Episode 19 - Building Communication & Community in Agriculture with Ashley Nicolls
This episode is sponsored by our friends at @agproworkwear (Advertisement at 1:58). Be sure to check them out at http://www.agproworkwear.com
In this episode, Bridgette and Lauren sit down with Ashley Nicolls, founder of Reach Agriculture Strategies, to explore how better communication and organizational health can transform farms and rural life.
Ashley shares how his concept of “low-stress people handling”—inspired by low-stress livestock handling—helps reduce turnover, improve workplace culture, and support mental health in agriculture. From tackling the loneliness epidemic to guiding families through succession planning, he emphasizes that strong relationships and clear communication are just as vital as financial planning.
The conversation also touches on men’s mental health in ag, building community through simple gatherings, and why effective teamwork benefits both people and livestock.
Takeaway: Success in agriculture isn’t just about running it like a business—it’s about recognizing that it is a business, powered by people who thrive when communication and connection come first
Shifting Gears Segment:
We also discuss the quote: “The history of the land is etched in the faces of the farmers who till it.” We explore how joy, pride, hardship, and generational legacy leave visible marks—just like the rings of a tree.
Fun Wrap-Up:
If we could take any job for one month, Bridgette would be Minnie Mouse at Disney World, Lauren dreams of working on a research vessel, and Ashley would pack on horses into the mountains.
Connect with Ashley:
https://reachag.ca/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-nicholls-08a003134/
📸 Instagram: @reachagstrategies
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/theruralwell
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/theruralwell
Twitter -https://x.com/theruralwell
TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@theruralwell
Email: info [at] theruralwell.com
