Politics was Plan A for UK farmer James Mills. After leaving the farm, he built a career in Parliament, at the National Farmers’ Union, and in Brussels. However, after hearing rumblings that Brexit was upon them, James made the decision to head back to the farm. That first walk up the drive after returning is etched in James’s memory; he knew he was coming home. When a proposed 20% inheritance/estate tax threatened to tear through family farms, James found himself in those same halls again, this time organizing, not advising, helping bring ~40,000 farmers to Westminster in a peaceful show of resolve. Reflecting on why the fight matters: not to force the next generation into farming, but to ensure they have the option to choose it. As Global Farmer Network marks 25 years of lifting ag as a career of choice, James’s journey ties purpose to place and policy to people. Listen for the drive, the protest, and the promise of legacy.

This July, we’re celebrating 25 years of collaboration and knowledge, spotlighting the leaders who say “yes” to big ideas and bold partnerships. Few embody that spirit more than Bill Couser, a Central Iowa cattleman, corn farmer, ethanol pioneer, and lifelong advocate for agriculture.

In this episode, Bill reflects on a six-decade journey that began with a 4-H calf and grew into a legacy of leadership. From building a nationally recognized feedlot to co-founding an ethanol plant that revitalized his community, Bill has always believed in lifting up others. His story is one of grit, mentorship, and trust; especially as he transitions from leading at the front to guiding the next generation.

Tune in to hear why Bill is the 2025 Kleckner Global Farm Leader Award recipient, and how his life’s work continues to connect farmers around the world through shared values, collaboration, and care for the future.

This month, we’re celebrating 25 years of connection and convening, core values that have shaped the Global Farmer Network from the very beginning. Few farmers reflect that spirit more clearly than Derek Matthews, a multigenerational producer from South Africa.From cooperative leadership to international collaboration, Derek has built his career on bringing farmers together across borders and generations. In this episode, he shares stories of resilience, climate challenges, crop diversification, and what it means to be part of a global farming community. Whether mentoring his son on the family farm or helping organize the upcoming GFN mobilization in South Africa, Derek reminds us that the future of farming is built through connection.Tune in to hear how one farmer’s belief in unity is helping shape agriculture, locally and globally.#gfnmobilizing #sustainablefarming #southafrica #farmersunite #farmers #agriculture