Farm Forward

Graham Neil is a dynamic communicator and award-winning host and reporter for CTV Edmonton. Known for his engaging interviews with top global entertainers, he was named Edmonton’s Man of the Year for his contributions to media and the community. Beyond broadcasting, Graham is also a stand-up comedian and producer of national storytelling concerts celebrating icons like Johnny Cash.

What You Will Learn: Practical steps to build resilience during farming life's most stressful moments. The highs and lows of farming can bring immense stress, testing even the strongest among us. As farmers, we’re adept at recognizing stress in livestock, crops, and equipment. But how often do we pause to acknowledge the toll stress takes on us and how we can build strength to thrive through it?

What You Will Learn: How to navigate financial challenges within the unpredictability of farming, or the unexpected challenges that marriage, divorce and family dynamics can have on financial planning within farm families. You will also learn how to achieve security and peace of mind through sound financial decisions. Debt Management. Wealth Planning.

What You Will Learn: How to access tools to support your success -> The Canadian Cattle Young Leaders program offers mentorship, travel experiences, training and resources to empower young beef producers. The Canadian CYL Program acts as an industry succession planning tool to equip the next generation of leaders with the skills and tools they need to continue to drive the growth and profitability of their operations and the Canadian beef industry.

What You Will Learn: It is not easy to work in a world most people do not understand – but there are effective ways to address that lack of understanding and to create trust. The key to public trust isn’t knowledge transfer, but rather a personal connection to the people that grow our food? Hear how developing relationships with consumers can build trust in agriculture and benefit producer mindset.

Ever feel like the cows, crops, kids, and your calendar are all competing for your attention? Let’s turn chaos into clarity. In this session, you’ll learn how to build a to-do list that works for you, not against you. Discover practical strategies for resilience and explore ways to bring calm to a life where “balance” might be more myth than reality.

What You’ll Learn: When livestock emergencies strike, quick and informed action can make all the difference. Robyn will introduce you to how Animal HealthLink works around the clock with veterinary clinics to support producers, farmers, and livestock owners during critical moments. You’ll gain practical insights and actionable tips for managing animal health emergencies with confidence and care.

What You’ll Learn: Virtual fencing is transforming livestock management. In this session, you’ll discover how this innovative technology can reduce labor costs, increase grazing flexibility, and improve both animal welfare and environmental outcomes. Learn how remote control of grazing boundaries enables efficient rotational grazing and helps protect sensitive areas, giving ranchers more control, more insight, and more peace of mind.

What You Will Learn: When it comes to farming, soil is far more than “just dirt”—it’s the foundation of a successful operation. Michael will explain the ecological principles behind healthy soil and share real-world examples of how it can transform pastures and crops. Discover the measurable benefits of working in harmony with nature, rather than battling against it.

Dr. Roy Lewis has over 35 years experience to inform his answers to your large animal questions. Come with your questions around bovine fertility in both bulls and cows, animal welfare issues, and preventative medicine. Ask about parasite control in beef cattle, spotting distress or pain and which conditions can likely be treated on site.

Aidan will offer his thoughts on agriculture-related matters including wills, estates and trusts, and litigation. Feel free to ask questions relating to success-planning and navigating intergenerational transfer of farm or ranch properties. He is happy to discuss safeguarding your life’s work on the farm, structure a business or manage a dispute.

Jillian is happy to answer questions about building and protecting financial wealth, including insurance planning so that nothing derails your financial future on the farm. She can address questions about paying off debt while paying as little interest as possible, and can provide insight into forecasting and maximizing your future financial goals.