Food Security Beyond the Farm | Jeff Lakner

What does food security really mean, and why does it matter beyond agriculture? Jeff Lochner has spent his life working in farming, ranching, and agricultural finance, giving him a unique perspective on that question.

In this episode, Jeff joins Levi to share his journey as a fourth-generation farmer and rancher in eastern South Dakota. After graduating from South Dakota State, Jeff began his career as a farm credit system lender in Iowa and Nebraska before returning to his family’s diversified crop and livestock operation. His decision to come back was shaped by a family turning point, ultimately leading him to help carry on and grow a multigenerational farm.

What You'll Hear: Jeff shares what it’s like to operate a large, diversified farm and ranch, including crops like wheat, corn, soybeans, and managing a sizable cow herd. He talks about the realities of returning to a family operation, working alongside multiple generations, and how roles evolve over time. He also reflects on his experience in agricultural lending and how it shaped his understanding of the broader ag industry.

You’ll gain insight into the challenges and responsibilities of multigenerational farming, the connection between agriculture and financial systems, and why Jeff believes food security is not just an agricultural issue, but a national one.