Farmstrong

Ryan Armstrong

Few things connect people faster than food. For host Ryan Armstrong, it’s the stories of the people behind the food that hit deepest — their family legacies, how they made it through the tough times and how they celebrate the good times. This podcast will give you a face behind the food. It uncovers the honest and proud stories of the fascinating yet little-known sectors of the agriculture industry.

  1. MAR 11

    Supporting Agricultural Freedom and Small Farms - Episode 12 | Like Wildflowers Homestead

    Supporting Agricultural Freedom and Small Farms — An Interview with Jayce Vaughn of Like Wildflowers Homestead In this episode, Jayce Vaughn shares her journey from homesteading for family food to running a thriving raw milk and goat dairy operation. We explore the challenges small farmers face with regulation, the power of community and social media, and why defending our food freedoms is critical for the future of agriculture. Key Topics Jayce's background and how she started her homestead in 2018The demand for raw milk and the growth of her herd, including goats and registered cowsThe differences between raw milk and store-bought pasteurized milkCommon misconceptions about additives and the pasteurization processHow Jayce’s operation expanded mostly through word of mouth and social mediaThe importance of not demonizing production farmers; understanding systemic issuesThe legal battles facing small farms and the private membership model (PMA)Overregulation in agriculture and its impact on emerging farmers and food choice freedomsThe significance of grassroots activism, community support, and social media in advocacyJayce’s role in fighting legal overreach and her collaboration with constitutional organizationsThe emotional and financial toll of legal challenges and the importance of support networks Resources: Florida Farm List Georgia Grown Fresh from Florida Community Cannery Locations Florida Young Farmer and Rancher Resources Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Questions or guest ideas? Email farmstrongpodcast@gmail.com Follow or subscribe to the show so you don't miss an episode! We'd really appreciate if you would leave a review — please leave a sentence, not just stars. That helps others find the podcast so they can put a face behind their food. Work hard. Be honest. Speak proudly.

    1h 2m

  2. MAR 4

    Episode 10 - The Mulberry Tree App - Francine

    Most people don't realize how much their food has changed, or how disconnected we've become from our farmers and the land. Francine and Ryan reveal a revolutionary app that restores control to farmers, creates transparency, and reconnects communities through local food systems—an urgent shift needed in America now more than ever.In this eye-opening episode, Francine shares her inspiring journey from facing life-altering health challenges to building The Mulberry Tree app—an innovative platform designed to empower local farmers and rebuild trust in our food supply. You'll discover how her family's resilience, faith, and commitment to integrity have created a movement that counters the corruption and nonsense of big agri-business, fraudulent labeling, and the decline of small farms. We break down: The hidden truths behind food fraud and supermarket shortcuts that leave most Americans malnourished and unawareHow farmer-to-consumer platforms like Mulberry Tree fight back against the corporate food cartelThe ripple effects from buying local—better health, stronger communities, and a cleaner environmentStrategies to revive small farming amidst a system designed to squeeze out the little guyThe spiritual and cultural significance of farming, faith, and gratitude in today's disconnected worldIf you're tired of generic grocery store food, confused by confusing labels, or worried about the future of farming in America, this episode is essential. Francine’s raw honesty, family stories, and radical optimism will reignite your belief in real food, real farmers, and the power of grassroots change. Whether you're a farmer, a parent, or a consumer ready to take back control—this episode will inspire you to see the bigger picture and act. Guest Francine is a lifelong farmer turned innovator, dedicated to restoring authenticity and sovereignty in food systems. Her family’s story of overcoming adversity to create a farm, a community, and a movement exemplifies the American spirit of resilience, faith, and ingenuity. Get ready to challenge your assumptions, reconnect with your roots, and support local farms—because the future of America's food depends on us.  This is more than a podcast—it's a call to action Resources: Florida Farm List Georgia Grown Fresh from Florida Community Cannery Locations Florida Young Farmer and Rancher Resources Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Questions or guest ideas? Email farmstrongpodcast@gmail.com Follow or subscribe to the show so you don't miss an episode! We'd really appreciate if you would leave a review — please leave a sentence, not just stars. That helps others find the podcast so they can put a face behind their food. Work hard. Be honest. Speak proudly.

    1h 15m

  3. MAR 4

    Episode 11 | Michele Curts | How a Simple Letter Changed My Life and Grounded My Leadership Journey

    From Fields to Leadership: A Journey Through Florida Agriculture Join Michele Curts and Ryan Armstrong as they explore their leadership journeys from Florida's strawberry fields to influential roles in agriculture. Discover the impact of youth programs like YF&R, the power of mentorship, and the lessons learned from navigating challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Key Highlights: Michele’s path from farm life to leadership in Florida agriculture. The role of FFA and 4-H in developing early leadership skills. Building relationships and resilience through YF&R. Creative solutions during the pandemic, including virtual conferences. The importance of mentorship and gratitude in leadership. Balancing land conservation with development pressures. Celebrate the journey of leadership and growth in Florida agriculture, and learn how youth programs shape future leaders. Resources: Florida Farm List Georgia Grown Fresh from Florida Community Cannery Locations Florida Young Farmer and Rancher Resources Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Questions or guest ideas? Email farmstrongpodcast@gmail.com Follow or subscribe to the show so you don't miss an episode! We'd really appreciate if you would leave a review — please leave a sentence, not just stars. That helps others find the podcast so they can put a face behind their food. Work hard. Be honest. Speak proudly.

    1h 12m

  4. JAN 7

    9 | Kasey Brown: How One Hat and Resilience Can Change Your Life

    In this episode, Kasey Brown and Ryan Armstrong share the stories, tough lessons and laughter that come with building lives and careers in agriculture — both on the farm and behind the scenes. From Kasey Brown’s journey from Indiana stock shows to launching Teal Hat Communications, to Ryan Armstrong’s winding road of solitary drives and citrus fields that led him to podcasting, their conversation highlights the power of “figuring it out” and embracing uncertainty as an act of faith. Together, they discuss how intuition, vulnerability and pushing out of comfort zones shape not just the ag industry, but also personal growth and leadership. Along the way, you’ll hear about cattle genetics, choir concerts for President Bush, and how a teal cowboy hat became Kasey Brown’s business signature. This episode pulls back the curtain on why Farmstrong is committed to giving you the real faces and stories behind your food. In this episode: * Kasey shares how a layoff — and her favorite hat — inspired her to build a business from scratch * Ryan talks about finding purpose and energy by asking tough questions and taking career risks * Insights on community, family legacies, and the many “spokes” that keep agriculture rolling * How Kasey's favorite people in the ag industry marry tradition with cutting edge technology * A candid look at why listening to your inner nudges and being honest (even when awkward) matter so much in ag and in life Quotes to remember: “Everything’s figureout-able if you have the resiliency to learn things and be willing to get out of your comfort zone...” — Kasey Brown “Your calling often whispers — it doesn’t scream at you.” — Ryan Armstrong This conversation proves that behind every farm and every podcast episode, it’s people — with grit, heart, and stories worth telling — who make this industry strong. You can find Kasey at tealhatcommunications.com, on LinkedIn or on Instagram.  Resources: Florida Farm List Georgia Grown Fresh from Florida Community Cannery Locations Florida Young Farmer and Rancher Resources Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Questions or guest ideas? Email farmstrongpodcast@gmail.com Follow or subscribe to the show so you don't miss an episode! We'd really appreciate if you would leave a review — please leave a sentence, not just stars. That helps others find the podcast so they can put a face behind their food. Work hard. Be honest. Speak proudly.

    47 min

  5. 12/10/2025

    8 | Kacee Bohle: Why Surface Level Conversations Are Killing Farming Communities

    Ryan Armstrong sits down with Kacee Bohle, founder of AgriMinds, to dig into the real, often-hidden stresses facing farmers and ag professionals. Rather than talking markets or machinery, the conversation zeros in on burnout, mental health stigmas, and the need for intentional support within agriculture. Kacee shares her journey from the family farm to creating AgriMinds — a community and coaching program that helps ag professionals build resilience, balance and boundaries. She discusses why meaningful change only happens when we move past buzzwords and into deep, honest conversations. Key highlights include: How Kacee’s own struggles led her to build a coaching community for personal growth in ag Why discussing mental health in farming requires the right language — and a willingness to go beyond the surface The AgriMind Summit: a sponsor-free retreat focused on personal transformation The surprising discovery that, in group settings, men in ag open up about emotions more readily than women Thought-provoking Quotes: “Are you willing to get in the combine or the tractor with a farmer and let them be in their element and actually hear what they have to say?” — Kacee Bohle “The women are always the ones…shoving their emotions under the rug because they don’t have the time to talk about emotions…Whereas the guys are like, yeah, this is how I’m feeling, and I’m ready to get it out.” — Kacee Bohle “If you don’t know you’re spiraling, you can’t do anything about it. Having a support system you can reach out to — that’s the goal.” — Kacee Bohle This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the people behind our food. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or practical advice for tackling stress in rural life, Farmstrong brings real talk, vulnerability, and actionable ideas for a healthier, more connected future. Learn more about AgriMinds at kaceebohle.com and find Kaacee on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaceebohle/) or Instagram (@agcoachkacee). Resources: Florida Farm List Georgia Grown Fresh from Florida Community Cannery Locations Florida Young Farmer and Rancher Resources Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Questions or guest ideas? Email farmstrongpodcast@gmail.com Follow or subscribe to the show so you don't miss an episode! We'd really appreciate if you would leave a review — please leave a sentence, not just stars. That helps others find the podcast so they can put a face behind their food. Work hard. Be honest. Speak proudly.

    47 min

  6. 12/08/2025

    Everyone has a seat at this table — Farmstrong Trailer

    Few things connect people faster than food. Listen to authentic conversations with deeply rooted guests like land men, fruit pickers, marketers, plantation owners, photographers, cowboys and everyone in between in this incredibly nuanced agriculture industry. Let’s put a face behind the food.  Everyone has a seat at this table. This podcast uncovers the honest and proud stories of the fascinating yet little-known sectors of the agriculture industry. Follow the Farmstrong podcast anywhere you get your podcasts and tune in on Wednesdays. Resources: Florida Farm List Georgia Grown Fresh from Florida Community Cannery Locations Florida Young Farmer and Rancher Resources Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Questions or guest ideas? Email farmstrongpodcast@gmail.com Follow or subscribe to the show so you don't miss an episode! We'd really appreciate if you would leave a review — please leave a sentence, not just stars. That helps others find the podcast so they can put a face behind their food. Work hard. Be honest. Speak proudly.

    1 min

  7. 11/26/2025

    7 | Laura Conaway: From Cow Pens to Writer and Back — Exploring the Florida Cattle Industry and Beyond

    Laura Conaway joins Ryan Armstrong on Farmstrong for a candid look into Florida’s cattle country and the realities behind the ranching life. Laura talks about growing up in a first-generation cattle family — her parents having built their operation from scratch near Daytona Beach — and the unpredictable nature of working with animals, hurricanes and land development pressures. They unpack riding the line between romanticized portrayals of ranch life (think shows like Yellowstone) and the honest, gritty day-to-day realities of Florida agriculture. Laura shares her journey from ranch kid to writer for Certified Angus Beef®, reflecting on how firsthand experience brings authenticity to agricultural storytelling. The episode is filled with vivid stories of “Florida cracker” heritage, wild cow hunts, competitive meat judging at UF, and why cattle producers are some of the toughest people you’ll meet. Highlights include: Laura’s transition from the cow pens to national storytelling, and why she never saw herself as a “real writer”The pressure facing Florida ranchers from development and changing landscapesThe lessons Laura learned from industry veterans and why failing forward is key in agricultureBehind-the-scenes takes on the meat judging team and the grit it takes to work cattle in the Florida heatThought-provoking Quotes: “The cattle business isn’t just calves in meadows — it’s hurricanes, feed costs, and those moments of beauty that keep you going.” – Laura Conaway “If I hadn’t failed, I wouldn’t be successful.” – Advice Laura heard from restaurant owners and ranchers “Florida is changed so much, but still unchanged — and there are still cowboys cracking whips in the palmetto scrub.” – Ryan Armstrong Tune in for honest stories about rural resilience, the value of telling it like it is, and why agricultural heritage matters more than ever. Resources: Florida Farm List Georgia Grown Fresh from Florida Community Cannery Locations Florida Young Farmer and Rancher Resources Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Questions or guest ideas? Email farmstrongpodcast@gmail.com Follow or subscribe to the show so you don't miss an episode! We'd really appreciate if you would leave a review — please leave a sentence, not just stars. That helps others find the podcast so they can put a face behind their food. Work hard. Be honest. Speak proudly.

    49 min

  8. 11/12/2025

    6 | Dr. Bobby Safranski, Part 2: Lost Arts, Fatherhood Hacks and Why Every Kid Needs Dirt Under Their Nails

    In a continuation of the conversation, Ryan and Dr. Bobby Safranski share honest insights on parenting, legacy and living well in today’s world. From Bobby’s tradition of writing monthly notebook letters to his son, to Ryan’s mission to preserve family stories and revive lost arts, this episode explores how everyday choices shape family — and community — legacy. Together, they discuss the challenges of screen time, the revival of hands-on trades and the importance of teaching kids through example rather than just words. Vulnerability is at the heart of their conversation: both men open up about mental health, fatherhood and building supportive networks in the face of personal and systemic struggles. Highlights: Bobby’s “legacy notebooks” — preserving real life, beyond the screenThe role of YouTube as both a teaching tool and a pitfall for familiesLost arts: canning, cobbling and the value of hands-on skillsWhy it matters to let kids simply be kids — even if it means bending the rulesMental health and fatherhood, and how honest conversations can protect what matters mostThought-provoking Quotes: “I want a book full of all the knowledge we were just talking about so that my son and grandkids know, like, hey, yeah, that works for heartburn. Go get that.” — Bobby Safranski “It’s tangible. It’s real. It’s not just here and gone.” — Ryan Armstrong “Let them be a kid. I don’t want him to be stressed. I want him to be happy.” — Bobby Safranski Resources: Florida Farm List Georgia Grown Fresh from Florida Community Cannery Locations Florida Young Farmer and Rancher Resources Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Questions or guest ideas? Email farmstrongpodcast@gmail.com Follow or subscribe to the show so you don't miss an episode! We'd really appreciate if you would leave a review — please leave a sentence, not just stars. That helps others find the podcast so they can put a face behind their food. Work hard. Be honest. Speak proudly.

    1h 2m
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Trailer

About

Few things connect people faster than food. For host Ryan Armstrong, it’s the stories of the people behind the food that hit deepest — their family legacies, how they made it through the tough times and how they celebrate the good times. This podcast will give you a face behind the food. It uncovers the honest and proud stories of the fascinating yet little-known sectors of the agriculture industry.

Information

  • Creator
    Ryan Armstrong
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Farmstrong
  • Show Website
    Farmstrong