In this episode, host Ahlishia Shipley talks with Kevin Klair, Extension Economist and Director of the Center for Farm Financial Management at the University of Minnesota, about the importance of business planning for agricultural success.

Kevin explains what a business plan is, why it serves as more than just a document for lenders, and how it can help producers make informed decisions, manage risk, and build resilient operations. He also shares the story behind AgPlan, a free online business planning tool designed specifically for agriculture, and offers practical advice for producers ready to take the first step toward developing a plan for their farm or ranch.

In this episode, host Ahlishia Shipley sits down with veteran appraiser Thaddaus Dawson to discuss property valuation, appraisal accuracy, and the Reconsideration of Value (ROV) process. Listeners will learn practical steps for reviewing appraisal reports, identifying potential inaccuracies, and advocating for fair valuation of agricultural assets. Additional resources are available at AgFTAP.org and 10kaf.org.

In this episode of the FARM Champion Podcast, host Ahlishia Shipley sits down with agricultural marketing expert Darlene “Dar” Knipe to discuss what market access really means for farmers and ranchers. Dar shares common barriers producers face, the importance of using reliable market information to guide business decisions, and how the MarketMaker platform helps connect producers with buyers, consumers, and new opportunities. Listeners will also learn about emerging trends in agricultural marketing and practical steps to strengthen their market position and profitability.

In this episode of the FARM Champion Podcast, host Ahlishia Shipley sits down with Kara Woods of the National Agricultural Policy Research Center at Alcorn State University to discuss heirs property and why it matters for farm families and rural communities. They discuss how heirs property develops, the challenges it can create for landowners, and how research, education, and practical resources can help families better protect their land, preserve generational wealth, and make informed decisions for the future.

In this episode, host Ahlishia Shipley talks with Kiley Fleming, Executive Director of the Iowa Mediation Service and Chair of the Coalition of Agricultural Mediation Programs (CAMP), about the role of agricultural mediation in helping producers navigate conflict, communication challenges, and difficult decisions. Kiley explains how mediation works, discusses common agricultural disputes, and shares practical strategies for managing tension within farm operations and families. Listeners will also learn how to connect with certified mediation programs and resources through CAMP and AgFTAP.

Estate and transition planning can be one of the hardest conversations farm families face, but it is also one of the most important. In this episode, host Ahlishia Shipley sits down with Paul Goeringer, Principal Faculty Specialist and Extension Legal Specialist at the University of Maryland, to discuss how producers can begin planning for the future of their operations. Paul breaks down key estate planning tools, shares insight into the family dynamics and communication challenges that often arise during succession planning, and offers practical advice for getting started. He also highlights resources and professional networks available to help farm families protect both their operations and their legacy for future generations. To learn more about this work, please visit: Agriculture Law Education Initiative

In this episode of the FARM Champion Podcast, host Ahlishia Shipley speaks with Jonathan Shepherd, Agricultural Extension Specialist at the University of Kentucky, about farm tax planning and recordkeeping as critical risk management tools. Jonathan reframes Schedule F as a year-round practice and addresses common challenges like system overwhelm. He also shares a producer success story showing how strong records can unlock capital. This conversation highlights how disciplined, consistent recordkeeping strengthens farm business management and long-term resilience.

When financial pressures mount, the right support can help farmers find a path forward. In this episode, host Ahlishia Shipley sits down with Alicia Netterville to explore how the AgFTAP Cooperators Project is helping producers navigate real challenges like rising costs, credit issues, and access to capital. Through one-on-one support across 18 states, cooperators are helping farmers restructure debt, secure financing, and strengthen their operations. To learn more or connect with support in your area, call 1-888-200-6013.