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.    

  ”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 ericaqleubner@gmail.com.  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.