Podcasts

What Keeps a Farm Marriage Strong?

Working on the farm together and being married can present unique challenges. Josh & Emily Reinhardt share how they've prioritized teamwork, communication, setting shared goals and staying attuned to each others' needs through the demands of farm life. Their story is a reminder that strong relationships are built intentionally, one season at a time.

So… You’re Thinking About Therapy?

Beginning therapy can feel intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Rachel and special guest Tracy Howland, LCPC break down how to find a therapist, what starting therapy might look like, and suggestions for navigating insurance. Whether you’re nervous or just curious, this conversation makes the process feel doable.

Roots Remembered: Facing Memory Loss Together

Life on the farm never stops — but when a loved one starts showing signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia, everything can feel uncertain. Tune in this month as Rachel and special guest Maggie Schaver discuss strategies and support that honor both the person experiencing memory changes and those who care for them. This episode is dedicated to farming families walking through memory loss together.

Together in Grief

If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens in a virtual grief support group, this episode breaks it down—how the meetings flow, what we mean by an “open” group, and what you can expect to gain by attending. We also share practical tools for navigating grief around the holidays, including changes to normal routines, supportive rituals, and reaching out for help when you need it most.

Next-Gen Perspectives: Surveys & Stories

Inspired by their own personal experiences, 2 FFA members share what they learned through an Agriscience Fair research project on farmer mental health. This conversation offers a real, honest look at stress in farming families - and why it matters.

Farm Safety and Mental Health

Cheyenne Deerex from the University of Illinois shares insights on Farm Safety Week, the importance of agricultural health, and resources available through the Illinois Agricultural Mental Health Voucher Program.

Do It Scared

We’d be lying if we didn’t admit that sometimes, farm life can be pretty scary. In this episode, we discuss how to let fear join us on our journey without holding us back.

Stress Tips Turned Farm Tools

Learn how to turn basic stress management tips into practical tools for any farmer. *Drink more water, deep breathing, exercise, etc.

Questions from the Counselor

Use these common counseling questions to learn how to challenge yourself and approach life through different perspectives. *miracle question, etc.

Cultivating Community and Connection

Kayla, a southern Illinois farmer, shares her experiences with life on the farm, mental health, and the power of social media. She discusses how she connects with others, balances challenges, and builds resilience in agriculture. Tune in for an honest look at farming, community, and well-being.

Stressed and Blessed

In this episode, we take a look at the tough stuff AND all there is to be thankful for when it comes to family farms. *but not toxic positivity; both can exist

Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health and Men in Agriculture

In this episode of the Farm Family Resource Initiative podcast, Dr. Nick Weshinskey joins us to discuss the critical topic of mental health and the unique stigmas faced by men, particularly in the farming community. From cultural expectations to signs of emotional struggles, Dr. Nick Weshinskey provides insights on how to open meaningful conversations, support loved ones, and reframe mental health as essential self-maintenance. Tune in for strategies to foster connection and bravery in addressing mental well-being while maintaining the strength to support family and farm life.

What Exactly is “Mental Health?

Tune in to learn how mental health is much more than you think it is, and how it relates to everyone.

Supporting Farmers Through Tough Times Inside the Farm Family Resource Initiative

Join host Margo as she sits down with Karen Stallman, an Agricultural Resource Specialist with the Farm Family Resource Initiative (FFRI) at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. They discuss the unique challenges facing farmers today, from financial pressures to mental health stressors, and how FFRI is making a difference. Through a variety of programs—including a 24/7 helpline, telehealth counseling, and an advisory council of agriculture experts—FFRI offers vital support for Illinois farm families. Learn how this initiative is addressing the mental well-being of farmers and providing resources statewide.

Alcohol: Healthy Coping or Horrible Habit?

Let’s chat about substance use- the good, the bad, and the ugly. Hosted by Adrienne DeSutter

Top 5 Cringeworthy Things to Say to Someone Struggling

Bad news got ya down? Feeling extra worried about something? Does it seem like the stress is extra heavy? We’ve all been there…and we’ve all been “gifted” well-intentioned advice that left us feeling even worse than before! Here are my top 5 WORST things to say to someone who’s struggling!

The Truth About Time

Struggling with stress, and not sure what to do about it? Trying to think of ways to help someone you’re worried about? Here’s an introduction to the various mental health resources available for agriculturist.

Want to Manage your Stress? Be Kind

Continuous stress experienced by those involved in agriculture impacts mental health, but kindness is an effective tool for managing it. There are countless ways to keep your stress in check. Even small acts of kindness can significantly reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Integrate simple, intentional acts of kindness into your daily routines to foster a supportive and healthier farming community. Tune in to discover how simply being kind can improve your mental health.

Trading Monuments for Moments: Finding Joy When You Don’t Have Time To Find It

You’re Stressed. So, What’s Next?

Struggling with stress, and not sure what to do about it? Trying to think of ways to help someone you’re worried about? Here’s an introduction to the various mental health resources available for agriculturist.

An Ode to the Loved Ones; Loving someone with a mental health condition

Farming isn’t a career, it’s a lifestyle. Relationships in agriculture can look a little different, and loving someone with a mental health condition adds a bonus layer of unique rewards and challenges. Along with the triumphs come the frustrations and exhaustion. This episode will take you on a walk in the shoes of the caregiver, and introduce some basic skills to care for yourself while you’re caring for others.

Toughing It Out

What makes a farmer great? Toughness. What also gets in the way of being greater? Toughness. Listen to this quick chat on the good, the bad, and the ugly on “toughing it out.”

Living a Life Worth Bragging About

Legacy; it’s a loaded word that weighs heavily on a farmer’s mind. How do I know that what I’m doing is the right decision? Am I leaving a positive impact for my farm and my family? Let’s chat about creating a life that matters, for the people who matter, and using tomorrow’s vision to inspire today’s actions.

Therapy 101: Mythbuster Edition

Who’s supposed to see a therapist, how do I find one, and what on earth am I getting myself into!? Listen in as we discuss the secrets and stigmas surrounding therapy, and how to make what’s often an uncomfortable situation…a little less uncomfortable.

Saying “Yes” to NO

Most people grapple with the urge to overload their schedules with obligations, especially in agriculture; in this episode, we explore the art of prioritizing to preserve time and energy for what truly deserves a “yes.”

So You’re Married to a Workaholic

Determination, self-reliant, hard-working: all words to describe a successful farmer. But when does the drive to succeed turn from helpful to harmful? Join us in discussing how the nonstop lifestyle of a farmer can create stress for the entire family, and how a few simple tools can help slow the "busy!"