Farm Family Harmony Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Jeremy Allen, a funeral director and grief educator, for an honest conversation about grief, loss, and how we show up for one another. Jeremy shares a grounded perspective on supporting people through difficult moments, especially in farming communities where emotions are often left unspoken. Together, we explore the difference between being prepared and being ready, and why grief isn't always about death. We discuss what to say (and what not to say), and how simply being present can make a lasting impact. If you've ever felt unsure how to support someone through loss — or how to face it yourself — this episode is for you. "People don't need you to have the perfect words, they just need to know you're willing to stay." - Jeremy Allen Resources Mentioned During This Episode Death Ed - Grief and Loss Education Brene Brown - The Power of Vulnerability Dr. Alan Wolfelt - Mourning & Healing The Emotion Wheel Bright Track Consulting About Our Guest Jeremy Allen is a licensed funeral director, embalmer, and manager of Gregory's Funeral Home in Provost, Alberta, but his work reaches far beyond the walls of a funeral home. Jeremy is a passionate advocate for transforming the way we understand death, grief, and the healing power of mourning. Contact Jeremy Visit the Dead Ed. Website Follow Jeremy on Instagram Follow Jeremy on Facebook Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. Visit the podcast website SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - explore Farm Transition Coaching MEMBERSHIP - become a Farm Family Transition Member FREE STUFF - downloadable tools for your farm transition CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here Farm Family Coach Social Media Links Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube TikTok Timestamps 00:30 - Introduction to Jeremy Allen and the focus on grief in farming communities 02:37 - Jeremy's background in funeral service and grief education 03:39 - The difference between being involved in funerals and speaking about grief 08:30 - Personal story of grief and the importance of having documents in order 11:09 - Generational perceptions of emotion and the evolution toward emotional intelligence 16:30 - The significance of meaningful funeral rituals and community celebrations 20:37 - How relationships shape grief and legacy in farm families 23:33 - Celebrating the life of Dorothy and the power of storytelling in funerals 28:46 - Embracing vulnerability for deeper connections and trust 31:32 - How to normalize emotions and foster honest dialogue in families 37:22 - The significance of kindness and acknowledgment in funeral and grief contexts 41:59 - Contrasting emotions in grief and how they coexist simultaneously 49:07 - The importance of showing up and being present in loss 51:04 - Practical tools for initiating honest conversations and deepening relationships 52:43 - Jeremy's resources and how to connect online

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Merle Massie, executive director of the Do More Ag Foundation, for an honest and timely conversation about mental health in agriculture and the power of community to make a difference. Merle shares why creating a culture of well-being in farming communities matters so deeply, and how regular people in regular rural places can help support one another through stress, struggle, and mental illness. From naming what's heavy in the spring season to recognizing the warning signs of overwhelm, this discussion highlights practical ways to care for both yourself and the people around you. Together, we talk about why listening matters, how stigma still affects help-seeking in agriculture, and why small actions — like checking in, creating space, and asking better questions — can have a life-changing impact. "The most important thing that you already have is your ability to listen — to create space for someone and be with them." — Dr. Merle Massie In this episode, we discuss: The importance of cultivating a culture of well-being rooted in community and shared values. How rural culture influences mental health and the need for ag-specific mental health resources. Recognizing and addressing signs of overwhelm, exhaustion, and mental health struggles in farmers. Key tools like self-check-in questionnaires and conversation starters (Talk, Ask, Listen) to promote open dialogue. The impact of farm transition challenges and intergenerational communication on mental wellness. Practical self-care activities and creating quiet, reflective spaces (e.g., labyrinths, journaling). The critical connection between physical health, substance use, and mental health, including the risks of self-medicating. How rural communities can step up for mental health, including retreats and men's sheds initiatives. Prioritizing one's own well-being with the power of saying "not right now" and managing energy levels. The significance of storytelling, journaling, and preserving farm history for mental resilience. Remember, fostering open conversations, prioritizing personal well-being, and building community are key to resilient farm families. Small daily acts—listening, sharing stories, and taking care of yourself—can make a significant difference. Resources Mentioned During This Episode Do More Ag Foundation "Hey, Are We Okay?" Podcast Crisis Contacts & Resources Kylie Stokes' Farm-specific Journals Navigate Journal by Alison Weaver Dr. Rosenberg's Nonviolent Communication Book Lauren Van Ewyk- National Farmers Mental Health Alliance Newfoundland Farm Mental Health Program About Our Guest Merle Massie is a farmer, award-winning author, TEDx storyteller, and the Executive Director of The Do More Agriculture Foundation, which champions and cultivates a culture of mental wellbeing across Canadian agriculture. Email Dr. Merle Massie Follow Merle on LinkedIn Follow Merle on Twitter Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. Visit the podcast website SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - explore Farm Transition Coaching MEMBERSHIP - become a Farm Family Transition Member FREE STUFF - downloadable tools for your farm transition CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here Farm Family Coach Social Media Links Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube TikTok Timestamps 00:30 - Welcome and introduction to the episode 02:45 - The mission of Do More Ag and the importance of culture 05:40 - Addressing mental health stigma and community support initiatives 10:52 - Recognizing stress signals in farming seasons and farm safety concerns 13:46 - Navigating farm transition challenges and intergenerational communication 16:46 - The role of sleep, nutrition, and self-care in farmer well-being 19:15 - Tools for mental health check-ins: self-assessment and conversation starters 21:48 - The link between alcohol, self-medication, and mental health risks 22:46 - Building resilience through storytelling, journaling, and social connection 25:50 - Opportunities for fun and community bonding on farms 27:36 - Practical tips for mental wellness: quiet spaces, creative outlets, and boundaries 33:31 - Encouragement for young farmers and the power of saying "not right now" 37:57 - The importance of self-care as a foundation for effective leadership and farm success 41:04 - Honoring farm stories and the long-term benefits of journaling 43:19 - Reflecting on community impact, recognition, and collective resilience 44:28 - Key takeaway: Every individual's ability to make a difference starts with listening 45:37 - Closing remarks: how to share this message and foster caring farm communities

In this episode, Elaine sits down with Jenny Weg, a young farm mom from Iowa, for an honest conversation about money, family, and preparing the next generation well. Jenny shares how she and her husband are thinking intentionally about finances while raising three young daughters on the farm. From paying kids for the work they contribute, to saving early and planning for future opportunities, this discussion highlights practical ways farm families can build financial strength over time. Together, Elaine and Jenny talk about why money conversations matter, how expectations around the farm can create tension if they're never discussed, and why thoughtful planning today can make life easier for the next generation tomorrow. "We really tried to tackle all of our personal debt to get all of that out of the way. And now that farming has come into our lives, we realize there's going to be debt that we have to carry with that. But just doing it in a very smart and strategic way so that we don't overextend ourselves and so that we can be there to prepare not only ourselves, but the next generation, and set them up properly for when it's time for them to take over." - Jenny Weg In this episode, they discuss: Why teaching kids about money early can build responsibility and confidence. Paying farm kids for their work and saving for their future. Long-term thinking when it comes to farm succession and family wealth. When it's wise to bring in a financial planner. Setting timelines and goals for transition conversations. Balancing motherhood, farm work, and family priorities. Navigating expectations and avoiding entitlement conflicts in farm families. Simple ways to manage household finances and stay focused on long-term goals. This episode is especially helpful for young farm families who want to be proactive about money, communication, and creating opportunities for the next generation. Resources Mentioned During This Episode The Wealthy Barber by David Chilton Jenny Weg on Instagram - Faithful Farming Family Jenny Weg on Facebook Farm Credit Services Iowa State University Beginning Farmers Conference About Our Guest Jenny Weg is a fourth-generation farmer and farm finance mom behind The Faithful Farming Family. She helps families build generational wealth by teaching them how to legally and strategically pay their kids through the family business. Through faith, farming, and practical financial strategy, she's on a mission to help parents secure their future — and their kids'. Connect with Jenny: Contact Jenny Follow Jenny on Instagram Follow Jenny on Facebook Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. Visit the podcast website SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - explore Farm Transition Coaching MEMBERSHIP - become a Farm Family Transition Member FREE STUFF - downloadable tools for your farm transition CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here Farm Family Coach Social Media Links Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube TikTok Timestamps 00:30 - Welcome and episode overview: addressing entitlement and financial planning in farm families 02:52 - Jenny's background and how faith influences her farm and family approach 03:57 - The importance of conservative financial practices in farm succession planning 04:45 - The benefits of paying children for farm help and building generational wealth 06:15 - Using tax-advantaged accounts like Roth IRAs for farm kids 07:08 - The significance of starting financial education early for the next generation 08:35 - Addressing entitlement and fairness issues within farm families 09:51 - Conversations with aging parents about farm transition and legacy planning 12:27 - The importance of planning ahead and consulting a financial advisor early 13:11 - The complexity of family relationships and managing expectations across relatives 14:38 - Legitimacy of paying children legally and ethically for farm work 16:21 - Practical household management: budgeting and living conservatively 17:23 - Building readiness for opportunities like share purchases or farm buyouts 18:38 - The importance of clear communication and family involvement in decisions 21:15 - Using simple, strategic investments to grow farm family wealth over time 24:08 - Balancing family roles and farm responsibilities—staying resilient and present 27:15 - Common challenges farm women face: feelings of undervaluation and the importance of communication 29:06 - The role of family relationships over business conflicts and setting shared priorities 29:47 - Next steps: planning, patience, and building cash reserves for future opportunities 30:50 - How to connect with Jenny on social media for more farm family finance tips

In this episode, I sit down with dairy farmer Denise Angst for an honest and encouraging conversation about navigating farm transition in real time — while life, loss, and change are all happening at once. Together, we explore how clarity, communication, and respect across generations can turn uncertainty into opportunity. We talk about why starting with simple family meetings matters, how fairness looks different than equality, and what it takes for parents to let go while still providing stability and support. Denise also reflects on her own personal growth journey, the courage it takes to ask hard questions early, and why investing in yourself as a farm woman strengthens the entire family business. If you're wondering how to begin succession conversations, how to support multiple children with different paths, or how to move forward without having everything perfectly figured out, this episode offers a hopeful, practical look at what's possible — one conversation at a time. "Different is not wrong. It's just different. The younger generation needs to respect the older generation, and we need to respect the younger generation. Let them talk about their ideas." – Denise Angst Resources Mentioned During This Episode Wellington County Transition Planning Resources: https://www.wellington.ca/business-development/environment-agriculture/transition-planning Empowe-HER-ed Book Order Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScXeW38zQC6WXvtoTglv009a9_pTS8vrtgGcxtEQGdooLKz5g/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=102144042538019289024 Retreat Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeMY86Wg0SDWMRuJp1BWLxtk-nsvIs-iPuEhUO4XMHpIAeToQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=102144042538019289024 Linktree for all Connections: https://linktr.ee/denisemyjourney About Our Guest Denise Angst is a dairy farm partner who built a dairy farm business with her husband after immigrating from Switzerland in 1997. She is a proud mother of three grown children — two sons and a daughter — and values the journey of raising her family while remaining deeply rooted in the community. Along the way, Denise drove a school bus for 15 years and volunteered in various roles, always giving back where she could. Over the past nine years, her commitment to personal growth has led her to become a first-time author, contributing a published chapter about how she found the strength to put herself first, and she is now preparing to host her third women's retreat. Recently, Denise transitioned into an office administration role, drawing on decades of farm office experience. By stepping off the farm's daily operations, she is intentionally creating space for the next generation to take on leadership and office responsibilities, while continuing to guide and support the farm's succession with confidence and strength. Contact Denise Follow Denise on Facebook Follow Denise on Instagram Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. Visit the podcast website SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - explore Farm Transition Coaching MEMBERSHIP - become a Farm Family Transition Member FREE STUFF - downloadable tools for your farm transition CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here Farm Family Coach Social Media Links Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube TikTok Timestamps 0:00:30 - Intro & how Denise met Elaine/background 0:03:05 - Big family & housing changes (boys move out, parents move to town, daughter in basement) 0:05:38 - Training Lucas as successor, giving him management responsibility 0:05:44 - Paying kids for farm work, ideas of fairness vs equal 0:11:11 - New Zealand idea, Peter's surgery, Denise's mom passing, Denise's personal growth 0:14:07 - Starting family meetings, updating the will, using Elaine's workshop tools 0:19:16 - Patrick's role, land purchase, non‑dairy path & custom farming options 0:20:37 - Sweat equity, Lucas tracking all hours, housing/heat as part of compensation 0:22:20 - Accountant meeting, will changes, protecting Lucas if parents die suddenly 0:22:57 - Parents' income/retirement planning, Denise's off‑farm job, risk & cash flow 0:26:44 - Next‑step planning: documenting needs for Lucas and for Peter & Denise 0:29:08 - Cohabitation agreement for Lucas's girlfriend as a risk‑management tool 0:32:09 - Why other families avoid succession talks (fear, hard conversations) 0:34:13 - Peter's backstory, losing his dad at 17, being ready to hand over management 0:35:44 - Mutual respect between generations; recognizing different strengths 0:38:24 - Questions from "Your Farm, Your Future" (excitement, emotions, success, timing) 0:39:59 - What "good management" means when roles are split (barn vs office) 0:41:03 - Shifting responsibilities, moving bookkeeping to AgExpert Online 0:42:33 - Knowing what they own, investments, and the "gift" they want to give their kids 0:44:27 - Cleaning out the farmhouse, kids choosing sentimental items 0:46:55 - Message to farm women: self‑care, personal growth, and resilience 0:48:23 - Closing: this is a "happy" succession story that's still unfolding

In this episode, I sit down with executive coach and author Cathy Carroll for a heartfelt and eye-opening conversation about one of the most overlooked challenges in farm families: navigating the tension between love and logic. Cathy, founder of Legacy Onward and author of Hug of War, shares how families can move beyond black-and-white thinking and start seeing conflict not as something to avoid but something to manage. Together, we explore the concept of polarities: two opposing but equally valuable truths, like tradition and innovation, control and trust, or fairness and equality. We talk about why trying to "solve" these tensions often backfires, and how learning to embrace both sides can transform your family's conversations, decisions, and leadership. Cathy also shares tools to help you create healthier dynamics, lead with clarity, and make space for both your heart and your head. If your family feels stuck between generations, mindsets, or values, this episode will give you a powerful new lens—and the language to move forward together. "In a family business, you're not choosing between right or wrong; you're holding two right answers at the same time. The challenge is not to solve the tension, but to manage it so you get the best of both worlds." — Cathy Carroll, MBA, MCC Resources Mentioned During This Episode Free Family Business Polarity Assessment https://www.legacyonward.com/assessment manage common polarities in a family business About Our Guest Cathy learned about family business leadership the best way you can – by leading her family business. After a twenty-year corporate career, she left United Airlines to lead her father's business and instantly recognized a difference between leadership in a family business vs leadership in a large corporation. Founder and President of Legacy Onward, Inc., Cathy Carroll is an internationally recognized family business leadership coach, speaker, and author of "Hug of War: How to Lead a Family Business With both Love and Logic." She also trains advisors serving family enterprises on the fundamentals of polarity thinking. Cathy earned certificates in both Leadership Coaching and Executive Facilitation at Georgetown University, an MBA at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and a BA at Boston College. She is also a Master Certified Coach (MCC) in the ICF. An active member of the community, Cathy currently serves as Chair of the Board of the Purposeful Planning Institute and co-founder & Treasurer of A Leg To Stand On. Contact Cathy Visit the Legacy Onward website Follow Cathy on LinkedIn Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. Visit the podcast website SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - explore Farm Transition Coaching MEMBERSHIP - become a Farm Family Transition Member FREE STUFF - downloadable tools for your farm transition CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here Farm Family Coach Social Media Links Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube TikTok Timestamps 0:00:00 — Introduction to the podcast, Cathy Carroll's background, and the purpose of the episode. 0:07:15 — Managing the "equal vs fair" polarity in family business compensation. 0:12:41 — The polarity between business mindset (logic/profit) and family mindset (love/fairness). 0:14:38 — Domain crossover: balancing family and business relationships in decision-making. 0:16:59 — Shadow influencers: how people without formal authority impact family business outcomes. 0:17:54 — Tradition vs. innovation polarity within generational family businesses. 0:22:48 — Emotional vs. Rational polarity in business decisions. 0:24:12 — Reveal vs. Conceal: transparency and privacy in family wealth and information sharing. 0:29:38 — Privileges vs. Responsibilities polarity, and the risks of imbalance. 0:34:09 — Investing in the business vs. harvesting profits for family use. 0:38:33 — Task conflict vs. Relationship conflict and their roles in farm family businesses. 0:42:40 — Family first vs. business first: balancing needs for long-term sustainability. 0:44:48 — How to shift from "either/or" thinking to managing polarities for family business success.

In this episode, I sit down with Kevin Hegedus, Certified Financial Planner and founding partner of PWM Private Wealth Counsel, for a practical conversation about how to align vision with siblings and/or spouses when there's lots of disagreement. Kevin brings years of experience helping farm owners and families sort through the financial intricacies and reach retirement confidently. Together, we explore misalignment between spouses' vision for retirement and transition timing, and the value of early planning and using tools for transition. We discuss the 3 key farm transition snapshot points; the difference between equal vs. fair inheritance; and the importance of family meetings, celebrations, and communication. Kevin also brings valuable insight into contingency planning and long-term care for aging farmers. If you or someone you know is struggling to find alignment with their farm spouse or siblings, this episode is for you. "It boils down to having those early [planning] conversations. None of us are going to be here forever, so how do we make sure that what we worked so hard for transfers to the next generation properly." - Kevin Hegedus, PWM Private Wealth Counsel Resources Mentioned During This Episode PWM Private Wealth website: https://www.pwmprivatewealth.com financial planning, retirement, and succession resources Money Sense Radio Show: https://www.pwmprivatewealth.com/radio weekly insights on planning, tax, and retirement About Our Guest Kevin Hegedus is the Founder and Managing Partner of PWM Private Wealth Counsel in Saskatchewan. A Certified Financial Planner and Registered Portfolio Manager, Kevin has more than 25 years of experience guiding families, business owners, and farm operators through complex financial decisions. He specializes in connecting investment, tax, and estate planning strategies to help clients achieve clarity and confidence. Kevin is also the long-time host of the Money Sense radio show and a regular speaker on topics such as retirement income planning, succession, and intergenerational wealth. Contact Kevin Visit PWM Private Wealth Counsel's Website Follow Kevin on LinkedIn Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. Visit the podcast website SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - explore Farm Transition Coaching MEMBERSHIP - become a Farm Family Transition Member FREE STUFF - downloadable tools for your farm transition CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here Farm Family Coach Social Media Links Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube TikTok Timestamps 0:00:36 — Introduction & purpose of the podcast (alignment in farm family vision). 0:03:18 — Identity and challenges of farm business owners. 0:04:26 — Misalignment between spouses' vision for retirement and transition timing. 0:06:57 — Three key farm transition snapshot points: income streams, housing, fairness. 0:08:36 — Scenarios for retiree income and transition, selling equipment, rental of land. 0:12:58 — Financial transparency, farm women, and discovering hidden wealth. 0:13:49 — Managing sibling disagreement and succession, splitting the farm. 0:16:53 — Equal vs. fair inheritance, the role of insurance for fairness. 0:19:01 — The value of early planning and tools for transition. 0:21:26 — Building personal wealth, tax-free savings, and retirement income. 0:23:22 — Fee structure for financial advisors and value proposition. 0:25:08 — Historical reasons for tax avoidance mentality in farming. 0:27:25 — Income-splitting, tax strategies for retirement, the importance of financial planning. 0:29:57 — Income challenges for the next generation of farmers, debt options. 0:32:05 — Open family discussions for smoother transition and succession. 0:34:18 — The importance of family meetings, celebrations, and communication. 0:35:33 — Contingency planning for aging farmers and long-term care. 0:36:39 — Advocating for women's roles in planning and independence. 0:37:53 — The "poison pill" in farm succession and legal protections. 0:39:43 — Final advice: have open conversations about future planning, income, and fairness.

In this episode, I talk about what it really means to take back control of your future, especially if you're feeling stuck, micromanaged, or unheard in your family farm transition. I explore why so many farmers find themselves frustrated and uncertain, waiting for others to make decisions that deeply affect their future. From micromanaging parents to unspoken fears about letting go, I unpack the root causes of these tensions and the mindset shifts needed to move forward. I also share how curiosity, courage, and communication can turn conflict into clarity, and why it's time to stop accepting bad behavior, start setting boundaries, and make this winter the season you finally take action. If you've ever thought, "Things can't keep going like this," this episode will help you see that progress starts with you — one honest conversation, one clear boundary, and one next step at a time. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist RESOURCES - download for FREE CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches Timestamps 0:00:30 - Introduction and discussion about harvest season and Christmas 0:08:09 - Addressing micromanagement and family dynamics in farming 0:16:53 - Strategies for having difficult conversations and planning for the future 0:19:01 - Urgency of making changes and managing time effectively

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. David M. Kohl, Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Finance and Small Business Management, for a conversation about what it really takes for young farmers to build strong, lasting farm businesses. We discuss why transition is not just a handoff but a transformative process that requires transparency, honest financial assessments, and the courage to face tough realities head-on. Dr. Kohl explains why starting with a clear resource assessment matters, how cash flow planning shapes long-term success, and why written goals act as a compass when the road gets messy. This episode offers young farmers, founders, and successors alike practical wisdom, fresh perspective, and encouragement to move from uncertainty to clarity — and to see transition not as a burden, but as an opportunity to strengthen both the farm and the family behind it. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Dr. David M. Kohl Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist RESOURCES - download for FREE CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches Timestamps 0:04:40 - Discussion on farm succession 0:05:30 - Resource assessment for family business transition 0:06:55 - Importance of understanding true profitability through accrual adjustments 0:11:24 - Advice on debt servicing and working with lenders 0:14:59 - Land buying strategies for young farmers 0:18:29 - Importance of goal setting and using a facilitator 0:22:16 - Skill assessment and developing mini business plans 0:24:17 - Warren Buffett's advice on behavioral success 0:28:35 - Discussing family living arrangements and budgets 0:33:08 - The five key points for successful farm transition

In this episode, I sit down with Alyssa Brown, CPA, farm family coach, and fifth-generation farmer, for a frank conversation about one of the toughest topics in transition: compensation. We explore why pay on the family farm is about more than numbers, and how unspoken expectations, sacrifices, and values shape the way money flows. Alyssa shares how to uncover the full picture of compensation, from salary to hidden benefits, and why defining family living needs is key to creating fairness. Together, we discuss how couples can get on the same page before approaching the founders, why "suffering for the sake of suffering" creates resentment, and how role clarity and financial transparency help families avoid conflict and mistrust. If you've ever wondered whether you're being fairly compensated or struggled to start that conversation, this episode offers practical tools, financial insights, and coaching wisdom to help your family move toward clarity and respect. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Alyssa Brown Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist RESOURCES - download for FREE CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches Timestamps 0:01:45 - Discussion on compensation conflicts and information breakdown 0:03:48 - Comparing farm hand salaries and understanding total compensation 0:07:09 - Impact of spouse's financial approach on farm compensation 0:14:16 - Addressing the myth of "suffering for the sake of suffering" 0:18:13 - Importance of having uninterrupted, judgment-free family financial conversations 0:25:39 - Defining roles and skills as part of compensation discussion 0:29:33 - Tools and resources for compensation planning

In this episode, I sit down with Greg Barnsdale, Certified Financial Planner, Licensed Funeral Director, and author of Do Not Ignore Your Mortality, for a heartfelt conversation about one of life's toughest (but most important) topics: planning for death. We talk about the emotional and financial consequences of avoiding end-of-life planning and why leaning into conversations about wills, funerals, and legacy now can bring clarity, reduce stress, and strengthen relationships later. Greg shares personal stories, including his own shocking brain tumor diagnosis, and insights from decades in both funeral homes and financial offices. Together, we explore how to approach mortality with honesty, courage, and even a little humor, so that farm families can age with less fear and more intention. If you've been putting off those tough conversations or struggling to get your family on board, this episode is a loving nudge to take the next step. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Greg Barnsdale Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist RESOURCES - download for FREE CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches Timestamps 0:02:03 - Greg's background in the funeral industry0:03:11 - Greg's motivation for writing the book0:05:35 - Discussion on preventing family hallway huddles0:12:43 - Why people avoid creating wills0:22:54 - Superstitions about talking about death0:23:38 - Funeral budgeting and changing funeral traditions0:25:07 - Organ donation and healthcare directives0:27:48 - Strategies for planning when family is resistant0:31:59 - How to find Greg and his resources (website)

In this episode, I talk with David about the challenges blended farm families face during succession and estate transitions. We explore how honest communication, early planning, and choosing to overcome family dysfunction can shape a healthier legacy. David shares personal stories and lessons learned navigating complex family dynamics, while I highlight practical tips and resources for farm families ready to have the tough conversations before crisis hits. If you're involved in farm succession or blended family transitions, this episode offers valuable insights to help you move forward with clarity and compassion. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: David Marrison Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist RESOURCES - download for FREE CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches Timestamps 0:00:34 - Introduction of David Marrison and podcast topic on blended families 0:03:00 - David's background growing up on a dairy farm 0:05:48 - Discussion of family losses (father's death, first wife's cancer diagnosis) 0:09:24 - David's career with the Ohio State University farm management 0:11:51 - Resources available at farm office.osu.edu 0:14:06 - Why farmers are hesitant to ask for help 0:16:29 - Appreciative inquiry approach to farm family conversations 0:20:30 - Importance of family legacy and storytelling 0:26:29 - Challenges of blended families and communication 0:41:58 - Discussing farm transition and family dynamics 0:50:46 - Strategies for training the next generation 0:57:54 - Biggest risk in farm transition (preparing next generation)

In this episode, my guest is Cheryl Mitchell, founder of Farm Legacy and a longtime advocate for communication, leadership, and education in agriculture. Cheryl brings deep experience helping farm families navigate generational dynamics and make sound decisions during farm succession planning. We discuss how young farmers and ranchers can design better decisions during the early stages of their careers, especially when navigating the emotional terrain of multigenerational farm transition planning. Cheryl and I explore how generational identities, from the Silent Generation to Gen Z, shape values, expectations, and communication styles on the farm. You'll learn why listening well, asking thoughtful questions, and building trust across generations are critical to keeping the farm legacy alive. Cheryl also shares stories that highlight the often unspoken fears that can hold families back from making progress and how to approach tough conversations with more clarity and compassion. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Cheryl Mitchell Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist RESOURCES - download for FREE CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches Timestamps 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:07:05 - Discussion of generational differences 00:09:04 - Identity challenges for older farmers and how younger generations view work differently 00:14:06 - Strategies for younger farmers to approach and communicate with older generations 00:19:43 - Importance of focusing on legacy and emotional connection 00:20:56 - Definition of legacy as an "invisible thread" connecting past, present, and future 00:27:00 - Changing decision-making approaches in agriculture 00:30:28 - Best places and methods for having meaningful conversations 00:33:13 - Communication techniques like one-word check-ins 00:35:22 - Importance of involving younger generations in professional meetings early on 00:38:29 - Addressing concerns of family members, especially women, in farm succession planning

In this episode, my guest is Lauren Van Ewyk, co-founder of the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance, agricultural mental health advocate, social worker, foster parent, sheep farmer, and PhD student on a mission to give farmers better access to ag-informed therapists. We explore what narcissism has to do with farm family dynamics and why not understanding the truth—that we are fiercely loved and incredibly precious—ultimately blocks us from healthy relationship dynamics and personal growth. This episode is full of practical strategies, insight, and resources to help you navigate the complexities of your life as a farmer. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Lauren Van Ewyk Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist RESOURCES - download for FREE CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches Timestamps 0:00:30 The story of Elaine's stuffed sheep 0:02:25 Introduction to Lauren Van Ewyk 0:03:10 What is a narcissist when it comes to farm family dynamics 0:05:48 Helpful language for dealing with feeling attacked 0:07:52 You play an invaluable role in our world and community 0:09:46 Curiosity is a really valuable tool 0:11:24 It's all about identity 0:14:25 What does 'dropping a stone' mean 0:15:44 The impact of generational trauma 0:17:02 Unhelpful guilt and people pleasing 0:19:58 The dark side of resilience and workaholism 0:22:18 How to begin navigating towards a healthy dynamic on the farm