The Heart of Rural America
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 produ...
100 Years on the Range, Then the State Came Knocking: Casey Murph's Fight for His Family's Ranch
Takeaways
Casey Murph explains how Orsted, a Denmark-based wind and solar conglomerate, applied to take over the Arizona state grazing allotment his family has ranched for more than 100 years, and why he refused to give the company access through his private land.Casey makes the case that a full transition to renewable energy is not physically possible, pointing to the Nature Conservancy's Power of Place report, and argues for nuclear power and rooftop or parking lot solar instead of converting working rangeland.Amanda and Casey break down what any landowner can actually do when a company or government...Why Your "No" Has to Be a No: Fanchon Stinger on Discerning God's Voice
Takeaways
Fanchon Stinger shares how learning to hear a clear "no" from God, even when everyone around her said "run for office," kept her out of a season she now believes would have been disastrous.After becoming the target of media attacks meant to mischaracterize her, Fanchon walked through a four step process, cling, focus, fight, and share, that turned the experience into a testimony instead of bitterness.Fanchon and Amanda dig into why so many young women today say they lack joy and purpose, and why Fanchon believes the next generation needs a foundation of faith, not...10 Ways to Build Wealth, Opportunity, and Legacy in Rural America
Takeaways
Action beats perfection. You don't need the perfect business plan, website, or logo — you need to start, and you can start in the next 30 days.Diversified income isn't a betrayal of "real" farming or ranching. 80% of farm families already have a spouse working off-farm, and stacking revenue streams (agritourism, direct sales, speaking, content, equipment rentals) is smart, not lesser.The strongest rural businesses are built on story and relationships, not just product. People buy the family, the faith, the failures, and the legacy behind what you sell — then they buy direct, because they crave the connection.In t...
Homesteading for Beginners: How to Raise Food, Teach Kids, and Build a Self-Sufficient Life
Takeaways
Why learning to grow food and understand agriculture builds stronger families and communities.How homesteading teaches resilience, critical thinking, entrepreneurship, and practical life skills.Simple first steps anyone can take toward becoming more self-sufficient without changing their entire lifestyle.Summary of the Episode
What happens when a food safety expert, homesteader, and educator decides to reinvent the way families learn about agriculture?
In this inspiring conversation, Amanda sits down with Kody Hanner, founder of Homestead Education, to discuss the growing movement toward self-sufficiency, homeschooling, and reconnecting families with where their food comes...
SD Property Rights Discussion Part 2 Featuring Governor Larry Rhoden | Hosted by American Land & Legacy
Takeaways
Governor Rhoden signed HB 1052 and gave a direct, unambiguous answer when asked if he would uphold it against any attempt to amend or repeal it in the upcoming legislative session: yes.Rhoden does not support special tax exemptions or deals for data centers, but he did sign the Data Center Bill of Rights for Citizens carried by Senator Carr and Speaker Hansen, which requires data centers to prove they won't negatively impact South Dakota's water supply or electricity rates.Rhoden points to a decades-long record on property rights, including leading the charge after the 2005 Kelo v. New...SD Property Rights Discussion Part 1 Featuring Toby Doeden | Hosted by American Land & Legacy
Takeaways
Toby Doeden opposes any attempt to repeal HB 1052 and has promised the fastest veto in South Dakota history if a repeal ever reaches his desk as governor.On the question of a compromise threshold for eminent domain projects, Doeden is firm: when it comes to God-given constitutional rights, there is no wiggle room and no compromise.Doeden believes true economic development in South Dakota doesn't require multi-billion dollar subsidized projects. It comes from supporting local entrepreneurs, small businesses, farmers, and ranchers.Coming off a first-place finish in the June 2nd Republican primary with 31% of the vote...
From Budweiser Clydesdales to Entrepreneurship: Building a Rural Experience Business
Takeaways
Why creativity and diversification are essential for keeping families profitable in agricultureHow JFP Equine transformed Clydesdales into a unique experiential business modelWhy opening your farm gates can strengthen connections between consumers and agricultureThe marketing strategies helping a small rural business attract visitors from across the countryHow entrepreneurship creates opportunities on even small acreage operationsBarclay Poole takes listeners behind the scenes of JFP Equine and explains how his family built an immersive Clydesdale experience business around some of agriculture’s most iconic animals. Listeners will hear stories from the Budweiser Clydesdale operation, learn what ma...
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, ho...
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.
<...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 ac...
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...
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/
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
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
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...
Stand Your Ground with SD Speaker of the House Jon Hansen, Speaker Pro Tem Karla Lems & Senator Mark Lapka [REPLAY]
Following the conclusion of South Dakota's 100th legislative session, I travel to the Siouxland Republican Women's Meeting in Sioux Falls, SD, joined by South Dakota Speaker of the House Jon Hansen, Speaker Pro Tem Karla Lems & Senator Mark Lapka to discuss the passage of HB1052 to eliminate eminent domain for carbon pipelines and how South Dakota is serving as a beacon of hope for the rest of the nation.
Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | By-O-Reg+ | Dirt Road Radio
Save on Redmond Real Salt with code...
Motherhood, Entrepreneurship, & Juggling The Chaos Of It All with Courtney Coughlin [REPLAY]
Amanda sits down with her sister, Courtney Coughlin, to discuss faith, family, entrepreneurship, juggling it all, and how to find opportunities in agriculture in unique and exciting ways.
Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | By-O-Reg+ | Dirt Road Radio
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
Ranching on the Front Lines: Border Security Realities with Erica Valdez {REPLAY]
In this episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke speaks with Erica Valdez, a rancher with experience on border issues, about the changing dynamics of border crossings and their impact on ranching communities. Valdez shares her experiences of the increasing dangers posed by drug traffickers and the misconceptions perpetuated by mainstream media. The conversation highlights the importance of education and advocacy for rural communities affected by border security issues.
Takeaways
Erica Valdez shares her experiences as a rancher near the Mexican border.The nature of border crossings has changed significantly over the years...Grit and Grace with Fanchon Stinger [REPLAY]
Fanchon Stinger is the Emmy winning co-host of PBR Now and a contributor to Western Sports Roundup and NFR Tailgate airing on Cowboy Channel and PlutoTV. She is an actress who appeared on God’s Not Dead: A Light In Darkness in 2019. In 2020, Stinger became a bull owner in PBR (Professional Bull Riders), partnering with 12-time Stock Contractor of the Year Chad Berger and Daniel & Melissa Brunner in the ownership of the bucking bulls “Stinger” and “Lill Hott,” who compete on the PBR Tour. In 2021, she co-founded and launched the charitable initiative Grit & Grace Nation, inspiring middle and high school gir...
The Heart of the Farm: Family, Finances & Facing the Hard Stuff Head On with Jolene Brown
In this episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke welcomes back esteemed guest Jolene Brown, a nationally recognized speaker known for her expertise in supporting farm and ranch families. The discussion revolves around the unique challenges faced by agricultural families, particularly the balance of personal relationships and farm responsibilities. Jolene shares stories and advice on maintaining mental health, effective communication, financial planning, and the importance of support systems within rural communities. She emphasizes the need for humor, appreciating personal contributions, and having realistic strategies for family farms. The episode provides invaluable insights for ensuring both the...
Livestock & Property Rights Rally at BHSS Part 2 Featuring Shad Sullivan
Takeaways
Why Shad Sullivan believes the “war on beef” is really a fight over independent production and private property rightsHow ESG and “sustainable development” frameworks can translate into top-down pressure on agricultureWhat EID/RFID traceability rules could mean for data ownership, markets, and the future of independent ranchingShad Sullivan joins Amanda Radke on The Heart of Rural America to explain why debates over beef production, climate narratives, and traceability mandates are, in his view, part of a much larger conflict over freedom and property rights. Drawing from personal experience—including a major land seizure his family...
Livestock & Property Rights Rally at BHSS Part 1 Featuring Charles & Heather Maude
In this powerful episode recorded at the Black Hills Stock Show Property Rights Rally hosted by the South Dakota Stock Growers Association, Amanda Radke shares highlights from a day focused on one of the most urgent issues facing rural Americans: property rights.
The episode features remarks from Charles and Heather Maude, who recount their family’s deeply personal and highly publicized property rights battle involving a fence line dispute, federal criminal charges, and a long road to resolution. They share what they learned, how their case was finally resolved, and why they are now committed to helping pr...
Deregulating Beef Inspections To Connect Producers To Consumers with SD Rep. John Shubeck
Rep. John Shubeck speaks about his new bill, HB1064, to "provide for the sale of producer-raised meat and meat food products directly to consumers pending legalization under federal law," which passed the House and Senate with a veto-proof majority.
Cattle industry divided over lab-grown and direct-to-consumer meat legislation: https://southdakotasearchlight.com/2026/02/06/cattle-industry-divided-over-lab-grown-and-direct-to-consumer-meat-legislation/Read more about HB1064: https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/26577Learn more about the Prime Act here: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4700Follow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture...
BREAKING: SD Cowboy Gov. Larry Rhoden VETOES Cell Cultured Protein Ban with Rep. Julie Auch
South Dakota Representative Julie Auch talks about her bill to "consider a cultivated-protein food product to be adulterated food." This bill passed through the House and Senate before ultimately being vetoed by SD Gov. Larry Rhoden.
A new bill on "fake meat" is still in play for the 2026 legislative session, SB 124, which Gov. Rhoden is calling a "compromise." Learn more about this topic that is happening in real time in this week's episode.
Read the bill HB1077 here: https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/26999Read Governor Larry Rhoden's statement here: https://news.sd.gov/news?id=news...Radke Land and Cattle Second Annual Bull Sale Preview: Genetics, Grit, and Giving Back
In this special episode of The Heart of Rural America, host Amanda Radke is joined by her husband, Tyler Radke, for a behind-the-scenes preview of their second annual President’s Day Bull Sale at Radke Land & Cattle, located just north of Mitchell, South Dakota.
Whether you’re a rancher looking to invest in elite Angus and Limousin genetics, a fan of rural entrepreneurship, or just love a great story of resilience and family legacy—this episode delivers.
Takeaways:
What makes the 2026 bull sale offering truly unique: age-advantage Angus bulls, standout yearlings, and elite donor geneti...12 Game-Changing Strategies for Rural Business Growth in 2026
In this powerful solo episode of The Heart of Rural America, host Amanda Radke shares 12 actionable strategies designed to help small business owners, rural entrepreneurs, and family farmers succeed in 2026. From understanding your business financials to building a brand rooted in authenticity and faith, Amanda lays out a roadmap for sustainable, values-based growth.
If you're ready to scale your business, streamline your systems, and lead with clarity and purpose this year, don’t miss this value-packed episode—complete with a free downloadable PDF checklist to help you take immediate action.
What You'll Learn in This Epis...
South Dakota Property Rights Rally: A Fight for Freedom and Family
Amanda Radke hosts a property rights rally at the Capitol Rotunda, South Dakota, highlighting the importance of property ownership and the ongoing fight to protect landowners from eminent domain for private gain. The event features speeches from several key figures, including Senator Mykala Voita, Attorney General Marty Jackley, and Senator Mark Lapka who announce a new constitutional amendment to prohibit eminent domain for private gain. The rally celebrates past victories while rallying support for continued efforts to safeguard property rights, emphasizing the unity and determination of South Dakota farmers and ranchers in defending their land and freedoms.
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Senator Mark Lapka's Bold Plan to Protect Rural Landowners from Eminent Domain
In this powerful episode of The Heart of Rural America, host Amanda Radke welcomes back Senator Mark Lapka of South Dakota for a no-holds-barred conversation on property rights, grassroots activism, and groundbreaking legislation that could reshape the future for rural landowners.
Fresh off a record-breaking rally at the South Dakota Capitol, Senator Lapka shares exclusive insights on two major legislative efforts:
👉 HJR 5001 – A proposed constitutional amendment that would ban eminent domain for private gain in South Dakota, protecting landowners from seizure by private corporations.
👉 SB 88 – The Bosley Bill – Named after farmer Jared Bosley, this bill ad...
Delegating, Ditching & Doing: Calli Thorne’s Mindset for Rural Business Success
In this first episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast for 2026, host Amanda Radke reconnects with her friend Calli Thorne, a ranch mom, entrepreneur, and fellow speaker. They discuss the challenges and rewards of operating a USDA federally-inspected beef plant named Yellowstone River Beef, their experiences in the cattle industry, and the importance of a positive mindset in overcoming business obstacles. Calli shares her strategies for balancing multiple responsibilities, including motherhood, business, and public speaking, by using a method of delegating or ditching tasks to focus on what truly matters. The episode delves into themes of entrepreneurship, leadership...
Entrepreneurship in 2026: Trends, Predictions & Practical Advice for Women
In this episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, host Amanda Radke welcomes her middle sister, Courtney Coughlin, a businesswoman, entrepreneur, and homeschooling mother of four. They discuss Courtney's various ventures, including her boutique CCXO and her cut flower business, Three Sisters Blooms. The sisters reflect on the importance of family, faith, and community, and share their predictions for business trends in 2026. They also offer practical advice for female entrepreneurs, emphasizing the value of authenticity, intentionality, and habit stacking. The episode concludes with a look ahead to 2026 and a special surprise for listeners.
00:00 Introduction and Special...
Resilience, Faith, and the Future of American Beef with Chris Earl
In this episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke welcomes back Chris Earl of CK6 Consulting to discuss the current state of the American beef industry. They review the past year's sales and reflect on the significant improvements in beef pricing for producers. Chris shares his insights on the economic and political factors that are shaping the industry, the importance of resilience, and the fundamental role of faith in his personal and professional life. They also delve into their collaborative projects like Bid on Beef and the All American Angus Beef brand. Chris emphasizes the essential...
Is There Room On The Farm For A Child In Need? With Jessi Grote [REPLAY]
t’s been said that the farm and ranch is the best place to raise children. As a mom of four kids, I feel so blessed to be able to teach kids about life, faith, family, community, and being true stewards of the land, livestock, and the people around them through the avenue of raising cattle.A calling from God led Tyler and I to become licensed foster parents in 2019, and since then, we’ve had a dozen kids come and go on the ranch. It’s been a humbling experience and a shared family mission that has taught us ple...
Women in Agritourism and Veterinary Medicine: Insights from Cowgirl Confident
In this episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, host Amanda Radke visits Cowgirl Confident in Afton, Oklahoma to explore key topics in agritourism and veterinary practice. Amanda interviews Arielle Honovich from Ridge Ranch, NY, about her journey into livestock breeding and agritourism near New York City. Arielle shares valuable insights on managing farm operations, handling visitors, and the importance of adapting business strategies to local opportunities. Next, Dr. Mindy Mayfield, an Oklahoma veterinarian, discusses her seminar 'Chute-side with Dr. Mindy,' focusing on practical knowledge for new cattle producers and the unique challenges faced by female vets...
Empowering Rural Entrepreneurs: Taylor Blake's Viral Success with Knuckle Bump Farms
In this episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke highlights Taylor Blake, a viral social media sensation and a Florida farm girl at Knuckle Bump Farms. Taylor shares her journey of merging her love for farming and social media, starting with her viral TikTok video featuring her emu, Emmanuel. She discusses the importance of authenticity, consistency, and finding unique content from everyday farm life. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of community, mentorship, and supporting fellow entrepreneurs in the agriculture industry. Taylor offers practical advice for rural entrepreneurs looking to build their brand and monetize their...
Bulletproof Your Direct-to-Consumer Beef Business
Learn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business
In this solo episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke dives deep into the logistics and strategies behind building a successful direct-to-consumer beef business. Sponsored by Reverse Rocking R Ranch, the episode begins with the promotion of their annual bull and female sale.
Amanda recounts the journey of launching bidonbeef.com, an auction platform for premium American Angus beef, discusses lessons learned, and highlights the significance of marketing, quality assurance, and distribution. She introduces her new 'Bulletproof Your Beef...
Inside the Pocatello Land Grab with Dave Duquette of Western Justice
In this compelling episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, host Amanda Radke brings back guest Dave Duquette of Western Justice. Duquette discusses his latest documentary on property rights titled 'The Great Pocatello Land Grab,' which reveals the forced annexation of historic ranches in Pocatello, Idaho, and exposes corrupt developer schemes. The conversation also covers broader issues in rural America, such as the challenges of protecting family farms from urban encroachment and rights violations, the controversial federal management of wolves, and the dire situation of wild horses and burros on public lands. Duquette emphasizes the importance of...
Fixing the Beef Market: What the USDA Is Getting Wrong
In this episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, host Amanda Radke discusses the impact of misapplied USDA regulations on American cattle producers with guests Robert Groom and Patrick Robinette. They delve into historical policy changes and the negative effects on the market, explaining how existing laws, if correctly enforced, could benefit U.S. cattle producers by ensuring proper labeling and fair competition. The conversation also includes insights into the American Angus Convention and a call to action for more advocacy and awareness about these issues.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:58 Meet the Guests: Robert...
How the New Beef Plan Supports Family Ranches with Tate Bennett
Host Amanda Radke sits down with Tate Bennett, Director of Rural Policy at the America First Policy Institute, to unpack a newly announced USDA plan presented by Secretary Brooke Rollins that aims to fortify the U.S. beef supply, rebuild capacity, lower consumer costs, and keep family ranchers on the land. They discuss why cattle producers reacted to recent pricing comments, what the plan actually proposes, and how ranchers can keep shaping policy from the ground up. Amanda also shares an encouraging win for property rights: New Jersey’s 175-year-old Henry family farm is no longer under threat of em...
Beef, Bezos, and the Battle for Agriculture’s Future: Insights from Chris Earl [Part 2]
In the second part of this special episode, Amanda Radke and her guest Chris Earl discuss crucial topics facing the American beef industry. They explore the upcoming American Angus Association's annual convention in Kansas City, touching upon the expected delegate vote and the association's new partnership with Jeff Bezos on methane and emission studies. They heavily emphasize the importance of advocacy by ranchers, staying true to traditional values, and the need for a free and fair market. Chris shares his thoughts on the flaws in current agricultural policies, the negative impact of climate change narratives, and the necessity for...
Trump’s Beef Comments: What They Mean for Ranchers and Rural America with Chris Earl
In this episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke and Chris Earl discuss the implications of recent comments made by President Donald Trump regarding beef pricing. They explore the challenges faced by ranchers, the role of government in agriculture, and the importance of advocating for the beef industry. The conversation delves into the genetics of beef production, the monopolization of the beef market, and the need for localized processing facilities. The episode emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness and the necessity for ranchers to stand up for their interests in a changing agricultural landscape.
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