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Rural Realities

Rural Realities

By: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection
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Given the ongoing challenges facing the agriculture industry – low prices, uncertain markets, trade uncertainty, and inclement weather - it’s no surprise that farmers and farm families are experiencing more stress. “Rural Realities” focuses on helping farmers tap into their resilient nature by presenting advice from experts that can help reduce stress, improve a farm’s financial situation, implement good farm family communication skills, and more. ***The department is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of department policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the department. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by department employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of the department or any of its officials. If you have any questions about this disclaimer, please contact our Department’s General Counsel.

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Episodes
  • Redefining Legacy: Family Farm Transitions, Stress, & Clarity

    Redefining Legacy: Family Farm Transitions, Stress, & Clarity
    Mar 12 2026

    Family farm transitions is one of the most emotionally complex and stressful topics in agriculture. Host Karen Endres from the Wisconsin Farm Center talks to Jace D. Young about how stress can build when expectations, communication and financial realities aren’t aligned. Jace, founder of Legacy Farmer, has lived this reality firsthand and now helps farm families across the country navigate transition with greater clarity and confidence.

    Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than 100 years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at (800) 942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.

    If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at (888) 901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.
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    42 mins
  • Finding Gratitude on the Farm

    Finding Gratitude on the Farm
    Feb 12 2026

    It is easy to focus on the challenges on the farm but in this episode of Rural Realities, host Karen Endres from the Wisconsin Farm Center talks to Katy Schultz of Tri-Fecta Farms about gratitude and what fuels resiliency in our family businesses. Katy is a dairy farmer, a leader, and a firm believer in lifelong learning. Listen to learn about the simple gratitude practice Katy starts off each day with, and how it has helped her excel in farming and life.

    Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than 100 years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at (800) 942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.

    If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at (888) 901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.
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    32 mins
  • Getting Unstuck in the New Year and Chasing Your Goals

    Getting Unstuck in the New Year and Chasing Your Goals
    Jan 16 2026

    As we enter the new year, many of us think about resolutions, but what if the real work isn’t just a new habit, but getting free from what is holding us back? In this episode of Rural Realities, host Karen Endres from the Wisconsin Farm Center talks with Kayla Easland, a dually licensed therapist and founder of Woodfire Counseling, about setting goals and dealing with past trauma so you can live a fulfilling life.

    Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than one hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at (800) 942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.

    If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at (888) 901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.
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    35 mins
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