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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 00:00Introduction to Barry and Michelle Acoke 01:56The Acoke family's farming roots and diversification 05:11Barry's career in cotton consulting and international work 10:12The impact of faith and community service 14:57Managing multiple business ventures: nursing homes and restaurants 20:00The importance of relationships and leadership in rural business 25:10Reflections on success, failure, and failing forward 29:50Advice for entrepreneurs and young farmers 35:06The Acoke family's future plans and legacy

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

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 00:00Introduction to Karen Schiller and her background 01:59Karen's journey from Chicago suburbs to rural Illinois 03:52Introduction to Thunderstruck Ag and their products 05:48Karen's experience with her name and community interactions 09:13Overview of Compeer and its mission in agriculture 11:03Rebranding and focus areas of Compeer Giving 12:53The importance of community involvement and leadership 17:04Selection process for board members and governance 20:07Karen's career shift from journalism to agriculture support 22:55The significance of small donations and community gratitude 27:12Developing rural leadership and volunteerism 31:54Recognition and awards in agriculture and community service 35:06The role of diversity and inclusion in agriculture leadership 40:05The importance of community events and local engagement 44:12The impact of touchpoints and personal interactions in agriculture 47:56Bridging urban and rural understanding in agriculture 52:09Closing thoughts and future outlooks

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 00:00Introduction to Jimmy O'Connor and the Second Story Foundation 01:57The origins of the farm-based recovery program 04:46How farm work supports resilience and confidence 08:07Understanding severe substance use disorder 11:02Barriers to long-term recovery: housing, employment, community 14:53The structure of the farm's workforce development program 17:46Building life skills and soft skills through farm work 21:11The importance of self-sufficiency and independence 24:06Jimmy's personal journey of sobriety and hope 28:02The healing power of natural settings and farm life 31:51Engaging with policymakers and community support 36:02Passing down values and building a legacy 40:12Signs of genuine desire to change in someone struggling with addiction 44:04The importance of professional help and community resources 47:54Encouragement for those seeking help and hope 52:00Jimmy's message of love, sacrifice, and service

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.

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 00:00Introduction to Sam Goldberg and his journey 02:13The creation and purpose of Perfect Sundays 04:01Authenticity in portraying farm life 07:49Addressing mental health and family struggles in farming 10:13The decision to avoid depicting suicide directly 13:01Family dynamics and character development 15:50Partnerships with agricultural companies like Sukup 19:09Community screenings and outreach efforts 22:02Supporting farm stories through funding and industry 25:53Upcoming Farm Progress show and series release 29:05The importance of supporting farm media financially 32:53The difference between documentary and fictional storytelling 43:57How Silo and Perfect Sundays changed perspectives 47:05Personal transformation through rural America 49:00How to access and support Perfect Sundays

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 00:00Introduction to Chris Bennett and his work 02:04The role of storytelling in agriculture and media bias 04:00Wild pig attacks and their real dangers 07:51The lady in red: a mysterious Civil War era find 12:13Investigating crop insurance scams and fraud 16:00Historical and modern mysteries in rural America 19:48The challenges of investigative journalism in agriculture 25:10Wildlife encounters and their sometimes deadly outcomes 29:59The culture of secrecy and bias in farming media 34:52The importance of authentic farm stories and history 40:13The road ahead for agricultural storytelling and journalism

Have a listen as we talk with Bo Allen about how he started a custome harvest busness in Ohio

In this episode, Rob Sharkey interviews Loran Steinlage from West Union, Iowa, exploring innovative farming practices, soil health, crop diversification, and the future of agriculture. Discover insights on relay cropping, cover crops, data-driven farming, and industry collaborations that are shaping sustainable agriculture. key topics Relay cropping and its benefits Soil health and carbon sequestration Use of cover crops like cereal rye and annual ryegrass Data collection and farm management technology Industry collaboration and biofuel policies Farm diversification and crop rotation strategies Challenges and solutions in modern farming Farmer mentorship and community engagement  Takeaways Relay cropping can produce three cash crops a year, boosting income. Cover crops like cereal rye improve soil structure and reduce weeds. Data collection with soil sensors shows soil health is improving. Industry engagement helps farmers adopt new technologies. Farmers can balance profitability with sustainability. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest overview 02:02 Farm history and crop diversification 03:58 Industry events and technology showcases 06:50 Relay cropping and soil health benefits 12:06 Data collection and farm management 15:54 Soil improvement and cover crop strategies 21:11 Industry collaboration and policy insights 27:52 Farmers' perspectives on innovation 34:58 Future trends and industry partnerships 42:05 Closing thoughts and farmer advice

In this episode, we explore the journey of Jeremy's Matuszewski sons, TJ and Bobby, as they transition into the family business, Thunderstruck. We discuss their experiences with farm shows, product innovation, and balancing sports, coaching, and work, highlighting the importance of family, innovation, and industry connections. Key topics Transition from non-ag backgrounds to family business Farm show strategies and customer engagement Product innovation and design in agriculture Balancing sports, coaching, and work commitments Family dynamics and succession in agriculture Chapters 00:00Introduction to Thunderstruck and the Guests 01:58The Sons' Backgrounds and Entry into the Family Business 07:10Learning Curve at Farm Shows and Farmer Interactions 11:56Product Innovation: Concaves and Design Process 19:45Balancing Sports, Coaching, and Work 29:48Family Dynamics and Coming Full Circle 39:49The Thunderstruck Family and Industry Connections 49:52Company Growth, Show Strategies, and Future Plans 53:26Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Join us as we explore the journey of third-generation farmers Brittany and Calvin Beasley of Beasley Orchard in Indiana. Discover their diverse crop operations, agritourism strategies, and how they navigate modern farming challenges while sharing insights into sustainable practices and community engagement. key topics Diversification of crops and agritourism activities Challenges of farming near suburban development Family farm legacy and succession planning Use of technology and innovative practices in farming Labor management and H2A visa program Marketing and community engagement strategies Chapters 00:00Introduction to Beasley Orchard and Guests 04:12History of the Farm and Crop Diversification 10:09Transition from traditional farming to agritourism 19:54Crop management and planting practices 29:53Farm infrastructure and expansion plans 39:46Community relations and handling development pressures 49:59Future plans and challenges in farming 51:55Advice for aspiring farmers and closing remarks

In this episode Laney and Joseph Harvick talk about their journey from Texas to Missouri, their innovative farming practices, community engagement, and overcoming storm-related setbacks. Discover practical advice for aspiring farmers and insights into building a successful local food business. key topics Journey from Texas to Missouri Community engagement and building trust Transition from plant nursery to food production Diversification of farm income streams Farm resilience and storm recovery Farm education and community classes Building relationships with local restaurants and institutions Farm mentorship and advice for new farmers takeaways Building trust in a new community takes time and effort. Diversifying income streams is key to farm success. Community involvement and education foster local support. Resilience and adaptability are crucial after setbacks. Personal relationships are vital for business growth. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Laney and Joseph Harvick 02:02Their move from Texas to Missouri 04:05Starting in community and building trust 07:00Transition from nursery to food production 12:03Building relationships with local restaurants and institutions 14:56Farm infrastructure and hands-on skills 19:50Diversification: Greenhouses, high tunnels, and specialty crops 24:45Community involvement and education classes 30:04Homeschooling and community support 34:48Handling storm damage and resilience 40:10Advice for new farmers and farm mentorship 44:51Final thoughts and encouragement for farmers

Join us as we explore the California grape industry with Kyle Collins, manager of North Valley Operations at Allied Grape Growers. We discuss vineyard management, industry challenges, market dynamics, and the future of American wine. key topics California grape industry overview Role of cooperatives in wine production Market and legislative challenges for American wine Grape varieties and vineyard management Industry impact of global wine glut Chapters 00:00Introduction to Lodi, California and Agriculture 03:00The Role of Thunderstruck Ag in Farming 05:47Understanding the Cooperative Model in Wine Production 09:07Challenges Faced by Grape Growers 11:57The Importance of Collective Bargaining in Agriculture 15:08Family Values and Traditions in Farming 17:50The Debate on American Wine Standards 21:07Personal Journey in the Vineyard Industry 25:00Rattlesnakes and Vineyards: A Unique Challenge 28:40Daily Life in the Vineyard: Balancing Farming and Sales 30:37Navigating Relationships: Growers and Co-ops 31:07Pest Management: Grapes and Their Challenges 32:30Traveling the Vineyards: A Regional Perspective 33:28California's Unique Agricultural Challenges 35:22Demand vs. Supply: The Shrinking Vineyard Landscape 37:43Generational Shifts: Changing Drinking Habits 40:03Global Wine Market: Imports and Exports 42:29The Future of Affordable Wine: Market Innovations 46:44The Heart of the Industry: People Behind the Wine 48:09Connecting with the Community: Resources and Outreach

Are you ready to be inspired by a man who embodies resilience, passion, and authenticity? Meet Jake Jacobs — a fifth-generation Tennessee farmer and construction mogul whose story is as raw as it is motivating. This episode isn't just about farming; it's about living with purpose, embracing every challenge, and pushing the boundaries of what hard work can achieve. In this episode: Jake's journey from farming to building a multi-faceted empire in construction and horses How his family heritage shapes his identity and business decisions The fascinating world of Tennessee walking horses and the deep roots of horse culture in Murfreesboro The innovative safety technology transforming explosive and construction work The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and the power of delegation Lessons on mindset: working early, working hard, and appreciating blessings His thoughts on community, development, and balancing progress with tradition Personal stories of love, resilience, and pure passion for horses, family, and farming Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and the significance of Jake Jacobs' story 02:03 - Growing up on the farm and expansion into construction 04:25 - The construction industry: tackling the jobs no one else wants 06:43 - Breaking bedrock and working with modern technology in blasting 09:06 - Building a successful team and the art of delegation 10:32 - Growing up on a farm and nurturing a lifelong passion for horses 12:23 - The incredible journey of creating a world-class Tennessee walking horse farm 14:15 - The competitive, yet tight-knit horse community in Murfreesboro 16:38 - Trends in farmland development and the impact on agriculture 18:28 - Community growth, local industry, and how new businesses influence the area 20:24 - How successful people surround themselves with success 22:16 - A personal story: navigating a horse accident with resilience and faith 24:33 - The power of a strong mindset and perseverance in the face of adversity 27:26 - The operation of a high-end horse breeding and training farm 30:40 - Maintaining a state-of-the-art breeding facility and the business behind it 33:59 - The economics of breeding champion Tennessee walking horses 35:52 - Managing health, safety, and disease control in a busy farm environment 38:11 - The dedication of a multi-trainer operation and the art of equitation 40:00 - The passion of a young girl chasing her dreams in the horse world 41:16 - Moments of emotion: tears of joy and pride 43:08 - The significance of the Tennessee walking horse industry 44:32 - The camaraderie and the importance of farm organizations 45:29 - The cultural pride of Tennessee horses and the industry's future 46:55 - The mindset of a champion: early mornings, hard work, and gratitude 47:51 - Closing thoughts and how to connect with Jake Jacobs

In this episode, Mitchell Yerkes shares insights into California agriculture, including crop diversity, regulatory challenges, innovative drying techniques, and the importance of human connection in farming. key topics Crop diversity in California Regulatory and legislative challenges Innovative fruit drying techniques Water management and sustainability Farm advocacy and human connection Chapters 00:00Introduction to Calusa and Farming Background 03:13Challenges of Farming in California 06:00Family Farming Dynamics and Personal Journey 08:50Regulatory Landscape and Its Impact on Agriculture 12:07Innovative Solutions in Agriculture 14:54Sustainable Practices and Market Adaptation 22:21The Fruit Drying Yard: A Legacy of Innovation 28:57Advocacy in Agriculture: Lobbying for Farmers' Needs 32:16The Joys of Parenthood: Lessons from a Three-Year-Old 39:54Coaching Youth Sports: More Than Just Games 41:49California Agriculture: A Diverse and Precious Resource