Field Good Life

What happens when you take your farm's story straight to Washington, D.C.? In this solo episode of Field Good Life, I share my experience meeting with members of Congress, USDA officials, trade representatives, and policymakers alongside six fellow women farmers from across the country. I'll talk about why personal stories can influence agriculture policy, what surprised us during our meetings on...

In this episode, Kenneth Hartman Jr., Chairman of the Board of the National Corn Growers Association, shares insights into the corn industry, its uses beyond feed, the future of ethanol and other innovative uses. Discover how corn supports rural economies, innovative research, and policy efforts to benefit farmers and consumers alike.

In this episode, Leslee Tell shares her journey from a classroom teacher to a farm to school program coordinator with the Department of Agriculture in Arkansas. She discusses the development and impact of the Arkansas Rice in Schools program, highlighting how local agriculture is integrated into education to benefit students, farmers, and communities. Connect with the Arkansas Department of Ag her...

In this episode of Field Good Life, Jennifer has a detailed conversation with Meryl Kennedy Farr, CEO of Kennedy Rice Mill. They discuss leadership in agriculture, the U. S. rice industry challenges and opportunities, operating a family business, and the future of farming. They reflect on the influence of their fathers and the confidence that came from simply being encouraged to work hard and purs...

In this episode, Carrie Vollmer Sanders, President of Field to Market, shares insights into the organization's 20-year journey, its role in promoting sustainable agriculture, and how farmers and industry stakeholders collaborate to advance regenerative practices. Tune in with us and listen to how the Fieldprint Platform and Resilient Futures leadership programs are shaping the future of sustainabl...

In this episode of Field Good Life, I sit down with longtime friend and Arkansas duck hunter Rusty Creasey, a man who didn’t set out to be an influencer, but ended up becoming a voice a whole lot of folks trust. We cover everything from growing up in the outdoors to building a career in duck hunting, and the real work that happens long before a single bird hits the water. Rusty shares what’s chang...

In this episode, I sit down with Peter Bachmann, CEO of USA Rice Federation to unpack what’s really driving the global rice market—and why it matters to U.S. farmers. We break down the role of the World Trade Organization, India’s subsidized rice model, and the potential for a U.S. Section 301 investigation into unfair trade practices. If you’ve been wondering why rice prices are below the cost of...

Jennifer sits down with Chairman John Boozman to break down the latest developments in Washington, D.C., and what they mean for farmers today. From the farm bill wins last summer in OBBB to funding, crop insurance, trade policy, and rural development, the high price of inputs, and how we must look to long-term solutions for all ag sectors. This episode covers the key issues shaping the farm econom...

Jennifer James shares her busy schedule as a farmer, speaker, and board member, highlighting recent events, industry insights, and the importance of community and innovation in agriculture.

In this episode of Field Good Life, Jennifer James interviews Dr. Keri Jacobs, Executive Director of the Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership. They discuss the importance of cooperatives in agriculture, the role of farmer-owned investment, and the need for education and engagement among cooperative directors. Dr. Jacobs emphasizes the significance of understanding the cooperative business...

In this episode of Field Good Life, Jennifer James interviews Sterling Clifton, a certified crop advisor with over 30 years of experience in agriculture. They discuss the evolution and importance of the Certified Crop Advisor program, and the challenges faced by farmers today. Sterling shares insights on the role of crop advisors, how to obtain certification, and the collaborative efforts in agric...

In this episode of Field Good Life, Jennifer hosts Ryan Bane and Mandy Young from Tailgate Time, a nonprofit organization focused on addressing mental health issues within the agricultural community. They discuss the intersection of agriculture and mental health, the challenges farmers face, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for mental health discussions. The conversation emp...

In this episode of the Field Good Life podcast, Jennifer reflects on the growth and success of the podcast throughout 2025, expressing gratitude to guests and listeners. She discusses the top five most listened to episodes, highlighting key themes such as mental health in agriculture, sustainability, and the importance of community support. Jennifer also shares insights from the recent Rice Outloo...

In this episode, Jennifer James speaks with Amy France, the chair of the National Sorghum Producers Board, about her journey into agriculture, the various types of sorghum, its uses, and the economic challenges faced by sorghum farmers. They discuss the importance of trade, the future of sorghum, and the role of women in agriculture. The conversation emphasizes the need for generational advocacy a...

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 significa...

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 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 sponsors...

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 financia...

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 abou...

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 sup...

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...

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 ch...

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 t...

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 m...