The Rural View

In this episode, Dani Heisler from the Wisconsin Department of Ag, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) shares insights into the producer-led watershed protection grant program, its impact on local farmers, and innovative conservation practices. Discover how farmer-led initiatives are transforming land management and water quality in Wisconsin.

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Join Amy and Jim as they chat with Jim Hebbe and he shares his extensive experience in sustainable farming, conservation practices, and community involvement in Green Lake County.

Discover practical insights on no-till farming, water quality protection, and the importance of farmer-community partnerships.

Amy introduces you to her new co-host, Jim.

In this episode, learn about Jim's farming background, broadcasting experience, and passion for agriculture.

With a rich background in farming and broadcasting, Jim brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.

Together, Amy and Jim will dive into the world of agriculture, sharing insights and connecting with listeners.

Jim hails from Waukesha County, where he has been deeply rooted in farming for many years. Having transitioned from dairy to beef farming, he now cultivates approximately 800 acres of corn, soybeans, and wheat, along with managing hay production. Jim’s journey into farming wasn’t traditional; he didn’t grow up on a farm but developed his passion through work experiences on local farms. This unique perspective allows him to connect with both farmers and non-farmers alike.

In this episode, Erin Herbold-Swalwell shares expert insights on farm succession planning, addressing emotional hurdles, legal considerations, and practical steps to ensure a smooth transition of family farms to the next generation.

Erin encourages families not to wait until it's too late and begin planning for the future of the farm right away.

In this episode, Austin Vandertie shares his journey as a young dairy farmer in Door County, Wisconsin, discussing farm management, sustainability practices, community involvement, and the importance of communication in agriculture.

Discover insights into modern farming, genetic advancements, and the role of young farmers in shaping the future of agriculture.

In this episode, Karen Endres from the Wisconsin Farm Center under DATCP joins hosts Amy Eckelberg and Bob Meyer, as they discuss the critical importance of mental health and community support for farmers.

She shares her background and how her experiences have shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by farmers, including isolation, financial pressures, and the need for connection. The discussion emphasizes the role of observation in recognizing mental health flags, the complexities of managing farms with family, and the significance of telehealth in providing accessible mental health resources no matter where you're located.

Karen highlights the collaborative efforts of various organizations, including Wisconsin Farm Bureau, to support farmers and the importance of fostering hope and resilience within the agricultural community.

This episode of The Rural View is dedicated to co-host, Bob Meyer, who unexpectedly passed away in January 2026. We miss him and his story sharing abilities immensely. This is the final episode we have with Bob.

In this conversation, Warren and Jennifer Brockman, third-generation cranberry growers join hosts Amy Eckelberg and Bob Meyer, and share insights into their farming operation, the challenges they face, and the evolution of cranberry varieties.

They discuss the importance of adapting to market demands, the role of family in their farming business, and their experiences with YouTube as a platform for sharing their story.

The conversation highlights the significance of storytelling in agriculture and the impact it can have on audiences. Warren and Jennifer talk about how engaging content resonates more with audiences, especially when family is involved and when you stay true to who you are.

Handling criticism is part of sharing personal stories online, but farmers need to tell their own stories to connect with consumers in a more meaningful way.

This episode of The Rural View is dedicated to co-host, Bob Meyer, who unexpectedly passed away in January 2026. We miss him and his story sharing abilities immensely.

This episode of The Rural View dives into the challenges and experiences of young farmers, emphasizing the importance of community, succession planning, and mental health, and how Farm Bureau is a worthy resource.

Kendall shares about her involvement in Farm Bureau through the Young Farmer and Agriculturalist program, and how she's been able to build her network and support system through the organization.

This discussion highlights the realities of farming today, including financial barriers and the difficulties in planning for the future longevity of the farm. Kendall talks about what kinds of things are often important for a young farmer to stay on the farm or return to the farm to take it over.

Kendall is grateful for her years of involvement in the YFA program through Farm Bureau and encourages other young farmers and agriculturalists to be present and be involved. Your involvement just may land some lifelong friendships (or a spouse!).

Amy and Bob are joined by Amy Vandermark who has experienced the stresses and processes of passing of the farm onto the next generation.

The conversation explores the relationship between farmers and consumers, particularly focusing on the emotional disconnect that arises when discussing livestock and what Amy has learned from selling beef direct to consumer on her family farm.

Amy talks about how understanding farming practices can enhance consumer awareness and that the relationship between farmers and consumers is complex.

Hear what kind of advice she has for other farmers!

In this conversation, Jason Mugnaini, Executive Director of Government Relations at the Wisconsin Farm Bureau, discusses the critical role of grassroots advocacy in agriculture. He emphasizes the importance of farmer engagement in the political process, the current challenges facing the agricultural sector, and the need for proactive involvement at the local level. Jason highlights the significance of understanding legislative processes and the impact of political decisions on farming communities. He encourages farmers to be active participants in advocacy efforts to ensure their voices are heard and their interests are represented.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau operates on a member-driven policy resolution process, which means we are truly a grassroots organization. Farmers represent only 2% of the population, making their advocacy even more critical.