Greener Pastures: struggles, hopes, and resilience of America's family farmers with producer lan Kibbe

Greener Pastures, a compelling PBS documentary, takes audiences inside the struggles, hopes, and resilience of America’s family farmers. In this interview with producer Ian Kibbe, we highlight urgent challenges shaping agriculture today—through voices like Jeff Ditzenberger, veteran, corn and soybean farmer and Rural Minds and TUGS founder, as well as Chris Petersen, a tireless sustainable agriculture farmer, advocate and board member of the Organization of Competitive Markets, who works tirelessly lobbying for farmers’ rights.

Family farmers have long been the backbone of rural America, providing not only food but also stability, tradition, and community. Yet today, many of these farms are disappearing. As one farmer shares, “The trouble with farming is the decisions are made with the heart instead of the head.” This emotional reality collides with economic hardships and unpredictable weather patterns that leave farmers questioning their futures.

The documentary sheds light on the devastating stress that comes with farming in the 21st century. From mounting debt to climate instability, farmers face immense challenges. At the same time, they remain deeply connected to the land, making choices that affect not only their own families but also the environment and food systems we all depend on.

Greener Pastures also highlights the resilience of these farmers, showcasing their determination to adapt, innovate, and keep farming alive despite the odds. Viewers will witness stories of people fighting to preserve a way of life while confronting the forces of industrial agriculture that prioritize profit over sustainability and community health.
In this interview, the producer reflects on why Greener Pastures is not just a film about farming, but a story about survival, hope, and the urgent need to support sustainable agriculture. It is a call to action for anyone who cares about where our food comes from, who grows it, and how our choices impact the future of our planet.

Whether you are a farmer, an advocate for sustainable food systems, or someone concerned about climate change and community resilience, Greener Pastures offers an intimate, eye-opening perspective. This conversation invites you to see the people behind the food on your table and to understand the stakes of preserving family farms in an era of rapid change.

Watch the full interview, share it with your network, and join the conversation about the future of farming. Together, we can ensure a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.