The Jacob Shapiro Podcast Land, Debt, and Decline
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Jan 26, 2026 Dr. David Kohl, agricultural economist and educator with decades advising farmers and agribusiness, joins to explore farmland, debt, and rural change. He discusses falling row-crop profits, institutional land buyers, and generational farm transitions. They examine export dependence versus domestic markets, tech and robotics easing labor strains, and the macro risks reshaping rural America.
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Crop Downturn Vs. Livestock Resilience
- Crop (row-crop) farming faces a long-term downturn driven by global competition and tariffs.
- Livestock and diversified operations show more resilience and better cash flow in 2026.
Pursue Multiple Revenue Streams
- Diversify revenue streams: three to six income sources is the 'sweet spot' for resilience.
- Young farmers should pursue outside gigs to network, stabilize income, and spark new ideas.
Rising Land Prices, Falling Profitability
- Farm profitability is weak while land values keep rising, creating emotional and financial strain.
- Institutional buyers and aging owners selling or fragmenting farms intensify consolidation pressures.