Humble Ground

Yes, Robots Milk the Cows Now - Buessing Holsteins

Brent Buessing of Buessing Holsteins represents the fourth generation of a Kansas dairy operation—but the way he farms today looks a lot different than it did for the generations before him. In this episode, we sit down with Brent to talk about how technology—specifically robotic milking systems—is reshaping the dairy industry. From improving efficiency and animal care to giving farmers better data and flexibility, Brent shares what’s working, what’s changing, and what the future of dairy could look like. It’s a conversation rooted in tradition, but focused on what’s next—proving that even in one of agriculture’s most established sectors, innovation is moving fast. For more episodes visit https://www.humblegroundag.com

The Hail Melon: Ross Chastain on Farming, Racing, and Going All-In

Ross Chastain didn’t just grow up around racing—he grew up in watermelon fields. Long before the spotlight, he was loading trucks, working the land, and learning what hard work really looks like on his family’s farm in Alva, Florida. In this episode of Humble Ground, Ross talks about those roots, how agriculture shaped his mindset, and why he still carries that identity with him today. We get into the grind of balancing farming and racing early on, the path that led him through NASCAR’s ranks, and how he’s built a career on outworking and outlasting. From hauling watermelons to pulling off the now-legendary “Hail Melon” move, Ross shares what it takes to bet on yourself and keep pushing forward. Now competing full-time with Trackhouse Racing, it’s still the same mentality—show up, work hard, and don’t forget where you came from. Watch more episodes at https://www.humblegroundag.com Learn more about Melon 1 at https://melon1.com

From One Generation to the Next - Burdiek Farms

Tim Burdiek bought his first farm in 1979—right before agriculture hit some of its toughest years. What followed in the 80s tested everything: finances, faith, and whether the farm would survive at all.In this episode, Tim and his son Kent sit down to talk through those hard years, what it really took to hang on, and how those experiences shaped the way they farm today. Now, with Kent farming full-time and raising the next generation, the conversation shifts to what comes next. What does the future of Burdiek Farms look like? What challenges are still ahead? And what does it take to keep a family farm moving forward in today’s world? This is a story about resilience, lessons learned the hard way, and the responsibility of passing something on that’s bigger than yourself. View more episodes at https://www.humblegroundag.com

Built in the Flint Hills - Jones Family Angus & Flint Hills Stockyards

Spencer Jones and his wife didn’t inherit a cattle operation—they built one from the ground up. What started at Kansas State University as a shared vision turned into Jones Family Angus, a first-generation operation rooted in the heart of the Flint Hills. While she continues her work at K-State, together they’ve carved out their place in the cattle industry—raising Angus cattle with intention, grit, and a long-term mindset. In 2024, that vision expanded even further. Alongside Jay Rezac and his family, they stepped into ownership of Flint Hills Stockyards—one of the region’s most important livestock markets. From starting with nothing to helping shape the future of a historic sale barn, this is a story about betting on yourself, building something that lasts, and doing it in a place that still believes in hard work. Watch this episode and more at https://www.humblegroundag.com

Building Your Way Back Home - The Next Generation

A lot of folks think taking over the family farm just happens—but for most, it’s anything but easy. In this episode, Corbin, Austin, Will, and Blake sit down with Tim to talk about what it really looks like to be the next generation. Working off the farm, coming back, earning your place, and figuring out how to build something alongside the generation before you. There’s no straight path. Just long days, tough conversations, and a whole lot of commitment to something bigger than yourself. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to come back and carry it on—this one’s for you. Watch more episodes at https://www.humblegroundag.com