Kristiana Coutu,Tim Christensen-Iowa State University Extension and Outreach

County Roads

Education EN ↓ 5 episodes

Kristiana and Tim dive into what is going on at Iowa farms today, from how to get started to succession planning, and what it looks like, and everything in between. They both discuss questions they’ve been asked recently, trends they are noticing, and provide their own unique perspectives on how to approach these topics.

Author

Kristiana Coutu,Tim Christensen-Iowa State University Extension and Outreach

Episodes

The Role of Revocable Trusts & Wills in Farm Estate and Succession Planning 07.07.2026 22:11

In this episode, Kristiana and Tim discuss how revocable trusts can be used in farm estate and succession planning, and how they differ from wills. They cover why probate matters, how trusts can help simplify asset transfers, and why families should consider their goals, assets, and circumstances when choosing planning tool. Resources: Farm Estate and Succession Planning for the Farm Portal (ISU...

Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) Program: A Tool for Cattle and Swine Producers 16.06.2026 30:54

Tim and Kristiana discuss USDA’s Livestock Risk Protection, and how it can be used by beginning and established producers of all sizes. Resources: RMA quote page:  https://www.rma.usda.gov/tools-reports/livestock-reports-lrp-lgm RMA agent finder:  https://www.rma.usda.gov/tools-reports/agent-locator Ag Decision Maker File B1-50 Livestock Risk Insurance Plans for Cattle Producers: https://ww...

Farm Succession Planning: Working with an Attorney 02.06.2026 18:32

Good farm succession plans are rarely developed alone. In this episode, we discuss the role attorneys play in the succession planning process, how to select the right attorney for your situation, and what to expect when working together to create a plan that meets your goals. https://shop.iastate.edu/extension/farm-environment/farm-and-business-management/estate-planning/calt5.html https://www....

Soil Testing, Analysis, and Management Decisions 19.05.2026 32:00

The episode welcomes ISU field agronomist Aaron Saeugling to the podcast to share his expertise on soil sampling and report analysis, along with management considerations for both new and experienced producers in Iowa. Resources mentioned in today's episode: https://shop.iastate.edu/extension/farm-environment/crops-and-soils/soil-fertility-and-management/pm1688.html

Farm Succession Planning: What We’re Hearing from Families 05.05.2026 26:44

In our first episode, Kristiana and Tim take a broad look at farm succession planning and the dynamics shaping transitions on today’s family farms. Drawing from conversations with farmers in Iowa and across the country, they discuss common concerns and the issues weighing on farm families as they plan for the future of their farms. Resources for today's episode: https://beginningfarmer.iastate.e...