Field Good Life

In this episode of Feel Good Life, Jennifer James shares her insights and experiences from over 30 years in farming. She discusses the surprises and joys of her work, her reading habits, and the importance of family legacy in agriculture. Jennifer reflects on the lessons learned from the land, the cyclical nature of farming, and the resilience of the farming community. She emphasizes the significance of finding joy in everyday moments and maintaining hope for the future.

In this episode of Feel Good Life, host Jennifer James speaks with Michael Klein, Vice President of Communications and Strategic Development at USA Rice. They discuss Michael's journey in the rice industry, the structure and impact of USA Rice, and the importance of collaboration within the rice community. The conversation also covers the upcoming Rice Outlook Conference, mental health initiatives in agriculture, and the significance of storytelling in the industry. Michael shares insights on the conference's keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and the role of technology in modern agriculture, emphasizing the need to connect consumers with the origins of their food.

Outlook registration: www.usarice.com/outlook

Sign up to receive daily www.usarice.com/dailysignup

Podcast www.TheRiceStuffPodcast.com or wherever you get your pods.

In this episode of Field Good Life, host Jennifer James speaks with Branon Thiesse about the upcoming Heart of the Farmer event aimed at supporting local farmers facing significant challenges. They discuss the importance of community involvement, mental health resources, and the economic impact of farming on the local economy. The event will provide health screenings and opportunities for sponsorship, emphasizing the need for collective support in the agricultural community.

Register here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=T5VNF15Yw0CuHAGtpfJnI5PXTpRIE_1Cg810ur-R9-NUOTBDQzAwRjI1RjJZTExDQVhSOFVNUUNVTy4u&route=shorturl

Or visit them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581702333584#

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:

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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/