On this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) is joined by Amy Hartshorn of Hartshorn Organic Farm for a conversation about organic agriculture, food quality, and the connection between farming and human health. Amy shares insights into the rewards and challenges of organic farming, explaining the commitment, labor, and stewardship required to produce food without relying on conventional synthetic chemicals. She discusses how organic practices can benefit soil health, environmental sustainability, and the quality of the food reaching consumers' tables.

The discussion also explores the complex issue of food pricing and the economic realities facing both farmers and consumers. Amy explains why organic foods often carry higher price tags, the challenges small farms face in remaining profitable, and the factors that influence food costs throughout the supply chain. Doug and Amy examine the importance of supporting local farmers and strengthening regional food systems, highlighting how consumer purchasing decisions can have a direct impact on the success and sustainability of family farms.

Listeners will also hear a thoughtful discussion about the role of government in agriculture, including policies and programs that affect farmers' ability to compete and thrive in today's marketplace. The episode concludes with practical advice on healthy eating, food preparation, and making informed choices about the foods we consume. Together, the conversation provides valuable insight into the importance of sustainable agriculture, supporting local farms, and building a healthier food system for future generations.

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Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) examines some of the most significant challenges and opportunities facing today’s farming community. The conversation examines several of the pressing issues impacting small and family farms across the country. The conversation explores the growing threat posed by invasive species, including the spotted lantern fly and the screw worm, and the challenges these pests create for crops, livestock, and agricultural productivity. Doug discusses both traditional and innovative approaches to pest management, highlighting the role of natural pest control methods and the importance of maintaining ecological balance on the farm.

The episode also takes a closer look at government policies affecting agriculture, including concerns surrounding USDA program delays, reductions in research funding, and the broader impact policy decisions can have on farmers' ability to remain competitive and profitable. Doug explores how these changes influence agricultural innovation, farm management, and the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Listeners will also hear about sustainable farming practices, including organic production methods and the use of beneficial wildlife—such as bats—to help control insect populations naturally. The discussion highlights the economic challenges facing family farmers, from beef supply concerns and market pressures to the influence of policy decisions on production costs and profitability. In addition, Doug examines changing consumer perceptions of agriculture and dairy production, along with trends shaping the future of the dairy industry. Together, these topics provide an informative look at the opportunities, obstacles, and ongoing resilience of America's family farmers.

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Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) is joined by Rick and Josiah Bale of the Bale Kenyon Family Farm and Greenhouse in Lewis Center, Ohio, for a conversation about the evolution of a multi-generational family farming operation and the strategies that have helped it thrive. The Bales share the rich history of their family farm, discussing how they have adapted over the years by diversifying into greenhouse production, vegetables, agritourism, and educational programs that connect consumers with agriculture. They explain the unique challenges of farming in a rapidly developing area, including rising land values, increasing property taxes, and the pressures that urban growth can place on agricultural operations. The discussion also highlights the importance of community engagement, local food initiatives, and creating opportunities for people to better understand where their food comes from. Rick and Josiah offer insights into the business principles that have guided their success, including a disciplined approach to growth and a commitment to avoiding unnecessary debt. In addition, the episode touches on an important public safety issue, raising awareness about human trafficking and the role that farmers, truck drivers, and rural communities can play in recognizing and reporting suspicious activity. Together, the conversation provides a thoughtful look at the challenges and opportunities facing modern family farms and the importance of preserving agriculture for future generations.

For more on the American Family Farmer…
Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) examines some of the most significant challenges and opportunities facing today’s farming community. The conversation explores some of the most pressing issues affecting agriculture today, from the ongoing struggles of Florida’s citrus industry to broader concerns surrounding dairy farming and food policy in the United States. The discussion explores the devastating impact of invasive pests originating from China that have threatened citrus groves across Florida, leading to significant production challenges for growers. Doug highlights the research, innovation, and potential solutions being pursued to help the citrus industry recover and remain viable for future generations. The episode also takes a closer look at the current state of dairy farming in America, including conversations surrounding raw milk, consumer demand, and the role dairy producers play in the nation’s food system. In addition, Doug addresses broader food policy and agricultural challenges facing farmers and ranchers, exploring how regulations, market forces, and government decisions continue to shape the future of American agriculture. Together, these topics provide listeners with valuable insight into the opportunities and obstacles confronting today’s farming communities.

For more on the American Family Farmer…
Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com)  welcomes Laura Brittingham of Brittingham Farms in Delaware for a conversation about the evolving realities of modern farming and the importance of preserving family agricultural traditions. Laura shares her unique path from a career in medical device sales to helping lead her family's fourth-generation farm, offering insight into the rewards and challenges of returning to agriculture.

The discussion explores the growing pressures of urban expansion in Delaware and how rising development has affected farmland valuation and the future of family-owned farms. Laura also discusses the farm’s successful diversification efforts, including the addition of lavender production and agritourism experiences that help create new revenue streams while connecting the public with agriculture.

Throughout the episode, Laura reflects on the vital role family and community play in sustaining agricultural operations across generations. She shares the challenges faced by long-standing farm families as they balance tradition, economic realities, and changing consumer interests while working to preserve their land and agricultural heritage. This inspiring conversation highlights the resilience, adaptability, and community spirit that continue to define American farming.

For more on the American Family Farmer…
Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) examines some of the most significant challenges and opportunities facing today’s farming community. The conversation explores several important developments shaping the future of agriculture, from legislative updates to emerging threats facing farmers and livestock producers. The discussion begins with an overview of the latest Farm Bill developments and the legislative process, examining how policy decisions in Washington can influence food production, farm profitability, and the long-term sustainability of American agriculture.

Doug also highlights growing concerns surrounding agricultural threats, including the spread of bird flu strains such as H9N2 and the continued expansion of the Asian Longhorn tick, both of which pose challenges for animal health and farm operations. The episode explores innovative approaches to pest management, including efforts to control agricultural pests through techniques such as sterilizing flies and managing destructive mite populations.

In addition, the conversation emphasizes the importance of soil health and regenerative farming practices as key components of sustainable food production and environmental stewardship. Doug also examines the ongoing discussion around weight-loss solutions, comparing natural supplement-based approaches with pharmaceutical options and their broader health implications. Throughout the program, listeners gain valuable insight into how farm policies, biosecurity concerns, agricultural innovation, and health trends intersect to influence food security, farmer resilience, and the future of American farming.

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Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com)  welcomes Helen Raleigh of Story Hill Farm in Delaware to discuss her remarkable journey from pollinator conservation advocate to regenerative farmer and heritage cattle breeder.

Helen shares how her passion for protecting pollinators led her to embrace farming practices that prioritize biodiversity, soil health, and environmental stewardship. She explains the challenges posed by pollinator decline and the importance of creating healthy ecosystems that support bees, butterflies, and other essential species.

The conversation also explores the role of heritage breed cattle in preserving genetic diversity and building resilient livestock populations.

Helen discusses how rotational grazing and regenerative agriculture practices improve pasture health, strengthen ecosystems, and contribute to more sustainable food production. 

In addition, she shares insights into her unique salt-farming operation on Delaware’s coastal land and how it complements her broader commitment to responsible land management. 

Throughout the episode, Helen highlights the importance of thoughtful stewardship, biodiversity, and innovative farming practices that help ensure the long-term health and productivity of the land for future generations. 

For more on the American Family Farmer…
Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) examines some of the most significant challenges and opportunities facing today’s farming community. The conversation explores how the USDA food dollar is distributed and what that means for farmers working to earn a fair share of the consumer food dollar. 

Doug also discusses recent farmer sentiment and the economic outlook across rural America, highlighting the pressures many producers face amid changing markets and rising costs.

The episode takes a closer look at increasing farmland values and the growing scarcity of available agricultural land, factors that continue to impact both established farmers and the next generation looking to enter the industry. Doug also addresses the critical issue of farmer mental health, emphasizing the importance of support systems and resources for those navigating the unique stresses of agricultural life. 

Rounding out the discussion is a look at nutrient-dense foods and evolving dietary trends, exploring how consumer preferences are influencing farming practices and food production. 

Through expert insights, innovative ideas, and inspiring stories from across the countryside, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective on the future of American agriculture.

For more on the American Family Farmer…
Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) shares the biggest news affecting smaller family farmers. First up, Doug explores several of the pressing issues impacting today’s agricultural community. The conversation examines how current beef import policies are affecting American cattle producers and the challenges farmers face when competing in a global marketplace.

Doug also discusses the growing threat of invasive species, highlighting their impact on soil health, pasture quality, and livestock operations. In addition, the episode shines a light on the mental health challenges facing farmers and ranchers, emphasizing the importance of awareness, support networks, and available resources. Listeners will also learn about regulations surrounding drone use in agriculture and how this technology continues to shape modern farming practices.

Finally, the program shares stories of farm preservation, exploring the value of protecting agricultural land and the factors influencing farmland values across the country. Together, these topics provide an informative look at the opportunities and challenges facing America’s farming families today.

For more on the American Family Farmer…
Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Doug introduces us to Talkers Magazine Publisher, Michael Harrison. www.talkers.com Michael is the person who encouraged Doug to start The American Family Farmer radio program and podcast. He is a fan of Family Farms, farm animals and is also associated with the rock band Gunhill Road. www.gunhillroadmusic.com Michael was invited to write and record a spoken tribute to animal life, for their latest album called: "I Know Your Are Real." www.iknowyouarereal.com It's dedicated to those who love and respect animals and believe they are real. 

For more on the American Family Farmer…
Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com
Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks