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2024 has proven to be an exceptionally challenging year for family farm operations across the country. Margins have shrunk to the point where profits are minimal or even non-existent for many. If you want a different outcome in 2025, it's clear that something needs to change—not just in the market, but in how you run your business. In this blog, we'll dive into the most common mistakes that keep farmers from growing and evolving. These could be the key to turning things around for your operation.

Over the past decade, I’ve worked with hundreds of family farm operations. And one thing has become increasingly clear: you can’t survive off farming alone. The harsh reality is that relying solely on your farm’s revenue, especially during down years, is a risky and unsustainable approach. The most successful farming operations have figured out a way to mitigate this risk by diversifying their income streams.

For most people, the holiday season is a time for joy, relaxation, and celebration with loved ones. But for farmers, it often brings a heavy burden of stress. The end of the year means it’s time to settle accounts, face tax obligations, and prepare for the upcoming year’s bills. This unique combination of financial pressures can make the holiday season feel more overwhelming than festive. Let’s dive into why this happens and, most importantly, how you can combat this stress and reclaim your peace of mind during the holidays.

The future of your farm operation is in your hands. 2025 is just around the corner, and this could be the year your farm takes off. But the harsh reality? Between 2017 and 2022, over 150,000 family farms closed their gates for good. The main reason? They didn’t have a clear understanding of their numbers.

As Donald Trump begins his tenure as the 47th President of the United States, many farmers, ranchers, and agricultural business owners—often Republicans—are hopeful for positive changes. But can a single presidency truly rescue struggling operations? The reality is far more complex. If you’re banking on Trump—or any politician—to solve your long-term challenges, you may be setting yourself up for disappointment. Here's why the survival and success of your operation depend more on your own strategic thinking than on who's in office.

Mike Vandborg didn’t know what he was getting into when he started building his operation. As a husband, father, and farmer, he’s spent the last eight years doing everything he can to keep his head above water not just for his business, but for his family’s future.

In agriculture, there’s a common belief: farming more acres equals more profit. It sounds logical—more land should bring in more revenue, right? But in reality, this mindset can often backfire. Many farmers fall into the trap of thinking that expanding acreage is the key to increasing their bank accounts, yet, for those who aren’t carefully tracking their financials, more land can actually lead to more risk.

Every farmer I talk to worries about their income. Some are struggling to make enough money, while others fear that a good year could end at any moment. I get it—I've been there too.