“ I sometimes pinch myself. It's hard. Ranching isn't easy. It's not easy and I don't want to give that impression, but to get to do what you love so much and are so passionate about it…” 
Laura Hicks started ranching at 19, building from nothing alongside her husband Mike in South Dakota. They went from running others' cattle to developing their own herd while raising two sons who now ranch with them. Through health battles, tough seasons, and the challenges of passing down the operation, Laura's story shows how faith, grit, and family can build something lasting. Her journey from a two-room house with no running water to a successful multi-generational ranch proves that success comes in many forms. 
Key Topics: 
Starting from scratch at age 19 and building a ranch with no initial land or cattle 
Raising kids while ranching - managing safety and developing work ethic 
Herd development through replacement heifers and improving cattle temperament 
Multi-generational transition - bringing sons into the operation 
Diversification through sheep operation  
Managing health challenges as a ranch family  
Balancing ranch life with other pursuits (writing books, dog trials) 
Homeschooling while ranching 
Role of faith and community in ranch success 
To connect with Laura and learn more about her story, visit her website or find her on Instagram and Facebook. 
LINKS 
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Other Episodes You May Enjoy: 
 
Episode 68: Getting Started with Stockdogs  
 
Episode 54: Growing a Heritage Sheep Operation in California 
 
Episode 34: Irons in the Fire with Ranch Mom Jesse Thompson 
 
About the Host of Farming On Purpose, Lexi Wright: 
 
I’m your host, Lexi Wright. I started the Farming on Purpose Podcast from a passion for sharing the future of production agriculture. 
 
Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.  

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