Taking Stalk with IFB
RFD Radio’s Rita Frazer brings Farm Bureau leaders, members and experts together to discuss issues facing agriculture and rural Illinois. Here are this month’s episodes:
Ep. 18 – Facing fears: How to successfully navigate farm transitions.
How do you start the farm transition conversation? What’s standing in your way? “The reason people are so hesitant is because they’re afraid,” says Elaine Froese, an award-winning author and farm family transition coach. “What are they afraid of? They’re afraid of conflict because people might want different things.” Don’t miss this important episode as RFD Radio’s Rita Frazer brings together Froese, IFB President Brian Duncan and Vice President Evan Hultine.
Ep. 19 – U.S.-UK trade: 30 minutes with British Consul General Richard Hyde.
From the Duncan Farm in Ogle County, Hyde talks about the importance of trade with the United States. “The message we’re giving to the administration over and over again is ‘We’re your friends. We want to trade with you. Completely get why you’re doing what you’re doing. But let’s talk about how do we make it as easy as possible to do business with the United States.’”
The farm visit and podcast recording came just days before President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a trade deal between the two countries. Hyde and Illinois Farm Bureau’s Brian Duncan and Evan Hultine also discussed the challenges facing farmers in both countries, consumer sentiment and the role of technology on the farm.
Ep. 20 - Farmer suicide: The Stuenkel family story.
Nearing the three-year anniversary of Tim Stuenkel’s death, his sisters courageously share the story of finding Tim after he chose to end his life at the age of 44. They also share the pain, regret and guilt they carry. “It’s hard on the people left behind. You think about the years of suffering that we didn’t know he was going through this,” Jill said. “You don’t want anyone to go through that kind of pain, and feel so alone and isolated, and like they have no other choices.” Editor’s Note: This is raw, emotional and descriptive, especially around the 21-minute mark. Listener discretion is advised.