In this episode, I sit down with Shannon Douglass, the first female President of the California Farm Bureau. Shannon shares insights into her non-traditional farming background and the inclusive, grassroots nature of the Farm Bureau, where policies are driven by local county boards. She outlines her key advocacy focuses, including the farm bill, mill assessment increases, water issues, and the insurance crisis affecting farmers. She explains the ongoing legislative efforts to address insurance challenges and improve availability and affordability through better forest management. During our discussion, we emphasize the disconnect between California's support for local, small farmers and the regulatory environment, emphasizing that these challenges push smaller farms out of business. Shannon also highlights how well-intentioned regulations can have unintended negative consequences, such as the significant investments and logistical adjustments required for switching to electric forklifts. Despite these challenges, her passion for agriculture advocacy is driven by a desire to ensure future generations can continue farming in California. Shannon views tough times as opportunities for innovation and improvement, sharing how difficult periods force farmers to make decisions that ultimately lead to better practices. Join us as we delve into the world of agriculture regulations and how to remain optimistic for the future.