Farming on Purpose

Resiliency: The Secret to Success in Farming and Ranching

As I sit here on my farm on August 7, 2024, I can't help but think about the challenges we're facing in agriculture. We've been hearing a lot of tough news lately, and it's got me thinking about how we can stay strong and keep our farms going, even when things look bleak. 
First off, let's talk about what's happening. Big companies are laying off workers, cattle markets are down, and grain prices aren't looking great. Here are some of the numbers we're seeing: 
Kinze is laying off 193 people from their plant in Williamsburg, Iowa. 
John Deere in Moline is cutting 134 jobs in their seeding and cylinder sectors. This is on top of 489 job cuts they made to salaried employees earlier this year. 
Agco saw a 6% reduction and reported net sales of $3.2 billion in quarter two this year, which is a 15% drop from the same time last year. 
It's enough to make anyone worry. But here's the thing – we've been through tough times before, and we'll get through this too. We never know when the markets will change, but we can rely on a resilient mindset no matter what the economists are predicting. 
So, how do we stay resilient? Here are some ideas I've been mulling over: 
Mix Things Up 
One way to weather the storm is to have different sources of income. Maybe you could add a hay business to your cattle operation, or sell some of your meat directly to customers. Look at what resources you have and what opportunities are out there. 
I know it's not easy to start something new when money's tight, but there might be ways to do it without spending too much. For example, agritourism has been a great option for many farms. Just be aware that when times are tough for everyone, people might not have as much to spend on fun farm activities. 
     2. Use What You've Got 
The easiest dollar to manage is the one you've already made. Now's the time to really look at how we're using our resources. Maybe you could sell equipment you don't use much, or team up with neighboring farms to share expensive machinery. 
Get out those spreadsheets and really dig into your numbers. Know exactly what you're spending and earning. You might be surprised at what you find when you put it all down on paper. 
     3. Change How You Sell 
If you usually sell your calves at a certain time or weight, maybe it's worth looking at other options. Could you keep them a bit longer and sell at a different weight that might fetch a better price? Or could you team up with local processors to add value to your products? 
Direct sales to consumers can be tricky during tough times, but remember – it's not just about price. It's about the relationship you build with your customers and the unique value you offer. Help them understand why buying from you is special. 
     4. Talk to the Money People 
Now's a good time to sit down with your financial advisor or tax pro. There might be tax breaks or incentives you haven't used before. Make sure they know you're looking for ways to position yourself better for the next tax season. 
     5. Manage Your Risk 
Look into tools like crop insurance or futures contracts if you haven't before. Even if they weren't a good fit in the past, it's worth checking again. The goal here isn't to make big gains, but to avoid big losses so we can keep producing until markets improve. 
     6. Remember Your Purpose 
This is so important, especially during tough times. Why do you farm? What gets you out of bed in the morning? Keep that purpose in mind. If we can make it through this rough patch, we'll be in a great position when things turn around. 
Lastly, remember it's okay to step back from all the negative news sometimes. Focus on what you can control and the things that really matter – your family, your friends, your community. These are the folks who'll have your back when times get tough. 
We can't control what happens in the markets, but we can control how we respond. By staying focused on our goals and making smart decisions, we can weather this storm and come out stronger on the other side. 
If you're facing challenges on your farm or have found ways to stay resilient, I'd love to hear about it. Drop by our Facebook group and share your experiences. We're all in this together, and by supporting each other, we can keep our farms and families strong. 
You may also enjoy…
#17 Mental Health is Not a Dirty Word in Agriculture with Jason Medows
#32 Shifting Perspectives with Michaela Gasseling
 #56 Finding Fulfillment on the Farm through Understanding Your Identity
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 @wrightatthemoment, Facebook, and TikTok.
 

From Dairy Farm Dreams to Self-Made Farmer: Derek Penrod's Journey

“Buying the farm is probably the best not only personal but financial decision. Best decision for my family. It’s really opened up a quality of life that we wouldn't have had otherwise.” 
Growing up on his family's dairy farm in Utah, Derek Penrod always knew he wanted to be a farmer. But with no clear path to take over the family operation, he had to forge his own way. Now, Derek runs a first-generation farm in Idaho, growing alfalfa and raising Scottish Highlander cattle. 
In this week’s episode of the Farming on Purpose podcast, Derek shared his inspiring journey of becoming a self-made farmer while balancing family life and a full-time job. 
 
Taking the Leap into Farming 
In 2020, after years of dreaming and planning, Derek and his wife took a big risk. They sold their comfortable house in town and moved into a trailer on their newly purchased farmland - with no utilities. 
"We basically camped for six months," Derek recalls. "It was pretty basic. Twice a week, I'd fill a 50-gallon barrel with water from the neighbors to pump into our trailer." 
While the living situation was tough, Derek says it brought him and his wife closer together. It also showed her firsthand the blood, sweat and tears that go into farming. 
"Her seeing that and understanding it has really opened her eyes to the importance of it," Derek explains. "I think she sees the value it's going to have in raising our kids." 
 
Balancing Farm and Family 
Now with a 4-month-old son, Derek is excited to share his love of farming with the next generation. His son has already spent plenty of time riding in the tractor cab. 
But running a farm while working full-time and raising a family isn't easy. Derek's typical day starts early with farm work, transitions to his day job, then back to the farm in the evening. 
"It's literal sunup to sundown and you're going all the time, especially in the summertime," he says. 
Derek credits his wife's support as crucial to making it all work. While he handles most of the farm labor, she pitches in when needed and takes care of their son. 
"There's not a lot of women who would sell their comfortable house in town and move into a trailer without utilities," Derek says. "She's just been a gamer the entire time and supported me 100 percent." 
 
Advice for Aspiring Farmers 
For others dreaming of starting their own farm, Derek's biggest advice is to really examine how badly you want it. 
"There's a lot of people who say they want something, but they're not willing to get uncomfortable to do it," he explains. "If you're not willing to get uncomfortable, don't even try, because you're not going to make it." 
He also recommends: 
Using resources like FSA loans 
Starting small and growing slowly 
Having other income sources besides the farm 
While the journey hasn't been easy, Derek has no regrets. "Buying the farm is probably the best decision for my family," he says. "It's really opened up a quality of life that we wouldn't have had otherwise." 
You can follow Derek's farming journey on Instagram @self_made_farmer. 
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.  
You may also enjoy…
#44 Our Farm Transition Story Part 1
#52 Growing a First Generation Operation with Millennial Rancher Calli Williams
#69 Why 64% of Farm Transitions are Failing 
 
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.  

From the Archive: Episode 4: The Power of Courage in Farm Management Discussions with Elaine Froese

 
“Legacy to me is the culture that you leave for your family so that the next generation has great stories to tell and is grateful for the opportunities they’ve been given. That’s what legacy means to me.”  
 
As a farmer or rancher, you know that your work is more than just a job - it's a way of life that's deeply connected to family, legacy, and the land. But sometimes, the very things that make farming special can also create challenges, especially when it comes to family communication and farm transitions. 
That's where Elaine Froese, known as Canada's Farm Whisperer, comes in. With over 30 years of experience coaching farm families, Elaine has a wealth of wisdom to share about building strong relationships and successful farm transitions. 
Here are some key takeaways from Elaine's conversation on the Farming on Purpose Podcast: 
Conflict isn't bad - it's an opportunity Elaine believes that conflict itself isn't the problem - it's unresolved conflict that causes issues. She encourages farm families to see conflict as a chance to gain clarity and improve communication. By addressing issues head-on in a respectful way, you can strengthen your relationships and your farm business. 
Start succession planning early. The best time to start talking about farm transitions is when your kids are young. Make it part of your family culture to discuss the future of the farm openly. This helps set expectations and gives the next generation a chance to develop the skills they'll need. 
Fairness doesn't mean equal when it comes to passing on the farm, Elaine defines fairness as "helping everyone in the family be successful." This might mean treating farming and non-farming kids differently. The key is open communication about expectations. 
Put it in writing Elaine suggests writing a letter to express appreciation for the older generation and outline your vision for the farm's future. This can be a powerful way to start important conversations with respect and love. 
Create certainty for the next generation Look for ways to give the younger generation a stake in the farm before the older generation is ready to fully retire. This might mean putting their name on some land titles or transitioning ownership of equipment. 
Focus on people, not just assets. While the financial and legal aspects of farm transitions are important, Elaine emphasizes that it's really about the people. How well do you communicate? How do you handle conflict? Building a positive family culture is crucial. 
Legacy is more than land For Elaine, true legacy is about the culture and values you pass on, not just physical assets. It's about leaving your family with great stories and gratitude for the opportunities they've been given. 
Practical Tips to Try: 
Have a family meeting to discuss your farm's vision and values 
Write a letter of appreciation to the older generation 
Create a "life binder" with tabs for business plans, legal documents, and financial information 
Play the "what if" game to plan for different scenarios 
Consider working with a farm coach or mediator to improve communication 
Remember, building a strong farm family takes work, but it's worth the effort. By focusing on open communication, mutual respect, and shared values, you can create a lasting legacy that goes far beyond the land you work. 
 
 You May Also Enjoy
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#29 Bridging the Gap in Ag Culture with Megan Larson
#37 Looking Beyond Your Starting Point with Karoline Rose Bohannan
 
About your host: 
I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the stories of agriculture from generations past, preserving the skills and lessons learned along the way, and ensuring the best of that is passed onto those who will continue to lead the way into 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.  
 

Balancing Off-Farm Work and Agricultural Dreams

 “I think we have to figure out what makes sense for ourselves. And for the amount of effort that we're putting in are we going to reach our goals? Are we going to get there realistically on a timeframe that makes sense? And how does that impact other people in our lives? That can be a very challenging conversation to have with yourself, but I think it is one that is worth having.” 
 
As farmers and ranchers, we're no strangers to hard work. But these days, many of us are finding ourselves working even harder - both on and off the farm. Let's talk about this growing trend and what it means for our families and our futures in agriculture. 
The Numbers Don't Lie 
Here's a shocking statistic: in 2021, 82% of U.S. farm household income came from off-farm sources. That's a big jump from the 1960s when it was only about 50%. Even more eye-opening? In 2017, 58% of all farmers had a primary job that wasn't farming. 
As a farmer and a mom, these numbers hit close to home. They paint a picture of an industry where it's becoming harder and harder to make ends meet solely through farming. 
Why the Shift? 
Several factors are driving this trend: 
Improved technology means we need fewer hands on the farm. 
There are more job opportunities in rural areas, especially with remote work on the rise. 
Farm incomes can be unpredictable due to weather and market changes. 
The cost of farming keeps going up, but the prices we get for our products don't always keep pace. 
Size Matters 
Interestingly, farm size plays a big role in this trend. Farms making over $350,000 in annual gross income (only about 8% of all U.S. farms) are less likely to rely on off-farm income. These larger operations, averaging about 1,500 acres, produce about 80% of the total value of agricultural production in the country. 
Juggling Act: Farm, Family, and Off-Farm Work 
For those of us balancing farming with off-farm jobs, life can feel like a constant juggling act. Here are some of the challenges we face: 
Time management: There are only so many hours in a day, and farming doesn't stick to a 9-to-5 schedule. 
Physical and mental fatigue: Working two (or more) jobs is exhausting, especially during busy seasons. 
Financial stress: Often, the off-farm job is necessary to keep the farm afloat or to invest in its growth. 
Family strain: Long hours and divided attention can take a toll on our relationships. 
As a mom and a farmer, I feel this strain acutely. Just like there's often a "default parent" handling most childcare tasks, there's often a "default farmer" juggling most of the day-to-day farm operations. This imbalance can create tension in families and partnerships. 
Finding the Silver Lining 
While off-farm work can feel like a necessary evil, it's not all bad news. Here are some potential benefits: 
It can provide a steady income to invest back into the farm. 
Off-farm jobs can offer valuable skills and networking opportunities that benefit your farming operation. 
For some, it offers a way to pursue farming dreams without the immediate pressure of making the farm profitable. 
Looking to the Future 
As we navigate this new reality, it's crucial to keep our long-term goals in sight. Here are some strategies that larger, more successful farms often use: 
Embrace technology: Even small investments in tech can make a big difference in efficiency. 
Explore new markets: Look into direct marketing or value-added products. 
Keep learning: Stay open to new ideas and techniques. 
Diversify: Consider adding new enterprises to your farm to spread risk. 
A Call to Action 
If you're in this boat of balancing off-farm work with your farming dreams, know that you're not alone. I encourage you to: 
Communicate openly with your family about the challenges and your goals. 
Be realistic about your timeline for growing your farm. 
Look for ways your off-farm work can benefit your farming operation. 
Take care of yourself - burnout helps no one. 
Remember, every farm's path is different. What matters most is that we keep pushing forward, supporting each other, and working towards a stronger future for our farms and our families. 
What's your experience with balancing off-farm work and farming? Join the conversation in our Farming On Purpose Facebook group or reach out on social media. Let's support each other in this journey! 
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.  
You may also enjoy…
#61 Strategies to Calm the Chaos and Balance "It All"
#72 Advice from a First-Generation Farmer on Surviving Trends
#73 Income Streams, Marketing Beef, and Taking the Leap with Rancher Jess 
#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. 
 
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.  
 

Choosing Your Path

 “I believe that farming and agriculture give us an incredible sense of purpose because we have a job to do and we show up to do it every day.”  
In farming, family life and business often mix together. We're not just running farms – we're raising families and shaping futures. Today, I'm sharing my journey of balancing motherhood and running a business in agriculture. 
 
The Motherhood Motivation 
"What I mean when I say I have four kids" – this phrase I often use means more than just how many children I have. It represents why I changed my career and life to better serve both my family and my love for agriculture. 
For many farm moms, starting or growing a business isn't just about making money. It's about creating a life that matches our values and lets us be there for our kids while following our farming dreams. 
 
A New Way of Working 
The usual 9-to-5 job doesn't always work well with farm life or raising a family. My switch to running my own business shows a growing trend among farm families: 
"To best use my skills in a way that was rewarding to me and my kids, it made much more sense for me to be self-employed." 
This change allows for: 
Flexibility to meet family needs 
The ability to get help from others when needed 
Chances to show our kids the value of hard work and passion 
 
Setting an Example for Our Kids 
One of the best things about being a mom and business owner in farming is the example we set for our children. As I like to say: 
"I want to show my kids every day that they can live by their own rules, if they work hard at it, and if they make the right choices." 
This way of thinking is so important in farming, where adapting to change and thinking creatively can make a big difference. 
 
Doing Work That Matters 
For many of us in farming, our work is more than just a job – it's what we're meant to do. I feel this way too: 
"Working with different clients on things I believe in makes me more passionate and lets me make a difference in things I care about." 
This sense of purpose drives many farm moms to try new things, come up with new ideas, and create businesses that not only support our families but also help our farming community. 
 
Focusing on Effort, Not Perfection 
One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that effort matters more than being perfect: 
"It's not about perfect. It's about effort. And when you bring that effort every single day, that's where change happens." 
This way of thinking is so important for anyone balancing being a mom and running a business, especially in the unpredictable world of farming. 
 
Key Ideas for Farm Moms in Business 
Your family can inspire you to try new things in business 
Define success in your own way 
Use your business to teach your kids important lessons 
Focus on daily efforts rather than trying to be perfect 
Let your farming purpose guide your choices 
Remember, whether you're taking care of animals, growing crops, or starting a new farm-related business, your role as a mom and business owner is shaping the future of farming. Your daily efforts, guided by what you care about and what you're passionate about, are the seeds of change in our industry. By embracing flexibility, leading by example, and focusing on purpose-driven efforts, we're not just raising families – we're growing the future of agriculture. 
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.  
You may also enjoy…
#21 Systems for Managing Life & Work on the Farm with Natalie Egger
#28 Behind the Scenes of Ranch Mom Life & Ag Homeschooling with Lindsey Huseman
#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.  

Barn Restored into Butcher Shop Supports Growing Business Dreams

“I think we just respect each other’s time and we know we both are trying our hardest and some days are better than others.”  
Join us in this inspiring episode of Farming on Purpose with Sumiko and Harrison Mills. Sumiko and Harrison share about their background and how they got started on their ranch. They openly talk about the renovations they undertook themselves and what a long journey that was. They also share details about the opening of their Butcher Barn and some of the things they’ve learned along the way. Listen in as we talk about all thing's renovation and butchering.  
About our guest: Sumiko and Harrison Mills - H Bar S Ranch, Colorado 
Harrison and Sumiko Mills' journey with H Bar S Ranch began with two kids, two pigs, and two dogs. That quickly grew into raising three boys and selling their ranch raised pigs direct to consumer. They quickly realized there was a desperate need for processors in their area and their business model needed to change in order to be successful. Harrison and Sumiko started processing their own animals, along with friends and families, and in 2018 they said, "Well, why can't we just do it ourselves?" With their own two hands, they restored their 80-year-old barn and turned it into a state licensed meat processing facility serving central and eastern Colorado.  
You can connect with Sumiko and Harrison on Instagram and their website.  
At a glance:  
Why they started their Butcher Barn.  
Farm renovations. 
Opening of the Butcher Barn and learning all kinds of things along the way.  
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.  

Lazy Genius Tips for the Farm

“Learning to recognize the season you’re in is the first half of this and learning to live in the season you’re in is the second half.” 
Join us in this midsummer episode of Farming on Purpose. In this solo episode I’m going to share some of The Lazy Genius principles that have helped me over the last few years. This lifestyle shift has helped me in more ways than one and I feel is pretty applicable to farm life, mom life, and being a business owner. Listen in as I go through some of the principles, share how I’ve implemented them into my life, and see if they might help you as well.  
Check out the The Lazy Genius podcast and The Lazy Genius books.  
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.  
At a glance:  
Convert to the Lazy Genius way of life on the farm, as a mom, and an entrepreneur.  
The Principles of the Lazy Genius and how they could be implemented in your life. 
Give yourself grace and allow for flexibility.  
You may also enjoy…
#21 Systems for Managing Life & Work on the Farm with Natalie Egger
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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.  

Opening Your Mind to Food Ingredient Marketing

“I think it’s about figuring out what you’re doing already and finding a home for what you’re already doing.” 
While some of the ideas presented in this episode may be different, it's important to recognize that in order for a business to be sustainable, it must also be profitable. This episode presents ideas to consider in food marketing that you may not have considered before. 
Join us in this informative episode of Farming on Purpose with Ali Cox. Ali shares about her family’s history in agriculture and her journey back to agriculture once she started her marketing business. Ali talks about the importance of farmers to market themselves and their products to get the best prices they can for their goods. Another tip Ali gave was to do research to find the right buyer or processor for you or to find ways to diversify your operation. Listen in as we dive deep into marketing in the agriculture industry.  
About our guest: Ali Cox - Noble West, California 
Ali Cox is an agriculture and food ingredient marketing visionary and founder of Noble West, an award-winning marketing consultancy that specializes in the entire agricultural ecosystem. From fresh produce and nuts to dairy and agTech, Noble West works in all aspects of agriculture. As a fifth-generation farmer, Ali returned home to California’s Central Valley in 2007 with the singular goal of making world-class marketing services available to the abundance of farmers and growers in the area. A fierce advocate for farmers, Ali’s blend of a deep personal connection to the land and business acumen has made her a highly sought after strategist by her clients. With an eye on the future of farming and the climate crisis, Ali regularly consults with her clients on upcycling, regenerative water use, and hydroponic & organic farming practices. 
You can connect with Ali on Instagram, LinkedIn, and her website.  
At a glance:  
Family history in agriculture and Ali’s transition to marketing in agriculture. 
Processors and the messy middle. 
Marketing, researching, and getting out there to get the best prices for your product.  
You may also enjoy…
#48 Farming on 320 square feet with Leafy Green Farms
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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.  
 

How Full Time Farming Works for Winding Creek Farms

“You have to believe in what you’re doing and everyone involved has to believe and agree.” 
Join us in this powerful episode of Farming on Purpose with Harry Frederick. Harry shares about the journey to start their sheep operation in Kentucky. Sheep were not common in their area when they got started so there were some snags they had to iron out, but now they get to help out other sheep farmers with their knowledge and working dogs. Border Collies are utilized on the farm to help corral and drive the sheep and they are trained on the farm as well. Harry talks about finding your market and being transparent to teach and connect with others. Listen in as we dive into some of the aspects of being a sheep farmer and training dogs to being transparent in your operation. 
About our guest: Harry Frederick - Winding Creek Farms, Kentucky 
Harry and Katie Frederick were living in New Mexico working in the cattle ranching and hospitality business. Harry, after serving in the United States Marine Corps, had spent the better part of the last decade working as a farmer and rancher. Both he and Katie loved the work, but were frustrated working for someone else, unable to follow their passions and build a farm of their own. What started as a few drinks between Katie’s parents and a couple ranch hands one fall night has turned into a family-owned sheep farm in Kentucky. 
You can connect with Harry on the farm’s Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and website.  
At a glance:  
Figuring out where to start the farm and then the expansion. 
Bringing sheep to the area and utilizing dogs in the operation. 
Finding your market and being transparent. 
You may also enjoy…
#2 Navigating First-Generation Dairy Farming
#52 Growing a First Generation Operation with Millennial Rancher Calli Williams
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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.  

Ag Entrepreneurship & Conviction in Fighting for the Family Farm with Amanda Radke

“It’s the season of life we’re in right now and we’re making it work.” 
Join us in this powerful episode of Farming on Purpose with Amanda. Amanda shares about her family’s operation and the cattle operation that her and her husband own and run. Amanda delves into the different avenues she has pursued not only for additional off-the-farm income, but to fulfill her own passions. Amanda offers great advice about finding your priorities and making sure what you’re doing aligns with those priorities. Amanda is passionate about fighting to help farmers and ranchers as well as the land needed for agriculture. Listen in as we dive into the importance of knowing and pursuing your priorities and passions, and fighting for your way of life.  
About our guest: Amanda Radke - Radke Land & Cattle, South Dakota 
Amanda Radke is a fifth generation rancher from Mitchell, South Dakota. Alongside her husband, Tyler, and their four children, they operate Radke Land & Cattle, a Limousin and Angus seedstock operation. A former National FFA Extemp Speaking Champion and National Beef Ambassador, Amanda has spent the last 17 years on the road fighting for the agricultural families, rural America, and national food security. Amanda is the host of “The Heart of Rural America” podcast and radio show, a syndicated columnist, a western retailer, and a children’s book author focused on promoting ag literacy in schools. Amanda currently serves as an appointee on the National Agriculture Campaign Advisory Council, where she provides industry insights to the U.S. House of Representatives Agriculture Committee.  
You can connect with Amanda on her Instagram, Facebook, and her website. Use the code FARMINGONPURPOSE10 to get 10% off on her website!  Be sure to check out Amanda’s new website, Bid on Beef.    
At a glance:  
Creating a complementary off-shoot business while still being part of the family operation. 
Diversifying with off the farm ventures. 
Understanding and focusing on your priorities. 
Fighting for the farm and the lifestyle  
You may also enjoy…
#8 Shifting Seasons in Motherhood and Ranching with Richelle Barrett
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#62 Your Life's Bingo Card and Flower Farming with Liz Fiedler of Sunny Mary Meadow Farms
#69 Why 64% of Farm Transitions are Failing 
 
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.