Episode Description
Most ranchers know the Farm Service Agency exists, but few fully understand the programs, payments, and opportunities available to them. In this episode, John sits down with two former FSA employees, Kailee Butterfield and Micayla Giffin, to break down how these programs really work and how ranchers can use them as practical management tools rather than confusing government paperwork.
Kailee and Micayla explain why participating in FSA programs can create a real competitive advantage, how deadlines and rules actually function at the county level, and what ranchers need to know before signing up for contracts or disaster programs. They walk through common challenges, what producers can realistically expect, and how to build a productive relationship with your local office.
This conversation is a grounded, honest guide to how FSA programs fit into a profitable operation and how to use them wisely without relying on them to save the ranch.
Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!
In this episode, we cover:
- Why participating in FSA programs can create a real competitive advantage
- The major categories of programs ranchers should know about
- How FSA loans work and when they make sense for new or growing operations
- Common challenges producers face and how to navigate confusing rules
- How deadlines, paperwork, and county office differences really work
- Practical tips for staying informed and building strong relationships with staff
Connect with Kailee:
- Send an email at kailee@ranchrightllc.com
Connect with Micayla:
- Send an email at micayla@ranchrightllc.com
- Follow on Instagram @micaylagiffin
- Follow on Facebook @micayla.giffin and @GiffinFarms
- Subscribe to YouTube @GiffinFarms
Connect with Ranch Right:
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
- Follow on Facebook
- Check out the website
- Check out all of our past webinars here
Resources & Links:
- ChatGPT FSA Program Navigator Tool
- Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
- Ranching for Profit
- Ranching.FYI
- Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC
Mentioned in this episode:
At Ranch Right, we build financial systems that make sense for real ranch operations — bookkeeping, reporting, and strategy that actually work. Make this the year you stop guessing and start managing with clarity. Click the link below to learn more.