Rural Realities

By: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection
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  • Summary

  • Given the ongoing challenges facing the agriculture industry – low prices, uncertain markets, trade uncertainty, and inclement weather - it’s no surprise that farmers and farm families are experiencing more stress. “Rural Realities” focuses on helping farmers tap into their resilient nature by presenting advice from experts that can help reduce stress, improve a farm’s financial situation, implement good farm family communication skills, and more. ***The department is providing this podcast as a public service, but it is neither a legal interpretation nor a statement of department policy. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the department. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by department employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the view of the department or any of its officials. If you have any questions about this disclaimer, please contact our Department’s General Counsel.
    © 2025 Rural Realities
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Episodes
  • The Power of Hydration and Nutrition

    The Power of Hydration and Nutrition
    May 9 2025

    In this episode of Rural Realities, Part 2 of our special series for Mental Health Month, host Karen Endres from the Wisconsin Farm Center dives into two powerful wellness basics: hydration and nutrition. Karen shares easy, practical tips to help farmers fuel their bodies for long days in the field — because taking care of yourself is key to staying strong for your farm, family, and community. Tune in and learn how small daily habits can make a big difference!

    Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than one hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at 800-942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.

    If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at 888-901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.
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    10 mins
  • Self-Care for Farmers: Keep It Simple

    Self-Care for Farmers: Keep It Simple
    May 2 2025

    Join host Karen Endres from the Wisconsin Farm Center for a special Rural Realities series in honor of May as Mental Health Month. In this episode, Karen shares practical ways farmers and agricultural workers can prioritize self-care, using relatable tips like the "gas tank" and "warning light" analogies to keep both body and mind in good condition. Tune in for quick, powerful wellness insights to support your farm, family, and community.

    Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than one hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at 800-942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.

    If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at 888-901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.
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    13 mins
  • The Wisconsin Farm Center, Here to Help Farmers

    The Wisconsin Farm Center, Here to Help Farmers
    Mar 13 2025

    The Wisconsin Farm Center focuses on helping farmers establish, sustain, grow, or effectively transition their agriculture businesses. Join Dan Bauer, Farm Center Supervisor, as he talks with Rural Realities host Karen Endres about the wide variety of free and confidential programs the center offers. Along the way you will learn a little bit of history of the Farm Center and how to easily access the services their experienced team provides.

    Experiencing a challenge on the farm? Contact the Wisconsin Farm Center! With more than a hundred years of collective agriculture experience, the Wisconsin Farm Center team offers free and confidential financial and transition planning services, conflict mediation, veterinary diagnostic analysis, and more. They can be reached at 800-942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. More information on programs and services is available at https://farmcenter.wi.gov.

    If you are experiencing increased stress, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or just need a welcoming ear to talk to, please contact the free and confidential 24/7 Wisconsin Farmer Wellness Helpline at 888-901-2558 for immediate support. In-person and tele-counseling sessions are also available by request.
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    44 mins

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