Modern Farming

This week, we sit down with Francie Black, a technology entrepreneur, educator, and innovator with more than 20 years of experience spanning product training, project management, software development, and business development.From leading internet development initiatives for a Fortune 500 company to consulting for major corporations and emerging startups, Francie has spent her career helping organizations navigate an ever-changing technological landscape. She also brought technology education to audiences nationwide as the host of ABC WLOS's weekly "Tech Time" segment, with her features syndicated to more than 100 television stations across the country.Today, Francie is the founder of Home Hacker Camp, where she inspires the next generation through robotics, programming, and STEM education.Join us as we discuss the future of technology, the importance of hands-on learning, and how empowering young people with technical skills can help prepare them for tomorrow's opportunities.

In this episode of the Modern Farming Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Stella Brownlee, soil scientist and founder of RootLogic Ag Consulting. With more than a decade of hands-on research and field experience in soil fertility, plant nutrition, plant physiology, microbiology, and water management, Dr. Brownlee brings both science and strategy to the conversation. This is not theory. This is practical application farmers can take back to their fields. Dr. Brownlee shares how growers can move beyond guesswork and reactive decision-making and instead implement structured, strategic soil health and nutrient management systems that increase both yield and quality. She explains why thriving farms are built from the soil up and how regenerative principles can strengthen profitability, resilience, and long-term sustainability. A key focus of the episode is the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship: • Right Source • Right Rate • Right Time • Right Place She breaks down how these four principles, when applied correctly, reduce waste, improve nutrient efficiency, and ultimately support healthier crops and stronger returns. We also discuss: • The connection between soil microbiology and plant performance • Why water management is inseparable from nutrient strategy • How soil testing should guide decisions, not confirm them • What regenerative really means in practical, measurable terms • The mindset shift required for farmers to truly thrive Dr. Brownlee’s approach is rooted in data, discipline, and long-term thinking. Her work through RootLogic Ag Consulting helps producers build systems that are proactive instead of reactive, profitable instead of patchwork. If you care about soil health, crop performance, and building a farm that lasts for generations, this conversation will challenge and equip you. Follow Dr. Stella Brownlee: Instagram: @stella_brownlee_ Facebook: Stella Brownlee

Modern Farming Podcast – Episode 208 Raising the Next Generation: Youth Voices from the Florida State Fair In this special episode, we traveled to the Florida State Fair to spotlight the next generation of agricultural leaders. We sat down with dedicated 4H and FFA youth livestock exhibitors who are learning responsibility, leadership, and lifelong skills through hands-on experience in agriculture. This episode is a powerful reminder that the future of farming is in capable hands. Episode Highlights Jacob Zinkhan Jacob shares how he was introduced to livestock through his school’s FFA program and how that experience opened the door to working with animals. He introduces us to Feta, the heifer he is proudly showing this season, and explains the daily commitment required to properly care for and prepare a show animal. Morgan Houston Morgan reflects on her years in 4H, where she has shown rabbits, steers, and heifers. She discusses the responsibility, discipline, and confidence she has developed through her projects and how 4H has helped shape both her character and future aspirations. Tyler Pace – Hardee County Cattlemen’s Sweetheart Tyler talks about her steer Bruiser, a 1,200+ pound Angus cross she is exhibiting at her local fair. She shares how participating in pageants has strengthened her public speaking skills and confidence, and why educating the public about agriculture is a responsibility she takes seriously as an ambassador for the industry. Teagan Teagan joins us to talk about her two breeding does, Messy and Nelly. Now in her fourth year of showing, she shares what she has learned through consistency and dedication to her project animals. Reagan also speaks passionately about advocating for agriculture and why it is important for young people to tell the true story of farming and livestock production. Jacob Gable Jacob introduces his Brangus-Simmental cross he is exhibiting and shares how FFA has impacted his life beyond the show ring. He speaks about community service through FFA and how the organization builds leadership, service-mindedness, and a strong work ethic. Why This Episode Matters These young exhibitors represent more than ribbons and trophies. They represent discipline, stewardship, and a deep respect for agriculture. Through 4H and FFA, they are developing the skills and character needed to lead in their communities and carry agriculture forward. Tune in to hear directly from these impressive young agriculturalists and be encouraged by their dedication to preserving and promoting the agricultural way of life.

Episode 206 Broken But Beautiful: Faith, Farming, and Transformation with Dan & Julie Klob In this episode, Kris and Tara sit down with Dan and Julie Klob, founders of TLC Edible Landscape and Broken But Beautiful Ministries in Pasco County, Florida. What began as a simple dream to serve others has grown into a thriving 5-acre permaculture farm and nonprofit mission focused on restoration, purpose, and transformation—through faith, agriculture, and community. Dan and Julie share how their edible landscape is more than just a farm—it is a living classroom and a place of healing. Everything on their land is intentionally designed to serve at least three purposes, creating a sustainable system that reflects both stewardship and faith. From nitrogen-fixing plants that enrich the soil, to goats that: Clear forage Provide manure for compost and worm systems Supply milk for drinking, cheese, and soap And even provide meat for nourishment Every piece of the farm works together in harmony—just like the people they serve. Through TLC and Broken But Beautiful Ministries, Dan and Julie are: Providing job opportunities Teaching hands-on agricultural skills Offering life guidance through Christ Creating a safe place for people to heal, learn, and grow This episode is a beautiful reminder that farming isn’t just about growing food—it’s about growing people. If you’ve ever wondered how faith, sustainability, and service can work together, this conversation is for you.

📝 Episode 204 Show Notes In this episode of the Modern Farming Podcast, Kris and Tara sit down with Brad Turner to share an exciting new partnership between the Green Jean Foundation and Lake Swan Camp—one that’s turning vision into action on a stunning 100-acre property. Together, they explore plans for creating an immersive learning farm where students, families, and community members can experience sustainable agriculture from the ground up. From soil health to livestock management, this farm will serve as a hands-on classroom rooted in stewardship, education, and long-term land care. Listeners will hear about: The mission behind the Green Jean Foundation and why education is at the heart of this project How Lake Swan Camp’s 100 acres will be transformed into a working learning farm Big plans for pasture improvement using rotational grazing and restorative land management practices Why regenerative agriculture matters for the future of farming, food systems, and rural communities A behind-the-scenes tour of the beautiful camp property and what’s coming next This episode is all about building something lasting—healthy soil, healthy land, and a place where people can reconnect with how food is grown and land is cared for. 🎧 Tune in to hear how education, agriculture, and thoughtful land management are coming together to shape the future—one pasture at a time.