When conflict hits close to home — whether it’s in the barnyard, the boardroom, or around the family table — it can feel personal and painful.
In this episode of The Rural Well, Bridget and Lauren open up about what it means to feel attacked, exploring how old wounds, sarcasm, and control dynamics show up in rural life and multigenerational farm families.
We talk practical wisdom, recognizing boundaries, changing harmful patterns, and reclaiming peace — without losing heart or heritage.
Lauren shares a personal high school bullying story — and how it shaped her understanding of conflict.
Bridgette and Lauren unpack “adult bullying” in farm settings — from land deals to family disagreements.
How to tell the difference between conflict (shared goals) and boundaries (self-protection).
Why sarcasm can be a “safe” way of hurting others — and how to stop using it.
The family scapegoat dynamic: what it is, how it forms, and how to break it.
A reminder that bullying isn’t a “rite of passage” — it’s a learned behavior we can unlearn.
A lighthearted closing question: If you could send your income tax dollars anywhere, where would they go? (Spoiler: Convoy of Hope, FFA, Compassion Canada, and Farm Rescue all get some love.)
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
This episode is sponsored by our friends at @agproworkwear (Advertisement at 1:58). Be sure to check them out at http://www.agproworkwear.com
In this episode, Bridgette and Lauren sit down with Ashley Nicolls, founder of Reach Agriculture Strategies, to explore how better communication and organizational health can transform farms and rural life.
Ashley shares how his concept of “low-stress people handling”—inspired by low-stress livestock handling—helps reduce turnover, improve workplace culture, and support mental health in agriculture. From tackling the loneliness epidemic to guiding families through succession planning, he emphasizes that strong relationships and clear communication are just as vital as financial planning.
The conversation also touches on men’s mental health in ag, building community through simple gatherings, and why effective teamwork benefits both people and livestock.
Takeaway: Success in agriculture isn’t just about running it like a business—it’s about recognizing that it is a business, powered by people who thrive when communication and connection come first
Shifting Gears Segment:
We also discuss the quote: “The history of the land is etched in the faces of the farmers who till it.” We explore how joy, pride, hardship, and generational legacy leave visible marks—just like the rings of a tree.
Fun Wrap-Up:
If we could take any job for one month, Bridgette would be Minnie Mouse at Disney World, Lauren dreams of working on a research vessel, and Ashley would pack on horses into the mountains.
Connect with Ashley:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-nicholls-08a003134/
📸 Instagram: @reachagstrategies
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
In this episode, we explore the powerful idea that while women can do it all, they don’t have to. From "Rosie the Riveter" to today’s rural realities, we unpack how historical messages of resilience have quietly become expectations that leave women juggling careers, caregiving, and community roles, often at the expense of their own well-being.
Our conversation highlights the mental health toll, especially post-COVID, when rural women experienced the steepest declines in wellness. We want to stress the importance of shifting from guilt and criticism to encouragement and support, reminding us that “you are enough, and your choices are okay.” Whether pursuing careers, raising families, or balancing both, women thrive when they are cheered on instead of judged.
We also continue our “Catch a Phrase” reflection segment, and of course we want to reinforce our core message: That doing it all is not the standard — joy, balance, and support are.
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
Welcome to The Rural Well!
*Sensitive content warning*
In today’s powerful and heartfelt episode, hosts Bridget and Lauren dive into a conversation that blends the proud heritage of farming with the complexities of mental health. They sit down with Dr. Ryan Burkhart — a farm kid turned mental health leader — who shares his journey from rural Indiana to Colorado, where he now serves as Dean of Counseling at Colorado Christian University.
Ryan opens up about choosing a path away from the family farm, his reflections on faith, resilience, the epidemic of loneliness, and how rural communities can build meaningful connections. Together, they explore how farming values shape compassion, community support, and personal growth — even amid life’s deepest challenges.
The episode also highlights the inspiring work of the Travis Burkhart Foundation, created by Ryan’s family after his brother Travis survived a life-altering brain injury. Their story of turning personal tragedy into community support is one of resilience, faith, and hope.
This candid, thoughtful conversation reminds us all: while rural life has its hardships, it also holds deep strength, connection, and purpose.
- https://www.travisburkhartfoundation.com/
- https://www.ccu.edu/spotlights/faculty/rburkhart/
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
In this episode, we have the privilege of talking with Brett Gardiner, the most awarded western sports announcer in Canadian history.
As the thirteen-time and reigning Canadian Pro Rodeo Announcer of the Year, Gardiner has educated and entertained audiences all across North America. Brett has been behind the microphone at some of the most celebrated events including the Canadian Finals Rodeo, the Calgary Stampede and since 2016 he has been on the PBR Canada Cup Series featured on TSN.
As a Speaker and Advocate, Brett speaks to over a million people annually and currently works many of the industries most celebrated events. But more than that, Brett was High School teacher for 14 years and worked with some of our school systems most complex learners. Over that time Brett learned first hand the importance of building relationships and fostering connection with both students and adults.
After his successful teaching career, Brett would continue on his journey of helping others and obtain a Master of Counselling Psychology Degree and is currently working towards his doctoral degree in Sport and Performance Psychology.
It is this combination of experiences and accolades that have quickly made Brett a strong advocate for mental health, and a highly sought after mental performance consultant and counsellor to many individuals, athletes and organizations. Brett has also become a public speaker in the area of mental health and motivation.
In this episode:
Only 11% of farms have succession plans…it’s important to recognize seasons in your lives
Quote by Anne Bradstreet
"If we had not winter, the spring would not be so pleasant. If we did not sometimes taste adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome”
Finally, What’s your favourite tradition?
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
Welcome back to The Rural Well! In this episode 15, we discuss a very important - yet difficult topic related to grief and loss with Diane Bergsma, a farmer from Ontario.
The topics discussed in this episode may be difficult for some listeners, so be mindful if you are sensitive to certain topics regarding loss and grief.
Todays question: “ We Must Accept Finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope."
We also end the episode with a fun question:
If for 1 month, you could live at any famous residence or house in the entire world, which one would you pick?
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
Welcome back to The Rural Well! In this episode (Part 2), we get the opportunity to talk more with Brian Reisinger, Author of Land Rich, Cash Poor. For more info on Brian, visit https://www.brian-reisinger.com/about
To catch up first, here's the link to Part 1
This episode delves into deeper conversation regarding family trauma, so if this is not something you're prepared to participate in, we understand.
We delve into deeper conversations into realizing you have to deal with trauma. We also walk through how to move on from it, realizing you are significant and special and how Brian shares his fear of failure of no making his father proud, led to his father's opportunity to join him (and even take over) at the book signing table. Brian is also vulnerable as he shares his concerns and care over wanting to make things brighter for his child's future.
Todays question: “Think of something you used to love to do, but now you may have outgrown or lost interest in?".
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
Welcome back to The Rural Well! In this episode, we get the opportunity to talk with Brian Reisinger, Author of Land Rich, Cash Poor among many different other endeavours that Brian pursues. For more info on Brian, visit https://www.brian-reisinger.com/about
Topics in this episode:
Todays quote: “Agriculture is our wisest pursuit because it will in the end contribute most to real wealth, good morals and happiness.” - Thomas Jefferson
This is why farmers are in Superbowl commercials and permeate so much of our country - this is our identity, cultivating our own food and working the land
Question? Harkening back to the days when the milk man would delivery, If you could get anything delivered to your home still, what would it be?
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
Welcome back to The Rural Well Podcast! We've reached episode 12. We have the incredible privilege of having Brittany Olson join the podcast today,
Brittany Olson is a fifth generation dairy farmer in north western Wisconsin with her husband Sam and son Titus. Brittany is also a business owner, photographer and blogger.
Show Notes or discussion points:
- Lived in abuse, a broken family relationship as a child
- Miscarriage was the start of the end of my parents marriage
- There is such a thing as "golden uterus syndrome" - tune in for explanation
- Abusive moms don’t deserve the right to still have contact and control their child - this caused unnecessary trauma
- Parents sometimes use their children to hurt the other spouse
- Entered counselling but had to wait a year!
- Had to build boundaries with mom
- later in life, still had to deal with stress and problems, fires, barn rebuilds, birth trauma
- Panic attacks, crushing anxiety are still there
- We need to reorganize our expectations
- Recognize that you are fearfully and wonderfully made and have value from your creator…”God made the moon and the stars and he also decided he needed one of us”
Quote “If agriculture goes wrong, nothing else will have a chance to go right”
Cheap food does have a cost. Moving away from our farming roots can have negative consequences in our culture.
Question: If you could take on anyones voice, who would that voice be?
Thank you for tuning in!
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
Welcome back to The Rural Well Podcast! We've reached episode 11. We have the incredible privilege of having Katelyn Duban join the podcast today, so buckle up, grab a hot drink, and join in the conversation.
Katelyn Duban is a first generation female farmer in Southern Alberta, Canada. As for podcasting, she continues to share and celebrate the stories of Women in Agriculture. She's also delving into a new venture of Podcast Coaching. Katelyn is the host of The Rural Women Podcast and is a well sought after public speaker!
Show Notes or discussion points:
Quote 1: “Bailing twine turns every farmer into McGyver”
Quote 2: “We have neglected the truth that a good farmer is a craftsman of the kindest order, a kind of artist”.
Final question to comment on: Is there something you used to do all the time and were passionate about, but you either just don’t have time anymore or just don’t have the same drive for it?
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
Welcome back to the Rural Well Podcast. We've reached episode 10! We're so grateful you've taken the time to listen in and join in the conversation. This episode, we talk about communication.We specifically delve into 3 different types of communication:
- Are you listening to respond, or are you listening to listen?
- Non verbal communication can comprise of 86-96%, with tone, physicality, hands and facial expression all playing a part
2.Use open ended questionsas opposed to close ended questions
3.Clarification and/or summarization
We also discuss how important Validation is - especially for men.
It’s not even about being right! Being right doesn’t help us, it’s just validation we’re looking for.
We also talk about the quote by George Bernard Shaw: “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”
We then end off with banter about not getting hung up on the back and forth of whether something was communicated or not. Just move forward in communication.
We look forward to having you join us on this journey at The Rural Well. Join the conversation!
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
In this episode, we have the wonderful opportunity to talk one-on-one with Sean Stanford, a grain farmer from Alberta who knows all too well the realities of stress on the farm. Sean walks us through his background, the many areas of responsibility he carries, and then ultimately how he came to terms with his anxiety, stress, and the courage it took for him to address it head-on - including the reality of the stigma that this can bring.
We look forward to having you join us on this journey at The Rural Well. Join the conversation!
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter - https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
Happy New Year! Our latest episode 8, the first of 2025 delves into the meaning of resilience, where some people - especially farmers - turn to in order to cope with stress, struggles and their farming industry and legacy. We talk practical solutions, offer encouragement and give real world ways to be truly resilient in a healthy way.
Lauren also shares the reality of "bouncing back" and how it's not as simple and cut and dry as you may think.
We also discuss the quote "No matter how much falls on us, we keep plowing ahead. That's the only way to keep the roads clear." —Greg Kincaid
We look forward to having you join us on this journey at The Rural Well. Join the conversation!
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter - https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
Welcome to another episode of the Rural Well Podcast! In this episode, we discuss:
- Lauren’s harrowing real Christmas tree story
- Bridgette’s decorating priorities
- Gift expectations
- Needful gifts
- Sacrificial thoughtfulness in gift giving - creative generosity
- Gift of time
- Budgeting
- Start early!
- Find time for yourself
- It’s ok to change traditions and recreate new ones
- We also respond to today’s quote "If you could be totally enlightened on any one subject, what subject would you choose?"
- How to hid gifts from present seekers
We also want to hear from you! What’s your tradition? Also, please send us a picture of your Christmas tree
We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
In this episode, we talk about Grief on the Back 40, with our special guest Iris Parr, Author, Teacher, Encourager and also serves as the Director of Communications for the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance.
Iris shares her story, we all talk about practical ways to deal with grief - particularly during holidays. We also talk about how to help others deal with grief in their own ways, to be intentional with support and then some lighthearted conversation at the end.
Question for our listeners? If you HAD to wear a hat, what kind of hat would it be?
Links and Resources:
Iris Parr's Blog - https://irisparr.ca/
Iris Parr's Books: https://irisparr.ca/my-books/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irisparr
Iris Parr's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/irisparr
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter - https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
In this episode, we reflect on Thanksgiving and focus on the topic of gratitude.
Here are some waypoints in our conversation:
Do you enjoy the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade?
Then we play Catch a Phrase Quote about Gratitude
What are you favourite memories?
National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter - https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: mailto:info@theruralwell.com
In this episode, we take some time to talk about remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.
We also talk about taking the time to listen, cherishing and honoring the stories of or parents, grandparents, the stories of history from family, friends and others.
We also discuss how much we can miss out by not hearing those stories.
We also play "Catch a Phrase" - With a quote - discussing bravery and how vulnerability can be brave.
May this episode serve as a reminder to always reflect and respect November 11th for what it stands for and to never forget our past as it also informs our future.
National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter - https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: mailto:info@theruralwell.com
On this episode, Lauren and Bridgette dive deep into the reality of a farmers mentality of getting things done themselves. Also, the impact of making these decisions on friends, family, spouses and business partners. We also talk about the different ranges of emotions and what fear is often the result of. Then we walk through some practical solutions to encourage the help where needed and finally some lighthearted responses to our catchphrase.
Links shared on the episode
National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter - https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: mailto:info@theruralwell.com
In this episode, we discuss the following topics:
Links shared on the episode
National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
Website: https://nfmha.ca/
Shout out to "Ag with Emma"
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCs1j7bHd_IpFaV4iUhDfGRw
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/agwithemma/
Twitter - https://www.instagram.com/agwithemma/
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter - https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: mailto:info@theruralwell.com
In this episode, we talk about stresses in farming, impacts on the farming community right down to the food chain sourcing and continual changes and complexities getting product to market. We also talk about industry and environmental changes for farmers, the stresses that come with those changes and then how us as farmers need to stop punishing ourselves for putting undue stress and unrealistic expectations on ourselves.
We also discuss training options for therapists that would like to visit farmers and clients on site and how to properly strategize and insure yourself to overcome barriers to visiting clients.
We also talk about communicating with farmers, recognizing behavioural changes that can lead to check-ins, talking about signs of depression and it’s “ok to not be ok”.
Lastly, we discuss one of the resilient aspects of being a farmer; looking for potential where others wouldn’t.
Book Recommendation: Kelly McGonigal "The Up Side of Stress"
YouTube TED Talk by Kelly McGonigal - https://youtu.be/RcGyVTAoXEU?si=SgtSCfPWdk2w437X
Here are some links to connect with us further:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter - https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: mailto:info@theruralwell.com