The Bright Future of Agriculture and the Power of Authentic Storytelling

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, I opened my heart to share a deeply personal journey—one shaped by grief, resilience, and unexpected opportunities. The loss of my husband in December of 2020 marked a turning point in my life, forcing me to redefine not only my personal world but also my professional outlook. Through the lessons I’ve learned, I’ve come to realize how interconnected our individual growth, community, and the bright future of agriculture truly are.

This year, I spent the anniversary of losing Josh volunteering with the FFA as a judge for their speaking events at the state LDE Conference in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Interacting with the kids really did show me how bright the future of ag is, and how much passion this new generation has. 

In a strange twist of events, as I was judging I was approached to be the last minute fill-in for the keynote speaker that evening. The conference concludes with an award ceremony with over 700 people in attendance, and the speaker they had booked could no longer be there. Word spread that I was a speaker and already there, and they asked me to give my BINGO card speech to inspire the kids. 

With only two hours to prepare, I got on stage and shared my story of resistance with the kids. They were a fantastic, and engaged audience. It was truly great to see that my message was getting through to them. 

Embracing Change and Resilience

Change is never easy, but it’s often where we find the most growth. After my loss, I discovered that life doesn’t wait for us to be ready—it simply moves forward. What I’ve learned is that embracing change can open doors to opportunities we never anticipated. This mindset has helped me approach both personal and professional challenges with a newfound determination and clarity.

Resilience doesn’t mean avoiding pain; it means facing it head-on and letting it shape you into a stronger, more authentic version of yourself. It’s in those moments of vulnerability that we find our strength, and by sharing our struggles, we help others feel less alone.

The Bright Future of Agriculture

One of the most hopeful takeaways I’ve found in recent years is that the future of agriculture is incredibly bright. Today’s youth are bringing so much passion, innovation, and creativity to the field. Whether it’s sustainable farming practices, new technology, or an increasing focus on community-supported agriculture, the next generation is proving that farming isn’t just a career—it’s a calling.

Their enthusiasm inspires me, and it’s a reminder that every season brings renewal—not just for our crops, but for our spirits.

Community and Connection

In the wake of my loss, I leaned heavily on my community. The support I received reminded me that we are never truly alone. Engaging with others—whether through the simple act of growing flowers or through meaningful conversations—has been a source of healing and purpose.

Community isn’t just a group of people; it’s a shared connection, a sense of belonging. By being present for others and allowing them to show up for me, I found a way to move forward while honoring my past.

The Power of Storytelling

Public speaking has become an unexpected but rewarding part of my journey. I’ve learned that effective speaking isn’t about presenting a flawless message—it’s about storytelling. When I share my authentic experiences, whether about grief, farming, or life’s uncertainties, I connect with others in a way that transcends the stage.

Authenticity resonates. You don’t need to have all the answers; you just need to share your truth.

Focus on What Matters

At the end of the day, life’s challenges teach us to focus on what truly matters—our relationships, our passions, and the impact we leave on the world. The universe has a way of providing opportunities when you least expect them, but you have to be open to receiving them.

As I continue this journey, I’m reminded of the beauty in both flowers and people: we all have the potential to bloom, even after the hardest of seasons.