Conversation and interview with farmers and hunters
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October 20, 2026Episode 54245 min
542 Ryan Cook Growing Giants
In this episode, Ryan Cook from West Virginia shares his passion for growing giant pumpkins, shark tooth hunting, and his efforts to help veterans through farming. Discover the secrets behind record-breaking pumpkins, the parallels between shark tooth hunting and gardening, and Ryan's vision for a TV show about giant growing. Key topics Ryan's background and West Virginia roots Details of the giant pumpkin growing process and record attempts The community and drama surrounding giant pumpkin growing Parallel between shark tooth hunting and gardening Ryan's efforts to help veterans through farming and outdoor activities Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ryan and his West Virginia roots 01:05 Ryan's background and local community 02:38 The Thunderstruck Ag Razor's Edge concaves 04:01 Ryan's personality and hobbies beyond farming 06:55 The drama in the giant pumpkin community 09:51 The Guinness World Record controversy 11:43 Growing multiple giant vegetables and state records 14:01 The future of giant pumpkin records and genetics 19:08 Ryan's personal journey and veteran healing 22:38 Shark tooth hunting and fossil discoveries 32:36 The importance of outdoor hobbies for mental health 37:19 The potential of a TV show about giant growing 45:00 Closing remarks and where to find Ryan
October 13, 2026Episode 54150 min
541 Alex Russell Saluki Proud
Alex Russell on FFA, communication, and finding a place in agriculture Rob Sharkey talks with Alex Russell, the U. S. soybean seed care product lead for Syngenta, about how rodeo, homeschooling, FFA, and leadership training shaped her career in agriculture. Alex shares how she went from planning for nursing school to building a career in crop protection, training, and public speaking—and why communication, curiosity, and grit matter as much as technical knowledge. Alex also shares her views on women in agriculture, the value of being "kind, not nice," and why the ag industry needs people to tell the story of farming honestly. Along the way, she and Rob discuss career growth, imposter syndrome, and how to keep your personality while staying professional. Growing up in Fayette County, Illinois, and how rodeo and homeschooling influenced her path How FFA helped Alex find her direction in agriculture and leadership Studying ag business economics and weed science at SIU How internships and graduate school shaped her career Why effective communication means meeting people where they are Alex's "kind, not nice" approach to honest, constructive feedback Women's experiences in agriculture and staying confident in the room Building a career without coming from a large farming operation or an ag-industry family Fear of failure, fear of judgment, and advocating for yourself How the definition of agriculture is expanding for the next generation Creating genuine connections as a speaker Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and meeting Alex Russell 03:41 – Sponsor mention and conversation about farm trials 06:26 – Rodeo roots and learning responsibility through horses 09:46 – Moving from homeschooling to public school 11:11 – FFA involvement and leadership 14:01 – SIU, the Saluki identity, and discovering weed science 15:25 – Internships, graduate school, and building an ag career 17:15 – Public speaking and Alex's experience at SIU Women's Weekend 19:01 – Training, development, and "stealing with pride" 20:51 – Communication as a selfless act 22:12 – What "kind, not nice" means 24:01 – Being a woman in agriculture 25:29 – Staying professional without losing your personality 27:45 – Building a career without being born into agriculture 30:34 – Fear of failure, fear of judgment, and The Twin Thieves 31:32 – Why people may not be thinking about you as much as you think 33:56 – Speaking and working with agriculture groups 34:53 – Does agriculture care about feeding people? 36:43 – Changing paths into agriculture 38:30 – How younger generations are broadening the definition of ag 39:55 – Curiosity, generational differences, and changing minds 41:21 – Imposter syndrome and advocating for yourself 43:09 – Leadership training and learning from discomfort 44:33 – Alex's passion for speaking and connecting with audiences 46:20 – Vulnerability and creating a genuine audience connection 48:35 – Where to find Alex online and closing remarks
October 6, 2026Episode 54042 min
540 SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler
In this episode, we explore the journey of Kelly Leffler from rural Illinois to becoming the US Small Business Administration administrator, discussing her insights on agriculture, deregulation, and supporting small businesses and farmers. key topics Kelly Leffler's background and rural upbringing Impact of deregulation on small businesses and farmers The role of the SBA in supporting manufacturing and defense supply chains Policy perspectives on environmental regulation and green initiatives The importance of small businesses in American economic strength Leadership and decision-making in government and politics Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Kelly Leffler's background 02:00 Growing up in rural Illinois and family roots 03:50 Career journey and transition from corporate America to public service 09:01 Discussion on diesel exhaust fluid regulations 11:57 Deregulation efforts and support for small businesses 12:56 Political landscape and policy challenges for farmers 20:06 President Trump's support for agriculture and rural America 22:01 The role of the SBA and small business support programs 26:14 Estate tax and passing down farms 28:13 Involvement in sports and leadership experiences 30:10 Foreign ownership and regulatory standards 33:00 Political divides and the importance of election participation 34:51 Advice for young entrepreneurs and embracing failure 36:46 The entrepreneurial spirit and opportunities in America 39:09 Message to farmers and small business owners 40:01 Closing remarks and appreciation for listeners
September 29, 2026Episode 53953 min
539 Barry and Michelle Aycock Love Hardees
In this episode, Rob Sharkey interviews Barry and Michelle Acoke from Parma, Missouri, exploring their diverse ventures in agriculture, business, and community service. They share insights on farming, entrepreneurship, faith, and the importance of relationships in success. key topics The Acoke family's farming background and diversification into cotton, rice, and other crops Barry's journey from cotton consultant to international distributor and business owner The role of faith and community service in their business philosophy Challenges and rewards of managing nursing homes and restaurants The importance of relationships and good leadership in rural businesses Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Barry and Michelle Acoke 01:56 The Acoke family's farming roots and diversification 05:11 Barry's career in cotton consulting and international work 10:12 The impact of faith and community service 14:57 Managing multiple business ventures: nursing homes and restaurants 20:00 The importance of relationships and leadership in rural business 25:10 Reflections on success, failure, and failing forward 29:50 Advice for entrepreneurs and young farmers 35:06 The Acoke family's future plans and legacy
September 22, 2026Episode 53851 min
538 Neil Koch Dig Drive DIY
Rob Sharkey talks with Neil Koch of Harlan, Indiana, the creator behind Dig Drive DIY, about how a hobby channel grew into a full-time job. Neil explains the mix of heavy equipment work, family life, and practical projects that shaped his videos, plus the backstory behind his backyard pond, his agronomy career, and the community that supports him. We discuss how Neil builds videos around real projects, why storytelling matters more than just filming work, and what it took to leave a stable job to pursue YouTube full time. The conversation also covers equipment, sponsorships, and the patience required to grow an audience the right way. Key topics Neil shares how Dig Drive DIY started with casual uploads, then grew after a bulldozer-loading video unexpectedly took off. He explains the channel name and its three pillars: digging projects, driving equipment, and DIY work. Neil walks through the backyard pond project that helped his channel break out, including the concrete walkway, pier, and well that keeps it filled. He explains why the pond was designed to be low-maintenance, mowable, and visually interesting on camera. We discuss how Neil's background as a heavy-equipment operator shaped both his skills and his comfort with large projects. Neil shares the leap from agronomist to full-time YouTuber, including the gradual step down from five days a week to three before leaving altogether. He talks about the importance of a supportive spouse, family, and local community when making a risky career change. Neil describes how his video style blends education and entertainment, and why he tries to make each project feel like a story with a beginning, middle, and end. We discuss sponsorships, Patreon, and how income from YouTube typically grows only after an audience is already established. Neil offers advice to younger creators: be patient, accept criticism, build thick skin, and do not expect quick money. Timestamps 00:00 — Rob introduces Neil Koch and Dig Drive DIY 00:35 — Harlan, Indiana, and life near the Ohio border 01:05 — Brandt sponsorship and a funny equipment-sizing conversation 04:53 — How Neil describes the Dig Drive DIY channel 05:21 — The bulldozer-loading video that helped the channel take off 06:21 — Why the channel is called Dig Drive DIY 07:40 — Firewood, driveway work, and the pond video that changed everything 08:39 — Why Neil built a backyard pond 09:09 — Concrete edging, a pier, and designing for easy maintenance 10:08 — How the pond is filled with a well instead of runoff 11:36 — Keeping the pond full and fresh with a switch system 13:24 — The emotional side of finishing a big project 14:51 — Using projects as an excuse to keep building 15:47 — An old pocket knife passed down from childhood 17:39 — Leaving his agronomy job to do YouTube full time 18:37 — The fear of quitting a stable job for creator work 20:29 — Neil's wife and family support 22:16 — Risk, uncertainty, and why YouTube can change fast 23:44 — Keeping the channel family-friendly and community-centered 25:08 — Studying elementary education and never becoming a teacher 26:38 — The teaching style that shows up in Neil's videos 28:03 — Explaining drainage tile and field work on camera 28:33 — Neil's work as an agronomist 29:33 — Learning agriculture through family and on-the-job experience 31:21 — Approaching new challenges without fear of failure 33:17 — The story behind the Dig Drive DIY name 34:14 — Reaching 350,000 subscribers and dealing with imposter syndrome 36:14 — Strong local support from family, friends, and neighbors 37:40 — Community cooperation and volunteerism in small-town life 39:04 — Natural equipment skill and the value of patience 40:46 — Favorite projects, including the Bruno garden tractor and a restored 1979 Ford Bronco 42:40 — Advice for people who want to start a YouTube channel 43:41 — Why AI content may not replace real stories 44:39 — Why creators should not expect to get rich quickly on YouTube 45:40 — How YouTube income works, including AdSense and sponsorships 47:37 — How brand deals come to Neil and why he uses an agent 49:02 — Why newer creators should be realistic about the timeline 49:58 — Closing thoughts and appreciation for positive online content
September 15, 2026Episode 53752 min
537 Karen Schieler Likes Giving
In this episode, we explore the impactful work of Karen Schiller at Compeer, her journey from journalism to agriculture, and the importance of community leadership and giving back in rural America. key topics Karen Schiller's background and transition from journalism to agriculture The role of Compeer in supporting rural communities and agriculture The importance of leadership and volunteerism in rural areas Strategies for effective philanthropy and community investment The impact of small donations and community involvement Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Karen Schiller and her background 01:59 Karen's journey from Chicago suburbs to rural Illinois 03:52 Introduction to Thunderstruck Ag and their products 05:48 Karen's experience with her name and community interactions 09:13 Overview of Compeer and its mission in agriculture 11:03 Rebranding and focus areas of Compeer Giving 12:53 The importance of community involvement and leadership 17:04 Selection process for board members and governance 20:07 Karen's career shift from journalism to agriculture support 22:55 The significance of small donations and community gratitude 27:12 Developing rural leadership and volunteerism 31:54 Recognition and awards in agriculture and community service 35:06 The role of diversity and inclusion in agriculture leadership 40:05 The importance of community events and local engagement 44:12 The impact of touchpoints and personal interactions in agriculture 47:56 Bridging urban and rural understanding in agriculture 52:09 Closing thoughts and future outlooks
September 8, 2026Episode 53656 min
536 Jimmy O'Connor Second Chances
Jimmy O'Connor, founder of the Second Story Foundation, shares his inspiring journey of recovery from severe substance use disorder and how his farm-based program helps others rebuild their lives through work, community, and purpose. key topics The mission of the Second Story Foundation The role of farm work in recovery and resilience Systemic barriers faced by those in early recovery The importance of community and support networks The impact of natural settings on mental health The process of building a sustainable recovery program The significance of self-sufficiency and independence in recovery The role of professional help and peer support in overcoming addiction takeaways Farm-based programs can provide real work experience and build confidence for those in recovery. Long-term sobriety is a daily journey that requires community, purpose, and support. Systemic barriers like unstable housing and unemployment are major hurdles for recovery. Natural settings and farm work have inherent healing properties. Building a sustainable, generational recovery program requires careful planning and stewardship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jimmy O'Connor and the Second Story Foundation 01:57 The origins of the farm-based recovery program 04:46 How farm work supports resilience and confidence 08:07 Understanding severe substance use disorder 11:02 Barriers to long-term recovery: housing, employment, community 14:53 The structure of the farm's workforce development program 17:46 Building life skills and soft skills through farm work 21:11 The importance of self-sufficiency and independence 24:06 Jimmy's personal journey of sobriety and hope 28:02 The healing power of natural settings and farm life 31:51 Engaging with policymakers and community support 36:02 Passing down values and building a legacy 40:12 Signs of genuine desire to change in someone struggling with addiction 44:04 The importance of professional help and community resources 47:54 Encouragement for those seeking help and hope 52:00 Jimmy's message of love, sacrifice, and service
September 1, 202652 min
535 Chandler Janes Won't Drive Cart
Shark Farmer Podcast — Chandler Janes In this episode of Shark Farmer, Rob talks with Chandler Janes of Urbana, Illinois about life, farming, faith, and the path that shaped her career in agriculture. Chandler shares how growing up in central Illinois, losing her dad unexpectedly at a young age, and finding her place on the family farm influenced both her personal life and professional journey. They kick things off with a lively conversation about Beck's Hybrids' big event and the energy of ag shows, including how farmers and ag professionals tend to bring a more positive attitude than the average trade show crowd. Chandler, who works on the digital marketing team at Beck's, talks about the trust farmers place in seed decisions and how the rewards program has helped build long-term confidence on her farm. From there, the conversation turns more personal. Chandler opens up about studying agriculture leadership education at the University of Illinois, then earning a master's degree in agriculture production after her father passed away unexpectedly when she was 20. She talks honestly about grief, faith, and how the loss pushed her to stay close to home, support the family farm, and build a life in Champaign-Urbana. The episode also explores: Chandler's role in agriculture marketing and social media Her experience working for an ag agency and Precision Planting A memorable trip to Germany through an agriculture policy program How she and her husband Connor learned to farm together The realities of raising a young child while balancing work and farm life Why authenticity matters more than polish in interviews and leadership Chandler's perspective is grounded, thoughtful, and refreshingly honest. She talks about resilience not as a buzzword, but as something shaped by real life — tragedy, responsibility, family, and choosing to keep moving forward. Key Takeaways Farm shows and ag events can create a uniquely positive, community-driven atmosphere. Loss and adversity can reshape career direction and personal purpose. Authenticity builds stronger connection than a polished persona. Expanding your network and job shadowing are powerful ways to enter agriculture careers. Family, faith, and adaptability are central to Chandler's life and work. Memorable Themes Resilience after loss Faith in difficult seasons Family farming and shared responsibility Agriculture careers for young women Marketing, communication, and leadership in ag Guest Bio Chandler Janes is an agriculture marketing professional from Urbana, Illinois, with experience in social media, paid media, dealership marketing, and ag communications. She works for Beck's Hybrids and remains closely involved in her family farm while balancing work, motherhood, and community life.
August 25, 2026Episode 53353 min
534 Sam Goldberg Perfect Sundays
Rob Sharkey interviews Sam Goldberg about his journey from acting to creating impactful media about agriculture, focusing on the series Perfect Sundays. They discuss the importance of authentic storytelling in farming, addressing mental health, family dynamics, and supporting rural communities. key topics The transition from acting to farm media The making of Perfect Sundays and its themes The importance of authentic storytelling in agriculture Addressing mental health and family dynamics in farming The role of community and industry support in farm media The impact of storytelling on farm safety and mental health awareness Partnerships with agricultural companies like Sukup The significance of farm authenticity and avoiding stereotypes Engagement with farmers and rural communities Future projects and community events for farm storytelling Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sam Goldberg and his journey 02:13 The creation and purpose of Perfect Sundays 04:01 Authenticity in portraying farm life 07:49 Addressing mental health and family struggles in farming 10:13 The decision to avoid depicting suicide directly 13:01 Family dynamics and character development 15:50 Partnerships with agricultural companies like Sukup 19:09 Community screenings and outreach efforts 22:02 Supporting farm stories through funding and industry 25:53 Upcoming Farm Progress show and series release 29:05 The importance of supporting farm media financially 32:53 The difference between documentary and fictional storytelling 43:57 How Silo and Perfect Sundays changed perspectives 47:05 Personal transformation through rural America 49:00 How to access and support Perfect Sundays
August 18, 2026Episode 53354 min
533 Chris Bennett Telling The Story of Agriculture
In this episode, Rob Sharkey interviews agriculture journalist Chris Bennett about the hidden stories of farming, wildlife encounters, and the complexities of agricultural media. They explore fascinating tales from the field, the challenges of investigative reporting, and the unique culture of rural America. key topics The role of storytelling in agriculture Wild pig attacks and their impact Historical mysteries like the lady in red Crop insurance fraud schemes Challenges of investigative journalism in farming The culture and biases of agriculture media The importance of authentic farm stories Wildlife interactions and their dangers The influence of history on modern farming The complexity of rural law enforcement Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chris Bennett and his work 02:04 The role of storytelling in agriculture and media bias 04:00 Wild pig attacks and their real dangers 07:51 The lady in red: a mysterious Civil War era find 12:13 Investigating crop insurance scams and fraud 16:00 Historical and modern mysteries in rural America 19:48 The challenges of investigative journalism in agriculture 25:10 Wildlife encounters and their sometimes deadly outcomes 29:59 The culture of secrecy and bias in farming media 34:52 The importance of authentic farm stories and history 40:13 The road ahead for agricultural storytelling and journalism
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