National Farm Viability Conference: Full Schedule

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1:30pm MDT

Supporting Farmers Through Stress and Change: Practical Relational Tools for Advisors

Tuesday September 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm MDT

This workshop explores the role of business and technical assistance providers not only as advisors and problem solvers, but also as sources of grounding, connection, and community for farmers navigating stress and uncertainty. Designed as a peer to peer learning experience, the session equips advisors with practical relational skills to support farmers during difficult moments. We will draw from the field of interpersonal neurobiology to understand how stress affects communication. Participants will learn how the left hemisphere drives task oriented thinking, while the right hemisphere supports relational presence. High stakes situations often push both farmers and advisors into left brain functioning, reducing our ability to connect. By understanding basic brain science, advisors can intentionally shift into language and behaviors that activate the relational circuitry associated with warmth, curiosity, and emotional attunement—helping farmers feel accompanied rather than alone. Participants will learn: • How different types of language activate different neural networks • Why some conversations soothe while others strain • How to shift from task oriented mindset into relational presence • How to use these skills to create safety, resonance, and connection during stressful conversations We will practice applying these tools to scenarios involving farmer stress, change, fear, and loss. Participants will leave with new perspectives on working with stress and concrete skills they can use immediately in the field.

Speakers

Claudia Kenny

Agricultural Farm Land Access and Transfer Senior Specialist, American Farmland Trust

Claudia Kenny brings the skills of a conflict specialist, the grounded experience of a long time farmer, and a deep commitment to a just, community rooted food system to her work with the Farms for a New Generation team at American Farmland Trust. As part of a first generation farm... Read More →

Tuesday September 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm MDT
Alvarado G

Other

National Farm Viability Conference

From $475.00

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National Farm Viability Conference

1:30pm MDT

Claudia Kenny

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