Farming on Purpose

“You don’t have to be on one end of the spectrum or the other. It’s okay to find the middle ground.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Ali Lightfoot of Lightfoot Farmstead in Tennessee to talk about building a direct-to-consumer farm business while balancing full-time jobs, raising kids, and figuring it out one step at a time.  Ali shares how she went from having zero agricultural background to helping grow a thriving farmstead operation alongside her husband, Wesley. What started as a small effort to feed their own family slowly expanded into beef, pork, pasture-raised chicken, eggs, jams, jellies, raw milk, and a loyal customer base throughout the Memphis area.  We talk about the realities of scaling a farm business outside of traditional agriculture, including the challenges of balancing work and family, losing their USDA processing facility in a fire, and rebuilding their business through creativity and persistence.  Ali also shares the story behind their now-famous bright blue converted school bus turned mobile farm store — a project that started almost as a joke and became one of the most recognizable parts of their business.  This episode is packed with honest conversations about direct-to-consumer farming, educating consumers, building systems that actually work, and creating a farm business that fits your family and values.  Key Topics:  Growing a farm business while both spouses work full-time Transitioning from feeding your family to selling direct-to-consumer Building a loyal customer base through farmers markets and education The challenges of scaling beef, pork, and pasture-raised chicken Losing their USDA processing facility in a fire and rebuilding afterward Converting a 1990s school bus into a mobile farm store Educating customers about seasonality and food production Why finding the “middle ground” in agriculture matters Balancing profitability, food quality, and affordability Teaching others how to raise and process their own food LINKS  Follow Ali & Lightfoot Farmstead: Facebook, Instagram & TikTok: @lightfootfarmsteadtn Website: https://www.lightfootfarmsteadtn.com/  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  Episode #112: A Family Legacy of Dairy and Determination[Text Wrapping Break]A deep dive into what it really means to grow up in dairy farming and carry that responsibility forward. This episode explores the connection between family, livestock, and identity—and the pressure that comes with keeping it all going.  Episode #101: From Conventional to Regenerative: One Family's Journey to Building a Sustainable Farm  This episode explores what it actually takes to build a local food business, connect with customers, and create additional income streams beyond commodity agriculture.  Episode #74: Capturing Profit from Heifers with Direct-to-Consumer Beef with Amanda of 2383 Farms  A practical discussion around diversification, value-added agriculture, and finding ways to create more stability and profitability within a farm operation.    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“We have to evolve to keep what we have.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Hannah and Ashley Rainville, two sisters from a multi-generational dairy farm in northern Vermont, to talk about what it looks like to face one of the hardest decisions in agriculture—stepping away from the system you were raised in.  Hannah and Ashley share the reality behind their family’s decision to sell their dairy herd after generations of milking cows. What started as a tough winter filled with breakdowns, low milk prices, and mounting pressure turned into a deeper conversation about sustainability—not just financially, but for their family, their future, and their way of life.  We talk about the emotional weight of that decision, what it means to redefine legacy, and how they’re beginning to build a new path forward. From experimenting with gardening and livestock to exploring direct-to-consumer opportunities, they’re not walking away from farming—they’re reshaping it.  This episode is a powerful listen for anyone navigating change in agriculture, questioning the systems they’ve been handed, or trying to figure out what comes next for their farm and their family.    Key Topics:  The reality behind selling a family dairy herd Why the traditional dairy model is becoming harder to sustain The emotional side of change and decision-making on a family farm What it means to protect legacy while doing things differently How small experiments can shape a new direction for your farm Building a diversified, direct-to-consumer model Why family—not the operation—has tocome first Navigating uncertainty while creating new opportunities   LINKS  Follow Hannah & Ashley Rainville: TikTok & Facebook: RainvilleRizzz  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  Episode #112: A Family Legacy of Dairy and Determination  A deep dive into what it really means to grow up in dairy farming and carry that responsibility forward. This episode explores the connection between family, livestock, and identity—and the pressure that comes with keeping it all going.  Episode #90: Current State of Farming – A Tale of Two Scales  This episode breaks down one of the biggest tensions in agriculture today—the gap between small family farms and large-scale operations—and what that means for the future of the industry.  Episode #74: Capturing Profit from Heifers with Direct-to-Consumer Beef  A practical look at what diversification can actually look like on a farm, including selling direct-to-consumer and building additional income streams beyond traditional models.    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“Convenience replaced skill, and we stopped noticing what we lost.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Kody Hanner, founder of The Homestead Education, to talk about what happens when life forces you to rethink everything—your food, your health, and the way your family operates.  Kody shares the story of her husband’s end-stage liver disease diagnosis at 33 and the decision that followed—to completely change how they lived in order to fight for his health. What started as a response to a crisis turned into a full shift toward homesteading, whole foods, and rebuilding lost skills.  We talk about the reality of what it takes to produce your own food, why so many families feel overwhelmed trying to start, and how small, intentional changes can lead to long-term transformation. Kody also shares how bringing kids into the process builds responsibility, confidence, and a stronger family unit.  This episode is a great listen for anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their food, overwhelmed by where to start, or curious about what it actually looks like to build a more self-sufficient lifestyle.    Key Topics:  The turning point that led to a complete lifestyle shift   What it actually takes to produce your own food at home   Why convenience has replaced skill in modern life   How to start building homesteading skills without overwhelm   The role of food in long-term health and healing   Teaching kids responsibility through real-life involvement   Why knowledge is more valuable than stockpiling supplies  The mindset shift required to live more self-sufficiently    LINKS  Learn more about The Homestead Education: https://www.thehomesteadeducation.com  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  Episode #59: Start Homesteading in Your Kitchen with Meghan Gates Meghan Gates shares how she began her homesteading journey by focusing on simple, practical skills in the kitchen. From baking bread to preserving food and making intentional sourcing decisions, this episode walks through how small, consistent changes can build confidence and capability over time.  Episode #64: From Homesteading to Backgrounding Beef and Meat Business Expansion This episode follows the evolution from a small-scale homesteading mindset into a growing livestock and meat business. It covers the transition into backgrounding cattle, expanding production, and the operational and marketing considerations that come with scaling beyond the homestead.  Episode #55: The Farm & Food System - Insurance, Regulation, and Trends toward Self Sufficiency A broader look at the systems that shape agriculture and food production, this episode explores how insurance, regulation, and policy impact producers and consumers alike. It also dives into the increasing interest in self-sufficiency and what that shift means for the future of food systems.    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“Policies built for emergencies rarely stay temporary.”  In this solo episode of Farming on Purpose, I continue the conversation about resource allocation in agriculture — but this time through the lens of policy, infrastructure, and the decisions that quietly shaped modern farming.  Most farmers today operate within a system that was built long before they ever planted their first crop. Grain elevators, crop insurance programs, futures markets, rail systems, and federal farm programs all grew out of a moment of crisis during the Great Depression. What started as an emergency response to collapsing farm prices eventually became the framework that now guides much of modern agricultural production.  In this episode, I walk through how government involvement in agriculture began in the 1930s, how the Agricultural Adjustment Act reshaped production decisions, and how the infrastructure that followed reinforced those choices for generations.  This conversation isn’t about criticizing the system — the policies created during that era helped stabilize agriculture and protect the country’s food supply. But it is worth asking how those policies continue influencing the crops we grow, the risks farmers take, and the structure of rural communities today.  If you’ve ever wondered why corn and soybeans dominate so much of the agricultural landscape — or why switching crops isn’t nearly as simple as people often assume — this episode helps explain the deeper story behind it.    Key Topics  Why the U.S. government first intervened in agriculture during the Great Depression How the Agricultural Adjustment Act reshaped crop production and market stability Why Title I commodity crops (corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, rice, and peanuts) became the backbone of federal policy How infrastructure — grain elevators, rail systems, ethanol plants, and futures markets — reinforced those crops over time The role crop insurance and federal programs play in reducing risk for producers Why diversification is harder today than it was historically How agricultural consolidation has changed rural communities The difference between feeding people directly and supporting global food systems through commodity production Why simply telling farmers to “grow something else” ignores the infrastructurerequiredto support new crops  The tension between stability and flexibility in modern agricultural systems   Reflection Questions from This Episode  This episode closes with questions designed to help producers think more deeply about the systems they operate within:  If the system we farm in today was built during a crisisnearly 100years ago, how might that influence the choices we see as “normal”?  What risks does our current system reduce — and what kinds of flexibility might it limit? If diversification were possible in your region, what infrastructure would need to exist first? Are our current production systemsoptimizingstability, efficiency, or resilience?  What role should policy play in shaping agricultural production in the future? If the goal is both global food reliability and strong rural communities, how might those priorities be balanced? What conversations should agriculture be having now about the next generation of policy and infrastructure?   Links Referenced in This Episode  FRASER wholesale price data  https://fraser.stlouisfed.org/files/docs/publications/SCB/pages/1935-1939/2755_1935-1939.pdf  CBO crop insurance subsidy  https://www.cbo.gov/budget-options/60893  GAO crop insurance  https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-23-106228  USDA soybean use  https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/coexistence-soybeans-factsheet.pdf  MSU soybean use  https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/where_do_all_these_soybeans_go  MSU trypsin inhibitor  https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/hidden-variable-in-soybean-meal-trypsin-inhibitors-and-swine-growth  Journal of Animal Science  https://academic.oup.com/jas/article/doi/10.1093/jas/skaf253/8234085  USDA ERS corn overview  https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/crops/corn-and-other-feed-grains/feed-grains-sector-at-a-glance  USDA ERS ethanol use  https://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/pub-details?pubid=105761  AHA advisory  https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000510  Linoleic acid review  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22889633  JAMA plant oils study  https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2831265  Johns Hopkins explainer  https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2025/the-evidence-behind-seed-oils-health-effects  Alternative PUFA interpretation  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5437600  LINKS  Learn more about Outlaw Ranch Care and the Country Living Academy:  https://outlawranchcare.com  Listeners of the Farming on Purpose Podcast can also receive a 50% off for the annual membership using the special code FP50.  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy  Episode #125: Raising More Than Livestock — Building a Multi-Generation Direct-to-Consumer Farm Business  This episode explores what it takes to build a diversified farm business outside of traditional commodity systems. Nola and Mikaela Schultz share the realities of running a multi-generation family farm while developing direct-to-consumer markets, navigating processing challenges, and creating new income streams for the next generation.  Episode #124: Marriage, Parenthood & Building a Business  Building a farm or ag-related business affects more than just production decisions—it shapes family life as well. This episode dives into the reality of building a business while raising a family, exploring the leadership, structure, and long-term vision required to create something that supports both your work and your life.  Episode #123: Year-End Tax Planning and Financial Confidence on the Farm  Understanding the financial side of farming is critical to managing risk and building resilient operations. In this episode, Kansas Farm Management economist Tressie Mitzner shares practical strategies for improving financial clarity, preparing for taxes, and making better long-term business decisions on the farm.    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“People really want the agricultural life. They want to learn how to do it right—they just need someone willing to show them.”    In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Frank Baggiolini, asset manager and content creator for Outlaw Ranch Care, to talk about a growing shift in rural America: the rise of first-time landowners and the opportunity agriculture has to welcome them.  Frank grew up surrounded by agriculture in California, raising registered Polled Herefords through youth projects while his family farmed vegetables in the Salinas Valley. Over the years, his career took him across several corners of the industry—from dairy work and orchard removal to managing equipment operations for large pistachio and almond farms.  Today, that experience has come full circle.  Through Outlaw Ranch Care and their Country Living Academy, Frank and his partners help new rural landowners learn the practical skills needed to manage their land, care for livestock, operate equipment, and build productive properties.  We talk about the reality many new landowners face when they purchase rural property with big dreams but little experience. Frank shares how simple knowledge gaps—from backing a trailer to managing pasture weeds—can quickly become overwhelming without guidance.  We also discuss the bigger picture for agriculture. While the rise of small acreage properties can sometimes create tension within traditional ag communities, Frank believes helping new landowners become responsible stewards of the land ultimately strengthens agriculture as a whole.  This episode is a great listen for producers, first-time landowners, homesteaders, and anyone thinking about buying rural property and learning how to care for it well.    Key Topics  Growing up in California agriculture raising Polled Herefords and row crops · How Frank’s career moved through multiple sectors of agriculture · The story behind starting Outlaw Ranch Care  · Why many first-time landowners struggle after purchasing rural property  · Teaching practical ranch skills through the Country Living Academy  · Common mistakes new landowners make when buying tractors and equipment  · Documenting the process of building and restoring a small ranch property  · The debate around small acreage “ranchettes” and land stewardship  · Why helping new landowners succeed can benefit the future of agriculture  · How small producers can still contribute to the broader cattle industry    LINKS  Learn more about Outlaw Ranch Care and the Country Living Academy:  https://outlawranchcare.com  Listeners of the Farming on Purpose Podcast can also receive a 50% off for the annual membership using the special code FP50.  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.      Other Episodes You May Enjoy  Episode #127: Why Farm Succession Planning Can’t Wait  A conversation about the urgency of farm and ranch succession planning and what happens when the next generation isn’t prepared to take over. This episode explores the scale of land expected to transition in the coming decades and why preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders matters more than ever.  Episode #125: Raising More Than Livestock: Building a Multi-Generation Direct-to-Consumer Farm Business  Nola and Mikaela Schultz share how they built Schultz Country Market and created a direct-to-consumer meat business that supports both their family and their farm.  Episode #73: Income Streams, Marketing Beef, and Taking the Leap with Rancher Jess  Jess Perez shares how she built a cow-calf operation while selling beef directly to consumers and building a digital audience.    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“Farmers markets are great — but they’re a narrow pipe between farmers and consumers.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Dan Brunner, founder of Market Wagon, to talk about one of the biggest challenges in local food systems: distribution.  Dan comes from a background in software and logistics, but his interest in food systems goes back decades. Long before grocery delivery was common, he believed consumers would eventually buy more of their food online. When he met a farmer who shared a similar vision, they partnered to launch Market Wagon in 2017 — a platform designed to connect local farmers and food producers directly with consumers through an online marketplace and delivery network.  We talk about the hidden complexity of the modern grocery supply chain, why farmers markets alone can’t scale access to local food, and how Market Wagon is widening the connection between producers and consumers.  Dan also shares how the company grew from a single city to serving dozens of regional markets, what the COVID grocery shift revealed about consumer behavior, and why transparency around food production is becoming increasingly important.  This episode is a great listen for producers interested in expanding direct-to-consumer sales, farmers navigating multiple marketing channels, and anyone curious about how local food systems are evolving in the digital age.    Key Topics:  The logistics problems inside the modern grocery supply chain  Why farmers markets represent only a small slice of food distribution  How Market Wagon connects producers and consumers through weekly delivery hubs  The two-sided challenge of building a marketplace for both farmers and shoppers  How COVID accelerated online grocery adoption and local food interest  Inventory management and pricing for farmers selling through the platform  The role of transparency in helping consumers understand how food is produced  Why product diversity actually benefits farmers in a shared marketplace  What producers should know before joining Market Wagon    LINKS  Learn more about Market Wagon:  https://www.marketwagon.com  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode #125: Raising More Than Livestock: Building a Multi-Generation Direct-to-Consumer Farm Business – A conversation with Nola and Mikaela Schultz about building Schultz Country Market and selling farm products directly to customers. This episode dives into pricing, processing challenges, marketing meat, and what it takes to grow a farm business that supports both the family and the land.  Episode #73: Income Streams, Marketing Beef, and Taking the Leap with Rancher Jess – Jess Perez shares how she returned to agriculture and built a cow-calf operation while selling beef directly to consumers. This episode explores online storytelling, building an audience, and creating multiple income streams in agriculture.  Episode #74: Capturing Profit from Heifers with Direct-to-Consumer Beef with Amanda of 2383 Farms – Amanda shares how she found her place in a multi-generation cow-calf operation and started selling beef directly to customers. The conversation covers diversification, building new revenue streams, and the real financial considerations behind direct-to-consumer agriculture.     About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“Every generation of farmers has asked the same question: What do we do with what we have?”  In this solo episode of Farming on Purpose, I take a deep dive into the history of agriculture — not just as a timeline of events, but as a story of resource allocation.  From subsistence survival to the Homestead expansion, through industrialization, the Green Revolution, the 1980s farm crisis, and into today’s era of transition and generational transfer, one theme remains constant: producers must decide how to allocate what is scarce.  In earlier eras, it was labor. Then land. Then machinery. Then knowledge. Then capital. Today? It may be energy, leadership, and continuity.  This episode explores how global events reshaped agriculture in 20-year spans — and why the next 20 years may change more than we realize as 70% of U.S. farmland is expected to change hands.  If you are thinking about transition, sustainability, leadership, or simply trying to build something that lasts — this episode will challenge how you think about your operation.    Key Topics:  The Subsistence & Survival Era: Farming when the margin for error was zero · The Homestead Era: Expansion, ownership, and the belief that growth meant opportunity · Industrialization: Tractors, mechanization, and managing debt as a new resource  · The Green Revolution: Science, yield, and knowledge replacing land as the growth engine  · The 1980s Farm Crisis: Debt, collapse, and the emotional toll rarely discussed  · How farm size grew 200% while the farm population fell 97%  · Why local food sales increased 140% before 2020  · The largest generational land transfer in U.S. history happening right now  · Why management — not land — may be the true limiting factor today  · Sustainability as personal, financial, and generational — not just environmental    Reflection Questions from This Episode:  This episode closes with practical questions every producer should consider:  Where is my energy actually going?    What resources am I protecting — and which ones am I spending without realizing it?    What am I doing out of habit instead of intention?    If I stepped away for six months, what would break?    What problem is my operation actually solving?    Am I allocating resources reactively or strategically?    Am I building something transferable — or something only I can carry?    What resource will matter most in the next 20 years?    What does sustainability really mean in my context?    Who needs to be part of these conversations before they become urgent?  LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.      Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  Farm Succession Planning: Securing Your Family’s Legacy – A practical conversation about transition planning, family communication, and protecting the long-term future of your operation. A strong follow-up to Jace’s insights on decentralized leadership and building a farm that outlasts one generation.  Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-87-farm-succession-planning-securing-your/id1652386715  Marriage, Parenthood & Building a Business – An honest look at building a growing business while raising a family. This episode pairs well with Jace’s discussion on leadership, structure, and creating a business that supports your life instead of consuming it.  Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marriage-parenthood-building-a-business/id1652386715  Year-End Tax Planning and Financial Confidence on the Farm – A finance-focused episode covering taxes, recordkeeping, and strategic cash flow planning. Perfect for listeners who want to go deeper after hearing Jace explain why monthly financial clarity matters.  Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/year-end-tax-planning-and-financial-confidence/id1652386715        About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“You don’t know what you don’t know — and that’s what keeps people up at night.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Jace Young, founder and CEO of Legacy Farmer, to talk about the financial side of agriculture that most producers avoid — until they can’t.  Jace grew up on a multi-million-dollar Kansas farm that ultimately went bankrupt. Years later, working in ag banking — including at the same banks his family once approached — he gained access to the financial documentation behind the collapse. What he discovered changed the direction of his life.  We talk about centralized leadership, pride, emotional decision-making, and why updating your numbers once a year isn’t enough. Jace shares what he sees inside banks today, how loan committees actually think, and why producers who understand their balance sheets have leverage most others don’t.  This episode is a must-listen for producers stepping into leadership roles, families navigating transition, and anyone who wants to build a farm business that outlasts one generation.    Key Topics:  Growing up inside a 14,000-head feedyard and watching it go bankrupt  What ag banking revealed about financial blind spots in farm businesses  Centralized vs. decentralized leadership in agriculture  Why updating financials monthly changes everything  How to build trust (and leverage) with your banker  Farm debt trends and what tightening credit could mean for 2026  Why service-based businesses create stability alongside production agriculture  Exposing financial weaknesses without destroying family relationships  Transition planning through transparency, not secrecy    LINKS  Learn more about Legacy Farmer:  https://www.legacyfarmer.com  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.      Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  Farm Succession Planning: Securing Your Family’s Legacy – A practical conversation about transition planning, family communication, and protecting the long-term future of your operation. A strong follow-up to Jace’s insights on decentralized leadership and building a farm that outlasts one generation.  Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-87-farm-succession-planning-securing-your/id1652386715  Marriage, Parenthood & Building a Business – An honest look at building a growing business while raising a family. This episode pairs well with Jace’s discussion on leadership, structure, and creating a business that supports your life instead of consuming it.  Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marriage-parenthood-building-a-business/id1652386715  Year-End Tax Planning and Financial Confidence on the Farm – A finance-focused episode covering taxes, recordkeeping, and strategic cash flow planning. Perfect for listeners who want to go deeper after hearing Jace explain why monthly financial clarity matters.  Listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/year-end-tax-planning-and-financial-confidence/id1652386715    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“You’re going to make mistakes — and then you’re going to learn from those mistakes.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Hayley Darnielle, owner of Crooked Creek Farms in Montana, to talk about building a diversified, direct-to-consumer farm business from the ground up.  What started as a simple Facebook page and one milk cow has grown into a full-time operation providing raw milk, pork, poultry, eggs, and more to local families. Hayley shares what it’s really like to be a first-generation farmer, how Montana’s Food Freedom Act shaped her business, and why responsibility, transparency, and boundaries matter just as much as growth.  This conversation explores diversification with intention, navigating customer relationships, using grants to fuel growth, and building a farm that supports both family life and long-term sustainability.    Key Topics:  Starting a farm business without growing up in agriculture  How Montana’s Food Freedom Act opened the door for direct-to-consumer sales  Diversifying livestock with purpose and limited acreage  Balancing motherhood, farm work, and business growth  Learning through trial, error, and knowing when to scale back  Building infrastructure as a first-generation producer  Navigating customer expectations and setting boundaries  Using the USDA Value-Added Producer Grant to accelerate growth  Growing two farm operations side by side    LINKS  Follow Crooked Creek Farms and learn more about Hayley’s operation:  https://www.crookedcreekfarmsmt.com  Follow Crooked Creek Farms on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok:  Crooked Creek Farms MT  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy    #122: How Agritourism Is Transforming Farming – A look at how opening the farm to the public through agritourism can create new income streams, strengthen community trust, and support long-term farm sustainability.  #125: Raising More Than Livestock: Building a Multi-Generation Direct-to-Consumer Farm Business – An honest conversation about diversification, family roles, and building a direct-to-consumer business that supports both the farm and the people behind it.  #76: Ag Entrepreneurship & Conviction in Fighting for the Family Farm with Amanda Radke – A conversation about purpose, priorities, entrepreneurship, and building income beyond tradition while staying rooted in agriculture.    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.  Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“You don’t have to have a perfect farm — you just have to open the gate.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Megan Daluge, a fifth-generation Wisconsin dairy farmer and co-founder of Milk’n Mamas, to talk about what diversification really looks like when you’re committed to keeping the dairy — and the family — at the center.  Megan shares how she and her sister navigated family transition, industry pressure, and a tough dairy economy by building multiple income streams alongside their 100-cow dairy. From launching farm camps and agritourism to running a women’s boutique and coaching farmers on social media storytelling, this conversation is an honest look at resilience, creativity, and evolving with purpose.  This episode is a must-listen for farmers, ranchers, and ag entrepreneurs who feel pulled in more than one direction — and want permission to try something new without losing what matters most.    Key Topics:  Navigating family transition on a multi-generation dairy farm    Knowing when “enough cows” is enough    Launching farm camp and agritourism with minimal overhead    Overcoming fear around opening the farm to the public    Diversifying income without abandoning production agriculture    Using social media to tell your farm story without burnout    Setting boundaries, handling criticism, and staying authentic online    Embracing failure, pivots, and being multi-passionate in agriculture      LINKS  Follow Milk’n Mamas on Instagram: @milknmamas  Find Daluge Farm on Facebook  Follow Milk’n Mamas on TikTok  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy    #122: How Agritourism Is Transforming Farming – A look at how opening the farm to the public through agritourism can create new income streams, strengthen community trust, and support long-term farm sustainability.  #125: Raising More Than Livestock: Building a Multi-Generation Direct-to-Consumer Farm Business – An honest conversation about diversification, family roles, and building a direct-to-consumer business that supports both the farm and the people behind it.  #76: Ag Entrepreneurship & Conviction in Fighting for the Family Farm with Amanda Radke – A conversation about purpose, priorities, entrepreneurship, and building income beyond tradition while staying rooted in agriculture.    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“If you don’t start early enough to make a plan, it never takes care of itself.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Heidi Olson, certified farm succession planner and founder of Pathfinder Legacy Advisor, LLC, to talk about why succession planning is about far more than paperwork—and why waiting too long puts both farm families and farmland at risk.  Heidi brings decades of experience in banking, wealth management, trusts, and estate planning, along with firsthand experience navigating succession planning within her own family. We talk through how to start difficult conversations, why communication breakdowns are often the biggest obstacle, and what farm families of every size should be thinking about now as millions of acres of farmland prepare to change hands.    Key Topics:  Why farm succession planning can’t be postponed  The risks of waiting too long to start the conversation  How to structure productive family meetings  Why succession planning is operational—not just legal  Managing control and change across generations  Communication challenges inside family-run operations  Succession planning for small, part-time, or diversified farms  What to look for in a qualified farm succession planner  Preparing the next generation without forcing outcomes    You can learn more about Heidi and her work at pathfinderlegacy.com, or reach out directly at [email protected]. Heidi also hosts the Pathfinder Legacy Podcast, which is linked on her website.    LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:     Episode 87: Farm Succession Planning: Securing Your Family's Legacy  Episode 8: Shifting Seasons in Motherhood and Ranching with Richelle Barrett  Episode 19: Homesteading Skills with a Farm Family with 14 Hands Ranch     About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“You don’t just clock out of agriculture — it’s a lifestyle.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Olivia Harms — a sixth-generation rancher, country-western artist, and self-employed musician balancing life on the ranch with life on the road.  From growing up on a family ranch dating back to 1872, to performing on national television and major rodeo stages, Olivia shares what it really takes to carry Western culture forward while building a creative career. We talk about authenticity in music, advocating for agriculture in urban spaces, navigating burnout, and balancing ranch life, marriage, and a demanding touring schedule.  This episode is a powerful reminder that agriculture and creativity are both lifestyles — not jobs you clock out of — and that staying rooted matters, even when your work takes you far from home.    Key Topics:  Growing up on a sixth-generation ranch and carrying agricultural heritage forward    Using music as a platform to advocate for agriculture and Western culture    Behind-the-scenes realities of national television and music competition shows    Balancing ranch life, marriage, and a self-employed creative career    Burnout, creativity, and reconnecting with what matters most    Writing authentic music rooted in real-life experiences    Advice for dreamers pursuing unconventional or creative careers    LINKS  Follow Olivia Harms and explore her music, tour dates, and merch:  https://www.oliviaharms.com  Follow Olivia on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok:  @oliviaharmsmusic  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.      Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  #120: Finding Where You Belong on the Farm or Ranch – A thoughtful conversation about identity, purpose, and discovering your role within agriculture, especially when your path looks different than expected. Farming on Purpose  #124: Marriage, Parenthood & Building a Business – A real-life look at balancing marriage, family, and entrepreneurship while building a business alongside life in agriculture. Farming on Purpose  #117: Raising Kids, Cows, and Conversations: Paige Dulaney’s Real-Life Look at Ranching, Transition, and Family – Honest stories about family roles, legacy planning, and mixing business with relationships. Farming on Purpose    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:  I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“You can’t raise a cow that only has steaks on it — it doesn’t exist.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Nola and Mikaela Schultz, a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law team behind Schultz Country Market, to talk about what it really takes to build a direct-to-consumer meat business inside a multi-generation farm.  We cover the realities of processing, pricing, inventory management, and marketing — along with the family conversations, faith, and perseverance required to grow a business that supports both the farm and the people behind it.  Nola and Mikaela share honest lessons from launching an on-farm market, navigating processor relationships, learning how to price meat sustainably, and using social media to reach customers far beyond their local community. This episode is a must-listen for anyone exploring direct-to-consumer sales, diversification, or family business transitions in agriculture.    Key Topics:  Transitioning from a multi-generation farm to a direct-to-consumer meat market  Processing challenges and how to work with the right partners  Pricing meat for sustainability — not comparison  Managing inventory, bundles, and value-added products  Using Facebook Live and TikTok to grow a local and regional customer base  Navigating family roles, succession, and hard conversations  Faith, resilience, and staying the course during hard seasons    LINKS  Sign up for the Schultz Country Market shipping waitlist:  https://www.schultzcountrymarket.com  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy:     #117: Raising Kids, Cows, and Conversations: Paige Dulaney’s Real-Life Look at Ranching, Transition, and Family – Honest stories about family roles, legacy planning, and mixing business with relationships. Farming on Purpose    #74: Capturing Profit from Heifers with Direct-to-Consumer Beef with Amanda of 2383 Farms – A deep dive into selling beef direct to consumers, including challenges and pricing decisions. Farming on Purpose    #76: Ag Entrepreneurship & Conviction in Fighting for the Family Farm with Amanda Radke – An entrepreneurial exploration of finding purpose, priorities, and diversified income on the farm.     About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

Finding your place in agriculture isn’t always simple—or straightforward. In this special mashup episode of Farming on Purpose, we’ve pulled together stories from past guests who share how they discovered (and sometimes redefined) their role on the farm or ranch. From balancing family dynamics and business decisions, to stepping into unexpected responsibilities, to building side ventures that make staying on the land possible—these voices remind us there’s no one-size-fits-all job description in ag. Their journeys show the heart, grit, and creativity it takes to carve out a role that fits both your skills and your dreams.  Listen to the full interviews:  Episode #8 Shifting Seasons in Motherhood and Ranching with Richelle Barrett  Richelle Barrett  https://www.facebook.com/theprairiecrocus  https://www.prairie-crocus.com/    Episode #15 Developing Routines for Ranch Roles and Profitability with Marli Scarborough   Marli Scarborough   https://www.instagram.com/marliscarborough/    Episode #21 Systems for Managing Life & Work on the Farm with Natalie Egger  Natalie Egger  https://www.instagram.com/natalie_egger_consulting/  www.eggerconsulting.ca     Episode #109 Building a Future on the Farm: How One Rancher Found Her Own Path Home   Lettie Nickell  https://lettienickell.com/   https://www.facebook.com/mcbarmeatco  https://www.instagram.com/lettienickell/#    LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:  I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

Starting a farm from the ground up isn’t easy—but it’s possible. In this episode, I pulled together stories from beginning farmers who are doing just that. Some bought back family ground. Others started with just a few acres, raising food for their own families and learning as they went. A few had help, and many didn’t. But every single one had to work through doubts, learn from failure, and find their own way forward. These are the stories of grit, family, long days, and the kind of deep belief it takes to build something that lasts. Whether you’re dreaming of your first 10 acres or trying to prove yourself in a family operation, I hope this episode reminds you—you’re not alone, and your story is worth building.  Listen to the full interviews:  Episode #103 Building a Ranch From Scratch: How One Family's Faith and Grit Created Their Legacy   Laura Hicks  www.laurahicks.org   www.instagram.com/laura_a_hicks  www.facebook.com/laura.hicks.1884     Episode #77 How Full Time Farming Works for Winding Creek Farms   Harry Frederick  https://www.facebook.com/windingcreekfarmsKY  www.windingcreekfarms.com  https://www.instagram.com/windingcreekfarms/  https://www.tiktok.com/@windingcreekfarms801    Episode #72 Advice from a First-Generation Farmer on Surviving Trends  Joseph Blakeslee  https://www.tiktok.com/@blakesleeacres?_t=8mBoNynbHVy&_r=1  https://youtube.com/@blakesleeacres?si=ZRrEdeM9xztkVK0A  https://www.facebook.com/share/KeVHkkjHNae61BUq/?mibextid=qi2Omg  https://www.facebook.com/share/4AW7ZtymLMnYGcqq/?mibextid=qi2Omg    Episode #99 Working Full Time While Building Her Farm Dream with Brenna Beard   Brenna Beard  https://www.instagram.com/brennabeardfarms/  https://www.youtube.com/@brennabeardfarms      LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.    

“You can do anything you set your mind to. I say that all the time—and I say that as a working mom. There’s judgment, exhaustion, and chaos, but I’m building a legacy for my daughter. She doesn’t know any different—this is just life for her, and that’s what makes it worth it.”  — Penny DuSablon  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Cole and Penny DuSablon, the husband-and-wife team behind Springpoint Company in Newton, Illinois. What started as a 7×16-foot trailer selling livestock feed has grown into a thriving small-town business combining a feed store, western boutique, and trailer dealership — all built on faith, family, and hard work.  We talk about the challenges and rewards of running a business together, parenting while growing a brand, and staying grounded in purpose when life gets hectic. Cole and Penny share what it’s really like to balance marriage, motherhood, and management in modern agriculture — and how trusting the process has shaped both their business and their family.    Key Topics:  Building Spring Point Company from a 7×16 trailer to a storefront    Balancing marriage, motherhood, and business ownership    Taking the leap from job security to entrepreneurship    Navigating small-town retail challenges and loyalty    Mentoring rural youth through part-time employment    The role of faith and community in business growth    Finding hope in the next generation of agriculture      You can find Cole and Penny online for more of their story and daily life behind Springpoint Company:  🐴 Website: springpointco.com  📱 Instagram & Facebook: @springpointco  🎥 TikTok: @pennydusa | @coledusa  LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  Episode 120: Finding Where You Belong on the Farm or Ranch    Episode 119: The First Acres: Honest Lessons from Beginning the Farm Journey    Episode 117: Raising Kids, Cows, and Conversations: Paige Dulaney’s Real-Life Look at Ranching, Transition, and Family    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

“If cash is king, cash flow is queen.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Tressie Mitzner, economist with Kansas Farm Management, to talk about the side of ranching and farming that no one gets excited about—but everyone needs to understand: taxes, recordkeeping, and financial strategy.  Tressie shares how she and her husband built their cow-calf operation from the ground up, why clean records matter more than most producers realize, and how to navigate high- and low-income years without losing sleep. She also breaks down some of the biggest tax code changes coming in 2025–2026 and how they’ll impact family operations across rural America.  Whether you’re new to managing your farm’s books or just ready to take a more confident approach to your financial decisions, this episode will leave you with clarity, encouragement, and a few practical to-dos you can start right away.    Key Topics:  Year-end wrap-up tips for farm and ranch businesses    Managing 1099s, W-2s, and reconciling accounts correctly    Tracking capital assets and depreciation with confidence    Understanding high- vs. low-income year strategies    Smart planning for land, equipment, and future growth    Upcoming 2025–2026 tax updates every producer should know    Finding grace and rhythm in your recordkeeping routine    You’ll walk away from this episode ready to head into tax season with a plan—and a little less dread.      Connect with Tressie  Tressie welcomes questions and conversations from fellow producers and ag professionals.  📧 Email: [email protected]    LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.  Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:     Episode 87: Farm Succession Planning: Securing Your Family's Legacy  Episode 8: Shifting Seasons in Motherhood and Ranching with Richelle Barrett  Episode 19: Homesteading Skills with a Farm Family with 14 Hands Ranch     About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:     I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“I don’t want to spend my short years on this earth doing things that are insignificant.” — Andrew Miller In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Andrew Miller, co-founder and CEO of Tulip Valley Farms in Washington’s Skagit Valley. We talk about the realities of building an agritourism-centered farm business, navigating regulations and community pushback, and choosing a meaningful life rooted in land and legacy. Andrew shares openly about returning home after years in tech, the process of building something his family could be part of, and the unique challenges of running a U-pick tulip farm in an urban-adjacent region where tourism and agriculture collide. His story is equal parts courageous, strategic, and deeply human.   Key Topics: Building a life and business rooted in significance, not just productivity Why agritourism is one of the biggest opportunities in agriculture today Navigating lawsuits, regulations, and zoning challenges as a small farm Turning a flower farm into an immersive experience—not a commodity Balancing family, farming, and off-farm responsibilities What makes U-pick operations successful (and what makes them hard) How to advocate for policies that keep farmland viable Why innovation in ag must happen at the business-model level Finding resilience through community, connection, and purpose Building a future in agriculture your kids can participate in   Learn More About Tulip Valley Farms 🌷 Instagram: @tulipvalleyfarms  🌷 Website: tulipvalley.com  🎙 Listen to Andrew’s podcast: Agri IQ  📧 Connect with Andrew: [email protected]   LINKS The 8-Hour Marketing Plan — Build your one-day marketing roadmap  https://backpocketsocial.com/8hours Marketing Routine Class  https://backpocketsocial.com/plan Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook Group  https://www.facebook.com/farmingonpurpose Shop Farming on Purpose Merch  https://backpocketsocial.com/shop Our recommended software for online sales: Thrivecart  https://backpocketsocial--checkout.thrivecart.com/thrivecart-standard-account/ I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.   Other Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 87: Farm Succession Planning — Securing Your Family’s Legacy Episode 8: Shifting Seasons in Motherhood and Ranching with Richelle Barrett Episode 19: Homesteading Skills with a Farm Family with 14 Hands Ranch   About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright: I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture. Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.   

“Imperfect planning is still better than no planning. If you don’t talk about it now, the people you love are going to be in a really hard spot.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Jessica Groskopf, a Nebraska Extension Economist and fourth-generation farm wife who has spent over a decade helping families navigate some of the toughest conversations in agriculture: estate planning, farm transition, and preparing the next generation to lead.  Jessica blends her professional expertise with her lived experience farming alongside her husband, giving her a unique and deeply practical perspective on what it actually takes to protect a multigenerational operation. We talk about the difference between estate planning and succession planning, how to start when you feel overwhelmed, the six documents every family should gather before meeting with an attorney, and why honest conversations are the foundation of a strong future.  This episode is a must-listen for every generation on the operation — whether you’re thinking about stepping back or stepping in.    Key Topics:  The difference between estate planning and succession planning    The Great Wealth Transfer and why it impacts agriculture so heavily    Why a will is not enough to protect your farm or ranch    How to start transition planning when family dynamics feel complicated    The six critical items to prepare before meeting advisors    Navigating conflict, resistance, or avoidance in the ownership generation    Preparing financially to buy into or buy out the operation    Why difficult conversations lead to stronger families and stronger operations    How to update your plan every 3–5 years or after major life events    Building a future with intention, communication, and shared vision    You can find Jessica on Instagram at @jessicagroskopf for more resources and tools on farm business management.    LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  Episode 117: Raising Kids, Cows, and Conversations: Paige Dulaney’s Real-Life Look at Ranching, Transition, and Family  Episode 115: Farm Accidents, Family, and Being Ready for the Unthinkable  Episode 120: Finding Where You Belong on the Farm or Ranch   About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:  I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

  ”A topic we talk about on the podcast or have talked about several times is the stories that we tell ourselves and how much they matter and shape our daily lives.”  In this episode, I share why the Farming on Purpose podcast is shifting for summer and reflect on the stories we tell ourselves in agriculture. Inspired by The Psychology of Money, I explore how tail events—those rare, life-changing moments—shape our future, and why staying in the game matters more than chasing perfect formulas. It's a heartfelt reminder to keep showing up, even when the path feels uncertain.  Key Topics:  Why the podcast format is shifting for summer  The power of the stories we tell ourselves in farm life and business  Lessons from The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel  Understanding and responding to "tail events"  The importance of staying in the game during uncertain times  Balancing priorities as a mom, entrepreneur, and farmer  How beliefs and habits shape long-term success in agriculture  LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 85: Resiliency: The Secret to Success in Farming and Ranching   Episode 37: Looking Beyond Your Starting Point with Karoline Rose Bohannan   Episode 14: Time vs. Money and Opportunity Cost on the Farm    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.    

 ”We're not six year olds anymore. We're not children anymore. We're adult children and we're trying to raise our families too and continue a legacy. So there has to be grace on both sides.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I visit with Paige Dulaney, a ranch wife and mom of three from northeast Colorado. We talk about balancing motherhood and ranching, the real-life challenges of farm transition, and raising kids to love the land. Paige shares honest insights about building a life in agriculture, bringing kids along for the work, and why open conversations are key to protecting your family's legacy.  Key Topics:  Balancing motherhood, ranch life, and family  Managing cattle across multiple counties  Navigating farm transition with family  Raising kids in agriculture and involving them in daily work  Importance of early conversations about farm succession  Building relationships in agriculture and rural communities  Finding peace with maintaining instead of constant growth  Hope for the future through connection and renewed interest in agriculture    You can find Paige on TikTok for more of her story and a behind-the-scenes look at life on the ranch.  LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 87: Farm Succession Planning: Securing Your Family's Legacy   Episode 8: Shifting Seasons in Motherhood and Ranching with Richelle Barrett   Episode 19: Homesteading Skills with a Farm Family with 14 Hands Ranch     About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

(Insert audio file of the episode (or link to listen on Spotify/Apple Music/etc.)     ”We're trying to create awareness to critical issues and food production that are important to consumers.”  In this episode, I visit with Robby Sansom, CEO of Force of Nature, to explore what regenerative agriculture really means—and why more farmers and ranchers are starting to take a second look. We talk about his journey from corporate life to raising bison, how regenerative practices work in real life, and what shifting toward soil health and lower input systems can look like. Whether you're all-in or just curious, this is a conversation worth hearing.  Key Topics:  Robby’s personal story and how Force of Nature got started  What regenerative ag actually looks like in practice  The real challenges farmers face—and why it’s not about blame  How improving soil health can reduce risk and build long-term resilience  Practical steps for producers who want to explore regenerative approaches  Helping consumers understand the food system without needing a science degree    To connect with Robby or learn more about Force of Nature, check out their website, Instagram, and Twitter.   LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 111: Building a Business That Works for Your Family and Your Farm   Episode 101: From Conventional to Regenerative: One Family's Journey to Building a Sustainable Farm   Episode 93: Finding Your Path to Homesteading: Lessons from Ryan Mitchell's Journey     About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

 “  I think the biggest thing is just starting that conversation and thinking about it and like coming up with a plan that works for you and your family, and that's gonna look different for everybody based on how old your kids are, how much you trust your kids.”  When ER nurse and farm wife Katie Hammock started seeing farm injuries too often in the trauma center, she knew more could be done. In this episode, Katie shares practical tools and life-saving tips every farm family should know—plus how to prepare for emergencies, talk to your kids about safety, and handle the emotional aftermath of farm accidents. It’s a must-listen for anyone raising a family and running a farm.  Key Topics:  Common farm injuries and how to prevent them  Life-saving tools every farm should have (tourniquets, gauze, CPR shields, etc.)  How to respond in the first moments after a serious accident  Emergency planning when kids are with you  Teaching kids about farm safety without causing fear  Mental health after a farm injury—for both the injured and their families  How to direct emergency responders to rural fields or pastures  You can find the safety kits Katie talked about at www.thedairywife.com, and you can follow her on Instagram @thedairywife for more tips and insight.   LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 98: From City Life to Farm Life: How Jessica Lewis Built Back to Roots Farm  Episode 60: Building Great Relationships with Your Rural Veterinarian    Episode 62: Your Life's Bingo Card and Flower Farming with Liz Fiedler of Sunny Mary Meadow Farms    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

” Every little boy wants to be a cowboy when he grows up and so I think that's kind of kinda where it started.”   First-generation rancher Zak Copeland shares how he built a goat grazing and cattle business from the ground up with no family background in ag. From hatching chicks in a basement to running 120 goats for targeted grazing jobs, Zak’s story is all about grit, creative income streams, and chasing freedom. He talks mentorship, land access, building community, and how he's making a ranching dream work one step at a time.  Key Topics:  Starting a ranch from scratch as a first-generation producer  Building a goat grazing business for land management  Using goats to create steady income and support cattle goals  Creative side hustles to fund the ranching dream  The value of mentorship and community in ag  Finding and accessing land through relationships  Balancing risk, freedom, and family in rural entrepreneurship  If you want to follow along with Zak, you can find him on TikTok for The Copelands Farm or check out Idaho Goat Grazers on Facebook.  LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 111: Building a Business That Works for Your Family and Your Farm  Episode 77: How Full Time Farming Works for Winding Creek Farms    Episode 72: Advice from a First-Generation Farmer on Surviving Trends    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

” Just having the confidence and the know-how that, like if something were to happen like 2020 did we'd be good for a while. And I want other people to feel that way too.”   Homesteader and homeschooling mom Emmaline Newton shares how her family transformed three wooded acres into a thriving homestead. From raising their own meat to growing a garden that feeds six, Emmaline dives into what it really takes to build a life rooted in hard work, healing, and purpose. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow, this episode is full of encouragement, real talk, and a whole lot of heart.  Key Topics:  Starting a homestead with little experience or land.  Raising meat animals (beef, pork, poultry) on three acres.  Gardening and food preservation for a family of six.  Involving kids in chores, homeschooling, and entrepreneurship.  Building confidence and healing through homesteading.  Using what you have: low-cost tools, DIY setups, and creative solutions.  Expanding into dairy goats, cut flowers, and community education.  If you want to follow along with Emmaline and her family, you can find her at Whispering Winds Homestead on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.  LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 98: From City Life to Farm Life: How Jessica Lewis Built Back to Roots Farm  Episode 93: Finding Your Path to Homesteading: Lessons from Ryan Mitchell's Journey    Episode 16: Building a Homestead with Terra Larsen of Everest Acres    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

 ” No matter what, if you don't care for your animal, no matter what size of farm, if you don't care for it, it's not gonna produce milk. And if they don't produce milk, then we're out of a job.”   Farming is in yo   In this episode, I talk with Madi Skubal, a fourth-generation dairy farmer in Iowa, about raising kids and cows, returning to her roots, and building a raw milk business with her husband. From early mornings to big life decisions, Madi shares how she's blending family, tradition, and a new vision for the future of farming—one that’s rooted in connection, trust, and doing things the right way.  Key Topics:  Returning to the family farm and choosing a rural life.  Raising young children while working on a dairy.  Adapting the farm to stay current and safe.  Making big decisions about the future of the farm and family.  Launching a raw milk business under Iowa’s new law.  Educating consumers and sharing the real story of dairy farming.  Balancing tradition with innovation in agriculture.  To connect with Madi visit Hilltop Dairy Inc. Facebook and Instagram.   LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 92: Balancing Family, Farm, and Future in Southern Minnesota   Episode 43: Returning to & Growing on the Ranch with Kristin Harms   Episode 65: The Power of Small Farms and Slow Growth with Lane’s End Farm Creamery    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.    

”I feel like it's my chance to tell my story because if I don't tell it, Netflix and Amazon and somebody else is gonna tell it for me. So it's my chance to tell the truth about how we do things here.”   On this episode of Farming on Purpose, Taylor Moyer shares his journey from NASCAR to full-time ranching, proving that creativity and adaptability are key to making a farm thrive. From cattle sales and custom grazing to agritourism, he’s found multiple ways to sustain his operation. Through Land Trust, he offers farm tours and photography sessions, turning his land into an asset beyond production agriculture. His story is a reminder that farming success looks different for everyone.  Key Topics:  Taylor’s journey from NASCAR back to farming.  Balancing tradition with new revenue streams.  Backgrounding, custom grazing, and flexible herd management.  Photography sessions, farm tours, and working with Land Trust.  Addressing liability concerns and the stigma around non-traditional farm income.  Educating visitors and fostering appreciation for farm life.  Balancing business growth with personal goals.  To connect with Taylor visit his website and Instagram. Or learn more about and view listings on Land Trust.   LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 109: Building a Future on the Farm: How One Rancher Found Her Own Path Home  Episode 45: Diversifying the Ranch with Jess at Perigo Hay and Cattle   Episode 73: Income Streams, Marketing Beef, and Taking the Leap with Rancher Jess    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

 ”  That's why I always say things don't happen to you. They happen for you.”  Erica Leubner grew up on a dairy farm, witnessing both the challenges and rewards of multi-generational agriculture. Now a farm business consultant, she helps families navigate farm transitions, communication struggles, and mental health challenges. In this episode, she shares insights on strengthening farm marriages, managing stress, and preparing the next generation for success. Her story is a powerful reminder that farming isn’t just about business—it’s about family.  Key Topics:  Navigating farm transitions and intergenerational planning to ensure long-term success.  Balancing marriage, family, and farm life, especially when one spouse didn’t grow up in agriculture.  Managing stress and mental health in farming, including post-event burnout and communication challenges.  Preparing the next generation by involving kids early and creating opportunities for leadership.  Breaking the stigma around seeking help and fostering stronger relationships in farm families.  To connect with Erica, you can find her onTikTok or email her at [email protected].  LINKS  Join the waitlist for our premier class here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 56: Finding Fulfillment on the Farm through Understanding Your Identity  Episode 17: Mental Health is Not a Dirty Word in Agriculture with Jason Medows   Episode 6: A Look at Identity and Communication on the Family Farm with 6th-Generation Nebraska Farmer Hannah Borg    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

 ” You have to bring value back to the family operation if you want it to be sustainable for future generations.”  When Lettie Nickell moved back to her family’s ranch, she knew she had to create her own path. In this episode, she shares how she built a direct-to-consumer beef business, launched a successful Airbnb and wedding venue, and found balance between motherhood, marriage, and entrepreneurship. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and faith—proving that returning to the farm isn’t just about tradition, but about building a future that works.  Key Topics:  Returning to the family farm and navigating challenges while creating opportunities to make it financially sustainable.  Starting a direct-to-consumer beef business and how Lettie built and grew her meat business.  Building an agritourism enterprise by launching an Airbnb and wedding venue on the ranch.  Balancing motherhood, marriage, and business while managing multiple responsibilities and staying true to her values.  Mindset and growth, overcoming limiting beliefs, embracing change, and speaking life over the operation.  LINKS  Join the waitlist for our premier class here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 92: Balancing Family, Farm, and Future in Southern Minnesota   Episode 93: Finding Your Path to Homesteading: Lessons from Ryan Mitchell's Journey   Episode 62: Your Life's Bingo Card and Flower Farming with Liz Fiedler of Sunny Mary Meadow Farms    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

 ”The story that we believe is vastly more impactful than facts.”    This episode is a fun, laid-back look at life on the farm, juggling motherhood, entrepreneurship, and daily challenges. From the satisfaction of milking a cow to the chaos of keeping a house with four kids clean, I’m sharing what’s working, what’s not, and what’s making life sweeter. Plus, a big investment in seeds for my first real vegetable garden—will it be a success or a disaster? Tune in for real talk, farm life, and a few laughs along the way!  Key Topics:  Life on the farm and the excitement of spring  Balancing motherhood, business, and farm chores  The satisfaction of milking a cow and making dairy products  A simple cleaning hack that saves time with kids  Struggles with marketing a business and staying consistent  Watching kids gain confidence through farm responsibilities  A surprising game-changing kitchen tool for organization  The importance of mindset and the stories we tell ourselves  Investing in seeds for a first real vegetable garden  LINKS  Join the waitlist for our premier class here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 79: Lazy Genius Tips for the Farm  Episode 36: Farm Moms and The Comparison Game  Episode 9: Comparing our Capacity as Farm Moms    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

”The other thing that really just brings joy to me is the little moments of farm life. So whether that's just like checking cows on pasture in the summer, that's some of my favorite memories growing up. And just holding on to those things when the ag economy or other things seem a little heavy, then it's those little moments that I think really grounds a person and why a lot of us are in agriculture.”    Hannah Klitz, owner of Oak Barn Beef and founder of Rural Edge Marketing, shares her journey of building a direct-to-consumer beef business while raising a family. She discusses the challenges of learning processing, managing logistics, and balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship. Through hard work and adaptability, she has grown her business, learned digital marketing, and now helps other rural entrepreneurs. Her story highlights resilience, family values, and the evolving future of agriculture.  Key Topics:  How Hannah built Oak Barn Beef from the ground up.  Navigating butchering, logistics, and working with processors.  Raising a family while running a growing business.  Handling shipping, pricing, and financial sustainability.  Using digital strategies to grow a farm-based business.  The rewards and challenges of a family-run business.  Consumer trends in local food and sustainable practices.    To connect with Hannah, you can find her on Facebook, Instagram, and her website.  LINKS  Join the waitlist for our premier class here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 99: Make Marketing Part of Your Routine  Episode 81: Choosing Your Path  Episode 38: Looking Beyond Your Starting Point with Karoline Rose Bohannan    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

 ” So what we're doing is just teaching farmers, ranchers, anybody really, how to utilize money correctly so that we can make the bank plan B instead of plan A.”   Mary Jo Irmen joins the podcast to discuss how farmers and ranchers can take control of their finances, avoid reliance on traditional banks, and secure their farm’s future. She breaks down the infinite banking concept, estate planning, and strategies to keep family farms in business for generations. With insights on managing cash flow, preparing for transitions, and making smarter financial decisions, this episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about long-term farm success.  Key Topics:  How banks pull funding and leave farmers scrambling.  Using whole life insurance to create liquidity and control farm finances.  Avoiding family disputes and ensuring smooth farm transitions.  Strategies to pass down farms without forcing the next generation into debt.  Making smarter financial decisions to secure long-term success.  If you want to learn more, check out Mary Jo’s website at farmingwithoutthebank.com. To connect with Mary Jo, you can find her on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.   Financial Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Every farm operation is unique, and financial decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified professional.  LINKS  Join the waitlist for our premier class here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 88: Navigating the Changing Landscape of Agriculture: Insights from Economist Ben Brown  Episode 24: The Financial Planning and Grace that Makes Multi Family Farms Possible with Lydia Hiesterman  Episode 4: The Power of Courage in Farm Management Discussions with Elaine Froese    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

 “Just know that spring always follows winter. And sometimes that's the only thing we can hang on to.”   DL Lautenbach shares his heartfelt journey on the Farming on Purpose Podcast, discussing the challenges and triumphs of balancing farming, family, and entrepreneurship. He highlights the power of small victories, embracing honesty, and redefining success on your own terms. From recalibrating his life after struggles to finding joy in everyday progress, DL inspires listeners to lean on their community, celebrate incremental wins, and focus on what truly matters in agriculture and life.  Key Topics:  The challenges and misconceptions of small-scale farming.  The importance of honesty and recalibrating your goals.  Celebrating incremental progress and small victories.  Finding balance between farming, family, and personal well-being.  Leaning on community support and focusing on shared successes.  To connect with DL, you can find him on TikTok and YouTube.   LINKS  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 85: Resiliency: The Secret to Success in Farming and Ranching    Episode 17: Mental Health is Not a Dirty Word in Agriculture with Jason Meadows  Episode 12: Beginning Farming and Resetting Your Farm Practices with DL Lautenbach      About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“I get to pass on a legacy of skills, just like my parents did for me, and just like their, their family that taught them and I get to take it on to the next generation and I hope at the very least they'll teach their next generation.”  Janelle Anderson shares her inspiring journey from rural Wisconsin to building a ranching life in North Dakota and starting fresh on raw land in Tennessee. Balancing family, motherhood, and entrepreneurship, she discusses the challenges of homesteading, mentoring others, and prioritizing food sovereignty. Her story highlights resilience, the importance of passing down skills, and the joy of creating a meaningful life rooted in family and farming.  Key Topics:  Janelle's upbringing in rural Wisconsin and its influence on her life.  Transitioning to a ranching lifestyle in North Dakota and starting from scratch.  The challenges and rewards of balancing family, motherhood, and entrepreneurship.  The move to Tennessee and adapting to life on raw land.  Shifting priorities to focus on family and intentional living.  Mentoring others in homesteading and sharing agricultural knowledge.  Emphasizing food sovereignty and passing down essential skills to the next generation.  Lessons learned about resilience, flexibility, and building a meaningful life.  To connect with Janelle and learn more about simple living, visit her website or find her on Instagram and Facebook. Also, checkout the app Seedtime to help you on your gardening journey!   LINKS  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 98: From City Life to Farm Life: How Jessica Lewis Built Back to Roots Farm    Episode 103: Building a Ranch From Scratch: How One Family's Faith and Grit Created Their Legacy    Episode 93: Finding Your Path to Homesteading: Lessons from Ryan Mitchell's Journey    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“ I sometimes pinch myself. It's hard. Ranching isn't easy. It's not easy and I don't want to give that impression, but to get to do what you love so much and are so passionate about it…”  Laura Hicks started ranching at 19, building from nothing alongside her husband Mike in South Dakota. They went from running others' cattle to developing their own herd while raising two sons who now ranch with them. Through health battles, tough seasons, and the challenges of passing down the operation, Laura's story shows how faith, grit, and family can build something lasting. Her journey from a two-room house with no running water to a successful multi-generational ranch proves that success comes in many forms.  Key Topics:  Starting from scratch at age 19 and building a ranch with no initial land or cattle  Raising kids while ranching - managing safety and developing work ethic  Herd development through replacement heifers and improving cattle temperament  Multi-generational transition - bringing sons into the operation  Diversification through sheep operation   Managing health challenges as a ranch family   Balancing ranch life with other pursuits (writing books, dog trials)  Homeschooling while ranching  Role of faith and community in ranch success  To connect with Laura and learn more about her story, visit her website or find her on Instagram and Facebook.  LINKS  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 68: Getting Started with Stockdogs     Episode 54: Growing a Heritage Sheep Operation in California    Episode 34: Irons in the Fire with Ranch Mom Jesse Thompson    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

  A Note to Parents  Dear listeners,    Tonight's episode is something special - a departure from our usual conversations. As Christmas Eve approaches, I wanted to create something a little different.     This episode is a bedtime story designed to help your little ones settle into sleep on Christmas Eve, beginning with a gentle relaxation exercise and flowing into a story that captures both the wonder of Christmas and the beauty of childhood on the farm. The story's pacing, sound design, and narrative structure are all crafted to help children wind down while feeling connected to the special magic of both Christmas and farm living. Growing up, I often demanded “kitty stories” from my dad which were the adventures of our farm cats, dramatized for long car rides and bed time. I enjoy continuing this tradition of sorts in making up stories about a cantankerous pigeon for my own kids. My own kids often listen to bedtime podcasts with a sci-fi and fantasy theme, and I’ve been wanting to create a farm kid version to take for a test run.    The Story Behind the Story  This story holds a special place in my heart because it's inspired by a real Christmas Eve from when my oldest son was just 16 months old. Our Australian Shepherd, Dezi gave birth to a beautiful set of puppies on Christmas Eve, choosing our couch over the prepared whelping box we had set up. I love how this story shows how the best gifts often come in their own time and their own way - a lesson that seems especially poignant during the Christmas season.    Episode Details  - Runtime: 35 minutes  - Recommended age: 3-10 years  - Best enjoyed: While getting ready for bed on Christmas Eve  - Audio level: Mixed specifically for bedtime listening    Regular Programming Note  Don't worry - we'll be back to our regular farming discussions in our next episode. But tonight, we're taking a moment to share the magic of farm life through a child's eyes.    Wishing all of you a peaceful Christmas Eve and a joyful Christmas morning.    Lexi  Host, Farming on Purpose 

“ So yeah the balance of the family and the business and the farming and all that, just trying to get more systematic and efficient so that we can balance it all.”  Abby and Brooks Bowser started farming conventionally at age 20, but after realizing their corn and soybean operation wasn't sustainable, they transformed their Southern Michigan farm into a regenerative cattle operation. Now they run Bowser Family Farms, raising cattle and pigs on pasture while Abby manages both their retail meat business and a flower farm. Their story shows how determination, adaptation, and family support can help build a thriving small farm.  Key Topics:  Transitioning from conventional to regenerative farming  Small farm financial sustainability  Starting farming at a young age  Balancing multiple businesses (meat retail and flower farming)  Seasonal time management as a farming family  The importance of systematic approaches in agriculture  Learning to adapt and change initial farming plans  Moving from commodity crops to direct-to-consumer sales  Family life while building an agricultural business  Marketing challenges for local farm products  LINKS  Farming on Purpose hits 100 episodes! To celebrate, we're giving away exclusive merch and two fantastic children's books: "A Day on the Farm with Mama" by Andrea LeFevre and "Charlie Learns to be a Cowboy" by Danika Kester.  Enter by December 31st:  Leave a review on Apple Podcasts OR  Share any of our posts to your Instagram story  Winner will be announced January 1st!  Thank you for joining us as we explore success stories in agriculture and build stronger farm families, stronger food systems, and stronger rural legacies. Here's to the next 100 episodes!   Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 84: From Dairy Farm Dreams to Self-Made Farmer: Derek Penrod's Journey  Episode 62: Your Life's Bingo Card and Flower Farming with Liz Fiedler of Sunny Mary Meadow Farms  Episode 80: Barn Restored into Butcher Shop Supports Growing Business Dreams    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“I think the most important thing is focusing on what our priorities are, because those priorities give us a purpose even when goals become unattainable or the course shifts or something happens in life that changes our trajectory. If we know what our priorities are.  We can choose to focus on those every single day.”  After 100 episodes of the Farming on Purpose podcast, this milestone episode reflects on key lessons learned about agriculture, family farming, and finding your path. From starting as a new mom uncertain about her role on a 20-acre farm to now raising the potential seventh generation on family land, the journey highlights how priorities shape daily decisions, patience pays off in farming, and entrepreneurial thinking opens new possibilities in agriculture. This episode celebrates growth while looking forward to future conversations about strengthening farm families and food systems.  Key Topics:  Personal growth journey: Moving from a 20-acre farm to managing a multi-generational family operation  The postpartum transition period and finding new purpose in agriculture  Setting priorities versus focusing only on goals in farming  The reality of timelines in agriculture - why things take longer than expected  Understanding generational farming challenges, especially around transitions  The role of entrepreneurship in modern farming's future  Financial realities: The balance between land payments and cattle payments  The need for more positive storytelling in agricultural media  Building stronger farm families while strengthening the food system  LINKS  Farming on Purpose hits 100 episodes! To celebrate, we're giving away exclusive merch and two fantastic children's books: "A Day on the Farm with Mama" by Andrea LeFevre and "Charlie Learns to be a Cowboy" by Danika Kester.  Enter by December 31st:  Leave a review on Apple Podcasts OR  Share any of our posts to your Instagram story  Winner will be announced January 1st!  Thank you for joining us as we explore success stories in agriculture and build stronger farm families, stronger food systems, and stronger rural legacies. Here's to the next 100 episodes!   Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 85: Resiliency: The Secret to Success in Farming and Ranching  Episode 86: Farm Time Machine - What a Beginning Farmer and Farm Wife Wishes She Knew Sooner   Episode 31: Expanding Local Food Businesses and Food Education with Bruce's Bullseye Farms      About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

 “Some years you're going to make more money than other years and I think as long as you  don't outpace your budget, then you'll end up being just fine.”  Meet Brenna Beard, a beginning farmer who's building her operation while working full-time in ag sales. Starting with just 35 acres of her dad's land, she's doubled her acres and even bought her first piece of ground - all while living 50 minutes from the farm. Her story shows how the next generation is finding creative ways to keep family farms alive, proving you don't need hundreds of acres or fancy equipment to get started in farming.  Key Topics:  Starting small in farming (35 acres to 75 acres)  Managing a full-time career while farming  Family farm transition challenges  Working with custom operators for equipment needs  Trying new farming practices vs traditional methods  Purchasing first piece of farmland  Balancing time between work and farm   Marketing challenges for beginning farmers  Future plans for expansion  Working with family and clear communication  Using vacation time for planting and harvest  Preserving 200-year family farming legacy  Want to follow Brenna's farming journey? Find her on Instagram and YouTube.  LINKS  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    Episode 52: Growing a First Generation Operation with Millennial Rancher Calli Williams   Episode 43: Returning to & Growing on the Ranch with Kristin Harms  Episode 50: Building Your Dream on God's Time Through Daily Dedication     About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.    

“Teaching classes and being able to plant the seed itself for other people to get excited for things that have been lost in our generation has also just been something that has brought  tons of happiness and joy.”   City girl turned farmer Jessica Lewis shares how she built Back to Roots Farm in Thomasville, Georgia, starting with bottle baby goats and growing into a thriving business teaching homesteading skills. With her seven-year-old daughter already sharing her passion for farming, Jessica shows how starting small and being willing to pivot when markets change can lead to success in agriculture, even without prior experience.  Key Topics:  Transition from city life to farming with no prior experience  Starting with bottle baby goats and expanding to multiple enterprises  Adapting business when markets change (from goats to chickens/soaps)  Teaching homesteading skills through classes (soap making, canning)  Balancing farming with family life  The learning curve of starting a farm (mistakes and lessons learned)  Challenge of finding mentors in modern agriculture  Raising children in a farming lifestyle  Operating a small-scale farm vs traditional large-scale operations  Pivoting from production agriculture to education/value-added products  You can find Back to Roots Farm on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit their website to learn more about their classes and products.  LINKS  Land-finding guide: thetinylife.com/fop.   Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    #16 Building a Homestead with Terra Larsen of Everest Acres  #54 Growing a Heritage Sheep Operation in California  #70 For the Kids: From City to Farm        About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.    

“My life does revolve around farming but I also think we have good boundaries where I’m not resentful of that.”   Nebraska farm wife Heather Nienhueser shares her journey from ag banker to stay-at-home mom and entrepreneur. She discusses building a successful family popcorn business, navigating farm transitions, and finding joy in farm life. Through her candid stories about balancing motherhood, business, and farm life, Heather offers practical advice for other farm families – from getting through busy seasons to planning successful generational transitions.  Key Topics:  Farm Life & Family  Business & Entrepreneurship  Farm Transition  Work-Life Balance  Healthcare & Benefits  Home Projects  To connect with Heather, check out her Instagram, blog,  and website.   LINKS  Land-finding guide: thetinylife.com/fop.   Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:    #95 Sisters, Mothers, Ranchers: How Three Women Are Building a Legacy at Giles Ranch Beef #87 Farm Succession Planning: Securing Your Family’s Legacy #86 Farm Time Machine - What a Beginning Farmer and Farm Wife Wishes She Knew Sooner   About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:  I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“The opportunity is out there, you’re just going to have to do a better job than trying to compete with Walmart on price and volume.”  In this episode from the vault, farmer DL Lautenbach shares his journey of rebuilding after losing his 400-head operation in 2008. Starting with just five borrowed calf hutches, he shows how thinking differently and staying scrappy helped him build back up. DL's story reminds us that success in farming isn't always about size - it's about finding creative solutions, putting family first, and defining success on your own terms.  Key Topics:  Starting Over   Creative Problem Solving  Mindset and Lifestyle Changes  Family First Farming  Smart Financial Management   Finding Your Advantage  Modern Market Adaptation  For those looking to connect with the DL Lautenbach, you can find him on TikTok and Facebook.   LINKS  Land-finding guide: thetinylife.com/fop.   Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  #72 Advice from a First-Generation Farmer on Surviving Trends  #57 Living Your Authentic Ag Journey with Matt Brechwald of Off-Farm Income #84 From Dairy Farm Dreams to Self-Made Farmer: Derek Penrod’s Journey   About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:  I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“And it's very important that you're thinking about what's best for the whole family and the whole ranch. Instead of just what's best for you or your individual family.”  Meet the three sisters of Giles Ranch who are redefining what a family cattle operation can look like. From balancing motherhood with ranch work to growing a direct-to-consumer beef business with two retail locations, Jenny, Katie, and Molly share how working together has helped them build something special. Their story shows what's possible when strong family values meet innovative thinking in agriculture.  Key Topics:  Family transition planning  Planning for the next generation  Balancing motherhood and ranch life  Adapting operations around family schedules  Growing their direct-to-consumer beef business  Working together as sisters  Clear division of responsibilities  Supporting each other's families  Sharing their ranch story  Taking care of the land  Building sustainable business models  Creating opportunities for their children    For those looking to connect with the Giles Sisters and learn more about their beef, you can find them on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to check out The Meating Place website.  LINKS  Land-finding guide: thetinylife.com/fop.   Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy:   Episode 66: A Legacy of Direct to Consumer Beef with Callison Ranch  Episode 75: Becoming an Industry with Open Doors with Macey Hurst of Lady Livestock Co  Episode 20:Farm Kid Parenting and Moving the Farm Across State Lines with Kerissa Taylor of 1984 Farms    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“And at the end of the day, the best thing you can do is, as long as you have good intentions, is to put some piece of your story out there because I promise you somebody will find a connection.”  Every farm has a story worth telling, but finding the confidence to share it isn't always easy. In this episode, third-generation cattle woman Ashlynn Jones shares her journey of returning to the family farm and finding her voice as an ag advocate. From winter chores to family transitions, she shows how sharing even simple daily moments can help bridge the gap between farmers and consumers.  Key Topics:  Transitioning back to the family farm  Finding confidence to share your ag story on social media  Starting with one platform and building from there  Women in agriculture  The importance of showing daily farm life  Supporting different farming methods  Connecting with consumers who are generations removed from farming  Managing cattle during extreme weather  Family legacy in agriculture  For those looking to connect with Ashlynn and learn more about her journey, you can find her on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.  LINKS  Land-finding guide: thetinylife.com/fop.   Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  Episode 1: Collaborating for Progress in Ranching with Cassidy Johnson  Episode 62: Your Life’s Bingo Card and Flower Farming with Liz Fielder of Sunny Mary Meadow Farms   Episode 47: Building Connections with Strong Ag Women with Jana Earp    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.    

“This is what I describe simple living as, it’s figuring out what you want to focus on and doing more of that while figuring out what you want to focus less on or there’s a distraction and eliminating those things.”  Creating a life that aligns with your values is important. That's why I was thrilled to chat with Ryan Mitchell on the Farming on Purpose podcast. Ryan's journey from city living to homesteading offers valuable insights for anyone dreaming of a simpler, more fulfilling life on the land.  The Wake-Up Call  Ryan's story began in 2009 when he lost his job during the Great Recession. This setback made him question the traditional path of success he'd been taught to follow. Instead of getting discouraged, Ryan saw an opportunity to reshape his life around what truly mattered to him.  The Tiny House Solution  To reduce his living costs and gain more freedom, Ryan decided to build a tiny house. This bold move allowed him to:  Cut his housing expenses in half  Focus on his own projects and travel  Save money for his ultimate goal: owning land for a homestead  The Long Game: Saving for Land  Ryan's journey to land ownership wasn't quick or easy. It took years of careful planning and saving. Here are some key strategies he used:  Living below his means in the tiny house  Using solar power to eliminate electricity bills  Growing his own food to reduce grocery costs  Starting a website (thetinylife.com) to share his journey and create additional income  Finding the Right Property  After 15 months of active searching, Ryan finally found his perfect piece of land. His advice for other aspiring homesteaders:  Get crystal clear on your needs and wants for the property  Be realistic about how much land you actually need  Network and spread the word about your search – you never know where the right lead might come from  Do your due diligence – in Ryan's case, a survey revealed an opportunity to negotiate a significant price reduction   I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find the right piece of land to start or expand your operation. That's why I'm excited to share a valuable resource I've helped create with thetinylife.com. We've put together a comprehensive guide full of innovative ideas for finding land, no matter where you are in your farming journey. Whether you're just starting out, looking to expand, or hoping to carve out your own space on an existing family farm, this guide has something for you. You'll discover new avenues to explore and strategies you might not have considered before. As a bonus, thetinylife.com offers a wealth of information on minimalism, gardening, and property planning – all great tools for any farmer. To access this land-finding guide, just visit thetinylife.com/fop.   Overcoming Societal Pressure  One of the biggest challenges Ryan faced was resisting the urge to conform to society's definition of success. He encourages others to:  Take a step back and objectively evaluate your current life  Write out what your perfect day looks like, from morning to night  Focus your time, money, and energy on activities that bring you closer to your goals  Eliminate distractions and things that don't align with your vision  Practical Tips for Getting Started  If you're feeling inspired to start your own homesteading journey, Ryan recommends:  Get your finances in order – pay off debt and build savings  Start small – you don't need a huge property to begin homesteading  Learn new skills gradually – whether it's gardening, animal care, or building  Connect with like-minded people for support and advice  The Rewards of Perseverance  While Ryan's path wasn't always easy, the rewards have been immense:  Freedom from financial stress  More control over his time and daily life  The ability to travel and pursue passion projects  A deep sense of accomplishment in building the life he truly wants  I find Ryan's story incredibly inspiring. It reminds me that with patience, hard work, and a clear vision, we can create a life that nurtures both our families and our entrepreneurial spirits.  To connect with Ryan, check out his website or his YouTube.    More from Farming on Purpose  If you are interested in signing up for the Marketing Routine class, do so here!  If you would like to support the podcast or be a part of the conversation join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page. Check out our favorite software tool for clients and our website!  Thrivecart is a software tool you can use to design online checkouts with every option you can dream up. You can sell physical and digital products, connect to loads of other softwares you use for your website, accepting payments, email marketing, and more. This is the most powerful tool I use and the lowest cost one. I recommend it for anyone who accepts online payments who wants to increase their revenue or average order value.  Visit ThriveCart I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.   Other Episodes You May Enjoy! #16 Building a Homestead with Terra Larsen of Everest Acres #59 Start Homesteading in Your Kitchen with Meghan Gates #65 The Power of Small Farms and Slow Growth with Lane’s End Farm Creamery   About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:  I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.  I’m so glad you’re here and I hope you’ll take a moment to join the conversation with me and other listeners on social media.   Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“If you trust the process, the process will reward you back.”  As a sixth-generation cattle farmer in Southern Minnesota, Haley Ammann-Ekstrom knows a thing or two about juggling responsibilities. She farms alongside her husband and father, manages a cow-calf herd, and has recently ventured into selling beef directly to consumers. But what makes Haley's story truly inspiring is her passion for educating the younger generation about agriculture and her determination to keep her family's farming legacy alive.  Finding Her Path Back to the Farm  Haley's journey back to the family farm wasn't a straight path. After high school, she initially pursued cosmetology. However, a chance conversation with a multi-generation crop farmer sparked something in her. "I went home and told my parents, 'Come Monday morning, I'm going to quit my job and go back to school for Ag Business Management,'" Haley recalls.  This decision led her to earn a four-year degree while working part-time on the farm. In 2015, following the passing of her grandfather, Haley seized the opportunity to start her own cattle herd and partner with her father.  Balancing Off-Farm Work and Farming  Like many modern farming families, Haley and her husband both work off the farm. Haley works in sales at the local farmers' co-op, while her husband is a power linesman. Her father works at a local back clinic in the beef department.  "It's hard because there are so many times where it's like, 'Gosh, if just one of us was here full time, think of all the stuff we could get done,'" Haley shares. However, she acknowledges that their off-farm jobs currently make their farming dream possible. "We couldn't do this if we didn't have those jobs."  Embracing Innovation and Sustainability  Haley and her family are always looking for ways to improve their operation. They've recently started implementing cover crops, which have been great for their soil health. "We ended up chopping like the 12th of September this year, and then we drilled that cereal rye right after," Haley explains. "Those are things that you have to be willing to gamble on."  They're also exploring ways to make their cattle operation more efficient, including using artificial insemination to improve their herd genetics and considering building a hoop barn for calving and finishing cattle.  Educating the Next Generation  Haley's passion for agriculture extends beyond her own farm. She's actively involved in educating young people about where their food comes from. "I'd rather be able to tell someone where their food comes from and have those conversations than them guess and be wrong or turn to the internet," she says.  Her commitment to education has led her to work on a series of children's books about agriculture, with the first one set to launch in 2025. "I think it's such a huge part of kids to be reading and to have real-life agricultural books that get people excited," Haley enthuses.  Looking to the Future  As Haley looks to the future, she has big plans for both her farm and her career in agriculture. She hopes to continue growing their meat program, expand their herd, and eventually have at least one family member working on the farm full-time.  "I hope that I can still kind of be taking on some of these mentorship leadership programs and take that a step further," Haley says. She's also excited about the potential of her children's books to both educate and provide an additional income stream for her family.  Embracing the Challenge  Haley's story is a testament to the grit and determination of modern farmers and ranchers. She's not afraid to take risks, whether it's changing careers, trying new farming practices, or venturing into direct-to-consumer beef sales.  Her advice to others? "Trust the process. The process will reward you back." It's this attitude that keeps Haley moving forward, balancing family, farm, and future with grace and determination.  As we look at the challenges facing agriculture today, stories like Haley's remind us of the passion and innovation driving the industry forward. It's farmers like her who are ensuring that future generations will have both food on their tables and a connection to where that food comes from.  If you would like to connect with Haley, check out her Facebook and Instagram.  More from Farming on Purpose  If you are interested in signing up for the Marketing Routine class, do so here!  If you would like to support the podcast or be a part of the conversation join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page. Check out our favorite software tool for clients and our website!  Thrivecart is a software tool you can use to design online checkouts with every option you can dream up. You can sell physical and digital products, connect to loads of other softwares you use for your website, accepting payments, email marketing, and more. This is the most powerful tool I use and the lowest cost one. I recommend it for anyone who accepts online payments who wants to increase their revenue or average order value.  Visit ThriveCart I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.   Other Episodes You May Enjoy! #23 Our Food Supply Chain and the Farm to Fork Gap of Food Accessibility #43 Returning to & Growing on the Ranch with Kristin Harms #76 Ag Entrepreneurship & Conviction in Fighting for the Family Farm with Amanda Radke      About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:  I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.  I’m so glad you’re here and I hope you’ll take a moment to join the conversation with me and other listeners on social media.   Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

“What is so understood to you is not understood to the average person. And I know that sounds really silly as especially multiple generations. Like it's just. It's so ingrained in everything, that outside perspective, like you're missing it. And that's one of the things that I will say as coming in from a total outside perspective, what I didn't know, I realized somebody else didn't know too. So I had to figure out how to communicate it.”  As a farmer myself, I love sharing stories of other folks who are making waves in agriculture. Today, I want to introduce you to Lindsay Graham, a first-generation farmer who's built a thriving business from scratch. Her story is all about family, hard work, and thinking outside the box.  Starting from Scratch  Lindsay and her husband Dustin didn't grow up on farms. They were city folks who dreamed of owning land. One day, they decided to just go for it. They bought a small property and jumped right in.  "We always talked about owning land, but like everybody says that," Lindsay told me. "We got married young and just continued to buy a little home and fix it up and move to the next home."  Their farm journey started simply: they got some pigs, then sheep, then cows, and chickens. They learned as they went, making plenty of mistakes along the way.  Building a Business  What started as a hobby grew into something much bigger. Today, Graham Acres supplies over eight stores and restaurants and does weekly doorstep deliveries across Northeast Oklahoma. They raise chickens, pigs, and sheep, offering high-quality meat to their community.  Lindsay didn't set out to create a big business. It happened naturally as demand grew. "The numbers made us get to that," she explained. "With meat chickens, we raised the very first time, like 25 for ourselves. And then it was like 50. And then it was 100."  As they scaled up, they had to keep improving their setup. What started as a small brooder for 20 chicks turned into a system that can handle over 1,000 birds on pasture at a time.  Family First  One thing that struck me about Lindsay's story is how she and Dustin put their family first. When everyone told them they had to do farmers markets to sell their products, Lindsay said no.  "It's just not fair for our family," she told me. "Monday through Friday, Dustin and I work nonstop. The kids go to school. And then Saturday we do a bunch of chores. And then Sunday we like try to talk to God and talk to each other at least a little bit."  Instead of markets, Lindsay focused on social media marketing and deliveries. This approach let her build the business while still having time for her family.  The Challenge of Working with Your Spouse  Lindsay was honest about the challenges of running a farm business with your spouse. "If somebody started a business on marriage counseling, where instead of sitting on a couch, you would take the people and put them in some type of high-stress animal operation and just observe, you would be able to highlight all of their communication problems," she said.  Her advice? Don't grow so fast that you forget to take care of your marriage. It's easy to get caught up in the business and forget about the most important partnership of all.  Making Farm Products Convenient  One of the keys to Graham Acres' success is how they've made buying from them easy. Lindsay realized they weren't competing with big store prices – they were competing with big store convenience.  "If you can figure out how to be convenient, you will win the game," she told me. This means having a clear website, clear instructions, and reliable delivery.  Looking to the Future  Graham Acres isn't slowing down. They're expanding to new land, bringing in beef through partnerships, and even thinking about opening a storefront. Lindsay's passion is clear when she talks about building a network of local producers.  "We have siloed too much. We've overcomplicated too much," she said. "It is not that hard for all of us that are doing stuff. There are people growing vegetables all the time that have no avenue to sale. It's not enough for a farmer's market. They have no interest in Facebook. Why aren't they selling through a co-op type of thing?"  Lessons for Other Farmers  Lindsay's story has some great lessons for anyone thinking about starting or growing a farm business:  Start small and learn as you go  Put your family first  Find ways to make buying from you convenient  Use social media to connect with customers  Be open to partnerships  Keep a close eye on your numbers  Don't be afraid to do things differently  If you want to follow Lindsay's journey, you can find Graham Acres on Facebook and Instagram. Her story shows that with hard work, creativity, and a focus on family, you can build a successful farm business from the ground up.  More from Farming on Purpose  If you are interested in signing up for the Marketing Routine class, do so here!  If you would like to support the podcast or be a part of the conversation join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page. Check out our favorite software tool for clients and our website!  Thrivecart is a software tool you can use to design online checkouts with every option you can dream up. You can sell physical and digital products, connect to loads of other softwares you use for your website, accepting payments, email marketing, and more. This is the most powerful tool I use and the lowest cost one. I recommend it for anyone who accepts online payments who wants to increase their revenue or average order value.  Visit ThriveCart I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.   Other Episodes You May Enjoy! #16 Building a Homestead with Terra Larsen of Everest Acres #36 Farm Moms and The Comparison Game #70 For the Kids: From City to Farm   About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:  I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.  I’m so glad you’re here and I hope you’ll take a moment to join the conversation with me and other listeners on social media.   Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“This idea of how all the different sizes of farms co-exist in agriculture today is one of the biggest problems that we have the opportunity to solve.”  I often find myself thinking about the future of agriculture and where family farms fit into the bigger picture. With fewer small farms and more large operations, it's a topic that's close to my heart and crucial for our industry.  The Numbers Tell a Story  Let's look at some eye-opening facts:  In 2023, there were 1.9 million farms in the U.S., down from 2.2 million in 2007.  In 2022, farms of all sizes decreased except for those with 5,000 acres or more.  Half of all farms had less than $10,000 in sales, and 81% had less than $100,000 in sales.  Family farms made up 97% of all farms in the U.S.  These numbers paint a picture of an industry that's changing fast. Even more so when you look at the production from each size class of farm.  Small family farms (making less than $350,000 a year) produce 18% of the total value but account for most of the hay and nearly half of the poultry and eggs.  Mid-sized family farms ($350,000 to $1 million) produce 19% of the total value.  Large-scale family farms (over $1 million) produce 52% of the total value and lead in most major crops.  The Reality Behind the Numbers  When we say 97% of farms are family-owned, it sounds great. But the truth is, most of these farms aren't making enough to support a family on their own. This isn't the picture most of us grew up with or learned about in 4-H and FFA.  As a mom and a farmer, I worry about what this means for our kids and the future of farming. We're treating farms of all sizes the same way, with the same rules and markets. But is that smart?  Finding a Way Forward  So, what can we do? Let's dive deeper into some solutions:  Be open to new perspectives: We need fresh ideas from both inside and outside farming. Let's welcome new voices and be willing to learn. This might mean partnering with tech companies to develop farm-specific apps or working with local chefs to create value-added products.  Rethink diversification: Instead of stretching ourselves thin with many products, let's focus on doing one or two things really well. Then, we can add related services or products to that niche. For example, if you're great at raising grass-fed beef, consider offering farm tours or beef cooking classes. Or partner with a local brewery to use your grain in specialty beers.  Collaborate in new ways: Co-ops have always been important in farming. Now, we need to think about new ways to work together, especially in food processing and marketing. This could mean forming a group of small farms to jointly invest in processing equipment or creating a shared brand for local products. Online farmers' markets or community-supported agriculture programs can also help small farms reach more customers.  Embrace direct-to-consumer marketing: Use social media and e-commerce platforms to tell your farm's story and sell directly to customers. This cuts out middlemen and allows you to capture more of the food dollar.  Explore agritourism: Turn your farm into a destination. Offer pick-your-own produce, farm stays, or educational workshops. This not only provides additional income but also helps create a connection between consumers and where their food comes from.  Invest in sustainable practices: Implement regenerative agriculture techniques or consider organic certification. These practices can lead to premium prices for your products and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.  Seek out niche markets: Identify unique products or services that larger farms might overlook. This could be heritage breed livestock, heirloom vegetables, or specialty crops for local ethnic markets.  A Pivotal Moment  In the next 15-20 years, up to 70% of farmland will change hands. This is huge! It's a chance for real change if we insist on it. I believe we need to push for stronger farms, stronger families, and a stronger food system. We need to be stubborn about our values but open to new ideas.  This fall, I'll be sharing stories from farmers and ranchers who are making it work. They'll talk about their successes, challenges, and how they're building a future in farming.  Let's work together to create an agriculture industry that supports our families, feeds our communities, and gives our kids a chance to carry on this vital role. The future of family farming depends on it.    More from Farming on Purpose  If you are interested in signing up for the Marketing Routine class, do so here!  If you would like to support the podcast or be a part of the conversation join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Visit ThriveCart - I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  You may also enjoy… #12 Beginning Farming and Resetting Your Farm Practices with DL Lautenbach #45 Diversifying the Ranch with Jess at Perigo Hay and Cattle #62 Your Life's Bingo Card and Flower Farming with Liz Fiedler of Sunny Mary Meadow Farms    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:   I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.  I’m so glad you’re here and I hope you’ll take a moment to join the conversation with me and other listeners on social media.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“If you don’t send it out, if you don’t publish it, it doesn’t happen. You can’t learn from it. You have to push “go” to learn from it.”  As a farmer's wife, mother, and business owner, I understand the challenges of juggling multiple responsibilities while trying to grow your farm or ranch. Marketing often falls to the bottom of our to-do lists, but it's crucial for our success. Today, I want to share some practical tips on how to make marketing a manageable part of your routine.  Why Marketing Matters for Your Farm or Ranch  Marketing isn't just about selling products; it's about sharing your story, connecting with customers, and building a sustainable future for your family farm. As farmers and ranchers, we're not just business owners – we're caretakers of a legacy, passing down knowledge and values to the next generation.  Start with the Basics: Your Marketing Foundation  Before diving into complex strategies, let's focus on creating a solid foundation:  Choose Your Source of Truth: Pick one main place where customers can find accurate information about your farm or ranch. This could be your website, email list, or even a social media page. Whenever you communicate with customers, direct them to this one source.  Create a Simple Template: Make something easy to replicate for your marketing messages. It could be a basic graphic design, an email template, or a list of common questions and answers. The goal is to save time and maintain consistency.  Establish a Routine: Think about what your customers need to know, when they need to know it, and how often. Maybe it's a weekly email update or a monthly social media post about what's happening on your farm.  Making Time for Marketing  As busy farmers and ranchers, finding time for marketing can be tough. Here's how to fit it into your schedule:  Plan: Set aside time each month to plan your marketing topics, collect important dates, and set goals.  Create: Schedule time to actually make your marketing materials, whether it's taking photos, writing posts, or designing flyers.  Publish: This is crucial! Make sure you have dedicated time to share your marketing materials. It doesn't count if it never reaches your customers.  Growing Your Marketing Efforts  Once you have a basic routine in place, you can start to expand:  Add New Ways for People to Find You: This might mean trying a new social media platform or advertising in a different publication.  Create More Opportunities to Connect: Offer more chances for customers to get to know you and your farm better.  Finding Help When You Need It  If you're struggling to keep up with marketing on your own, consider these options:  Ask college students who need internships  Reach out to local programs with overlapping goals  Mentor FFA or 4-H members who need projects  Engage your most enthusiastic customers to help spread the word  Avoiding Common Marketing Pitfalls  As you develop your marketing strategy, watch out for these common traps:  Don't compare your marketing to others – focus on what works for your farm and family Remember to grow your in-person network, not just your online presence  Avoid expensive software – free or low-cost options often work just fine  Set goals and track your progress  Don't waste time on strategies that don't fit your lifestyle or farm  Making Your Content Stand Out  When creating marketing materials, keep these tips in mind:  Be informative: Include all necessary details  Use visuals: People remember images better than text  Include a call to action: Tell people what you want them to do next  Give each piece a purpose: Know why you're creating it  Your Marketing Homework  If you take one thing from this post, let it be this: Determine your "source of truth" – that one place where customers can find accurate information about your farm or ranch. Make sure this information is included in all your marketing efforts.  Remember, as farmers and ranchers, we're not just marketing products – we're sharing our family's story, preserving our heritage, and building a future for the next generation. By making marketing a regular part of our routine, we can ensure that our farms and ranches continue to thrive for years to come.  If you are interested in signing up for the Marketing Routine class, do so here!  If you would like to support the podcast or be a part of the conversation join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for clients and our website!  Thrivecart is a software tool you can use to design online checkouts with every option you can dream up. You can sell physical and digital products, connect to loads of other softwares you use for your website, accepting payments, email marketing, and more. This is the most powerful tool I use and the lowest cost one. I recommend it for anyone who accepts online payments who wants to increase their revenue or average order value.  Visit ThriveCart - I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.  You may also enjoy… #57 Living Your Authentic Ag Journey with Matt Brechwald of Off-Farm Income #67 Diversifying Your Cattle Income for Operation Growth with Neilson Beef #75 Becoming an Industry with Open Doors with Macey Hurst of Lady Livestock Co    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:   I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.  I’m so glad you’re here and I hope you’ll take a moment to join the conversation with me and other listeners on social media.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

“I continuously am impressed with young producers and beginning producers alike of their determination and their resiliency. If they want to be a part of this industry and they want to live in rural America, and they want to find a way to help be on the farm, they have to come up with very innovative things.”  As a farmer and podcast host, I'm always eager to learn from experts in our field. Recently, I had the pleasure of catching up with my college friend Ben Brown, now an agricultural economist at the University of Missouri. Our chat was filled with valuable insights about the current state of farming and what the future might hold for us.  Ben and I go way back to our days at Kansas State University. Now, he's doing important work that affects all of us in agriculture. He studies things like crop insurance, government farm programs, and how farmers can make smart financial decisions.  The Ups and Downs of Farming Today  We started by talking about the challenges many farmers are facing right now. Ben explained that we're in a time where crop prices are lower, but the costs of running a farm haven't dropped as much. This is putting a squeeze on many farmers, especially younger ones who are just starting out.  But here's the thing – Ben says this isn't new. Farming has always had its ups and downs. He reminded me of something one of our college professors said years ago: it's always tough for young farmers to get started during times like these. But that doesn't mean it's impossible.  Getting Creative in Agriculture  What really got me excited was hearing about how farmers, especially younger ones, are finding new ways to succeed. They're not just sticking to traditional crops and methods. Instead, they're exploring niche markets, trying out specialty crops, and selling directly to consumers.  As a mom and a farmer myself, I know how important it is to be creative and adaptable. Ben shared stories of his students starting all sorts of unique businesses – from earthmoving companies to popcorn farms, and even raising llamas for wool!  The Changing Face of Farm Policy  We also talked about farm policy, which can seem pretty complicated sometimes. Ben pointed out that many of the policies that affect us as farmers are changing. They're not just about the farm bill anymore. Now, we need to pay attention to things like trade agreements, environmental regulations, and even tax laws.  This might sound overwhelming, but Ben had some great advice. He said it's important for farmers to stay informed and to think about how these changes might affect our businesses. It's not about predicting the future, but about being ready to adapt when things change.  Building Skills for Success  So, what can we do to set ourselves up for success? Ben highlighted two key areas:  Understanding finances: Being able to create and understand financial statements is crucial. It helps us make smart decisions about our farms and families. Building partnerships: As farming becomes more connected, it's important to build good relationships – not just with our neighbors, but with everyone in the agriculture industry.  As a mother and farmer, I know how important these skills are. They help us provide for our families and build businesses that can last for generations.  Looking to the Future  What struck me most about our conversation was Ben's optimism. Yes, farming is changing, but that also means there are new opportunities. Whether it's using new technologies, exploring different crops, or finding innovative ways to market our products, there are always possibilities for those willing to adapt and work hard.  For those of us balancing family life with running a farm, this message is especially important. We're not just working for ourselves – we're building a future for our children and our communities.  Ben's parting advice really stuck with me: "Stay committed in the tough times, and stay disciplined in the good times." As farmers, parents, and entrepreneurs, that's a motto we can all live by.  If you want to learn more from Ben, you can find his work through the University of Missouri's extension website or follow him on social media. He even does a weekly video about grain marketing that's free for anyone to watch.  Remember, fellow farmers and ranchers, we're all in this together. By staying informed, being creative, and supporting each other, we can face whatever challenges come our way. Here's to growing strong farms and even stronger families!  If you want to connect with Ben, check out his Twitter or visit his University of Missouri staff page to read his publications.   If you would like to support the podcast or be a part of the conversation join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for clients and our website!  Thrivecart is a software tool you can use to design online checkouts with every option you can dream up. You can sell physical and digital products, connect to loads of other softwares you use for your website, accepting payments, email marketing, and more. This is the most powerful tool I use and the lowest cost one. I recommend it for anyone who accepts online payments who wants to increase their revenue or average order value.  ThriveCart Link: https://backpocketsocial--checkout.thrivecart.com/thrivecart-standard-account/  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.   You might also enjoy...  #14 Time vs. Money and Opportunity Cost on the Farm #53 Ranching with an Eye on Financial Feasibility #73 Income Streams, Marketing Beef, and Taking the Leap with Rancher Jess    About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:    I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    I’m so glad you’re here and I hope you’ll take a moment to join the conversation with me and other listeners on social media.     Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.