SharkFarmer Podcast

Rob Sharkey interviews Courtney Baird, director of operations at her family's Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch in Blair, Nebraska, about how a seasonal pumpkin patch grew into a full-time agritourism business. Baird explains the work behind its 35-plus attractions, 200-person seasonal workforce, family-friendly guest experience, and the lessons she carries from corporate HR into farm operations.

key topics

• Skinny Bones began with a few acres of pumpkins and roadside sales before expanding into a corn maze and other attractions.
• Director of operations Courtney Baird draws on eight years in corporate human resources to handle staffing, training, and day-to-day farm operations.
• The farm employs more than 200 people during the season and reports a returning-staff rate above 60 percent.
• More than 35 attractions are included in the admission price, with animal feed as an optional extra.
• The public season lasts eight weeks, but preparation involves year-round planning, hiring, repairs, and rebuilding after each fall.
• The farm can welcome 1,000 to 3,000 guests in a day, depending on the weather.
• Photo-friendly design, family safety, cleanliness, customer service, and a no-alcohol policy shape the visitor experience.
• A new Black Barn coffee shop took more than a year to plan and build and offers coffee, pastries, breakfast foods, and apple cider donuts.
• Baird credits varied past jobs and early exposure to business tasks with preparing her for farm leadership.

takeaways

• "You pay one admission price and that gets you in through the gates."
• "We're essentially starting over every single year."
• "We're over sixty percent returning staff right now."
• "Our business is so weather dependent."
• "You set the tone, you set the experience for the guests."
• "Their support means more than anyone realizes because we're a family business."
• "Take every opportunity you can because you don't know where that experience is gonna bring you back."
• "We're not above cleaning the bathrooms or picking up trash around the farm."

Chapters

00:00Meet Courtney Baird and Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch 03:58From roadside pumpkin sales to agritourism 07:10Designing a farm visitors want to photograph 10:57Leaving corporate careers to join the family business 15:13One admission price and 35-plus attractions 19:01How the family builds the farm's signature attractions 22:05An eight-week season and a 200-person workforce 24:59Food favorites and the story behind the Skinny Bones name 27:55Tornado Alley, pig racers, and family-friendly design 32:46Training staff to create a memorable guest experience 35:04A reality-TV week and the value of family-business support 40:47The Black Barn coffee shop and future plans 44:03Baird's advice: take every opportunity 47:47What prepared Courtney to lead farm operations

In this episode, Ryan Cook from West Virginia shares his passion for growing giant pumpkins, shark tooth hunting, and his efforts to help veterans through farming. Discover the secrets behind record-breaking pumpkins, the parallels between shark tooth hunting and gardening, and Ryan's vision for a TV show about giant growing.

Key topics

• Ryan's background and West Virginia roots
• Details of the giant pumpkin growing process and record attempts
• The community and drama surrounding giant pumpkin growing
• Parallel between shark tooth hunting and gardening
• Ryan's efforts to help veterans through farming and outdoor activities

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Ryan and his West Virginia roots 01:05Ryan's background and local community 02:38The Thunderstruck Ag Razor's Edge concaves 04:01Ryan's personality and hobbies beyond farming 06:55The drama in the giant pumpkin community 09:51The Guinness World Record controversy 11:43Growing multiple giant vegetables and state records 14:01The future of giant pumpkin records and genetics 19:08Ryan's personal journey and veteran healing 22:38Shark tooth hunting and fossil discoveries 32:36The importance of outdoor hobbies for mental health 37:19The potential of a TV show about giant growing 45:00Closing remarks and where to find Ryan

Alex Russell on FFA, communication, and finding a place in agriculture

Rob Sharkey talks with Alex Russell, the U.S. soybean seed care product lead for Syngenta, about how rodeo, homeschooling, FFA, and leadership training shaped her career in agriculture. Alex shares how she went from planning for nursing school to building a career in crop protection, training, and public speaking—and why communication, curiosity, and grit matter as much as technical knowledge.Alex also shares her views on women in agriculture, the value of being "kind, not nice," and why the ag industry needs people to tell the story of farming honestly. Along the way, she and Rob discuss career growth, imposter syndrome, and how to keep your personality while staying professional.

• Growing up in Fayette County, Illinois, and how rodeo and homeschooling influenced her path
• How FFA helped Alex find her direction in agriculture and leadership
• Studying ag business economics and weed science at SIU
• How internships and graduate school shaped her career
• Why effective communication means meeting people where they are
• Alex's "kind, not nice" approach to honest, constructive feedback
• Women's experiences in agriculture and staying confident in the room
• Building a career without coming from a large farming operation or an ag-industry family
• Fear of failure, fear of judgment, and advocating for yourself
• How the definition of agriculture is expanding for the next generation
• Creating genuine connections as a speaker

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and meeting Alex Russell 03:41 – Sponsor mention and conversation about farm trials 06:26 – Rodeo roots and learning responsibility through horses 09:46 – Moving from homeschooling to public school 11:11 – FFA involvement and leadership 14:01 – SIU, the Saluki identity, and discovering weed science 15:25 – Internships, graduate school, and building an ag career 17:15 – Public speaking and Alex's experience at SIU Women's Weekend 19:01 – Training, development, and "stealing with pride" 20:51 – Communication as a selfless act 22:12 – What "kind, not nice" means 24:01 – Being a woman in agriculture 25:29 – Staying professional without losing your personality 27:45 – Building a career without being born into agriculture 30:34 – Fear of failure, fear of judgment, and The Twin Thieves 31:32 – Why people may not be thinking about you as much as you think 33:56 – Speaking and working with agriculture groups 34:53 – Does agriculture care about feeding people? 36:43 – Changing paths into agriculture 38:30 – How younger generations are broadening the definition of ag 39:55 – Curiosity, generational differences, and changing minds 41:21 – Imposter syndrome and advocating for yourself 43:09 – Leadership training and learning from discomfort 44:33 – Alex's passion for speaking and connecting with audiences 46:20 – Vulnerability and creating a genuine audience connection 48:35 – Where to find Alex online and closing remarks

In this episode, we explore the journey of Kelly Leffler from rural Illinois to becoming the US Small Business Administration administrator, discussing her insights on agriculture, deregulation, and supporting small businesses and farmers.

key topics

• Kelly Leffler's background and rural upbringing
• Impact of deregulation on small businesses and farmers
• The role of the SBA in supporting manufacturing and defense supply chains
• Policy perspectives on environmental regulation and green initiatives
• The importance of small businesses in American economic strength
• Leadership and decision-making in government and politics

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Kelly Leffler's background 02:00Growing up in rural Illinois and family roots 03:50Career journey and transition from corporate America to public service 09:01Discussion on diesel exhaust fluid regulations 11:57Deregulation efforts and support for small businesses 12:56Political landscape and policy challenges for farmers 20:06President Trump's support for agriculture and rural America 22:01The role of the SBA and small business support programs 26:14Estate tax and passing down farms 28:13Involvement in sports and leadership experiences 30:10Foreign ownership and regulatory standards 33:00Political divides and the importance of election participation 34:51Advice for young entrepreneurs and embracing failure 36:46The entrepreneurial spirit and opportunities in America 39:09Message to farmers and small business owners 40:01Closing remarks and appreciation for listeners

In this episode, Rob Sharkey interviews Barry and Michelle Acoke from Parma, Missouri, exploring their diverse ventures in agriculture, business, and community service. They share insights on farming, entrepreneurship, faith, and the importance of relationships in success.

key topics

• The Acoke family's farming background and diversification into cotton, rice, and other crops
• Barry's journey from cotton consultant to international distributor and business owner
• The role of faith and community service in their business philosophy
• Challenges and rewards of managing nursing homes and restaurants
• The importance of relationships and good leadership in rural businesses

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Barry and Michelle Acoke 01:56The Acoke family's farming roots and diversification 05:11Barry's career in cotton consulting and international work 10:12The impact of faith and community service 14:57Managing multiple business ventures: nursing homes and restaurants 20:00The importance of relationships and leadership in rural business 25:10Reflections on success, failure, and failing forward 29:50Advice for entrepreneurs and young farmers 35:06The Acoke family's future plans and legacy

Rob Sharkey talks with Neil Koch of Harlan, Indiana, the creator behind Dig Drive DIY, about how a hobby channel grew into a full-time job. Neil explains the mix of heavy equipment work, family life, and practical projects that shaped his videos, plus the backstory behind his backyard pond, his agronomy career, and the community that supports him.We discuss how Neil builds videos around real projects, why storytelling matters more than just filming work, and what it took to leave a stable job to pursue YouTube full time. The conversation also covers equipment, sponsorships, and the patience required to grow an audience the right way.

Key topics

• Neil shares how Dig Drive DIY started with casual uploads, then grew after a bulldozer-loading video unexpectedly took off.
• He explains the channel name and its three pillars: digging projects, driving equipment, and DIY work.
• Neil walks through the backyard pond project that helped his channel break out, including the concrete walkway, pier, and well that keeps it filled.
• He explains why the pond was designed to be low-maintenance, mowable, and visually interesting on camera.
• We discuss how Neil's background as a heavy-equipment operator shaped both his skills and his comfort with large projects.
• Neil shares the leap from agronomist to full-time YouTuber, including the gradual step down from five days a week to three before leaving altogether.
• He talks about the importance of a supportive spouse, family, and local community when making a risky career change.
• Neil describes how his video style blends education and entertainment, and why he tries to make each project feel like a story with a beginning, middle, and end.
• We discuss sponsorships, Patreon, and how income from YouTube typically grows only after an audience is already established.
• Neil offers advice to younger creators: be patient, accept criticism, build thick skin, and do not expect quick money.

Timestamps

00:00 — Rob introduces Neil Koch and Dig Drive DIY 00:35 — Harlan, Indiana, and life near the Ohio border 01:05 — Brandt sponsorship and a funny equipment-sizing conversation 04:53 — How Neil describes the Dig Drive DIY channel 05:21 — The bulldozer-loading video that helped the channel take off 06:21 — Why the channel is called Dig Drive DIY 07:40 — Firewood, driveway work, and the pond video that changed everything 08:39 — Why Neil built a backyard pond 09:09 — Concrete edging, a pier, and designing for easy maintenance 10:08 — How the pond is filled with a well instead of runoff 11:36 — Keeping the pond full and fresh with a switch system 13:24 — The emotional side of finishing a big project 14:51 — Using projects as an excuse to keep building 15:47 — An old pocket knife passed down from childhood 17:39 — Leaving his agronomy job to do YouTube full time 18:37 — The fear of quitting a stable job for creator work 20:29 — Neil's wife and family support 22:16 — Risk, uncertainty, and why YouTube can change fast 23:44 — Keeping the channel family-friendly and community-centered 25:08 — Studying elementary education and never becoming a teacher 26:38 — The teaching style that shows up in Neil's videos 28:03 — Explaining drainage tile and field work on camera 28:33 — Neil's work as an agronomist 29:33 — Learning agriculture through family and on-the-job experience 31:21 — Approaching new challenges without fear of failure 33:17 — The story behind the Dig Drive DIY name 34:14 — Reaching 350,000 subscribers and dealing with imposter syndrome 36:14 — Strong local support from family, friends, and neighbors 37:40 — Community cooperation and volunteerism in small-town life 39:04 — Natural equipment skill and the value of patience 40:46 — Favorite projects, including the Bruno garden tractor and a restored 1979 Ford Bronco 42:40 — Advice for people who want to start a YouTube channel 43:41 — Why AI content may not replace real stories 44:39 — Why creators should not expect to get rich quickly on YouTube 45:40 — How YouTube income works, including AdSense and sponsorships 47:37 — How brand deals come to Neil and why he uses an agent 49:02 — Why newer creators should be realistic about the timeline 49:58 — Closing thoughts and appreciation for positive online content

In this episode, we explore the impactful work of Karen Schiller at Compeer, her journey from journalism to agriculture, and the importance of community leadership and giving back in rural America.

key topics

• Karen Schiller's background and transition from journalism to agriculture
• The role of Compeer in supporting rural communities and agriculture
• The importance of leadership and volunteerism in rural areas
• Strategies for effective philanthropy and community investment
• The impact of small donations and community involvement

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Karen Schiller and her background 01:59Karen's journey from Chicago suburbs to rural Illinois 03:52Introduction to Thunderstruck Ag and their products 05:48Karen's experience with her name and community interactions 09:13Overview of Compeer and its mission in agriculture 11:03Rebranding and focus areas of Compeer Giving 12:53The importance of community involvement and leadership 17:04Selection process for board members and governance 20:07Karen's career shift from journalism to agriculture support 22:55The significance of small donations and community gratitude 27:12Developing rural leadership and volunteerism 31:54Recognition and awards in agriculture and community service 35:06The role of diversity and inclusion in agriculture leadership 40:05The importance of community events and local engagement 44:12The impact of touchpoints and personal interactions in agriculture 47:56Bridging urban and rural understanding in agriculture 52:09Closing thoughts and future outlooks

Jimmy O'Connor, founder of the Second Story Foundation, shares his inspiring journey of recovery from severe substance use disorder and how his farm-based program helps others rebuild their lives through work, community, and purpose.

key topics

• The mission of the Second Story Foundation
• The role of farm work in recovery and resilience
• Systemic barriers faced by those in early recovery
• The importance of community and support networks
• The impact of natural settings on mental health
• The process of building a sustainable recovery program
• The significance of self-sufficiency and independence in recovery
• The role of professional help and peer support in overcoming addiction

takeaways

• Farm-based programs can provide real work experience and build confidence for those in recovery.
• Long-term sobriety is a daily journey that requires community, purpose, and support.
• Systemic barriers like unstable housing and unemployment are major hurdles for recovery.
• Natural settings and farm work have inherent healing properties.
• Building a sustainable, generational recovery program requires careful planning and stewardship.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Jimmy O'Connor and the Second Story Foundation 01:57The origins of the farm-based recovery program 04:46How farm work supports resilience and confidence 08:07Understanding severe substance use disorder 11:02Barriers to long-term recovery: housing, employment, community 14:53The structure of the farm's workforce development program 17:46Building life skills and soft skills through farm work 21:11The importance of self-sufficiency and independence 24:06Jimmy's personal journey of sobriety and hope 28:02The healing power of natural settings and farm life 31:51Engaging with policymakers and community support 36:02Passing down values and building a legacy 40:12Signs of genuine desire to change in someone struggling with addiction 44:04The importance of professional help and community resources 47:54Encouragement for those seeking help and hope 52:00Jimmy's message of love, sacrifice, and service

Shark Farmer Podcast — Chandler Janes

In this episode of Shark Farmer, Rob talks with Chandler Janes of Urbana, Illinois about life, farming, faith, and the path that shaped her career in agriculture. Chandler shares how growing up in central Illinois, losing her dad unexpectedly at a young age, and finding her place on the family farm influenced both her personal life and professional journey.They kick things off with a lively conversation about Beck's Hybrids' big event and the energy of ag shows, including how farmers and ag professionals tend to bring a more positive attitude than the average trade show crowd. Chandler, who works on the digital marketing team at Beck's, talks about the trust farmers place in seed decisions and how the rewards program has helped build long-term confidence on her farm.From there, the conversation turns more personal. Chandler opens up about studying agriculture leadership education at the University of Illinois, then earning a master's degree in agriculture production after her father passed away unexpectedly when she was 20. She talks honestly about grief, faith, and how the loss pushed her to stay close to home, support the family farm, and build a life in Champaign-Urbana.The episode also explores:

• Chandler's role in agriculture marketing and social media
• Her experience working for an ag agency and Precision Planting
• A memorable trip to Germany through an agriculture policy program
• How she and her husband Connor learned to farm together
• The realities of raising a young child while balancing work and farm life
• Why authenticity matters more than polish in interviews and leadership

Chandler's perspective is grounded, thoughtful, and refreshingly honest. She talks about resilience not as a buzzword, but as something shaped by real life — tragedy, responsibility, family, and choosing to keep moving forward.

Key Takeaways

• Farm shows and ag events can create a uniquely positive, community-driven atmosphere.
• Loss and adversity can reshape career direction and personal purpose.
• Authenticity builds stronger connection than a polished persona.
• Expanding your network and job shadowing are powerful ways to enter agriculture careers.
• Family, faith, and adaptability are central to Chandler's life and work.

Memorable Themes

• Resilience after loss
• Faith in difficult seasons
• Family farming and shared responsibility
• Agriculture careers for young women
• Marketing, communication, and leadership in ag

Guest Bio

Chandler Janes is an agriculture marketing professional from Urbana, Illinois, with experience in social media, paid media, dealership marketing, and ag communications. She works for Beck's Hybrids and remains closely involved in her family farm while balancing work, motherhood, and community life.

Rob Sharkey interviews Sam Goldberg about his journey from acting to creating impactful media about agriculture, focusing on the series Perfect Sundays. They discuss the importance of authentic storytelling in farming, addressing mental health, family dynamics, and supporting rural communities.

key topics

• The transition from acting to farm media
• The making of Perfect Sundays and its themes
• The importance of authentic storytelling in agriculture
• Addressing mental health and family dynamics in farming
• The role of community and industry support in farm media
• The impact of storytelling on farm safety and mental health awareness
• Partnerships with agricultural companies like Sukup
• The significance of farm authenticity and avoiding stereotypes
• Engagement with farmers and rural communities
• Future projects and community events for farm storytelling

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Sam Goldberg and his journey 02:13The creation and purpose of Perfect Sundays 04:01Authenticity in portraying farm life 07:49Addressing mental health and family struggles in farming 10:13The decision to avoid depicting suicide directly 13:01Family dynamics and character development 15:50Partnerships with agricultural companies like Sukup 19:09Community screenings and outreach efforts 22:02Supporting farm stories through funding and industry 25:53Upcoming Farm Progress show and series release 29:05The importance of supporting farm media financially 32:53The difference between documentary and fictional storytelling 43:57How Silo and Perfect Sundays changed perspectives 47:05Personal transformation through rural America 49:00How to access and support Perfect Sundays