Forage Quality: Preparing for a Successful First Cutting with Joe Lawrence

Don’t Do This: Farming Mistakes We’ve All Made with Dr. Richard Brzozowski

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, host Colt W. Knight is once again joined by Richard Brzozowski, professor emeritus and former Extension livestock specialist, for a practical and story-driven discussion on common mistakes new farmers make and how to avoid them. Drawing from decades of experience in Extension and agriculture, Brzozowski shares insights from working with beginning farmers, along with reflections from his travels observing agricultural systems around the world. The conversation covers critical topics such as starting too big, failing to keep records, making poor equipment decisions and relying on a single market outlet. Listeners will hear real-world examples, from livestock purchasing mistakes to infrastructure design flaws, and learn why building a strong network of trusted advisers is essential. Whether you are just getting started or looking to refine your operation, this episode delivers practical, no-nonsense advice to help you avoid costly pitfalls and build a more resilient farm business. University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

Little Boots, Big Lessons: Parenting on the Farm

Raising kids on a farm comes with a unique mix of challenges, responsibilities and rewards. In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, we dive into what it really means to parent in an agricultural setting. From chore schedules and safety considerations to balancing farm work with family life, our conversation explores how farm families pass along values such as work ethic, resilience and stewardship while navigating the realities of modern agriculture. We discuss the benefits of growing up around livestock and land, the lessons children learn through hands-on experiences, and how farm parents adapt as operations, expectations and family dynamics change over time. Whether you are raising the next generation on a working farm, considering how to safely involve kids in daily chores or simply curious about farm family life, this episode offers thoughtful insights, practical perspectives and a few relatable moments along the way. University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

From Barns to Biotech: The IDEXX Story and the Power of Diagnostics with Rick Linscott

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Glenda and Colt sit down with Rick Linscott, a retired senior scientist from IDEXX Laboratories, based in Westbrook, Maine. Rick reflects on his 35-year career with the Maine-based diagnostics company, tracing its evolution from early livestock and poultry testing to its global work in companion animal, water quality and biomedical diagnostics. Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how diagnostic tools are developed, why livestock testing remains critical despite representing a smaller share of the market, and how Maine has become a hub for biotech innovation. * Learn about IDEXX [https://www.idexx.com/en/] * Livestock SNAP tests [https://www.idexx.com/en/livestock/livestock-tests/ruminant-tests/idexx-pregnancy-tests/pregnancy-and-diagnostic-tests/] This episode was recorded at the 2026 Maine Agricultural Trades Show in Augusta, Maine. University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

A Passion for Wool: Spinning Stories and Sheep with Dr. Erin Percival Carter

On this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Dr. Glenda Pereira, assistant Extension professor and state dairy specialist with University of Maine Cooperative Extension, talks with Dr. Erin Percival Carter, associate professor of marketing at the University of Maine. Although Carter is a UMaine professor, the conversation focuses on her role as a diversified farmer, including her naturally colored Corriedale sheep flock, hand-spinning wool and the Maine Fiber Frolic. * Learn more about Carter’s research program [https://umaine.edu/business/people/erin-percival-carter/] * Maine Fiber Frolic [https://fiberfrolic.com/], June 6-7, 2026 * Wisconsin Dairy State Cheese Company [https://dairystatecheese.com/] University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

Planning for Success in Animal Agriculture with Dr. Richard Brzozowski

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, host Colt W. Knight sits down with longtime colleague, mentor and former Extension administrator Richard Brzozowski to reflect on a lifetime in agriculture and the realities of raising livestock. From early 4-H experiences and dairy farm work to decades of Extension service, Brzozowski shares stories that highlight how a passion for animals develops and why not everyone is naturally suited for livestock production. The conversation blends humor and hard-earned wisdom, offering listeners a candid look at what it truly means to work with animals. The discussion dives into the benefits and drawbacks of farm animal enterprises. Together, they explore how livestock can convert forage into valuable products, improve soil health and provide personal fulfillment while also requiring daily care, financial planning and risk management. From zoonotic diseases and market volatility to the importance of starting small and building a realistic business plan, the episode provides practical guidance for anyone considering livestock production, whether as a lifestyle or a business. University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].