Farming on Purpose

Using What You’ve Got to Build the Life You Want

” 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.  

From Backyard Birds to a Full Homestead: Raising Kids, Animals, and Purpose

” 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.  

A Family Legacy of Dairy and Determination

 ” 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.  
 

Building a Business That Works for Your Family and Your Farm

”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.  

Building a Stronger Farm Family

 ”  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.  

Building a Future on the Farm: How One Rancher Found Her Own Path Home

 ” 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.  

Life on the Farm: The 10 Things on My Mind Right Now

 ”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.  

Building a Business, Raising a Family, and Keeping Agriculture Strong

”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.  

How Smart Money Moves Can Keep Your Family Farm in Business for Generations

 ” 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.  

How to Redefine Success on the Farm and at Home with DL Lautenbach

 “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.