Conservation Stories

In this wide-ranging episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillary Timmons-Sims welcomes Evan Stone, founder of Clear Rock Farm and Ranch, for an insightful conversation on agriculture, real estate, land use, and the evolving landscape of rural America.

Evan shares his journey from working in ag sales and farming cotton and raising show sheep to discovering his passion for real estate—especially helping retiring farmers navigate complex transitions. His work is rooted in empathy, data, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities unique to West Texas.

The discussion expands to include Evan’s experience with short-term rental properties, diversification in ag businesses, and the creative solutions required to preserve land value and quality of life. They also dive into emerging agricultural technologies, like NASA Acres satellite data and moisture mapping, and how making data actionable could revolutionize farming decisions.

Evan and Tillary tackle tough truths about farming economics, land investment, water conservation, and the risk of farmers becoming commodities in a system driven by efficiency. Together, they advocate for bold, honest conversations—and smarter systems—that support both profitability and sustainability in agriculture.

Whether you’re a producer, investor, or community member curious about land, livelihoods, or the future of farming, this episode offers clarity, strategy, and inspiration.

More About Our Guest:

Evan Stone, Founder of Clear Rock Farm and Ranch

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

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Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 

• Kelli Inge General Manager, Wall Co-op Gin. Wall TX.
• Layton Schur - Frontier Market
• Farm Hope Program

In this insightful episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims chats with Liz Hershfield, sustainability veteran and founder of Greenish, about bridging the gap between global fashion brands and U.S. cotton farmers. Drawing from over 30 years in the fashion industry—including her work at Bonobos, Walmart, J.Crew, and Madewell—Liz shares how she transitioned from traditional supply chain roles into sustainability leadership, championing regenerative agriculture and water conservation through real, farm-level relationships.

The conversation explores the challenges and contradictions within current sustainability frameworks, including the growing fatigue around certification systems, the disconnection between producers and consumers, and the financial pressures on both brands and farmers. Liz advocates for pragmatic, regionally sensitive solutions and introduces bold ideas—like leveraging NASA satellite data—to streamline verification processes and reduce burdens on growers.

With humor and honesty, Liz and Tillery reflect on the realities of branding, regulation, consumer education, and what it really takes to make sustainability profitable and practical for all stakeholders. This episode offers a fresh, grounded perspective on collaboration, innovation, and the future of fiber.

More About Our Guest:

Liz Hershfield, Founder & CEO, Green-ish

Website

Podcast Episode with Alyssa Whitcraft of NASA

Email Liz

LinkedIn

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 
• Daren Abney, Executive Director, U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol
• Eric Stone - Clear Rock Realty
• Kelli Inge General Manager, Wall Co-op Gin. Wall TX.

 In this provocative and forward-looking episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims interviews Damian Mason—agricultural economist, author, speaker, and host of The Business of Agriculture podcast—for a big-picture discussion about the future of farming. With humor and candor, Damian challenges long-held agricultural assumptions, especially around the culture of overproduction and the outdated belief that demand will always rise to match supply.

The conversation dives deep into the economic and cultural forces shaping agriculture today, from global surplus and commodity pricing pressures to consumer shifts toward traceability, nutritional value, and sustainability. Damian addresses the uncomfortable realities many in agriculture avoid: falling profitability, declining global population growth, and the risk of repeating past crises like the 1980s farm collapse.

Together, they explore potential paths forward, including value-added production, diversification, local supply chains, and the importance of entrepreneurial thinking in ag. With insights on policy, global competition, and changing consumer behavior, this episode is a must-listen for producers, ag professionals, and anyone looking to adapt to a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.

More About Our Guest:

Damian Mason - Podcast - The Business of Agriculture

Website

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 
• Liz Hershfield, Founder & CEO of Green-ish
• Daren Abney, Executive Director, U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol
• Eric Stone - Clear Rock Realty

In this inspiring episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Taysha Williams, Managing Director of the Texas Tech Innovation Hub, to explore how the Hub is fueling innovation and entrepreneurship in West Texas. Taysha shares her unique journey from nonprofit work to leading a powerhouse of startup development, and how her passion for community building translates into helping founders turn ideas into successful companies.

The conversation dives into the Hub’s three-stage model—ideation, commercialization, and acceleration—where aspiring entrepreneurs receive mentorship, funding, and hands-on support to develop their innovations. From biotech startups to viral e-commerce products and social ventures, Taysha highlights the diversity and creativity flourishing at the Hub.

They also discuss the critical role of keeping talent local, bridging gaps between urban and rural communities, and encouraging students and farmers alike to embrace an entrepreneurial mindset. With real stories of success, like Braxley Bands and Hyper Innovations, this episode is a powerful reminder of how innovation can grow anywhere—especially when rooted in community, mentorship, and bold thinking.

Whether you’re a farmer with an idea, a student innovator, or someone passionate about growing your local economy, this episode will leave you inspired to take the next step. 

More About Our Guest:

Taysha Williams, Managing Director, Texas Tech Innovation Hub

Website and Facebook and Instagram

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 
• Shane Walker - Director of the Water and Environment Research Center ad Texas Produced Water Consortium
• Todd Baughman - Center Director - Texas A&M AgriLife
• Damian Mason - Host of Podcast: The Business of Agriculture

In this heartfelt episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims is joined by her husband, Doug Sims, for an open and deeply personal conversation about their journey through farm bankruptcy, family hardship, and rebuilding life after loss. Doug shares his history in agriculture, the deep ties to land and identity that made walking away so painful, and the emotional, financial, and spiritual challenges they faced as their farm operations came to an end.

Together, Doug and Tillery reflect on the realities many farmers face—crippling debt, the stigma surrounding bankruptcy, and the emotional toll on families. They discuss the importance of mental health, community support, faith, and resilience in navigating one of the most difficult periods of their lives.

This powerful conversation offers hope and practical insight for farmers and families currently facing financial crisis, emphasizing that while the road is hard, there is life—and even joy—on the other side. It’s a raw, honest look at hardship, healing, and finding new purpose after a life rooted in farming is forever changed.

More About Our Guest:

Doug Sims, Founder of Sims Land Service and Our Host, Tillery's Husband

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 
• Shane Walker - Director of the Water and Environment Research Center ad Texas Produced Water Consortium
• Todd Baughman - Center Director - Texas A&M AgriLife
• Damian Mason - Host of Podcast: The Business of Agriculture

 In this special episode of Conservation Stories, the script is flipped as host Tillery Timmons-Sims takes the guest seat, interviewed by friend and fellow storyteller Nicholas Bergfeld. Tillery opens up about her deep West Texas roots, her journey through personal and professional adversity, and how her lived experiences—from bankruptcy and homeschooling to hemp research and nonprofit leadership—shaped her passion for rural revitalization and conservation.

With honesty, humor, and heart, Tillery reflects on the cultural shifts in agriculture, the impact of technology, and the socio-economic pressures facing farming families. She shares how unexpected opportunities, such as hemp consulting and grant writing, propelled her into a leadership role with the Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA).

The conversation touches on everything from the legacy of the Ogallala Aquifer to building bridges between rural and urban communities. Tillery also discusses the power of empathy, the importance of community relationships, and the role of women—and allies—in leading change. Passionate, personal, and powerful, this episode is both a tribute to West Texas grit and a call to action for the next generation of conservation leaders.

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 
• Doug Sims, Owner of Sims Land Service and Tillery's Husband on Bankrupcy
• Kyle Bingham and Hunter Buffington, National Hemp Growers Association
• Taysha Williams, Managing Director, Texas Tech Innovation Hub

In this insightful conversation, Tillery Timmons-Sims interviews Tina Siemens, an award-winning author and owner of the West Texas Living Heritage Museum in Seminole. Tina shares her passion for preserving the rich cultural history of the region. She discusses her journey in historical research, the significance of documenting Mennonite and pioneer stories, and the museum’s role in educating future generations. With engaging anecdotes and deep reflections, Tina highlights the challenges and rewards of keeping history alive in an ever-changing world.

More About Our Guest:

Tina Siemens, an award winning author and owner of the West Texas living Heritage Museum in Seminole.

Email or West Texas Living Heritage Museum Email

Website for West Texas Living Heritage Museum

Seminole the Book Website

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 
• Guest Host, Nicholas Bergfeld, Interviews Tillery Timmons Sims
• Doug Sims, Owner of Sims Land Service and Tillery's Husband on Bankrupcy
• Kyle Bingham and Hunter Buffington, National Hemp Growers Association

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Garrett Couts, Partner at Brady & Hamilton, LLP. Garrett dives into the challenges and opportunities in modern agriculture, focusing on building resilient systems that can withstand economic and environmental pressures. He shares insights on technological advancements, sustainable farming practices, and policy changes that impact the industry. The conversation explores the importance of adaptation, collaboration, and long-term planning for farmers and agricultural professionals. Garrett’s expertise offers valuable perspectives on navigating the future of agriculture with innovation and sustainability at the forefront.

More About Our Guest:

Garrett Couts, Partner, Brady & Hamilton, LLP

www.bhlawgroup.com

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 
• Tina Siemens, Author and Owner of West Texas Living Heritage Museum 
• Guest Host, Nicholas Bergfeld, Interviews Tillery Timmons Sims
• Doug Sims, Owner of Sims Land Service and Tillery's Husband on Bankrupcy

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Calloway Huffaker, a seasoned attorney from Tahoka, Texas, to discuss the evolving landscape of land ownership, energy development, and agriculture. Huffaker, whose family has practiced law in the region for generations, shares his expertise on topics ranging from mineral rights and renewable energy leases to the complexities of water ownership and land use.

The conversation delves into the growing legal challenges faced by landowners, including wind and solar leases, CO2 storage rights, and the emerging value of produced water. Huffaker explains how these issues impact landowners financially and legally, emphasizing the importance of carefully negotiated contracts and informed decision-making.

Beyond energy and water rights, the episode also explores shifting trends in agriculture, including changing lease agreements, cooperative farming models, and the increasing number of urban transplants seeking rural land. Huffaker highlights how these developments are reshaping West Texas agriculture and the critical role of legal guidance in protecting landowners’ interests.

This episode offers invaluable insights for landowners, farmers, and anyone interested in the intersection of law, energy, and conservation in today’s rapidly changing landscape.

More About Our Guest:

Calloway Huffaker, attorney, partner in Huffaker & Harris, LLP

email: [email protected]

website: www.hhlawtx.com

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 
• Garrett Couts, Partner, Brady and Hamilton, LLP
• Tina Siemens, Author and Owner of West Texas Living Heritage Museum 
• Guest Host, Nicholas Bergfeld, Interviews Tillery Timmons Sims

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Ty and Chelsea Criswell, a farming couple from the Plainview area, to discuss their life in agriculture and their creative venture, Acre & Rust—a clothing brand that celebrates the farming way of life.

Ty, a lifelong cotton farmer, shares his journey back to the family farm and the challenges of dryland and irrigated farming in the High Plains. The discussion covers sustainability, water conservation, and the economic pressures shaping the future of agriculture. Chelsea, originally from North Texas, talks about her transition to farm life and her role in education, where she integrates agricultural literacy into her curriculum.

The Criswells also dive into the inspiration behind Acre & Rust, a brand designed to reflect the values and traditions of rural America. They share how the business started as a creative outlet and evolved into a way to connect people to the agricultural community. The conversation touches on the importance of cotton as a sustainable fiber, the misconceptions surrounding modern agriculture, and the need for farmers to be part of the conversations shaping the industry’s future.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of farming, creativity, and sustainability.

More About Our Guest:

Ty and Chelsea Criswell - Acre and Rust 

Instagram

Website

Facebook

TikTok

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include: 
• Calloway Huffaker, attorney, partner at Huffaker & Harris, LLP
• Garrett Couts, Partner, Brady and Hamilton, LLP
• Tina Siemens, Author and Owner of West Texas Living Heritage Museum