93

Send us Fan Mail

This episode features a conversation with Craig and Jody Haythorn of the historic Haythorn Land & Cattle Co., a now sixth-generation family operation rooted in Nebraska’s Sandhills since 1884. Craig and Jody share the story of how the ranch began, the traditions passed down through generations, and what it takes to steward a working ranch today. From their influential role in the American Quarter Horse world to balancing modern operations with deep family values, the Haythorns offer an authentic look at ranch life, resilience, and legacy—why stories like theirs continue to resonate with audiences drawn to the enduring spirit of the American West. 

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode we shine a spotlight on one of Nebraska’s most charming and fastest-growing historic communities: Ashland. Nestled between Lincoln and Omaha, Ashland has long been known for its beautiful downtown, but in recent years, it has emerged as a remarkable example of how small cities can honor their past while building a vibrant, forward-looking future.

As Nebraska works to strengthen its rural towns and historic main streets, Ashland stands out not only for what it has preserved, but for what it is becoming. New businesses, creative energy, thoughtful development, and community-driven leadership have transformed this city into a model for sustainable, people-centered growth.

Our guest is someone at the heart of that movement: Caleb Fjone, CEO of the Ashland Community Development Corporation. Caleb is leading initiatives that blend economic development with historic preservation, foster a thriving arts and creative culture, and cultivate a community where families, entrepreneurs, and visitors feel deeply connected.

So settle in as we dive into the story of Ashland: a small city with a big future, and an inspiring example of what’s possible when history, community, and development come together with purpose.

Send us Fan Mail

Travel through Nebraska’s telephone history with two family-owned providers who helped build it. From hand-crank phones and party lines to fiber-to-the-home, BW Telcom’s Randall Raille and Cozad Telephone Company’s Marcus and Dreu Young share how innovation, community, and a “neighbors first” mentality have helped them keep Nebraskans connected for generations. 

Send us Fan Mail

This special Thanksgiving episode brings together some prominent Nebraskans—and a few with deep Nebraska roots—to share what they’re most thankful for this Thanksgiving and what fuels their spirit of gratitude each and every day. 

From leaders in public service and athletics to agriculture to community and beyond, each guest offers a personal, heartfelt reflection on what grounds them, inspires them, and reminds them of the good around them.

In this compilation of short snippets, you’ll hear stories of family, faith, community, and purpose—told with the authenticity and warmth that define Nebraska. Whether you're looking for encouragement, perspective, or simply a moment of gratitude during this Thanksgiving season, this episode offers a thoughtful reminder that thankfulness isn’t just a once-a-year tradition, it’s a way of life.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we visit with Wes Blecke, currently the City Administrator of Wayne, Nebraska.  We discuss community development, the importance of collaboration, the current state of Wayne County and the City of Wayne, Wayne Chicken Days, and why his one word for Nebraska is "family."

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we sit down with brothers Tim and Nathan Geisert, proud natives of a homestead southeast of Ogallala, Nebraska. Though their paths took them in very different directions, both men are deeply rooted in the lessons learned growing up under the wide-open skies of western Nebraska. 

Nate, after thirty years of farming, recently hung up his hat to follow his lifelong passion—restoring antique tractors and sharing his engineering prowess and stories with thousands on his growing YouTube channel. Tim left the farm for college, but never forgetting where he came from, carving out a successful career in business and currently Partner and CRO at AuctusIQ. Together they reflect on a childhood spent in a one-room schoolhouse, the values of hard work and family, and how those lessons and Nebraska values continue to shape their lives today.  

So settle in—it’s time to hear the story of Tim and Nate Geisert, two brothers, two paths, and one Nebraska legacy. 

Send us Fan Mail

The Saddle & Sirloin Portrait Gallery—often described as the Hall of Fame of the livestock industry—stands as a tribute to individuals who have made lasting contributions to animal agriculture. Today, 379 portraits hang in the gallery, which originated at the historic Chicago Stockyards and now resides in Louisville, Kentucky.

On November 16, 2025, Bill Rishel will join this distinguished company as the 380th inductee into the Saddle & Sirloin Portrait Gallery. His selection recognizes decades of leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing the beef cattle industry. Learn more about this tremendous honor and Bill’s lasting impact here.

This episode offers highlights from our original conversation with Bill in the early days of this podcast, capturing key moments from his time at Penn State, his bold strategic decisions at Rishel Angus, the blessings of rearing three daughters, and his vision for the future of the beef industry.

To experience Bill’s full story, be sure to listen to Episode 10 in its entirety.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Dennis Brink, a man whose impact on agriculture and leadership in Nebraska is nothing short of extraordinary. Over the course of four decades, Dr. Brink influenced thousands of students through his work as a professor, mentor, and leader in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Department of Animal Science.

Dr. Brink’s passion for teaching and his unwavering commitment to servant leadership have inspired generations to pursue excellence in agriculture, science, and faith. His vision also played a key role in helping to establish the Agricultural Science Program at Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska, expanding opportunities for students to grow as leaders grounded in both knowledge and purpose.

Join us as Dr. Brink reflects on his remarkable journey—sharing insights on mentorship, faith-driven service, and the enduring power of education to change lives.

Send us Fan Mail

In Episode 52, we get a chance to visit with Dr. Tiffany Heng-Moss, Interim Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources for the University of Nebraska System and Interim Harlan Vice Chancellor for the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.  From her humble beginnings on a farm near Talmage, Nebraska, Tiffany has built an amazing resume focused on serving others and serving Nebraska.  Listen to find out why her one word for Nebraska is "possibilities."

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode we visit with Allison Walbrecht, a senior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln who represents the very best of what Nebraska has to offer.  She is the founder of Unified Showing, a non-profit dedicated to empowering youth with disabilities through hands-on livestock education that has garnered two Governor's Excellence in Agriculture Awards.  She shares her story of being an ag kid attending high school in Lincoln, what happens when someone leads with heart and why "legacy" is the one word that to her best describes Nebraska.