Todd Western on Being a Black Farmer in Iowa

Todd Western III talks about the legacy of being from one of the first black farming families in Iowa, building community between black farmers, and the inaugural Iowa Farmers of Color Conference.

Tom Cotter Remembers His Dad

Tom Cotter is a fourth generation farmer from Austin, MN. He shares about the death of his dad, and appreciating the gift of storytelling in the field.

Rose Friedrich and Bruce Friedrich.

Bruce Friedrich (84) talks with his granddaughter Rose Friedrich (14) about his experiences from growing up on a farm to getting a phd in chemistry.

Jim Sayers and Donna Prizgintas

Jim Sayers (77) and Donna Prizgintas talk about his memories of growing on a farm in Humboldt, Iowa, the transition of the farm through generations and his hope for the future of the land and his family.

“Tell me about a time when you were super proud of something you created.”

Janine and I talked extensively about creativity and how she incorporates it into her life, in for example her paintings. We also discussed the progression of her creativity throughout her lifespan and how she has witnessed it evolve right in...

Pete Kerns Looks for Lost Pigs

Pete Kerns remembers when his pigs escape into the woods of Iowa, and the week of searching with community members that ensued.

“I just figured I could go through life unnoticed…nobody saw me.”

In this interview with my Grandpa, we talk about his life as a poor kid and key events along the way that shaped his work ethic and ultimately - his entire life. I learned so much from this conversation and...

Matthew Setlak & Rachel McKeel-Abrahamsen On Elvis's Career, Impact, And Growing Up.

I (22 M) did an interview with my Grandmother Rachel McKeel-Abrahamsen (82). This interview focuses on everyday life as well as the impact of Elvis Presley's career on her life and the people around her.

Mark Lukasiewicz

Chris Cox (37) talks with Mark Lukasiewicz (29) about his life experiences and the wisdom he would like to pass on to future generations.

Ryan and Jamie Madison

Ryan and Jamie Madison talk about moving back to Iowa to start their farm. They're first generation farmers working to be financially sustainable from farming, and living a life of satisfaction.

Jeff Severson Talks About The Arrival of AIDS in New York City and his 40 years as an HIV survivor.

Jeff Severson (68) shares how his early years as an actor in NYC coincided with the arrival of the AIDS epidemic. He recounts the loss of two life partners from AIDS and his own HIV positive status. Jeff also talks...

Patricia Pinto and Theresa Warren

Patricia Pinto (56) speaks with Practical Farmers of Iowa volunteer Theresa Warren (28). Patricia shares the dream of farming that she's had since childhood, her journey to be a beginning farmer, and her gratitude for the community of knowledge sharing...

Lizzie Cusick, a Cat, and a Goose

Lizzie Cusick shares early memories of her grandfather's farm, and a surprise trade of a loving cat for a angry goose.

Religion and Immigration: Following a Calling to Integrate Cultures

Here, I talk to my mom and dad about their experiences with their experience as Taiwanese immigrants, and how faith has woven itself into this experience. We touch on the similarities of Christian and Chinese values, as well as how...