Only workshops that have been fully contracted appear on this page. Please check back for updates as more amazing workshops are added to the list!

 

Innovative Approaches to Story Strategy
Emma Alexander
The voice of American agriculture rises from only 2% of our national population who reside on farms and ranches and every farm story is a valuable part of the whole narrative of agriculture. Through study and application of communication tactics and innovative approaches, our stories can become even more powerful and not become lost or hard to hear. We can share dynamic, persuasive stories that stick. The strategies shared in this session will guide you as you develop your own craft of storytelling to resonate with any audience you want to connect with.

 

Hosting Farm Tours: Educating Consumers and Legislators
AFBF P&E and WLC Committees
In this interactive session, attendees will learn how to design and host engaging farm tours that effectively educate both everyday consumers and key policymakers. Whether you're looking to connect with local communities or influence legislative support, this session will provide practical tips and strategies for tailoring your message to diverse audiences. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with the tools to host successful farm tours that inform, inspire and build stronger connections with both the public and decision-makers.

 

Creative Farm & Income Diversification
AFBF YF&R Committee
In this session, a panel of farmers will discuss various ways to diversify income to assist in growing your farm business. Discover creative diversification strategies that go beyond traditional farming, like incorporating agritourism, an Airbnb or on-farm food options like a kitchen or bar.

 

Cultivating Well-Being: ‘Addressing Mental Health in the Next Generation of Farmers’ 
Kyle Lechtenburg 
YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Farming is hard. Extreme weather, family trust issues, low prices, high debt, workplace accidents; I have experienced it all and have the scars to prove it. I will share real stories and examples of how pre-existing situations can hinder growth, as well as strategic steps to help with TRANSITION personally and professionally. You will learn a PLANNED method of overcoming mental health challenges as it relates to debt, staffing, and macroeconomics of the farming operation.

 

Whose Fence Line Is It Anyway? Improv in Advocacy
AFBF YF&R Committee
Have you ever tried telling a story at a party, but it just…fizzled? Maybe you stumbled over your words, or the audience just seemed….unimpressed. Well, fret no more! This workshop, is designed to turn you from a storytelling dud to a captivating conversationalist. And how are we going to achieve this magical transformation? Through the unexpected world of spontaneous comms – or improv - of course.

 

Farm Bureau Success Stories Panel
AFBF Women's Leadership Committee 
Are you wondering if you should get more involved with Farm Bureau? Are you already involved but don't know what the next step is for you? Join us for a panel discussion featuring members who have taken advantage of Farm Bureau programs. Learn about their experiences, leadership journey and tips for how to stay involved.

 

Purposeful Consumer Conversations: How to Host an “Ask a Farmer” Event
AFBF P&E Committee
In this session, participants will learn how to set up several options for hosting “Ask a Farmer” events. Through engagements at farmers markets, farm to table events and grocery stores, we can help reinforce the consumer’s commitment to agriculture and the community. At “Ask a Farmer” events, customers get to meet the people behind their favorite products, reinforcing the idea that agriculture supports the economy and that the people growing their food share values with those who are eating it.  

 

Campus Conversations: How to Navigate Tough Topics in College 
Samantha Beard 
During this session, participants will arm themselves with tools to better communicate and conversate about food, fiber and agriculture practices. Perspective: Through an icebreaker, students will share stories related to agricultural controversies in small groups. We will discuss the spectrum of public perception to better understand how to communicate. Echo Chamber: Today’s information flows from a myriad of sources; understanding these sources in the echo chamber is key. Students will learn ways to become the experts on campus and in their communities. Conversate: Advocating and educating about agriculture is a lifestyle. Students will be equipped with tools to agvocate daily.  

 

‘What Toys Can I Buy?’ Financial Planning Around Long Term Purchases Versus Family Living Needs 
Kyle Lechtenburg 
This session is designed in two parts: The first segment focuses on family and farm business. In business, we call this concept capital decisions versus operational decisions. I will define the difference, explain why it matters and go through parameters to help you make business decisions within your farm that address long-term strategy as well as meeting current operational needs. The second part focuses on family concepts with similar metrics but different stakeholders (i.e. family members).