Chris Youngmark, a dedicated volunteer firefighter from Mackinaw, IL, is deeply committed to his community. In addition to his firefighting efforts, Chris has played an active role in fostering small business development. His own business, The Farm Sitter, is a testament to his entrepreneurial sp...

Rob continues the conversation with Steve Archer on the challenges and joys of urban farming.

Steve Archer, a Chicago native, discovered his passion for urban farming at 11 years old when he grew his first pumpkin. That experience ignited a lifelong dedication to sustainable agriculture in city spaces. Today, he tends to his own thriving garden and is an active beekeeper in the heart of C...

James Aikman's journey from the world of banking to wilderness began with a dream and blossomed into a destination. Now co-owner of a 40-acre wildlife park in Arcola, IL, he has transformed his vision into reality, creating a safari adventure home to over 230 animals from 90 different species. He...

Haley Stewart, a talented photographer from Petersburg, IL, has a unique gift for capturing the heart and soul of farm life. Through the lens of her camera, she brings the beauty and charm of rural moments to life. Whether she's on a family farm or at a county fair, Haley considers it an honor to...

Sisters Ava and Delyn share their experiences of growing up on their family farm, where they developed a strong work ethic and deep-rooted values. They've always enjoyed welcoming visitors to the farm, and during their college years, they even launched a goat yoga business. Now both married and w...

In 1996, Alex and Annette found their slice of paradise on a 7-acre farm in Leland, IL, where they laid the foundation for their family’s agricultural journey. Passionate about farm life, and fostering a deep connection with the land. They encouraged their daughters, Ava and Delyn, not only to pu...

Jim and Laura are deeply committed to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities in their community. In Chillicothe, IL, they’ve founded two impactful non-profits that serve both children and adults with disabilities. The first, Blue Ridge Community Farm, and second Picket Fence Fou...

Jim and Laura have a farm just outside of Chillicothe, IL that serves adults and children with disabilities giving them the chance to experience life on the farm in a unique way.

Kristina, was a small town teacher/dreamer who got into training horses by accident. She became a high performance athlete and travels to compete in "Eventing". Her riding school "Eyes Up Equestrian" is a program that has riding opportunities for all ages in Brimfield, IL.

Brandy from Olive Branch, IL, redefines the image of a modern farmer. Facing the challenges of farming along the river, her resilience was put to the test when the levee break of 2016 forever altered her family's farming operation. In this episode, Brandy opens up about her mother's struggle with...

In Sheffield, IL, Elizabeth is a believer in the power of relationships within rural communities. She opened Royal Super Mart, recognizing that a grocery store is vital to the social, physical, and economic well-being of her town. She and her husband, Tim, established Cornerstone, a hub designed ...

Curt, with farm family roots in Jasper and Fayette Counties, Illinois, is an avid hunter and fisherman. Passionate about outdoor safety and environmental education, he teaches 4-H shooting sports, motivated by witnessing several accidents in his youth. Curt believes lifelong passions begin with a...

Amy Lister, a horticulture graduate from Iowa State, first set foot on a farm in college and later married an Iowa farmer. She now works at Hoerr Nursery Garden Center and was a self-employed gardener for 8 years. For Amy, gardening is all about color and offers a way to navigate life's challenges.

Adam Sommer, a 5th-generation farmer in Metamora, IL, has transformed the family farm by opening Evergreen Farm Brewing. Now, they grow hops and brew beer, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like arriving at a friend's gathering. Their motto, "from ground to growler," perfectly captures t...

Amber is a versatile individual balancing many roles professionally as well as personally. Her day job is teaching 6th grade math, focusing on underserved students. On her farm, she raises rare-colored thoroughbred horses, including one that starred as "Silver" in the Lone Ranger movie. An entrep...