Rural Realities

Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
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Given the ongoing challenges facing the agriculture industry – low prices, uncertain markets, trade uncertainty, and inclement weather - it’s no surprise that farmers and farm families are experiencing more stress. “Rural Realities” focuses on helping farmers tap into their resilient nature by presenting advice from experts that can help reduce stress, improve a farm’s financial situation, implement good farm family communication skills, and more. ***The department is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of department policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the department. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by department employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of the department or any of its officials. If you have any questions about this disclaimer, please contact our Department’s General Counsel.

  1. Preventing Scams and Fraud During the Holidays

    12/05/2025

    Preventing Scams and Fraud During the Holidays

    This episode digs into a topic that’s a little different from Rural Realities’ usual content, but it’s something that affects us all and can be especially relevant during the holidays: consumer protection. Michelle Reinen, the Administrator of DATCP’s Division of Trade and Consumer Protection, joins the Wisconsin Farm Center’s Karen Endres to discuss seasonal consumer protection issues and tips to prevent scams and fraud. From safe online shopping to grocery store and gas station inspections, learn more about protecting yourself, your family, and your business – and what DATCP is doing to ensure a safe, fair holiday season for Wisconsin consumers. Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at (800) 942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.  If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at (888) 901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.

    31 min
  2. Protect Yourself and Your Farm Business This Holiday Season

    11/24/2025

    Protect Yourself and Your Farm Business This Holiday Season

    We are resharing this episode as we approach Black Friday and Cyber Monday! This episode digs into a topic that’s a little different from Rural Realities’ usual content, but it’s something that affects us all and can be especially relevant during the holidays: consumer protection. The Wisconsin Farm Center’s Karen Endres sat down with Michelle Reinen, Division Administrator for the Division of Consumer Protection at the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, to talk about scams that can affect small businesses--including farms--and consumers, and how we can protect ourselves. Michelle shares some tips about scam prevention, digital security, charitable giving, buying gift cards, and more.  Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at 800-942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.  If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at 888-901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.

    39 min
  3. Connecting with Farmers Online

    11/12/2025

    Connecting with Farmers Online

    Tom Moos and Deb Jakubek are the peer leaders for the Wisconsin Farm Center’s “Rural Relations” Online Support Group. “Rural Relations” is an online group for Wisconsin farmers and their families that is a safe space to share resources, encouragement, and advice while reducing stigma around difficult issues. It also offers participants practical guidance and tools to improve farm communications and relationships. In this episode, Tom and Deb connect with Wisconsin Farm Center’s Karen Endres to talk about how this group started, and how it supports and connects farmers across the state. Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at (800) 942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.  If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at (888) 901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.

    28 min
  4. You’re Not Alone, Part 2: Suicide Prevention in Rural Communities with the Farmer Angel Network

    10/27/2025

    You’re Not Alone, Part 2: Suicide Prevention in Rural Communities with the Farmer Angel Network

    Dorothy Harms and Vicky Meinholz, two of the leaders of the Farmer Angel Network, continue their conversation with the Wisconsin Farm Center’s Karen Endres about suicide prevention and the importance of hope in rural communities. Farmer Angel Network was created after the loss of Dorothy and Vicki’s friend, Leon Statz, who died by suicide. Since then, the two have dedicated themselves to supporting farmer mental health through education, outreach, and unique community events.  Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at (800) 942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.  If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at (888) 901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.

    22 min
  5. You’re Not Alone, Part 1: Suicide Prevention in Rural Communities with the Farmer Angel Network

    10/17/2025

    You’re Not Alone, Part 1: Suicide Prevention in Rural Communities with the Farmer Angel Network

    Dorothy Harms and Vicky Meinholz, two of the leaders of the Farmer Angel Network, join “Rural Realities” to share their story and mission. The network was created after the loss of their friend, Leon Statz, who died by suicide. Since then, Dorothy and Vicky have dedicated themselves to supporting farmer mental health through education, outreach, and unique community events. In this episode, they connect with Wisconsin Farm Center’s Karen Endres to talk about suicide prevention and the importance of hope in rural communities. Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at (800) 942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.  If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at (888) 901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.

    28 min
  6. "Suicide & Mental Health are REAL Problems on the Farm” with Sara Kohlbeck, Director of the Division of Suicide Prevention at the Medical College of Wisconsin

    09/10/2025

    "Suicide & Mental Health are REAL Problems on the Farm” with Sara Kohlbeck, Director of the Division of Suicide Prevention at the Medical College of Wisconsin

    In September each year we recognize world suicide prevention day on September 10.  In recognizing this we are sharing a previous episode with Dr. Sara Kohlbeck, a suicide prevention advocate.  Farmers and their families constantly experience business challenges that can lead to additional stress, mental health issues, and even suicide. Sara Kohlbeck, a suicide prevention advocate, discusses why we are seeing a higher rate of suicide among farmers with the Farm Center’s Karen Endres. They look at the research Sara has been doing, why farmers are at a higher risk for suicide, and available trainings for Wisconsinites looking to become more comfortable reaching out to someone struggling emotionally.  Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at 800-942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.  If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at 888-901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.

    31 min
  7. Supporting Wisconsin Agriculture: Inside the Wisconsin Farm Center with JoAnn Peterson

    08/20/2025

    Supporting Wisconsin Agriculture: Inside the Wisconsin Farm Center with JoAnn Peterson

    JoAnn Peterson's passion for Wisconsin agriculture runs deep—from her roots in a Wisconsin farm family to her current role as an Ag Program Specialist at the Wisconsin Farm Center. Whether educating young people about farming, helping producers evaluate their financials, or connecting farmers with essential resources, JoAnn has dedicated her professional life to strengthening rural communities across the state. In this episode, she opens up about her agricultural upbringing and the journey that led her to become a champion for farmers in need of support and guidance. Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at 800-942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.  If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at 888-901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.

    18 min
  8. "Building Trust as a Foundation for Assisting with Transition Planning” with Nikki Lennart, New Wisconsin Farm Center Team Member

    07/30/2025

    "Building Trust as a Foundation for Assisting with Transition Planning” with Nikki Lennart, New Wisconsin Farm Center Team Member

    From working with beginning farmers to helping farmers navigate the process of transferring farms from one generation to the next or transitioning from one type of agriculture to another, Nikki Lennart is ready for the call.  Nikki joined the Wisconsin Farm Center team in June as an Ag Program Specialist. She connected with her colleague, Karen Endres, to discuss her unique background and her approach to her new role.    Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at 800-942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.   If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at 888-901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.

    17 min
See All (45)

About

Given the ongoing challenges facing the agriculture industry – low prices, uncertain markets, trade uncertainty, and inclement weather - it’s no surprise that farmers and farm families are experiencing more stress. “Rural Realities” focuses on helping farmers tap into their resilient nature by presenting advice from experts that can help reduce stress, improve a farm’s financial situation, implement good farm family communication skills, and more. ***The department is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of department policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the department. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by department employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of the department or any of its officials. If you have any questions about this disclaimer, please contact our Department’s General Counsel.

Information

  • Creator
    Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    45
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Rural Realities
  • Show Website
    Rural Realities