Patio Ponderings

Episode 24: A Conversation with Corey Hillebo: Growing Up Farming, Taking Chances, and Saying Yes

Jim Smith, Ph.D. Episode 24

Send us a text

In this episode of Patio Pondering, we sit down with Corey Hillebo, a fourth-generation farmer from Iowa and co-host of some of the most engaging conversations in agriculture on the Farm4Profit and Farm4Fun podcasts.

We dive into Corey’s ag roots, the turning point in his teenage years when he knew he wanted to farm, and how his FFA experience shaped his mindset—teaching him to embrace new opportunities and always be open to saying YES to what comes next. We also explore how Corey’s leap into pig farming set the stage for his growth, not just as a producer but as a podcaster who brings real, unfiltered conversations to the ag community.

Along the way, we tap into our shared friendships with Mike Pearson, Snarkosaurus, and Millennial Farmer, blending fresh perspectives, humor, and candid discussions on the challenges and opportunities in modern agriculture.

Expect insights into:
✅ The moment Corey knew farming was his future
✅ How FFA molded his mindset for taking risks
✅ What drove him to jump into pig farming and how that experience changed him
✅ The evolution of farm podcasting and why storytelling matters in agriculture
✅ What makes a great ag communicator today

If you love agriculture, enjoy real talk, and want to hear how a lifelong passion turns into new opportunities, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

People on this episode