Field Good Life

What does the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture actually do across our state? I sat down with Dr. Deacue Fields, vice president for agriculture, to learn more about the research, Extension programs, and people working behind the scenes to support Arkansas agriculture.From smart poultry houses and blackberry research to forestry, food science, and 4-H, I learned just how far the Division's work reaches. We also talked about the value of Arkansas agriculture, the challenges of funding, and what it takes to keep serving farmers, families, and communities across the state.Even as a Razorback and College of Agriculture alum, I walked away with a new appreciation for everything happening right here in Arkansas. I think you'll learn a few things, too!Tune in to Field Good Life wherever you listen to your podcasts. 🌾

In this episode of Field Good Life, I sit down with Christie Jordan, CEO of the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas, to learn more about how food banks work and the many ways we can help fight hunger in our own communities.I learned that the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas serves 12 counties, works with more than 180 local agencies, and distributed more than 9 million pounds of food last year. We talk about how donated food gets to local pantries, why fresh produce, dairy, rice, and personal care items matter, and how farmers and businesses can play a role.We also discuss the connection between agriculture, food insecurity, and nutrition programs, and why supporting our communities takes all of us working together.Want to help?If you’re in Northeast Arkansas and interested in donating food, exploring a farm or business partnership, or volunteering, call the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas at 870-932-3663 and ask to speak with a staff member about how you can get involved.You can also learn more at FoodBankofNEA.org.I came away from this conversation with a greater appreciation for the work happening behind the scenes and a reminder that even a few pounds of rice or a small donation can make a real difference for a family.See you in the field!

Some of my favorite conversations happen when I get the chance to sit down with someone who sees agriculture from a little different perspective than I do.That was the case with Brad Guse.Brad and I met by chance at an airport, and that quick conversation eventually turned into a friendship and now a conversation on the Field Good Life Podcast.Brad has spent more than 25 years working in agricultural finance, but his connection to agriculture started long before banking. He worked on a dairy farm, fell in love with milking cows, and eventually found his way into dairy nutrition, community banking, and agricultural finance.In this episode, we talk about the importance of relationships in agriculture, understanding the people behind the numbers, the value of peer groups, mentoring, and the many different paths a career in agriculture can take.More than anything, this conversation reminded me that agriculture is about people. The relationships we build, the things we learn from each other, and the different experiences we bring to the table all matter.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Brad Guse on the Field Good Life Podcast.

Weeds are something every farmer has to deal with, but what happens when those weeds stop responding to the herbicides that used to work?In this episode of Field Good Life, I sit down with Dr. Jason Norsworthy, a University of Arkansas weed science professor, to talk about herbicide resistance and one of rice growers’ biggest challenges: barnyard grass.We talk about how resistance develops, why timing and residual herbicides matter, what growers can do when they suspect resistance, and how weed samples can be submitted for testing.Jason also shares some insight into new herbicide technologies and what they could mean for the future of rice production.And one of my favorite parts of our conversation? Jason told me he’s never met a weed he liked. 🌱It’s a conversation about managing the weeds we have today while protecting the tools we’ll need tomorrow.

In this episode of Field Good Life, I sit down with Carley McLean, Associate Director of Policy and Market Development with Missouri Soybeans, to talk about her journey from rural Missouri to Capitol Hill and eventually back home. We talk about her experience working in Washington, D.C., what she learned about farm policy and advocacy, and why relationships are so important in making sure farmers’ voices are heard. Carley also shares what led her and her family to return to Missouri and why she believes young people should say yes to opportunities, gain experience outside their comfort zone, and bring that knowledge back to their rural communities. It’s a conversation about agriculture, leadership, family, career growth, and finding your own path while staying connected to where you come from.

Rice is powering more than you might think. 🌾In this episode, I sit down with Kelly Robbins, Executive Director of Arkansas Rice, to talk about the people, programs, and advocacy behind one of Arkansas’s most important industries.We talk about Rice Month, Rice in Schools, scholarship programs, the Rice Reps program, and how Arkansas Rice supports farmers and the industry across the state. Kelly also shares what declining rice acreage means for farmers and why advocacy and support for the rice industry matter now more than ever.If you care about agriculture, rural communities, food security, or the future of Arkansas farming, I think you’ll enjoy this conversation and come away with a better understanding of why rice matters to Arkansas.Listen now on Field Good Life wherever you get your podcasts.

Dr. Steve Linscombe, director of the USA Rice Foundation, shares how the Rice Leadership Development Program has prepared the next generation of leaders for more than 30 years. Learn about the competitive selection process, hands-on experiences across the U.S. and abroad, and the leadership skills that help participants make a lasting impact on the rice industry. Whether you're considering applying or simply interested in the future of agriculture, this episode offers valuable insight and inspiration.

What happens when you take your farm's story straight to Washington, D.C.? In this solo episode of Field Good Life, I share my experience meeting with members of Congress, USDA officials, trade representatives, and policymakers alongside six fellow women farmers from across the country. I'll talk about why personal stories can influence agriculture policy, what surprised us during our meetings on Capitol Hill, and why lawmakers need to hear directly from the people who grow America's food. Whether you're a farmer, an advocate for agriculture, or simply curious about how farm policy is shaped in Washington, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at farmer advocacy and the power of showing up. If you've ever wondered whether one farmer can make a difference, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Kenneth Hartman Jr., Chairman of the Board of the National Corn Growers Association, shares insights into the corn industry, its uses beyond feed, the future of ethanol and other innovative uses. Discover how corn supports rural economies, innovative research, and policy efforts to benefit farmers and consumers alike.

In this episode, Leslee Tell shares her journey from a classroom teacher to a farm to school program coordinator with the Department of Agriculture in Arkansas. She discusses the development and impact of the Arkansas Rice in Schools program, highlighting how local agriculture is integrated into education to benefit students, farmers, and communities.Connect with the Arkansas Department of Ag here: https://www.facebook.com/ARDeptAghttps://x.com/ARDeptAghttps://www.instagram.com/ardeptag/https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkansas-department-of-agriculture/