As record-breaking inflation continues to make headlines, few consumers or industries aren’t feeling the impact of higher prices and interest rates. But even during times of incredible market volatility, producers can mitigate their risk and create staying power for the future.

In this episode, Editor Carrie Veselka discusses budgeting tips and financial habits for the new year with DeDe Jones from Texas A&M University. Also, Carrie, David Cooper, Cassidy Woolsey, and Paul and Tyrell Marchant preview the December issue of Progressive Cattle and duke out the best and worst Christmas songs of all time.

The old adage of farming being a “way of life” no longer rings completely true. Farming is very much a business these days, much like any manufacturing or service industry in town.

Even the smallest dairy operations can show assets in excess of $1 million, as milk quota, in many cases with this size of unit, is the main contributor to the farm balance sheet.