The Heart of Rural America

In this episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke and Chris Earl discuss the current state of the Angus cattle industry, the importance of independent ranching, and the implications of corporate influence on agriculture.

They emphasize the need for ranchers to tell their stories, market their products effectively, and maintain control over their genetic resources. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Genetic Allies Sale and the importance of community and collaboration among cattle producers.

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.

In this conversation, host Amanda Radke sits down with Jeb Smith, a multi-generational farmer and the president of the Florida Farm Bureau, to unpack the rich history and diverse landscape of Florida agriculture. Together, they discuss the enduring legacy of farming families, the pressures of urbanization, and the fight for water rights in a state facing increasing environmental and economic challenges. From over 300 commodities to the legacy of Florida’s cattle industry, Jeb provides an inside look at the resilience and innovation of the state’s agricultural community. This episode sheds light on the realities of farming in a rapidly changing world and underscores the importance of advocacy, sustainability, and community engagement.

In this episode, Amanda Radke celebrates the two-year anniversary of her podcast, Heart of Rural America. She reflects on her journey from journalism to podcasting, the challenges faced by rural communities, and the importance of faith in her life. Amanda shares her experiences with Beef Magazine, the lessons learned, and her commitment to advocating for independent farmers and ranchers. The episode emphasizes the need for unity and action in the face of challenges in the agricultural sector.

In this episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke discusses the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities, particularly in agriculture. Joined by Senator Mark Lapka and attorney David Begley, they delve into the controversial topics of wind and solar energy, federal subsidies, and the implications of climate change policies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of protecting private property rights and the need for a reliable energy supply, while also critiquing the current energy policies that may not serve the best interests of rural America.

In this episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke interviews Liz May, a representative from South Dakota, who shares her journey from ranching to politics. Liz discusses the challenges faced by the livestock industry, the impact of government policies on agriculture, and the importance of representation for producers. The conversation covers various topics including economic development, the carbon pipeline controversy, and the implications of electronic identification (EID) for cattle ranchers. Liz emphasizes the need for a fair playing field in agriculture and the importance of grassroots advocacy to protect the rights of small business owners in the industry.

In this episode of the Heart of Rural America, Amanda Radke discusses the critical issues surrounding property rights and eminent domain with Brett Tolman, a former U.S. attorney. They explore the Maude family case in South Dakota, the Henry family farm in New Jersey, and the broader implications of government overreach on individual rights. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community advocacy, the role of social media in raising awareness, and the need for legislative changes to protect citizens from unjust government actions.

In this episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast, host Amanda Radke discusses the importance of private property rights, particularly in the context of recent legislative victories in South Dakota. She highlights the grassroots activism that led to the passing of HB 1052, which protects landowners from eminent domain abuses related to carbon sequestration projects. The conversation also delves into the implications of the Fifth Amendment and urges listeners to engage in their communities to safeguard their freedoms and property rights.

In this episode of the Heart of Real America podcast, Amanda Radke interviews Ryan Eichler from the South Dakota Cattlemen's Foundation. They discuss the foundation's origins, its mission to support local communities through initiatives like the Prime Time Gala, and the importance of addressing protein shortages in food banks. Ryan shares insights on the foundation's scholarship programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of cattle producers and highlights innovative research in human nutrition that the foundation is funding. The conversation emphasizes the positive impact of agriculture on rural communities and the importance of collaboration between urban and rural America.

In this episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke celebrates the 100th episode and discusses the journey of direct-to-consumer beef sales with Nebraska cattle rancher Jordan Classen. They explore the Classen family's farming background, the importance of quality beef production, and the challenges and successes of selling at farmers markets. The conversation also touches on consumer preferences, shipping logistics, and the future of family farms in the beef industry, emphasizing the significance of authenticity and community connection in agriculture.

This week Amanda sits down for three separate interviews with Jon Hansen, Karla Lems, and Mark Lapka while in Washington DC as they put their boots to the pavement to meet with as many people as they can to discuss the importance of private property rights as it pertains to The Big Beautiful Bill.