Estate Planning, Hard Conversations, and the Future of Your Farm

“Imperfect planning is still better than no planning. If you don’t talk about it now, the people you love are going to be in a really hard spot.”  In this episode of Farming on Purpose, I sit down with Jessica Groskopf, a Nebraska Extension Economist and fourth-generation farm wife who has spent over a decade helping families navigate some of the toughest conversations in agriculture: estate planning, farm transition, and preparing the next generation to lead.  Jessica blends her professional expertise with her lived experience farming alongside her husband, giving her a unique and deeply practical perspective on what it actually takes to protect a multigenerational operation. We talk about the difference between estate planning and succession planning, how to start when you feel overwhelmed, the six documents every family should gather before meeting with an attorney, and why honest conversations are the foundation of a strong future.  This episode is a must-listen for every generation on the operation — whether you’re thinking about stepping back or stepping in.    Key Topics:  The difference between estate planning and succession planning    The Great Wealth Transfer and why it impacts agriculture so heavily    Why a will is not enough to protect your farm or ranch    How to start transition planning when family dynamics feel complicated    The six critical items to prepare before meeting advisors    Navigating conflict, resistance, or avoidance in the ownership generation    Preparing financially to buy into or buy out the operation    Why difficult conversations lead to stronger families and stronger operations    How to update your plan every 3–5 years or after major life events    Building a future with intention, communication, and shared vision    You can find Jessica on Instagram at @jessicagroskopf for more resources and tools on farm business management.    LINKS  Sign up for the 8-Hour Marketing Plan here!  Marketing Routine class, do so here!  Join the Farming On Purpose Facebook group and visit the Farming on Purpose merch page.   Check out our favorite software tool for online sales: Thrivecart  I may earn affiliate commissions from links on this page.    Other Episodes You May Enjoy:  Episode 117: Raising Kids, Cows, and Conversations: Paige Dulaney’s Real-Life Look at Ranching, Transition, and Family  Episode 115: Farm Accidents, Family, and Being Ready for the Unthinkable  Episode 120: Finding Where You Belong on the Farm or Ranch   About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright:  I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture.    Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

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