritizing soil health, crop rotation, and regenerative farming practices long before they became mainstream topics in agriculture.The discussion also explores the growing challenges facing independent farmers, including consolidation in agriculture, genetically engineered seed contamination, and the fight to preserve farmer independence and organic integrity. As president of the Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association, Gerritsen reflects on his advocacy work protecting family farms and why seed sovereignty remains critical to the future of food production.From organic innovation to environmental stewardship, this episode highlights the values, resilience, and long-term thinking that continue to define America’s family farms.You can learn more about Wood Prairie Farm on www.woodprairie.com. For more on the American Family Farmer…Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.comSocial Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) shares the biggest news affecting smaller family farmers, starting with the Farm Bill. The House is working on another draft Farm Bill, continuing with the hold up. Additionally, the U.S. House passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (H.R. 8467) on April 30, 2026, with a 224-200 bipartisan vote, advancing a new five-year farm bill that strengthens crop insurance, raises commodity reference prices, and reauthorizes USDA programs through 2031. The bill now faces a difficult path in the Senate, where it needs 60 votes to overcome a filibuster. The Farm Bill also contains significant changes to SNAP (food assistance), which has been a major point of debate, with many questioning why this is even included on this bill at all. Moving along, a new study suggests people living in areas with heavy pesticide use face significantly higher risk of cancer. The research suggests that combinations of pesticides, even those considered safe individually, can act together to damage cells, suggesting environmental exposure is a major, previously underestimated factor in cancer rates. Regions with high agricultural activity, specifically the US Midwest, showed significantly higher cancer incidence, with some estimates suggesting risks comparable to or higher than smoking for certain cancers. The study found that "pesticide cocktails"—combinations of chemicals (like Glyphosate, Atrazine, and [Dicamba])—multiply cancer risk, rather than any single chemical acting alone. Even pesticides deemed "non-carcinogenic" individually by regulatory standards appear to contribute to cancer risk when combined in the environment. Researchers identified that these mixtures can disrupt liver cells—a primary detoxification organ—years before a cancer diagnosis. The study linked higher exposure to increased rates of leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and cancers of the bladder, colon, lung, and pancreas. In case you missed it, May is Mental Health Month. The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Farm State of Mind campaign, supported by the Farm State of Mind Alliance formed in 2025, works to reduce mental health stigma and increase access to resources for farmers and ranchers. The initiative provides a national directory, free counseling, and training to support mental wellness in rural communities. Founded by AFBF, National Farmers Union, National 4-H Council, and Farm Foundation, the Alliance brings together trusted voices to make, “It’s okay not to be okay,” a standard in agricultural communities. The campaign utilizes initiatives like farm-focused mental health articles in magazines and on TV. The campaign emphasizes May as Mental Health Awareness Month to reach out to neighbors in the agricultural community.For more on the American Family Farmer…Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.comSocial Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) welcomes Kristy Meyer of the National FFA Organization for a conversation about the future of agriculture—and the young leaders shaping it.Founded in 1928, the National FFA Organization has grown into one of the largest youth leadership groups in the country, now serving more than one million students nationwide. Meyer shares how FFA has evolved beyond its roots as Future Farmers of America to reflect the full scope of modern agriculture, including science, technology, sustainability, and global food systems.As Communications Manager, Meyer plays a key role in amplifying the stories and successes of FFA members. She discusses how the organization prepares students for over 300 career paths through its unique model combining classroom learning, hands-on agricultural experiences, and leadership development.Doug and Kristy also explore the importance of agricultural education in everyday life, from the food we eat to the clothes we wear, and how FFA is building the next generation of leaders who will help feed, fuel, and clothe the world.The FFA is cultivating confidence, character, and career readiness in young people across America, and its mission is more relevant today than ever.Learn more of AFF.org.  Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) shares the biggest news affecting family farmers, starting with facts of the Iran war, how it’s impacting agriculture, how it’s impacting your life, and how it’s impacting energy and the cost of things, specifically fertilizer. Right now, the cost of fertilizer is $700 per ton. The last time Doug bought fertilizer by the ton, the cost was around $250 per ton. Now, $700 per ton. One more time . . .   $700 PER TON. Additionally, the oil costs are driving up farm expenses, gasoline prices are averaging over $4 a gallon, diesel fuel prices are averaging nearly $6 a gallon, and immediate oil prices (the crude coming out of the ground) is averaging $100+ per barrel. Moving on, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a $115 million investment across eight states to expand timber production, enhance forest health, and reduce wildfire risks. Funded through the Timber Production and Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program (TPEP), this initiative supports sawmills and wood processing facilities to boost domestic production by 25%. Lastly, Doug addresses the news that the U.S. Supreme Court is reviewing a major appeal from Bayer-owned Monsanto, which seeks to throw out thousands of lawsuits claiming its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer. If the Supreme Court rules in favor of Monsanto, it could effectively terminate thousands of active lawsuits that argue for stricter, state-mandated cancer warnings. If the ruling favors the plaintiffs, it could significantly increase the legal liabilities for the company.Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this episode of American Family Farmer, host and American family farmer Doug Stephan welcomes Jeff Winton, Founder and Chairman of Rural Minds, for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about mental health in rural America. Drawing from his own upbringing on a dairy farm in upstate New York, Jeff shares how the unique challenges faced by farming and rural communities—like isolation, limited access to care, financial stress, and a culture of self-reliance—can make addressing mental health especially difficult. He explains how these barriers have contributed to a critical gap in support for the more than 46 million people living in rural areas across the country.Jeff opens up about the heartbreaking loss of his nephew in 2012, a turning point that led him to found Rural Minds and dedicate his life to breaking the silence and stigma surrounding mental illness in agricultural communities. Through advocacy, education, and storytelling, Rural Minds is working to ensure that farmers, ranchers, and rural families have access to the resources and support they need. Doug and Jeff discuss the importance of normalizing conversations around mental health, the role of community in healing, and why addressing mental wellness is just as essential as physical health in sustaining the future of American agriculture.Learn more on RuralMinds.org.Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan www.eastleighfarm.com shares the biggest news affecting family farmers, starting with news the USDA is seeking to raise $30 Billion dollars in borrowing limits for farmers in America needing assistance. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins is urging Congress to raise the $30 billion borrowing limit of the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC), arguing the 30-year-old cap is insufficient for modern agricultural needs, rising costs, and new commitments. She testified that the CCC is "overcommitted" due to new farm subsidies, necessitating higher funding capacity.In other news, the Massachusetts Senate unanimously passed S.3029, known as the FARM Bill (An Act fostering agricultural resilience in Massachusetts). This comprehensive legislation aims to stabilize the state's 7,000 farms, expand food access, and modernize agriculture by easing zoning for agritourism, codifying the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), and establishing a “Next Generation Farmer” program. Key Aspects of this FARM Bill include:Agritourism Promotion: The bill supports farms by easing local zoning restrictions on activities like pick-your-own operations, corn mazes, and farm-to-table events, aiding in income diversification.Food Access & Security: It formally codifies the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) into state law, making it easier for SNAP recipients to purchase fresh, local produce while bolstering farm income.Next Generation Farmers: Creates a $3 million initiative to support new, young, and underrepresented farmers, including immigrants and veterans.Modernization & Sustainability: Establishes a statewide agricultural land database, allows for the transfer of water management permits for cranberry growers, and provides tax exemptions for new agricultural buildings.Climate and Economic Resilience: The bill responds to climate change threats and ensures the longevity of Massachusetts' agricultural sector. Lastly, Doug opines issues near and dear to the small family farmers. Specifically glyphosate. Is this an all or nothing fight? There is the thought process that it needs to be used, but it’s also causing potential harm to consumers. The companies putting out these products are already trying to get liability protection so that, if/when people get sick and die, they won’t have people coming after them with which the way Bayer dealt. You can hear more about Doug’s thoughts with Glyphosate in a previous American Family Farmer episode: “Glyphosate and Chemical-Dependent Farming Practices.”Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks