Detailed Summary of Therapy Gecko Podcast Episode: “I’M A FARMER”
Released on June 18, 2025 by iHeartPodcasts
In the episode titled “I’M A FARMER” from Therapy Gecko, host Lyle engages in an in-depth and personable conversation with Weston, a fifth-generation farmer balancing his agricultural responsibilities with his studies in mechanical engineering. This episode provides listeners with a rich glimpse into the life of modern farming, familial legacies, and the unique challenges faced by those who choose to continue their ancestral trades.
Introduction and Caller Connection (02:09 - 02:34)
The episode begins with Lyle greeting Weston, who introduces himself and begins sharing a recent mishap on the farm.
Weston:
“Well, I live on a farm and I was just spraying the field and then I ran over a log that was hidden in the weeds and it went through my tire.” (02:21)
Farming Background and Legacy (03:00 - 04:33)
Weston delves into his family's long-standing farming heritage, highlighting the transformation of their land from forested areas to productive farmland.
Weston:
“I'm a fifth generational farmer.” (03:11)
He explains how his grandparents moved to the current location, clearing trees to establish farming operations.
Cultivating Cotton: Processes and Market (04:33 - 05:50)
Weston provides a detailed overview of cotton farming, from planting to harvesting and processing.
Weston:
“We grow cotton. We have about 10 tractors and then two big cotton harvesters... trucks will come and pick it up and take it to what they call it a gin.” (04:33)
Lyle questions the modern demand for cotton, to which Weston admits limited consumer knowledge but emphasizes the crop's profitability in their dry climate.
Weston:
“Out here it's really dry. It's like a desert. So cotton is actually the most profitable crop we can grow.” (05:28)
Economic Dynamics of Farming (15:13 - 16:00)
The conversation shifts to the financial aspects of farming, where Weston explains the substantial revenues and high expenses involved in cotton farming.
Weston:
“If an average person makes a hundred thousand dollars a year, but if they're farming, you would make like maybe $3 million a year, but you would have $2.9 million in expenses.” (15:13)
Lyle expresses concern over the narrow profit margins, prompting Weston to discuss the inherent risks and protective measures like crop insurance.
Anecdotes and Farm Life (07:01 - 10:44)
Weston shares entertaining stories from his farm life, including his and his friends' experiments with tannerite to create explosive displays.
Weston:
“We stack a bunch of fridges, old fridges on each other and put like, 40 pounds of this stuff under there... and it just blows up into a mushroom cloud.” (07:30)
He also discusses his laid-back relationship with local law enforcement, allowing him to engage in reckless driving without repercussions.
Weston:
“When are you gonna catch me? I'm waiting for it.” (10:01)
Balancing Education and Farming (17:03 - 18:48)
Weston talks about his current role as a farm manager on a friend's ranch while pursuing a mechanical engineering degree. He describes the cultural shift from a small high school to a large college environment.
Weston:
“I just got through my freshman year of college and that first semester was very difficult for me because... it was like not the type of school I was used to.” (17:44 - 18:13)
He highlights his ability to make friends through shared interests like sports and religion, mitigating the initial isolation.
Community and Relationships (36:06 - 43:37)
Weston emphasizes the importance of family and community, describing his close-knit relationships with cousins and grandparents. He shares stories that illustrate the strong support system that underpins his life.
Weston:
“I've been told by a bunch of my dad's college friends that he's the best guy you could ever have as a dad.” (36:06)
He also discusses his aspirations to return to farm life post-graduation, valuing hands-on work over sedentary careers.
Interactions with Wildlife and Safety (28:00 - 31:07)
Weston recounts encounters with wildlife on the farm, including handling rattlesnakes and wild dogs, demonstrating his resilience and familiarity with farm life hazards.
Weston:
“I've killed, like, a rabbit and ate it. A rattlesnake... it's like eating any other food.” (54:08)
He shares his conflicting feelings about heights, enjoying the physical act of climbing but fearing the height itself.
Future Aspirations and Crop Diversification (24:21 - 25:04)
When prompted about alternative crops, Weston expresses interest in growing alfalfa or corn, citing corn's robustness and versatility.
Weston:
“Either alfalfa or corn. That would be my answer because corn is super tall... you just grow.” (24:29 - 25:04)
He contrasts sweet corn with field corn, explaining their different uses and growth patterns.
Closing Remarks and Reflections (58:35 - 58:51)
Towards the end of the conversation, Lyle conveys heartfelt sentiments, wishing Weston well and expressing admiration for his character and lifestyle.
Lyle:
“Weston, you're a blessed man. You have a close family. You have a strong idea of what you want to do with your life.” (42:22)
Weston:
“I love living my life, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.” (58:46)
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Weston:
“I'm a fifth generational farmer.” (03:11)
- Weston:
“Cotton is actually the most profitable crop we can grow.” (05:28)
- Weston:
“We almost have a privilege... I'm super close to my grandparents.” (09:00)
- Lyle:
“Weston, you're a blessed man. You have a close family. You have a strong idea of what you want to do with your life.” (42:22)
- Weston:
“I love living my life, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.” (58:46)
Conclusion
The “I’M A FARMER” episode of Therapy Gecko offers a heartfelt and informative look into the life of a dedicated farmer balancing tradition with modern aspirations. Through Weston's engaging storytelling and candid reflections, listeners gain valuable insights into the complexities of farming, the importance of family, and the pursuit of personal and professional goals amidst challenging circumstances.
Note: Advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections from the transcript have been excluded to focus solely on the meaningful interactions and discussions.