James Pieper is a first-generation farmer who’s only four years into his operation—but you’d never guess it based on the way he’s embraced both the challenges and the spotlight. Known on social media as @allaboutfarming, James takes his followers behind the scenes of day-to-day farm life, breaking down everything from planting to drainage upgrades in a relatable, easy-to-understand way.

In this episode, James shares how he went from city kid to Southern Minnesota farmer, inspired by hands-on trials and ag studies at North Dakota State University. We dive into the realities of 2024’s tough weather, what it took to upgrade tile on 108 acres, and the big decision to invest in new fertilizer storage and tillage equipment. Plus, James gives us a look into his personal life, celebrating the recent birth of his daughter Hazel Rose and what it’s like to farm alongside his wife—who now drives tractor!

We also talk about the importance of storytelling in agriculture, what it’s like working with brands like Pioneer, and how sharing the simple "why" behind each farming decision can build trust with consumers and future farmers.

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Website: www.Farm4Profit.com

Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com

Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com

Call/Text: 515.207.9640

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Prioritize Your Goals Worksheet &

Des Moines workshop registration links:

uncommonfarms.com/succession

Common Traits Webinar:

Common Traits Webinar Recording

Mike’s Linkedin profile:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedowney-farmraised?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BOARBPKDWRRehBWqC62Y0Gg%3D%3D

Michael C. “Mike” Downey

Farm Business Coach & Succession Planning Lead

(O): 618.372.7431 (M): 319.361.2409

Mike Downey of UnCommon Farms to talk all things succession planning. Mike shares how his own farm background inspired him to help other families navigate the often difficult but crucial process of transitioning the farm to the next generation. We explore the emotional and financial side of succession—covering everything from estate planning and business governance to family harmony and leadership development.

Mike also previews the 2025 Succession Workshop Series, including an in-person, full-day event in Des Moines on July 23rd, co-hosted with Paul Neiffer, The Farm CPA. He shares why it’s essential for farmers to have a plan, what common mistakes families make, and the simple tools that can jumpstart progress—like the “Prioritize Your Goals” worksheet.

We close with a discussion on legacy, communication, and the future of the family farm. If you've ever said, “We need to figure out succession—but don’t know where to start,” this episode is for you.

🧩 Bonus: Mike shares how a past guest inspired a listener to take action and bring in UnCommon Farms to help their own family. Succession is personal—and this episode proves it.

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Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!

Website: www.Farm4Profit.com

Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com

Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com

Call/Text: 515.207.9640

Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw

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Andrew, founder of Tulip Valley Farms—a vibrant, immersive flower farm in the heart of Washington’s Skagit Valley. But Andrew’s path to farming is anything but traditional. From his early career as a U.S. Air Force intelligence officer to high-level roles at tech giants Amazon and Expedia, he’s built a career defined by bold pivots, community commitment, and strategic vision.

Raised in Mount Vernon, Andrew returned home after years in the corporate world to invest in his roots—literally. With a law degree, MBA, and master’s in organizational leadership, he leveraged his diverse background to launch Tulip Valley Farms, a business now recognized nationally for its experiential approach to floriculture and farm tourism.

He opens up about being colorblind and how he and his wife Holly—Tulip Valley’s self-appointed Chief Color Officer—have made it work. We also dive into the challenges of entrepreneurship, including his removal as CEO from a previous tulip venture and how that setback ignited the vision for something even greater.

Andrew shares how Tulip Valley Farms blends agriculture, innovation, and storytelling to create authentic farm experiences—from U-pick tulip fields to hands-on events. With features in national media and honors from the World Tulip Summit, his farm is not just beautiful—it’s a blueprint for how agritourism can inspire, educate, and thrive.

Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!

https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/

Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!

Website: www.Farm4Profit.com

Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com

Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com

Call/Text: 515.207.9640

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