Common Folk

What happens when tradition meets trend — and the kitchen gets caught in the crossfire? In this episode of Common Folk, Ben and the crew dig into the growing number of men putting on the apron and firing up more than just the grill. Compared to past generations, today's guys are swapping socket wrenches for saucepans… but is that a bad thing? Or just the natural next course? Expect some laughs, a little overthinking from Ben, and a whole lot of reflection on how gender roles are getting a serious stir.Show Notes and LINKS ⬇️https://rockroosterfootwear.com/

Ever feel like you're renting your life one monthly fee at a time? In this eye-opening episode of Common Folk, we delve into the growing frustration with the subscription-based economy. From streaming services to software, and even your morning coffee, it seems like everything now comes with a recurring charge.Join us as we explore how companies are shifting from one-time purchases to monthly subscriptions, and what that means for the average consumer. We'll discuss the psychological and financial impacts of this trend, and whether it's time to hit the unsubscribe button.Tune in for a candid conversation filled with humor, insights, and a touch of nostalgia for the days when buying something meant it was yours to keep.Show Notes and LINKS ⬇️https://barnowl.tech/

In this episode of Common Folk, we take you on-location to a small-town microbrewery where passion meets perseverance. Join us as we sit down with a local brewer who's betting on his dream, diving headfirst into the craft beer scene—a niche some say has lost its novelty. From the clink of glasses to the hum of fermenters, experience the sights and sounds of a brewery that's more than just a business; it's a labor of love. Discover how this entrepreneur is challenging the odds, bringing fresh flavor and renewed spirit to his community.Show Notes and LINKS ⬇️https://www.facebook.com/hardpatch/

We sit down with Jeff and his wife Jolene, lifelong farmers from northeast Nebraska, to talk about the evolving landscape of agriculture—and how they've led the charge in regenerative farming. Jeff Steffen isn't just another voice in the crowd; he's spent decades working with universities and ag organizations, conducting boots-on-the-ground research right on his family farm. He's a man who believes in backing up bold ideas with hard-earned results. Tune in as we dig into what it really means to farm with the future in mind, how it's shaped their land and legacy, and why regenerative practices might just be the key to sustaining rural life in America.Show Notes and LINKS ⬇️https://www.croftonhaymarket.com/

We sit down with the founder of the world's largest museum dedicated to antique barn pulley systems—once the unsung heroes of American agriculture. Discover how these simple machines helped lift a nation and why preserving their legacy matters to the Common Folk who still carry that spirit of hard work today.Show Notes and LINKS ⬇️https://www.croftonhaymarket.com/

Join us as we hop on a memory-fueled time machine and revisit the restaurants that shaped our childhoods—greasy pizza parlors, neon-lit diners, buffet joints, and everything in between. Come hungry, leave full of stories.Show Notes and LINKS ⬇️https://barnowl.tech/

This week on Common Folk, we dive into the world of "alpha" and "beta" mindsets—labels that get thrown around a lot these days. Are they helpful tools for understanding human behavior, or just internet buzzwords that divide more than they explain? We explore where these ideas come from, what they really mean, and whether they serve the silent majority—the everyday people just trying to live with purpose and respect. Join us as we cut through the noise and ask: do these labels really help, or are we all just human at the end of the day?Show Notes and LINKS ⬇️https://barnowl.tech/

You ever met someone who confidently believes they're a genius, despite being completely wrong? Or wondered if you, or your buddy, might be overestimating your own abilities? The Common Folk crew explores the Dunning-Kruger effect, a psychological phenomenon where incompetent people think they're much smarter than they are.Show Notes and LINKS ⬇️https://www.sandhillslims.com/

Let's dig in with Cole Sonne of the popular YouTube channel, Sonne Farms. The crew chats with Cole about how he was raised and how today he works with his father on their 4th generation row crop farm and cattle operation. Cole is an entrepreneur who is using new and innovative ways to keep the operation up with the times, and to keep income rolling in no matter what they are working on. His YouTube channel has over 300K Subscribers and he has produced over 900 videos over the years so far.Show Notes and LINKS ⬇️ https://Sonnefarms.com

With the release of thousands of CIA classified documents, Agent Blue, your friendly conspiracy theorist, picked up on something that NOBODY is talking about. Time for an old JFK assassination plot twist, with NEW information.Show Notes and LINKS⬇️https://www.sandhillslims.com/

In this episode, Ben, Morgan, and Andy sit down with one of the founders of Sandhill Slims, a small company making big waves in the meat snack world. They dive into what makes their beef sticks different—from the way their cattle are raised in Nebraska's Sandhills to the unique process that results in a healthier, high-protein snack. If you're looking for a clean, delicious alternative to traditional meat sticks, this is one episode you won't want to miss!Show Notes and LINKS⬇️https://www.sandhillslims.com/

We all know there's BIG Money in Ag, but what about Ag in the virtual world? You better believe it! The crew welcomes in a simulation-based gamer thats focus is farming. Chandler is a young motivated man that's building a farmstead you won't believe. It's not in Iowa, Illinois, or Nebraska, it's on YouTube!Episode LINKS:https://www.youtube.com/@RentalManBuch Buch'd Up

Sparing with world leaders, provoking trade wars, using the White House as a Tesla car showroom!? Alright, lets put a Common Folk perspective on some of this. So buckle up and Enjoy!

The crew welcomes in Ashton Honnor, Marketing and Communications Manager of TeamMates Mentoring. Their mission is to positively impact the world by inspiring students to reach their full potential.

The crew catches up with Corey Jones to discuss his journey back to Good Health, the re-launch of his business, and ponder if Friendships are different now?Episode LINKS:https://rockroosterfootwear.com/

The crew welcomes back Charles Baron, of the Farmers Business Network, to help us understand how these new tariffs, and so called trade wars, will impact the ag industry. FBN just released its Transparency Report, which sheds a light on what farmers and consumers can expect moving forward into 2025.Episode LINKS:https://www.fbn.com/

The crew catches up with ole friend Andy Thies, who's a Veteran that now specializes in showing and selling recreational properties across Nebraska. Andy has a fascinating story of personal growth, from his college days on. Just another journey of courage, trial & error, road blocks and perseverance, featuring us Common Folk.

The gang welcomes back Kyle Lechtenberg and the conversation bounces from food to finance to fashion.

Nebraska Furniture Mart was founded in 1937 by Rose Blumkin, fast forward to today and you'll find 5th generation family members still working the sales floor. We sit down with 4th generation family member Andy Shefsky, who is currently NFM's Community and Public Relations Manager.

In a chance encounter, Ben met some strange dude in a creeper van in the parking lot of his favorite store. Ben thought enough of him to invite him to the studio for an interview that may start a new series here at Common Folk. Conspiracy Theories. Are you into them? Do you believe or do you think they are just made up non-sense? We will dig in and let you be the judge.

In a chance encounter, Ben met some strange dude in a creeper van in the parking lot of his favorite store. Ben thought enough of him to invite him to the studio for an interview that may start a new series here at Common Folk. Conspiracy Theories. Are you into them? Do you believe or do you think they are just made up non-sense? We will dig in and let you be the judge.

Forget about "Nebraska Nice" our political leaders and team captain's won't even shake your hand! What's going on in the land of the corn? Let's find out with the Common Folk.

The gang welcomes back Garrett Heikes to learn more about his journey on becoming a professional Outdoors videographer. Garrett has worked for a number of hunting and fishing shows that have aired over the Outdoor channel among other mediums. His own show, Chasin' The Dream TV has aired on NCN since 2017, and features an every growing YouTube Channel.Within the discussion the HOT button topic of predator control comes up, and Garrett has a couple Strong/Informed takes!

We welcome back international track Star Christina Elder to discuss her dietary strategies. We chat about what Does, and what has NOT worked for her, and how Common Folk can implement some of the same strategies

After a season of holiday family meals we sit down to chat a little about how the Common Folk of this great country do it. Who does most of the cooking? What kind of family traditions are being carried on? Is wild game on your table? We hope you all had a wonderful holiday and that our stories surrounding food resonate with you and your family.

It's the holiday gift giving/gift buying season! We chat a little about how this all looks today vs. yesterday in terms of how we shop, where we shop, and when we shop. Is it still the thought that counts? With today's conveniences are we just going through the motions? Has something been lost? Listen in.

The Common Folk get together to discuss some real life issues we are facing personally that we just know many of you will be able to relate to. During this busy holiday season, sometimes you just need to take a moment to get it out, reflect, forgive, and give thanks.

We sit down with Andrew Zahn, Forestry Property Operations Supervisor, of a little known property in Eastern Nebraska by the name of Horning State Farm and Demonstration Forest. This property is owned by the University of Nebraska and run by the Nebraska Forest Service. This farm has been owned by the University since the 50's but over the last few years they have been making some big strides in the way of beautifying and engaging with the public. We also discuss a Veterans Memorial Forest they planted this past year at the farm. Common Folk doing uncommon things!

Ben, Morgan, and their best bud Nick recently traveled to Lincoln, NE to participate in a BBQ contest at the Faith Lutheran Church for their first annual Rib Fest. Following that event and being given the gracious award of "Fan Favorite", Ben and Nick traveled back to Lincoln and sat down with one of the hosts of the One & A Half Pastors Podcast along with a couple community members/participants to quickly discuss the event and to dig in to topics such as Connections and thoughts on How to Build Community.

Randy has a lot going on down in north Florida, where he grows peanuts on the family farm. The Common Folk welcomes @randythefarmer to the pod and learns a great many things involving his twin brother, Randy's music career, and the curious relationship with a NEW tractor manufacture out of Florida. This farming equipment company goes by the name James Mooose, and Randy is the head spokesperson for their revolutionary tractors.

Why are people deciding to vote or not to vote? It is an extremely important election and we want to know how the Common Folk are deciding to hit the poles or not. Welcome our special local guest DanO to the podcast to chat about all things voting from a regular, every day dude Common Folk perspective.

Halloween is here and it's the season of ghosts, goblins, spirits and freaky stories. What is a Reike Master? We're gonna find out. We dig into our guests' connection with energies and the spirit world. We chat about some of the strangest interactions she has had over the years and how she sees this side of spirituality fitting in with traditional spirituality we are taught in Sunday School. Meet a local Common Folk we have come to know and love, welcome to the podcast Tracy!

Join the crew on their 1st Live in-studio video recording. We're having a beer and talking politics.

The crew welcomes in Charles Baron, of the Farmers Business Network. FBN is on a mission to empower family farms by enhancing networking opportunities, increase their purchasing power, create new markets, and by offering alternative ag products.

The crew welcomes back Kyle Lechtenberg to discuss the once taboo subject of mental health.

Everyone knows Adam Sandler from his time at SNL, his iconic movies, or his stand-up comedy. Now Sandler is bigger than Ever, after inking an exclusive multimillion dollar deal with Netflix. How has this 'off-beat' comedian, from the 90's, become one of Hollywoods biggest stars?! Let's dive in, and put that Common Folk perspective on it.

In Part 2 we dig further into the "why" behind the 50 Mile March, the "what" that participants should expect to experience, and the future plans for this noble organization. We sincerely hope you enjoy this as much as we did. Meet again, Jay Miralles!

This two part conversation starts with an introduction to the 50 Mile March, an event surrounding Military Veteran Support in Eastern Nebraska. We chat with one of the founders, Jay Miralles. It quickly becomes clear why this movement is growing so fast as we get to know Jay and what he is all about. By the end of this thing we guarantee you are going to want to sign up and will have a hunger to learn more about Jay and his projects in life. The son of immigrants and a man we are very proud to call a friend. Meet Jay Miralles and the 50 Mile March.

Note: This is a rebroadcast. School Resource Officers, how important are they? Why are they really there? What should we expect from them? This isn't a job for just anyone. We dig into this critical position and discuss the roles, responsibilities, and future of SRO's in our public schools. Welcome back Lieutenant Howard Banks to the show!

The crew has noticed a couple discrepancies in regards to the information shared by Google Home's Alexa, and other "Smart Home" devices. Also, Mark Zuckerberg had some interesting news to share over his social media platforms on Meta.

The crew hit the road and met with many wonderful people, and visited some pretty impressive places. So let's revisit the journey and hear the take-aways from Ben, Morgan and Andy.'s point of view. Buckle up and enjoy this ride back into "fly-over" country!

The crew wraps up their first "On The Road Tour" at T & S Farms. This husband and wife operated farming/dairy/catering business showcases how powerful the Family Unit can be. Tanner and Sherry Black have built a THRIVING small business, that's quickly becoming a staple to the local community in terms of providing food sovereignty, and healthier food choices to boot Supplying farm fresh eggs, Sunday brunch, and dairy products across the county and beyond.

Woke, Break Dancing, Anti-Christian Opening Ceremonies, Men participating in Women's events... Ok, let's just start the pod.

The road tour continues! And this time the crew stops by Lynch Nebraska to find out how they were able to save it's grocery store from closing. This fascinating story, of a small town rallying together, has more twists than a midwest tornado!

We've been talking about these guys and their copper mugs for quite-a-while. Now, we've finally made the trip to O'Neill Nebraska to see first hand what Handlebend is all about! So sit back and enjoy this conversation over Friends, Manufacturing, Family and Entrepreneurship.

A new report shows that politicians lie - can you believe it?! Let's have some fun and put the Common Folk perspective on this "groundbreaking" revelation. Ha!

History repeats itself and once again, during a heated election year, one of the most outspoken Presidential candidates gets shot. Just before the Republican National Convention, a gunman takes multiple shots at Donald Trump from a rooftop in Butler Pennsylvania.

Ben and Morgan have been through, and have seen it all! Andy has also lived through and seen many changes over the years of playing and covering high school and college sports. So buckle up, this convo touches all the bases, concerning the current state of Youth Sports.

Ben, Morgan and Andy breakdown why we still LOVE our Country. From illegal immigration to the Presidential election, there's plenty negativity surrounding the U.S.A. right now, so how does the Common Folk deal with it? Well, lets dive in!

Ben, Morgan and Andy welcome back Kyle Lechtenberg to discuss the fleet of volunteerism. As always Kyle brings a unique perspective, both as a family man and financial advisor.

One of our most downloaded episodes, episode 1 with Corey Jones and his business CJP got us wondering how he is doing today. Sooooo, we got him back in the studio and dug in. Have things changed for him? YES, dramatically! We discuss his recent battle with a rare condition that brought him to the brink of death and the new direction for his video production business that essentially came from his time spent for so long in the hospital with his own thoughts. We are glad to see he is on the mend and have a great time catch up with him all while learning a few lessons about small business and life.