In this episode of the Cultivate & Connect Podcast, Peoria County Farm Bureau Manager Charlie Hensley sits down with Illinois State Representative and PCFB Adopted Legislator Debbie Meyers-Martin. Together, they discuss the importance of building strong connections between Illinois agriculture and state leadership, sharing perspectives on how communication, collaboration, and firsthand understanding can help ensure farmers’ voices are heard in Springfield.

Strong farm businesses are built on more than production—they depend on clear, reliable financial records. In this episode, host Charlie Hensley sits down with Kevin Brooks of U of I Extension to discuss the fundamentals of farm business management and why accurate, consistent bookkeeping matters. They explore how good recordkeeping supports informed decisions, improves financial conversations, and helps producers better understand the performance and direction of their operations.

Contact Kevin anytime with questions by email at kwbrooks@illinois.edu.

In this episode, host Charlie Hensley sits down with Korbin Wagenbach for a conversation about leadership, service, and the important role Farm Bureau plays in strengthening rural communities and shaping the future of agriculture.

Korbin shares how he first became involved with Farm Bureau, what inspired him to take on leadership opportunities, and why serving alongside others matters for the next generation of farmers, advocates, and community members. Charlie and Korbin also discuss practical ways members and local residents can get engaged, build leadership skills, and contribute to a stronger, more successful future for agriculture.

Whether you are already involved in Farm Bureau or looking for a place to begin, this episode offers encouragement to step forward, serve your community, and help agriculture thrive for years to come.

In this episode of the Peoria County Farm Bureau Cultivate and Connect podcast, host Peoria County Farm Bureau Manager Charlie Hensley sits down with Peoria County Planning and Zoning Director Andrew Braun for an inside look at the role of the Planning and Zoning office. Andrew explains how the department serves unincorporated areas of Peoria County, helps manage land use, supports responsible growth, and works to preserve agricultural land and the rural character of the county. The conversation also explores how zoning decisions, permitting, ordinances, and land-use planning intersect with the needs of farmers, landowners, and rural communities.

In this episode of the Cultivate and Connect Podcast, host Charlie Hensley sits down with Kristi Smith, the Peoria County 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator with Illinois Extension, to explore how 4-H helps young people grow as leaders, communicators, and future agricultural advocates. Drawing on Kristi Smith’s lifelong 4-H experience—from member to volunteer to coordinator—the conversation highlights how hands-on learning, livestock projects, judging teams, and opportunities to try new things can build confidence, life skills, and lasting connections for youth both on and off the farm. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about the role 4-H plays in strengthening agricultural education, community engagement, and the next generation of leaders.

In this episode, host Charlie Hensley welcomes Ryan Mast, General Manager of Ag-Land FS, INC., for an engaging conversation about agronomy and the strategies for the upcoming planting season. Together, they dive into the latest trends, practical advice, and innovations that drive modern agriculture, offering valuable perspectives for growers and industry professionals alike. Tune in to discover how preparation and expertise can make the difference during planting and ensure a successful harvest.

In this episode, host Charlie Hensley sits down with newly elected Peoria County Farm Bureau President Cheryl Walsh to discuss her vision for both the organization and agricultural policy in the county. Cheryl shares her goals for the Farm Bureau, thoughts on the challenges and opportunities facing local agriculture, and how she plans to work with community members and policymakers to ensure a vibrant future for Peoria County farmers. Tune in for insights on leadership, policy trends, and what lies ahead for ag in Peoria County.

In this episode, host Charlie Hensley sits down with Peoria County Farm Bureau Board Director Rob Asbell for an engaging conversation about the realities of farming, the state of the farm economy, and the importance of volunteerism. Tune in to hear Rob’s insights and personal experiences, along with his thoughts on issues facing today’s agricultural community and much more.