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Whether you're a farmer, small business owner or simply looking for health coverage options, Ohio Farm Bureau Health Care Solutions offers programs designed with members in mind. Trevor Kirkpatrick, director of health services, Jill Clinger of the Jill Clinger Agency and Aiden Andrako of Andrako Insurance Consultants discuss available options through Ohio Farm Bureau and how they are helping Ohioans access quality, affordable health care.
The 2026 Current Agricultural Use Value (CAUV) update brings lower values in many reappraisal counties and a significant policy win on permanent pasture. Leah Curtis, associate general counsel for Ohio Farm Bureau, joins this Legal with Leah to break it all down and shares what farmers should expect.
Ohio's property taxes help pay for things like public schools, parks, police departments and other local services, generating about $24 billion in revenue a year. But homeowners have been feeling pinched lately, as some counties have seen double digit increases in property valuations leading to higher taxes for some. That has led to calls for reform, with one group hoping to eliminate property taxes entirely, with eyes now on the 2027 ballot, after failing to get a constitutional amendment proposal on this November's ballot. Ideastream Public Media has been going to public libraries and community events this summer all across Northeast Ohio to learn about the issues that are driving people to vote, and we've heard over and over that property taxes are a key issue on the top of voters' minds. That's why our newsroom recently took a weeklong deep dive into the issue called, "Ideastream Explores: Property Taxes." On Monday's "Sound of Ideas," we're going to highlight some of that reporting. We'll learn about legislative reform efforts, how property taxes impact Ohio's farmers, and what would happen if funding for important resources like libraries and parks were changed. That's part of this special edition of the Sound of Ideas. First, we'll learn more about the controversial movement to eliminate property taxes in the state with Ohio Statehouse News Bureau Chief Karen Kasler. Then, we'll learn about how rising property taxes are impacting a distinct group of landowners — farmers. Ideastream's Richard Cunningham shares how farmers are faring in today's economic landscape, and we'll hear from a longtime farmer and head of the Ohio Farm Bureau, Bill Patterson. Finally, we'll learn how reform or abolishment of property taxes could be devastating to the vast public services that rely on this revenue to fund their operations, including parks and libraries. We'll be joined by Ideastream Public Media's Kabir Bhatia and Zaria Johnson for this part of the conversation. Guests: - Karen Kasler, Bureau Chief, Ideastream Statehouse News Bureau - Richard Cunningham, Engaged Journalism Reporter, Ideastream Public Media - Bill Patterson, Co-owner, Patterson Farms & President, Ohio Farm Bureau - Kabir Bhatia, Senior Arts and Culture Reporter, Ideastream Public Media - Zaria Johnson, Environmental Reporter, Ideastream Public Media
The new imAGine Ag exhibit is debuting at the 2026 Ohio State Fair, giving fairgoers an immersive, hands-on look at modern agriculture. Marlene Eick, senior director of leadership development for Ohio Farm Bureau, joins the podcast to share how the project came together, what visitors can expect and why the experience is an important investment in agricultural literacy.
Soil health continues to be an important conversation in agriculture as farmers look for ways to improve their operations, protect their resources, and build long-term sustainability. On this Ohio Ag Net Podcast, powered by Ohio Corn and Wheat, learn about the Farmers for Soil Health program and the opportunities it is providing for growers who want to take the next step in conservation. Plus, bringing some certainty back into agriculture is something that could happen if some policies are passed in Washington. With items like the Farm Bill, year-round E15 and fertilizer availability and prices on the cusp of becoming law, farm groups are pushing hard to get Congress to move. Get an update from Ohio Farm Bureau.
As Ohio prepares for the upcoming gubernatorial race, Ohio Farm Bureau is committed to helping our members stay informed on candidates and their platforms on Ohio agriculture and rural communities. On this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Dr. Amy Acton to discuss her potential priorities for Ohio, including agriculture, economic development, workforce development and the realities facing farm families. This episode was recorded on 06/26/2026.
Episode 75 of the podcast finds the Field Leader Roadshow is in Van Wert County at Heffelfinger Farms. Dusty visits with Mike and Kendra about their family operation dating back to 1852. Mike and his brother Kevin are the 5th generation, and Mike and Kendra's sons, Logan and Luke will be the 6th generation on the family farm. Mike has served on the Ohio Soybean Association board and currently serves on the Ohio Soybean Council Board. He and Kendra are also extremely active with Ohio Farm Bureau, and in numerous school and community organizations. They share about their farm, some of the changes in agriculture in Van Wert County over the years, and also take a look to the future and things that are important for their operation.
Ohio agriculture will take center stage at this year's Ohio State Fair with the new Imagine AG exhibit, designed to help fairgoers better understand where their food comes from and the many industries connected to farming. On this Ohio Ag Net Podcast, powered by Ohio Corn and Wheat, Ohio Farm Bureau's Marlene Eick talks about the vision behind the new building, the interactive experiences inside, and the message organizers hope visitors take home from this year's fair. Plus, selling land is much different than selling a traditional home, requiring the right marketing strategy, the right buyers, and an approach tailored to that specific property. Kevin Miller with Oak Ridge Realty and Auction Company shares what landowners should know before putting their property on the market.
As Nationwide celebrates 100 years, we sit down with CEO Kirt Walker to talk about the company's century-long history, its partnership with Ohio Farm Bureau and how the organization continues to evolve while staying grounded in the people and communities it serves.
A recent meteorite in northeast Ohio has sparked fascination and a few legal questions. If a meteorite lands on private property, who owns it? Can people search for fragments on someone else's land? And what should landowners know about trespassing? On this Legal with Leah, Leah Curtis, associate general counsel for Ohio Farm Bureau discusses these questions and what this rare event can teach us about property rights.
As Ohio prepares for the upcoming gubernatorial primary, Ohio Farm Bureau is committed to helping our members stay informed on candidates and their platforms on Ohio agriculture and rural communities. On this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Vivek Ramaswamy to discuss his potential priorities for Ohio, including agriculture, economic development, workforce development and the realities facing farm families. (This episode was recorded on 03/18/2026) As a bipartisan organization, Ohio Farm Bureau extended an open invitation to all leading gubernatorial candidates to share their perspectives on agriculture, and we look forward to future conversations.
In this episode, Arica Hamilton, Organization Director of The Ohio Farm Bureau who focuses on Union, Madison, Delaware and Franklin Counties, and Lauren Prettyman-Brown, President of The Franklin County Farm Bureau Board of Trustees and Director of Communications and Member Experiences for The Ohio Agribusiness Association provide a highly engaging overview of Farm Bureau activities in these Central Ohio counties. Specific topics covered include:*Membership types & benefits*Annual Membership Meetings in Union, Delaware,Franklin and Madison Counties*Core program priorities including Advocacy,Education and community, Youth *Special Community Events including Charity"Benefit in the Barn" in Union and Delaware Counties. "ATaste of Franklin County"*Engagement in County Fairs*The Young Ag Program*Franklin County Farm Bureau Board of Trustees& their collaboration*Farm Bureau Presidents Annual Trip toWashington D.C.This is an excellent primer on the operation of the Farm Bureau in Union, Delaware, Franklin and Madison Counties that you will want to catch on Spotify and other platforms!
Last week, Ohio Farm Bureau leaders traveled to Washington, D.C. for the 80th County Presidents' Trip. On this Ohio Ag Net Podcast, powered by Ohio Corn and Wheat, Ty Higgins, who was embedded with the group, talked with OFBF President Bill Patterson about the importance of being on lawmakers' turf and shared some of the issues that were top of mind for attendees. Plus, Ohio Corn and Wheat's director of communication, Gerry Puckett joins Ty to preview their trip to the Nation's Capital to talk about the needed passage of year-round E15, among other vital topics to Ohio agriculture. Then, Ohio Soybean Association President Bennett Musselman visits with Dusty Sonnenberg about what is on his organization's agenda at the state and federal levels.
Water quality has long been a priority for Ohio Farm Bureau, and through the work of farmers and agricultural partners, we are seeing measurable progress in Ohio's water resources. Jay Martin, Ph.D., professor for Ohio State CFAES, and Jordan Hoewischer, Ohio Farm Bureau director of water quality and research, join the podcast to break down the recent research and advocacy efforts helping drive that progress.
Plans for data centers continue to pop up around Ohio, and so do the questions that come with them. Leah Curtis, associate general counsel for Ohio Farm Bureau, joins this Legal with Leah to talk about what these centers mean for local communities and how to stay engaged in the development process.
Brad Bales, senior director of state and national policy joins the podcast to recap how Ohio Farm Bureau advocated for member-set policies at American Farm Bureau's 2026 Annual Meeting of Voting Delegates.
Leasing portions of your land can be very beneficial, but signing that contract is not something you should take lightly. On this Ohio Ag Net Podcast, powered by Ohio Corn and Wheat, Ohio Farm Bureau's Director of Energy Development, Dale Arnold, visits with Dusty Sonnenberg about the dos and don'ts through the process of signing a lease. Plus, if you haven't been at the corner of Lane Avenue and Kenny Road in a while, you might not recognize that part of Ohio State's campus, as major transformations have been happening at Waterman. Ty Higgins talks with OSU's College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Dean, Cathann Kress, about the "Bring the Cows Home…and So Much More" campaign designed to keep the positive momentum going.
Ohio Farm Bureau made a strong showing at the 107th American Farm Bureau Convention, with nine counties featured in the County Activities of Excellence Showcase and three members competing in Young Farmer and Rancher events. On this episode, the competitors discuss their respective contests, how they prepared and what this national experience means to them.
Biofuels have always sat at the intersection of agriculture, energy, and innovation. For our farmers, they represent not just a market opportunity, but a stabilizing force, adding value to crops like corn and soybeans, creating new demand streams, and supporting rural economies with local processing, transportation, and jobs. They help keep dollars circulating close to home. A recent event in northwest Ohio explored the future of biofuels. The Ohio Farm Bureau sponsored Biofuels Summit featured researchers, retailers and policy makers and you will hear from some of them this week, including Dr. Gabe Lade with Ohio State, Jeff Erb from the Ohio Energy and Convenience Association and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur. They are all on the way here on the Ohio Ag Net Podcast.
Ohio Farm Bureau recently held its 107th Annual Meeting. Adam Sharp, executive vice president, joins the podcast to share key highlights and a look ahead to 2026. We also hear from Laramie Sandquist, associate vice president of Risk Management for Nationwide Agribusiness with tips on staying safe on the road during the holiday season.
In this week's Ohio Ag Net podcast, Dale Minyo and Ty Higgins visit with leaders of two Ohio agriculture organizations. Ty talks with Bill Patterson, president of Ohio Farm Bureau, about how the Ohio Farm Bureau's recent annual meeting was a great opportunity to celebrate the successes of 2025, while working on policies to take on the challenges that lie ahead in 2026 and beyond. Later in the episode, Dale meets with the new president of Ohio Corn and Wheat, Eric Tipton, about his path to leadership and the goals his association has as he begins his new role.
Adele Flynn, treasurer of Ohio Farm Bureau, joins the podcast to discuss her recent trip to the White House and the conversations had on long-term relief to farm country. Dr. Ian Sheldon of The Ohio State University also provides an update on trade and tariffs.
When you're planning this winter, health care costs should be just as important as your fertilizer or other input costs. With the farm economy in the state it's in and healthcare prices only going up without stability, there need to be a solution. That's why we're thankful for our friends at teh Ohio Farm Bureau who've established health care solutions to fit you and your family's needs. In this episode of Kernels, Tadd Nicholson talks with Trevor Kirkpatrick, Director of Health Services at OFB, to talk about the options and get some answers. Members of the Ohio Farm Bureau can apply today to more affordable health care options at https://ofbf.org/hcs/ Links: Join the Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association: https://ohiocornandwheat.org/about-us/growers-association/ Learn more about the Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans: https://ofbf.org/hcs/ About Ohio Corn & Wheat Ohio Corn & Wheat works to create opportunities for long-term Ohio corn and small grain grower profitability. It is a strategic alliance of two checkoffs and one membership-based organization. The Ohio Corn Checkoff and Ohio Small Grains Checkoff work to develop and expand markets, fund research and provide education about corn and wheat, respectively. The Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association is a membership organization advocating for supportive public policy on behalf of its farmer members. For more information, please visit www.ohiocornandwheat.org.
This week on the Ohio Ag Net Podcast, Ty Higgins catches up with Trevor Kirkpatrick of the Ohio Farm Bureau to discuss the launch of the new Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans, now open for enrollment, offering more affordable health coverage options for Ohio's farm families and small businesses. Dusty Sonnenberg talks with Julia Brown of the Ohio Soybean Council about the inaugural Ohio Soy Immersion Experience, a new program designed to give farmers an inside look at how the soybean checkoff works to grow demand and build value. Dale Minyo wraps things up with a visit to Wilmington College to learn about the school's new Agriscience Complex and how the facility will expand hands-on learning opportunities for the next generation of agricultural leaders with Dr. Chad McKay.
The countdown is on for Ohio Farm Bureau's 2026 Winter Leadership Experience! Get the inside scoop on next year's conference as we hear from keynote speaker Coach Kiah, and chairs of the Young Agricultural Professionals Committee, John and Kacy Hummel.
In this episode of "AgCredit Said It," host Libby Wixtead kicks off season five by focusing on the diversification of agricultural operations. The guest for this episode is Melinda Witten, President and CEO of the Ohio Agribusiness Association (OABA). Melinda shares her journey to becoming CEO, emphasizing her lifelong connection to agriculture and her previous experience with the Ohio Farm Bureau. The discussion highlights OABA's mission to enhance the business environment for Ohio agribusinesses through advocacy, education, and fostering a strong industry network. Melinda elaborates on OABA's diverse membership and the importance of communication, policy updates, and professional development, particularly through programs like "Launch," which aims to develop emerging leaders in the industry. Show Notes: https://www.agcredit.net/news/ep-95-cultivating-success-insights-ohio-agribusiness-associations-leader Connect with AgCredit on Facebook, X, and Instagram Share questions and topic ideas with us:Email podcast@agcredit.net
On this episode of the podcast, we explore how recruiting and empowering young leaders is a priority at Ohio Farm Bureau. We chat with a member of the Young Ag Professionals Committee about the upcoming Winter Leadership Experience and sit down with Executive Vice President Adam Sharp to discuss a recent trip to Washington, D.C., for YAP members and the current AgriPOWER class.
There is a lot of uncertainty for Ohio farm families right now. Margins are thin, markets and the weather are unpredictable, and input costs keep climbing. On this episode of the Ohio Farm Bureau podcast, we hear from Ohio State's beef cattle and livestock marketing field specialist on current market trends, learn about Nationwide's renewed focus on protecting cattle operations and talk with American Farm Bureau's communications manager about keeping the story of farmers front and center.
For the past seven years, this podcast and various communications of Ohio Farm Bureau has had a steady voice guiding conversations, asking the important questions and connecting members to the general public. That voice belongs to Ty Higgins, former senior director of communications and media relations at Ohio Farm Bureau and incoming general manager of Ohio Ag Net and Ohio's Country Journal. He joins us to look back on his tenure, share some fun memories and give some insight to where he's headed next.
A recently passed state law allows the Ohio Farm Bureau to offer health coverage outside of traditional insurance regulations.
In recent years, there has been a new addition to our airspace. And while some may assume it's a bird or a plane, it may actually be a drone flying overhead. These unmanned aerial vehicles and systems can be a great instrument but can also create a nuisance. Leah Curtis, Associate General Counsel for the Ohio Farm Bureau gives an update on the latest policies surrounding drones.
Ty Higgins of the Ohio Farm Bureau gives the latest growing conditions and discusses how the BBB is helping farmers
The second annual Wyandot County Premier Farmer Field Day, held in early August, featured planter demonstrations from local dealers, precision agriculture, local agribusinesses and details about valuable resources for farm families involved with Ohio Farm Bureau. Get a recap of this Ohio Farm Bureau Podcast Special.
Farm Credit Mid-America's Growing Forward™ program for young, beginning and small farmers provides this important segment of customers with access to sound and constructive credit through individualized programs and products. Learn more about it on this Ohio Farm Bureau Podcast. Plus, among a myriad of items included in the new state budget for Ohio, there are changes to pesticide licensing laws that Ohio Farm Bureau considers overly burdensome when it comes to the direct impact of Ohio agriculture. Get the details from Ohio Farm Bureau's Leah Curtis.
Among a myriad of items included in the new state budget for Ohio, there are changes to pesticide licensing laws that Ohio Farm Bureau considers overly burdensome when it comes to the direct impact of Ohio agriculture. In this Legal with Leah, Ohio Farm Bureau Associate General Counsel, Leah Curtis discussed these changes and what farmers need to know as they go into effect. ODA Private Applicator Page: https://agri.ohio.gov/divisions/plant-health/pesticides/private
After months of grassroots policy work by Ohio Farm Bureau members and countless trips to the Statehouse by the organization's members and state staff, Ohio agriculture faired well in the 2025-2026 state budget. Find out what is in (and not in) the over 3,000 page, $60 billion budget that will have implications, both good and not-so-good, for farmers and agribusiness professionals in this Ohio Farm Bureau Podcast Special, as host Ty Higgins chats with OFBF's Director of State Policy, Evan Callicoat.
Ty Higgins from the Ohio Farm Bureau gives us a crop update and discusses the Farm Bill
The 2025 County Fair season is almost underway and that means livestock shows, deep fried food and plenty of harness racing action. Get an update on what to expect at the county fair tracks this year from the Ohio Harness Horsemen's Association. Plus, there are quite a few items that Ohio Farm Bureau is keeping an eye on when it comes to policies being developed in Washington. On this Ohio Farm Bureau Podcast, find out about legislation in D.C. that will have a direct impact on farmers across Ohio.
In a recent survey conducted by Nationwide, it was revealed that a staggering 65% of farmers do not have a plan to manage or mitigate risks, including severe weather. Learn about the growing complexities of farming risks, as well as how to assess your farm's storm preparedness on this Ohio Farm Bureau Podcast. Plus, there is a lot happening on the policy front at the Ohio Statehouse that impact agriculture. Get an update from Ohio Farm Bureau's policy team.
In this powerful and refreshing episode, Mark Jewell sits down with longtime friend and leadership expert Marlene Eick, Senior Director of Leadership Development at the Ohio Farm Bureau. Together, they explore what it really takes to build strong, healthy teams—and why intentional leadership starts with creating space for honest conversations, personal growth, and shared ownership.From building culture with a brand-new team to navigating transition seasons, Marlene shares real-world wisdom about leadership challenges, emotional intelligence at work, and how leaders can balance being human without becoming everyone's therapist. This conversation goes deep into practical leadership—and also offers fresh encouragement for anyone feeling the weight of leadership today.Whether you're leading a team of 2 or 200, this episode is packed with personal insight, practical takeaways, and honest reflection that every agribusiness leader needs to hear.Key Takeaways:
The transfer of assets is often talked about when it comes to creating a succession plan, but the trasfer of knowledge is equally as important. Get experts tips on successful succession plans and the timing for moving assets to the next generation from Wright and Moore on this Ohio Farm Bureau Podcast. Plus, we talk a lot about CAUV as a farmland preservation tool, but there are some other tools in the law that landowners can consider. Learn about Ag Districts from Ohio Farm Bureau's legal expert.
In this episode of AgCredit Said It, we are live from the Emerge Experience with special guest Ty Higgins from Ohio Farm Bureau. Join us as we delve into the critical issues facing farmers today, from financial stress and mental health to the latest in agricultural policy. Ty shares his expertise on the importance of unified messaging, the role of Farm Bureau in supporting Ohio's diverse agricultural community, and the collaborative efforts to address farm stress through the Ohio Agriculture Mental Health Alliance. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or new to the industry, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of modern farming. Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion that goes beyond the balance sheet to the heart of farm life. Show Notes: Ep. 82 From Farm Stress to Policy Success with Ty Higgins | AgCredit Connect with AgCredit on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share questions and topic ideas with us: Email podcast@agcredit.net
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's recent decision to ban Red No. 3 may leave some food manufacturers searching for safer alternatives. On this Ohio Farm Bureau Podcast, learn about groundbreaking research from The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) offers a promising solution. Plus, if you are looking for a unique camp experiece for your kids this summer, get the details of why Ohio Farm Bureau's ExploreAg camps might be the perfect fit.
In this thought-provoking episode of the Ohio Ag Net Podcast, host Matt Reese is joined by Ty Higgins of Ohio Farm Bureau and Melanie Wilt of Shift•ology Communication and Clark County Commissioner. Together, they dive into the concept of echo chambers—what they are, how they affect us, and the implications for agriculture, media, and beyond. From a tragic community crisis in Springfield to Chihuahua anecdotes and family holiday debates, the trio explores how differing perspectives shape our understanding of the world. They also offer insights on how agriculture can better communicate across divides in an era dominated by curated information and social media algorithms. It's a challenging yet constructive conversation about the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones.
On the Legal with Leah Podcast, CAUV is often discussed as a farmland preservation tool, but there are some other tools in the law that landowners can consider. Ohio Farm Bureau's Associate General Counsel Leah Curtis shared what benefits ag districts can have for landowners.
With a nearly 30% decline in net farm income over the past 2 years, the agriculture sector continues to face a volatile economy. Add to that the stresses of an outdated farm bill, trade disputes and the questionable outlook for estate tax laws and the uncertainties abound for farmers. Meanwhile, development pressures from many different sources threaten the availability of farmland and the Buckeye State's rich farming heritage. The 2025 Ohio Agriculture and Rural Communities Action Plan provides a blueprint for policymakers and Ohio Farm Bureau members to bolster Ohio's agriculture industry and our rural communities. Find out what's in the plan on this Ohio Farm Bureau Podcast and get an update from Nationwide about the possible sunsetting on important tax laws that could directly impact Ohio's farm families. Nationwide and its representatives do not give legal or tax advice. An attorney or tax advisor should be consulted for answers to specific questions.
On this Legal with Leah, Leah Curtis, Associate General Counsel for Ohio Farm Bureau is back yet again, to talk about the Corporate Transparency Act as a new deadline to file has been set.
Tuesday on AOA, powered by Cenex Ruby Fieldmaster, we start the show with some thoughts on the pullback in grain markets with Don Roose of U.S. Commodities. In Segment Two, we get a final preview of Commodity Classic with co-chair Deb Gangwish of Nebraska. Next up in Segment Three, we discuss priorities of the Ohio Farm Bureau in 2025 with their president, Bill Patterson. Then we close the show in Segment Four learning about N-FINITY, a brand new product from Nutrien Ag Solutions available in 2025. Ron Calhoun joins us from Nutrien to tell us more.
This week, the Ohio Ag Net Podcast brings you coverage from Ohio Farm Bureau's Ag Day at the Capital, where Matt Reese catches up with Ohio Farm Bureau Trustee Vince Untied of Muskingum County and Evan Callicoat, OFBF Director of State Policy. More insights from the event come from Whitney Bowers, OFBF Director of State Policy and Grassroots Engagement. Also featured, Dale Minyo talks with Erica Hitzhusen of GrowNextGen SECO and Kristen Ward of Farm Credit Mid-America on the importance of risk management. Plus, Joel Penhorwood hears from key voices at the signing of the new Airable Research Lab at Shawnee State University, a significant step in Ohio's agricultural innovation.
In this week's episode of the Ohio Ag Net Podcast, hosts Matt and Dusty are joined by Dee Jepsen from Ohio State's College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, and Ty Higgins of the Ohio Farm Bureau, to discuss the Ohio Agricultural Mental Health Alliance's first farm stress survey results. The conversation dives into the survey's insights and what they mean for Ohio farmers' mental health and resilience. Also in this episode: Dale talks with Shane Kellogg about the role of biodiesel and its benefits to Ohio agriculture. Matt chats with Devin Dye of Dye Real Estate and Land Co. for a look into farmland price trends and the market factors at play. Matt catches up with Garth Ruff from OSU Extension to cover alternative feed options for livestock this winter after the challenging growing season. Tune in for these stories and more in this week's Ohio Ag Net Podcast!