Bankruptcy, Profitability, and the Reality of 2026
A candid conversation with Jonathon Haralson reveals the grit and vision required to thrive in a volatile agricultural landscape.
In an era where the ground beneath agriculture feels perpetually in motion, "Your Ag Empire" podcast host Jonathon Haralson offers a raw, unscripted look at the challenges and triumphs facing today's farmers. Shunning polished scripts for authentic dialogue, Haralson’s recent episode delves into the economic currents shaping the industry, the human toll of financial stress, and the strategic foresight necessary to cultivate a lasting legacy. It's a testament to the fact that while the fields may seem unchanging, the business of farming demands constant adaptation and unwavering resolve.
Haralson, a voice known for his practical approach, understands the immense pressures bearing down on the agricultural community.
"I've had a lot of people asking questions about Empire Ag," he shared, attributing much of the inquiry to the prevailing economic climate, "the struggles and the stress that everyone is under." His candor immediately addresses the heart of the matter, moving beyond superficial discussions to the deep-seated anxieties of producers.
One poignant example underscores the human element at play: a producer currently navigating Chapter 12 bankruptcy. Haralson speaks of "working with the attorney to try to build out what his Chapter 12 looks like, what his future's gonna be." He highlights the emotional struggles and the "identity crisis that has encumbered his operation," a stark reminder that farming is far more than just planting and harvesting; it is deeply interwoven with personal identity and legacy.
Haralson passionately calls for empathy, asking listeners to reflect on moments of personal vulnerability in their own operations. "The next time you hear of a farmer down the road, a neighbor that's filed for Chapter 12 bankruptcy, I want you to take a little bit of time to have some empathy towards those individuals because you may not know everything. You may not know the whole story."
Yet, even in the face of such adversity, Empire Ag aims to forge pathways forward. Haralson speaks of helping this particular farmer not just through the immediate crisis, but toward a renewed future.
"His farming career is not over at all. This is gonna be just the beginning of getting things cleaned up, getting everybody taken care of, and moving forward."
This proactive approach extends to seeking new revenue streams, a critical component in building a resilient operation. He cites the example of a young farmer who, starting with a net worth of only $30,000, expanded into multiple revenue streams, including a cattle operation, leading to farm ownership. This focus on adding "cash flowing assets" without taking on additional debt is a cornerstone of their guidance.
The conversation swiftly shifts to broader economic concerns, painting a picture of volatility that demands constant vigilance. Haralson speculates on global economic shifts impacting agriculture, from falling interest rates and inflation to manipulated currencies.
"We're gonna see inflation like we've never seen before," he predicts, advising producers to recognize the inherent value in their land and commodities. "Agricultural commodities are a severely undervalued class," he asserts, urging a fresh perspective on asset valuation.
However, the path to prosperity is not without its pitfalls. Haralson recounts the tragic impact of market fluctuations, mentioning the WASDE report and farmer suicides.
"The weight that these farmers are carrying is tremendous," he states with gravity, delivering a heartfelt plea: "Reach out. Don't ever let that pressure get so much that you take your own life. It's not worth it. God put you here for a purpose, and you need to hear that, and you need to understand that, and you're worth more than dollars."
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the often-avoided topic of succession planning. Haralson laments the "lack of connection with the younger generation," observing older farmers reluctant to relinquish control. He speaks of "six generations or three generations of mess" in some family operations, tangled with debt and commingled equipment.
"I do not want family fighting over assets," he emphasizes, urging candid conversations now. "You can't wait."
Haralson offers a pragmatic, if stark, perspective on assets: "We were all born naked. We came into this world with nothing. We're gonna leave this world with nothing."
Haralson’s message is one of tough love tempered with unwavering support.
"If you don't have the grit to come up with ways to save yourself, there is no silver lining out there. It's not gonna happen."
He demands participation, not passive observation, from those seeking Empire Ag's assistance.
"If you come in here, I want you to be ready. I want you to be ready to tackle what's at hand. And we'll get you there, but you have got to be a participant. You can't sit back." He even challenges the "tough guy look" some farmers adopt, advocating for community and mutual respect.
In a world filled with "negativity spewing out with wisdom" from coffee shops, Haralson and Empire Ag remain committed to identifying opportunities. He highlights the cattle industry, despite its volatility, as a sector with continued promise. And he warns against complacency regarding land values, citing the precipitous drop in California following private equity investments and oversupply. "Land never, ever goes down. Well, I call bullshit."
As 2026 unfolds, Haralson underlines the critical importance of working capital, a resource he sees "eroding away" in many operations. This, he notes, is the limiting factor for future advancement. The episode concludes with a resonant message: "If there's a will, there's a way, and I promise, there is. You guys will make it."
It’s a powerful call to action for farmers to engage, adapt, and build their own enduring agricultural empires, not through fleeting trends, but through strategic decisions, proactive planning, and sheer determination.
