Beyond the Field

When Nancy Barcus initially got involved with Agriculture Future of America, or AFA, she didn’t know she would end up as its Chief Operating Officer. Now she helps drive AFA’s mission to foster young leaders and develop opportunities in food and agriculture. But recruiting young people has its own challenges.

Farming is not for the faint of heart, so what draws people to it? The best person to answer may be Jeff Staplemann. Despite a series of challenges, Staplemann managed to meet adversity with resilience. We talk to Staplemann about turning misfortunes into opportunities and adapting to the changing landscape of agriculture.

When his dad changed careers, it seemed the door to farming was closed for Jeremy Brown. But after exploring a variety of other fields, he realized he belonged on the farm. He didn't stop there, however. Jeremy also became an advocate for a wide variety of farming issues and forged important relationships, including a mentorship with regenerative agriculture pioneer Gabe Brown (no relation).

As a young farmer, Andrew Lauver faces many challenges unique to his age. Issues such as succession planning, technology and ageism are at the forefront. So how does he juggle it all — and still manage to lead his farm into the future?

Greg Peterson and his brothers didn't know what to expect when they created a parody of a pop song titled "I'm Farming and I Grow It." When the music video blew up on YouTube, they suddenly had to deal with fame and all its challenges. Interviewer Wayne Carlson asks Greg about being a celebrity, balancing two careers and becoming a role model for the agriculture industry.

Karolyn Zurn is a giant in the agriculture industry, but it wasn't always that way. From leaving the farm to earn another bachelor's degree to facing pressures as the first woman on agriculture boards, Zurn made her own way. Her journey has led to big changes in the farming world, but as you're about to find out, there were plenty of twists and turns along the way.