In this episode, we are honored to have Mark Handlos on to share his story — a farm kid turned medical warrior whose life is rooted in resilience, hope, and an unshakable sense of humor. Mark opens up about what it was like growing up in rural Iowa and then facing a mysterious illness that began at age 15. With no diagnosis and no treatment that worked for more than a decade, he battled episodes that left him unable to walk, urinate on his own, or even see.
Mark shares how he navigated some of his darkest days with humor, the importance of the people he keeps close, and the mindset that’s carried him through. We talk about how his experience shaped the way he shows up in the world today and what he’s learned through the years.
For all the heaviness of what he’s faced, this conversation is surprisingly light-hearted. I hope it leaves you with a deeper appreciation for the little things and serves as a reminder that even in the unknown, we can choose to live forward.
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If the words “hedging,” “options,” or “basis” make your eyes glaze over — this episode is for you.
Today I’m joined by Zach Tindall, a commodity broker with Producers Livestock and a farmer feeder himself, to break down price protection tools in plain English. We talk about the real-world side of managing market risk — not just the theory, but how it actually works when you’ve got cattle on feed and money on the line.
We cover:
Zach also shares stories from the farm and how working alongside his dad shapes the way he serves producers today.
Whether you've got 50 head or 5,000, this episode gives you the tools — and confidence — to start protecting your bottom line.
Links & Resources:
Learn more about Producers Livestock | Livestock Marketing, Commodities & Credit
Sign up for Zach's Weekly Market Commentary
June 30 is the last day to switch LRP agents for the 2026 insurance year. Give Zach a call to discuss switching LRP agents to Producers Livestock: 712-274-0539
Like what you heard? Share with someone who could use a little less guesswork and a little more piece of mind.
Follow along for more stories from the road, the farm, and everywhere in between.
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch, Aly sits down with farmer and cattle feeder Justin Heiman, a Carroll County native who built his own farming operation from the ground up. Justin shares how he got started with nothing but work ethic, a love for agriculture, and mentors who were willing to show him the ropes.
We talk about the highs and lows of getting into farming on your own, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and why serving on the Carroll County Cattlemen’s Association board matters to him. You’ll also hear some light-hearted stories from the farm and a few things only folks in ag will truly understand.
Whether you’re a young producer, a rural community supporter, or just someone who loves a good “made it happen” story, this episode is for you.
What We Cover:
Connect with the Carroll County Cattlemen’s Association on Facebook | Carroll County Cattlemen Beef Builder Program
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This episode is for the dads — the ones who hauled cattle before sunup, made you work when you got in trouble, and taught you how to let things roll off your back like water on a duck.
For this Father’s Day edition of The Rural Dispatch, we’ve pulled clips from past episodes where guests told stories about their dads — the things they said, the lessons they passed down, and the work ethic they demanded. You’ll hear about trucks, cattle, and the quiet wisdom rural dads are known for.
And at the end? Our boys, Ridge (4) and Royce (2.5), share a few thoughts on their own dad.
Whether you’re a dad, miss your dad, or are raising the next generation of hard-working kids, this one’s for you.
Listen in for:
Tag your dad or someone who’s been like a dad to you — and thanks for listening.
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In this episode, Smoke and I sit down for a real-time check-in — no guest, just us. Following up last week’s episode with Rich Pudenz felt like a tall order, but we wanted to bring it back home and share what’s going on behind the mic.
We talk about what it means to build a life and business together — especially when your past doesn’t look picture-perfect. From marriage and faith to cattle markets, networking, and finances, this episode covers everything happening behind the scenes.
Links & Resources:
JBS USA to Invest $135 Million in New Sausage Plant in Perry, Iowa — JBS Foods
Daisy Brand dairy plant coming to Boone in 2028 | weareiowa.com
Point Reyes lawsuits to force closures after decade-long battles | AGDAILY
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch, we sit down with Rich Pudenz—a cattle feeder now in his 90s—who shares what it was like growing up in rural America during the Great Depression, feeding cattle alongside his brothers, and watching the livestock industry evolve over the past century.
From early mornings in the feedlot to navigating tough market years, Rich reflects on what went well, what didn’t, and how much has changed in both agriculture and life. His stories are full of perspective that only time can offer.
Whether you’ve been in ag your whole life or you’re just curious about the roots of rural business, this conversation is one you won’t forget.
What You’ll Hear:
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Sit down with us as we talk with Howard Curry, owner of Howard Curry Transport Inc, a brokerage business with deep roots in hauling livestock.
Howard takes us all the way back to 1953, when his dad first got into hauling livestock. Born into the business in 1962, Howard's been a part of the livestock world ever since. At 16 years old, he quit school, moved out and went to work on his own -- building a life through trucking, livestock, dispatching, selling cars, and investing in real estate in Liberty, Indiana.
Tune in to find out how the livestock and trucking industries have evolved over the years, why keeping your word matters, how good drivers in this industry are undervalued, and what makes someone stand out in trucking today. Howard reminds us that success in business comes down to trust, commitment, and surrounding yourself with good people.
Whether you're behind the wheel, in an office, or just love a good American business story, Howard's journey is one worth listening to.
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In this episode, we sit down with Paul Radloff and Brittany Fenstemacher from Agar Transportation to talk about what it means to buy "blue sky" in the trucking industry. Paul bought the company with just $300 to his name but a whole lot of ambition to make it work. Brittany, the brains behind the scenes, helped bring structure to the transition and continues to play a vital role in operations.
We also talk openly about the current slowdown in the livestock transportation industry, how the weight of this season is affecting business owners and drivers alike, and why mental health awareness in this industry matters now more than ever.
This episode is full of real talk, laughs and insight.
Tune in to hear:
Links & Resources:
Agar Transportation | Fruitland, ID | Facebook | Paul Radloff (@agar.transportation) • Instagram photos and videos
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch, we’re sitting down with James and Megan Holz—farmers, livestock producers, entrepreneurs, and one of the husband-and-wife duos behind Iowa Cover Crop. James and Megan share the story of how they ventured into feeding hogs and the lessons they’ve learned navigating that world, and how it differs from cattle feeding. We dig into the unexpected origin of Iowa Cover Crop — a business that began over beers in a garage between friends, and how it’s grown into a trusted seed provider serving farmers across the Midwest and beyond. James also shares what it was like feeding cattle for the first time on his own and how his approach has evolved over the years. Both James and Megan open up about their professional backgrounds, James as a grain merchandiser and Megan as a CPA, and what it took to transition into running their own ag-focused businesses full-time. From restoring Iowa farmland back to pasture to graze cattle, to growing organic corn with long-term goals in mind, the Holz family is committed to making smart, sustainable moves in agriculture. This is a candid and practical conversation packed with insights for anyone balancing family, business, and a love of the land.
Resources & Links:
Iowa Cover Crop - Seed Dealer and Cover Crop - Central Iowa, Des Moines, Ames
Follow along on ICC's socials: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch, we sit down with one of our longtime drivers, Marty Wilken -- a man whose roots in trucking run deep. With well over 40 years behind the wheel, Marty shares his unforgettable stories from the road.
We cover everything from his family's start in trucking, dating back four generations, to his wildest stories from the road -- including the time(s) he got arrested. You'll also get a firsthand glimpse of what it's like to run under Behrens dispatch, and of course his go-to meal on the road. You won't want to miss these stories.
Love what you're hearing? Make sure to follow The Rural Dispatch and leave us a 5-star review! It helps us share more incredible rural stories with you.
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This episode is for the folks who don’t have time for two-a-days at the gym and green smoothies.
Whether you’re hauling cattle, running a business, raising kids, or all of the above — this conversation with Josh Snyder will give you practical, doable ways to move your body, eat better, and feel stronger.
Josh is the founder of FitNKC, a gym focused on real-life fitness for real people — and the nonprofit BlocLife, which serves veterans and individuals with disabilities. He’s passionate about expanding access to health and movement, especially in rural communities where gyms are few and far between.
In this episode, we cover:
Links & Resources:
FitNKC:
FitNKC | THE BEST GYM IN KANSAS CITY | THE FITNESS YOU'VE BEEN WAITING FOR | FitNKC (@fitnkc_gym) • Instagram photos and videos
Block Life:
Bloc Life | Serving the Underserved in Our Community | Facebook | Bloc Life (@thebloclife) • Instagram photos and videos | (12) Bloc Life: Overview | LinkedIn
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch, we sit down with Will Epperly, 2022 World Livestock Auctioneer Champion and co-owner of Dunlap Livestock Auction, to talk cattle, markets, and mentorship.
From growing up in his family's sale barn in Virginia to becoming one of the top voices in the industry, Will shares the path that led him to earn the world champion title and co-own one of Iowa’s most respected livestock markets. We dive into what it really takes to become a world-class auctioneer, how he sees the cattle market evolving, and why he’s passionate about educating folks outside of agriculture on just how much producers care about their cattle and communities.
Whether you’re in the ring every week or just curious about how livestock markets work, this conversation is full of heart, humor, and real talk about what it means to be a leader in rural America.
Mark Your Calendars: The 2025 Livestock Marketing Association (LMA) Annual Convention will be held June 4th-6th in Omaha, NE. Dunlap, IA will take center stage June 7th as it hosts the 2025 World Livestock Auctioneer Championship — a huge moment for Will, Dunlap Livestock, and the entire community. If you’re in the Midwest, it’s worth marking your calendar.
Resources & Mentions:
DUNLAP LIVESTOCK AUCTION | Facebook
LIVESTOCK MARKETING ASSOCIATION | Facebook
IOWA'S BEST PORK TENDERLOIN | Dairy Sweet
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch, we sit down with Denny Kluver, a retired livestock hauler who spent 30+ years driving for Jeff Behrens, the founder of Behrens Trucking. From the very first load to the day he hung up his keys, Denny witnessed firsthand the growth of a family-run business and the evolution of the livestock hauling industry.
We talk about what it was like to be on the road in the early days, the challenges of hauling cattle long before GPS and cell phones, and the traits that make a great truck driver. Denny shares old-school wisdom, wild stories from the road, and his perspective on how the trucking industry has changed over the last four decades.
Whether you’re behind the wheel or just love hearing from folks who’ve lived the lifestyle, this episode offers timeless insight into what it means to be a true cattle hauler.
What We Cover:
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In this week's episode of The Rural Dispatch, we continue last week's conversation with Smoke and Mark Toms to share more raw, (mostly) unfiltered stories from their younger years. From struggling to pay the bills to building successful businesses, these guys have been through it all, and today they're telling the stories that shaped them.
If you're broke, crashing on a couch, or just need a good laugh - this episode is for you. Keep working hard and don't be afraid of the struggle. It builds character. ;)
Leave a review and share this episode if you enjoyed it!
Resources & Links:
Previous episode with Mark: The Rural Dispatch
Follow Mark on Facebook
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch, I’m joined Smoke and guest Mark Toms—a man of many talents and endless stories. Mark takes us on a journey through his career, starting with how he got into the trucking industry and the unique challenges of pulling a tanker compared to hauling livestock.
We also dive into his passion for protecting livestock from predators, specifically his experience as an avid coyote hunter. Mark shares his knowledge about keeping livestock safe and why this role is so important for rural communities.
But Mark’s story doesn’t stop at trucking. He also runs a truck and tank wash and has built a side hustle in drywalling that has grown into an impressive business. We chat about how he got his start in this industry, how it’s evolved over the years, and how he juggles it all.
The episode wraps up with a meaningful discussion on work ethic—what it takes to succeed in multiple industries and how grit and determination have been central to Mark’s journey.
Tune in for an inspiring and engaging conversation about rural life, hard work, and making the most out of every opportunity.
Our hat giveaway ends March 31, 2025. Leave a rating and review to be entered for your chance to win!
Resources & Links:
Follow Mark on Facebook
High-Quality Hunting & Outdoor Gear Company – Life is Now Outdoors LLC
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This week on The Rural Dispatch, we’re talking all things trucks, trailers, and the cattle industry with Smoke. From EPA regulations to the closure of the American Foods plant in Yankton, SD, there’s a lot shaking up the trucking & livestock worlds right now. Plus, we’re breaking down which brand is really best when it comes to trucks and livestock trailers. And, if you’re frustrated with the cattle market, you’re not alone. We wrap up with an honest conversation about market challenges.
Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe! If you’ve got thoughts on the cattle market, truck brands, or trailer preferences, send us a message—we’d love to hear them!
Hat Giveaway!
As a thank you for tuning in, I’m giving away a hat to one lucky listener! To enter:
1. Share the podcast on Facebook or Instagram & tag @behrensandco (make sure your post is set to public!).
2. Tag a friend in our giveaway post for an extra entry.
3. Rate & review The Rural Dispatch on Apple Podcasts (be sure to sign your name so we know it’s you!).
Giveaway runs from March 12 - March 31, and the winner will be announced on April 1!
Resources & Links:
EPA Deregulatory Action: EPA Launches Biggest Deregulatory Action in U.S. History | US EPA
American Foods Closure: Cimpl’s Meats in Yankton closes after 76 years
Truck Driver Statistics: Our Mission - Project-61
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch, I sit down with Jeremy Behrens to talk about his journey from hauling livestock with Smoke and their dad, to running his own one-man trucking operation. We dive into what it takes to get started in trucking today, the pros and cons of new technology, and the importance of a driver’s role in the bigger business picture. Jeremy shares his take on FMCSA regulations, ELDs, and the air-mile radius for livestock haulers, plus the insurance hurdles that come with running trucks. We also swap stories about seeing the country from the driver’s seat, the lessons learned on the road, and the so-called “Behrens bad luck.” If you’re thinking about getting into trucking, buying your first truck, or running your own operation, this episode is packed with real-world advice and hard-earned wisdom.
Hat Giveaway!
As a thank you for tuning in, I’m giving away a hat to one lucky listener! To enter:
1. Screenshot your favorite episode and share it in your Instagram or Facebook stories—tag @behrensandco!
2. Tag a friend in our giveaway post for an extra entry.
3. Rate & review The Rural Dispatch on Apple Podcasts (be sure to sign your name so we know it’s you!).
Giveaway runs from March 12 - March 31, and the winner will be announced on April 1!
If you found this episode helpful, I’d love for you to share it with a fellow hauler. Thanks for listening, and I’ll catch you in the next episode!
Resources & Links:
Motive Logbook Information: Motive: All-in-One Fleet Management & Driver Safety Platform
FMCSA Crash Facts: Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts 2021 | FMCSA
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch, I sit down with Smoke and Jeff "Bug" Schroeder, a cattle feeder from western Iowa, to talk about his journey in the industry. We cover everything from feeding in dirt lots and barns to the realities of hedging cattle and what skills every good cattle feeder should have in their back pocket.
Tune in for an honest look at the cattle business, the highs and lows, and what it really takes to make it work.
Resources & Links:
Cattle Management Software | Performance Livestock Analytics
Producers Livestock | Livestock Marketing, Commodities & Credit
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In this episode of The Rural Dispatch: Delivering Stories from Rural America, I sit down with my better half, Smoke, to talk about the journey that shaped him and our family’s trucking business. We start with the story behind his name and his deep-rooted ties to trucking and agriculture.
From its beginnings to where we are today, we break down the evolution of our trucking company, the challenges facing the industry right now, and what it takes to keep things moving—literally. Smoke shares insights into dispatching, customer relationships, and the importance of networking in this business. We also dive into how unpredictable weather plays a huge role in operations and what the future might hold for both farming and trucking.
Whether you’re in the industry or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of rural business, this episode is packed with real talk, lessons learned, and a look ahead.
Tune in now and join us on the road to resilience.
Resources & Links:
Farms and Land in Farms 2024 Summary 02/14/2025
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Welcome to the very first episode of The Rural Dispatch! I’m kicking things off with a solo episode to introduce myself, share my background, and explain how I ended up here—running a livestock trucking business, raising two little boys, and launching this podcast.
In this episode, I talk about:
This podcast is all about sharing real-life experiences, business insights, and hard-earned lessons from the road and the ranch. Whether you’re in agriculture, trucking, or just love a good story, I hope you’ll stick around.
Next episode, Smoke will join me to share his side of the story—don’t miss it!
Resources & Links:
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Facebook | Aly | toddlers • trucks • cattle (@behrensandco) • Instagram photos and videos | TikTok - Make Your Day
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Welcome to The Rural Dispatch, the podcast that delivers honest conversations from the fields, the highways, and the home front.
I'm your host, Aly Behrens - headquartered in rural Iowa, I help run a trucking company that specializes in hauling livestock nationwide.
I was born and raised in small-town-Iowa and I’m passionate about rural communities and the people who help them thrive. Since becoming a mom, I’ve taken a step away from my own career in finance and into a behind the scenes role in our second-generation family business. I’m proud to help continue the legacy of hard work and dedication that built this business. I’m building a life with a multi-faceted business owner who also holds the title of truck driver, cattle feeder and dispatcher, all while we both work together to manage office operations, oversee business development, and bring the next generation along to show them the ropes, just like their grandpa did with their dad.
If you’re anything like us, you wear a lot of hats in your operation. This podcast is for people like you: hardworking men and women in the rural trucking, livestock and business communities who are juggling all the things everyday. Whether it’s running loads, managing a herd, staying compliant, or handling the bookkeeping, we know the challenges you face because we’ve lived them.
In our weekly episodes, I’ll bring you a mix of my own experiences as I navigate the ins and outs of these industries, stories with my better half, Smoke about the lessons we’ve learned throughout our time in this business, and interviews with experts who tackle the pain points we all probably face at one time or another. From trucking to livestock production to rural entrepreneurship, this show is here to equip you with the tools, resources and a supportive community to help you thrive.
Whether you’re in the cab of a truck, out checking cattle, or sitting at your kitchen table, we hope you’ll tune in and find value in conversations that speak your language. No matter your role in the industry, there’s something for everyone here.
Buckle up, friends, there's lots to come. If you enjoy an episode, it would mean the world to us if you would share it with a friend. Keep up with us between episodes on our socials, at Behrens and Co., or subscribe to our email list on our website to receive new episodes directly to your inbox every Wednesday. Thanks for being here. We'll talk soon.
Aly | toddlers • trucks • cattle (@behrensandco) • Instagram photos and videos
Behrens & Co (@behrensandco) | TikTok
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