The Heart of Rural America

Hosted by Amanda Radke

Business Entrepreneurship Arts FoodInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

153

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

About the show

Welcome to the Heart of Rural America podcast. I’m your host, Amanda Radke -- a South Dakota cattle rancher, wife, mom of four, children’s book author, and motivational speaker. I started this show with a simple goal in mind -- to share the untold stories of the often-overlooked independent farmer and rancher. On this program, We’ll discuss the challenges that face rural America and the anti-animal agriculture agenda that seeks to eliminate our way of life. But in the face of these ongoing battles, we’ll explore impactful solutions and meaningful pathways to profitability in order to keep producers on the land, to safeguard our private property rights, and to keep meat, dairy, and eggs on the dinner table. And in stark contrast to the ugly, divisive headlines in today’s mainstream media, "The Heart of Rural America" will celebrate the faith, family values, patriotism, and work ethic of the incredible people I meet in my travels as an agricultural speaker. I hope you’ll be inspired by these agricultural entrepreneurs and rural families, just as I am. Now let’s hit the dusty trail together as we uncover The Heart of Rural America. - Amanda

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 3, 202622 min

The Future of Cattle Ranching: Why Independent Producers Are Winning Again

TakeawaysIndependent cattle producers are finally seeing leverage after decades of survival modeStrong genetics and strategic breeding decisions are creating massive opportunities in today’s cattle marketRanchers must embrace entrepreneurship and free market thinking to build long term successAmanda Radke sits down with Chris Earl at Meat Stock, surrounded by thousands of beef enthusiasts, to discuss the state of the cattle industry, genetics, beef demand, and why independent producers may finally be entering their strongest market cycle in generations.Chris shares why cattle producers deserve more credit for surviving decades of difficult market conditions, how genetics are shaping the future of beef production, and why entrepreneurship may be the biggest opportunity for rural America moving forward.Together, Amanda and Chris discuss everything from beef demand and policy shifts to free market capitalism, cow numbers, family ranch survival, and what producers can do today to position themselves for the future.Key Topics Covered:Why CK6 Consulting saw record breaking sale seasonsBeef genetics and selection pressure in today’s marketWhy independent producers finally have leverageEntrepreneurship versus commodity thinkingThe future outlook for beef demandWhy producers must advocate for themselvesPolitics, policy shifts, and family ranch survivalBuilding generational opportunities in agricultureFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

May 20, 202645 min

The Truth About AI Data Centers and Rural America with Sara Steever

TakeawaysAI data centers require enormous amounts of electricity and water resourcesRural communities are increasingly concerned about property rights and local controlThe economic promises tied to hyperscale data centers may not match realityAI technology presents both opportunities and risks for jobs, privacy, and national securitySouth Dakota lawmakers debated major legislation involving data center tax incentives and citizen protectionsIn this episode of The Heart of Rural America, Amanda Radke sits down with longtime friend and technology expert Sara Steever for an in-depth conversation about AI, hyperscale data centers, property rights, and the future of rural America.Sara explains the growing concerns surrounding massive data center developments proposed across South Dakota and other rural communities. From energy consumption and water usage to economic development claims and surveillance concerns, this episode breaks down the realities behind the AI boom and what it could mean for agriculture, small towns, and future generations.Amanda and Sara also discuss the role of government incentives, local control, free markets, and why first principles like privacy, critical thinking, and faith matter more than ever in an increasingly digital world.Key Topics Covered:What hyperscale AI data centers actually areHow much electricity large data centers consumeThe hidden water usage tied to AI infrastructureEconomic development promises versus real job creationProperty rights and local community concernsSouth Dakota legislation involving data centersAI’s impact on jobs and workforce developmentNational security concerns related to AI and ChinaPrivacy, surveillance, and deepfake technologyWhy critical thinking and faith matter in the AI eraFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

May 6, 202639 min

Lawfare in Agriculture: The Hidden Threat to American Ranchers with Heather Maude

TakeawaysLawfare is a growing issue impacting farmers and ranchers across AmericaGovernment overreach can have devastating personal and financial consequencesCivic engagement is essential to protect property rights and rural communitiesIn this powerful season premiere, Amanda Radke sits down with rancher Heather Maude to discuss her family’s legal battle with federal agencies over a land dispute that escalated into felony charges. Heather shares how their case became a national example of lawfare in agriculture, the emotional toll it took on her family, and how they ultimately fought back. The episode also explores broader concerns about government accountability, property rights, and the importance of staying engaged in policy decisions that impact rural America.Key Topics Covered:Heather Maude’s legal battle with the USDA and US Forest ServiceThe concept and real-world impact of lawfare in agricultureProperty rights and federal overreachThe role of political leadership and accountabilityAdvocacy efforts to protect rural landownersThe importance of civic engagement in shaping policyRebuilding life and finding normalcy after a public legal battleFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

April 29, 202640 min

Stop the Fighting on the Way to the Funeral Home with Jolene Brown [REPLAY]

One of agriculture’s greatest treasures, a champion for farmers and ranchers, an Iowa farmer, and my dear friend, Jolene Brown joins me on the show to discuss how we can better plan for the future, avoid common pitfalls, and prepare for success in our family businesses. Grab a pen and paper to take notes; you’re going to want to listen to this valuable episode twice!Presented by CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Meats by Linz | Linz Heritage Angus | Redmond Real Salthttps://amandaradke.com/

April 22, 202640 min

Getting in the Arena with Kim Bremmer [REPLAY]

Kim Bremmer, of Ag Inspirations, joins me to talk about the challenges facing family farms, how to get involved, and the best tips for pushing back against government overreach. Presented by CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Meats by Linz |Linz Heritage Angus | Redmond RealSalt

April 15, 202639 min

Redmond Real Salt for People & Livestock with Karson Rippstein

Healthy land. Healthy cattle. Healthy people. That’s the focus of today’s show with podcast partner, Redmond Real Salt. I’m joined by Redmond’s Karson Rippstein to talk all things cattle, soil, and steak.https://redmond.life/collections/real-salt?srsltid=AfmBOoqiByDHJb1AlUIYL6CBu9CfbcNq8nLj22k6GWq3QUTdofxX_JwVPresented by CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Meats by Linz | Linz Heritage Angus | Redmond RealSalt

April 8, 202632 min

Battling Washington DC’s Overreach with SD Senator Mark Lapka [REPLAY]

In this powerful episode of The Heart of Rural America, Amanda Radke sits down with South Dakota landowner Senator Mark Lapka to discuss the growing controversy around carbon pipelines, federal eminent domain, and the far-reaching implications of HR 4135. The conversation unpacks how 45Q tax credits may be placing a financial burden on taxpayers, why many in agriculture are skeptical of carbon sequestration efforts, and how grassroots movements in South Dakota are rising up to protect property rights. Mark shares firsthand insights on the importance of preserving local control and urges citizens to get involved, stay informed, and make their voices heard in the face of federal overreach. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rural land rights and the future of American agriculture.Key Takeaways:HR 4135 has sparked widespread concern over the expansion of federal eminent domain powers.South Dakotans are uniting to protect local control and property rights from outside influence.The 45Q carbon capture tax credits shift financial burdens onto taxpayers with little local benefit.Carbon pipelines and sequestration plans are being met with growing resistance in rural communities.Transparency and citizen engagement are crucial when it comes to federal legislation affecting landowners.This issue extends beyond South Dakota — it reflects national tensions over land use and government power.Grassroots advocacy is playing a pivotal role in defending rural voices and resisting federal oversight.The political landscape in South Dakota is evolving, with more leaders prioritizing landowner rights.Mark Lapka encourages citizens to contact their legislators and take an active role in policy conversations.The episode highlights the importance of staying informed and organized in the fight for rural America.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-books

April 1, 202649 min

Stand Your Ground with SD Speaker of the House Jon Hansen, Speaker Pro Tem Karla Lems & Senator Mark Lapka [REPLAY]

Following the conclusion of South Dakota's 100th legislative session, I travel to the Siouxland Republican Women's Meeting in Sioux Falls, SD, joined by South Dakota Speaker of the House Jon Hansen, Speaker Pro Tem Karla Lems & Senator Mark Lapka to discuss the passage of HB1052 to eliminate eminent domain for carbon pipelines and how South Dakota is serving as a beacon of hope for the rest of the nation.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | By-O-Reg+ | Dirt Road RadioSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-books

March 25, 202640 min

Motherhood, Entrepreneurship, & Juggling The Chaos Of It All with Courtney Coughlin [REPLAY]

Amanda sits down with her sister, Courtney Coughlin, to discuss faith, family, entrepreneurship, juggling it all, and how to find opportunities in agriculture in unique and exciting ways.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | By-O-Reg+ | Dirt Road RadioSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-books

March 18, 202633 min

Ranching on the Front Lines: Border Security Realities with Erica Valdez {REPLAY]

In this episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke speaks with Erica Valdez, a rancher with experience on border issues, about the changing dynamics of border crossings and their impact on ranching communities. Valdez shares her experiences of the increasing dangers posed by drug traffickers and the misconceptions perpetuated by mainstream media. The conversation highlights the importance of education and advocacy for rural communities affected by border security issues.TakeawaysErica Valdez shares her experiences as a rancher near the Mexican border.The nature of border crossings has changed significantly over the years.Mainstream media often misrepresents the realities of border issues.Ranchers face unique challenges and dangers due to drug trafficking.Community safety is a major concern for ranchers living near the border.Education and advocacy are crucial for addressing border security issues.Ranchers are often armed and take precautions when working at night.The impact of border issues extends beyond the border communities.Valdez emphasizes the importance of understanding the realities of border life.Grassroots efforts are needed to influence policy on border security.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | By-O-Reg+ | Dirt Road RadioSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-books