In this episode, Jennifer interviews Blake Swindle, the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of AgHeritage Farm Credit Services. They discuss the current state of the farm economy, particularly focusing on row crop farmers and the challenges they face as they approach the 2026 lending season. Blake shares insights on the history of the Farm Credit system, the importance of financial planning, marketing strategies, and the mental health challenges within the agricultural community. The conversation also touches on lobbying efforts for farmers, navigating financial challenges, and the future outlook for equipment purchases.

Bethany Gremel, Director of Brand and Company Culture at Beck's Hybrids, shares her journey from a farm girl in Indiana to a pivotal role in one of the largest family-owned seed companies in the U.S.

Discover how Beck's commitment to honoring God, serving others, and helping farmers succeed has shaped their 89-year legacy and continues to drive innovation and growth in agriculture.

Learn more about Beck's: www.beckshybrids.com

In this episode, I'm catching up with two of my soil sisters from our peer group. Stacie Jack Koger and Kassi Tom Rowland join me to talk shop — how we met, built our own all-female ag peer group, what we learn from each other, and the mental health support our group has given to each member. Come walk the turn rows with us as we share our stories and encourage you to find like-minded peers to support your farm family.

Here are ways you can connect with them:

Silent Shade Planting Company: sspc.ag

Tom Farms: tomfarms.com

In this episode, Jennifer James discusses her recent keynote speech at the University of Arkansas Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center Field Day in Arkansas, focusing on the theme of resilience in rice farming. She shares personal anecdotes about her journey back to agriculture, the challenges faced by farmers today, and the importance of community support. Jennifer emphasizes the need for farmers to share their stories authentically, especially in light of the disconnect between urban and rural communities. She also reflects on her experience testifying before Congress about the realities of farming and the importance of mental health in the agricultural community.

In this episode, Jennifer interviews Tim Walker, CEO of Horizon Ag, discussing his journey from dairy farming to leading a rice company. They explore the challenges facing the rice industry, including competition from imports and the importance of quality. Tim shares insights on the future of Horizon Ag, the significance of leadership in agriculture, and the need for innovation in rice breeding.

In this episode, we delve into the intricate relationship between weather patterns, water management, and rice production in California. Discover how shifting weather patterns and water scarcity are reshaping the landscape for rice farmers. Join us as we explore innovative solutions and hear from one California rice farmer on the front lines of sustainable agriculture. Tune in to understand the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for California's rice industry.

In this episode of Field Good Life, host Jennifer James interviews Dr. Hunter Biram from the University of Arkansas, discussing his background in agricultural economics and risk management. They explore the impact of weather on crop yields, market trends, and the importance of communication in agriculture. Dr. Biram shares insights on crop insurance, the current state of agricultural policy, and the resilience of farmers in facing challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of collaboration and resources available for farmers in the Southeast.

Keep the conversation going:

Sign up to stay in touch!

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Grain Markets and Other Stuff (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/4NJ9AZcSQBrLXFLCcPrGGG?si=CHN7HBWpSre-QXGrFbJwxg&nd=1&dlsi=c13c8c42ce3e47d1

Grain Markets and Other Stuff (Apple):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grain-markets-and-other-stuff/id1494161095

Morning Coffee & Ag Markets (Apple):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/morning-coffee-and-ag-markets/id1759235796

Morning Coffee & Ag Markets (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/4emeLzbunPzfJKVNqEF2V6?si=F99lXy5OQTyDeD4aYqxIsw&nd=1&dlsi=b852708269f84a67

Southern Ag Today:

https://southernagtoday.org/

Persistence is second nature to farmers—but what happens when the very people who feed us are forgotten in conversations about the future? In this episode, I reflect on how agriculture is too often left out of workforce and economic planning, even in farm towns. Joined by Cat Frans, we explore the power of storytelling, the role of marketing in agriculture, and why supporting American-grown food matters now more than ever.

What does the future of rice farming look like? In this episode of Field Good Life, I sit down with Brian Ottis, Director of Marketing and Product Management with RiceTec, Inc, to talk all things hybrid rice, sustainability, and why milling quality matters more than ever. We dig into methane emissions, research-driven innovation, and the balancing act between yield and quality. From installing levee gates as a kid to an influential member of the rice industry today, Brian has great insight into what really goes into growing your favorite grain. If you are curious about all it takes to get your rice to the table this episode is for you!

In this episode, Jennifer chats with Whitney Shannon Haigwood of Delta Farm Press about her non-traditional path into agricultural journalism and the role storytelling plays in bridging the gap between farmers and the public. They explore the economic realities of agriculture, the need for relatable, timely communication, and how digital platforms are reshaping the way farm news is shared. Whitney also shares advice for young women pursuing careers in ag and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the stories she's most excited to tell next.