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48 episodes with off farm income
2 episodes with off farm income
2 episodes with off farm income
2 episodes with off farm income
2 episodes with off farm income
Today's episode is a bit different than any normal, Off-Farm Income episode. Today I am speaking with Kathleen Dowling. Kathleen and I have a lot in common. We both grew up in California, we both started our collegiate education at a community college, we both had a dream of moving to Montana, we both became Montana state residents and we both got ag degrees from Montana State University. Recently I saw a post on the Facebook Group, My Job Depends On Ag, that Kathleen had put up. She expressed a bit of frustration with finding a career in agriculture and was asking for recommendations from other people. I reached out to her and offered to provide some career coaching if we could release the conversation as a podcast. She agreed to that, and today's episode is that conversation.
Starting tomorrow and going through the 6th of January, I am running "best of" episodes. I can do 7 episodes per week, but I need a break! And I am taking one. I hope you enjoy the memories everyone!
On tomorrow's Ag Business Episode I am profiling a freelance, agricultural writer. This is one of my favorite forms of off-farm income. For today's re-cap episode I went back to episode #1233 and an interview I did with Rachel Gabel of the "The Fence Post Magazine". In this interview we talked a lot about how freelance writers can get started and be successful, but we did it from the editor's perspective. I thought this was the perfect tie in for tomorrow's show where we will hear this from a writer's perspective.
Lillie Cagle is a 2023 National Proficiency Winner in the category of Agricultural Education. She is also a Tennessee State Officer and a previous guest on this show. Lillie just appeared on Off-Farm Income in April of 2023 after becoming a state officer. She had a phenomenal SAE and was doing a ton of good for agriculture. In just the span of 6 months from being on the show she found herself on the big stage in Indianapolis receiving an National Proficiency Award for her efforts. I wanted to have her back on the show to tell her congratulations and to hear all about it!
Join us as Rod, the driving force behind 'A Better Way to Farm', talks with Tyler about his transition from a corporate job to entrepreneurship. Tyler shares how he helps clients to maximize profits on the farm and generate off-farm income. Find out how the team provides training and support to those eager to enter into ag entrepreneurship. We offer not just income but a network of connections and a sense of family. Don't miss out on these stories of personal development, teamwork, and the quest for opportunities in agriculture.
On tomorrow's Ag Business Episode Kyle Stockdale is coming back on the show with an update on his business as well as his development as an entrepreneur. I am very proud of what he is doing and excited to share tomorrow's interview with you. Kyle first appeared on Off-Farm Income in 2021, and so for today's re-cap episode I am replaying that original interview to give you the before and after picture. You are going to be impressed!
Today Arlene is getting all of her criminal questions answered by retired law enforcement officer, Idaho farmer, and ag podcaster Matt Brechwald. We're talking about the FFA, podcasting, quitting your job, how to steal a barn, securing your farm, and a LOT more. Matt's work can be found at his website and you can subscribe to his podcast Off-Farm Income here Thank you for joining us today on Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, we encourage you to support us by becoming a patron. Go to Patreon to make a small monthly donation to help cover the cost of making a show. Please rate and review the podcast and follow the show so you never miss an episode.If you want to leave us a Cussing and Discussing, you can do that on Speakpipe You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and on Twitter we are BarnyardPod. If you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch. We are a proud member of the Positively Farming Media Podcast Network.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy
Caite Palmer and Arlene Hunter are the hosts of "The Barnyard Language Podcast - "Real Talk About Running Farms and Raising Families". They are both farmers in different situations. Arlene and her husband are full-time dairy farmers in Canada with no off-farm jobs. Caite and her husband farm about 200 acres of row crops and raise livestock in Northeast Iowa and both of them work off of the farm. Caite and Arlene were brought together by a podcast, met on a Facebook group corresponding to that show and have only met in person one time. However, they have been hosting a weekly show together for almost two years! I was recently a guest on the Barnyard Language Podcast. I enjoyed the conversation so much and was so impressed with how these ladies went about their business, I invited them to be guests on Off-Farm Income as well. They tackle some tough issues on their show - everything from parenting to domestic violence in rural communities. They have a mission and a big vision of how they can inspire more farming podcasts that will help farmers. I love it, and am thrilled to have interviewed them and to feature them on the show today!
It all starts with the foundational thinking of trying something new for the farm and envisioning the best years ahead of it. Can we really turn our operations into a profitable business as well? That is what we are going to delve deeper into our today's episode as we welcome back Sam Shanks of the A Better Way to Farm team. How did his farm operations' success translate to his beliefs that helping other farmers achieve the same fate is worth pursuing? Sam is going to share with us a very passionate story that may be what you are just looking for to change perspectives on how we should run our farm operations and achieve freedom at the same time so if you're ready to learn more, then come and let's go right in!
Off Farm Income Becoming More Important for Ag and Rural Economy
Off-farm Income: How to Fix the Farm Income Balance.
Thanks to friend of the show, Warren Clark, we have an interesting study about off-farm income to present you with today. Also, I've got a farm update for you, and let's talk about the best example of prioritizing starting a farm I've ever covered on this show! More Places You Can Listen to Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald:
A recent CoBank report completed by the University of Missouri shows 82 percent of farm household income now comes from off-farm sources. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says there are several ways the Department of Agriculture is working to build new markets to change the farm income balance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A new study shows increasing dependence on off-farm employment and income reveals the growing economic interconnection of rural communities and surrounding cities. According to a study by researchers at the University of Missouri, 82 percent of U.S. farm household income now comes from off-farm sources.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Inside Agriculture Segment 1
On tomorrow's ag business episode I am profiling an entrepreneur who is staying fit on her farm. I thought bringing back this episode with Dolly Denson, "The Fit Stock Show Mom", was the perfect segue into this business interview. Today, Dolly has grown her business even more and is the host of the "Be The Mom Movement Podcast". The original show notes are below. SHOW NOTES KEY IDEAS: Those of us that work in agriculture, and especially those of us that are working towards a future in agriculture are very busy. We are either totally devoted to the farm or business that we now have started, or we have pinpoint focus on how we are going to achieve that dream and are doing everything we can to reach it. Focus and passion are wonderful things, but they can pull you away from a balanced life. In the end, it does not matter if you have accomplished a major dream, if the rest of your life is left neglected and in shambles. The first thing to usually get neglected when we find this focus is ourselves. And the first part of ourselves to get neglected is usually our physical health. There has to be somebody, somewhere who understands us and how difficult it can be to find time to pursue better physical health. Well, let me introduce you Dolly Densen - The Fit Stock Show Mom. Here is someone who comes from our shared experiences and has figured out a system to help all of us find the time and ability to eat well and exercise, even when we are busy and on the go. Dolly is a health and fitness coach who lives in our agricultural world. Specifically, she has children who show animals all over the State of Texas, and she knows what kind of challenges that brings for parents. She has figured out how to tailor a health and fitness plan to the needs of us in agriculture through careful selection of workouts and nutritional programs. Dolly is now a sponsor of the Off-Farm Income Podcast. So, you will hear me singing her praises every week. Autumm and I are participating in her program, but for very different reasons. Autumm is in great shape, and wants to be in even better shape. I am am the typical person who has been so focused on my other projects that I am out of shape.......and I need help! Thanks goodness for Dolly! I hope you enjoy Dolly's passion and enthusiasm in this episode. There is a lot of good information here not just about fitness, but also about how she identified her niche in agriculture and has been able to turn it into a business that she can do from anywhere. Dolly is definitely an Off-Farm Income producer, and you will enjoy her story. More Places You Can Listen to Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald:
On today's episode we are profiling a company that has come up with a very unique concept to improve farming and improve lives locally, here in the United States, as well as globally. I will be speaking with Randy Krotz, the CEO of Agwiki, and he will be talking all about the concept and why it is both beneficial to American Farmers while being benevolent to the rest of the world at the same time. My discussion with Randy is not the first time that I have learned about Agwiki. About one year ago I had a great conversation with one of the founders and creators of Agwiki, John LaRose Jr., and learned about how this company came about. While Agwiki is not a sponsor of the Off-Farm Income Podcast, I have been intrigued with the concept ever since. I always enjoy efficient products that accomplish two or more positive things simultaneously, and Agwiki appears to be once such product. Today's interview is not an endorsement or effort to get you to subscribe to or invest in Agwiki. However, I do think that the concept of Agwiki is powerful and its origination is organic. Therefore, it is something that I wanted to share with all of you in the Off-Farm Income audience. More Places You Can Listen to Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald:
As you drive the rural roads of Wisconsin, and note all the farms that populate that space - you should know that most of them are not generating enough money to stay afloat without off farm income. That's the conclusion of a survey done by Dr. Steve Deller, Professor and Community Development Specialist, Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics on the UW-Madison campus. He explains the results to Pam Jahnke. The 2022 Wisconsin State FFA Convention is looking to break records with attendance this year! Pam Jahnke talks to Cheryl Zimmerma, executive director of the Wisconsin FFA Association. Continuing with more conversation from the State FFA Convenion, Pam Jahnke visits with Abi Quinlan, executive director of the WI FFA Foundation. While new to the position, Quinlan is very familiar with Wisconsin FFA and has some lofty goals for 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A recent survey found that on average, Wisconsin farms source 75% of their income from off-farm sources. Dr. Steven Deller from the Department of Agricultural & Applied Economics at the University of Wisconsin Madison says over time the dependency on off-farm income has increased, and is no longer desired just for insurance. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today's episode is a bit different than any normal, Off-Farm Income episode. Today I am speaking with Kathleen Dowling. Kathleen and I have a lot in common. We both grew up in California, we both started our collegiate education at a community college, we both had a dream of moving to Montana, we both became Montana state residents and we both got ag degrees from Montana State University. Recently I saw a post on the Facebook Group, My Job Depends On Ag, that Kathleen had put up. She expressed a bit of frustration with finding a career in agriculture and was asking for recommendations from other people. I reached out to her and offered to provide some career coaching if we could release the conversation as a podcast. She agreed to that, and today's episode is that conversation.
Would you allow a cell tower on your farm if it meant an extra $800-$2,000 per month of revenue to help sustain the farming lifestyle that you are in search of? Have you read things on the internet or heard rumors about lawsuits, bad leases or health problems caused by cell signals being transmitted close to your home? How long should a cell tower lease last? Who should be responsible for liability insurance? How much farm ground would you have to give up to have this revenue source? In today's interview with Ryan Conklin, the owner of Wright & Moore Law Co. in Ohio we will talk about all of these questions. This episode was inspired by an article written by Ryan's predecessor, Robert Moore, in 2019 discussing the expansion of need for cell towers with the advent of 5G technology.
Pat Hanson is the owner and creator of "Memory Lane Crafting Retreat" in Northwest Illinois. This is a business that was built out of necessity and a love of the farming lifestyle. Pat's father had a lifelong dream of purchasing his own land farming it, which he made come true in his 50's. Pat and her family loved the lifestyle so much that they eventually moved out to her father's farm and built their own home on five acres that he had deeded to them. Then, Pat farmed with her father on a daily basis until he suddenly passed from a stroke at the age of 75. Her father's sudden passing left Pat and her husband with the farm and the question of what to do, not only with the farm but her with her father's house. A lot of ideas were considered, and ultimately Pat followed her instincts and started a crafting retreat for women. Her farm is on a beautiful setting in a very rural area, and it draws repeat customers from all around. Rarely does Pat have any vacancies available on weekends. From my count she only has 25 nights available in all of 2022! Today, Pat has turned her father's home into a great getaway for women who love crafts. And, it is also a very viable form of off-farm income. At the same time that she is operating this business, she is exposing people to farming and teaching them about rural and agricultural living. It is truly an inspirational story!
A replay today of a special lady that reached out to me using a social media resource. She is from Europe and has a unique story to tell on how she developed her marketing company while creating her own niche for selling farm goods. She talks about how she did and is doing in today's interview.
Writing, whether it be as a fiction author, a novelist or a freelancer is one of my favorite methods of off-farm income creation that I cover. Maybe it is because when I first started this show I interviewed an author and it gave so much credibility to the concept that I was pursuing, or maybe it is because I admire people who can write for a living, but I am a fan. On today's show Rachel Gabel joins us to talk writing, raising cattle and raising goats. Rachel lives and ranches in Northeast Colorado, and she has been in that general vicinity all of her life. Growing up there and ranching there has given her special credibility with the people who read her words, and it has allowed her to write about some topics that only a few people would be accepted discussing. She primarily writes for The Fence Post Magazine, and she has been doing so since she was a young teenager.
I owe all of you a huge "thank you" as I have recently surpassed one million downloads on Off-Farm Income! When you start talking about seven figures, the scope of that number really hits you. I hoped for but never allowed myself to imaging hitting a number of downloads like this when I first began. In today's episode I wanted to make sure and talk about the milestone. Since this is a business podcast all about teaching others how to create off-farm income through entrepreneurship, I thought I would take advantage of the occasion to tell you how I did it. If you want to replicate this, you absolutely can. And today, more than ever, this type of business is a realistic model for you to support your farming dreams.
Topics this week include Off-Farm Income, Shade and Water for Livestock, Blue Green Algae, Early Summer Pest and more! Learn from our Agriculture Agents in Southeast Kansas from K-State Research and Extension's Wildcat District.
On today's show, we have a special Friday edition for you. Our guest is Elliot Prestwich, the producer of the Off-Farm Income Podcast. The stars definitely aligned to bring Elliot to his role on the show. Today we will introduce you to him, his role at Off-Farm Income, and talk about what is next to come! Elliot has an extensive background in audio production coming from the live entertainment and recording industry. He is an expert in brand management and marketing. Elliot is currently producing Off-Farm Income and the D&B Supply Show Podcasts. He even wrote his own bumper music for his special episode, lets us know what you think!
SHOW NOTES I know that the title of this episode might be a little bit misleading. I mean, does anyone really get a full night's sleep during calving season? However, we here at Off-Farm Income have uncovered an innovation that we would like to share with you. And, if the innovation works as advertised, and you grow to trust it, I believe you will get a lot of sleep during calving season. I want to give my disclaimer, the same way I always do when we profile a companies product or service. These folks are not sponsors of our show, they have not paid us any money and we are not seeking them as a sponsor. At the end of this interview, they did offer to send us some products to test, which we are going to do, but we reached out to them to profile this innovation because it sounds like it could be a game-changer for cattle farmers. Today I am interviewing Stephen Fagan. He is the head of operations and design for Moocall. Moocall is a company based in Dublin, Ireland that was founded by cattle farmers. They have developed a system for calving detection on cattle and another one for heat detection in cattle. In the interview, Stephen explains how both devices work as much as he can without giving away trade secrets. He also talks about the benefits and what you can do with these devices. This is a very exciting innovation in agricultural technology for knowing when a cow or heifer is about to calve when your cow has been serviced and whether or not she was settled. I am excited to bring this to you today! Connect with MooCall: Website: https://moocall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moocall Instagram: www.instagram.com/moocallofficial Twitter: www.twitter.com/moocallofficial Email: hello@moocall.com More Places You Can Listen to Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald:
SHOW NOTES I know that the title of this episode might be a little bit misleading. I mean, does anyone really get a full night's sleep during calving season? However, we here at Off-Farm Income have uncovered an innovation that we would like to share with you. And, if the innovation works as advertised, and you grow to trust it, I believe you will get a lot of sleep during calving season. I want to give my disclaimer, the same way I always do when we profile a companies product or service. These folks are not sponsors of our show, they have not paid us any money and we are not seeking them as a sponsor. At the end of this interview, they did offer to send us some products to test, which we are going to do, but we reached out to them to profile this innovation because it sounds like it could be a game-changer for cattle farmers. Today I am interviewing Stephen Fagan. He is the head of operations and design for Moocall. Moocall is a company based in Dublin, Ireland that was founded by cattle farmers. They have developed a system for calving detection on cattle and another one for heat detection in cattle. In the interview, Stephen explains how both devices work as much as he can without giving away trade secrets. He also talks about the benefits and what you can do with these devices. This is a very exciting innovation in agricultural technology for knowing when a cow or heifer is about to calve when your cow has been serviced and whether or not she was settled. I am excited to bring this to you today! Connect with MooCall: Website: https://moocall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moocall Instagram: www.instagram.com/moocallofficial Twitter: www.twitter.com/moocallofficial Email: hello@moocall.com
SHOW NOTES The essence of what we are trying to do at the Off-Farm Income Podcast is to give you a way to be successful in creating and then sustaining your farming and agricultural lifestyle. That really is a two-pronged attack. We tend to focus on just one of those prongs, and that is how to produce your off-farm income. Over 90% of farmers in the United States require some form of off-farm income, and we believe that in order to solve the paradox of becoming a new farmer in the United States that entrepreneurship is the best way to produce that off-farm income. The other prong of the attack is forming a farming enterprise that makes you enough money that eventually if it is your desire, you can become a full-time farmer. We love niches on Off-Farm Income, so anytime we see somebody who has found a niche and is really making a go of it, we like to profile them. That is the case with today's guest, Jacob Ebbers. Jacob and his wife, Sara, grew up showing livestock. Sheep for Jacob and cattle for Sara. In 2016 they started their first agricultural enterprise as a married couple, and it was with a form of livestock that they had never focused on before - goats. They saw the opportunity that was available to them raising show goats, and they decided to pursue this. So, they bought their first does from a breeder in Texas and trailered them back to South Dakota. At that point, they started traveling to shows to sell their goats and market their brand. And, they began using embryo transfer to develop their genetics ever faster. Soon, they had customers all over the country and a week wrote an article about them. That is how I found them and why I reached out to them. And we are lucky to have Jacob on the show to talk about how they are building this operation that may one day be their only form of income. Connect with Jacob Ebbers, Ebbers Twisted E Show Goats: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/twistedeSD Email: jacob.ebbers@gmail.com Phone: (605) 228-2682
SHOW NOTES The essence of what we are trying to do at the Off-Farm Income Podcast is to give you a way to be successful in creating and then sustaining your farming and agricultural lifestyle. That really is a two-pronged attack. We tend to focus on just one of those prongs, and that is how to produce your off-farm income. Over 90% of farmers in the United States require some form of off-farm income, and we believe that in order to solve the paradox of becoming a new farmer in the United States that entrepreneurship is the best way to produce that off-farm income. The other prong of the attack is forming a farming enterprise that makes you enough money that eventually if it is your desire, you can become a full-time farmer. We love niches on Off-Farm Income, so anytime we see somebody who has found a niche and is really making a go of it, we like to profile them. That is the case with today's guest, Jacob Ebbers. Jacob and his wife, Sara, grew up showing livestock. Sheep for Jacob and cattle for Sara. In 2016 they started their first agricultural enterprise as a married couple, and it was with a form of livestock that they had never focused on before - goats. They saw the opportunity that was available to them raising show goats, and they decided to pursue this. So, they bought their first does from a breeder in Texas and trailered them back to South Dakota. At that point, they started traveling to shows to sell their goats and market their brand. And, they began using embryo transfer to develop their genetics ever faster. Soon, they had customers all over the country and a week wrote an article about them. That is how I found them and why I reached out to them. And we are lucky to have Jacob on the show to talk about how they are building this operation that may one day be their only form of income. Connect with Jacob Ebbers, Ebbers Twisted E Show Goats: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/twistedeSD Email: jacob.ebbers@gmail.com Phone: (605) 228-2682 More Places You Can Listen to Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald:
SHOW NOTES: Today we get to profile a very innovative and hard-working farmer. At the same time, we get to tell a story that we have told before, and we get to show you a great model for creating a sustainable farm as well as creating off-farm income. Allen Deutz is the owner of a farm purchased by his great-grandfather in 1920 in southwestern Minnesota. In just one more year this will be a century farm. Like so many generational farmers Allen was faced with creating a business model that would allow him to continue to farm the property and have it available for the next generation. Allen first tried the dairy business, as his father had operated this farm as dairy. However, even as he was excelling in his performance as a dairy farmer, the economics of the dairy industry pushed him right out at his small scale. So, Allen transitioned to raising some commodities - corn and soybeans, raising grass-fed beef, raising all-natural pork, and raising free-range meat chickens. It is in this diversity that Allen has been able to create a system that is regenerative and hedges against low prices in any one area. Allen recently purchased a no-till drill for planting on his own property. He realized two things. First, when he was not planting that piece of equipment was just sitting there, not making any money. Second, because of the wet spring, his region had been having many farmers who had not been able to plant and could use his help planting in cover crops for the rest of the season. Thus, a form of off-farm income was born. ADVICE FROM ALLEN: PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP: Allen suggests that you do not borrow money to buy equipment just so you can own it. Research whether or not it makes you money to own the equipment vs. hiring the work done or renting the equipment. EASY: Renting is easy, and if you do this for a season it can help you figure out whether or not purchasing the same equipment makes sense. PERSONAL HABIT: Allen is very good about penciling out expenses and whether or not he is making money on any given aspect of his farm. This has led him to another form of off-farm income in the off-season where he does this for other farmers. CONTACT INFORMATION: Website: LINK Facebook: LINK Email: deutzheritagefarm@gmail.com
SHOW NOTES KEY IDEAS: Today we get to profile a very innovative and hard-working farmer. At the same time, we get to tell a story that we have told before, and we get to show you a great model for creating a sustainable farm as well as creating off-farm income. Allen Deutz is the owner of a farm purchased by his great-grandfather in 1920 in southwestern Minnesota. In just one more year this will be a century farm. Like so many generational farmers Allen was faced with creating a business model that would allow him to continue to farm the property and have it available for the next generation. Allen first tried the dairy business, as his father had operated this farm as dairy. However, even as he was excelling in his performance as a dairy farmer, the economics of the dairy industry pushed him right out at his small scale. So, Allen transitioned to raising some commodities - corn and soybeans, raising grass-fed beef, raising all-natural pork, and raising free-range meat chickens. It is in this diversity that Allen has been able to create a system that is regenerative and hedges against low prices in any one area. Allen recently purchased a no-till drill for planting on his own property. He realized two things. First, when he was not planting that piece of equipment was just sitting there, not making any money. Second, because of the wet spring, his region had been having many farmers who had not been able to plant and could use his help planting in cover crops for the rest of the season. Thus, a form of off-farm income was born. ADVICE FROM ALLEN: PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP: Allen suggests that you do not borrow money to buy equipment just so you can own it. Research whether or not it makes you money to own the equipment vs. hiring the work done or renting the equipment. EASY: Renting is easy, and if you do this for a season it can help you figure out whether or not purchasing the same equipment makes sense. PERSONAL HABIT: Allen is very good about penciling out expenses and whether or not he is making money on any given aspect of his farm. This has led him to another form of off-farm income in the off-season where he does this for other farmers. CONTACT INFORMATION: Website: LINK Facebook: LINK Email: deutzheritagefarm@gmail.com More Places You Can Listen to Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald:
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast. This week I’m going to talk with a fellow farm podcaster. He’s Matt Brechwald, producer of the Off Farm Income Podcast and a lot more. Matt produces a lot of podcasts and when I learned about what he’s doing I wanted to talk with him about it since he really jumped into farm podcasting in a big way. So, listen in to our conversation and at the end we let you know the best way to find either of us. I’m going to keep in touch with Matt and hope you’ll subscribe to his podcasts. So that’s the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you’ve enjoyed it and thank you for listening.
Normally when I sit down to write out show notes for Off-Farm Income the words just flow out of me. For this particular episode that is not so easy. Today we hit a milestone of 1,000 episodes. I'm not sure that any other agricultural podcaster has done that. Even if someone has, the number is going to be small. I could never have done this without all of you tuning in, reaching out to me and listening to the show. I owe you a huge debt of gratitude. I feel like I am just getting started and the best is yet to come. I love what I do, and I could never have imagined the response I would get from all of you. Thank you so very much, and I am excited to bring you a thousand more! More Places You Can Listen to Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald:
Catch Between The Beaches Podcast host, Brad Phares, on the opposite side of the microphone this week as we feature his appearance on the Off-Farm Income Podcast with Matt Brechwald where they discuss a wide array of topics relative to Florida ranching and sharing that story through podcasting.
Agweek Staff Writer Emily Beal joins Jenny Schlecht and Al Winmill to talk about her recent cover story on the contributions of off-farm income and health insurance for farm families. You can read her story here: https://www.agweek.com/business/agriculture/6845385-Off-farm-income-is-more-than-working-for-the-insurance
SHOW NOTES KEY IDEAS: Entrepreneurship is the only option If you want to farm, the further away from a major city you can get the more the land prices will reflect on their production capability. But, there will be fewer jobs available to you, likely with lower salaries. How will you produce your off-farm income? 92% of farmers in the U.S. rely on it for household income, either created by themselves or their spouse. If you are going to take a full-time job, what do you do when you need time for farm management activities? calving Irrigation raking hay swathing harvest etc. If you are making a big transition from a city career to a rural & farming lifestyle you might have skills and/or education that is not applicable in your new hometown. If that is the case, can you use these skills to create your own business? Turn your previous employer into a client? Work remotely? Teach online? If you are going to keep a full-time career job in the city, what is a reasonable commute? 20 miles 40 miles 60 miles Don't look at entrepreneurship as your lifestyle choice. Look at farming as your lifestyle choice and figure out a game plan that will allow you to make that happen. In this model, the production of your off-farm income no longer defines your working life. It is now the means to allow your working life. This is why I call agriculture the “ultimate lifestyle business”. Other than being an actor, artist, or musician this is the only profession where people will work a second job, just so they have a shot at doing the first. We are choosing this business of agriculture because there is such a strong, intrinsic reward for us that we are willing to make these sacrifices just for the chance to do it for a living. We are choosing this career for the lifestyle because as a brand new farmer who has to develop their operation we cannot do it for the earnings. If our career decision was solely earnings-based this would not make any sense. We could clearly make more money, in less time, with less risk and more benefits at a city job, in a subdivision house with city neighbors. CHOOSING YOUR BUSINESS When you are choosing your business try to look at things with demand in the area and nobody filling it. Or, look at a business in which you could do a better job? Or, find a business that somebody wants out of with good potential. I would refer you to episode #480 about finding a true business opportunity. Don't get hung up on the earning capability of your business idea in its first phases. One thing I can say for sure is that as you start working for yourself you will start to see opportunities and ways to generate more revenue than you were unable to see prior to beginning. In other words, after you get started you are going to find more money. YOUR ONLY OPTION How are you going to farm well enough, that you can eventually become that full-time farmer (or most time farmer) that you want to be? As you are starting out, whether it be with livestock or crops, you need every advantage you can get. That might mean a 100% calf crop. Or that might mean a couple of bushel yield bump. One thing I learned in my two years of riding around with crop advisors was that the best farmers seemed to be the ones that were out there with their herds or crops. They were able to detect subtle changes or illness early and do something about it before it hurt their bottom line. How can you do this if you are at work all day? How do you get the time to react if you discover a problem when you've driven home from a long day of work? NOT AN OBLIGATION All you have to do is go onto social media to find lots of people who will tell you not to try farming. They will say many things such as: “How do you make $1,000,000 farming? Start with $3,000,000” Or, “you can't make any money farming” Or, “the only way to make enough to survive is to become really big because of the small margins” Or, “only the big guys get enough funding from the government to make a difference” Or, “the deck is stacked against you” Or just…..” don't do it” These words, unfortunately, come from people who were just like you at one point. They had a dream of farming, and for one reason or another it did not work out. There are no guarantees here, and we could all suffer the same fate and have to give up our farm someday, I included. Farming is a business, and it may not go our way. But, we don't want to end up discouraging others. I think that discouragement comes from years of struggling to work full-time and farm on the side. When you do that you can burn out, and pretty soon the dream fades away. The farm becomes just another obligation, and you then look at it only from the mathematical perspective and decide it is not worth it. I don't want any of us to lose the passion for this lifestyle because of burnout. Entrepreneurship solves so much of this for us. It allows you to manage your farm better, to give you every advantage possible. And, it helps to keep us invigorated and avoid that dangerous burnout. Will you use entrepreneurship to create your Off-Farm Income?
SHOW NOTES INTRODUCING MEGAN CLARK! I once heard luck defined as "when preparation meets opportunity". I love this definition of luck because so many people on the sidelines think that people who achieve could easily be replaced by any other person off of the street if they just happened to have "luck" shine on them that day. When I first started hosting a radio show and podcast for D&B Supply one of our family friends asked me about how that had occurred. Before, I could explain she said "just fell into it?" or, to paraphrase, "just got lucky?" There was a bit of luck involved in this happening. I had actually called D&B Supply to inquire about creating a podcast for them, and I was lucky in the fact that they had decided to make a radio show and were trying to figure out how to find a host. But, what my friend didn't see was that I had invested my own money in equipment for broadcasting about two years earlier. And, for the past two years, I had been hosting a growing podcast called Off-Farm Income with no pay. But during that time I had been developing my skills as an interviewer, learning to find guests, and becoming a consistent broadcaster. It was this background, combined with the fact that D&B was looking for a host that led to me being chosen for this opportunity. My interview with Megan Clark reminded me of this saying and this part of my life. No youth organization in the entire world does what the FFA does. The FFA does a great job of developing skills in students (preparation) and creating situations in which they can use those skills to accomplish great things (opportunity). This is done through the efforts of the National FFA, State FFA Organizations, State FFA Foundations, Regional FFA Associations, and individual chapters. Megan had a lot of things pulling her towards the FFA. She lives on a farm and her parents and sister were all in the FFA. But it was going to one of her sister's award banquets and seeing FFA members being rushed up onto the stage to receive awards and accolades that really lit Megan's fire. By the time Megan was in the 8th Grade, she had joined the FFA. Megan took this fire and started working hard, being very active, and achieving in her FFA chapter. A few years prior to her even being eligible to become an FFA member some innovative leaders in her region of Iowa had started a media group comprised of FFA members called Current Ag Concerns. This has now transformed into CAC Media Group. So, while Megan was growing up and waiting to become eligible to be in the FFA, people were already creating opportunities that she could later take advantage of. During Megan's sophomore year of high school, these two paths converged. Megan's passion and preparation met the opportunity created by the CAC Media Group. The National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado was coming up and the CAC was traveling there to cover the event. Somebody on the team was unable to make the trip, and they needed to find a student to fill in. Megan's FFA Coach recognized her talent and hard work based on how active Megan had been up to that point. She invited Megan to come on the trip and fill in. The trip went well, and Megan brought the same work ethic and enthusiasm that she had for the FFA to the CAC Media Group. Soon, she became a regular fill-in on the team. Then it was time to find new, full-time, team members to replace the graduating seniors, and Megan applied. She was selected. Now, she is a full-time team member, and she has traveled all over the United States covering events and conducting interviews. She has been published in major publications on the radio and on cable television networks. Megan is one of the "lucky" ones. At least in the way that I define it. She worked hard, demonstrated value and when the opportunity came, she was ready!
Sign Up To Receive Our FFA Stories Newsletter! Email address: SHOW NOTES INTRODUCING MEGAN CLARK! I once heard luck defined as "when preparation meets opportunity". I love this definition of luck because so many people on the sidelines think that people who achieve could easily be replaced by any other person off of the street if they just happened to have "luck" shine on them that day. When I first started hosting a radio show and podcast for D&B Supply one of our family friends asked me about how that had occurred. Before, I could explain she said "just fell into it?" or, to paraphrase, "just got lucky?" There was a bit of luck involved in this happening. I had actually called D&B Supply to inquire about creating a podcast for them, and I was lucky in the fact that they had decided to make a radio show and were trying to figure out how to find a host. But, what my friend didn't see was that I had invested my own money in equipment for broadcasting about two years earlier. And, for the past two years, I had been hosting a growing podcast called Off-Farm Income with no pay. But during that time I had been developing my skills as an interviewer, learning to find guests, and becoming a consistent broadcaster. It was this background, combined with the fact that D&B was looking for a host that led to me being chosen for this opportunity. My interview with Megan Clark reminded me of this saying and this part of my life. No youth organization in the entire world does what the FFA does. The FFA does a great job of developing skills in students (preparation) and creating situations in which they can use those skills to accomplish great things (opportunity). This is done through the efforts of the National FFA, State FFA Organizations, State FFA Foundations, Regional FFA Associations, and individual chapters. Megan had a lot of things pulling her towards the FFA. She lives on a farm and her parents and sister were all in the FFA. But it was going to one of her sister's award banquets and seeing FFA members being rushed up onto the stage to receive awards and accolades that really lit Megan's fire. By the time Megan was in the 8th Grade, she had joined the FFA. Megan took this fire and started working hard, being very active, and achieving in her FFA chapter. A few years prior to her even being eligible to become an FFA member some innovative leaders in her region of Iowa had started a media group comprised of FFA members called Current Ag Concerns. This has now transformed into CAC Media Group. So, while Megan was growing up and waiting to become eligible to be in the FFA, people were already creating opportunities that she could later take advantage of. During Megan's sophomore year of high school, these two paths converged. Megan's passion and preparation met the opportunity created by the CAC Media Group. The National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado was coming up and the CAC was traveling there to cover the event. Somebody on the team was unable to make the trip, and they needed to find a student to fill in. Megan's FFA Coach recognized her talent and hard work based on how active Megan had been up to that point. She invited Megan to come on the trip and fill in. The trip went well, and Megan brought the same work ethic and enthusiasm that she had for the FFA to the CAC Media Group. Soon, she became a regular fill-in on the team. Then it was time to find new, full-time, team members to replace the graduating seniors, and Megan applied. She was selected. Now, she is a full-time team member, and she has traveled all over the United States covering events and conducting interviews. She has been published in major publications on the radio and on cable television networks. Megan is one of the "lucky" ones. At least in the way that I define it. She worked hard, demonstrated value and when the opportunity came, she was ready!
SHOW NOTES KEY IDEAS: Those of us that work in agriculture, and especially those of us that are working towards a future in agriculture are very busy. We are either totally devoted to the farm or business that we now have started, or we have pinpoint focus on how we are going to achieve that dream and are doing everything we can to reach it. Focus and passion are wonderful things, but they can pull you away from a balanced life. In the end, it does not matter if you have accomplished a major dream, if the rest of your life is left neglected and in shambles. The first thing to usually get neglected when we find this focus is ourselves. And the first part of ourselves to get neglected is usually our physical health. There has to be somebody, somewhere who understands us and how difficult it can be to find time to pursue better physical health. Well, let me introduce you Dolly Denson - The Fit Stock Show Mom. Here is someone who comes from our shared experiences and has figured out a system to help all of us find the time and ability to eat well and exercise, even when we are busy and on the go. Dolly is a health and fitness coach who lives in our agricultural world. Specifically, she has children who show animals all over the State of Texas, and she knows what kind of challenges that brings for parents. She has figured out how to tailor a health and fitness plan to the needs of us in agriculture through careful selection of workouts and nutritional programs. Dolly is now a sponsor of the Off-Farm Income Podcast. So, you will hear me singing her praises every week. Autumm and I are participating in her program, but for very different reasons. Autumm is in great shape, and wants to be in even better shape. I am am the typical person who has been so focused on my other projects that I am out of shape.......and I need help! Thanks goodness for Dolly! I hope you enjoy Dolly's passion and enthusiasm in this episode. There is a lot of good information here not just about fitness, but also about how she identified her niche in agriculture and has been able to turn it into a business that she can do from anywhere. Dolly is definitely an Off-Farm Income producer, and you will enjoy her story. CONTACT INFORMATION AND LINKS: Dolly's Website: LINK Dolly's Facebook: LINK Dolly's Twitter: LINK Dolly's Email: dolly@dollydenson.com I hope you enjoy the episode. Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: t. Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
SHOW NOTES As part of my journey in agricultural podcasting I have found myself as the editor and producer of the Bulkloads Podcast. The Bulkloads Podcast is part of Bulkloads.com, which is a service for truck drivers hauling bulk freight. Naturally this is related to agriculture with all of the hauling of bulk commodities around the country. I was recently editing an episode for Bulkloads, and their guest was Mike Wade. Mike grew up on a dairy farm in Northern California and eventually found his way into truck driving. Along the way Mike saw a homemade tool another driver had, and he thought he would like to make one for himself. However, when he designed it he added on other features that he always wanted in a tool that would help him in other ways. Huckleberry's Hammers were born. As I listened to Mike's interview on the Bulkloads Podcast and he described all of the uses for this tool, I couldn't help thinking about how I could use it around my farm. And then I thought of how other farmers could have several of these spread out around their farm vehicles so they always had the right tool available. It was at that point that I reached out to Mike to have him as a guest on Off-Farm Income as well. Mike is not a sponsor of my show, and he has not provided me with any free product. But, I was inspired by his story and thought that his tool could really benefit some people. Plus, I wanted to help out a small inventor who was bound and determined to build in America. HOW TO CONTACT MIKE: Facebook: LINK Website: LINK Telephone: (765) 617-1772 Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
SHOW NOTES In this week's bonus episode we re-visit a very interesting niche business - oiling saddles. Going back to episode #103 I speak with Josh Waltman about his saddle oiling business. What a great way to make money in your spare time in the evenings if you need the side income. I hope this is the answer for you! KEY IDEAS: ADVICE FROM JOSH WALTMAN: Work Hard: Josh has proven to himself that hard work pays off No Procrastination: Josh learned the hard way that putting something off, just because a customer was not specific about a time frame, can do bad things to your reputation. Do Your Best Work - Every Time: Each time you do a job, it should be better than the last one. BEST BUSINESS ADVICE THAT JOSH WALTMAN HAS RECEIVED: When The Going Gets Tough.....You all know the saying. Josh lives it. As soon as a job starts feeling overwhelming or mundane, he works even harder. PERSONAL HABIT THAT ADS TO JOSH WALTMAN'S SUCCESS: Put First Things First - put your head down and get the job done. JOSH WALTMAN'S CONTACT INFORMATION: Email: joshwaltman1@gmail.com Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
"What a fun way to end season 2 of #InFocus! Matt Brechwald from the Off-Farm Income podcast joins us to talk about measuring the success of your campaign. And guess what - it's not all about the numbers. We talk about brand awareness and customer relations in this honest and direct chat that you're sure to enjoy. Listen and learn at www.backroad-productions.com/podcast/14-2"
SHOW NOTES KEY IDEAS: Audrey Levatino is the author of Woman-Powered Farm: Manual for a Self-Sufficient Lifestyle from Homestead to Field. This is a book that I was intrigued by when I first heard of it, and I knew that I would want to have Audrey on the show. I initially got the book so that I could read it prior to interviewing Audrey. However, it turned out to be much more than work. I could not put the book down. If you have an interest or passion for farming, this book is for you - man or woman. Audrey's stories, writing style and coverage of a wide breadth of issues that come with running your own farm will inspire you to either get moving or keep moving. Audrey covers a multitude of issues. Everything from what tools to buy to how to protect your small livestock are covered. She even breaks down income potential by the size of the ground you own or have access to, and the most profitable business possible on that size of ground. Audrey was a great pleasure to speak with, and I continued to be inspired in our actual conversation, just as I was reading her writing. ADVICE FROM AUDREY LEVATINO: BE AN INTERN: Audrey suggests working on a lot of farms. She describes people she knows that have interned on other people's farms and been paid to do it as "going to graduate school." You can learn invaluable information during internships, including not just how to do things, but things that you do not want to do! This is very important information that will either allow to you avoid an enterprise that requires this work of you, or know that you need to prepare to hire people to do this drudgery for you. HIRE INTERNS: This is a consistent theme throughout Audrey's book. Audrey is very good about recognizing that there must be a balance between the work that must be done and burn out. We all know that farms require a lot of work. What we do not want to do is burn out and lose the dream! BEST BUSINESS ADVICE THAT AUDREY LEVATINO HAS RECEIVED: SLOW: Audrey is a big proponent of taking it slow, growing slow and staying out of debt. This will do so much to make and keep you successful. As we mentioned before, there is a lot of work to be done on a farm. This can lead to stress. Unlike a 40 hour per week job, when you take time for yourself and you own a farm, you always know that you are choosing yourself over your farm. When you have a "regular" job and the weekend rolls around, you are done and concentrate just on yourself, guilt free. Debt only adds to this potential stress. If you are growing too fast, and you incur debt as a result, you could find yourself with less freedom than you intended because you have to service the debt. PERSONAL HABIT THAT ADS TO AUDREY LEVATINO'S SUCCESS: NAMES: Audrey has worked hard to learn and remember, not just people's names, but also to get to know information about them. When it comes to developing her customer base the more of a relationship she can develop with her customers, the stronger the bond. This is how she develops return customers and word of mouth marketing. BOOK RECOMMENDATION: Obviously the book recommendation for this week is Woman-Powered Farm: Manual for a Self-Sufficient Lifestyle from Homestead to Field. As I stated above, this is a great book, equally applicable for women and men. I highly suggest this book! AUDREY LEVATINO'S CONTACT INFORMATION AND SUGGESTED LINKS: Audrey's Telephone Number: (540)832-3574 Audrey's Email Address: tedslaststand@gmail.com Audrey's Website: tedslaststand.com Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
Today’s the anniversary of Rural Radio 147 being on SiriusXM! This Wednesday edition of RealAg Radio has all the latest ag news with host Shaun Haney, plus: Jason Gleaves, with a food-waste reducing product spotlight from Bio-Cycle Solutions and GFL Environmental Inc.; Rene Van Acker, dean of the Ontario Agricultural College at University of Guelph... Read More
Today’s the anniversary of Rural Radio 147 being on SiriusXM! This Wednesday edition of RealAg Radio has all the latest ag news with host Shaun Haney, plus: Jason Gleaves, with a food-waste reducing product spotlight from Bio-Cycle Solutions and GFL Environmental Inc.; Rene Van Acker, dean of the Ontario Agricultural College at University of Guelph... Read More
Sign Up To Receive Our FFA Stories Newsletter! Email address: SHOW NOTES KEY IDEAS: Never before have I seen the business of photography broken down the way today's guest does it. Everything that I have ever taught on this show is proven by the advice that Todd Klassy has to develop a photography business. Among other things, he discusses: Finding A Niche Relocating To Where The Work Is And Where It Is Sustainable Creating The Product Is Only 10% Of The Work Much, Much More If you have an interest in photography and would love for this to be your full-time source of Off-Farm Income, this is a "can't miss" episode. What is unique about where you are farming right now? Or, where could you move that would offer you affordable farm ground and a niche that would set you apart as a photographer? Links To Todd Klassy's Work: https://todd-klassy.pixels.com https://www.toddklassy.com/about Photos In Ag: LINK Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
It is not unusual to hear from folks who want farming to be a foundational part of their lives. They may have a job that requires a long commute to their office cubicle or they are living on a small farm and can't quite make a living, with out adding some off farm income. Matt Brechwald was one of those people before he made the jump to a small farm in Idaho and started adding enterprises off farm that allowed him with his wife and daughter to live their dream. For Matt those off farm enterprises included speaking, coaching and podcasting to help others "get in to farming and to love their lifestyle." I literally heard of Matt when he interviewed my brother, Ron Wasson about www.barnyarddiscoveries.com. That and loads of other informative podcasts can be found at www.offincome.com or the Off Farm Income podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.
Nathan Kramer from John Deere talks about the new X9 1000 and 1100 combines; American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall discusses carbon credits; National Corn Growers Association Yield Contest deadline approaches and agricultural entrepreneurship coach Matt Brechwald talks off-farm income. The episode features the music of Southbound 75.
Sign Up To Receive Our FFA Stories Newsletter! Email address: SHOW NOTES KEY IDEAS: I appreciate all of our listeners' understanding as we alter our format a bit during the coronavirus shutdown. I have been trying to use the podcast to provide information that I think can be useful for folks navigating these tricky times. Due to the nature of what I do, I happen to be exposed to a lot of information about different opportunities that might be beneficial to you during this moment in time. So, when I learn of something that I believe could be helpful, I like to share it with you. I am doing exactly that on today's episode. I will be speaking with Jessica Stewart, the president of Bloom For Good. Bloom For Good is a fundraising company with a large emphasis on the FFA. They have a unique way of offering FFA chapters fundraising opportunities that will not violate any social distancing guidelines. Also, Bloom For Good gives a very large percentage of the revenue from the fundraising directly back to the FFA chapter as well as the state's FFA organization and the National FFA. I have had a few conversations with the folks from Bloom For Good, and I believe that what they are offering might be just what many FFA chapters are looking for right now when they are trying to determine how they will pay for student activities next year. I hope this helps! DISCLAIMER: The Off-Farm Income Podcast is in no way affiliated with Bloom For Good or any of their products. We have not been paid to conduct this interview, and Bloom For Good is not a sponsor of the show. Also, Bloom For Good is not providing me with free product in exchange for appearing on this show. I reached out to Jessica for this interview. They did not ask me if they could be guests on Off-Farm Income. I am telling you all of this because I want you to have a clear idea of what I am doing on this episode. I am trying to provide you with some information that may help you. CONTACT INFORMATION AND LINKS: Website: LINK Telephone: 888.435.1980 Email: info@bloomforgood.com Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
Along with roiling markets for farm products, the pandemic has cut off-farm income for many farm families.
Sign Up To Receive Our FFA Stories Newsletter! Email address: SHOW NOTES KEY IDEAS: Last July my daughter's lamb did not make weight for the county fair. This was the second time in four years of showing sheep that this had happened, and it was frustrating. We had purposefully bought a larger lamb to make sure we would make weight. And, about two months prior to the fair he was just eight pounds away. And then, he just stopped eating. About one month after the fair was over the sting of not making weight for a second time was still there. Around that time, I did an interview for the D&B Supply Show Podcast. I spoke with Colby Gines, the Chief Operating Officer for Pro-Earth Animal Health, about one of their products called Zesterra. During this interview Colby talked about stress in animals, the build up of acid and the release of the hormone, cortisol. As he was talking I kept thinking about Hattie's lamb going off feed, and I asked him about this. He suggested using their product, CattlActive, with the lambs to keep this from happening. I put a note in my calendar right then to try this, this year and to do an episode about it. Today's episode is devoted to giving a possible solution to those of you showing animals and those of you whose kids will be showing animals, and who are frustrated like I was with your animal going off feed. I am hoping that the products that Pro-Earth Animal Health offer might be the solution that fixes your frustration. DISCLAIMER: The Off-Farm Income Podcast is in no way affiliated with Pro-Earth Animal Health or any of their products. We have not been paid to conduct this interview, and Pro-Earth Animal Health is not a sponsor of the show. Also, Pro-Earth Animal Health is not providing me with free product in exchange for appearing on this show. Also, I reached out to Colby for this interview. They did not ask me if they could come on Off-Farm Income. I have not used any of their products yet, but I am going to this fair season. I thought about waiting until I had tried their products out to do this episode. However, I decided to share this information with you now rather than waiting for another year. So,I have not proven the concept yet. I am telling you all of this because I want you to have a clear idea of what I am doing on this episode. I am trying to provide you with some information that may help you. However, I cannot stand behind the product yet, because we will be using it for the first time this year. I hope this helps you, and I hope that it helps us! CONTACT INFORMATION AND LINKS: Website: LINK Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
California agriculture is seeing lost markets and off-farm income, and reduced meat processing is causing a clogged livestock and meat supply chain.
Sign Up To Receive Our FFA Stories Newsletter! Email address: So, who is this show really for? Well, when I was recording episode #780 last week with Dan Frank I had an epiphany. I realized that I have always though that this show was for farmers....and it is. But, it is so much more than that, and that was the epiphany that I had. Off-Farm Income is for people who want to work. It is for people who value work, work ethic and the virtues that come with that. There is so much talk these days about uneven playing fields, oppression and unfairness. But, there is a group of people who put their heads down, ignore all of that and get to work to make something great for themselves. This show is for all of you! Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
Seg 3 – “FFA Today” contributor and host of the Off-Farm Income podcast, Matt Brechwald, introduces us to Callie Neeley of the Grayville Jr./Sr. High School FFA in Grayville, Illinois, who helped pull together a romantic Valentine’s Day fundraiser which benefited not only her chapter but the community.
Sign Up To Receive Our FFA Stories Newsletter! Email address: I spent several years wanting an agricultural and entrepreneurial lifestyle and having no idea how to find them. There were times that I dared not even think about the life that I had envisioned because it felt like I would never achieve that, and a lifestyle like that was for other people. Finally, after a couple of years of banging my head against the wall, trying to figure out what kind of business I should start I gave up. I gave up trying to match my future business with my elusive "passion". Then I just looked for business opportunities that would have me working in the industry I was interested in, and that had the potential to succeed. This is how I started my first ever business, Idaho Gopher Control. If you are dreaming of the life you want to live but getting frustrated that it might never happen, I have been where you are now. In today's episode I want to share a free resource with you that can help you identify what type of business you might start. Even if you don't find the business type you are looking for, this resource can re-inspire and energize you because of all of the ideas you will have after combing through this And, I'll give you a hint...this resource has been right under your nose the entire time! Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
Come On A Once In A Lifetime Vacation With Us To Tuscany! Just Click The Picture Below For Details Or Call (877) 279-2350 SHOW NOTES KEY IDEAS: It is amazing to me that I am so lucky to be able to make a living podcasting about agriculture. But there is another way that people are creating off-farm income by sharing their farming stories, and that is through YouTube. More and more of these folks are emerging, and it is amazing to see how many people out there want to know about farming. Today I get to speak with Ryan Kuster. He is the creator of the YouTube Channel, How Farms Work. From his farm in Wisconsin, Ryan farms with his brother and his father. Like all "overnight successes" there is a lot more to this story than just starting a YouTube channel. Ryan has had an interest in photography and videography since high school, and it was his natural interest that led him into this business. ADVICE FROM RYAN: HOPE - Don't give up hope, keep pushing forward. TIME - Building something like "How Farms Work" takes time. Just because it looks like an overnight success does not mean that it is. BEST BUSINESS ADVICE: The best business advice that Ryan has received is to keep close track of your expenses so you can always make sure that you are working at a profit. PERSONAL HABIT: Ryan is very strict on his schedule. He knows what he wants to accomplish in a day and sticks to his schedule. CONTACT INFORMATION AND LINKS: Website: howfarmswork.com Email: LINK YouTube: LINK Where You Can Listen To Us: LISTEN TO US ON SATELLITE RADIO! WE ARE CONTRIBUTORS TO "FFA TODAY" ON RURAL RADIO SIRIUS XM CHANNEL 147! "FFA Today" airs on Rural Radio Sirius XM Channel 147 Saturdays at 7:30 AM Eastern and Sundays at 6:30 PM Eastern. Please let RURAL RADIO know that you like hearing us on their channel! Here is how to contact them and leave feedback: Email: zacht@rfdtv.com Website: RuralRadio147.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/RURALRADIO147
Our guest today is Matt Brechwald. Some of you might know him as the man behind podcasts like Off Farm Income and the new podcast, Microphone Money. In our interview today, Matt will talk about the many reasons farmers might need some off farm income as well as entrepreneurship advice he gives his listeners. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Receive a free guide on how YOU can help farmers! https://www.offincome.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-off-farm-income-podcast/id952577100?mt=2 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/microphone-money/id1464240444 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Our guest today is Matt Brechwald. Some of you might know him as the man behind podcasts like Off Farm Income and the new podcast, Microphone Money. In our interview today, Matt will talk about the many reasons farmers might need some off farm income as well as entrepreneurship advice he gives his listeners. https://www.offincome.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-off-farm-income-podcast/id952577100?mt=2 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/microphone-money/id1464240444 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Come On A Once In A Lifetime Vacation With Us To Tuscany! Just Click The Picture Below For Details Or Call (877) 279-2350 Today is milestone episode for us at Off-Farm Income. Episode #750! We can't believe that we've been lucky enough to publish this many shows. Today, we want to catch you up on the state of our business, and the different streams of revenue we are using to make this all happen. Our Farm We are currently expanding our farm. There is so much development around us that buying more land seems to be out of the question right now. However, as our relationships with neighbors and people in the community continue to grow, we have more opportunties to lease ground. This is how we are growing. So, this year we will be leasing more ground and raising more cattle. I am also considering hiring a high school kid to help out around the farm this summer with irrigation and other tasks where we can use help. It is all a matter of figuring out where to best spend my time and how to operate efficiently. Podcast The Off-Farm Income Podcast continues to grow and to be the marquee show in my lineup. I am considering going to five episodes per week, which is a big step and time commitment. However, it seems like the natural evolution of the show. We currently have two sponsors: Powder River Livestock Handling Equipment who has been with us for a long time now. And, Lacrosse Footwear who has just become a sponsor. I am very proud of having both sponsors and of the fact that I knew, trusted and used their brands long before they were both sponsors. We are seeking at least one more sponsor, but thanks to all of you we can be picky. So, we are being picky, and we have a few different sponsors in mind that we would love to be affiliated with. We are pursuing those both right now, and you will be the first to know when something happens. The D&B Supply Show & Podcast is being scaled back. My client decided to end the radio portion of the show for 2020 and to cut the podcast back to one episode per month. Also, we have stopped the D&B Supply ad campaign on the Off-Farm Income Podcast, which you may have noticed. I really am a fan of D&B Supply and love being affiliated with them. We will see how this next progression into this show goes. We just wrapped up the second season of the Corn Revolution Podcast. It has been a real treat hosting this show, and I have learned a ton. Working with a team, like the one assembled by Bader Rutter and Pioneer, has been an absolutely great learning experience. And, they produce one heck of a podcast, which I am honored to be the host of. I have a new show called Microphone Money. In much the same way that I started Off-Farm Income, I started Microphone Money. I started OFI because I had discovered a way to use entrepreneurship to support my farming endeavors, and I wanted to teach other people what I had done. Microphone Money is no different. I am just teaching people how I created a podcasting business on this show, and my audience is not exclusively agricultural. Other Streams Of Revenue We continue to be involved in rental properties as well. We purchased our third rental house this fall, and that is going well. Rental property has been a great hedge against the turbulence that can be present in agriculture. Also, if we have a recession, people will still need a place to live and we believe that this business can help to see us through some of those times if they occur. Autumm continues to work as a school teacher and loves her job. I also still teach one class at a local community college because I really do enjoy teaching. Put all of this together and we get to live an incredible life and farm. It is just what we were looking for. Thank you for being a part of this 750 episode journey everyone. And here's to another 750 episodes. Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard:
Come On A Once In A Lifetime Vacation With Us To Tuscany! Just Click The Picture Below For Details Or Call (877) 279-2350 SHOW NOTES INTRODUCING KEEGAN GIBBS! Today's interview marks the second time I have been able to interview Keegan Gibbs. I first interviewed him for the D&B Supply Show Podcast as a feature involving an FFA student from our listening area. He had such a compelling story of becoming a state officer and devoting a "gap year" to serving the Oregon State FFA, that I wanted to have him on the Off-Farm Income as well. Keegan is not just a state officer. He is also a very innovative entrepreneur. His efforts have taken him all across the world, ultimately winding up working on a sheep ranch in Australia for a summer. For Keegan's SAE during high school he also started raising and selling sheep. One of the things that stood out to me about what he was doing was the fact that lots of people in his area were selling beef, but few were selling lamb. So, he decided to enter into the market that was underrepresented. A very ingenious decision for a student of his age at the time. SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE: Sheep Production HIGH SCHOOL: Heppner High School; Heppner, Oregon MASCOT: Mustangs FFA ADVISOR: Beth Dickenson CONTACT INFORMATION FOR KEEGAN GIBBS: Click on the picture below to be taken to the Heppner School FFA Department's website: Keegan's FFA Advisor's Email Address: elizabeth.dickenson@morrow.k12.or.us Heppner High School's Telephone Number: (541) 676-9138 FFA LINKS: National FFA Organization Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAE's) Support FFA Donate to FFA - One way that FFA students are able to start small businesses is through an FFA grant of $1,000. In 2014, 141 FFA students received these grants. With your donations, more students can get this head start - pay it forward. REASONS TO DONATE TO FFA: Only 2% of Americans grow and raise most of the food and livestock consumed by the other 98% as well as the rest of the world. FFA is providing the needed education, training and resources to Americans that will carry that torch forward and insure that America continues to have inexpensive, quality food. Rural Communities will rely on entrepreneurship in the future for population growth and job creation. The FFA is a major catalyst to that entrepreneurial growth. Farmers, ranchers and those working in agriculture give the rest of America incredible amounts of freedom because the search for food is as simple as going to the grocery store: “The future of American agriculture depends on the involvement and investment in America’s youth, In order to prepare for the population of tomorrow, we need to encourage America’s youth today, and show that careers in agriculture are profitable, rewarding, and vital.”. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
Did you know majority of family farms bring in off-farm income? The dream of "farming full-time" just isn't realistic in today's farm economy for most young farmers. Here Grant and Sara tackle why they have off-farm income and why it is valuable to their ability to farm.
Seven Hundred Episodes Hi Everyone. Today there is no intro, no outro and no commercials. I want to have a conversation directly with you about how this show will move forward, so I am leaving all of that out today and focusing just on you and me. I am going to be asking you for your input at the end of this show. Please, please, please send me an email, write to me on the Facebook page or call. This is your show. I want to know your thoughts. Here we are, publishing our 700th episode! This is a crazy number as the episodes just keep piling up. This has been an absolutely fantastic ride so far, and it has opened a lot of unbelievable doors for yours truly. I've got important questions coming up for you in this episode, so please stick around to hear them and please send me a response. I had no intention of making a big deal out of our 700th episode. I was going to wait until we hit 1,000 before I said anything about our numbers. But having today be our 700th episode has really turned out to be quite a coincidence, as I have been pondering what this show will look like going forward. And, I decided to come to all of you with my thoughts on this Friday episode. It wasn't until I sat down to write this and looked at what episode number this would be that I realized today was milestone episode #700. The State Of The Off-Farm Income Podcast I know you are getting the feeling that a shake up is coming. If you are like me, when somebody makes a change you assume the worst. Please let me assure you that the Off-Farm Income Podcast is in a great position, and our business is growing. There are no problems on the business side of things here in Kuna, Idaho. As a matter of fact, let me give you an update. 2019 is already the best year we have ever had from a download standpoint. Our numbers have never been stronger. We have absolutely crushed our records for numbers of downloads in a month and average downloads per month. And, we have already crushed our record for downloads in a year, and we have three months yet to count. So, thank you for that. I know that this is all because of you. Our sponsorships are strong, and I have other companies inquiring about advertising to you on this show. As always, I will only advertise for companies that I use, know and trust. As a result, right now we are testing out products for three prospective advertisers. I don't know if we will end up advertising for any of them, but we have never had product at our place from this many interested advertisers at one time before. The other aspects of our business are going well also. The D&B Supply Show is going strong, and the rest of my custom podcasting business is strong with more work in the pipeline. All of our steers are under contract, and the farm is getting to where I want it to be. And, Autumm's job is going well, and she continues to succeed in her career. So, please don't worry that there is any danger of this show going away. That is not a concern at all. Should We Evolve So here is the question that I have for all of you. Should the Off-Farm Income Podcast evolve? Let me tell you what I mean by "evolve". I have devoted this show to the topic of entrepreneurship and small businesses in agricultural for five years and 700 episodes now. 99% of the episodes that I have ever published have been on the topic of entrepreneurship in agriculture. My intention when I started this show was to provide all of you the tools you would need to support your farming endeavors through entrepreneurship. Like I always say, I really believe we need to teach and use entrepreneurship to be able to be on our farms when we need to be and to be able to buy farm ground where the price reflects its production capability. And of course, I suggest using entrepreneurship to support your farms because it allows you a flexible schedule, and it might be the only way to make money in the areas where find reasonable l...
SHOW NOTES Introducing Olivia Pflaumer! I love doing "where are they now episodes". Today's "where are they now" is a thrill. Olivia Pflaumer first appeared on Off-Farm Income on episode #154. Today she is back talking about her nomination as a national star finalist in agriscience research. When I first interviewed Olivia I was really focused on the business aspect of what she was going with selling honey. We spoke a little about her research, but that was kind of an aside since my show focuses on entrepreneurship. Well, it is the research aspect of her SAE that is propelling her to the national stage later this month. And, she is now studying agriscience at the Ohio State University with a goal of teaching other people about agriculture in the future. Good luck Olivia! SUPERVISED AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE: Agriscience Research HIGH SCHOOL: Zane Trace High School; Chillicothe, Ohio MASCOT: Pioneers FFA ADVISOR: Jennifer Johnston CONTACT INFORMATION FOR OLIVIA PFLAUMER: Click on the picture below to be taken to the Zane Trace High School Website: Olivia's FFA Advisor's Email Address: jjohnston@ztlsd.org Zane Trace High School Telephone Number: 740-775-1809 FFA LINKS: National FFA Organization Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAE's) Support FFA Donate to FFA - One way that FFA students are able to start small businesses is through an FFA grant of $1,000. In 2014, 141 FFA students received these grants. With your donations, more students can get this head start - pay it forward. REASONS TO DONATE TO FFA: Only 2% of Americans grow and raise most of the food and livestock consumed by the other 98% as well as the rest of the world. FFA is providing the needed education, training and resources to Americans that will carry that torch forward and insure that America continues to have inexpensive, quality food. Rural Communities will rely on entrepreneurship in the future for population growth and job creation. The FFA is a major catalyst to that entrepreneurial growth. Farmers, ranchers and those working in agriculture give the rest of America incredible amounts of freedom because the search for food is as simple as going to the grocery store: “The future of American agriculture depends on the involvement and investment in America’s youth, In order to prepare for the population of tomorrow, we need to encourage America’s youth today, and show that careers in agriculture are profitable, rewarding, and vital.”. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue Where Off-Farm Income And Matt Brechwald Can Be Heard: Member Of The National Association Of Farm Broadcasters
Matt Brechwald publishes the Off Farm Income podcast and farms in Kuna, Idaho. Like many people, Matt had a "good job" with good pay, good benefits, time off, and reliability. And like many people he was not satisfied. Before he knew it, he spent 15 years as a police officer, and his dream of farming was nowhere in sight. That's when he took action that let him build a business on the side, get a farm, start podcast, and get farming. That's a path easier said than done, and in this episode I talk to Matt about: How podcasting fits into the farm business? The podcast formed to help people escape the 40-hour-a-week job. It spawned its own business opportunities. How he concentrated on supporting the farm through entrepreneurship; the farm is profitable, but the household still needs additional income. Fear held him back from his entrepreneurial goal. Getting rid of debt. While working, he was self-medicating with stuff. So, it’s time to get serious about the lifestyle you choose. Debt forces you to keep the job and turns the farm lifestyle into an obligation. Consumer debt will control you. Some of your friends will be threatened when you leave your job, and they have to tell you why you're wrong. Matt’s favorite business ideas from his podcast: #77 on a portable sawmill and #291 about an excavation and construction business. Favorite Book: Do the work. Favorite Resource: 48 days podcast by Dan Miller. Personal Habit: Take a lot of notes on ideas and goals in a place that's easily accessible. Best advice: Don’t sell what you catch. Sell what you know. Contact Matt. offincome.com.
Let's set the stage: you're a farmer with a can-do attitude, but unfortunately you're on the brink of having to give up the farm. Your main operation just isn't making what you need. But there's a wonderful reality working in your favor: there are people out there who aren't like you. In fact, they will pay you to do certain work for them in more places than just the farm. This extra work just might help you keep the farm. This episode is an interview with Matt Brechwald, co-host of the Off Farm Income Podcast, about what that extra work might look like for you. Today, we're going to go over seven sources of off farm income.
Tim discusses with Matt his journey from law enforcement to farming, podcasting and rodent control. Matt took an agricultural internship in college that lead him in an unconventional direction, but he now farms with his wife and daughter in Kuna, ID. Matt also hosts the "Off Farm Income" podcast and runs a business killing rodents for farmers and ranchers. Follow Matt on Twitter @mattbrechwald Listen to his podcast on iTunes. Visit his website and Facebook Page. Thanks for listening! We really appreciate you taking the time to listen to the Future of Agriculture Podcast. The response has been outstanding. Please feel free to leave a note in the comment section below. The best way to spread the word about our Podcast is to share your favorite episode using the social media share buttons in the podcast player you are using. You can also leave a review on iTunes. This helps us spread the word about the people, perspectives, and innovations that will provide our future food, clothing, fuel, shelter, and natural resources.
Off Farm Income Matt Brechwald of the Off Farm Income Podcast with his family on the farm. Matt Brechwald, host and producer of the Off Farm Income podcast, wanted to own a farm. That would place him the 2% of the US population that feeds this country. Like many farmers, Matt would have to find another source of income outside the farm to supplement his operation. I didn't realize it, but 90% of the farmers in this country have Off Farm Income to supplement their farms and families. Matt tells us exactly what Off Farm Income is and how some people solve this challenge. There are a lot of farmers who have to find ways to make money outside the farm. That's where Matt comes in. His Off Farm Income podcast investigates the many entrepreneurial ventures to make money. Matt talks to people who have found unique and creative ways to bring in off farm income. And, Matt knows about off farm income as well as anyone. He lives it every day. His 25 acre Idaho farm is a success because of the efforts of Matt and his family. Matt credits Dan Miller, an entrepreneur and coach, with helping him focus on his strengths and find his passion. Dan Miller's podcast 48 days is a source of information and motivation to help people find their passion in life. Links mentioned on the show: Off Farm Income Website Off Farm Income Facebook About Us Welcome to the Whoa Podcast about Horses and Horsemanship. I am your host John Harrer. Along with my wife, Ranae, each week on the show we talk about some aspect of owning a horse. It could be feeding or supplementation. It could be bits and bridles, tack, or cowboy boots. We cover training problems, or competing in shows. We talk to farriers and horse chiropractors. We talk about movies, books and magazine articles. And, we travel to places we think you would like to take your horse. That's what the Whoa Podcast is all about. Contact Us We have well over 90 episodes up now and you can find them all for free on iTunes, with our Android App in the Amazon store, and now Stitcher, or wherever podcasts are distributed. Get the Stitcher app and let us know how it works. It's Free. You can also find every episode and more about the show at whoapodcast.com. Please take a moment and join our email list. Get in on the conversation with Facebook and Twitter - just look for WhoaPodcast. You are a big part of why we do this podcast. We really love getting your feedback. Please let us know your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for the show. You can email us at: John@WhoaPodcast.com I blog at TrainingJessie.blogspot.com and I have a new blog about my Louisiana Leopard Catahoula puppy named Buster at BusterBrownDog.blogspot.com and if you want to know even more - and I can't imagine why - it's all at JohnHarrer.com Thanks for listening, John & Ranae Episode #055 Support the Whoa Podcast about Horses & Horsemanship Thanks you for you support! The Whoa Podcast is independently produced. Your help defers some of the costs of producing, storing, and distributing the show. Click the Buy Now button contribute $5 to the Whoa Podcast[wpecpp name="Support the Whoa Podcast" price="5.00" align="center"]
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