Michigan AF Podcast

Meet Angie Setzer, who is responsible for buying and selling grain (corn, soybeans and wheat) from farmers. Listen in as she talks about: How a person gets started in this job…even if unconventionally Putting your eggs (and other foods) in more than one basket Working by way of “trial by fire” and managing risk Learning your ethical compass in less-than-ideal situations Transitioning from a career...

Meet Jed Welder, retired Army Ranger who returned to Michigan to farm. Jed considers himself a small farmer, and works with 33 different land owners to raise 1,500 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat and oats. Listen in as he discusses: The best office he’s ever sat in Transitioning from the Army to farming Raising kids on a farm and fitness regimens on the farm Putting plants first before social event...

Meet Rita Herford, a diversified Michigan farmer who grows soybeans, edible dry beans, wheat, corn & sugarbeets. She talks about several things including: Finding time for family during farmwork hours Having a baby [quickly] during planting season and self-employed “maternity leave” Managing expectations for a 2-year-old who expects the fair to be like a movie Getting an email from The White H...

Meet Nicole Wren, a Michigander who started a dairy farm with her husband, Brad. Nicole talks about a variety of topics including: Reasons they started a farm (and what significant details were left out!) What life lessons their three kids are learning on the farm The roles that’ve changed between Nicole and Brad as their business has progressed What Nicole does when she’s not working on the farm...