Jena & MP bring a unique perspective to the world of agriculture, offering a blend of humor, heart, and wisdom honed from their combined years on the farm. With a deep passion for their families, their farms, and the communities they call home, these two farmwives delve into the daily triumphs and tribulations that come from rural living. They discuss everything from the latest advancements in agriculture and the art of balancing family with farm duties to the time-honored traditions and rec ...
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Family Farm Succession: Navigating Sibling Dynamics, Land Transfer & Estate Planning ( Ep 91)
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1:04:36In this episode of Beyond the Crops, Jena and Mary Pat dive back into the important topic of succession planning with succession expert Ashlee Westerhold. They discuss what to consider when planning for the future of the farm, whether passing it down to the next generation, skipping a generation, or connecting with interested individuals outside of…
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Faith Over Fear: Focusing on What We Can Control ( Ep 90)
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45:03In this episode of Beyond the Crops, we’re tackling something that every farmer, rancher, and family faces—uncertainty. With markets, policies, weather, and world events constantly shifting, it’s easy to feel like everything is out of control. But while we can’t change the outside forces, we can control our mindset, faith, family life, routines, an…
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Harvest, Hogs & Hindsight: A Farm Couple’s Recap (Ep 89)
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57:11We’re bringing our husbands back to the podcast for a no-holds-barred conversation about the highs, lows, and lessons of the 2024 farming season. From harvest takeaways to hard-earned wisdom, we’re diving into what worked, what didn’t, and what we’re changing for next year. We also reflect on the challenges and wins of raising livestock, share our …
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It's Us Again! Post-Holiday Farm Life on Beyond the Crops - (Ep 88)
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50:21We're BACK after a much-needed break, and we're ready to tell you all about it and what's been going on behind the scenes! On this episode of Beyond The Crops we're catching you up on ALL the things. recapping holiday stomach bugs, much needed vacations, and our exciting new business ventures, as well as what to expect this year on the podcast! Kee…
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Our Testimonies and the True Meaning of Christmas (Ep 87)
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40:12In the midst of the holiday hustle, it’s easy to get swept up in the busyness and lose sight of what Christmas is truly about. In this episode, we’re pausing to refocus on the heart of the season—our Savior, Jesus Christ. Join us as we share our personal testimonies, dive into the messiness of our faith journeys, and reflect on how God has worked i…
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Jena's Health Journey and Dental Surgery Update (Ep 86)
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1:00:48Today on Beyond The Crops we are getting all the nitty gritty details of Jena's recent dental surgery and an update on her health journey. We cover everything from what led her down this path, to parasite cleanses, to cost, recovery, and more. Keep track of your family's farm journey through harvest and beyond. Get your own Grounded Journal today. …
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How We Keep The Holidays Intentional + Holiday Gift Guide! (Ep 85)
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59:10Are you ready to transform your holiday season into a time of intention, connection, and joy? In this episode, we’re diving into meaningful gift-giving ideas that go beyond the material, focusing on thoughtful presents that foster connection, support small businesses, and bring joy to both the giver and the receiver. From unique local finds to hear…
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Harvest Highlights: Highs, Lows, and Lessons from the Field (Ep 84)
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46:03Harvest season is wrapping up, and we’re sitting down to share our reflections, wins, and lessons learned from the fields. And of course our favorite field meals of the season—think crockpot ribs, homemade rye bread Rubens, and Friday night steak traditions. Plus, we reflect on our recent farm safety series and the importance of keeping these criti…
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Best Advice From Our Farm Safety Series (Ep 83)
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20:30Welcome back to Beyond the Crops. Today we want to take a moment to thank each and every one of our guests who came on during our farm safety series. We've compiled the advice from each of our interviewees to share with you today. These are quick, hitting, and impactful pieces of advice from those who experienced farm accidents firsthand. Take this…
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How to Get Through Tough Times on the Farm: Income Diversification Ways To Stay Resilient (Ep 82)
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33:05Join us for a special live episode of Beyond the Crops, recorded at Husker Harvest Days with FP Next podcast hosts Kurt Ahrens and Sarah McNaughton. In this live conversation, we dive into strategies for preparing farms for economic shifts, exploring ways to diversify operations and stay resilient in today’s evolving agricultural landscape. Our fir…
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Practical, Often Overlooked Farm Safety Tips from ER Nurse Katie Hammock (Ep 81)
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57:47Today, we’re bringing you a special interview sparked from a listener connection made in our DMs. Katie Hammock, an ER nurse and dairy farmer’s wife, reached out after tuning into our farm safety series, offering her insights as a farm safety educator. Katie has a unique perspective on ag safety from her experiences in the ER and is passionate abou…
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80. Farm Safety is More Than Just a Checklist: Why Open Conversations About Complacency, Awareness, and Community Matter
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55:11Farm safety is more than just a checklist—it’s about protecting lives and fostering a culture of awareness in our communities. In this episode, Taylor Sjogren shares her personal story of her dad’s farm accident and why it’s so important to talk openly about safety. We talk about the dangers of complacency, the need for increased awareness, and how…
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79. Miracle in the Grain Bin: Kayla Cowell Shares a Farm Accident Survival Story and Career Change
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44:19Thank you so much for tuning into our safety series so far. This week we're welcoming Kayla Cowell to Beyond The Crops as she shares the truly miraculous story of her father surviving a grain bin fall and how that was a huge factor in her pivoting her career path and choosing to come back to the family farm. Remember we launch new episodes every Tu…
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78. Navigating Post Accident Trauma: A Mother's Tale of Farm Safety
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1:03:36This week, we are bringing back our farm safety series. This is the first time that we're getting the perspective of a mom who had a child that was injured on their farm. Katie's son got his hand stuck in a feed auger. And the story is pretty incredible. She shares how sometimes like the knowledge that the farmers have of the equipment can be very …
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77. From Farm Shows to Harvest: A Busy Season Recap
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54:16In this episode of Beyond the Crops, we are taking a break from our farm safety series to catch up on some recent events and share personal updates. We discuss our experiences at the Farm Progress Show and Husker Harvest Days, including a live podcast and panel discussions. We also dive into the Farm Wives Club event organized by Kylie Epperson, em…
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76. Honoring Kyle: A Story of Grain Entrapment and Family Resilience {Farm Safety Series}
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29:23As part of National Farm Safety Week from September 15th to the 21st, we are continuing our farm safety series. This series bring on different farm families to share their real-life experiences to raise awareness about farm dangers, help other agricultural families prepare, and offer support after accidents. In this powerful and emotional episode, …
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75. Her Husbands Hand Was Caught in a Bailer {Farm Safety Series}
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49:09As part of National Farm Safety Week from September 15th to the 21st, we are continuing our farm safety series. This series bring on different farm families to share their real-life experiences to raise awareness about farm dangers, help other agricultural families prepare, and offer support after accidents. Calli Williams (Millennial Rancher on In…
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74. Surviving a Mycotill Exposure {Farm Safety Series}
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45:26We are continuing our crucial farm safety series with mother- daughter duo Emily Wilson and Amy Doherty as they share about how their dad/husband was seemingly the first person to survive a Mycotill exposure. Mycotill is a vaccine used in cattle to treat bovine respiratory disease. It works incredibly well in animals and unfortunately has severe ri…
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73. A Life-Saving Lesson from the Farm {Farm Safety Series}
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37:04We are kicking off our crucial farm safety series by diving into a harrowing real-life experience shared by Auna Koenigs from Northern Iowa. Auna opens up about a terrifying accident on her family farm that nearly cost her father his leg—and his life. Auna recounts the day her father's leg got caught in a sweep auger, and highlights the farm safety…
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72. Prioritizing Fitness: Our Journeys to Wellness and Why It Matters
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34:50In this episode of Beyond the Crops, we dive into the importance of prioritizing fitness and how our approach to health and wellness has evolved over time. Join us as we share our personal fitness journeys, from college days to the realities of parenthood and beyond. We discuss the challenges we've faced, the lessons we've learned, and the reasons …
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71. From the Farm To California and Everything In Between: An End of Summer Recap
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38:39We are back together again after what feels like ages! In this episode of Beyond the Crops, we’re catching up on all the life that’s happened in just a few short weeks—like MP’s spontaneous and wild trip to California, complete with cybersecurity issues, winding mountain roads, the grossest hotel you can imagine, and we even debate how to pronounce…
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70. Farm Safety: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Family and Prevent Accidents on Your Farm
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51:27
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51:27In this powerful episode we are talking with rural firefighter and paramedic Mike Bailey to tackle one of agriculture's most critical and often overlooked issues: farm safety. With agriculture ranking among the most dangerous industries in the U.S., especially for families raising children on the farm, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone …
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69. From Wife Swap to Farm Succession: A Fun Q&A with Our Husbands, Josh and Levi
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48:18In this episode we are bringing on the men and answering your burning questions that came in from Instagram. Tune in as we dive into a variety of topics, from the quirky concept of a "wife swap" to how Josh and Levi really feel when it comes to transition planning in farming. Our husbands share their insights on navigating the challenges of success…
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68. Mastering Farm Succession: Expert Tips For Kind and Clear Communication, Strong Farm Family Relationships, and Smooth Transitions with Elaine Froese
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1:16:06In this episode of Beyond the Crops, we're diving into the critical topic of farm succession planning. Passing down the farm is more than just a business transaction; it's about preserving a legacy and ensuring the family's future. For this episode we've brought on Elaine Froese, a certified farm family coach, mediator and farm advisor who empowers…
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67. Summer Farm Life Updates, Iced Coffee Hacks, and Time Away From the Farm
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41:07This week we take a break from interviews to catch up on our personal adventures and give you the latest updates from our farms. We talk about summer trips and how to get off the farm (it's totally worth it). We also dive into the current state of our crops. Tasseling, irrigation, and the challenges posed by unpredictable weather. Tune in for an en…
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66. Musings From a Farm Matriarch: Marilyn Backman on Building Business, Diversifying Income, and Growing Relationships
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55:39
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55:39Join us for this inspiring interview episode with Marilyn Backman, entrepreneur, mother, and farm matriarch extraordinaire. We had a great conversation about building businesses and diversifying income, while growing relationships and serving your customers well. Marilyn has raised 4 boys along with her husband on their family farm in Minnesota. Sh…
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65. Parenting in a Tech-Obsessed World: Setting Boundaries and Raising Resilient Kids with Jen Stutzman
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59:39In this episode of Beyond the Crops we are navigating the challenges of raising children in a technology-driven world with our special guest Jen Stutzman, who is known for her insightful parenting approach and emphasis on the importance of setting boundaries with technology. Jen provides practical advice on encouraging kids to embrace boredom, fost…
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Join us for a special 4th of July episode of Beyond The Crops! This week, we're celebrating the holiday with some fun farming history and a good old crop update. We'll take you back in time to discover where the saying of "knee-high by the 4th of July" comes from, other farming practices, and we'll even share some personal stories from our own chil…
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63. Planting Seeds of Influence: Intentionally Telling Your Story, Leveraging Social Media, and Monetizing Your Skills with Noah Young
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53:31In this episode, we sit down with Noah Young to uncover the secrets of planting seeds of influence in the digital world. Join us as Noah shares his insights on the power of intentional storytelling, strategic use of social media, and effective ways to monetize your unique skills. Whether you're an aspiring influencer, entrepreneur, or simply lookin…
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62. Understanding Food Dyes: Effects, Safety, and Alternatives
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46:39
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46:39In this episode of Beyond the Crops, we are diving into a topic that's sparked a lot of interest on our social media platforms—artificial food dyes. We discuss our personal experiences, the impact of these dyes on our children, and the scientific research behind the effects of artificial food dyes on health and behavior. Thrive market finds: Find J…
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61. Evolution Of The Heartland: Celebrating Agriculture and Rural Life
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50:16The quality of life we enjoy living rurally is something that is difficult to put into words, but rather it must be experienced. This week we brought Shelly Greving on the podcast to highlight her brainchild, Evolution of the Heartland, a movement highlighting how rural America is changing. Tune in to this week’s episode to hear how Evolution of th…
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60. Securing Your Family's Future: Effective Farm Succession Strategies with Brooke Didier Starks
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1:11:10This week we’re excited to kick off a new series: On Farm Succession Planning. We have been wanting to lean into this topic since we started podcasting and this week we’re brining you an interview from Brooke Didier Starks, founder and owner of Legacy Legal. Brooke is an Estate Planning Attorney who caters to farm families and entrepreneurs.She str…
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59. Faith, Family, and Conviction: Our Bold Take on Harrison Butker’s Viral Speech
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33:38Welcome back to another episode of Beyond the Crops! This week we are diving into a hot topic that’s been sparking debates online: Harrison Butker’s controversial commencement speech. We unpack the polarized reactions, especially around his comments to women about prioritizing marriage and family, a perspective rooted in his Catholic faith. Connect…
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58. Strategies For Finding Motivation and Overcoming Burnout
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32:26We are back together and ready to dive into this episode focusing on finding motivation and overcoming burnout. But first, we have to celebrate out podcast's ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY! Congratulations to us and a huge THANK YOU to you for listening and supporting Beyond The Crops. In this episode discover how we manage burnout, handle the ebb and flow o…
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57. Ideas for Being Involved on the Farm When You Don't Know Where You Fit.
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37:44MP & Josh give updates on planting season and some early-season scouting tips. Right now is a crucial time for scouting on the farm and making decisions for your crop. Connect with us outside of the podcast @jenaochsner and @marypat.sass @beyondthecrops_By Mary Pat Sass + Jena Ochsner
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56. Overwhelmed with Trying to Live a Less Toxic Life? SAME. Simple Steps to Start a Journey to a Healthier You.
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35:01Part 2 of our two part interview with Keri Anania, Owner & PA-C at Nebraska Functional Medicine. In this episode we talk about where to start with functional medicine as a mother for your kids. We talk about practical steps to take mitigate stress on our bodies, start feeling better and live a happy healthier life. Nebraska Functional Medicine- Ker…
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55. How Functional Medicine is a Piece of the Puzzle for Infertility, Hormones, Mental Health, Gut Health and more.
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39:59Part 1 of our two part interview with Keri Anania, Owner & PA-C at Nebraska Functional Medicine. In this episode we talk about what functional medicine is and how it connects to fertility, hormones, gut heath, MTHFR and more. Keri shares where you can start with functional medicine and listening to your body. Nebraska Functional Medicine- Keri’s Pr…
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54. Grain Marketing for Dummies: how to hedge risk, play in the futures market, and create a basic marketing plan
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43:09Ever feel like you’re hearing a foreign language when people are talking about the grain markets? Well, same. Brittany Wondercheck joins us today to break down all things grain marketing and helps us grasp some foundational grain marketing tips! Check out Brittany’s blog and find her Grain Marketing 101 and 201 courses here: http://farmgirlnextdoor…
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53. Mental Mindset As A Long Game- Mental Health Tools and Strategies
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38:47Today we are talking about how we work on our mental mindset, how it's a long game, and some of the different strategies we use to heal and maintain our mental health. This is especially timely going into a season where mental mindset has been a challenge for both of us in the past. Fried Ice Cream Bars recipe 5 Minute Journal Our Daily Bread Devot…
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52. Permission to invest in YOU-Prioritizing Personal Growth When Saying Yes to You Feels Challenging
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50:17Kylie Epperson joins us this week as the first ever repeat guest on Beyond the Crops! The three of us are very passionate about encouraging women to find their roles and step into who YOU are meant to be on your farm, in your family, in life in general. We share all the ways we have invested in ourselves through retreats, online courses, etc. Wheth…
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51. Tillage For Dummies and Pre-Planting Encouragement
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43:48Join us as we welcome our husbands back to the podcast. Today we're learning more about different tillage types and why we do them in words WE can understand! We also leave you with some encouragement going into the busy planting season. Link to the heated lunchbox Josh uses. The “salty water” we couldn’t stop talking about is our favorite electrol…
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50. How Functional Medicine Healed Chronic Migraines and Lyme Disease
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52:52Welcome back to Beyond the Crops, on this episode we’re starting a new series, Backroad Real Talk, where we explore more personal topics we care about. This week we’re sharing our experiences with functional medicine. Today Jena is sharing the health journey that she's been on and how she finally got my migraines under control after TWELVE years of…
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49. Planting Prep: How We're Physically and Mentally Preparing for the Most Important Pass of the Season.
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41:05Planting is the most important pass of the season. It’s the only time the farmer gets to play offense and what happens during planting has a direct impact on yield and profitability. It is a BIG deal and it puts our farmers (and us as wives) under a LOT of stress. Tune in to hear HOW and WHY we are diligently preparing for this important season. Th…
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48. Celebrating National Ag Day, Daylight Savings Drama, + a Looming Tik Tok Ban
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27:56It’s not secret that Daylight Savings Time absolutely sucks. BUT did you know that there is scientific proof that this hour shift in time has detrimental effects on our mental and physical health and even causes deaths every year?! Tune in to hear the history behind DST and WHY it is time for the clock to run out on DST. Is the clock running out on…
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47. Why We Don't Have Health Insurance: All About Christian Healthcare Ministries
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36:54We're excited to finally bring you a highly requested episode from Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), a faith-based healthcare cost-sharing ministry. CHM operates on the principle of Christians helping fellow Christians with their medical bills. They offer various programs tailored to different needs and budgets, providing an alternative to tra…
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46. Dicamba, Online Land Auctions, and "Sustainable" Energy
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21:40Levi joined Jena for a new series we are bringing to the podcast called Farmer Hot Takes! Hear Jena and Levi’s HOT TAKES on dicamba, online land auctions, and “sustainable energy.” Remember that these are just our opinions on these topics and it’s ok if your opinion is different from ours! There is a lot happening in the world and Levi admits that …
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45. BEEF, It's What's For Dinner (Part 2)
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43:23We’ve been over all of the cuts of beef AND how to navigate a cut card. NOW it’s time to go over how to COOK all the different cuts of beef! Shop premium dry aged beef from Jena and Levi’s farm here: Double O Farms Use code BEYONDTHECROPS for a discount! Cheesesteak Style Sloppy Joes The Infamous Dry Ranch Mix - Double O Farms Connect with us outsi…
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44. Re-thinking Nitrogen- How Microbes Could Change the Future of Ag
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41:08Today’s episode is brought to you by Pivot Bio. Visit Pivot Bio to get a limited time deal on Pivot Bio PROVEN 40 On-Seed, named one of TIME’s Best Inventions! If you’re intrigued be sure to check out some YouTube videos of how Pivot Bio PROVEN40 worked on Jena and Levi’s farm: How we increased yield AND applied less Nitrogen per acre The results a…
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Hot Takes in Ag - Banks combating climate change?? We’re diving into the Net Zero Banking Alliance today. We’ll go through what it is, what we learned from our research, and how it could impact agriculture in the future. Subscribe to Magnetic Ag here: Home Connect with us outside of the podcast @jenaochsner and @marypat.sass @beyondthecrops_…
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Join us as Jena shares her expertise on all things BEEF! You’ll leave this episode feeling hungry, but also more confident to have conversations with your custom butcher. Jena also shares knowledge of how to cook certain beef cuts. We hope you enjoy! Shop Double O Beef Here! Connect with us outside of the podcast @jenaochsner and @marypat.sass @…
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