In this episode of Modern Farming, we sit down with Steve Johnson — fourth-generation citrus grower, cattle rancher, and Vice President of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation — for a candid look at the challenges and opportunities facing Florida agriculture today.

Based in Hardee County, Steve operates multiple family businesses including Johnson Harvesting, Treeair Cattle Co., Johnson Groves and Farms, and Sabel Logistics. From managing labor and H-2A programs to navigating the evolving citrus market and labor challenges, Steve shares how his family continues to adapt while preserving their deep agricultural roots.

We also talk about cow/calf operations, the rising costs of production, and how Farm Bureau plays a vital role in supporting Florida’s farmers and ranchers. Off the farm, Steve shares stories about faith, family, and finding balance — often on the water, fishing in his downtime.

Tune in for a grounded, heartfelt conversation about leadership, legacy, and what it takes to keep Florida farming strong for the next generation.

Kevin Lussier is a 5th-generation dairy farmer, cheesemaker, and advocate for the next generation of agriculture. Kevin and his wife, Shelby, own Hawthorne Creek Creamery and Lussier Farms LLC in Hawthorne, Florida, where they raise their three boys and produce farm-fresh, small-batch cheeses. A former Chair of the American Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee and current Vice President of Alachua County Farm Bureau, Kevin is passionate about connecting consumers to where their food comes from and empowering young farmers to find their voice in today’s agricultural landscape.

In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Lussier to talk about life on a modern dairy farm and the art—and science—of cheesemaking. Kevin shares his journey from growing up on the family farm to returning after college in 2016 and launching his own creamery in 2020. We explore what it takes to balance herd health, crop management, and business ownership while maintaining the highest standards of quality and care for both animals and customers.

Highlights

- Farming Legacy – Kevin’s roots in a multi-generation dairy family and what drew him back to farming after college.

- From Milk to Market – How he and Shelby started Hawthorne Creek Creamery in 2020, transforming their farm’s milk into locally made artisan cheeses.

- A Day on the Farm – Managing forage crops, herd health, and cheesemaking—all while raising a young family and running two businesses.

- Science Meets Skill – Working with a nutritionist to craft the perfect diet for the herd, ensuring milk with the right balance of butterfat and protein for cheese production.

- Cheesemaking 101 – What happens inside the 400-gallon vat, and how careful timing and technique turn milk into something magical.

- Advocacy in Action – Kevin’s leadership with Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee, helping young producers navigate challenges, build networks, and strengthen their voice in agricultural policy.

- Connecting Consumers & Producers – Why telling the story of modern farming is key

Kevin brings authenticity, experience, and heart to the conversation—sharing what it takes to run a modern farm, lead with purpose, and advocate for agriculture’s next generation. Whether you’re in the field, the classroom, or the kitchen, this episode will leave you inspired and informed about where your food really comes from.

In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Williamson, a remarkable guest whose life and legacy are deeply tied to Florida agriculture. A 6th-generation strawberry grower from Hillsborough County, she has spent her career balancing farm life with leadership in Farm Bureau, agricultural policy, and youth education. From serving on local, state, and national committees to mentoring students in 4-H, her story is one of passion, perseverance, and dedication to advocating for farmers. Join us as she shares insights on strawberry farming, water management, and the vital role of agricultural literacy in shaping the future.

Topics We’ll Cover:

-Life as a 6th-generation strawberry grower in Florida.

-Farm Bureau leadership and advocacy work.

-The importance of water management and conservation.

-Agricultural education through 4-H and community programs.

-The challenges and rewards of farming today.

-What the future of Florida fruit and vegetable growers looks like.

Join us as we celebrate Michelle Williamson’s remarkable journey in agriculture, leadership, and advocacy—a story of roots, resilience, and a passion for educating the next generation about where our food comes from.