Beyond The Crops

In this episode of Beyond the Crops, we're sharing everything that's been happening behind the scenes. From county fair adventures and first-year 4-H lessons to pregnancy updates and navigating one of the biggest challenges our family has ever faced, this conversation feels like catching up with friends on the front porch.Jena shares how her sons confidence is growing through 4-H, why county fairs teach so much more than showing animals, and where things currently stand with their family's unexpected home situation. We also talk about building a temporary home, learning to let go of possessions, and the ways God continues to teach us about contentment in difficult seasons.Plus, we debate one very important question: Should you find out your baby's gender before birth—or wait for the surprise?If you've ever felt like life took a turn you didn't expect, this episode is a reminder that even in uncertain seasons, God is still writing the story.In this episode, we discuss: Summer updates from the farm  Jena's first "real" year as a 4-H mom  Lessons learned from county fair week  Bucket calves, showmanship, and raising farm kids  Pregnancy updates and whether to find out baby's gender  An update on Jena's home and building plans  Learning contentment through unexpected loss  Why slowing down before making big decisions matters  Trusting God through uncertainty  Finding hope while you're still in the middle of the story Whether you're hauling kids to the county fair, checking cattle, or enjoying a quiet drive down a gravel road, we're so glad you're here.If today's conversation encouraged you, we'd love for you to leave a review and share this episode with another farm wife who could use a little encouragement.🙌 Join the Conversation!Tag us or send us a DM @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this honest and relatable episode, Jena and Mary Pat take a walk down memory lane as they reflect on all the things they swore they'd never do as moms... only to find themselves doing exactly that.From homeschooling and reading every food label to becoming stay-at-home moms after planning ambitious careers, this conversation is full of laughter, humility, and reminders that motherhood has a way of changing us in the very best ways. They also reflect on the sacrifices their own parents made, the wisdom they now understand as adults, and how becoming mothers has given them a whole new appreciation for family, faith, and raising the next generation.If you've ever caught yourself saying, "I sound just like my mom," this episode is for you.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ The biggest "I'll never..." moments that motherhood completely changed✅ Why both Jena and Mary Pat took unexpected paths into homeschooling✅ How becoming parents changed their views on health, food, and raising children✅ Career dreams vs. the reality of motherhood✅ Learning to appreciate the sacrifices our own parents made✅ Funny moments when they realized they had become their mothers✅ Parenting firstborns versus younger siblings✅ The importance of giving yourself grace as a mom✅ What they would tell their younger, pre-mom selves today💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Motherhood has a way of reshaping your priorities in ways you never expect.✨ Never say never—life has a funny way of changing your perspective.✨ You don't fully understand your parents' sacrifices until you become one yourself.✨ Every family looks different, and there isn't one "right" way to raise children.✨ Motherhood is both deeply refining and incredibly rewarding.✨ Grace—for yourself, your kids, and your journey—is one of the greatest gifts you can give.✨ Sometimes the life you never planned becomes the one you wouldn't trade for anything.Whether you're raising toddlers, teenagers, or somewhere in between, we hope this episode reminds you that you're not alone. Motherhood is messy, beautiful, humbling, and constantly teaching us lessons we never saw coming. We'd love to hear what you once swore you'd never do... only to find yourself doing today!🙌 Join the Conversation!Come share your own "I said I'd never..." moments with us! Tag us or send us a DM @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this episode, we're diving into one of the most requested topics we've ever covered: mold illness and the surprising ways our homes can impact our health.Joining us is functional medicine practitioner Keri Anania, who helps us unpack the connection between mold exposure, chronic inflammation, nervous system dysregulation, and the symptoms so many people struggle to explain. Along the way, we share pieces of Jena's family's ongoing mold journey, what we've learned, and why finding answers—while overwhelming—can also be incredibly empowering.If you've been dealing with unexplained fatigue, anxiety, brain fog, recurring illness, hormone imbalances, or simply feel like something is "off," this conversation will give you practical tools, hope, and a reminder that healing is possible.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ What mold illness and mycotoxins actually are✅ The signs and symptoms of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)✅ Why some people are more sensitive to mold than others✅ How chronic stress and an overwhelmed nervous system can keep the body stuck in survival mode✅ The connection between mold, gut health, hormones, acne, candida, and chronic inflammation✅ Why slowing down, prioritizing sleep, and helping your body feel safe are essential parts of healing✅ The difference between dust testing, urine testing, and when each may (or may not) be necessary✅ What to know before remediating mold—and why rushing the process can create bigger problems✅ Why not every positive mold test means you have to leave your home✅ Practical first steps if you suspect mold could be affecting your family's health💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Healing is rarely about finding one "magic fix"—it's about addressing the whole picture.✨ Your nervous system needs to feel safe before your body can fully heal.✨ Small daily habits like quality sleep, time outside, deep breathing, gratitude, and slowing down can have a profound impact on your health.✨ Knowledge is power. Test, don't guess.✨ Every mold situation is different, and there is hope—even if the journey feels overwhelming.✨ Investing in your health today can change the trajectory of your future.Whether mold ends up being part of your story or not, we hope this conversation encourages you to listen to your body, ask questions, and remember that healing is often a journey of small, faithful steps—not overnight transformation.Connect With Keri: Nebraska Functional Medicine Find her on Instagram🙌 Join the Conversation!You can connect with us and share your thoughts by tagging Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this heartfelt and high-energy episode, Jena and Mary Pat recap a weekend they’ll never forget—running a half-marathon together, hosting a big family birthday party, and reflecting on friendship, motherhood, faith, and what it means to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.From race-day nerves and matching patriotic outfits to the emotional finish line and a surprise pregnancy announcement, this episode is full of real-life moments, laughter, and powerful reminders about perseverance. The conversation also shifts into a meaningful reflection on the legacy of American agriculture, faith, freedom, and the incredible innovation that has shaped our country over the last 250 years.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Recapping the half-marathon: the highs, the struggles, and finishing together✅ Why training for hard things builds confidence in every area of life✅ Mary Pat’s birthday party chaos (including a tractor through the basement wall 😅)✅ Jena’s surprise announcement ✅ Celebrating America’s 250th birthday and reflecting on freedom✅ How agriculture shaped America—and continues to feed the world✅ The massive evolution of farming over the last 250 years✅ Why faith has always been deeply woven into farm life and rural communities✅ Raising kids, building strong families, and creating change from home💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Hard things are worth doing—even when the journey doesn’t look perfect.✨ Friendship makes the hard seasons lighter and the victories sweeter.✨ Your body is capable of more than you think.✨ Agriculture is one of America’s greatest untold success stories.✨ Innovation has transformed farming, but stewardship still matters.✨ Faith, family, and community remain the foundation of strong farms and strong nations.✨ Lasting change doesn’t start in politics—it starts in our homes.As we head into the 4th of July, we hope this episode reminds you to slow down, reflect, and celebrate the freedoms, faith, and families that make this life so meaningful.🙌 Join the Conversation!You can connect with us and share your thoughts by tagging Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this episode, Jena and Mary Pat cover everything from 4-H projects and half marathon plans to summer hosting chaos—but the heart of this conversation is a major life update Jena shares about her family’s ongoing mold journey.After receiving a 316-page inspection report, Jena and Levi are facing some incredibly difficult decisions about their home—whether to remediate, rebuild, or start over completely. What began as unexplained health struggles, behavioral symptoms, and chronic inflammation has uncovered a much bigger issue than they ever expected.Jena opens up about the physical, emotional, and financial toll this process has taken on their family, the surprising symptoms they’ve connected to mold exposure, and how they’re navigating uncertainty while trying to make the best decisions for their family’s future.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ How 4-H can be so much more than livestock and a valuable homeschool tool✅ Half marathon training, summer hosting, and preparing for a full house✅ What a full mold inspection actually looks like✅ The reality of toxic mold remediation and the hidden costs involved✅ How mold can impact physical health, mental health, and behavior✅ “Mold rage,” chronic inflammation, fatigue, food sensitivities, and nervous system dysregulation✅ The difficult decision between rebuilding, repairing, or walking away✅ What it looks like to trust God and seek discernment in overwhelming seasons💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Mold can show up in ways you’d never expect—from migraines and skin rashes to emotional regulation and chronic fatigue.✨ Sometimes the symptoms you normalize for years may actually have a deeper root cause.✨ Big life decisions rarely come with clear answers, and discernment often takes time.✨ Home is more than a structure—it holds memories, routines, and security, which makes hard decisions even heavier.✨ Even in overwhelming seasons, faith and forward movement can coexist.We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation beyond the podcast. If you’ve dealt with mold, chronic illness, or a season of uncertainty, we’d love to hear your story.🙌 Join the Conversation!You can connect with us and share your thoughts by tagging Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

In this episode of Beyond the Crops, Jena and Mary Pat catch up on all things summer — from marathon training and recovery wins to building intentional family bucket lists for the season ahead.MP shares an encouraging update on her healing journey and Jena celebrates a huge milestone in her half-marathon training with her first pain-free eight-mile run, and together they dive into the realities of race prep, heart rate training, recovery, and learning to trust their bodies.The conversation shifts into summer mode as they talk through family bucket lists, homeschooling freedom, fishing trips, library adventures, zoos, kayaking, gardening, county fairs, and all the little moments they want to prioritize before the season slips away.This episode is your reminder that summer doesn’t have to be packed full to be meaningful. Sometimes the best plans are the ones that leave room to breathe.In this episode, we cover:• MP's chiropractic update and possible root causes of dizziness• Jena's pain-free 8-mile training breakthrough• Half-marathon prep, heart rate training, and running mindset• Summer bucket list ideas for farm families• Homeschooling, libraries, and hands-on science fun• Zoo trips, fishing, kayaking, and family adventure days• Gardening, preserving sweet corn, and freeze-drying food• Funny farm-life mishaps with dogs and rendering lard• Prioritizing date nights and connection in busy seasons• Why simple summer memories often matter most🙌 Join the Conversation!What's on YOUR summer bucket list?  Send us a message or connect with us on social media—we love hearing from our listeners! You can connect with us and share your thoughts by tagging  @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

This week on Beyond the Crops, we're catching up on life lately. Jenna shares highlights from her family's trip to the Black Hills of South Dakota, including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Jewel Cave, and their experience staying at Under Canvas Mount Rushmore. From family road trip tips to underrated vacation destinations, this episode is packed with travel inspiration.Mary Pat also shares an update on her ongoing health journey, including new therapies she's pursuing, the frustrations of navigating chronic symptoms, and the importance of recognizing progress even when healing isn't linear. The conversation also touches on half marathon training, summer schedules, Vacation Bible School, and the power of setting boundaries that support your season of life.Whether you're in the tractor, on a run, or tackling chores around the farm, grab a cup of coffee and join us for this honest catch-up conversation.In This Episode✅ Mary Pat shares an update on her health journey and current treatment plans✅ The emotional challenges of navigating long-term health struggles✅ Why recognizing progress matters, even when you're not fully "healed"✅ Jenna recaps her family's trip to South Dakota's Black Hills✅ Highlights from Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Jewel Cave✅ Why South Dakota might be one of the most underrated family vacation destinations✅ Vacation Bible School, summer schedules, and setting healthy boundaries✅ Running goals, half marathon training, and learning to trust your body💡 Key Takeaways:✨ "Health is so freaking hard."✨ "A year ago I couldn't run the way I've been running now."✨ "Sometimes progress isn't being completely healed—it's recognizing how far you've already come."✨ "South Dakota is underrated. Let's keep it that way."🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you visited the Black Hills? What's your favorite family road trip destination? Send us a message or connect with us on social media—we love hearing from our listeners! You can connect with us and share your thoughts by tagging  @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this fun, start of summer episode, Jena and Mary Pat dive into the reality of balancing busy farm seasons with making intentional family memories. From summer travel plans and farm-life logistics to parenting reflections, boundaries around time off, and the bittersweet realization that we only get so many summers with our kids, this episode feels like a front porch conversation with friends who just get it.Jena shares details about an upcoming family trip to the Black Hills and why she’s become more intentional about booking vacations—even during busy seasons—while Mary Pat reflects on family systems, summer rhythms, and protecting time for what matters most. Together, they talk honestly about farm guilt, marriage dynamics, saying no to overcommitment, and creating meaningful summers without adding pressure.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ The “18 Summers” Perspective: Why the reminder that we only get so many summers with our kids feels both motivating and emotional—and how it’s shaping their priorities as moms.✅ Farm Life + Family Vacations: Can farm families really leave during busy seasons?✅ Summer Travel Plans & Family Adventures✅ Why Boundaries Matter on Family Farms✅ Saying “No” to Make Room for What Matters✅ Summer Joy in the Small Things✅ Family, Grief & Making Memories While We Can✅ Making Time for Yourself in Busy Seasons💡 Key Takeaways:✨ You don’t have to wait for the “perfect” time to make family memories. In farm life, there will always be one more thing to do—sometimes you just have to book the trip.✨ The farm will still be there when you get back. Taking time away isn’t selfish—it’s often exactly what your family (and marriage) needs.✨ Boundaries reduce resentment. Whether it’s scheduled time off, protected family time, or saying no to overcommitment, structure can create freedom.✨ The little moments matter most. Campfires, bike rides, fishing trips, camp weeks, gardening, and spontaneous lake days often become the memories kids remember forever.✨ You only get so many summers with your kids at home. Don’t wait for a tragedy or milestone to prioritize togetherness—create the memories now.✨ Summer doesn’t have to look Pinterest-perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes joy is found in slowing down, saying no, and protecting what matters most.We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation beyond the podcast. Send us a voice message and tell us what topics you’d love to hear next!🙌 Join the Conversation!What does summer look like for your family? Are you planning a trip, protecting slower rhythms, or creating special traditions with your kids? We’d love to hear what intentional summer looks like in your home. You can connect with us and share your thoughts by tagging Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this episode, Jena and Mary Pat sit down for a real conversation about homeschooling, motherhood, slowing down, and choosing a lifestyle that better aligns with their family values. From the chaos of rushed school mornings and planting season schedules to the freedom and challenges of creating a new normal, the two open up about why they chose homeschooling, what they hope it will bring to their families, and the lessons they’re learning along the way. Whether you homeschool, traditional school, or are simply craving more peace and intentionality in family life, this episode is a reminder that every family gets to define what works best for them.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Life Lately & Farm Season Check-In✅ Why We Chose Homeschooling: A candid conversation about the decision to homeschool and the deeper “why” behind it. Feeling like they were getting the “leftovers” of their kids after long school days.  The emotional toll of rushed mornings, exhausted afternoons, homework battles, and overstimulation.  Choosing more quality time, flexibility, and family connection over packed schedules and constant busyness.  Navigating farm life, entrepreneurship, and school schedules that often don’t align with agricultural life. ✅ The Hard Truth About Time & Family Priorities: How farming schedules and early August school start dates can make meaningful family time feel impossible.  The pressure of cramming summer fun into a shrinking calendar while balancing irrigation, spraying, and farm responsibilities.  Why both women realized they wanted more intentional, everyday moments with their children. ✅ The Lifestyle Shift of Homeschooling: Why homeschooling feels like more than an education choice—it’s a lifestyle decision.  The importance of flexibility, faith, slower mornings, and creating rhythms that actually work for farm families.  Balancing motherhood, business ownership, content creation, and teaching children at home. ✅ The Reality Check: Homeschooling Isn’t Always Easy Jena shares the “honeymoon phase” of homeschooling and the harder moments that followed.  Honest reflections on hard days, patience, frustration, and learning alongside your kids.  Why community, support systems, and leaning into faith matter during challenging seasons. ✅ Curriculum Talk & Homeschool Resources: Favorite curriculum options they’re exploring and using.  Thoughts on reading, math, and open-and-go homeschool programs.  Learning through farm life, real-world experiences, and everyday moments—not just textbooks. ✅ A Few Hot Takes on School Culture: Why achievement awards, homework, and busyness culture sparked bigger conversations around priorities.  Thoughts on sports schedules, packed calendars, and redefining success for their kids.  The reminder that every family gets to choose what works best for them—without judgment. 💡 Key Takeaways:✨ There is no “one right way” to educate your kids. Every family has different needs, priorities, schedules, and values—and what works for one family may not work for another.✨ Time matters. Sometimes the biggest parenting decisions come down to one simple question: How do we want to spend our time together?✨ Homeschooling is more than academics—it can be a lifestyle choice rooted in flexibility, faith, family connection, and freedom.✨ Hard days don’t mean you’re doing it wrong. Whether it’s homeschooling, traditional schooling, parenting, or farm life, growth often comes with challenges.✨ Community matters. Finding support from people walking a similar road can make difficult seasons feel far less lonely.✨ Success looks different for every child. Grades, awards, and achievements don’t define your child’s worth—or their future.🙌 Join the Conversation!Are you homeschooling, considering homeschooling, or navigating the school-versus-family balance in a busy season of life? We’d love to hear your story! You can connect with us and share your thoughts by tagging Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this incredibly vulnerable and emotional episode, Jena and Mary Pat catch up on the realities of planting season before Jena shares the long-awaited, and heartbreaking, results of her home mold inspection. After a 12-hour inspection by a team of specialists from Florida, she walks through the devastating findings, the emotional toll of feeling betrayed by her "safe space," and the overwhelming decisions her family now faces. This is a raw, honest look at a family's journey through a complex health crisis and a powerful reminder to trust your gut when it comes to your well-being.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ A Tale of Two Springs: A real-time planting update from both farms. Mary Pat's crew is fighting through rain delays and wet conditions, while Jena's family is over 75% done but dealing with extreme dryness, cold snaps, and pre-planting irrigation.✅ Jena's Long-Awaited Mold Update: The main focus of the episode is the result of the extensive mold inspection.* The Devastating Diagnosis: The inspectors reveal that the original advice to salvage the 1970s foundation was flawed, leading to a decade of slow, widespread moisture intrusion.* The Inspection Findings: A breakdown of the issues found, including long-term water damage in the boys' basement bedroom and separate moisture problems behind the walls in the master shower and kitchen island.* The Emotional Toll: Jena gets incredibly vulnerable about feeling betrayed by her home, using the analogy "my home is my crop, and my crop failed and made us sick" to explain her grief and frustration.* What's Next?: The overwhelming options for remediation—from tearing the house down again to digging out and sealing the foundation—and the difficult, expensive decisions that lie ahead.* A powerful reminder of why this journey began and the importance of being your own health advocate.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Planting season looks different for everyone. Don't compare your progress, weather, or stress levels to someone else's. Every farm is fighting its own unique battle.✨ Your home should be your safe space. When your environment is contributing to illness, the emotional and mental impact can be just as profound as the physical symptoms.✨ Be your own biggest health advocate. If you feel that something is wrong and aren't getting answers, keep digging. Trust your intuition and seek out specialists who will take your concerns seriously.✨ Sometimes a delayed project is a blessing in disguise. The delay of their garage addition, while frustrating at the time, was a God-send that prevented them from building onto a compromised structure.✨ Lean on your faith and your spouse when facing overwhelming news. In times of immense uncertainty, open communication and a shared faith are the anchors that will get you through.🙌 Join the Conversation!This was a very vulnerable episode to share. If you feel led, please send your prayers and encouragement to Jena and her family as they navigate the difficult decisions ahead. You can connect with us and share your thoughts by tagging Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! It's the thick of planting season, and in this episode, Jena and Mary Pat are catching up on everything from their very different weather situations to some major updates on the home front. Jena finally has the long-awaited mold inspector at her house, and she's sharing all the details of what it's like to navigate this complex and stressful process. Plus, the "OnlyGrans" retreat idea is gaining serious steam, and they're diving into listener feedback and brainstorming what this amazing event could look like.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Planting Progress & Weather Whiplash✅ The New Planter Advantage✅ The Mold Inspection Saga Continues✅ The "OnlyGrans" Retreat is Happening (Maybe!): The hype is real! They dive into the amazing listener feedback they've received about their "OnlyGrans" retreat idea.* What You Want to Learn: Listener requests include canning, sewing, bread making, mending coveralls, homeopathy, and more "granny skills."* The Vibe: An overwhelming vote for a "cozy and slow" retreat over a structured and productive one.* Brainstorming Session: They start spitballing ideas for timing (January!), location (Broken Bow, Oklahoma?), and logistics for making this dream a reality.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Every farm faces its own unique challenges. Whether it's too much rain or not enough, every region and every season brings a different kind of "hard."✨ Efficiency is a game-changer for mental health. Investing in more efficient equipment doesn't just save time; it can significantly reduce stress and create more space for family during busy seasons.✨ Be your own health advocate, and don't give up. Navigating a complex health issue like mold illness is a long, expensive, and frustrating journey. Keep searching for the right professionals who will take your concerns seriously.✨ There's a real hunger for community and shared wisdom. The enthusiastic response to the "OnlyGrans" idea proves that women are eager to connect, slow down, and learn timeless, practical skills from one another.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear from you! What do you think of the "OnlyGrans" retreat idea? What "granny skill" would you want to learn or teach? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this packed episode, Jena and Mary Pat are catching up on everything from spring break shenanigans and pre-planting progress to some seriously exciting life updates. Mary Pat drops a bombshell announcement that will change her family's life. Plus, Jena gives an incredible deep dive into the world of practical homeopathy, sharing what she's learning in her new class and how you can use it to empower your own family's health.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Spring Break Recaps & Pre-Planting Updates✅ BIG NEWS: Mary Pat's Family is Homeschooling! ✅ Homeopathy 101✅ Ticks & Lyme Disease Prevention✅ Hilarious Tangent✅ "Only Grans" Retreat Update💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Big life changes are scary, but incredibly rewarding. Mary Pat's decision to homeschool is a testament to listening to your heart and making the best choice for your family's unique needs, even if it's unconventional.✨ Practical homeopathy can be an empowering tool for moms. Learning about basic remedies for common ailments can give you the confidence to care for your family's health in a more natural, proactive way.✨ Be your own health advocate. Whether it's testing a tick for Lyme disease or exploring alternative medicine, you have the power to take control of your family's well-being.✨ Flexibility is a superpower. As Jena's "unplanned" spring break shows, having the ability to pivot and adapt to life's curveballs (like sickness) is a huge blessing.✨ Sometimes the best ideas come from just talking. The "Only Grans" retreat idea is a perfect example of how casual conversations can spark something truly special and needed in a community.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear from you! Are you homeschooling? What's your #1 piece of advice? Or do you have a go-to homeopathic remedy you love? Share your stories and tag us Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this very special episode, Jena and Mary Pat are joined by a beloved repeat guest who just so happened to be sleeping in the basement: Mary Pat's dad, Jack! As a farmer who started his career in the incredibly tough economy of the 1980s, Jack brings a lifetime of wisdom and a much-needed perspective to the challenges facing farmers today. From navigating 17% interest rates to the advice that kept him going when a lender told him to quit, this is a powerful conversation about resilience, faith, and the long-haul mindset it takes to build a generational farm.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Meet Jack (Again!): An introduction to Mary Pat's dad and his journey back to the family farm in 1981, leaving a stable management job to take over an operation that was in tough shape.✅ Farming in the '80s: A sobering look at the economic realities of the '80s farm crisis, including navigating interest rates as high as 17-18% and watching his farm's value plummet by 40% in just four years.✅ "I'll Let You Know When I'm Ready to Quit": Jack shares the powerful story of when his lender told him he was broke and should give up, and the sheer stubbornness and faith that kept him going.✅ The Long-Haul Mindset: Jack's core philosophy for survival: your average cost of production must be lower than your average income over the long haul. It's not about one single year.✅ Efficiency & Innovation: How his focus on efficiency allowed their family dairy to triple milk production per cow and triple crop production on the same acreage over his career.✅ A Father's Perspective on Farmland: Jack shares his strong opinions on converting productive farmland for solar panels and data centers, and the long-term risks of undervaluing our agricultural land.✅ The Biggest Advancement He's Seen: Jack points to advancements in seed genetics as the most significant change in his career, allowing for more targeted and reduced chemical use.✅ Hilarious & Heartwarming Stories: From Mary Pat's childhood "job" as Calf Health Manager to her aggressive grain truck driving and the time she got her bus driver's license in college.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Farming is a long-haul game. Don't get discouraged by one tough year. The key to long-term survival is managing your averages and focusing on efficiency.✨ Faith and stubbornness are a powerful combination. When the numbers look bleak and the world tells you to quit, a deep-seated belief in what you're doing (and a refusal to give up) can see you through the darkest times.✨ Your lender relationship is crucial. In good times and bad, maintaining open communication and a strong relationship with your lender is vital.✨ Productive farmland is a finite, precious resource. We must be thoughtful and forward-thinking about how we use our best land, as decisions made today will have long-term consequences on our food supply.✨ Hard work and a good attitude are timeless. The lessons learned from a generation that endured the '80s farm crisis—efficiency, perseverance, and faith—are just as relevant for farmers navigating the challenges of today.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! This week, Jena and Mary Pat are pulling back the curtain to talk about the parts of farm life you don't always see on social media. After a quick update on their pre-planting progress (or lack thereof, thanks to rain!), they dive into an honest conversation about the unseen pressures and struggles that come with the farming lifestyle. From financial stress and weather anxiety to marital strain during busy seasons, this is a raw and relatable look at the realities that exist beyond the highlight reel.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Pre-Planting Update✅ A Tangent on Tabs✅ The Parts We Don't Post* Weather Anxiety: The constant stress of watching the forecast, the helplessness of seeing storms ravage your crop, and the silent toll it takes on farmers.* Financial Pressure: A real talk about the gut-wrenching reality of high inputs and low markets in the current farm economy, and the misconception that farmers are "rich" just because they have big equipment.* Burnout & Exhaustion: The intense physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that comes with busy seasons and the importance of recognizing your limits.* Marriage Strain: How the pressure of busy seasons can create tension in a marriage, the danger of unmet expectations, and the importance of intentional communication.✅ How to Thrive, Not Just Survive: They shift to practical advice for navigating these challenges.* Take Care of Yourself: Mary Pat emphasizes Elaine Froese's advice to prioritize your spiritual, mental, and physical health so you can show up for your family.* Communicate Intentionally: Jena shares a simple but powerful daily check-in for couples: "What's in your head? What's on your heart? How can I help you today?"* Set Boundaries: The importance of saying "no" to protect your time and peace, even to good things like school dances.✅ A Final Word of Encouragement: A reminder that while every farm's situation is unique, many of the struggles are universal. You are not alone in the hard stuff.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Everyone is fighting an unseen battle. The highlight reel on social media never tells the full story. Remember that behind every smiling picture, there are real-life pressures and struggles.✨ The weather's impact is more than just physical; it's emotional. The constant uncertainty and lack of control over the weather is a significant source of stress for farm families.✨ Open communication is the antidote to assumptions. Unmet expectations are a major source of conflict, especially during busy seasons. Intentionally checking in with your spouse is crucial.✨ Your well-being is not optional. Prioritizing your spiritual, mental, and physical health isn't a luxury; it's a necessity that equips you to handle the demands of farm life and support your family well.✨ It's okay to not post the hard stuff. You don't owe the world every detail of your struggle. The goal is to inspire and educate, not to add to the noise.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this heartfelt and timely episode, Jena and Mary Pat tackle a heavy topic that's on the minds of so many in agriculture right now: how to find hope and encourage your husband during a tough farm economy. Inspired by a vulnerable listener message, they set aside their planned topic to offer encouragement, practical advice, and a powerful reminder of where our true hope lies, especially as planting season begins.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ A Prayer for Planting & Holy Week: Jena opens with a prayer for the upcoming season, asking for safety, patience, and a steadfast faith for all farm families, especially in a year with low markets and high inputs.✅ "You Are Not Alone": They start by addressing a listener's DM about the fear and anxiety surrounding the tough farm economy after a neighbor's farm was shut down by the bank.✅ The Long Haul Perspective: Mary Pat shares wisdom from her dad, a farmer who started in the '80s: farming is a long-term game where the goal is for your average income to be higher than your average cost over many years, not just one.✅ The Ultimate Encouragement: Faith: Jena shares the powerful message from her grandma's needlepoint sign: "Who plants a seed beneath the sod and waits to see, believes in God." They discuss how leaning on faith and giving anxieties to the Lord is the most crucial step in navigating uncertainty.✅ How to Practically Support Your Husband:* Pray for him specifically—for his physical body, his mental clarity, and for peace over the decisions he has to make.* Get curious. Ask questions to understand what's on his mind and heart.* Jena shares a simple but powerful daily check-in: "What's in your head? What's on your heart? How can I help you today?"✅ Building Your Own Resilience: A deep dive into how resilience isn't something you just have; it's something you build through small, daily habits like exercise, prayer, and gratitude, which prepares you for the hard seasons before they arrive.✅ A Mindset Shift on Self-Care: Jena offers a powerful reframe, viewing self-care not as selfish "self-love," but as biblically honoring your body as the temple God gave you so you can better serve your family.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ You cannot farm without faith. In years where the numbers don't pencil out, trusting in God's provision and sovereignty is the ultimate source of peace and strength.✨ Your support as a farm wife is a powerful ministry. Praying for your husband, encouraging open communication, and being his helper are vital roles, especially during high-stress seasons.✨ Resilience is built in the calm, not the storm. The small, daily habits of self-care (spiritual, mental, and physical) are what build the strength you'll need to withstand the tough times.✨ Focus on the long-term average, not just the short-term crisis. Farming is a career of ups and downs. One tough year does not define the entire journey.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this inspiring episode, Jena and Mary Pat are thrilled to welcome their friend and fellow entrepreneur, Katie Dowson. As the founder of Seed Life, a mom of three girls, and a farm wife, Katie's story is one of faith, grit, and incredible passion. She shares her journey of leaving a job she hated to build a business from the ground up, the realities of balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood and farm life, and the powerful reason she started running.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Meet Katie Dowson: An introduction to Katie, her background in agriculture, and her journey from livestock judging to becoming a "mompreneur."✅ The Leap of Faith: Katie shares her story of quitting a secure but unfulfilling job just eight months in to follow her passion back to her family's farm, even for a significant pay cut.✅ The Birth of Seed Life: How she identified a need for downstream seed treating and built her business from an idea, including the story behind the name: becoming the "Salt Life of the Midwest."✅ From Seed to Swag: The evolution of Seed Life from a seed treatment service to a beloved apparel brand that allows everyone—farmers and non-farmers alike—to support agriculture.✅ The Entrepreneurial Grind: Katie gets real about the early years—not paying herself for three to four years, selling Younique makeup on the side, and embracing being "uncomfy" to build her dream.✅ Balancing Business, Farm & Family: How she and her husband Adam use daily communication (at 5 AM!) to stay connected and support each other's busy schedules, especially during planting season.✅ The Power of Praying Together: Katie shares how starting to pray with her husband, while awkward at first, has profoundly deepened their connection and strengthened their marriage.✅ Running for Mental Health: A powerful testimony on how she started running to combat postpartum anxiety and how it has become a non-negotiable mental and spiritual practice for her to disconnect and fill her cup.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Life's too short to be unhappy. Taking a leap of faith to quit a job that drains you can open the door to your true passion and a more fulfilling life, even if it's harder in the short term.✨ The "overnight success" you see online is often built on years of unpaid work, side hustles, and embracing being uncomfortable. The entrepreneurial journey requires grit and perseverance.✨ Daily communication is the bedrock of a strong farm marriage. Even a short, intentional check-in each morning can keep you and your spouse feeling like a team during chaotic seasons.✨ Finding "me time" isn't selfish; it's essential. Carving out time for something that fills your cup—like running or a hobby—is crucial for your mental health and makes you a better mom, wife, and business owner.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Find Katie on Instagram: @kt.dowson Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! As Holy Week approaches and the pre-planting buzz is in the air, Jena and Mary Pat sit down for a candid catch-up on everything happening in their worlds. After opening with a beautiful prayer for the Easter season and the upcoming planting rush, they dive into spring break recaps, health updates, and a powerful discussion about the role of agriculture in the national conversation. From cookie competitions and wildfire relief to Ag Week at the White House, this episode is a perfect blend of real-life moments and thought-provoking conversation.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Pre-Planting & Spring Break Updates✅ Wildfires in the Sandhills✅ National Ag Week at the White House✅ Navigating Social Media Hate✅ A Deep Dive into the Old Testament✅ Focusing on the True Meaning of Easter✅ "Only Grans" - A New Retreat Idea? 💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Prepare your heart for the season. As both Holy Week and planting season approach, it's a perfect time to focus on what truly matters: your faith, your family, and trusting in God's plan.✨ Agriculture's story needs to be told. When farmers are given a platform, like at the White House, it's an opportunity to represent the industry and bridge the gap with the non-farming public.✨ Respect the position, even if you don't agree with the person. Showing respect for our nation's leaders is a principle that transcends politics.✨ The Old Testament is dense, but its lessons are timeless. The stories of failure, grace, and redemption from thousands of years ago are just as relevant to our lives today.✨ The greatest joy is found in community and shared wisdom. Whether it's rallying around ranchers during a wildfire or brainstorming a retreat to learn old-fashioned skills, we are better together.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! As planting season quickly approaches, Jena and Mary Pat sit down for a much-needed catch-up on all the exciting things happening in their lives. From big business launches and ambitious new fitness goals to a major vehicle upgrade, this conversation is packed with life updates, practical tips, and a heartfelt reflection on what truly matters.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Weather Whiplash & Planting Prep: A real-time update on the wild pre-planting weather, from 98-degree days and wildfires to snowstorms, and how it's impacting their prep work.✅ Mary Pat's New Ride: She's officially an SUV mom! Mary Pat shares the details of her new Ford Expedition and they discuss the pros and cons of hands-free driving technology like BlueCruise and Super Cruise.✅ Half-Marathon Training: They're both embarking on a half-marathon training journey! They discuss their motivations, the Peloton training program they're using, and the hunt for the perfect gravel-running shoes.✅ BIG LAUNCH! Beef's Best Friend: Jena officially introduces her brand-new, clean-ingredient seasoning, "Beef's Best Friend." ✅ ANOTHER NEW PRODUCT! The Skillet Stick: Jena also launched another genius product from Farm Wife Tallow – the "Skillet Stick," which is cooking tallow in a convenient, no-mess, push-pop style tube.✅ Business & Life Updates: Mary Pat gives an update on Grounded Journals, sharing her ideas for a future "Farmer/Ranch Kid Memory Book" and the importance of giving yourself grace to let projects evolve at their own pace.✅ A Heartfelt Reflection: The conversation takes a poignant turn as Mary Pat reflects on recent family losses and the profound realization of what truly matters: being present and available for the people you love.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Setting boundaries is crucial, especially heading into a busy season. Knowing when to say "no" protects your time and energy for what's most important.✨ Find a need and fill it. Many successful small businesses, like Jena's "Beef's Best Friend," are born from a personal need for a cleaner, better product.✨ Innovation isn't just for big equipment. Simple, convenient products like the Skillet Stick can make daily life easier and more enjoyable.✨ It's okay to let ideas simmer. Not every project needs to be on a fast track. Sometimes the best creations come after a season of rest and reflection.✨ Your most important role is being present for your family. Amidst all the business ventures and farm tasks, the ultimate goal is to be there for the people who need you most.Links You Need: Grounded Journals: https://www.groundedjournals.co/Beef's Best Friend: https://goodlifebeefne.com/Skillet Stick: https://www.farmwifetallow.com/products/skillet-stickFarm Wife Tallow: https://www.farmwifetallow.com/collections/skin-cooking🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! After a couple of weeks apart, Jena and Mary Pat are catching up on everything they've been up to, and this episode is all about Commodity Classic. With Jena holding down the fort at home, Mary Pat reports back from the massive farm show in San Antonio. From haunted hotels and exciting new ag tech to connecting with listeners and putting a big idea out into the universe, she's sharing all the highlights. Plus, they get into some hilarious travel horror stories and a few real-life running escapades.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Mary Pat Goes to Commodity Classic: A full recap of her trip to the massive farm show in San Antonio, which saw a record attendance of over 12,000 people.✅ The Coolest Tech on the Trade Show Floor:* Biologicals: An explosion of new biological fungicides and pesticides from innovative companies.* Aptera: A fascinating "crunchy" technology that structures irrigation water to mimic rainwater for better soil penetration and efficiency.✅ Community & Connection: Mary Pat shares how meeting and reconnecting with listeners in person is her favorite part of the show, and the power of putting faces to names.✅ A Big Idea for Future Shows: Putting it out into the universe! Jena and Mary Pat share their vision for creating a dedicated space or workshop for farm women at future Commodity Classic events to tackle topics like succession and mental health.✅ An Unexpected Opportunity: Mary Pat recounts a chance encounter with the Fellowship of Christian Farmers that led to a potential opportunity to lead a worship service at a future show.✅ Travel Horror Stories: Jena shares an absolutely wild story of being stranded by an airline after a previous Commodity Classic, complete with a mad dash through DFW, a rude gate agent, and a middle-of-the-night rescue from her trucker brother.✅ Running Escapades: They trade stories about their recent running adventures, from Jena's terrifying run-in with a skunk on a gravel road to Mary Pat's run being cut short by a call from the school nurse.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Go to the farm show! Events like Commodity Classic are invaluable for learning about new technology, making connections, and getting a pulse on the future of the industry.✨ Innovation is happening everywhere. From biologicals to water structuring technology, companies are constantly developing new tools to help farmers be more efficient and sustainable.✨ The people are the best part. The real value of attending these events is the opportunity to connect with fellow farmers, industry experts, and friends from across the country.✨ There's a need for more women-focused content in agriculture. Creating intentional spaces for farm women to learn and connect is crucial for the health of our families and businesses.✨ Advocate for yourself (even at the airport). While it doesn't always work out, don't be afraid to speak up and fight for what's right when you're faced with terrible customer service.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this incredibly practical episode, Jena and Mary Pat tackle the number one question they get asked: "How do you find the time?" Inspired by a listener question, they dive deep into the art and science of time management, prioritizing what truly matters, and building habits that stick. This isn't about finding more hours in the day; it's about taking control of the 24 you've been given.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ The "Hard Truth" About Time: Shifting your mindset from "I don't have time" to the more honest "It's not a priority right now" to truly assess what matters to you.✅ The Grass is Greener Where You Water It: Jena shares her story of stepping away from her full-time nursing job to finally have the time to "water" her side businesses and passions.✅ Identifying Your Time Sucks: A candid look at the biggest time-wasting culprits (hello, doom scrolling!) and the importance of an honest screen-time audit.✅ Foundations First: The Power of Sleep & Circadian Rhythm: Why prioritizing sleep—and the timing of your sleep—is the non-negotiable first step to having more energy for everything else. They also discuss getting morning sun and removing your phone from the bedroom.✅ Lessons from "Atomic Habits": Jena shares game-changing insights from the book by James Clear, including the four laws of habit formation (make it obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying).✅ Practical Habit-Building Strategies:* Using the "After I [current habit], I will [new habit]" formula (habit stacking) to build a new routine.* The importance of planning ahead (like picking your workout the night before) to reduce friction.* Mary Pat’s "carrot reward" idea to make new habits more satisfying.✅ Conquering Social Media Distraction: Their best tips for taking control of your phone, including the "create before you consume" rule, removing apps from your home screen, and mentioning tools like the Brick.✅ Navigating Seasonal Motivation: Mary Pat gets vulnerable about how she's hyper-focused during busy seasons but struggles with distraction in the off-season.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ It’s not about having time; it’s about making time. The things that are truly important to you will become priorities. If you're struggling to find time for something, ask yourself if it's genuinely a priority right now.✨ Your energy starts with sleep. Getting enough quality sleep, ideally by going to bed earlier, is the foundation for having the energy and clarity to tackle your goals.✨ Make good habits easy and bad habits hard. Use the principles from Atomic Habits to design your environment for success. Put your workout clothes out, move your phone out of the bedroom, and make your desired actions the path of least resistance.✨ "Create before you consume." This simple rule can transform your relationship with social media, turning it from a time-wasting distraction into a tool for intentional creation.✨ Consistency trumps intensity. Small, consistent actions over time lead to massive results. Remember that missing a habit for two days in a row is the start of a new (bad) habit.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this super-practical, listener-requested episode, Jena and Mary Pat are tackling a big question: "How do you transition to a healthier, non-toxic lifestyle without breaking the bank or losing your mind?" Drawing from their own years-long journeys, they offer a step-by-step guide to making cleaner swaps in your food, cleaning supplies, and personal care products. This is your ultimate primer on reading labels, finding better brands, and making sustainable changes one step at a time.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ The "Slow Swap" vs. "Unhinged" Method: Jena shares the story of why she went "unhinged" and threw out her entire pantry at once (due to her son's PANS diagnosis) but recommends a much more gradual, budget-friendly approach for everyone else.✅ Lane 1: Starting with Food:* The best place to start: Eliminating artificial food dyes from snacks, cereals, pickles, and even processed meats.* A deep dive into folic acid vs. folate, the MTHFR gene mutation, and why it's a crucial ingredient to watch for.* Brand shout-outs for cleaner kid-friendly snacks and treats (Simple Mills, Siete, Unreal, Love Bird, and more).✅ Lane 2: Sourcing Clean Products: A detailed breakdown of where they shop for healthier alternatives.* Thrive Market: Jena's go-to for condiments, pasta, and specific snack brands.* Azure Standard: A bulk-buying deep dive! They cover the pros and cons of the co-op model and share their must-buy items, including flour, sugar, laundry detergent, frozen fruit, raw cheese, and the best clean chocolate chips.✅ Lane 3: Cleaning & Personal Care:* The biggest culprit to avoid: Artificial fragrance and its impact on hormones.* Their favorite non-toxic household cleaners (Young Living Thieves) and dish detergents (Blueland vs. Dawn).* The hardest swaps: Finding clean, effective dry shampoo, conditioner, and natural deodorant.✅ Guilty Pleasures: A candid admission of the "not-so-crunchy" products they're not willing to give up (yet!).💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Pick one lane and start small. Don't try to overhaul your entire house at once. Start with one category, like food, and swap out items as you run out to avoid overwhelm and wasted money.✨ Food dyes are a great first target. They are neurotoxins hidden in many common foods, and eliminating them can have a noticeable impact, especially on children's behavior.✨ Read every label. Harmful ingredients like dyes, folic acid, seed oils, and artificial fragrances are often hidden in products marketed as "healthy."✨ Leverage online retailers for better options. Services like Thrive Market and Azure Standard can be game-changers for accessing cleaner products in bulk, especially in rural areas.✨ It's a journey, not a destination. Give yourself grace. The goal is progress, not perfection. Making small, consistent changes over time is what leads to a lasting healthy lifestyle.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life. This week, Jena and Mary Pat are tackling one of the most critical topics in agriculture: grain bin safety. They are joined by two special guests, sisters Missy and Maddie of "The Central Illinois Sisters," for a conversation that is both harrowing and hopeful. Missy shares her powerful, first-hand account of a near-fatal accident with a sweep auger and the miraculous moments that saved her life. This episode is a must-listen for every farm family, serving as a vital reminder of the dangers of complacency and the life-saving power of communication.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Meet Missy & Maddie✅ Grain Bin Safety Week: A primer on why this week is so important, including some sobering statistics on grain entrapment and a call to action to nominate your local fire department for Nationwide's grain rescue tube program.✅ Missy's Story - A Near-Miss in the Bin:✅ Lessons Learned & New Safety Protocols:* The danger of getting "too comfortable" with routine tasks.* Their new non-negotiables: Always having two people present when sweeping, never leaving anything to assumption, and treating safety like a pilot's pre-flight checklist.* The power of direct communication and eye contact before starting any machinery.✅ Farm Safety with Kids: The conversation pivots to crucial tips for keeping children safe on the farm.* Teaching kids to come immediately when called.* Over-communicating with all farm personnel about the presence and location of children.* The importance of establishing clear boundaries and "no-go" zones.* Practical tools like high-vis vests and child-proof locks.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Complacency is the biggest threat to farm safety. Getting "too comfortable" with a dangerous task you've done a hundred times is when accidents happen. Stay vigilant.✨ Over-communication is life-saving. Never assume someone knows what you're thinking or doing. Use direct language, make eye contact, and run through safety checks, every single time.✨ Never work alone in a grain bin. Having a second person present can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy.✨ Your story matters. Sharing near-miss experiences, like Missy's, is a powerful way to remind others of the real-life dangers and reinforce the importance of safety protocols.✨ Teach farm safety to kids early and often. Establish non-negotiable rules, create visual reminders of dangers, and maintain constant communication to build a culture of safety for the next generation.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Nominate Your Fire Department!Help equip your local first responders. Click here to learn more about Nationwide's Grain Bin Safety advocacy and nominate your fire department for a grain rescue tube.#GrainBinSafety #FarmSafety #AgSafety #GrainEntrapment #Harvest #FarmLife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #WomenInAg #FarmHer #FarmKids #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops for the first episode of 2026! After a much-needed January break, your hosts Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass are back behind the mics to catch up on life, travels, and what's on their hearts for the new year. This episode is a classic front-porch chat, filled with stories from their recent vacations, significant health updates, new hobbies, and their intentions for the year ahead.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ We're Back! Kicking off the new season with a prayer and a hilarious story about what happens when a pull-up explodes in the washing machine.✅ January Vacation Recaps:* Mary Pat shares stories from her trip to Cancun with Seed Life, including meeting awesome new farm couples and getting the worst sunburn of her life (leading to a tangent on "Jenna-approved" sunscreen).* Jena recounts her relaxing trip to the Dominican Republic with Beck's Hybrids, complete with beautiful beaches, a luxurious spa, and a refreshing alcohol-free vacation.✅ Real-Life Health Updates:* Mary Pat's Vertigo: A positive update! She shares the small but significant changes she's made—prioritizing sleep and a new migraine-support drink—that have led to milder and less frequent episodes.* Jena's Mold Journey: A deep dive into her family's ongoing health mystery. She shares the shocking results of a home dust test, the fascinating experience of having a "mold-sniffing dog" inspect their house, and what he found (including mold in her running shoes!).✅ New Hobbies & Homesteading: Mary Pat is officially a freeze-drying mama! She talks about her new hobby, the fun things she's already made (freeze-dried grapes are like candy!), and her plans to make beef organ supplements.✅ An Honest Homeschool Update: Jena shares the beauty of flexibility in homeschooling, taking an extended break after a season of sickness, and her thoughts on evolving their curriculum.✅ Intentions for 2026: Instead of rigid resolutions, they discuss their "words" and intentions for the new year, including Jena's focus on giving herself grace with her workouts and Mary Pat's goal of trusting God's plan while celebrating slow, consistent progress.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Taking a real break is a powerful reset. Whether it's a tropical vacation or a break from your normal routine, stepping away is crucial for recharging your mind and body.✨ Healing is not linear. It’s a journey of small changes, setbacks, and celebrating slow, consistent progress. The path to wellness requires patience and grace.✨ Be your own health advocate. When something doesn't feel right, keep digging. Ask questions, explore all options (even mold-sniffing dogs!), and be persistent in finding root causes.✨ Set intentions, not just resolutions. A guiding word for the year (like "Intention") or a general focus can be more powerful and sustainable than a rigid list of goals, allowing for grace and flexibility.✨ Find joy in the mundane. There is an opportunity to find blessings and glorify God even in the most everyday tasks, like a mountain of laundry.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’re so excited to be back for a new year! What's one thing you'd love for us to talk about in 2026? Let us know your ideas and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.#NewYearIntentions #HealthJourney #Vertigo #MoldSickness #FreezeDrying #Homesteading #HomeschoolLife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops for our final episode of the season! In this special solo episode, Jena is flying solo as Mary Pat is under the weather. After opening with a heartfelt prayer for health and a Christ-centered holiday season, Jena takes a moment to reflect on the year that was, the lessons learned, and what’s on the horizon for 2026. She shares a vulnerable and transparent look at her family’s intensive health and healing journey this past year, from startling lab results to the powerful tools they’ve used to detox and heal. This is a raw, honest, and ultimately hopeful look at a year of growth, challenges, and leaning on faith.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Flying Solo: Jena explains why she's recording by herself and sends prayers and well wishes to Mary Pat, who is recovering from another vertigo spell.✅ A Quick Christmas Recap✅ The Best "Non-Toy" Gifts✅ A Year of Healing: The 2025 Health Journey.✅ Looking Ahead to 2026:* Podcast Plans: The podcast will be taking a break for the month of January and will return with fresh episodes in February!* Family & Faith: Jena shares her family's prayer for another child in the coming year and the importance of focusing on health and healing first.* A Heartfelt Thank You: A sincere thank you to all the loyal listeners for their support, engagement, and ideas throughout the year.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Your health is your greatest asset. Don't wait for a crisis to make your well-being a priority. Investing in your health now is a long-term investment in your family and your future.✨ Healing is a journey, not a destination. It involves lifestyle changes that stack over time. Be patient with yourself and celebrate the small steps forward.✨ Detoxification is a powerful tool. In a world full of environmental toxins, actively supporting your body's natural detox pathways through tools like saunas, lymphatic support, and ozone therapy can be game-changing.✨ It's okay to take a break. Whether it's a social media break or a podcast break, stepping back to rest, recharge, and focus on family is essential for long-term sustainability.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! Get ready for another rapid-fire Q&A episode where Jena and Mary Pat tackle your heartfelt and practical questions. After opening with a prayer, they dive straight into some of the most relatable struggles of motherhood and farm life. From navigating the tough transition to being a stay-at-home mom and recovering from burnout, to the secrets of a happy marriage and the daunting world of healthcare, this conversation is packed with vulnerability, wisdom, and actionable advice.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ The Stay-at-Home Mom Transition✅ Burnout Recovery Advice ✅ Home & Family Systems✅ How They Knew Their Husbands Were "The One"✅ What They Wish They Knew in Their 20s✅ Intentions for the New Year✅ Navigating Healthcare as a Farm Family* Advocating for Your Health: Crucial advice on how to be your own advocate in the doctor's office, the importance of asking questions, finding providers who align with your values, and the shocking cost differences between hospitals and private clinics.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ The transition to being a stay-at-home mom is a huge mental shift. Give yourself grace, find a new rhythm, and don't be afraid to try (and pivot from) new things to find your purpose outside of motherhood.✨ Recovering from burnout starts with identifying the cause, delegating what you can, and implementing small, consistent habits (like gratitude and a solid nighttime routine) to regulate your nervous system.✨ A Christ-centered relationship is built on mutual care, support, and pursuit. Green flags are about how a partner shows up for you in the hard times and treasures you as Christ loves the church.✨ You are your own biggest health advocate. Don't be afraid to question the traditional healthcare system, explore alternatives to standard insurance, and find providers who will listen to you and help you find root causes.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! This week, Jena and Mary Pat are asking the question "What is Total Acre, and is it worth it?" They're joined by two very special guests who are deep in the trenches with this high-yield network: Mary Pat's husband Josh and fellow Wisconsin farmer Caleb Walters. From the community and networking to the data-driven trials and mindset shifts, they're breaking down what it takes to be a member, the biggest benefits they've seen on their own operations, and why it's about so much more than just chasing bushels.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ What is Total Acre? ✅ The Power of the Network✅ Data-Driven Trials✅ The Commitment Involved✅ The Best Time to Join✅ A Special Offer for Listeners💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Community is a cheat code. Learning from the mistakes and successes of hundreds of other farmers gives you a massive head start and helps you make better decisions, faster.✨ Pay attention to the details. The biggest gains often come from small, free adjustments—like planter settings, nutrient timing, and a deeper understanding of what the crop is telling you.✨ Don't jump in all at once. When adopting new practices, "dip your toe in the water." Test on a small scale, see what works for your unique operation, and then expand.✨ ROI is the real goal. Chasing high yields without considering the cost is a losing game. The best programs help you understand how to make more bushels with fewer or smarter inputs.✨ Once you know better, you do better. The knowledge gained from a group like Total Acre changes your perspective permanently. You can't "unsee" the details that lead to a healthier, more profitable crop.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.Special Offer from Total Acre (Until Jan. 15, 2026!):Use code PODCAST for a $500 discount on a first year membership with Total Acre. This discounted membership opportunity is only available until January 15, 2026, and will allow you to attend the Grower Clinic and End of Year Meetings that are happening right now.Click here to fill out the form and claim your $500 discount!This offer is only valid until January 15, 2026, so don't wait!Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! As the Advent season begins, Jena and Mary Pat are kicking off the holidays with a fun, rapid-fire Q&A episode, tackling a sleigh-full of listener questions. After opening with a beautiful prayer for a Christ-centered season, they dive into everything from favorite Christmas traditions and non-toy gift ideas to the hilarious realities of making adult friends. Get ready for a conversation packed with laughter, practical advice, and plenty of festive spirit!📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ A Prayer for Advent✅ A Musical Tangent✅ Rapid-Fire Christmas Q&A:* Favorite Christmas Traditions* Real vs. Fake Christmas Tree* Gift Ideas for Farm Kids (That Aren't Toys!)* Gift Ideas for Adults/Family* Staying Organized at Christmas✅ Making Adult Friends💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Keep Christ at the center of Christmas. In a season filled with materialism and busy schedules, intentionally focusing on the story of Jesus' birth brings peace and perspective.✨ Experiences and skills make incredible gifts. For kids and adults who have enough "stuff," consider gifting tools, subscription boxes, or planning a special trip to create lasting memories.✨ Protect your peace by setting boundaries. It's okay to say "no" to some gatherings to say "yes" to rest and quality time with your immediate family. The holidays don't have to be a frantic rush.✨ Adult friendships look different, and that's okay. Friendships in adulthood are often about quality over quantity and understanding that you can pick up right where you left off, even after weeks apart.✨ Invest in systems that simplify your life. Whether it's a better bookkeeping software like Traction Ag or a simple holiday tradition, finding what works for you reduces stress and creates more room for joy.CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS: Grounded Journals: Looking for a gift that truly lasts? Capture precious memories or organize big business goals with a Grounded Journal! With options for farmers, ranchers, and entrepreneurs, it's the perfect thoughtful present, and Mary Pat's customization event is on!Good Life Beef: The secret's out! Jena's beef business has officially rebranded to Good Life Beef. Check out the beautiful new website and snag one of her curated holiday gift boxes—the perfect, practical gift for landlords, family, or yourself!Farm Wife Tallow: Holiday goodies have arrived at Farm Wife Tallow! Snag the adorable new Mini Set for the perfect gift or stocking stuffer, get your hands on the limited-edition Renew scent, and don't forget the seasonal Pork Lard for the flakiest holiday pie crusts you've ever had.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! Fresh off the Thanksgiving holiday, Jena and Mary Pat are back for a classic catch-up episode that's equal parts heartfelt, hilarious, and helpful. They kick things off with a prayer for gratitude and peace as the holiday season begins. From there, they dive into everything from frustrating health updates and unlucky travel stories to decluttering tips, listener mail, and exciting news from their small businesses.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Health Updates & Holiday Recaps✅ A Sweet Listener Voicemail✅ Decluttering & Donating✅ The Closet Sale Deep Dive✅ Holiday Traditions & Prep✅ Small Business Holiday Showcase: It's the busiest season for their businesses!💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Give yourself grace, especially when you're not feeling 100%. It's okay to slow down, ask for help, and prioritize your health, even during busy seasons.✨ Be intentional about what you keep and what you gift. Decluttering your home creates a more peaceful space, and finding meaningful places to donate your items can bless others in your community.✨ Start small with holiday traditions. You don't have to do it all. Pick one or two meaningful activities, like a daily reading or a simple advent calendar, to focus your family's hearts on the reason for the season.✨ Your support for small businesses makes a huge impact. This holiday season, consider shopping from farm-wife-owned businesses for unique and thoughtful gifts.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Grounded Journals: Looking for a gift that truly lasts? Capture precious memories or organize big business goals with a Grounded Journal! With options for farmers, ranchers, and entrepreneurs, it's the perfect thoughtful present, and Mary Pat's customization event is on!Good Life Beef: The secret's out! Jena's beef business has officially rebranded to Good Life Beef. Check out the beautiful new website and snag one of her curated holiday gift boxes—the perfect, practical gift for landlords, family, or yourself!Farm Wife Tallow: Holiday goodies have arrived at Farm Wife Tallow! Snag the adorable new Mini Set for the perfect gift or stocking stuffer, get your hands on the limited-edition Renew scent, and don't forget the seasonal Pork Lard for the flakiest holiday pie crusts you've ever had.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Cops, where farm life meets real life! In this episode, Jena and Mary Pat are giving a real-time update on the end of harvest and answering some fantastic listener questions. They kick things off by responding to a heartfelt voicemail from a listener navigating a tough season, which leads to an encouraging conversation about finding your place, embracing change, and trusting God's plan. From there, they dive into a fun and practical Q&A, covering everything from decluttering tips to the realities of homeschooling.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Responding to a Listener Voicemail✅ Decluttering Before the Holidays* The "Poop Test": A hilarious but effective question to ask yourself: "If there was poop on this, would I clean it or throw it away?" If you'd throw it away, you probably don't need it!* The "Cooling Zone": Mary Pat's strategy of putting items in a temporary box before getting rid of them for good.* Start Small & Be Intentional: How to tackle overwhelming spaces one drawer at a time and be intentional about what you bring back into your home.✅ Answering Your Questions!* Homeschooling "Why": Jena recaps her family's journey to homeschooling—from the daily chaos of a traditional school schedule to feeling a lack of quality time, and finally, Stetson himself asking to be more involved on the farm.* Family Vacations: Their favorite family getaways, from an off-the-grid trip to Canada to a beloved family cabin in Northern Wisconsin.* Decluttering (More!): A discussion on getting kids involved in the decluttering process and teaching them responsibility for their spaces.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ You are not alone in your struggles. Every farm family faces hard seasons, tough conversations, and periods of uncertainty. There is hope and redemption on the other side.✨ When facing a trial, ask, "What is God trying to teach me?" Shifting your perspective from "Why me?" to "What can I learn?" opens the door for growth and understanding.✨ Decluttering your space declutters your mind. Creating physical breathing room in your home can have a profound impact on your mental and emotional well-being, especially during busy seasons.✨ It's okay to pivot when something isn't serving your family. Whether it's a school schedule or a business venture, have the courage to make a change if your current path is causing more chaos than connection.✨ Invest in your family's harmony. Prioritizing communication and seeking outside help for succession planning is one of the most important investments you can make in your farm's future.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this candid catch-up episode, Jena and Mary Pat dive into the realities of the late-harvest season and the unique pressures it brings. From navigating the "double whammy" of harvest and hunting season to sharing hilarious family stories this conversation is the perfect mix of laughter and life lessons. 📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ A Prayer for Harvest & Health ✅ Funny Hunting Stories✅ Food, Glorious Food✅ Marriage, Faith, and "Love and Respect"✅ Sermon Takeaways & God's Promises✅ And Yes, Fart Stories💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Embrace the season you're in. Whether it's the beautiful chaos of harvest, the quiet of a hunting weekend, or a season of learning in your marriage, find the joy and lessons in your current reality.✨ A strong marriage is a choice. Biblical principles like "Love and Respect" provide a roadmap for meeting your spouse's needs and choosing to honor your covenant with them and with God daily.✨ God's promises are an anchor. In a world that feels chaotic, remembering that God's word is true and His promises are always kept provides a deep and abiding peace.✨ Don't be afraid to experiment! In the kitchen and in life, trying new things—even if they "fail" like chocolate egg pudding—is part of the fun and learning process.✨ Laughter is a gift. Don't take life so seriously that you can't laugh at the ridiculous, hilarious, and sometimes gassy moments of family life.✨ Investing in communication is investing in your future. Taking the time to work on your family dynamics is one of the highest-return investments you can make for the longevity of your farm.✨ If you feel stuck, take action. Don't wait for a crisis to force a conversation. Proactively seeking help is a sign of strength and a commitment to your family's future.🙌 Join the Conversation!Have you navigated tricky family business conversations? What's one piece of advice you'd give to another farm family in transition? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. And don't forget to leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Special Offer from Elaine Froese (Nov. 17-21 ONLY!):Ready to get unstuck and build harmony in your farm family? Elaine is offering a special flash sale on her membership program exclusively for our community. This is the ONLY time she opens enrollment all year!Click here to learn more and sign up!Use code CROPS at checkout for a special discount on your first month.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Cops, where farm life meets real life! Jena and Mary Pat are here to answer your questions!  From practical questions about their favorite cab snacks and how to monetize social media, to thoughtful discussions on Bible study and navigating holiday family schedules, this episode is packed with stories, tips, and plenty of fun tangents.What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Harvest Updates✅ A Tangent on Farm Laundry✅ Things We're Loving Lately✅ Answering Your Questions!* Bible Study Ideas: Where to start if you're new to reading the Bible.* Favorite Family Vacations: Jena recounts their amazing, off-the-grid trip to a cabin in Canada, while Mary Pat shares her love for their family's cabin in Northern Wisconsin.* Making Money on Social Media: A transparent breakdown of how they earn an income, including paid partnerships, affiliate marketing, UGC, and the surprising power of monetizing on Facebook.* Favorite Cab Snacks for Kids: Bento box ideas, Paleo Valley beef sticks, bone broth protein, and more.* Dividing Time with Family During the Holidays: Strategies for navigating multiple family gatherings and setting boundaries to protect your own family's time.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Find what works for you. Whether it's laundry detergent, skincare, or a family vacation, what fills one person's cup might not fill yours. It's all about finding what aligns with your family's needs and values.✨ Set holiday boundaries with love. It's okay to say "no" or to create new traditions that prioritize your immediate family's peace and connection. ✨ Every family, farm, and person has a unique story. From historic tables to funny harvest breakdowns, these are the stories that make up the beautiful fabric of our lives.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Farm Wife Tallow: Mary Pat is a forever fan of the tallow body butter, especially the signature Heirloom scentThe Skinny Confidential Hot Mess Ice Roller: Jena's go-to for de-puffing and soothing her face and neck.The Five Minute Journal: This is the gratitude journal we both swear by to help retrain our brains.3 Farm Daughters Pasta: A farm-family-owned pasta we love. It’s delicious and made with high-quality wheat. (use code: JENA)Country Save Laundry Detergent: Mary Pat's go-to bulk, non-toxic powder detergent. Solely Fruit Strips: Another clean and simple snack for the tractor cab or lunchbox.The Seed Life Cookbook: We're both loving the recipes from this cookbook, including the apple crisp and cheeseburger Alfredo pasta Jena mentioned.Everyday Gospel Bible: Mary Pat's recommendation for a "Bible in a Year" style devotional that's all contained in one book.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcaThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Cops, where farm life meets real life! In this raw and relatable harvest season check-in, Jena and Mary Pat get real about what it's like to navigate the busiest time of year when life throws you curveballs. Mary Pat opens up about feeling defeated after another vertigo episode sidelines her from the field, leading to a heartfelt conversation about self-preservation, giving yourself grace, and the pressures we put on ourselves. From harvest updates and homeschool realities to field meal ideas and tips for staying sane, this episode is a perfect front-porch chat for anyone in the thick of it.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Harvest Updates (and Breakdowns)✅ The Pressure to Push Through✅ Homeschooling Through Harvest✅ Staying Organized Amid the Chaos✅ Field Meal Favorites & Ideas💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Give yourself grace to rest. Your health and well-being are more important than one more pass in the field. Listening to your body isn't a weakness; it's a necessity for long-term endurance.✨ Busy seasons require flexible routines. Whether it's homeschooling or a traditional school schedule, having a morning anchor point can bring calm to the chaos, but be prepared to adapt as the season demands.✨ It's okay to not be okay. Harvest is a high-stress season. It's normal to feel defeated, overwhelmed, and emotional. Acknowledge your feelings and lean on your support system.✨ Decluttering creates calm. An organized space can significantly reduce mental stress. If your house feels constantly chaotic, it might be a sign you still have too much stuff.✨ You are your child's best teacher in perseverance. How you handle breakdowns, setbacks, and challenges on the farm is a powerful lesson for your kids on how to work hard and push through difficulties.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear a cherished memory you have of your grandmother. Share a story with us on Instagram and tag @beyondthecrops_. And if you have a question or a story to share, don't forget you can leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Ready for Jena's secret weapons for rave-reviewed field meals? Grab the amazing, farm-grown 3 Farm Daughters pasta (use her code JENA for a discount!) and the Half Baked Harvest: Super Simple cookbook, which is a total steal on Amazon right now!Ready to trade the comparison trap for a daily dose of gratitude? Grab The Five Minute Journal we both swear by!This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Cops, where farm life meets real life! In this insightful and highly relatable episode, Jena and Mary Pat are tackling a thief that steals joy and paralyzes progress: comparison. After a quick harvest update filled with rain delays and breakdowns, they dive deep into why we compare, how it shows up in the ag world, and the practical, powerful steps you can take to break free. From social media pressures to finding your unique role on the farm, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone ready to stop looking sideways and start moving forward.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ The Roots of Comparison in Ag✅ Looking Beyond the Highlight Reel✅ Finding Freedom in Your Role✅ Practical Ways to Combat Comparison:* Finding Your Alignment* Keeping an Open Hand* The Power of Gratitude* Limiting Your Scroll* Asking the Right Questions💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Comparison paralyzes you; it doesn't propel you forward. When you're constantly looking sideways at what others are doing, you can't see the path God has laid out right in front of you.✨ If you're struggling with comparison, check your alignment. Often, intense feelings of comparison are a sign that you're not living in the role or season that truly fills your cup. Use it as a signal to reflect on what you really want.✨ Gratitude is the antidote to comparison. Intentionally practicing gratitude, especially by physically writing it down, retrains your brain and guards your peace against the thief of comparison.✨ Everyone has an unseen story. You never know the full picture of someone else's life, including the sacrifices, stress, and struggles behind their success. Focus on your own journey.✨ God's plan for you is unique. He gave you specific gifts for your family and your farm for a reason. Embrace your unique role and trust the path He has for you (Galatians 6:4-5).🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear a cherished memory you have of your grandmother. Share a story with us on Instagram and tag @beyondthecrops_. And if you have a question or a story to share, don't forget you can leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Ready to trade the comparison trap for a daily dose of gratitude? Grab The Five Minute Journal we both swear by!This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!#Comparison #MentalHealth #FarmLife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #Gratitude #ChristianPodcast #FarmWife #WomenInAg #Mindset #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this truly special episode, Jena and Mary Pat are honored to sit down with a woman whose life is woven into the very fabric of agricultural legacy: Glendia Beck. As the wife of CEO Sonny Beck and a pivotal figure in the Beck's Hybrids story, Glendia shares a lifetime of wisdom, from the hilarious story of how she and Sonny really met (it started in the womb!) to the foundational principles that have guided their family and business for generations. This is a conversation brimming with heartfelt advice, timeless values, and inspiring stories you won't want to miss.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Meet Glendia Beck✅ The Early Days of Beck's Hybrids✅ Foundational Philosophies✅ The #1 Rule for Family Businesses✅ Timeless Advice for Young Farm Wives✅ Faith, Trials, and Perseverance✅ The Heart of the Beck Family✅ Letting Kids Learn the Hard Way💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Work for someone else first. This simple rule can be a game-changer for family businesses, teaching the next generation invaluable lessons about work ethic, perspective, and gratitude for their own family's operation.✨ Support your spouse, especially when it's hard. In a farming marriage, your support during breakdowns, bad weather, and long hours is the glue that holds everything together. Choose encouragement over complaining.✨ Your attitude is one of the few things you can control. You can't control the weather or equipment failures, but you can control your mindset. Trusting in God and focusing on the positive builds resilience through any trial.✨ A legacy is built on service, not just sales. The Beck's philosophy of "helping farmers succeed" is a powerful reminder that when you pour into others, success will follow.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear a cherished memory you have of your grandmother. Share a story with us on Instagram and tag @beyondthecrops_. And if you have a question or a story to share, don't forget you can leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life. In this special and deeply personal episode, Jena and Mary Pat take a moment to pause amidst the harvest rush to honor the incredible women who shaped them. Between the two of them, they lost three beloved grandmothers this past summer, all of whom had deep roots in agriculture. Join them for a heartfelt conversation as they share cherished memories, funny stories, and the timeless values passed down from their family matriarchs.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ A Prayer for Harvest✅ Harvest Updates✅ Honoring Three Grandmas* Jena's Grandma Charlotte* Mary Pat's Grandma Marilyn ("Mandy")* Jena's Grandma Triva✅ Cherished Memories & Funny Stories✅ The Values They Passed Down✅ Grieving with Hope💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Grandmothers are the keepers of legacy. They hold the family stories, the classic recipes, and the timeless wisdom that shapes future generations.✨ The most cherished memories are often the simplest ones. A shared project in the kitchen, a special trip, or a funny, frugal habit can become a story told for years to come.✨ Faith provides peace in loss. Grieving is a natural and necessary part of life, but having the hope of heaven provides a deep and abiding comfort.✨ If your grandma is still with you, call her. Cherish the time you have with the matriarchs in your life. Their presence is a precious gift.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear a cherished memory you have of your grandmother. Share a story with us on Instagram and tag @beyondthecrops_. And if you have a question or a story to share, don't forget you can leave us a message on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!#HonoringGrandmothers #FarmLegacy #FamilyHistory #GriefAndHope #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #Harvest #Matriarchs #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this deeply personal and highly-requested episode, Jena and Mary Pat get vulnerable about health. With Jena on the mend from a severe illness during the peak of harvest, the stage is set for a raw conversation about navigating health challenges during the busiest seasons. Mary Pat takes the lead, opening up in detail for the first time about her frustrating, months-long battle with vertigo. From the first dizzy spell in a Walmart aisle to a winding journey through different doctors and treatments, she shares the whole story—the setbacks, the surprising discoveries, and the small wins that are bringing her closer to finding answers.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Harvest & Health Problems Don't Mix✅ Mary Pat's Vertigo Journey✅ The Search for Answers - A Winding Road✅ Taking Action & Finding Relief✅ Setbacks & Next Steps💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Be your own biggest advocate. If you feel like something is wrong and you aren't getting answers, don't stop searching. Seek second opinions, find functional medicine providers, and ask for comprehensive testing.✨ Understand "optimal" vs. "normal." The standard "normal" range on a lab report reflects an often-unhealthy average population. Aim for optimal levels to truly thrive, not just survive.✨ Healing is not linear. The path to wellness is full of twists, turns, progress, and setbacks. Don't get discouraged; every step, even the ones that don't "work," provides valuable information.✨ Your body is a connected system. A mysterious issue like vertigo can be linked to seemingly unrelated things like gut health, hormones, neck tension, or even dental issues. Look at the whole picture.✨ Don't underestimate the power of support. Whether it's a spouse doing dishes after a long day or a father-in-law folding laundry, having a village to lean on during health crises is invaluable.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear from you! Have you ever had to navigate a frustrating health journey? What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone who feels like they aren't being heard by their doctor? Share your thoughts, or leave a question for Mary Pat, on our new voicemail line! The link is in our show notes. Tag us @beyondthecrops_.#Vertigo #HealthJourney #FunctionalMedicine #WomensHealth #HormoneHealth #MTHFR #AdvocateForYourself #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #Harvest #SponsoredThis episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!We're so excited to launch our new voicemail line! Have a question, a story to share, or a topic suggestion for a future episode? Leave us a message and you might hear it on the show! The link is in our show notes and on our Instagram profile. And, as always, you can connect with us by tagging @beyondthecrops_.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! Harvest is officially underway, and your hosts Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass are diving into the beautiful chaos of the season. This episode is a classic catch-up, blending real-time harvest updates with life-at-home adventures, listener voicemails, and some heartfelt encouragement for navigating heavy times with grace.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Harvest Has Begun! ✅ Homeschooling Update✅ School Life & Potty Training✅ Listener Voicemails! ✅ Harvest Meals & Treats✅ Things We're Loving Lately✅ A Dose of Encouragement💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Harvest is predictably unpredictable. Breakdowns, weather threats, and schedule shifts are part of the deal. The key is to roll with it and find your rhythm.✨ Lean into what works for your family. Whether it's pivoting your homeschool curriculum or finding ways to be present at your child's school, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting.✨ Simple things bring the most joy. A good meal, a quick workout, a funny kid moment, or a healthy treat can be the small wins that get you through a demanding season.✨ Everyone is fighting an unseen battle. Leading with kindness, grace, and compassion is more important than ever.✨ Take it one step at a time. When life feels overwhelming, focus on the next small step. God is close to the brokenhearted and will give you the strength you need for each moment.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!We're so excited to launch our new voicemail line! Have a question, a story to share, or a topic suggestion for a future episode? Leave us a message and you might hear it on the show! The link is in our show notes and on our Instagram profile. And, as always, you can connect with us by tagging @beyondthecrops_.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!#Harvest22 #FarmLife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #HarvestMeals #HomeschoolingLife #PottyTraining #FarmKids #PelotonMoms #ListenerMail #KindnessMatters #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life. In this somber but hopeful episode, Jena and Mary Pat set aside their planned topic to speak from the heart about what’s been weighing on them. Opening with a heartfelt prayer, they dive into a candid conversation about navigating a world heavy with tragedy, the spiritual battles we all face, and the unwavering hope found in the Gospel. This isn't just a podcast episode; it's a front-porch chat about faith, conviction, and the urgent call for Christians to be a light in the darkness.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ A Prayer for a Heavy World✅ Processing Tragedy in a Digital Age✅ The Gospel is Simple✅ Finding Hope Amidst Grief✅ A Wake-Up Call for Lukewarm Christians ✅ Starting Revival at Home✅ The ABCs of Christianity💡 Key Takeaways:✨ In a dark world, the Gospel is our hope. While we grieve tragedy, as Christians, we do not grieve as those who have no hope. Our focus is not just on life and death, but on eternity.✨ Be a discerning consumer of media. The devil thrives on division. Seek the full context, check your heart, and don't fall for out-of-context narratives designed to make you hate others.✨ Salvation is a gift, not a wage. The message of the Gospel is that the work is "done." It's not about what we do to earn our way to heaven, but about accepting the finished work of Jesus on the cross.✨ This is a wake-up call to be bold. The world needs the light of Jesus now more than ever. This is not the time for lukewarm faith; it is a time to stand firm and share the truth with love and conviction.✨ Revival starts in your home. The most powerful way to change the world is by discipling your children, praying with them, and building a foundation of unwavering faith within your family.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!We're so excited to launch our new voicemail line! Have a question, a story to share, or a topic suggestion for a future episode? Leave us a message and you might hear it on the show! The link is in our show notes and on our Instagram profile. And, as always, you can connect with us by tagging @beyondthecrops_.Leave us a Voice Message!We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note!#FaithAndFarming #ChristianPodcast #TheGospel #Revival #HopeInDarkness #BeBold #LukewarmChristianity #SpiritualWarfare #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life. In this heartfelt and candid episode, Jena and Mary Pat take a moment to pause and reflect. Jena opens with a powerful prayer for a world heavy with tragedy, setting the stage for a conversation about finding hope, controlling what we can, and the immense value of community. Then, they dive into a full recap of their inspiring and cup-filling weekend at Kylie's Farm Wives Club, an event that couldn't have come at a better time.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ A Prayer for Heavy Hearts✅ Navigating Hard News✅ The "Can't Change It" Mindset✅ Farm Wives Club Recap - A First-Timer's Perspective✅ Inspiring Speakers & Workshops✅ Community, Connection & Full-Circle Moments💡 Key Takeaways:✨ In times of tragedy, faith is an anchor. Focusing on prayer and the light of Jesus provides hope when the world feels dark.✨ You cannot control world events, but you can control your home, your mindset, and how you show up for your family and community.✨ Vulnerability is the key to connection. Sharing our hard stories helps others feel seen and reminds us that we are never truly alone.✨ Community is essential. Events like Farm Wives Club are a powerful reminder of the strength and encouragement that comes from being surrounded by women who just "get it."✨ Your greatest trials can become your greatest testimony. Much like the origin of Farm Wives Club itself, beauty and purpose can be born from the darkest moments.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!We're so excited to launch our new voicemail line! Have a question, a story to share, or a topic suggestion for a future episode? Leave us a message and you might hear it on the show! The link is in our show notes and on our Instagram profile. And, as always, you can connect with us by tagging @beyondthecrops_.Leave us a Voice Message! We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note! #FarmWivesClub #FaithAndFarming #CommunityOverCompetition #WomenInAg #FarmLife #RuralLife #GriefAndHope #FarmWife #Mindset #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! Fresh off a whirlwind month of travel, your hosts Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass are here to recap their adventures at two major farm shows. From the incredible culture and cutting-edge research at Beck's Technology Days to the hustle and bustle of the Farm Progress Show, they're sharing the behind-the-scenes stories, coolest tech, and most inspiring moments. Plus, stick around to the end for a special live interview they recorded from the Case IH podcast studio at Farm Progress with tillage expert CJ Parker!📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Listener Love on the Road✅ Beck's Technology Days Recap✅ Farm Progress Show Recap✅ LIVE from the Case IH Booth: A Conversation with CJ Parker✅ BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Mary Pat and Jena launch a brand-new way for you to interact with the show – a voicemail line!💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Farm shows are invaluable for connecting with people, discovering new ideas, and seeing the future of agriculture firsthand.✨ Company culture and values matter. The success of a family-owned, faith-driven company like Beck's Hybrids is a testament to their commitment to farmers and research.✨ The future of ag tech is here, with innovations in autonomy, precision spraying, and smart tillage poised to change how we farm.✨ "Every pass of the field needs to complement the planter." This simple but powerful mantra highlights the importance of a systems approach to every job on the farm.✨ Tillage is a crucial and nuanced tool for residue management, soil health, and setting the crop up for success.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!We're so excited to launch our new voicemail line! Have a question, a story to share, or a topic suggestion for a future episode? Leave us a message and you might hear it on the show! The link is in our show notes and on our Instagram profile. And, as always, you can connect with us by tagging @beyondthecrops_.Leave us a Voice Message! We love hearing from you and continuing the conversation off the podcast. Click here to leave us a voice note! #FarmShow #FarmProgressShow #BecksHybrids #CaseIH #AgTech #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmLife #Tillage #PrecisionAg #SoilCommand #WomenInAg #FarmWife #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! Join your hosts, Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass, as they sit down with Lori Reese, the Director of Commercial Sustainability at Pivot Bio. This conversation is a fascinating deep dive into the future of farming, from cutting-edge microbial nitrogen products to the often-confusing world of carbon credits. Lori, who comes from a seventh-generation farm family on both sides, shares her unique perspective on innovation, sustainability, and leaving a lasting legacy.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Pivot Bio 101.✅ Jena's Pivot Bio Story✅ The Next Generation: Proven G3✅ New Horizons: More Crops & Global Expansion✅ Demystifying Carbon Credits & The Innovator Program✅ Career Advice & A Legacy of Sustainability💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Innovation is key. Pivot Bio is a prime example of a company disrupting a 100-year-old industry (synthetic fertilizer) to provide farmers with new, more efficient, and sustainable tools.✨ Proven G3 represents a significant leap forward. The new four-microbe blend offers farmers even more consistency and plant health benefits, building on the success of previous products.✨ Carbon programs can be a valuable opportunity. While complex, programs like Pivot Bio's Innovator Program offer a straightforward, low-commitment way for farmers to get paid for sustainable practice changes they're already making.✨ Sustainability is about legacy. At its core, adopting sustainable practices is about ensuring the health and viability of the land for future generations, a value deeply held by farmers.✨ Ask questions and find trusted partners. Whether you're trying a new product or exploring a carbon program, find good people to work with and resources you can trust to help you make the best decisions for your operation.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear from you! Are you exploring microbial nitrogen or carbon programs on your farm? What questions do you still have about these new technologies? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.To learn more about Pivot Bio's products and programs, visit pivotbio.com.#PivotBio #Sustainability #CarbonCredits #FarmTech #Sponsored #ProvenG3 #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #Farming #AgTech #WomenInAg #RegenerativeAg #NitrogenFixingThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this episode, your hosts Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass are tackling a topic on every parent's mind: heading back to school. With a fantastic listener question, they dive into prepping advice, lunch ideas, and strategies for managing the morning chaos. Coming from two different perspectives this year—Mary Pat sending her kids to school and Jena embarking on her first year of homeschooling—this conversation is packed with practical tips and relatable truths for any family navigating this seasonal shift.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ A quick recap of their trip to Beck's Hybrids Technology Days.✅ Prepping for the school year✅ Strategies for mastering the morning rush✅ Practical and easy breakfast and lunchbox ideas✅ The importance of mindset: Giving yourself grace, using mantras to stay calm, and creating small connection rituals with your kids.✅ A call for listeners to share their best back-to-school advice on Instagram.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Plan backwards, add cushion. The most effective way to build a successful morning routine is to figure out when you need to leave and plan every step backward from there, adding extra time for the unexpected.✨ Prep the night before. A few minutes of prep—laying out clothes, packing what you can, and cleaning the kitchen—can save you immense stress the next morning.✨ Establish a "drop zone." Designate a specific spot for all school-related items to land the second your kids walk in the door. It’s a game-changer for organization.✨ Give yourself grace. Whether it's your first year with kids in school or you're starting a new homeschool journey, this is a huge transition. It won't be perfect, and that's okay.✨ Find moments to connect. Amid the morning rush, find a small ritual—like a prayer, a song, or a specific question—to connect with your kids before they start their day.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!We're taking Jena's idea and running with it! Head over to our Instagram @beyondthecrops_ and find this week's episode post. In the comments, share your #1 best back-to-school tip for a busy farm family. Let's help each other out!#BackToSchool #FarmLife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #SchoolRoutines #MorningRoutine #Homeschooling #FarmKids #ParentingHacks #LunchboxIdeas #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops! In this episode, Jena and Mary Pat are joined by Dena Malsom, Chief Marketing Officer at the National Peanut Board, for a fascinating conversation that busts myths, shares surprising facts, and explores the story of this humble but mighty crop.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Meet Dena Malsom & her journey from corporate marketing to the National Peanut Board.✅ Peanut Farming 101: How peanuts are grown (spoiler: underground!) and why they're so sustainable.✅ The role of a commodity board in research, production, and consumer marketing.✅ Why peanuts are a zero-waste, nitrogen-fixing, and water-efficient crop.✅ Busting common myths about peanut nutrition and origins.✅ The "Health Nut Club" initiative and strategies for engaging Gen Z consumers.✅ Surprising and creative ways to eat peanuts (think pickles, fries, and breakfast sandwiches!).✅ The surprisingly small number of farmers behind this mighty American crop.✅ A global perspective on peanut consumption and America's unique love for peanut butter.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Peanuts are a surprisingly sustainable superfood, functioning as a zero-waste plant with low water usage and natural nitrogen-fixing properties that enrich the soil.✨ The U.S. peanut industry is powered by a small but mighty group of only ~7,000 farmers who produce enough to feed the nation and beyond.✨ Connecting with younger generations, like Gen Z, by highlighting sustainability, health benefits, and the story behind the food is crucial for the future of the crop.✨ When you choose peanuts or peanut butter, you're choosing a food that is good for you and good for the planet.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!What’s your favorite or most surprising way to eat peanuts or peanut butter? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_. Links You'll Want After Listening: NPB website: National Peanut BoardHealth Nut Club: Join the Health Nut Club: Promoting On-the-Go Wellness with PeanutsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalpeanutboard/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalpeanutboardLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-peanut-board#Peanuts #NationalPeanutBoard #FarmLife #SustainableFarming #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #WomenInAg #AgMarketing #FarmHer #KnowYourFarmer #PeanutButter #Sponsored #BecksHybridsThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops! Summer is in full swing, and for Jena and Mary Pat, it's been... dense. In this candid catch-up, they share the highs, lows, and hilarious chaos of a summer packed with family, travel, and unexpected health deep dives.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Catching up on a "dense but good" summer filled with intentional family time.✅ Navigating grief and family togetherness, plus a hilarious "beef stick in the ear" funeral moment.✅ The hilarious reality of toddler life, AKA living with a "feral raccoon."✅ Fair life: Jena's first year as a 4-H mom vs. Mary Pat's demolition derby past.✅ Jena's 10-year anniversary photos in her wedding dress.✅ Health deep dives: Mary Pat’s vertigo update and Jena’s surprising 10-day detox results.✅ Uncovering family heirlooms, from a vintage waffle maker to a canning hutch.✅ Farm updates: Ag PhD Field Day chaos, garden wins, and timely rains.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Intentionality is key for a chaotic but happy summer.✨ Family and humor are essential for navigating grief.✨ Don't be afraid to advocate for your health and explore new solutions.✨ Family heirlooms connect us to our past and find new purpose in the present.✨ Embracing the chaos is the only way to survive (and enjoy) life with young kids.🙌 Join the Conversation!What's been the highlight of your "dense" summer? Share your stories and tag us @beyondthecrops_!This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As the largest family-owned retail seed company in the US, Beck's is built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture. Learn more about their commitment to helping farmers succeed at beckshybrids.com.#DenseSummer #FarmLife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FamilyTime #GriefAndHealing #CountyFair #HealthJourney #Detox #ParentingRealTalk #SummerAdventuresThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Jena and Mary Pat share a conversation sparked by recent life events that have them thinking about legacy, the passage of time, and the ever-present challenge of managing screen time in a hyper-connected world. After the loss of both of her grandmothers just eight days apart, Jena shares the poignant realization that it often takes a funeral to bring the whole family together, leading to a heartfelt discussion about being truly present with the ones we love.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Jena shares the recent loss of her two beloved grandmothers.✅ Reflecting on the legacy of their screen-free grandmothers' generation.✅ Modeling healthy tech boundaries for our children.✅ The challenge of having a phone-based job while parenting young kids.✅ Actionable tips for reducing your own screen time ✅ Startling statistics on how often we really check our phones.✅ The addictive, intentional design of social media and video games.✅ Encouragement to be more intentional, even when it's hard.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ The time we have with loved ones is finite. Being present is a choice we must actively and intentionally make every day.✨ Our relationship with our phones is what our children will model. Healthy boundaries and intentional disconnection start with us.✨ Small, practical changes—like turning off notifications or moving apps off your home screen—can significantly reduce mindless scrolling and create space for real life.✨ Meaningful memories are often built in the simple, screen-free moments—cooking in the kitchen, playing outside, or just being fully together.✨ Don't wait for a major life event to prioritize family. Put the phone down, be present, and "call your grandma."This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!This episode is a powerful reminder for all of us. What's one boundary you're setting with your phone to be more present with your family this week? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_.#ScreenTime #DigitalDetox #BeingPresent #FarmLife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #Parenting #FamilyLegacy #Grandparents #IntentionalLiving #RuralLifeThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! Did you know a staggering 80% of farmers don't plan to fully retire, creating huge risks for the farm and family. In this crucial succession episode, we're tackling the tough questions about what happens when you can no longer work. Mary Pat and Jena are joined by ag economist Jessica Groskopf, to debunk financial myths and reveal the four essential estate documents every adult needs now to protect their legacy.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Why 80% of farmers don't plan to fully retire.✅ Moving beyond the "the farm is my retirement" mindset.✅ Planning for the staggering costs of long-term care.✅ Debunking common retirement account myths.✅ Retirement accounts designed for farmers (like the Solo 401k).✅ The importance of building your professional "dream team."✅ Asking the powerful question: "What is enough?"✅ Why Mom can't be left out of the succession plan.✅ The four essential estate documents every adult needs NOW.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Your body will likely make the retirement choice for you before you're ready. Planning ahead ensures the farm and your family are protected when you physically can no longer work.✨ Building a trusted team of professionals (attorney, CPA, financial advisor) is non-negotiable for navigating the complexities of succession, retirement, and long-term care planning.✨ Retirement accounts are flexible tools that can reduce tax liability, provide income for older generations, take pressure off the farm, and even help equalize inheritance for non-farming heirs.✨ The most crucial, immediate step every adult should take is to establish the four basic estate planning documents: a will, a power of attorney, a power of attorney for healthcare, and a healthcare directive.✨ Ask the tough questions now: "What is enough?" and "What do our sunset years look like?" These conversations are vital for creating a plan that serves every generation.🔗 Connect with Our Guest:Find Jessica and her incredible resources on Instagram @JessicaGroff. You can also find her free articles, webinars, and podcasts by searching for her name on the University of Nebraska Extension website.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. From localized support to research-backed insights, Beck's is committed to helping farmers succeed for generations. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!What's one question this episode sparked for you about your own family's retirement or succession plan? What's one step you're taking to get the conversation started? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_.#SuccessionPlanning #FarmRetirement #FarmLife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #EstatePlanning #WomenInAg #FarmFinance #FamilyFarm #GenerationalTransition #FinancialPlanning #LongTermCareThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! Join your hosts, Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass, as they "think outside the box" with special guest and agronomist, Faith Pearson. In this eye-opening conversation, Faith Pierson (aka "The Crunchy Agronomist") challenges conventional wisdom and draws fascinating parallels between holistic human health and the health of our soil.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Holistic Soil Health vs. Traditional Agronomy✅ Rethinking the Soil Test✅ The "Makeup" Effect of Nitrogen✅ The "Fence Row Effect"✅ Challenging "The Way We've Always Done It"✅ A Candid Conversation About Roundup (Glyphosate):* Its history (did you know it was originally an industrial pipe cleaner?).* How it works as a chelator and its potential impact on crops and soil biology.* The importance of stewarding chemistries to combat weed resistance.* Discussing how it's possible to farm with less, or even without, Roundup.✅ Faith's "Hot Take": Her biggest challenge to the industry revolves around nitrogen rates and rethinking what's enough versus what's too much.💡 Key Takeaways:✨ Just like in human health, addressing the root cause of an issue in the soil is more effective and sustainable than repeatedly treating the symptom.✨ Traditional soil tests may not be giving you the full picture. A more holistic test can reveal your true limiting factors and prevent you from applying inputs that aren't providing a return on investment.✨ Over-reliance on synthetic fertilizers can disrupt the natural soil microbiome, making your farm more dependent on inputs over time.✨ Challenging "the way we've always done it" and being open to new methods is crucial for long-term soil health, resilience to weather events, and farm profitability.✨ Taking one small, informed step—like getting a different kind of soil test—is the best way to begin the journey toward a healthier, more resilient farming operation.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. Built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937, Beck's is committed to helping farmers succeed for generations. From localized support to research-backed insights, learn more about what they offer at beckshybrids.com.🙌 Join the Conversation!What did you find most interesting about this conversation? Are you rethinking how you look at your own soil health? Share your thoughts and tag us @beyondthecrops_.You can connect with Faith on X (formerly Twitter) @FaithLois12.#SoilHealth #Agronomy #RegenerativeAg #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #WomenInAg #FarmingForTheFuture #HaneyTest #TheCrunchyAgronomist #Roundup #Glyphosate #FarmLife #Beckshybrids #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this special episode, Mary Pat takes the host chair and brings on her husband, Josh, for a fun and lighthearted Q&A session. They pulled questions directly from listeners on Instagram, covering everything from this season's crop updates and farm dynamics to raising kids on the farm and keeping a marriage strong.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:If you want to be more involved in the farm operation, you have to voice it. Start the conversation and be flexible with the role you're given.Open communication is the cornerstone of balancing work and marriage on the farm. Support each other's passions and find ways to work as a team.It's possible to be a conventional farmer and still embrace a holistic lifestyle. The conversation is nuanced, and it's okay to question practices while still using necessary tools.When raising kids on the farm, your attitude is everything. Show them you love what you do, and they're more likely to find joy in it too.Whether it's farm meetings or family dinners, having some structure can help manage expectations and create intentional time for connection.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear from you! What's one question you'd love to ask a farmer or a farm husband? Send us a DM and let us know! Tag us @beyondthecrops_.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. From localized support to research-backed insights, Beck's is committed to helping farmers succeed for generations. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.#FarmCouple #FarmLife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #AskAFarmer #FarmerHusband #MarriageOnTheFarm #FarmQandA #CarnivoreDiet #RaisingKidsOnTheFarm #FamilyFarm #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! Join your hosts, Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass, as they dive into a conversation that’s close to the heart of every farm family: prioritizing family time amidst the never-ending demands of the farm.With their different living situations—Jena on the farm and Mary Pat off—they offer unique perspectives on a universal challenge. They discuss the guilt, the blurred lines, and the intentional strategies they've developed to protect their family relationships and create lasting memories when it feels like the work is never done.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:Prioritizing family time on the farm is a conscious choice and a planned effort, not something that happens by accident.There's no one-size-fits-all solution. A structured approach (scheduled days off) can work just as well as a fluid one (spontaneous time away), depending on your farm's needs and family dynamics.Protect the relationships at all costs. The farm is important, but faith and family are the true foundation.Incorporate simple, consistent family rituals, like "High Low Buffalo" at dinner or taking Sundays off, to create intentional space for connection.It’s okay to break from "how it's always been done" to create a system that works better for your generation and protects your family's well-being.🙌 Join the Conversation!We’d love to hear from you! What’s one way your family prioritizes time together during the busy seasons? Do you have a structured plan or do you go with the flow? Send us a DM and share your story! Tag us @beyondthecrops_.This episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. As farmers, we pour so much trust into every decision. That's why we're proud to partner with Beck's Hybrids, a company built on faith, family, and a love for agriculture since 1937. From localized support to research-backed insights, Beck's is committed to helping farmers succeed for generations. Learn more at beckshybrids.com.#FarmLife #FamilyFarm #PrioritizingFamily #FarmWife #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #WorkLifeBalance #FamilyTime #Farming #GenerationalFarming #MarriageOnTheFarm #FarmRelationships #SponsoredThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here

Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, where farm life meets real life! In this powerful episode, hosts Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass are welcoming back a trusted expert in farm family dynamics, Elaine Froese. Elaine is a certified farm family coach, author, and speaker who specializes in helping families have the hard conversations necessary for a successful farm transition. This time, they're moving beyond initial communication and diving deep into the essential structures, mindsets, and actionable steps needed to create a lasting legacy and find harmony on the farm.📌 What We Cover in This Episode:Procrastination and conflict avoidance are killing agriculture. The best time to start transition planning is now, before a crisis forces your hand.Transition planning is NOT a DIY project. A neutral, skilled facilitator or coach is crucial for navigating tough conversations and keeping the process on track.Separate your meetings. Have regular operational meetings for the business team and intentional strategic meetings for the entire family to discuss vision, roles, and legacy.Emotion has a place in these conversations. Approaching negotiations with a positive, cooperative spirit leads to better communication and outcomes.Start with vision, not tactics. Understand what everyone wants for their life and the farm's future before getting bogged down in legal and financial details.Don't wait. You are never too young (or too old) to start planting the seeds for a successful farm transition.🙌 Join the Conversation!What's one small step you can take this month to move your farm's transition plan forward? Have you ever worked with a facilitator? We'd love to hear your story! Tag us @beyondthecrops_.Find Elaine Froese : Home - Elaine Froese | Canada’s Farm Whisperer | Your go-to expert for farm families who want better communication and conflict resolution to secure a successful farm transitionElaine’s Podcast: Farm Family Harmony Podcast - Elaine Froese | Canada’s Farm Whisperer | Your go-to expert for farm families who want better communication and conflict resolution to secure a successful farm transitionBeyond Reason book: Beyond Reason: Using Emotions as You NegotiateRanching for Profit School - Learn how to transform your ranch.BetterHelp | Professional Therapy With A Licensed TherapistThis episode of Beyond the Crops is brought to you by Beck's Hybrids. Built on faith, family, and a deep love for agriculture since 1937, Beck's is the largest family-owned retail seed company and the third largest seed brand in the US. They are committed to helping farmers succeed for generations. Learn more about their story and offerings at beckshybrids.com.#FarmTransition #SuccessionPlanning #FarmFamily #BeyondTheCropsPodcast #FarmWife #FamilyBusiness #FarmSuccession #AgLegacy #Communication #ElaineFraise #FarmCoach #AgricultureThank you to the sponsor of this episode, Fieldview. Both Jena and MP have used Fieldview on their farms for the past several years and it's been an integral data and decision making tool for their operations. Check them out here