American Family Farmer

This week, Doug Stephan (EastleighFarm.com) welcomes Andrew Mickelson, sixth-generation Idaho farmer and Chief Technology Officer at Mickelsen Farms (MickelsenFarms.com), one of the region’s largest potato producers. The Mickelsen family has been growing potatoes and grains for generations, building a legacy rooted in hard work, innovation, and community. Andrew shares insights into the family’s diverse operations — from growing Russet Burbank and Norkotah potatoes for the fresh market, to producing seed potatoes under Yellowstone Seed, to packing and processing through Rigby Produce and Potato Products of Idaho. In addition to running day-to-day farm operations, Andrew is also a strong advocate for the Right to Repair movement, pushing for farmers to have access to the tools and diagnostic codes needed to fix their own equipment. His leadership highlights how family farmers are not just feeding America, but also shaping the future of agriculture. Tune in to hear Andrew’s story of family, advocacy, and the technology that keeps America’s farms thriving. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan www.eastleighfarm.com shares why he created the American Family Farmer program before jumping into the news affecting family farmers, beginning with a story from Florida and how farmers are plowing over perfectly good tomatoes as the tariff policies are costing prices to go down. The latest on how the I.C.E. raids are affecting small farmers. Then, the problem in most parts of the U.S. with attacks on cattle by wolves and coyotes. Apparently, there are drones being used to deter the wolves in order to protect the cattle — and the drones are blasting AC/DC music to chase the wolves and coyotes away. Next up, Doug thinks about the problems that keep coming up with getting fresh vegetables and having a source, and how many are thinking about starting their own vegetable garden. Doug also shares information on the agri-hood he’s developing. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) welcomes Svitlana “Lana” Synkovskaim, Portfolio Director of Women in Agribusiness (WIA): http://womeninag.com. They discuss: 👩‍🌾 How Women in Agribusiness is empowering women across the agriculture and food sectors 🌍 The growth of the WIA community — from 200 attendees in 2012 to over 1,000 in 2024 🤝 Networking, events, and initiatives helping women build careers in agribusiness 🏆 The Demeter Award of Excellence and how it honors women breaking barriers 🎓 Student scholarships that connect young leaders with career opportunities 📅 What to expect at the upcoming 14th Annual WIA Summit in Orlando, September 22–24 It’s an inspiring look at how women are shaping the future of agriculture through innovation, leadership, and collaboration. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) shares why he created the program and why supporting family farms matters more than ever. He covers: 🏡 Brooke Rollins’ plans for rural development funds and how they’ll impact farmers 📜 The “Big Beautiful Bill” and key highlights that affect agriculture 🌽 Rising corn prices and what that means for farmers 🚫 The spread of the screwworm, new bans on Mexican livestock imports, and even a rare human case 🇺🇸 Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” push 🌱 Why some farmers resist restrictions on Monsanto and similar products It’s an honest look at the challenges and opportunities facing America’s family farmers today. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

For 40 years, Farm Aid has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with family farmers, ensuring they can stay on their land and thrive despite corporate pressures, bad policies, and climate challenges. In this episode of American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan welcomes Jennifer Fahy, Co-Executive Director and longtime Communications Director of Farm Aid. Jennifer shares how Farm Aid began as a one-day benefit concert in 1985 — founded by Willie Nelson, Neil Young, and John Mellencamp — and has since grown into a powerful nonprofit movement raising over $60 million to keep family farmers farming. We dive into the upcoming Farm Aid 40 festival in Minneapolis, the importance of Homegrown Concessions® and Homegrown Village, and the ongoing fight for a fair and sustainable food system. 🎶 Plus, get the inside scoop on this year’s incredible lineup, from Willie Nelson and Dave Matthews to Wynonna Judd, Kenny Chesney, and more. 👉 Learn more at FarmAid.org. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

In this episode of American Family Farmer, host and farmer Doug Stephan of Eastleigh Farm shares why he created this program — to give voice to the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of America’s family farmers. Doug dives into the latest news shaping agriculture, including: 🌱 The One Big Beautiful Bill, with key estate planning and tax changes 🌱 Shifts in health policy taking a softer approach to corporate regulation 🌱 An update on the screwworm and what farmers need to know 🌱 Why farming looks different as larger companies take over more operations 🌱 The harsh reality that many farm owners must work outside jobs just to sustain their farms. It’s a candid look at the pressures family farmers face today — and why supporting them is more important than ever. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

This week on American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (EastleighFarm.com) welcomes Jared Zystro, Research & Education Director of the Organic Seed Alliance (OSA). For more than two decades, OSA has worked to put the power of seed back into the hands of growers through research, education, advocacy, and community-building. Jared shares how OSA is confronting the challenges of seed industry consolidation, advancing organic plant breeding, and ensuring farmers have access to diverse, high-quality organic seed. He also discusses OSA’s vision for a resilient and equitable future of food—where seed is stewarded by interconnected communities across the country. From the history of seed preservation to the fight for farmers’ rights to save seed, this conversation sheds light on why seed sovereignty is essential for the health of our farms, food systems, and future generations. Learn more about Organic Seed Alliance at SeedAlliance.org. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

This week on American Family Farmer, host and farmer Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) shares the latest news impacting small farmers across the U.S. Doug breaks down the “Big Beautiful Bill,” being called Farm Bill 2.0, which includes: He also covers the reintroduction of the Farmer to Farmer Education Act, designed to expand farmer-led conservation education and technical assistance—especially for underserved farmers and high-poverty areas. Other topics include the new U.S. Farm Security Plan, challenging Chinese ownership of farmland and major agribusinesses, and Doug’s own reflections on what makes family farm operations successful. His conclusion? Time management is the most critical variable. For many farmers, balancing off-farm income with the demands of the land is the reality—and not always sustainable. Doug shares his perspective as both a broadcaster and working farmer on how to navigate these challenges. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

This week, Doug Stephan talks with Janelle Maiocco, Founder and CEO of Barn2Door (Barn2Door.com) — the all-in-one software platform helping independent farmers sell directly to local customers. From streamlining online and in-person sales to simplifying marketing and farm management, Barn2Door empowers farmers to keep more profit, save time, and connect with buyers anytime, anywhere. Janelle shares how Barn2Door has grown to serve thousands of farms in all 50 states, why technology is becoming essential for farm-to-table success, and how her deep roots in agriculture and food have shaped her mission to help farmers thrive in today’s market. Whether you’re a farmer, foodie, or just love supporting local, this conversation will inspire you to think about where your food comes from — and the technology making it easier to get it there.

Doug Stephan — veteran broadcaster and proud dairy farmer (EastleighFarm.com) — breaks down the week’s top stories impacting family farms across the country. This week: “crisis”reorganization planBig Beautiful BillSkinny Farm Billice creamIt’s the latest ag news with a healthy scoop of Doug’s insight — and maybe a side of ice cream.

This week, Doug tackles a mix of hot-button issues impacting family farmers across the U.S., offering insight only a hands-on farmer can provide. 🧠 Episode Highlights: 🚜 The “Immigration Highway” Crisis Doug unpacks the growing confusion and legal challenges facing agricultural employers navigating immigration. He shares the tragic story of a multigenerational cherry farm forced to shut down due to a lack of labor — a painful example of a broken system. 🔍 “We need a clear and fair path to a stable farm workforce,” Doug says, “because most of our farm laborers today are foreign-born — and without them, farms fail.” 📜 The “One Big Beautiful Bill” Though it’s not technically a farm bill, Doug explains how this sweeping piece of legislation will have a greater impact on agriculture than anything else passed this year — from labor to land use, sustainability, and economic support. 🥩 Doug’s Take: U.S. Beef & Imports In his closing thoughts, Doug zeroes in on the beef industry — questioning the role of imports, their impact on American ranchers, and what consumers should know about where their meat comes from. 💡 Doug brings real-world experience and common sense to the issues that matter most to family farmers — from the ground up. 🎧 Listen now and stay connected to the people who grow your food. 📍 More about Doug's farm at EastleighFarm.com Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Guest: Ed Maltby, Executive Director Organization: Northeast Organic Dairy Producers Alliance (NODPA) 📍 Deerfield, MA Topic: 🐄 Organic Dairy & Advocacy in Washington, DC This week, host Doug Stephan welcomes Ed Maltby, Executive Director of NODPA — the largest grassroots organization representing organic dairy producers in the Northeast. With over two decades of leadership in the organic dairy space, Ed shares insights into the challenges facing small organic family farms, including unfair milk pricing, market instability, and the fight to uphold USDA Organic integrity. 🎧 Key Takeaways: Ed also highlights NODPA’s work: ✔ Hosting educational events & annual field days ✔ Publishing the bi-monthly NODPA News ✔ Running peer support networks like Odairy ✔ Administering a Farmer Emergency Fund ✔ Collaborating nationally through FOOD Farmers and with groups like the Organic Trade Association 🔗 Learn more or support NODPA at www.nodpa.com and www.organicmilk.org 📲 Follow the American Family Farmer podcast for more stories from the frontlines of American agriculture. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this week’s American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan takes on some of the week’s biggest agricultural stories. He begins with Brooke Rollins' surprising success at the USDA despite her lack of ag experience, especially in supporting disaster-hit farmers. Doug also dives into new findings on the dangers of ultra-processed foods vs. traditional whole grains and whole milk. Corn season is underway — and so is destruction from the corn earworm, worsened by extreme weather. Plus, a lighthearted look at the “cow decor” craze, and a serious note on why only real milk from mammals should be called milk. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

This week on The American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan welcomes Tyler Hawk of Hawk Farms in Kansas, Ohio. Though Tyler now lives in California, he still travels home to work the family’s 230-acre soybean and corn farm. Tyler shares the story of a beloved family heirloom — a 1947 Farmall M tractor restored after sitting in pieces during his childhood. Now serving as Executive Director at an assisted living facility, Tyler talks about how his farming roots continue to ground and guide him, even from across the country. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

This week on The American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan welcomes Warren Eckstein, Pet Behaviorst and Host of The Pet Show. The discussion starts off dispelling the false concept that animals don’t share many of the emotions humans have, but also the beautiful friendship and comradely we have with our animal friends and animal family members. When summer temperatures soar, it’s not just humans who suffer — farm animals, barn cats, and loyal working dogs are all vulnerable to heat stress. This week on the American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan is joined by internationally renowned pet behaviorist Warren Eckstein to talk about how to keep your animals safe and healthy during extreme heat. From simple solutions like shade and clean water to advanced cooling strategies, Warren shares practical, humane tips every farmer can implement. He also breaks down the critical early warning signs of heatstroke in animals and what to do if your livestock or pets are at risk. Warren’s four decades of experience — including working with celebrities and serving as a longtime expert on national TV and radio — make him one of the most trusted voices in animal care. Tune in for a conversation that’s as informative as it is heartfelt. Learn more: ThePetShow.com Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

On this week’s episode of The American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan (EastleighFarm.com) unpacks the latest developments from Washington and beyond that are shaping the future of America’s small farms. Policy Watch: Doug covers updates from the new "Big Beautiful Bill" — including key tax policies and increased federal spending aimed at supporting ag-businesses. With border security becoming an even bigger issue for American farmers, Doug shares why immigration reform and labor access are crucial to keeping small farms afloat. Protecting Our Farmland: The USDA has rolled out its National Farm Security Action Plan, aiming to limit foreign ownership of U.S. farmland — a move designed to reduce influence from adversarial nations and preserve our agricultural independence. Tomatoes, Tariffs & Trade Wars: Doug dives into the latest news on import restrictions from Mexico, including a 17% duty on fresh Mexican tomatoes, and ongoing prohibitions on live animal imports due to screwworm detection. Plus, how similar tariffs on European agricultural goods could impact our domestic food supply — and whether the U.S. is putting enough focus on what's grown here at home. This episode delivers a timely look at the intersection of farming, policy, and global trade — and how it affects the families who feed America. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

This week on The American Family Farmer, host and lifelong farmer Doug Stephan (www.eastleighfarm.com) shares critical updates impacting small farms across the country. Doug opens the show with a look at the ongoing immigration enforcement issues that are threatening family farms. The American Farm Bureau Federation has expressed serious concern over reports of renewed immigration crackdowns that are removing essential, hardworking laborers from small farm operations. Next, Doug dives into the challenges facing the beef cattle industry — including the reemergence of screwworm infestations coming up from Mexico, raising alarm for U.S. livestock. On top of that, an increase in tick activity is causing a surge in infestations across farms this season. Despite these concerns, there’s good news: the cattle market remains strong, with continued high demand. Turning to the honeybee crisis, Doug reports that bee colonies are down by two-thirds, due to a combination of migratory stress, parasitic threats, and erratic weather — especially recent floods across the U.S. Given the vital role bees play in agriculture, Doug encourages anyone with the interest and ability to consider starting a colony of their own to support pollination and food production. In his “Doug’s Opine” segment, Doug revisits his recent conversation with Julia Barton from the Organic Farmers Association (episode: "Empowering Organic Farmers: A Conversation with Julia Barton of the Organic Farmers Association"). He reflects on the challenges surrounding the “organic” label — a term that has been increasingly compromised by government red tape and industrial agriculture interests. Doug shares his strong belief that real organic farming should return to its roots — before chemical farming — and stresses the importance of knowing your farmer. As he says, if your organic food comes from a local farm, it’s far more trustworthy than products from big ag brands bearing the same label.

This week on The American Family Farmer, host Doug Stephan welcomes Julia Barton, Farmer Services Director at the Organic Farmers Association (OFA), for an in-depth look at how OFA is advocating for a healthier, more equitable future for American agriculture.Julia brings over a decade of hands-on experience supporting organic, transitional, and sustainable farmers. In her role with OFA, she works directly with farmers across the country to help them navigate certification, overcome challenges, and find success in the growing organic marketplace. In this episode, Julia and Doug dive into: As a farmer herself, Julia brings a grounded, personal perspective to the national policy conversation — and shares how her own journey with Octagon Acres, her family’s organic farm, shapes her work.Whether you're a seasoned organic grower, curious consumer, or policy advocate, this conversation will inspire and inform. 🌐 Learn more at organicfarmersassociation.org Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan www.eastleighfarm.com introduces us to Tim Gradert, Senior Tax Manager with Uncommon Farms. In this episode, Doug and Tim explore the often-overlooked power of smart tax planning in agriculture. From proactive strategies that boost profitability to overcoming unique hurdles family farmers face during tax season, Tim shares insight drawn from years of hands-on experience in ag-specific tax preparation. They dive into deductions that can make a difference—like Section 179 and bonus depreciation—and highlight the importance of year-round tax planning, accurate record keeping, and leveraging tools like AgManager® for seamless tax integration. You’ll also hear how UnCommon Farms supports farmers not just at tax time, but year-round—through education, software solutions, and personal consultation—to help ensure no opportunity is missed. Whether you're navigating asset basis, succession planning, or compliance with changing ag laws, this episode is packed with advice designed to keep your farm financially resilient and strategically prepared. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan www.eastleighfarm.com shares the news affecting small farmers in America, including a focus on President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” and how it will affect farmers. What should farmers know about his bill? Major cuts to the SNAP program, stricter qualifications for recipients, and passing costs off to the states. Next up, the continued issues of the screwworm and the problems these invasive, flesh eating pests are causing. ICYMI, a screwworm is a type of parasitic fly larva that fees on living flesh of warm blooded animals, including humans. Its name comes from the maggot’s appearance as it burrows into a wound, resembling a screw being driven into wood. Th screwworm can cause severe damage and even death if left untreated. The USDA is making plans to better prepare farmers should these pests get into their herds. Moving on, Doug shares a list of foods with the highest amounts of microplastics. They are apples and carrots (most commonly used in juice cleanses). Other foods with higher levels of microplastics include rice, pink Himalayan sea salt, sugar, tea, plant-based nuggets, fish sticks, shrimp, and water. What are farmers doing — or, what should they be doing — to minimize microplastics infiltrating their crops. Website: AmericanFamilyFarmerShow.com Social Media: @GoodDayNetworks