The Heart of Rural America

Amanda Radke
  • 4.9 (45)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the Heart of Rural America podcast. I’m your host, Amanda Radke ​-- a South Dakota cattle rancher, wife, mom of four, children’s book author, and motivational speaker. I started this show with a simple goal in mind -- to share the untold stories of the often-overlooked independent farmer and rancher. On this program, We’ll discuss the challenges that face rural America and the anti-animal agriculture agenda that seeks to eliminate our way of life. But in the face of these ongoing battles, we’ll explore impactful solutions and meaningful pathways to profitability in order to keep producers on the land, to safeguard our private property rights, and to keep meat, dairy, and eggs on the dinner table. And in stark contrast to the ugly, divisive headlines in today’s mainstream media, "The Heart of Rural America" will celebrate the faith, family values, patriotism, and work ethic of the incredible people I meet in my travels as an agricultural speaker. I hope you’ll be inspired by these agricultural entrepreneurs and rural families, just as I am. Now let’s hit the dusty trail together as we uncover The Heart of Rural America. - Amanda

  1. The Future of Cattle Ranching: Why Independent Producers Are Winning Again

    Jun 3

    The Future of Cattle Ranching: Why Independent Producers Are Winning Again

    Takeaways Independent cattle producers are finally seeing leverage after decades of survival modeStrong genetics and strategic breeding decisions are creating massive opportunities in today’s cattle marketRanchers must embrace entrepreneurship and free market thinking to build long term successAmanda Radke sits down with Chris Earl at Meat Stock, surrounded by thousands of beef enthusiasts, to discuss the state of the cattle industry, genetics, beef demand, and why independent producers may finally be entering their strongest market cycle in generations. Chris shares why cattle producers deserve more credit for surviving decades of difficult market conditions, how genetics are shaping the future of beef production, and why entrepreneurship may be the biggest opportunity for rural America moving forward. Together, Amanda and Chris discuss everything from beef demand and policy shifts to free market capitalism, cow numbers, family ranch survival, and what producers can do today to position themselves for the future. Key Topics Covered: Why CK6 Consulting saw record breaking sale seasonsBeef genetics and selection pressure in today’s marketWhy independent producers finally have leverageEntrepreneurship versus commodity thinkingThe future outlook for beef demandWhy producers must advocate for themselvesPolitics, policy shifts, and family ranch survivalBuilding generational opportunities in agricultureFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms. Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & Cattle Use code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

    23 min
  2. The Truth About AI Data Centers and Rural America with Sara Steever

    May 20

    The Truth About AI Data Centers and Rural America with Sara Steever

    Takeaways AI data centers require enormous amounts of electricity and water resourcesRural communities are increasingly concerned about property rights and local controlThe economic promises tied to hyperscale data centers may not match realityAI technology presents both opportunities and risks for jobs, privacy, and national securitySouth Dakota lawmakers debated major legislation involving data center tax incentives and citizen protectionsIn this episode of The Heart of Rural America, Amanda Radke sits down with longtime friend and technology expert Sara Steever for an in-depth conversation about AI, hyperscale data centers, property rights, and the future of rural America. Sara explains the growing concerns surrounding massive data center developments proposed across South Dakota and other rural communities. From energy consumption and water usage to economic development claims and surveillance concerns, this episode breaks down the realities behind the AI boom and what it could mean for agriculture, small towns, and future generations. Amanda and Sara also discuss the role of government incentives, local control, free markets, and why first principles like privacy, critical thinking, and faith matter more than ever in an increasingly digital world. Key Topics Covered: What hyperscale AI data centers actually areHow much electricity large data centers consumeThe hidden water usage tied to AI infrastructureEconomic development promises versus real job creationProperty rights and local community concernsSouth Dakota legislation involving data centersAI’s impact on jobs and workforce developmentNational security concerns related to AI and ChinaPrivacy, surveillance, and deepfake technologyWhy critical thinking and faith matter in the AI eraFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms. Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & Cattle Use code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

    45 min
  3. Lawfare in Agriculture: The Hidden Threat to American Ranchers with Heather Maude

    May 6

    Lawfare in Agriculture: The Hidden Threat to American Ranchers with Heather Maude

    Takeaways Lawfare is a growing issue impacting farmers and ranchers across AmericaGovernment overreach can have devastating personal and financial consequencesCivic engagement is essential to protect property rights and rural communitiesIn this powerful season premiere, Amanda Radke sits down with rancher Heather Maude to discuss her family’s legal battle with federal agencies over a land dispute that escalated into felony charges. Heather shares how their case became a national example of lawfare in agriculture, the emotional toll it took on her family, and how they ultimately fought back. The episode also explores broader concerns about government accountability, property rights, and the importance of staying engaged in policy decisions that impact rural America. Key Topics Covered: Heather Maude’s legal battle with the USDA and US Forest ServiceThe concept and real-world impact of lawfare in agricultureProperty rights and federal overreachThe role of political leadership and accountabilityAdvocacy efforts to protect rural landownersThe importance of civic engagement in shaping policyRebuilding life and finding normalcy after a public legal battleFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms. Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & Cattle Use code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

    39 min
  4. Introducing "Sizzle: The Salty Steak Podcast"

    May 1 ·  Bonus

    Introducing "Sizzle: The Salty Steak Podcast"

    Takeaways Premium American beef delivers a superior experience worth investing inBid on Beef empowers consumers to choose quality, ranch, and priceSupporting ranchers strengthens families, communities, and food systemsIn this inaugural episode of Sizzle: The Salty Steak Show, host Amanda Radke sits down with Chris Earl, owner of Bid On Beef, CK6 Consulting, and Reverse Rocking R Ranch, to explore the revolutionary concept behind Bid on Beef. Together, they discuss how this innovative auction platform allows consumers to buy premium, all-American beef directly from vetted ranchers. Chris shares the inspiration behind the business, rooted in family, faith, and the desire to create meaningful food experiences. Together, they unpack the challenges facing the beef industry, the importance of quality over cost, and how reconnecting consumers to producers can transform the food system. Presented by Bid on Beef | Redmond RealSalt Use code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

    36 min
  5. Stop the Fighting on the Way to the Funeral Home with Jolene Brown [REPLAY]

    Apr 29

    Stop the Fighting on the Way to the Funeral Home with Jolene Brown [REPLAY]

    One of agriculture’s greatest treasures, a champion for farmers and ranchers, an Iowa farmer, and my dear friend, Jolene Brown joins me on the show to discuss how we can better plan for the future, avoid common pitfalls, and prepare for success in our family businesses. Grab a pen and paper to take notes; you’re going to want to listen to this valuable episode twice! Presented by CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Meats by Linz | Linz Heritage Angus | Redmond Real Salt https://amandaradke.com/

    41 min
  6. Getting in the Arena with Kim Bremmer [REPLAY]

    Apr 22

    Getting in the Arena with Kim Bremmer [REPLAY]

    Kim Bremmer, of Ag Inspirations, joins me to talk about the challenges facing family farms, how to get involved, and the best tips for pushing back against government overreach. Presented by CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Meats by Linz |Linz Heritage Angus | Redmond RealSalt

    41 min
  7. Redmond Real Salt for People & Livestock with Karson Rippstein

    Apr 15

    Redmond Real Salt for People & Livestock with Karson Rippstein

    Healthy land. Healthy cattle. Healthy people. That’s the focus of today’s show with podcast partner, Redmond Real Salt. I’m joined by Redmond’s Karson Rippstein to talk all things cattle, soil, and steak. https://redmond.life/collections/real-salt?srsltid=AfmBOoqiByDHJb1AlUIYL6CBu9CfbcNq8nLj22k6GWq3QUTdofxX_JwV Presented by CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Meats by Linz | Linz Heritage Angus | Redmond RealSalt

    39 min
  8. Battling Washington DC’s Overreach with SD Senator Mark Lapka [REPLAY]

    Apr 8

    Battling Washington DC’s Overreach with SD Senator Mark Lapka [REPLAY]

    In this powerful episode of The Heart of Rural America, Amanda Radke sits down with South Dakota landowner Senator Mark Lapka to discuss the growing controversy around carbon pipelines, federal eminent domain, and the far-reaching implications of HR 4135. The conversation unpacks how 45Q tax credits may be placing a financial burden on taxpayers, why many in agriculture are skeptical of carbon sequestration efforts, and how grassroots movements in South Dakota are rising up to protect property rights. Mark shares firsthand insights on the importance of preserving local control and urges citizens to get involved, stay informed, and make their voices heard in the face of federal overreach. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rural land rights and the future of American agriculture. Key Takeaways: HR 4135 has sparked widespread concern over the expansion of federal eminent domain powers.South Dakotans are uniting to protect local control and property rights from outside influence.The 45Q carbon capture tax credits shift financial burdens onto taxpayers with little local benefit.Carbon pipelines and sequestration plans are being met with growing resistance in rural communities.Transparency and citizen engagement are crucial when it comes to federal legislation affecting landowners.This issue extends beyond South Dakota — it reflects national tensions over land use and government power.Grassroots advocacy is playing a pivotal role in defending rural voices and resisting federal oversight.The political landscape in South Dakota is evolving, with more leaders prioritizing landowner rights.Mark Lapka encourages citizens to contact their legislators and take an active role in policy conversations.The episode highlights the importance of staying informed and organized in the fight for rural America.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & Cattle Use code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.com Save on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/ Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-books

    33 min
See All (153)

Trailer

4.9
out of 5
45 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Heart of Rural America podcast. I’m your host, Amanda Radke ​-- a South Dakota cattle rancher, wife, mom of four, children’s book author, and motivational speaker. I started this show with a simple goal in mind -- to share the untold stories of the often-overlooked independent farmer and rancher. On this program, We’ll discuss the challenges that face rural America and the anti-animal agriculture agenda that seeks to eliminate our way of life. But in the face of these ongoing battles, we’ll explore impactful solutions and meaningful pathways to profitability in order to keep producers on the land, to safeguard our private property rights, and to keep meat, dairy, and eggs on the dinner table. And in stark contrast to the ugly, divisive headlines in today’s mainstream media, "The Heart of Rural America" will celebrate the faith, family values, patriotism, and work ethic of the incredible people I meet in my travels as an agricultural speaker. I hope you’ll be inspired by these agricultural entrepreneurs and rural families, just as I am. Now let’s hit the dusty trail together as we uncover The Heart of Rural America. - Amanda

Information

  • Creator
    Amanda Radke
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    153
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Amanda Radke 2023
  • Show Website
    The Heart of Rural America

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