Podcasts

Beyond the Gate

Join host Jamie Johansen for Beyond The Gate, a podcast sharing the grit, growth, and spirit of rural life. From fields to front porches, this is where the heart of agriculture comes alive as we celebrate the people, challenges, and triumphs that define rural life. Whether you’re in the tractor, at the kitchen table, or on the road, we’re bringing the heart of agriculture straight to you. The gate’s open… are you ready to step through?

Latest Episode

Jamie Johansen: Inside the Life of a State Fair Show Mom and Commissioner

What happens when the host of Beyond the Gate is forced to sit in the guest chair? 🎙️👀 In this special role-reversal episode recorded on location at the Missouri State Fair, Jamie Johansen hands over the microphone to her husband, Kevin Johansen! 🎡🐄 Kevin digs into Jamie’s lifelong connection to the Sedalia fairgrounds—starting with riding an FFA school bus to the fair at just two years old in 1987. They share what it’s really like raising their two daughters in the show barns, balancing show mom duties with serving on the Missouri State Fair Commission, and how agriculture communication turned into storytelling for local communities and community banking. Plus, Jamie reveals what she would tell her 18-year-old self and dishes on her secret dream job outside of agriculture! 🕵️‍♀️✨ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

September 23 • 26m 54.1s

Episodes

Jamie Johansen: Inside the Life of a State Fair Show Mom and Commissioner

September 23 • 26m 54.1s

Corn Dogs, Raccoons & Dubai Chocolate: Inside the Missouri State Fair with Steven Sims

What really happens behind the scenes when 450+ vendors, 70+ concessionaires, and thousands of hungry fairgoers descend on Sedalia? 🌭🎡 In this episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down with Missouri State Fair Concessions and Vendor Manager Steven Sims to pull back the curtain on the chaotic, high-stakes world of fair planning! 🎟️✨ Steve shares the reality of curating iconic fair foods (including a live taste test of Dubai chocolate-covered strawberries on "Snackin' with Steve"!), handling late-night emergencies like runaway raccoons and rogue pop-up stands, and why 65 vendors have returned every single year since 1995 🍓🤯. Plus, Steve gets personal about burning out, discovering his "Leadership on a Stick" philosophy, finding true purpose under pressure, and falling in love right on the fairgrounds! 💍❤️ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

September 9 • 36m 37.4s

Preserving 125+ Years: The Future of the Missouri State Fair

What does it take to transform 600 acres of historic fairgrounds for the next century of agriculture? 🎡🚜 In this episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down inside the brand-new Michael L. Parson Arena with engineer, lifelong cattleman, and Missouri State Fair Foundation Chairman Chad Sayre! 🎙️🐄 Chad pulls back the curtain on the multi-million dollar master plan reshaping the Sedalia fairgrounds—from replacing 22-year-old barn sand to expanding across 600 acres, relocating Clarendon Road, and building a massive 600-site campground! He also shares why community feedback from all 114 Missouri counties is shaping the future, and why the state fair remains the ultimate "front porch" of Missouri agriculture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

August 26 • 35m 23.5s

Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company: How a 17-Year-Old Started a Global Gardening Movement

How did a 12-page catalog printed by a 17-year-old launch a global movement to save rare seeds? In this episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down with Michelle and Andrew from Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company in Mansfield, Missouri. They take us inside one of the most biodiverse farms in the Midwest to explore how founder Jere Gettle built a seed empire, why Y2K supercharged the heirloom movement, and what it takes to trial 1,300+ rare plant varieties. Plus, get practical, stress-free advice on soil health, seed saving, and picking the right crops for your garden! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

August 12 • 47m 59.2s

Stacy Dohle: The Truth About Raw Milk, Antibiotics, and Dairy Myths

How do you bridge the gap between 42 million consumers and the 3,600 dairy farm families who feed them? 🐄🥛 In this episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down with Stacy Dohle, a dairy advocate who literally wears two hats: one in corporate communications for Midwest Dairy and one in the barn at Ol' Rock Barn Creamery. Stacy breaks down how the dairy industry has transformed over her 26-year career, the inner workings of the dairy checkoff, and why consumer trust relies on authentic storytelling. She also shares the terrifying yet rewarding leap her family took to diversify their farm by bottling their own cream line and A2 Jersey milk right near Pleasant Hope, Missouri. Plus, Stacy busts common consumer myths around raw milk, antibiotics, and homogenized milk, and gives a behind-the-scenes look at running the fan-favorite Gerken Dairy Center at the Missouri State Fair! 🎡 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 29 • 51m 0.2s

Ellie Samek: The High-Stakes Journey Behind the Blue Jacket

What does it actually take to lead 30,000 members across the state? In this episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down with newly elected Missouri State FFA President Ellie Samek. Ellie opens up about her roots on a Southwest Missouri dairy farm, but this isn't your average farm-kid story. 🐄 She pulls back the curtain on the grueling, multi-day state officer selection process and shares a wild, unexpected side project: partnering with a local zoo to build a national blueprint for raptor rehabilitation. From winning four consecutive state titles to a massive plot twist on the day she found out she won the presidency, Ellie shares what true leadership looks like for the next generation. 🚜 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 15 • 40m 23.5s

Ellie Samek: The High-Stakes Journey Behind the Blue Jacket

July 13 • 40m 7.2s

Eric Schnelle: The S&H Farm Supply Legacy

What happens when you combine $1,000, a kitchen table, and a farm garage with a massive vision? 🚜 In this episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down with Eric Schnelle of S&H Farm Supply to chart the incredible growth of a family business that started in 1969 and expanded into seven physical locations across rural Missouri. Eric shares behind-the-scenes family history—including how a member of the Ozark Mountain Daredevils penned their legendary "S&H Country" jingle over a plate of cheeseburgers—alongside the modern realities of managing a multi-location equipment dealership in 2026. From navigating global manufacturer boards and smart tractor telematics to recruiting high school FFA students straight into hands-on trade careers, Eric breaks down why trusting your gut and valuing local relationships beats a textbook business plan every single time. 👨‍🌾🌾 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 1 • 1h 4m 4.9s

Dr. Jeff Brown: Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health in Rural America

What happens when the heavy loads we carry move past everyday stress into a silent crisis? In this essential episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down with Laclede County native and nationally recognized psychologist Dr. Jeff Brown to discuss mental health in rural America. With the agricultural community facing a suicide rate four times the national average, Dr. Brown breaks down the dangerous mix of physical isolation, overestimating worst-case scenarios, and the stigma that views asking for help as a weakness. He offers practical strategies on how to spot when a loved one is just "feeling off," how to leverage anonymous resources like 988, and why teletherapy is a game-changer for modern farmers. From raising resilient kids to managing the stress of farm succession, this candid conversation provides a roadmap for protecting your most valuable asset—your mind. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 17 • 1h 30.7s

Travis Elliott: Practical Legal Advice for Rural Landowners

What actually happens when a neighbor's livestock crosses your line, or a handshake agreement from decades ago turns into a modern property dispute? In this episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down with Dallas County native, cattleman, and shareholder attorney Travis Elliott to unpack the complex (and often deeply emotional) world of agricultural and rural property law. Travis brings a highly practical approach to the legal world, breaking down the crucial differences in Missouri’s bifurcated fence laws, how to properly protect your operation from livestock liability, and what you need to know about boundary lines, easements, and eminent domain. Whether you manage a massive cattle operation, own a quiet few acres in the sticks, or just want to learn how to avoid a costly neighbor war, this conversation is essential listening. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 3 • 1h 2m 0.1s

Kevin Johansen: Bridging the Gap Between Technology and the Farm

What happens when you mix a century-farm upbringing with the fast-paced world of tech startups? In this episode of Beyond the Gate, we sit down with "idea man," entrepreneur, and cattleman Kevin Johansen—who also happens to be Jamie's husband. Kevin shares the journey of founding Ag Butler, an app that brought the gig economy to agriculture by connecting farmers with skilled labor. He pulls back the curtain on pitching an Ag Tech concept on a national stage and how he now consults to bridge the gap between innovators and producers. Beyond the tech, we dive into his passion for elite Hereford and Charolais genetics and the daily grit required to balance a modern startup with life on a century farm. Thanks to our sponsor, Co-Angler! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 20 • 54m 51.5s

Cloud's Meats: Three Generations of Quality Processing

What does it take to keep a multi-generational family business thriving for over 75 years? In this episode of Beyond the Gate, we go behind the scenes at Cloud’s Meats in Carthage, Missouri, with third-generation processor Chris Cloud. Chris shares his unique journey from high school agriculture teacher to leading the family plant, offering an inside look at how they balance 1950s-era family values with the modern demands of meat processing. We break down the "freezer beef" process, discuss the real value of buying locally, and get Chris's expert take on everything from choosing the perfect steak to the secrets of a great backyard barbecue. Whether you are a seasoned producer or a first-time freezer-beef buyer, this conversation is packed with the grit, history, and heart of the rural meat industry. Thanks to our sponsor, Co-Angler! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 6 • 48m 7.4s

Sheriff Jim Arnott: Crime Trends, Cattle Theft, and Rural Safety

Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott joins Beyond the Gate to discuss his nearly four-decade career in law enforcement, from his early days as a reserve deputy to his upcoming transition into the role of United States Marshal. Sheriff Arnott breaks down current crime trends in rural Missouri, including how modern technology like GPS tracking and neighborhood watch networks are essential tools for safeguarding farms and equipment. Beyond the badge, he shares the personal story behind his three-legged rescue dog, Katie, and explains why he believes the greatest protection for any rural community is a neighbor who looks out for their neighbor. Thanks to our sponsor, Co-Angler! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April 22 • 39m 6.5s

Beyond the Lesson Plan: Jay Shepherd’s 27 Years of Mentorship and Missouri Grit

Jay Shepherd is much more than an educator; he is a man with many hats. In this episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down with the Lawrence County native to reflect on a 27-year career dedicated to the "three-circle model" of ag education combining classroom learning, FFA leadership, and hands-on projects. From teaching the FFA Creed in a neighbor’s kitchen to seeing a student become a Star American Farmer, Jay shares the stories that define his "calling" to the classroom. We dive into the grit required to build an animal science lab from scratch and why modern ag ed is still the key to feeding the world in 2026. It is a raw look at the power of setting high expectations and watching students discover their own potential. Thanks to our sponsor, Co-Angler! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April 8 • 1h 6m 16.6s

Life After the Mansion: Part 2 with Mike Parson

We are back with the second half of our conversation with Missouri’s 57th Governor, Mike Parson. In this episode, we move past the titles to hear the personal stories that defined his time in office, from the quintuple bypass surgery just days before his swearing-in to the "sobering" drive to Jefferson City after the call that changed everything. Now back home in Bolivar, he reflects on the grit required for leadership, his lifelong love for the Missouri State Fair, and the faith that guided him through the state’s toughest moments. It is an honest look at life after the daily grind and the lasting values that make Missouri home. Thanks to our sponsor, Co-Angler! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

March 25 • 53m 3.8s

Milk, Eggs, & 5 Generations of Grit: The Justin Raef Story

Justin Raef is a fifth-generation dairyman and poultry producer from Lebanon, Missouri, whose family has been working the same land since 1916. He brings a collection of stories that define the grit of rural life, including the time he was only eight years old and sneaking out of the house at 4:00 AM to beat his grandpa to the milk barn. It's a raw and honest look at the kind of persistence it takes to keep a Century Farm thriving in 2026. Justin and Jamie explore the high-stakes reality of modern agriculture, highlighting a wild 24-hour window where Justin transitioned from a lifetime in the dairy business to a million-dollar poultry operation. With 20,000 hens now producing thousands of eggs a day alongside his dairy cows, Justin breaks down the daily grind of family teamwork and the market rollercoasters that define his "milk and eggs" lifestyle. Thanks to our sponsor, Co-Angler! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

March 11 • 1h 57.5s

BulkLoads: Connecting Small Truckers to Big Opportunity

Agriculture doesn’t move without trucks... and most of us never think about that. In this episode, Jamie Johansen talks with Jared Flinn, co-founder of BulkLoads, about the side of agriculture that keeps everything running behind the scenes. Jared shares how working in grain logistics opened his eyes to a bigger opportunity: helping small, independent trucking companies stay profitable and competitive in a tough industry. They dive into the real challenges owner-operators face, why cash flow can make or break a trucking business, and how BulkLoads grew into more than just a load board. It’s now a trusted marketplace, a funding partner, and a growing media platform telling the stories of rural America. Thanks to our sponsor, Co-Angler! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

February 25 • 56m 33.9s

Mike Parson: A Governor, a Farm Kid, and the Road Between

You’ve heard his name, but now it's time for his story. Jamie Johansen sits down with former Missouri Governor Mike Parson for his first in-depth interview like this since leaving office. In a wide-ranging, personal conversation, Governor Parson opens up about where he came from, growing up on a small farm in Hickory County, and the experiences that shaped him long before politics ever entered the picture. He reflects on his path through law enforcement, the military, business ownership, and public service, sharing stories and lessons that rarely get told once the spotlight fades. The conversation goes beyond titles and elections and gets into leadership, humility, family, and what really matters after the job ends. If you’re interested in hearing a side of a former governor you haven’t heard before, this is a must-listen. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

February 11 • 52m 39.3s

Keeping the Farm in the Family

Farm succession planning isn’t just about land and paperwork. It’s about family. Jamie Johansen sits down with Wesley Tucker of University of Missouri Extension for a real, eye-opening conversation about what happens to a farm when the next generation isn’t prepared. Wesley breaks down why succession planning matters, why waiting too long causes the biggest family conflicts, and how communication can make or break a farm’s future. They talk about on-farm and off-farm kids, fairness versus equality, sweat equity, and why the hardest conversations are the most important ones to have while everyone is still at the table. This conversation is packed with practical advice, real-life scenarios, and moments that will make you stop and think about your own family plans. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

January 28 • 44m 31.3s

Co-Angler: Fishing Smarter, Together

A quiet day fishing alone sparked something bigger. 🎣 Jamie Johansen talks with Ozarks native John Bledsoe, founder of Co-Angler, about how a simple idea turned into an app connecting people through fishing and the outdoors. John shares his path from growing up on Missouri waters to building a startup, taking risks, learning to code, and chasing a vision rooted in community. They break down what Co-Angler does, why it matters, and how technology can help people get back outside and connect in real life. It’s a great listen for anyone who loves Ozarks stories, entrepreneurship, or the power of a good idea. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

January 14 • 44m 40.2s

Yes Honey: A Clean Soda Built in the Ozarks

Jamie Johansen sits down with Heather Mincer, the founder of Yes Honey, and her story is one of those that starts simple and turns into something way bigger. Heather talks about moving her family to rural Missouri, wanting a slower pace of life, and how raising chickens and selling at farmers markets accidentally turned into a full-blown honey-sweetened soda and sauce business. Heather gets real about her health journey with alpha-gal, reading every label, and realizing just how hard it is to find drinks and treats made with clean ingredients. That challenge pushed her to create something better, and now Yes Honey is showing up in local stores and beyond. They talk branding mistakes, rebranding, pitching to grocery stores, and what it’s actually like building a product business while being a mom and figuring things out as you go. Learn more about Yes Honey at https://yeshoneybrand.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

December 31 • 48m 32.9s

Randy Little: How a Dairy Farm Kid Built a Western Empire

Jamie Johansen sits down with Randy Little for an honest, entertaining look at how a dairy farm kid built one of the most recognizable Western stores in America. Randy talks about his early days milking cows in Clever, Missouri, the unexpected break that launched him into business, and the moment he decided to take a gamble on a small feed store that eventually became PFI. He shares how bold ideas, smart branding, and a lot of hustle led to the BootDaddy brand, the catalog boom, wild promotions, national TV moments, and the growing crowds that turned PFI into a destination. Jamie also dives into Randy’s passion for agriculture, youth leadership, and the work he’s doing today to strengthen Missouri agriculture and support the next generation. It’s a fast-moving, inspiring conversation with a man who built an empire by trusting his gut, asking big questions, and never losing sight of his roots. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

December 17 • 1h 4m 31.4s

Ozark Fisheries

Jamie Johansen sits down with Margaret Cleveland of Ozark Fisheries for a deep dive into one of the most surprising corners of rural agriculture: ornamental fish farming. Margaret is a fourth-generation fish farmer who grew up on her family’s spring-fed operation, and she shares how a single idea in 1926 grew into a nationally recognized fish farm that raises goldfish and koi for customers across North America. 🐠 She talks about the early days of the farm, the science behind raising healthy fish, and the hands-on work that goes into spawning, feeding, protecting, and shipping thousands of fish. Jamie and Margaret also explore the predators that keep everyone on their toes, the big shift toward direct-to-consumer sales, how shipping live animals actually works, and the surprising impact aquaculture has on Missouri agriculture. There are fun stories too, including tours for thousands of FFA students, wild questions from kids, Margaret’s time living abroad, and what the next hundred years could look like. It is a fascinating look at a hidden rural industry and the grit it takes to keep a family farm running for a century. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

December 3 • 49m 25.7s

Missouri Wine & Grape Board

For the FIRST EPISODE of Beyond the Gate, Jamie Johansen sits down with Annette Alden, the Marketing Director for the Missouri Wine and Grape Board, for a fun dive into the stories, surprises, and history behind Missouri wine. Annette grew up on a farm, built a career in agriculture and marketing, and eventually found her passion in the wine world. She opens up about how Missouri’s wine roots stretch back to the 1800s, how the industry rebounded after Prohibition, and why people across the country look to Missouri as a model for supporting wineries. They talk about everything wine lovers are curious about: how modern technology changed the way grapes are grown, what wine labels actually tell you, how to store and serve wine the right way, and why screw caps are not the enemy. Annette also shares fun pairing ideas, tips for exploring local wineries, and insight into big celebrations coming up in 2026 that will shine a spotlight on Missouri. If you love a good story, enjoy learning something new, or just want an excuse to plan your next winery visit, this episode is a great place to start. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

November 19 • 50m 29.5s