Field Good Life

In this episode of Field Good Life, Jennifer hosts Ryan Bane and Mandy Young from Tailgate Time, a nonprofit organization focused on addressing mental health issues within the agricultural community. They discuss the intersection of agriculture and mental health, the challenges farmers face, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for mental health discussions. The conversation emphasizes the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health, the unique challenges faced by farmers, and the importance of seeking help. Tailgate Time aims to provide accessible mental health resources and support to farmers, encouraging them to take a load off...

In this episode of the Field Good Life podcast, Jennifer reflects on the growth and success of the podcast throughout 2025, expressing gratitude to guests and listeners. She discusses the top five most listened to episodes, highlighting key themes such as mental health in agriculture, sustainability, and the importance of community support. Jennifer also shares insights from the recent Rice Outlook Conference and the announcement of a significant farmer aid package. As she looks ahead to 2026, she emphasizes the importance of continued advocacy and connection within the agricultural community.

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

www.sorghumgrowers.com – Association link

www.sorghumcheckoff.com – The Checkoff

Instagram: check out @simplysorghum

COB – co-founded by Novak Djokovic (world’...

In this episode of Feel Good Life, Jennifer James shares her insights and experiences from over 30 years in farming. She discusses the surprises and joys of her work, her reading habits, and the importance of family legacy in agriculture. Jennifer reflects on the lessons learned from the land, the cyclical nature of farming, and the resilience of the farming community. She emphasizes the significance of finding joy in everyday moments and maintaining hope for the future.

In this episode of Feel Good Life, host Jennifer James speaks with Michael Klein, Vice President of Communications and Strategic Development at USA Rice. They discuss Michael's journey in the rice industry, the structure and impact of USA Rice, and the importance of collaboration within the rice community. The conversation also covers the upcoming Rice Outlook Conference, mental health initiatives in agriculture, and the significance of storytelling in the industry. Michael shares insights on the conference's keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and the role of technology in modern agriculture, emphasizing the need to connect consumers with the origins of their...

In this episode of Field Good Life, host Jennifer James speaks with Branon Thiesse about the upcoming Heart of the Farmer event aimed at supporting local farmers facing significant challenges. They discuss the importance of community involvement, mental health resources, and the economic impact of farming on the local economy. The event will provide health screenings and opportunities for sponsorship, emphasizing the need for collective support in the agricultural community.

Register here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=T5VNF15Yw0CuHAGtpfJnI5PXTpRIE_1Cg810ur-R9-NUOTBDQzAwRjI1RjJZTExDQVhSOFVNUUNVTy4u&route=shorturl

Or visit them...

In this episode, Jennifer interviews Blake Swindle, the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of AgHeritage Farm Credit Services. They discuss the current state of the farm economy, particularly focusing on row crop farmers and the challenges they face as they approach the 2026 lending season. Blake shares insights on the history of the Farm Credit system, the importance of financial planning, marketing strategies, and the mental health challenges within the agricultural community. The conversation also touches on lobbying efforts for farmers, navigating financial challenges, and the future outlook for equipment purchases.

Bethany Gremel, Director of Brand and Company Culture at Beck's Hybrids, shares her journey from a farm girl in Indiana to a pivotal role in one of the largest family-owned seed companies in the U.S.

Discover how Beck's commitment to honoring God, serving others, and helping farmers succeed has shaped their 89-year legacy and continues to drive innovation and growth in agriculture.

Learn more about Beck's: www.beckshybrids.com

In this episode, I'm catching up with two of my soil sisters from our peer group. Stacie Jack Koger and Kassi Tom Rowland join me to talk shop — how we met, built our own all-female ag peer group, what we learn from each other, and the mental health support our group has given to each member. Come walk the turn rows with us as we share our stories and encourage you to find like-minded peers to support your farm family.

Here are ways you can connect with them:

Silent Shade Planting Company: sspc.ag

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In this episode, Jennifer James discusses her recent keynote speech at the University of Arkansas Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center Field Day in Arkansas, focusing on the theme of resilience in rice farming. She shares personal anecdotes about her journey back to agriculture, the challenges faced by farmers today, and the importance of community support. Jennifer emphasizes the need for farmers to share their stories authentically, especially in light of the disconnect between urban and rural communities. She also reflects on her experience testifying before Congress about the realities of farming and the importance of mental health in...

In this episode, Jennifer interviews Tim Walker, CEO of Horizon Ag, discussing his journey from dairy farming to leading a rice company. They explore the challenges facing the rice industry, including competition from imports and the importance of quality. Tim shares insights on the future of Horizon Ag, the significance of leadership in agriculture, and the need for innovation in rice breeding.

In this episode, we delve into the intricate relationship between weather patterns, water management, and rice production in California. Discover how shifting weather patterns and water scarcity are reshaping the landscape for rice farmers. Join us as we explore innovative solutions and hear from one California rice farmer on the front lines of sustainable agriculture. Tune in to understand the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for California's rice industry.

In this episode of Field Good Life, host Jennifer James interviews Dr. Hunter Biram from the University of Arkansas, discussing his background in agricultural economics and risk management. They explore the impact of weather on crop yields, market trends, and the importance of communication in agriculture. Dr. Biram shares insights on crop insurance, the current state of agricultural policy, and the resilience of farmers in facing challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of collaboration and resources available for farmers in the Southeast.

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Persistence is second nature to farmers—but what happens when the very people who feed us are forgotten in conversations about the future? In this episode, I reflect on how agriculture is too often left out of workforce and economic planning, even in farm towns. Joined by Cat Frans, we explore the power of storytelling, the role of marketing in agriculture, and why supporting American-grown food matters now more than ever.

What does the future of rice farming look like? In this episode of Field Good Life, I sit down with Brian Ottis, Director of Marketing and Product Management with RiceTec, Inc, to talk all things hybrid rice, sustainability, and why milling quality matters more than ever. We dig into methane emissions, research-driven innovation, and the balancing act between yield and quality. From installing levee gates as a kid to an influential member of the rice industry today, Brian has great insight into what really goes into growing your favorite grain. If you are curious about all it takes to...

In this episode, Jennifer chats with Whitney Shannon Haigwood of Delta Farm Press about her non-traditional path into agricultural journalism and the role storytelling plays in bridging the gap between farmers and the public. They explore the economic realities of agriculture, the need for relatable, timely communication, and how digital platforms are reshaping the way farm news is shared. Whitney also shares advice for young women pursuing careers in ag and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the stories she's most excited to tell next.

In this episode, Jennifer James shares her experiences from a busy business trip to Japan in April 2025, focusing on the specialty soybean industry and cultural insights. She discusses the unique aspects of Japanese life, including their food, transportation, and cleanliness practices, while also addressing the challenges faced in agriculture due to weather conditions.

In this episode of Feel Good Life, host Jennifer James engages with Kevin McGilton and Ben Noble from Riceland Foods, discussing the significance of farmer-owned cooperatives in the rice industry. They explore the historical context of Riceland, its role in processing and marketing rice and soybeans, and the importance of government affairs in advocating for agricultural policies. The conversation also addresses the challenges of milling quality, economic assistance for farmers, and the future of the farm bill, emphasizing the need for a robust safety net to support farmers in difficult times.

In this episode of Field Good Life, Jennifer and Allyson Bise discuss the evolving landscape of agricultural risk and credit options available to farmers. They explore Allyson's journey into agriculture, her career experiences, and the importance of financial services like Nutrien Financial. The conversation highlights the impact of rising interest rates on credit utilization, the necessity of communication between growers and lenders, and the challenges farmers face in the current economic climate. They also touch on strategies for managing farm expenses and the significance of maintaining financial privacy.

In this episode of the Feel Good Life podcast, Jennifer interviews her father Marvin Hare, a seasoned farmer with nearly 60 years of experience. They discuss the challenges faced in the agricultural industry, particularly drawing parallels between the economic climate of the early 80s and the anticipated conditions of 2025. Marvin shares insights on how he adapted his farming practices, including the introduction of the Natto soybean, to stay afloat during tough times. The conversation also highlights the importance of collaboration, technological advancements, and the evolving nature of farming in response to market demands.

This conversation delves into the critical intersection of mental health and farming, highlighting the unique challenges faced by farmers, including financial stress, family dynamics, and the stigma surrounding mental health. The discussion emphasizes the importance of communication within families, the need for resources, and the alarming suicide rates in the agricultural community. Personal stories and insights from Haley Mills provide a deeper understanding of these issues and encourage proactive approaches to mental health support.

In this episode, Jennifer James shares her journey as a farmer and advocate for the rice industry, detailing her experience testifying before the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture. She discusses the preparation involved, the emotional weight of her testimony, and the importance of the Farm Bill in supporting farmers. Jennifer emphasizes the need for farmers to share their stories and engage in advocacy to ensure their voices are heard in policy development.

Written testimony on record with the Senate. Link to it here

Links to articles about my testimony here

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In this episode of the Field Good Life podcast, Jennifer James shares her journey as a fourth-generation farmer in Northeast Arkansas. She discusses her unique perspective on agriculture, the importance of sustainability, and the challenges faced by commodity farmers. Jennifer emphasizes the need for advocacy in the farming community and the significance of maintaining family farms for future generations. She also introduces her podcast as a platform to share stories and insights from the agricultural world, particularly from a female perspective.