Farmer Features
Ambassador Program
What is the Hungry for Truth Ambassador Program?
The Hungry for Truth Ambassador Program connects consumers with trusted voices in agriculture who share accurate, science-based information about farming and food production. Ambassadors help answer questions, share personal experiences, and build stronger connections between farmers and the communities they serve.
Olivia Essig got a firsthand look at life on a South Dakota farm with Chad Schooley, a fourth-generation farmer. From tagging newborn calves to learning about crop management and family traditions, Olivia explores the dedication, innovation, and pride behind every season on the Schooley farm.
Jack Henry recently visited Todd’s farm through the Hungry for Truth SD Ambassador program, where he experienced firsthand the dedication and hard work that go into farming. From driving a pay loader to hearing Todd’s story of early mornings and years of commitment, the visit offered a deeper appreciation for the people behind our food.
On a crisp fall day in Faulkton, South Dakota, writer Kelsey Steineke joined April and James Bowar in the middle of harvest. From long days in the field to the teamwork that keeps their operation running, the Bowars embody the dedication and heart behind modern farming. Kelsey’s visit offered a glimpse into the balance of family, faith, and community that makes life on the farm so meaningful.
Join YPN Manager Jaci Pieters on a day at the Deinert Family Farm in Mt. Vernon, SD, as she experiences the challenges and joys of farm life firsthand. From caring for cattle and managing crops to learning the value of hard work and community, Jaci gains a newfound appreciation for the dedication that fuels South Dakota agriculture.
Maesa Eschenbaum shares a heartfelt look at resilience, tradition, and modern farming on the Tschetter family farm in Bridgewater, South Dakota.
From growing up on a farm in Gregory, South Dakota to running a food-based business in Sioux Falls, Landi Schweigert has always had a connection to agriculture. But her recent visit to Heine Hybrid Corn Seed in Vermillion opened her eyes to just how far farming has come—and how much intention, innovation, and legacy live behind every seed.
Karlie Solum visits Drew Peterson’s farm to explore generational farming, community leadership, and the passion driving South Dakota agriculture. Learn about agriculture technology and their passion for community involvement.
Brooke Hendrickx explores the legacy of Walt Bones' 4th-generation family farm, highlighting how agribusiness and technology shape their operations, from corn harvest to dairy innovations. Learn about sustainable practices, history, and their commitment to future generations.
Join Ambassador McKensie Sedlacek as she visits Tim Haines' farm near Centerville, SD to learn about harvesting, farming technology, and Tim's passion for agriculture, gaining insights that McKensie will apply in her future as a farm wife.
Join Ambassador Tim Meagher as he visits Bruce Haines' farm near Mitchell, SD. From harvesting soybeans to discussing sustainability and the vital role of farming in the food industry, this journey offers insights into agriculture’s impact on our communities and beyond.
Join our ambassador on a visit to the Wipf family farm in Huron, South Dakota. Discover how Brandon Wipf combines tradition with modern innovation to keep his family's farming legacy thriving. Explore the use of advanced machinery, diverse crops, and the personal stories that highlight the resilience and dedication of South Dakota farmers.
Earlier this month, I toured Mike Jaspers’ farm in Bridgewater, SD with the Agriculture Ambassador program. Witnessing sustainable farming practices and a newborn calf's first steps deepened my commitment to supporting local farmers and advocating for sustainable agriculture policies.
On May 26th, I visited Tanner Hento's farm in Avon, South Dakota. Witnessing Tanner's dedication to sustainable agriculture and learning about his journey after a family tragedy was eye-opening. As America's Best Young Farmer 2024, Tanner's story highlighted the determination and hard work of South Dakota's farming community.
Recently, I spent time with farmer Dave Poppens in South Dakota, learning about the dedication and sustainable practices that define farming life. Dave’s commitment to soil health and multi-generational farming left a lasting impression, highlighting the deep-rooted connection to the land that sustains our communities. So much so that the Poppens family was named 2022 Farm Family of the Year by the Agribusiness Division of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce.
Jesse Carlson, a Hungry For Truth Ambassador from Seneca, SD, finds his love for farming reignited after visiting David Struck's farm in Wolsey.
Jeff, a farmer and agronomist, expertly manages crops like corn, soybeans, alfalfa, and wheat while delving into soil science for optimal yields.
We connected local chef, Michael Haskett, with Todd Hanten, a soybean, corn, and cattle farmer from Goodwin, to chat about farming, the impactful work farmers do, and more.
Maddie Peschong explores farming with Todd Hanten, highlighting sustainability, cattle care, and high oleic soybean oil in South Dakota.
Casting Call
A visit to Jordan Scott’s family farm gave McKenzie Mertens a renewed appreciation for the work that happens long before seeds are planted. From learning about the equipment that keeps the operation running to hearing stories of generations past, the experience offered a firsthand look at the dedication, resilience, and family legacy that continue to shape South Dakota agriculture. In this blog, McKenzie reflects on what she learned and why seeing farming through a different lens left a lasting impression.