On this episode of Your Ag Empire, we’re joined by Lettie Nickel—a fourth-generation Kansas rancher who's turning tradition on its head. From managing feedyards to transforming an old grain bin into a hit Airbnb, Lettie is proof that the future of agriculture belongs to those willing to think outside the box.

After years of veterinary school and only four years in the field, Kari Jo Kelso walked away from her full-time vet career to chase something unexpected—t-shirts. Now the founder of Kelso & Co., Kari Jo has built a thriving apparel business and renovated a historic downtown space to support other rural entrepreneurs. In this episode of Your Ag Empire, we talk about grief, creativity, small-town pride, and what happens when you decide not to wait for retirement to live your life.

In Part 2, we go deeper with Brandon Vining on regenerative ag, long-term fertility, and why precision matters more than ever. Brandon shares how he helps clients—from seasoned producers to next-gen farmers—navigate complex agronomy decisions without sales pressure. From nutrient density to custom plans, it’s a practical look at what modern agronomy should be: transparent, unbiased, and rooted in what works for your land—not someone else’s margin. If you’ve ever felt burned by the system or unsure who to trust, this one’s for you.

In Part 1 of this conversation, independent agronomist Brandon Vining of ProGrow Consulting shares what’s broken in the ag retail model—and what he’s doing differently. After two decades in the industry, Brandon stepped away from commission-based agronomy to focus on field-first, farmer-focused consulting. He breaks down why the “free advice” that comes with a product often costs more in the long run, how soil fertility decisions impact mental health and profitability, and what producers can do to make more confident, cost-effective decisions on every acre.

In this empowering episode of Your Ag Empire, Holly interviews rural entrepreneur and podcast host Emily Reuschel about the transformative power of leading with curiosity, building authentic community, and embracing courageous change. Emily shares how she went from burned-out teacher to rural retreat host, helping women in agriculture break free from limiting beliefs and redefine success.

Listeners will gain insight into mental health in agriculture, personal growth in rural communities, and how to chase big dreams while staying present at home. If you're navigating motherhood, marriage, or major life transitions in small-town America, this episode is for you.

Join us for an inspiring podcast episode featuring Colby and Phallyn King, the visionary duo behind 4 Kings Ranch and 1684 Venue | Resort. Based in Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, their partnership blends heritage, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. Through their ventures, including premier Braunvieh cattle breeding and the creation of unforgettable experiences at 1684 Venue | Resort, Colby and Phallyn epitomize entrepreneurial spirit and legacy-building. Tune in as they share insights into their journey, the future of the beef industry, and the essence of community-driven agriculture. Don't miss this captivating conversation with two trailblazers shaping the landscape of agriculture and hospitality.

Will Clay is a seasoned Senior IoT Solutions Architect with a decade of experience in the field. Hailing from Perkins, Okla., Will has made significant strides in designing IoT hardware and equipment, specifically tailored for the utility industry.

Sadie Lackey is a University of Georgia graduate, political junky, agriculture advocate, and stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma survivor.