
The Generational Crisis That Could Destroy the Family Farm
From Barn Talk by Tork and Sawyer Whisler
May 3, 2026 · 1h 21m
About this episode
This episode features a conversation with Luke Schultz about the challenges and innovations in American family farming.
Welcome back to Barn Talk! In today’s episode, you'll get a front-row seat for a deep, honest conversation with Luke Schultz, a fifth-generation cattleman from the heart of Kansas and a seasoned ag lender at Conterra Ag. Known as the “Force of Nature,” Speaker A shares how his upbringing in the Flint Hills shaped his approach to both ranching and banking. Speaker B and Speaker C dig into everything from the evolving world of agricultural lending, to multi-generational farm transitions, to the state of the cattle market and creative ways producers are adapting in uncertain times. From stories of Mormons feeding gum to hard truths about land consolidation, succession planning, interest rates, and capitalizing on long bull runs in livestock, there’s wisdom for every listener, young or old, in or out of agriculture. Plus, you’ll hear candid thoughts on trades vs. college, the unintended effects of pop culture on rural life, and what it really takes for a farm family to thrive across generations. If you’re interested in the real stories, challenges, and innovations happening on America’s farms and ranches and want to hear it from folks who truly walk the walk this episode is for you…
People in this episode
Hosts: Tork Whisler, Sawyer Whisler
Guest: Luke Schultz
Topics covered
- agricultural lending
- multi-generational farm transitions
- cattle market
- land consolidation
- succession planning
- trades vs. college
- rural life
Keywords
- cattleman
- agriculture
- farm family
- interest rates
- capitalizing on livestock
- Mormons feeding gum
- bull runs
- pop culture effects
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Conterra Ag
Places: Kansas, Flint Hills
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