Farm Family Harmony Podcast

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 Marsha Goetting, Extension Educator from Montana State University, for a compassionate and eye-opening conversation about a topic many farm families quietly struggle with: dementia. We explore how cognitive decline affects farm operations, family roles, and long-term planning, and why facing it head-on with clarity and care is essential. From understanding legal readiness to building respectful caregiving plans, Marsha shares stories, strategies, and practical tools to help families support aging loved ones with dignity. Together, we talk about the emotional weight of ambiguous loss, how to include children in the journey, and ways to bring more peace into difficult seasons of change. Whether you’re already navigating dementia in your family or simply want to be prepared, this episode offers heartfelt guidance you won’t want to miss. If your farm team includes aging parents or partners, this is the episode to listen to together. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Marsha Goetting 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 0:01:33 - Introduction to dealing with dementia on farm/ranch topic and Marsha's background 0:04:03 - Personal experience with mother's Alzheimer's diagnosis and early warning signs 0:08:45 - Power of attorney importance and legal documentation needs 0:12:34 - Table of contents overview of the dementia resource guide 0:13:44 - Rural-specific challenges and stigma around dementia diagnosis 0:17:43 - Safety concerns on farms (cattle, equipment, guns, driving) 0:23:58 - Working with medical professionals and dementia-friendly communities 0:28:49 - Driving cessation challenges and family navigation 0:34:23 - Caregiver wellness and avoiding burnout 0:34:46 - Resources for children dealing with grandparents' dementia 0:41:09 - Key takeaways: continuing to love the person through the journey 0:42:40 - Final advice on not procrastinating with legal planning and destigmatizing dementia

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 Kalynn Spain: farm family coach, young mom, and self-described conflict nerd, about what it really means to be “the mom in the middle” of farm family dynamics. We explore how mothers often carry the emotional weight of succession conversations, get stuck in the middle of unresolved conflict, and feel responsible for keeping the peace, even when it’s burning them out. Kalynn shares insights from her coaching work and lived experience raising young kids on the farm, and we offer strategies for flattening communication triangles, setting healthy boundaries, and lightening the load. If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying too much for too many people, this episode offers language, encouragement, and tools to help you step out of the middle and move your family forward with care. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Kalynn Spain 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 0:02:04 - Introduction of "Mom in the Middle" concept 0:05:37 - Discussion on mom's role in family harmony 0:08:33 - Explanation of "flattening the triangle" in family dynamics 0:12:52 - Importance of written communication in family conflicts 0:15:10 - Power of family meetings and facilitation 0:18:53 - Challenges in pulling farm family members into conversations 0:24:43 - Self-care and mental wellness for moms 0:26:54 - Strategies for moms to take care of themselves 0:30:26 - Conflict as a skill to be learned

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, I sit down with farm family coach and agrologist Lyle Wiens to explore the founder’s critical role in shaping a healthy farm business culture. We unpack how clear communication strategies, strong leadership, and early planning can ease generational transition and prevent conflict. Lyle shares actionable insights on aligning values, building a communication plan, and navigating tough conversations – all rooted in real farm experience. If you’re planning your farm’s future, this conversation is a must-listen. Lyle is a valued member of our coaching team, and young farmers will really appreciate his perspective! Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Lyle Wiens 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 0:02:05 - Lyle discusses his work in farm family transition and succession 0:02:41 - Background on the painting in his office and personal reflection 0:05:14 - Discussion on farm business culture and working with farm families 0:05:47 - Expectations of clients and the complexity of family systems 0:07:59 - Challenges in family businesses, particularly around behavior 0:10:17 - Personal growth and taking responsibility for one's actions 0:12:01 - Impact of self-reflection on empathy and emotional regulation 0:13:33 - The founder's role in creating a positive business culture 0:15:14 - Challenges of founders holding onto power and avoiding difficult conversations 0:22:52 - Importance of personality tests like Enneagram 0:27:09 - Personal story about working with family and receiving criticism 0:34:02 - Discussion on why people change and personal motivation 0:40:38 - Role of forgiveness in family business dynamics 0:49:12 - Final key advice: understanding who you are as a founder

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, I sit down with Lydia Carpenter, a farmer, facilitator, and thoughtful voice in rural community development, for a special role-reversing conversation where I’m the one answering the questions. We talk about the power of storytelling in farm succession and how the narratives we inherit, avoid, or rewrite shape the future of our farms and families. Lydia and I explore the emotional side of transition planning, the importance of listening with intention, and how language, values, and identity all influence what legacy really means. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Lydia Carpenter 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 0:01:30 - Introduction and discussion about the power of stories 0:01:40 - Exploring the power of letters  0:03:46 - Elaine's advice for young farmers  0:07:29 - Elaine's early experiences as a young farmer 0:15:15 - Changes in farming and family dynamics 0:23:15 - Importance of communication and being present 0:26:27 - What excites Elaine about working with farm families 0:31:06 - Reflections on contentment and life's journey

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

In this episode, my guest is Isobel Knight, an Australian succession planning specialist and owner and director of ProAgtive - Australia’s leading farm family transition planning business. Isobel specializes in ensuring that the next generation has an opportunity to participate in agriculture and believes that valuing family above all else is the key to future success. We will explain what it means when mom and dad “go soft” during the farm transition, plus the consequences of not having a family-centred process in place for the next generation. We will discuss how succession planning is not a single event, but an ongoing process, which, if started early enough, can protect farm family members (particularly mom and dad) when they’re at their worst and most vulnerable.  Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Isobel Knight 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 of Isabel Knight and her background in farming 0:01:14 Isabel discusses her family farm history and challenges in farm succession 0:07:08 Explanation of Proactive's approach to farm transition 0:09:25 Detailed process of gathering information, including questionnaires and financial analysis 0:15:13 Discussion on "going soft" with children in farm transition 0:18:24 Strategies for helping parents align and plan for their future 0:22:16 Importance of integrating business, succession, and estate plans 0:25:07 Challenges of making decisions after losing a spouse 0:28:54 Closing advice on prioritizing parents' needs in farm transition

In this episode, my guest is Andrew Leikvoll, a leadership coach based in west central Minnesota. Andrew is part of the team at Triune Leadership Serves, a coaching and consulting organization based entirely around servant leadership. We discuss what is at the heart of servant leadership and why the culture of leading with love accounts for the tendency of servant-led organizations to outperform and thrive in the long run. We talk about how micromanaging is robbing the next generation of their innovative energy, and why being able to clearly articulate your business (not your personal) purpose, vision, and values, is crucial in your ability to show people why their role matters and how it may (or may not be) aligned with the overarching purpose of the business. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Andrew Leikvoll 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 0:00:36 Introduction of Andrew Leikvoll and discussion of servant leadership 0:08:31 Discussing personal identity separate from work 0:10:24 Accountability and keeping people aligned with core values 0:14:04 Living in the past and delaying progress in agriculture 0:21:18 Importance of relationships in leadership 0:22:53 Biblical perspective on leadership styles 0:27:31 Coaching strategies for improving generational relationships in family businesses 0:32:45 Discussion of love, patience, and commitment in relationships 0:35:36 Examples of successful people-first companies

In this episode, my guest is Matt Boos, founder of Agrigrowth Consulting, based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. We discuss the power of peer groups and why surrounding yourself with people with positive mindsets, who genuinely want to cheer you on, is a game-changer when it comes to personal growth. We explore the benefits of joining a peer group with folks of different perspectives and varying levels of experience, as well as the little mindset shifts and decisions you can make to buy back truly valuable time. We also cover why the Law of Reciprocity and providing value without expectation is so important in the realm of self-development. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Matt Boos 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 to Matt Boos 0:03:56 What is a peer group and why is it so powerful? 0:07:16 Learning from failures and successes  0:07:42 Understanding your value  0:10:13 The guidelines that need to be in place for peer groups 0:12:28 Matt’s new peer group 0:15:08 Leveraging AI to alleviate the things we’re not good at  0:20:02 The antidote to overcome barriers to establishing peer groups 0:20:53 The power of bringing together different perspectives 0:23:49 The success of all vs the individual 0:24:37 The Law of Reciprocity 0:26:32 Diversified revenue streams 0:29:07 How Matt stays in the lane of positivity  0:29:33 Peer groups are like a secret society 0:31:44 Getting more “time currency” 0:35:33 Stacking habits and total transparency 0:41:42 Comparison is a joy stealer

In this episode, my guest is Ben Law, former financial advisor turned podcaster and strategic coach for agribusinesses and the rural community - helping them grow, protect, and transition family wealth by addressing the problems and pitfalls of succession. We discuss the importance of preparing the next generation to be good custodians of wealth by cultivating early succession planning. We also explore how fear, language, and financial transparency all play a role in whether or not a farm family thrives. By the end of the episode, you’ll understand how the combination of wealth, wisdom, and wellness are key factors in the overall success of high-performance farm families. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Ben Law Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - join the waitlist for the Farm Family Harmony Membership 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 to Ben Law 0:05:58 Why some farm families thrive and others don’t 0:08:03 The 3 factors of wealth, wisdom, and wellness 0:010:06 Being proactive vs reactive 0:12:41 High-performing families are built, not born 0:15:37 How Ben got clarity on his new identity 0:18:00 Using language to understand what someone truly wants 0:23:30 How to address to fear of failure 0:27:30 The telltale signs that a succession either will or won’t be successful 0:30:43 Why all generations need to be at the table (including both on and off-farm siblings) 0:35:20 It’s the unsaid things that are the problem 0:36:39 How can you add value to the farm as an off-farm family member? 0:41:09 A hopeful message to any despondent mom’s

In this episode, my guest is Robin Tunnicliffe - vegetable farmer and co-owner of Sea Bluff Farm in Saanich, Vancouver Island. Robin was one of the attendees at a workshop I held in Saanich over a decade ago, and today, we discuss her journey from not knowing where to start to now owning equity as a non-family farm member. We discuss Robin’s transition from farm apprentice to farm owner and the challenges she faced along the way, including making sure everyone was on board during all the phases of transition. We also talk about how Robin’s husband, Sasha, played an instrumental role in the success of the transition, as well as the power of written agreements. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in non-related joint venture farming. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Robin Tunnicliffe Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - join the waitlist for the Farm Family Harmony Membership 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 to Robin Tunnicliffe 0:02:45The story behind Sea Bluff 0:04:59 How Robin became part of the farm as a non-family member 0:06:04 What culture means when it comes to the farm 0:07:01 The power of written agreements 0:09:56 When Robin actually secured equity in the farm - the tipping point 0:12:58 Making sure everyone was in agreement 0:14:43 Robin’s succession plan  0:16:28 The benefits of becoming incorporated 0:17:04 The Legacy of Sea Bluff  0:19:31 Finding other channels of profitability

In this episode, I sit down for the first time on this podcast with our newest coaching teammate, Alyssa Brown. Alyssa is a fifth-generation farmer, mom, and farm partner who is passionate about working with farmers to stay financially organized on the farm. We have an in-depth discussion about the consequences of delayed decision-making and how changing that habit can help determine the long-term profitability and sustainability of your farm. Alyssa shares several practical strategies and useful tools for financial organization as well as tips for young farmers who are struggling to get founding farmers on board. By the end of the episode, you’ll have a good grasp on the next steps of your own financial journey and will have gained knowledge as to why a team of advisors (who you actually like!) will save you money in the long run. 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 waitlist for the Membership 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 to Alyssa Brown 0:03:21 The first step to getting financially organized 0:04:58 Separating the family account from the farm account 0:05:30 Embracing new technology for accounting 0:08:28 Accounting software options 0:09:08 Tracking non-cash transactions 0:13:09 Variable costs vs fixed costs 0:16:19 Organization tip for tracking fixed vs variable costs 0:18:02 A useful piece of info to include on your spreadsheet 0:19:21 Financial transparency on the farm 0:23:18 Where to gain better financial literacy  0:25:39 Having a good connection with your team of advisors is important  0:26:56 Using a funnel as a visual metaphor  0:28:11 Was it about farmers not wanting to pay tax? 0:33:55 How young farmers can get their whole family to the table 0:36:52 Why it’s important for advisors to be transparent about their work

In this episode, I sit down with Farm Family Coach Kalynn Spain - a certified Leadership Coach with a degree in Conflict Resolution Studies and over five years of training and volunteer experience as a mediator. In this discussion Kalynn shares recent insights from her experience with moving in with the in-laws and beginning the challenging, but hopeful journey of farm succession planning. We also explore how healthy boundaries are essential to stay firm as a family when transitioning to farm life. We discuss what it looks like to remain true to your own family values, dreams, and schedules while integrating with life on the farm. By the end of the episode, you’ll have gained a new perspective on the importance of boundaries for self-care, a sense of safety, living authentically, and working together towards a more intentional future. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Kalynn Spain Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - become a Farm Family Harmony Member 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 to Kalynn Spain  0:02:57 Boundaries and emotional regulation 0:08:01 Assumptions began after moving to the farm 0:08:43 We don’t always need to give specific reasons 0:09:07 External vs internal boundaries 0:10:04 Saying no authentically 0:13:29 Finding the courage to set boundaries 0:16:46 Healthy ways to build trust 0:21:00 Going to a financial planner for clarity on and off the farm 0:26:00 Challenging assumptions and the stories we tell ourselves 0:28:47 Boundaries promote safety and the authentic self

In this episode, my guest is Patti Durand - author, speaker, facilitator, and mediator ​​specializing in succession planning for family businesses. Patti has just released her first book, The Future Leader - which is effectively a workbook families can read together and use as an instruction guide to work through the tough stuff. We discuss how much of the strife families experience is simply because they do not yet have the language to communicate their needs in a clear and effective way. Patti shares key information about how assumptions, accountability, and avoidance play a big role in the success of the successor and what you can do to assure it. Our conversation is geared towards folks in agriculture, but Patti has made it a priority to make sure anyone reading her book, no matter their background or gender, is able to benefit from the wisdom within. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Patti Durand Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - become a Farm Family Harmony Member 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 to Patti Durand  0:01:21 Why the title to Patti’s book changed 0:03:00 Patti’s path to Brightrack Consulting 0:05:52 Patti’s key messages 0:06:53 Why the book was written in 2nd person and without gender  0:09:21 Giving farmers the language they need for hard conversations 0:10:30 The thing about assumptions 0:13:23 Awareness and better decision-making at an earlier age 0:16:14 What’s stopping people from breaking down assumptions 0:17:15 Transparency and personal wealth bubbles 0:20:23 Accountability when you don’t know the answer 0:21:58 Why founders find financial transparency so difficult 0:23:39 Communication habits that are not serving us 0:24:50 A peer network beyond your family 0:29:30 What drives Patti’s passion

In this solo episode of the Farm Family Harmony Podcast, we’ll bring in the New Year with the topic of living with intention. Throughout the episode, I’ll ask you to ponder many areas in your life, including all the different roles you play in your busy life as a farmer, friend, and family member. I talk about the fact that we have many choices when it comes to living an intentional life. I challenge you to go deep and explore how you’re currently showing up on the farm and what things you might want to change to show up differently in 2025. We’ll go over tips and ideas on practical ways to make mindset shifts that will lead to a more meaningful, intentional life.  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 - become a Farm Family Harmony Member RESOURCES - download for FREE   CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition  BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches Timestamps 0:00:00 Introduction 0:00:30 Alison Weaver’s Rural Lifestyle Planner, “Navigate 2025” 0:01:36 Living an intentional life  0:02:55 Speaking engagements in 2025 0:04:33 Shifting mindsets in agriculture 0:05:45 How are you living intentionally in your 6 Key Roles? 0:08:24 What is your Rallying Cry? 0:09:32 Community Support (beyond your family) 0:10:40 One of the roles I struggle with  0:11:48 Your cherished belief 0:13:35 Financial Transparency  0:15:19 Blocking priorities in Google Calendar 0:16:19 Planning your mini-transition 0:18:46 Cocooning 0:22:40 Having strong self-worth 0:23:17 What is your vision for 2025?

In this episode, my guest is Farm Family Coach Lyle Wiens - a professional Agrologist and Grain Marketing Advisor, with training in conflict management, mediation, and group facilitation. We discuss Lyle’s knowledge on an approach to leadership called the “Art of Hosting”, including the four Principles of Dialogue in which the goal is a meaningful and impactful dialogue that is respectful, creative, generative, and allows for solutions. Listeners will gain insightful and practical wisdom on how to achieve a farm family transition that is oriented towards creating conditions for positive relationships and building healthy teams and organizational culture. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Lyle Wiens Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - join the waitlist for the Farm Family Harmony Membership 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 to Lyle Wiens 0:03:34 Art of Hosting and the Principles of Dialogue 0:05:33 Key Principles of the Principles of Dialogue 0:08:42 What it means to “host yourself” 0:10:03 Listening vs Convincing 0:10:42 Barry Johnson and Polarity 0:13:51 Honoring the intensity of agriculture 0:18:00 Power dynamic in farm family transition 0:18:45 Navigating and hosting powerful people 0:20:00 Sitting with tension and being conflict-aware 0:22:23 The stories we tell ourselves 0:23:25 Power, Control, and Perfectionism 0:25:42 Nonviolent Communication 0:26:23 Life-alienating Communication 0:27:26 Moralistic Judgements 0:29:16 Limiting Beliefs  0:31:35 There’s always a choice  0:36:25 Crying and the culture of love  0:35:42 A generational resistance to face-to-face conversation  

In this episode, I sit down with multi-lingual (English/Spanish) coaching teammate and life-long learner Lydia Carpenter. Lydia is a first-generation farmer with a fascinating background in climate science and meteorology and a passion for people in agriculture. Together we explore the difference between "complicated" and "complex" systems, particularly as they apply to farm transition and family dynamics. Through the lens of complexity theory, we discuss why cookie-cutter checklists often fall short and how embracing complexity can actually be empowering for farm families. Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com. Discover more about our guest: Lydia Carpenter Elaine Froese Resources: Watch this episode on YouTube. SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach MEMBERSHIP - become at Farm Family Harmony Member 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 to Lydia Carpenter and complexity theory 0:03:55 Complicated is not the same as complex  0:07:00 The three circles: family, management, and ownership 0:09:15 Why checklists aren't always the answer 0:10:38 Key characteristics of complex systems 0:13:02 The importance of internal and external stories 0:15:37 Creating space for meaningful dialogue 0:18:33 Self-awareness and situational awareness 0:21:41 Working with patterns and making changes 0:25:05 The power of diverse voices and perspectives 0:28:18 Moving forward despite uncertainty 0:30:34 Taking the next steps and creating healthy patterns 0:32:45 Embracing complexity in farm transition 0:34:50 The importance of ongoing dialogue and communication