The Heart of Rural America

In this powerful episode of The Heart of Rural America, Amanda Radke sits down with South Dakota landowner Senator Mark Lapka to discuss the growing controversy around carbon pipelines, federal eminent domain, and the far-reaching implications of HR 4135. The conversation unpacks how 45Q tax credits may be placing a financial burden on taxpayers, why many in agriculture are skeptical of carbon sequestration efforts, and how grassroots movements in South Dakota are rising up to protect property rights. Mark shares firsthand insights on the importance of preserving local control and urges citizens to get involved, stay informed, and make their voices heard in the face of federal overreach. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rural land rights and the future of American agriculture.Key Takeaways:HR 4135 has sparked widespread concern over the expansion of federal eminent domain powers.South Dakotans are uniting to protect local control and property rights from outside influence.The 45Q carbon capture tax credits shift financial burdens onto taxpayers with little local benefit.Carbon pipelines and sequestration plans are being met with growing resistance in rural communities.Transparency and citizen engagement are crucial when it comes to federal legislation affecting landowners.This issue extends beyond South Dakota — it reflects national tensions over land use and government power.Grassroots advocacy is playing a pivotal role in defending rural voices and resisting federal oversight.The political landscape in South Dakota is evolving, with more leaders prioritizing landowner rights.Mark Lapka encourages citizens to contact their legislators and take an active role in policy conversations.The episode highlights the importance of staying informed and organized in the fight for rural America.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-books

Following the conclusion of South Dakota's 100th legislative session, I travel to the Siouxland Republican Women's Meeting in Sioux Falls, SD, joined by South Dakota Speaker of the House Jon Hansen, Speaker Pro Tem Karla Lems & Senator Mark Lapka to discuss the passage of HB1052 to eliminate eminent domain for carbon pipelines and how South Dakota is serving as a beacon of hope for the rest of the nation.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | By-O-Reg+ | Dirt Road RadioSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-books

Amanda sits down with her sister, Courtney Coughlin, to discuss faith, family, entrepreneurship, juggling it all, and how to find opportunities in agriculture in unique and exciting ways.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | By-O-Reg+ | Dirt Road RadioSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-books

In this episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke speaks with Erica Valdez, a rancher with experience on border issues, about the changing dynamics of border crossings and their impact on ranching communities. Valdez shares her experiences of the increasing dangers posed by drug traffickers and the misconceptions perpetuated by mainstream media. The conversation highlights the importance of education and advocacy for rural communities affected by border security issues.TakeawaysErica Valdez shares her experiences as a rancher near the Mexican border.The nature of border crossings has changed significantly over the years.Mainstream media often misrepresents the realities of border issues.Ranchers face unique challenges and dangers due to drug trafficking.Community safety is a major concern for ranchers living near the border.Education and advocacy are crucial for addressing border security issues.Ranchers are often armed and take precautions when working at night.The impact of border issues extends beyond the border communities.Valdez emphasizes the importance of understanding the realities of border life.Grassroots efforts are needed to influence policy on border security.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | By-O-Reg+ | Dirt Road RadioSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-books

Fanchon Stinger is the Emmy winning co-host of PBR Now and a contributor to Western Sports Roundup and NFR Tailgate airing on Cowboy Channel and PlutoTV. She is an actress who appeared on God’s Not Dead: A Light In Darkness in 2019. In 2020, Stinger became a bull owner in PBR (Professional Bull Riders), partnering with 12-time Stock Contractor of the Year Chad Berger and Daniel & Melissa Brunner in the ownership of the bucking bulls “Stinger” and “Lill Hott,” who compete on the PBR Tour. In 2021, she co-founded and launched the charitable initiative Grit & Grace Nation, inspiring middle and high school girls to lead with courage through exposure to successful female mentors and western values of faith, family, & freedom. Stinger shares her journey, provides mentorship programs and scholarship opportunities nationwide plus appears at PBR events as part of Grit & Grace Nation’s alliance with PBR to honor deserving girls.Grit + Grace: https://thegritandgracenation.org/Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | By-O-Reg+ | Dirt Road RadioEnjoy special discounts from my podcast partners:Earn $25 to shop in your first auction at www.BidOnBeef.com when you register your account.Save on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/And mention my name when you buy Real Tuff equipment for a special add-on bonus on your delivery. www.realtuff.com

In this episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, Amanda Radke welcomes back esteemed guest Jolene Brown, a nationally recognized speaker known for her expertise in supporting farm and ranch families. The discussion revolves around the unique challenges faced by agricultural families, particularly the balance of personal relationships and farm responsibilities. Jolene shares stories and advice on maintaining mental health, effective communication, financial planning, and the importance of support systems within rural communities. She emphasizes the need for humor, appreciating personal contributions, and having realistic strategies for family farms. The episode provides invaluable insights for ensuring both the success of farm operations and the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to them.00:00 Welcome to The Heart of Rural America00:13 Introducing Jolene Brown: A National Treasure01:14 Challenges Faced by Farm Families02:48 Balancing Marriage and Farm Life07:03 The Importance of Self-Care08:15 Building a Support Network14:31 Financial Advice for Farm Families15:49 Emergency Planning and Liquid Assets16:17 Spending Limits and Transparency17:04 Caution with Debt and Financial Responsibility17:32 Preparing for Unexpected Departures19:15 Communication and Family Meetings21:20 Balancing Short-term and Long-term Goals23:13 The Importance of Knowing Your 'Why'28:00 Tough Conversations and Transition Planning30:54 Final Thoughts and Parting AdviceFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

In this powerful episode recorded at the Black Hills Stock Show Property Rights Rally hosted by the South Dakota Stock Growers Association, Amanda Radke shares highlights from a day focused on one of the most urgent issues facing rural Americans: property rights.The episode features remarks from Charles and Heather Maude, who recount their family’s deeply personal and highly publicized property rights battle involving a fence line dispute, federal criminal charges, and a long road to resolution. They share what they learned, how their case was finally resolved, and why they are now committed to helping protect other families from similar government overreach.Amanda then takes the stage to give a major update on what’s happening in Pierre, South Dakota, including key legislation tied to eminent domain, invasive surveying, tax exemptions for data centers, and constitutional protections for landowners. She also explains why grassroots action has become a powerful force in South Dakota and why these fights matter far beyond state lines.This episode is a rallying cry for farmers, ranchers, and landowners to stay engaged, stay informed, and defend the freedoms that keep rural communities strong.Follow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

Rep. John Shubeck speaks about his new bill, HB1064, to "provide for the sale of producer-raised meat and meat food products directly to consumers pending legalization under federal law," which passed the House and Senate with a veto-proof majority.Cattle industry divided over lab-grown and direct-to-consumer meat legislation: https://southdakotasearchlight.com/2026/02/06/cattle-industry-divided-over-lab-grown-and-direct-to-consumer-meat-legislation/Read more about HB1064: https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/26577Learn more about the Prime Act here: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4700Follow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

South Dakota Representative Julie Auch talks about her bill to "consider a cultivated-protein food product to be adulterated food." This bill passed through the House and Senate before ultimately being vetoed by SD Gov. Larry Rhoden.A new bill on "fake meat" is still in play for the 2026 legislative session, SB 124, which Gov. Rhoden is calling a "compromise." Learn more about this topic that is happening in real time in this week's episode.Read the bill HB1077 here: https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/26999Read Governor Larry Rhoden's statement here: https://news.sd.gov/news?id=news_kb_article_view&sys_id=ad6169141b0fba14df4edb1de54bcb3dLearn about SB124 here: https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/27110Who is CJ Foods, what is the SF project? https://www.keloland.com/keloland-com-original/who-is-cj-foods-what-is-the-sf-project/CJ Cheil Jedang Reveals Strategy to Actively Push for Alternative Meat Production https://m.ajupress.com/view/20220329171527456

In this special episode of The Heart of Rural America, host Amanda Radke is joined by her husband, Tyler Radke, for a behind-the-scenes preview of their second annual President’s Day Bull Sale at Radke Land & Cattle, located just north of Mitchell, South Dakota.Whether you’re a rancher looking to invest in elite Angus and Limousin genetics, a fan of rural entrepreneurship, or just love a great story of resilience and family legacy—this episode delivers.Takeaways:What makes the 2026 bull sale offering truly unique: age-advantage Angus bulls, standout yearlings, and elite donor genetics.Details on exclusive embryo and flush opportunities from premier donor cows like Hart Whitney and GMC Isabel.The exciting live Bid on Beef auction, selling premium Angus beef direct to consumers nationwide.A special guest appearance by NFL legend Don Beebe, who will deliver a message of perseverance before the beef auction.Why this event is more than a cattle sale—it’s a celebration of rural America, community, and legacy ranching.Featured Genetic Offerings:Pineview Red States x Hart Whitney 25282 progenyMason Landmark, SS Identified, and Blue Duck siresLimousin options from camouflage and Federal Reserve linesEmbryos and flushes from top females including Baldridge Isabel and Linz Lady 3125Exclusive Bid on Beef lots – Prime, dry-aged All-American Angus beef delivered to your doorFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

In this powerful solo episode of The Heart of Rural America, host Amanda Radke shares 12 actionable strategies designed to help small business owners, rural entrepreneurs, and family farmers succeed in 2026. From understanding your business financials to building a brand rooted in authenticity and faith, Amanda lays out a roadmap for sustainable, values-based growth.If you're ready to scale your business, streamline your systems, and lead with clarity and purpose this year, don’t miss this value-packed episode—complete with a free downloadable PDF checklist to help you take immediate action.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How to know and use your business financials to make smarter decisionsThe importance of delegation and building a strong, aligned teamSimple systems that save time and increase productivityHow to define and market your rural business authenticallyEmail list strategies and pricing tips for small business ownersSuccession planning and legacy building for family farmsThe role of self-care and faith in business leadershipAmanda’s upcoming bull and female sale event announcementHow to download the free 12-Step Business ChecklistFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

Amanda Radke hosts a property rights rally at the Capitol Rotunda, South Dakota, highlighting the importance of property ownership and the ongoing fight to protect landowners from eminent domain for private gain. The event features speeches from several key figures, including Senator Mykala Voita, Attorney General Marty Jackley, and Senator Mark Lapka who announce a new constitutional amendment to prohibit eminent domain for private gain. The rally celebrates past victories while rallying support for continued efforts to safeguard property rights, emphasizing the unity and determination of South Dakota farmers and ranchers in defending their land and freedoms.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Rally Kickoff01:21 Opening Prayer and Pledge02:46 Attorney General Marty Jackley's Speech08:28 Representative Liz May's Statement15:20 Charles and Heather Maude's Story21:27 Senator Lauren Nelson's Address26:45 Speaker Pro Temp Carla Lems's Remarks29:53 Rallying for Victory: The Power of Unity30:19 Key Figures and Their Contributions31:24 The Fight for Property Rights32:39 The AI Bill of Rights34:30 Personal Stories of Struggle and Triumph40:49 The Legislative Battle47:27 A Call to Action: Protecting Our Future54:10 The Power of the People: Achievements and Future GoalsFollow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

In this powerful episode of The Heart of Rural America, host Amanda Radke welcomes back Senator Mark Lapka of South Dakota for a no-holds-barred conversation on property rights, grassroots activism, and groundbreaking legislation that could reshape the future for rural landowners.Fresh off a record-breaking rally at the South Dakota Capitol, Senator Lapka shares exclusive insights on two major legislative efforts:👉 HJR 5001 – A proposed constitutional amendment that would ban eminent domain for private gain in South Dakota, protecting landowners from seizure by private corporations.👉 SB 88 – The Bosley Bill – Named after farmer Jared Bosley, this bill addresses invasive land surveys and aligns South Dakota law with a unanimous Supreme Court ruling that protects private property from unauthorized corporate intrusion.Amanda and Senator Lapka reflect on the rising momentum of the property rights movement, the power of grassroots advocacy, and why farmers and ranchers across the state—and the country—are stepping up to defend their land.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why eminent domain reform is critical for rural communitiesHow the 2026 rally became a turning point for South Dakota politicsThe backstory behind the Bosley Bill and its legal foundationWhat HJR 5001 would change about the state constitutionHow you can get involved through AmericanLandandLegacy.orgLinks & Resources:💻 Learn more or get involved: AmericanLandandLegacy.org🎬 Watch “Little Pink House” to understand the dangers of eminent domain abuse🎧 Listen to past episodes with Senator Mark Lapka and other rural leadersStay Connected:Follow Amanda Radke on social media and subscribe to The Heart of Rural America for more episodes featuring the voices shaping agriculture, rural values, and constitutional freedoms.Presented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

In this first episode of the Heart of Rural America podcast for 2026, host Amanda Radke reconnects with her friend Calli Thorne, a ranch mom, entrepreneur, and fellow speaker. They discuss the challenges and rewards of operating a USDA federally-inspected beef plant named Yellowstone River Beef, their experiences in the cattle industry, and the importance of a positive mindset in overcoming business obstacles. Calli shares her strategies for balancing multiple responsibilities, including motherhood, business, and public speaking, by using a method of delegating or ditching tasks to focus on what truly matters. The episode delves into themes of entrepreneurship, leadership, and maintaining mental well-being while managing a busy, fulfilling life.00:00 Welcome to the Heart of Rural America00:34 Catching Up with Calli Thorne02:43 Challenges and Triumphs in the Beef Industry09:09 Balancing Business and Personal Life14:16 Mastering the Art of Saying No20:42 Empowering Women in Agriculture27:49 Final Thoughts and New Year MotivationShop Red Aspen: https://redaspenlove.com/pages/incentive?srsltid=AfmBOopNOkswz8PWWlG-dJfmkmIG30focRh90PpRD91xzZowMyvRnzNJ&pws=amandaradkePresented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business

In this episode of The Heart of Rural America podcast, host Amanda Radke welcomes her middle sister, Courtney Coughlin, a businesswoman, entrepreneur, and homeschooling mother of four. They discuss Courtney's various ventures, including her boutique CCXO and her cut flower business, Three Sisters Blooms. The sisters reflect on the importance of family, faith, and community, and share their predictions for business trends in 2026. They also offer practical advice for female entrepreneurs, emphasizing the value of authenticity, intentionality, and habit stacking. The episode concludes with a look ahead to 2026 and a special surprise for listeners.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:59 Wedding Preparations and Sisterly Competition01:50 Entrepreneurial Ventures and Family Business03:29 Flower Business and Community Engagement05:51 Beauty Products and Coaching Team07:41 Social Media Strategies and Predictions for 202611:38 In-Person Events and Shopping Trends16:07 Grandma Core and Embracing Slow Living18:18 Family Time and Work-Life Balance18:45 Scheduling Meaningful Moments19:19 Involving Kids in Work20:20 The Importance of Community and Family Farm21:07 Habit Stacking for a Better Life23:39 Admin Nights: Combining Work and Socializing26:26 Faith and Family Values28:39 Intentional Living in 202629:59 Final Thoughts and EncouragementShop Red Aspen: https://redaspenlove.com/pages/incentive?srsltid=AfmBOopNOkswz8PWWlG-dJfmkmIG30focRh90PpRD91xzZowMyvRnzNJ&pws=amandaradkePresented by Bid on Beef | CK6 Consulting | CK6 Source | Real Tuff Livestock Equipment | Redmond RealSalt | Dirt Road Radio | All American Angus Beef | Radke Land & CattleUse code RADKE for $10 off your next All American Angus Beef order at www.BidOnBeef.comSave on Redmond Real Salt with code RADKE at https://shop.redmondagriculture.com/Check out Amanda's agricultural children's books here: https://amandaradke.com/collections/amandas-booksLearn more about Bulletproofing Your Direct-To-Consumer Beef Enterprise: https://amandaradke.com/products/bulletproof-your-beef-business