"Trading Badges for Tractors": A Lifelong Farming Journey with Don and Karen Massengale

Back to Your Roots

Imagine owning a century farm but also being a full-time civil servant, eventually trading in your badge and uniform for a John Deere tractor and a life on the farm. That’s exactly what our guest, Don Massengale, did when he transitioned from being a firefighter, paramedic, and police officer to embracing the labor and love of farming. In this captivating conversation, Don, alongside his wife Karen, takes us on a journey through their generational farm, exploring the daily grind, the unique challenges of modern farming such as drought, flooding, high interest rates, and soaring land prices.
We also delve into the Massengale’s relationship with River Valley Ag Credit and how it has shaped their farming journey. Discover the role Don plays as a Director at River Valley AgCredit. Find out about the Young, Beginning and Small (YBS) Farm Program, an initiative designed to provide support and opportunity to young, aspiring farmers. The Massengales share their wisdom, their struggles, and their triumphs, offering invaluable advice for those considering a venture into the farming industry. So, buckle up and join us on this farming adventure as we uncover the realities and rewards of farm life, the importance of a supportive partner in this demanding industry, and the joy of watching the growth of life, season after season.

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1. "Trading Badges for Tractors": A Lifelong Farming Journey with Don and Karen Massengale (00:00:00)

2. Farm Credit and Agricultural Challenges Discussion (00:00:07)

3. Century Farm and Farm Life (00:10:57)

4. Importance of Hard Work in Farming (00:18:28)