Mind Your Melon
By Mind Your Melon
Reflections on Farmer Resilience and Mental Health: Wrapping Up the May Mini-Series
In the final episode of the May mini-series, Taylor and Marshal step back to reflect on what theyâve learned from their conversations with Dr. Carrie Baker and the insights from the Mind Your Melon Farmer Wellbeing Survey. This wrap-up episode takes a heartfelt look at the emotional core of agricultureâresilience, stress, risk, and above all, hope.
Through thoughtful conversation (and a few well-placed metaphors), Taylor and Marshal explore:
- The meaning of resilience and hardiness in rural life
- How farmers can navigate stress and uncertainty
- What it means to hold on to hope through difficult seasons
- Their personal takeaways from this groundbreaking mental health initiative
This episode is both a tribute to the farming community and a call to keep pushing forward with compassion, courage, and connection.
đ§ Tune in for an honest, uplifting conversation that reminds us why farmer mental health mattersâand why hope is always worth planting.
đ Remember to check in on your loved ones. Check in on yourself. And always Mind Your Melon.
Whatâs Next for Farmer Mental Health? Dr. Carrie Baker Reflects on the Mind Your Melon Survey and the Road Ahead
In this episode, Taylor and Marshal sit down once more with Dr. Carrie Baker, the social scientist behind the Mind Your Melon Farmer Wellbeing Survey, to explore the implications of the studyâs findings and what they mean for the future of mental health in agriculture.
Dr. Baker shares thoughtful reflections on the data collected and offers a forward-looking perspective on how this research can shape:
- Future academic and community-based research
- Strategic programs for farmer and rancher well-being
- Tactical approaches to reduce stress and support ag families
- Community development efforts rooted in mental health support
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about mental health in rural communities, ag advocacy, and long-term resilience in the farming industry.
đ§ Join us as Dr. Baker looks ahead, offering insights and hope for creating a healthier, more supportive agricultural future.
đ And rememberâcheck in on your loved ones. Check in on yourself. And always Mind Your Melon.
Digging Deeper into Farmer Mental Health: Dr. Carrie Baker Breaks Down the Mind Your Melon Survey Findings
In this follow-up episode, hosts Taylor and Marshal continue their meaningful conversation with Dr. Carrie Baker, the social scientist behind the Mind Your Melon Farmer Wellbeing Survey, a critical study focused on mental health in Florida agriculture.
This time, Dr. Baker takes us behind the scenes of the survey's design, methodology, and key findings, offering valuable insight into the real challenges farm and ranch families are facing. The discussion covers:
- Who participated in the study and what the demographics reveal
- Major stressors impacting the Florida ag industry
- Common coping mechanisms used by producers
- What resources farmers are asking forâand what they truly need
With candid discussion and data-backed insight, this episode is essential listening for anyone interested in farmer mental health, agricultural well-being, and building more resilient rural communities.
đ§ Tune in to hear Dr. Baker illuminate the voices behind the dataâand the hope that comes from listening.
đ Donât forget: check in on your loved ones, check in on yourselfâand always remember to Mind Your Melon.
Tackling Farmer Mental Health with Dr. Carrie Baker: Inside the Mind Your Melon Farmer Wellbeing Survey
In this powerful episode of the podcast, Taylor and Marshal welcome social scientist Dr. Carrie Baker, a passionate advocate for rural mental health and well-being in agriculture. Dr. Baker played a pivotal role in designing and deploying the Mind Your Melon Farmer Wellbeing Survey, a grassroots initiative focused on mental health in Florida's agricultural communities.
Tune in as Dr. Baker shares her personal story, lived experience, and what inspired her commitment to addressing mental health stigma in farming. The trio dives deep into the origin story behind this groundbreaking survey, discussing how collaboration, strategy, and community partnerships helped bring the project to life.
Whether you're a farmer, mental health professional, or advocate, this episode offers valuable insights into how we can better support the emotional resilience of those who feed us.
đ§ Listen now to hear Dr. Bakerâs take on farmer stress, mental health in agriculture, and building hope through data and dialogue.
đ Donât forget: check in on your loved ones, check in on yourselfâand always remember to Mind Your Melon.
Kicking Off the May Mini-Series â Mind Your Melon Returns
After a short hiatus, hosts Taylor and Marshal are back and launching the May Mini-Series with a powerful new episode focused on Mind Your Melon Foundationâs vision for supporting farmer mental health and wellbeing.
In this kickoff episode, they:
Reintroduce the Mind Your Melon Foundation and its mission
Reflect on the last episode, recorded during the launch of the Mind Your Melon Farmer Wellbeing Survey
Open up about life changes and challenges over the past few months
Share uplifting stories of hope, resilience, and encouragement
This episode sets the stage for the rest of the May Mini-Series, where Taylor and Marshal will sit down with Dr. Carrie Baker to dive deep into the results of the Mind Your Melon Farmer Wellbeing Surveyâand what it means for farmers, the agricultural community, and the future work of the MYM Foundation.
Donât miss this important conversation. Subscribe, listen, and shareâand always remember to check in on your loved ones, check in on yourself, and mind your melon.
A Mind Your Melon Monologue with Marshal
We're kicking off the new season with a few updates from Marshal, an overview of the Mind Your Melon Farmer Wellbeing Survey, and a discussion focused on the misconception that mental health and wellbeing is only a "young person's issue."
How stuck are you? Mental Health Awareness Month
Happy May! For anyone who doesn't know, May is Mental Health Awareness month. We're excited to share this episode with you, particularly if you're feeling a little stuck. We'll talk about introspection and how to take proactive steps towards understanding and improving our mental health and well-being.
Check out our new resource How stuck are you? in the resources section of our website.
Hot Takes and Hot Cakes
Introducing Hot Takes and Hot Cakes - a new way to connect with producers, growers, and all Mind Your Melon fans! Marshal and Taylor introduce this new episode type and give their first hot take. Coming to a breakfast joint near you!
From Ashes to Unstoppable - The Farm Fit Momma, Amanda Nigg
Busy Start to 2024!
In this episode, Marshal and Taylor catch up on their recent travels, recap the Faith, Family and Farming mini-series, and share some big news!
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Like what youâre listening to and want to hear more? Be sure to give a like and follow for notifications on new episode releases.
Thoughts on topics and potential guests to help bring better conversations to our listeners? Please send them our way!
And, as always, donât forget to mind your melon!
Faith, Family, and Farming - Part 4
This is the final episode of our Faith, Family, and Farming mini-series and weâre excited to host John Coker, the pastor at First Baptist of Bronson, Florida.
Weâve followed this mini-series throughout Advent and are wrapping up right in time for Christmas. As we know, this can be a magical time for some and a difficult time for others.
During our conversation, John shares his personal background, some of his very own faith-based stories, and his views on the significance of community - especially during the holidays.
Merry Christmas and #mindyourmelon!
Our Faith, Family, and Farming mini-series is brought to you in partnership with â â â Fowler Plant Companyâ â â of Moultrie, Georgia. For any commercial seed or transplant-related needs going into your next season, feel free to reach out to the Fowler Family (â â â Fowler Plant Companyâ â â ).
From now until January 1st, use the promo code âPODCAST15â for an additional 15% any â â â Melon Mike purchasesâ â â .
Like what youâre listening to and want to hear more? Be sure to give a like and follow for notifications on new episode releases.
Thoughts on topics and potential guests to help bring better conversations to our listeners? Please send them our way!
And, as always, donât forget to mind your melon!
Faith, Family, and Farming - Part 3
Welcome back to another episode of the Mind Your Melon Podcast!
During this conversation, Taylor sits down with Adrian Land Sr., a sixth generation farmer and cattleman in the Suwannee Valley area of north Florida. Aside from his extensive background in the agriculture industry, Adrian also possesses a strong faith and an academic background in theology. Farming and faith have taken him and his family around the world as they have visited, learned, and ministered to others beyond their local community.
Stay tuned as Adrian shares some personal stories and perspective on Faith, Family, and Farming!
Our Faith, Family, and Farming mini-series will be brought to you in partnership with â â Fowler Plant Companyâ â of Moultrie, Georgia. For any commercial seed or transplant-related needs going into your next season, feel free to reach out to the Fowler Family (â â Fowler Plant Companyâ â ).
From now until January 1st, use the promo code âPODCAST15â for an additional 15% any â â Melon Mike purchasesâ â .
Like what youâre listening to and want to hear more? Be sure to give a like and follow for notifications on new episode releases.
Thoughts on topics and potential guests to help bring better conversations to our listeners? Please send them our way!
And, as always, donât forget to mind your melon!
Faith, Family, and Farming - Part 2
While providing a sense of structure and stability within our lives, faith can often lead us to a sense of purpose or personal mission, as well. In this episode, Marshal has the opportunity to sit down with his longtime friend, Kevin Hutcheson, who received the calling to minister and share his faith with communities around the world.
Kevin reminisces on old times with Marshal while also telling stories from his worldly travels and experiences in his mission field.
Our Faith, Family, and Farming mini-series will be brought to you in partnership with â Fowler Plant Companyâ of Moultrie, Georgia. For any commercial seed or transplant-related needs going into your next season, feel free to reach out to the Fowler Family (â Fowler Plant Companyâ ).
From now until January 1st, use the promo code âPODCAST15â for an additional 15% any â Melon Mike purchasesâ .
Like what youâre listening to and want to hear more? Be sure to give a like and follow for notifications on new episode releases.
Thoughts on topics and potential guests to help bring better conversations to our listeners? Please send them our way!
And, as always, donât forget to mind your melon!
Faith, Family, and Farming - Part 1
On this episode, Marshal and Taylor kick off their Faith, Family, and Farming mini-series. These episodes, which will be shared throughout the month of December, will highlight various stories and perspectives on faith and connections to the subjects of family and farming.
While it is no secret or surprise that faith can play a critical role in oneâs ability to navigate difficult times, Marshal and Taylor speak very openly about their personal experiences in this episode and the broader picture of hope their faith has provided them.
You can expect to hear some of the origin behind Mind Your Melon, the start of Marshal and Taylorâs family, their struggles with loss and grief, and the reminder there is still good to come despite the tough times.
Our Faith, Family, and Farming mini-series will be brought to you in partnership with Fowler Plant Company of Moultrie, Georgia. For any commercial seed or transplant-related needs going into your next season, feel free to reach out to the Fowler Family (Fowler Plant Company).
From now until January 1st, use the promo code âPODCAST15â for an additional 15% any Melon Mike purchases.
Like what youâre listening to and want to hear more? Be sure to give a like and follow for notifications on new episode releases.
Thoughts on topics and potential guests to help bring better conversations to our listeners? Please send them our way!
And, as always, donât forget to mind your melon!
Disaster Response Planning
In this episode, Marshal talks with Dr. Angie Lindsey, an associate professor in the UF/IFAS Department of Family, Youth, and Community Sciences and the UF/IFAS Center for Public Issues Education for Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Dr. Lindsey is the Florida point of contact for the Extension Disaster Education Network - a collaborative multi-state effort by Cooperative Extension Services across the country to improve the delivery of services to citizens affected by disasters.
She reflects on her experiences working with producers during disaster response and shares helpful tips on how we can best prepare for the unexpected.
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Like what youâre listening to and want to hear more? Be sure to give a like and follow for notifications on the new episode releases.
Thoughts on topics and potential guests to help bring better conversations to our listeners? Please send them our way!
And, as always, donât forget to mind your melon!
Visit our â websiteâ and follow us on the â Facebookâ and â Instagramâ for additional resources.
Hardiness and Financial Wellbeing
In this episode, Marshal discusses hardiness and financial wellbeing with Dr. Elio Chiarelli, chief executive officer of Capital Defender Advisors.
Like what youâre listening to and want to hear more? Be sure to give a like and follow for notifications on the new episode releases.
Thoughts on topics and potential guests to help bring better conversations to our listeners? Please send them our way!
And, as always, donât forget to mind your melon!
Visit our website and follow us on the Facebook and Instagram for additional resources.
We're back! Kicking off Season 2!
Welcome back to the newest season of the Mind Your Melon podcast!
In this opening episode, Taylor and Marshal sit down to reflect on the past few months since the wrap-up of Mayâs Mental Health Mini-Series. Itâs been a busy summer for the duo and they provide some updates on recent events, discuss some new experiences and observations, and talk through plans for the season ahead.
Like what youâre listening to and want to hear more? Be sure to give a like and follow for notifications on the new episode releases.
Thoughts on topics and potential guests to help bring better conversations to our listeners? Please send them our way!
And, as always, donât forget to mind your melon!
Visit our website and follow us on the Facebook and Instagram for additional resources.
Stress 101 with Dr. Grant
Dr. Grant McDougall - Southeastern Counseling and Consultation
Dr. Grant McDougall is a licensed mental health counselor, a national board-certified counselor, and a recognized speaker and trainer at national and international conferences. He is a board member of the National Sheriffâs Associationâs Psychological Services Section and the Small & Rural Law Enforcement Executives Association. He owns and operates Southeastern Counseling and Consultation; a private company with multiple offices in Florida that specializes in serving first responders.
Dr. McDougall has accumulated thousands of clinical hours counseling individuals from all walks of life. However, over the past couple of decades, he has specialized in working with law enforcement and first responders. In that role, you may find him in a clinical setting, doing fieldwork on the Border with a cartel interdiction team, or on stage as a keynote speaker. When he's not working, he enjoys his time on the water in SW Florida.
For anyone who doesn't know, May is Mental Health Awareness month. Mind Your Melon has been working with Bayer Vegetable Seeds to do something special in honor of this month. Bayer Vegetable Seeds is committed to delivering on their vision of health for all and hunger for none, and the mental well-being of farmers and other agricultural stakeholders is critical to that goal. A big thanks to Bayer for their support as we share this mini-series of episodes along with some other cool surprises throughout the month of May.
Visit our website and follow us on the Facebook and Instagram for additional resources.
Investing in Your Financial Well-being - Pat Spinosa
Pat Spinosa - Director of Business Development, AgAmerica Lending
Pat Spinosa is the Director of Business Development, joining the AgAmerica family in 2017. He studied geomatics at the University of Florida and has multigenerational roots in Florida agriculture.
Pat is a sixth-generation citrus and cattle farmer. He remains highly active in the agricultural community and organizations such as Florida FFA Foundation, the American Farm Bureau Federation, and the Florida Forestry Association. He also sits on the board of the Florida Ag Hall of Fame and is the chairman of his local Ducks Unlimited chapter. Through these experiences, heâs had the opportunity to build relationships with family-owned farm operations across the nation. He enjoys making a positive impact on the lives of American youth and encouraging the development of their skills in leadership, personal growth, and professional success through agricultural education.
For anyone who doesn't know, May is Mental Health Awareness month. Mind Your Melon has been working with Bayer Vegetable Seeds to do something special in honor of this month. Bayer Vegetable Seeds is committed to delivering on their vision of health for all and hunger for none, and the mental well-being of farmers and other agricultural stakeholders is critical to that goal. A big thanks to Bayer for their support as we share this mini-series of episodes along with some other cool surprises throughout the month of May.
Visit our website and follow us on the Facebook and Instagram for additional resources.
Find the Balance & Enjoyment of Food Again - Kelly Bristow
Kelly Bristow - Global Nutrition Affairs Lead - Bayer, Crop Science
Kelly is a registered dietitian who connects food and nutrition professionals with agriculturalists to create advocates and defenders of modern agriculture. She manages Bayerâs Nutrition Expert Network of dietitians who promote the science behind tools that enable a sustainable food supply. She also manages global partnerships for science and nutrition.
Kelly completed her undergraduate studies at Southeast Missouri State University. After graduating, she went on to complete her dietetic internship and masterâs degree at St. Louis University. Kellyâs background includes one-on-one counseling in an out- patient setting, nutrition education and school food service. Her enthusiasm for agriculture grew while she was a nutrition educator with St. Louis District Dairy Council, where she worked alongside dairy farmers and taught consumers about the benefits of dairy. Kellyâs passion continued to grow while supporting child nutrition through school meals at a local school district. She directed the school districtâs farm-to-school program and educated students and members of the community about where food comes from, how food is grown and the importance of eating more fruit and vegetables. Kelly and her husband live in St. Louis with their son (Ben) and daughter (Maddie). She enjoys cooking, spending time outside or taking advantage of all the great things the city has to offer! You can find her on Twitter @KellyBristowRD, LinkedIn @KellyBristow MS,RDN, LD and Instagram @kbristowrd.
For anyone who doesn't know, May is Mental Health Awareness month. Mind Your Melon has been working with Bayer Vegetable Seeds to do something special in honor of this month. Bayer Vegetable Seeds is committed to delivering on their vision of health for all and hunger for none, and the mental well-being of farmers and other agricultural stakeholders is critical to that goal. A big thanks to Bayer for their support as we share this mini-series of episodes along with some other cool surprises throughout the month of May.
Visit our website and follow us on the Facebook and Instagram for additional resources.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
We're kicking off our Mental Health Awareness month mini-series by reflecting on some of our favorite moments from our past episodes. It's been quite the adventure with a lot more to come! We also highlight some of the episodes and fun coming up this month.
For anyone who doesn't know, May is Mental Health Awareness month. Mind Your Melon has been working with Bayer Vegetable Seeds to do something special in honor of this month. Bayer Vegetable Seeds is committed to delivering on their vision of health for all and hunger for none, and the mental well-being of farmers and other agricultural stakeholders is critical to that goal. A big thanks to Bayer for their support as we share this mini-series of episodes along with some other cool surprises throughout the month of May.
Visit our website and follow us on the Facebook and Instagram for additional resources.
Squeeze the Day - Lindy Savelle
In this episode, Taylor sits down with Mrs. Lindy Savelle who, to use her own words, is a âretired federal law enforcement officer gone citrus farmer!â
Along with being the owner and operator of both Georgia Grown Citrus and JoNina Farms in Ochlocknee, Georgia, she is also serving as the current president of the Georgia Citrus Association.
During this conversation, Lindy shares personal stories and perspective based on her diverse background and, ultimately, reminds listeners of ways they can âsqueeze the day.â
Visit our website and follow us on the Facebook and Instagram for additional resources.
You Arenât Walking Alone - Mike Joyner (FFVA)
In this episode we talk with Mike Joyner, president of the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association. A respected leader across the agriculture industry, Mike leads the day-to-day operations of FFVA and oversees the associationâs work in areas of advocacy, labor, food safety, water and natural resources, crop protection, transportation, trade and more.
In our conversation, Mike discusses the importance of mental health and farm stress and how organizations like FFVA are stepping up to the challenge.
Visit our website and follow us on the Facebook and Instagram for additional resources.
Turning Failure into Success
In this episode, we sit down with Philip Watts from Full Circle Dairy in Lee, Florida. Philip is a fifth generation dairyman whose family has witnessed their fair share of change and challenge in the local industry.
During this conversation, we get to learn more about the Philipâs operation, his views on resilience, the ability to turn failure into a success, and what motivates him to continue pushing forward in the dairy business.