Farming Without the Bank Podcast

Welcome to the Farming Without the Bank podcast, the show with a no-B.S. approach to money, hosted by a farm strategy expert and authorized IBC practitioner. Join us as we get real and expose the flaws of traditional financial institutions in order to help farmers take control of their finances, create peace of mind, grow their wealth, and leave a legacy. https://www.farmingwithoutthebank.com/

The Truth About Policy Loans, Dividends, & Inflation (Ep. 328) 11/14/2025

The Truth About Policy Loans, Dividends, & Inflation (Ep. 328) Most people think policy loans mean “borrowing your own money.” That’s completely wrong, and it’s costing them big. In this episode, Mary Jo breaks down exactly how policy loans work inside Infinite Banking and why understanding the difference can change how you build wealth. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: In this deep dive, Mary Jo explains why you’re borrowing the life insurance company’s money, not your own, when using policy loans, and how that lets your cash value keep earning uninterrupted compound interest and dividends. She also addresses common misconceptions some accountants have, what’s actually deductible, and why using this strategy helps reduce inflation by keeping dollars out of the fractional-reserve banking system. If you’ve ever wondered whether you “pay to borrow your own money,” this episode clears it up once and for all. 🧭 Key Takeaways: ◦ You’re borrowing against your policy, not from it. ◦ The interest goes to the insurance company, not back into your policy. ◦ You still earn compound interest + dividends while using that money. ◦ Accountants often misunderstand how policy loans and deductions work. ◦ Using Infinite Banking helps you leverage dollars and avoid inflating the currency. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & Today’s Topic 02:30 – The Big Infinite Banking Misconception 05:10 – Borrowing the Insurance Company’s Money 08:30 – Accountants, Interest, and Tax Deductions 13:00 – How This Strategy Fights Inflation 16:30 – Uninterrupted Compound Interest in Action 19:00 – Why Understanding Leverage Matters 20:00 – Harvest Sale + Final Thoughts (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) 👍 Like this episode if it cleared up a myth about policy loans 💬 Comment your biggest “aha!” moment below 📲 Subscribe for more Infinite Banking education and strategies 📚 Mentioned Links: 📘 Grab your book and check out the Harvest Sale: 📧 Contact Mary Jo with your questions: maryjo@withoutthebank.com /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/39024650

Kyle Busch Lost $8.5M... But It's Not What You Think (Ep. 327) 11/07/2025

Kyle Busch Lost $8.5M... But It's Not What You Think (Ep. 327) Kyle Busch just sued Pacific Life Insurance for $8.58 million, claiming he was misled by an Indexed Universal Life (IUL) policy. But what if this high-profile case proves everything Infinite Banking practitioners have warned about for years? 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: In this episode of Without the Bank, Mary Jo breaks down the Kyle Busch life insurance lawsuit, exposing how IULs are often mis-sold and why dividend-paying whole life insurance is still the gold standard for Infinite Banking. She dives into: ◦ Why IULs, VULs, and ULs collapse faster than you think ◦ The truth behind “guaranteed” returns and hidden policy fees ◦ What Nelson Nash really meant by “dividend-paying whole life” ◦ How to read your own in-force illustration and spot red flags If you own an Indexed Universal Life policy, or are thinking of buying one, this episode could save you thousands. Audio Podcast Episodes Farming Without The Bank Ep. 327a Without The Bank Ep. 242a Key Takeaways ◦ Kyle Busch’s lawsuit highlights systemic problems in how IULs are sold. ◦ Whole life and IUL are not the same thing. ◦ Infinite Banking only works with dividend-paying whole life, not market-tied policies. ◦ Always request an in-force illustration at 4% to test your policy’s strength. ◦ Education beats marketing. Understand what you’re buying before you sign. Chapters 00:00 – The Problem with Bad Insurance Sales 01:21 – Kyle Busch’s $8.5M IUL Lawsuit Explained 03:34 – IUL vs Whole Life: What Agents Don’t Tell You 06:03 – Hidden Fees, Failing Policies, and False Promises 08:26 – Why This Case Proves Infinite Banking Works 12:19 – The Real Lesson from Becoming Your Own Banker 17:16 – How to Check (and Fix) Your Own Life Insurance (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) 👉 Have an IUL or UL policy? Send your in-force illustration to Mary Jo for a review. Email: maryjo@withoutthebank.com 👉 Subscribe for more episodes breaking down Infinite Banking truths and exposing insurance myths. 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you believe in consumer protection and financial education! 🔗 Links Mentioned 📘 Books: 👩‍💼 Work with Mary Jo: /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38931875

Bitcoin vs. Infinite Banking: Why I Still Choose Gold & Silver (Ep. 326) 10/31/2025

Bitcoin vs. Infinite Banking: Why I Still Choose Gold & Silver (Ep. 326) Bitcoin fans say it’s the future. I say: show me how it actually solves real-world money problems. In this episode, I walk through the biggest unanswered questions I still have about Bitcoin: volatility, inheritance keys, “who’s in charge,” government visibility, and why I still prefer AND assets like dividend-paying whole life over OR assets like BTC. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: Prompted by a listener (thanks, Todd!), I listened to a Bitcoin proponent debate and wrote down the sticking points I can’t get past. If Bitcoin is limited, why do explanations sound inflationary? If it’s infinitely divisible, how is that different from a devalued currency? If most people don’t even understand the dollar, how do we get mass adoption of a new money system? How do I plan a purchase in 5 years with that level of volatility? What about lost keys and inheritance? And if the government can track blockchain activity and tax capital gains, how does this “stop tyranny”? I compare Bitcoin to gold/silver and outline why I prefer cash-flowing, contractually guaranteed strategies—especially Infinite Banking. Key Takeaways: ◦ Value = belief. If 97% don’t understand money now, mass BTC adoption is a stretch. ◦ Volatility breaks planning. It’s hard to budget for real purchases with wide swings. ◦ Bitcoin behaves like an OR asset; I prefer AND assets that can grow while being used. ◦ Inheritance risk is real: lose the key, lose the asset. ◦ Government visibility & taxes exist—so “off grid” claims don’t really hold. ◦ Cross-border payments are a useful perk—but fees and frictions can creep in over time. ◦ Insurance companies and banks avoid BTC due to volatility and lack of cash flow. Chapters: 00:00 Cold open: “Who’s running Bitcoin?” creator, mining & control 01:01 Shoutout to Todd & why this episode exists 02:58 Can BTC be a supplementary medium of exchange? 03:27 Ground rules: why I’m open—but unconvinced 04:39 “Limited” yet “inflationary”? Divisibility vs. value 05:31 Nelson Nash lens: “If dollars are worthless, why trade BTC for them?” 07:16 Value = belief; most people don’t understand money 10:06 Volatility vs. planning for real purchases 12:57 Invest in what you know; AND asset vs. OR asset 14:00 Lost keys & inheritance problems 14:58 Will BTC stop tyranny? IBC, voting & policy matter more 16:06 Govt tracking, capital gains & “digital money” already here 17:21 Why insurers/banks avoid BTC (volatility, no cash flow) 18:50 Who’s in charge? Mining, outages & resilience 20:10 The one valid perk: cross-border transfers (for now) 20:59 Trust, fees & centralization concerns 21:27 Dollar strength, crash talk & practical money use 23:04 Crypto dilution: too many coins, weaker adoption 24:19 “Explain it like I’m five”—if it’s too complex, that’s a risk 25:12 CTA: Want guarantees and an AND asset? Start with IBC (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) → Want a strategy you can plan around? Start your Infinite Banking journey today. → Grab the Farming Without the Bank book and schedule your appointment to get set up. → Comment with your best Bitcoin arguments—especially on planning, inheritance, and governance. • Farming Without the Bank book & consult: • Podcast home page: /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38816145

The Truth About Infinite Banking: What Haters Get Wrong (Ep. 325) 10/24/2025

The Truth About Infinite Banking: What Haters Get Wrong (Ep. 325) Why do so many people say, "Whole life insurance never works"? Let's unpack that. In this episode, Mary Jo takes on online critics who claim infinite banking doesn't work and reveals why most people making these comments haven't even done their homework. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: Mary Jo shares personal stories, lessons from Nelson Nash, and her own journey from being labeled "learning disabled" to becoming a teacher who helps thousands understand money in a different way. If you've ever wondered whether the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) really helps people make financial progress, this episode will open your eyes. 🎯 Key Takeaways: ◦ Why people misunderstand Infinite Banking and Whole Life Insurance ◦ How assumptions and “keyboard warriors” cloud financial discussions ◦ The role of human nature and mindset in financial success ◦ Lessons from Nelson Nash about honesty, discipline, and being your own banker ◦ How critical thinking and open-minded learning lead to real wealth ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & New Studio 02:10 – Reading & Responding to Online Comments 05:30 – “Whole Life Insurance Never Helps” – Debunking the Myth 09:00 – The Learning Disabled Label & Becoming a Teacher 14:20 – Why People Don’t Understand Infinite Banking 18:45 – Human Nature & Why Policies Fail 24:00 – Judging Others’ Finances Without Knowing Their Numbers 30:10 – Regenerative Agriculture & Financial Parallels 35:50 – Keeping Your Eye on Your Own Bobber 41:00 – Keyboard Warriors & Online Hate 47:00 – Why We Don’t Talk About Money (and Why We Should) 52:00 – Being Open-Minded About Finance (and Bitcoin) 57:30 – Final Thoughts & Call to Action (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) 📅 Read the book? Schedule your appointment with Mary Jo or John today at maryjo@withoutthebank.com 💬 Have a podcast topic idea? Drop it in the comments below! 👍 Like this episode if you learned something new, and subscribe for more no-nonsense financial education. 📘 Links Mentioned: 💡 Get the book: 🌾 Canada version: 🎓 Learn from Nelson Nash: /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38760810

$100K in Cattle at 20: The Move Dave Ramsey Hated (Ep. 324) 10/17/2025

$100K in Cattle at 20: The Move Dave Ramsey Hated (Ep. 324) When Dave Ramsey told a 20-year-old rancher he made a “huge mistake” buying $100,000 in cattle, we had some thoughts. Spoiler: Dave doesn’t understand agriculture, leverage, or infinite banking. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: In this fiery episode #324 of Farming Without the Bank, Mary Jo Irmen and John dive deep into a recent Dave Ramsey clip that went viral — a 20-year-old caller buys $100K in cattle, and Dave loses it. Mary Jo and John break down why the young man’s decision wasn’t reckless at all; it was smart business. They explain how proper use of leverage, cash flow, and infinite banking can make or break a farm or ranch operation. If you’ve ever been told “debt is evil” or “cash only is the way,” this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew about farm finance. 💡 Key Takeaways: ◦ Why Dave Ramsey’s blanket financial advice doesn’t work for farmers or ranchers ◦ The truth about using leverage in agriculture ◦ How infinite banking can replace CDs and traditional loans ◦ Why business owners must understand cash flow, not just “debt-free living” ◦ How to use banks strategically — not avoid them completely ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – The problem with Dave Ramsey’s cattle advice 03:00 – Why college debt ≠ business investment 06:00 – The $100K cattle example explained 10:00 – Infinite Banking vs. CDs 14:00 – Understanding cash-flowing assets in agriculture 20:00 – The myth of “no debt ever” 24:00 – When to use bank leverage smartly 27:00 – Real-life client success stories 32:00 – Final thoughts: what farmers should really do (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) 💬 Have questions about infinite banking for your farm or ranch? Email Mary Jo: maryjo@withoutthebank.com Links Mentioned: 📘 Grab the Farming Without the Bank book and start building your own financial system today. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38612950

Banks Are Quietly Changing the Rules — Are You Ready? (Ep. 323) 10/10/2025

Banks Are Quietly Changing the Rules — Are You Ready? (Ep. 323) Banks are already tightening up on ag lending, and that’s your red alarm. This creates instability as banks pull out of lending due to perceived high risk. Farming Without the Bank – Book & resources: Understanding sound farm management and agricultural finance is now more important than ever to mitigate risk management. Let's navigate the ag lending landscape together. Mary Jo breaks down when (and if) you should use the minimum premium option on policies with Paid-Up Additions (PUA) and why, in most cases, paying the full premium and then borrowing against cash value is the smarter play, especially when banks are pulling back, collateral requirements are rising, and commodity prices are shaky. If you’ve been tempted to “just pay the minimum” on your whole life premium, this episode explains why that move can quietly cost you years of growth. She shares a personal $2,000 short-pay mistake that still drags on her policy 16 years later, and revisits Nelson Nash’s strategy during 23% interest rates: premium in, borrow, pay notes down, and migrate debt to the policy over time. Key Takeaways: ∘Full premium today = more dividends + faster compounding tomorrow ∘Minimum premium “flexibility” is for worst-case cashflow crunches, not a habit ∘Policy loans can make tractor/land/operating payments while keeping your policy compounding ∘Banks pulling back = expect harder renewals + more collateral requirements ∘Consider how (or whether) to list cash value on bank forms—educate your banker ∘Nelson Nash moved high-interest bank debt to his policy over ~13 years, start where you are 📘 Read Nelson Nash’s Becoming Your Own Banker and Mary Jo’s Farming Without the Bank 🗓️ Clients: Email to get on Mary Jo or John’s calendar for a strategy session ✉️ Quick question? Email us and request a call-back ✅ Before you cut premiums, talk it through, don’t starve your compounding Links Mentioned: Becoming Your Own Banker – Nelson Nash (official resource): Farming Without the Bank – Book & resources: /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38518260

Ep. 322 - Why Liquidity Beats Paying Off Debt 10/03/2025

Ep. 322 - Why Liquidity Beats Paying Off Debt Cattle checks look big with the current cattle prices, so why are so many farmers and ranchers still getting squeezed by the bank with farm loans? Because paying everything off kills your liquidity and hands control back to the lender. Let’s fix that. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: Here's a look into the complexities of farm finance and why banks often limit farmers to three years of operating debt. Understanding debt management is critical for farmers navigating the current agricultural finance landscape. This video offers insights for farmers seeking to improve their farm management practices. In this episode, Mary Jo breaks down how to utilize money (not just spend or “pay it off”) so you keep control through tough years. We walk through real-world ranch scenarios: a $100k calf check, 9% side-by-side loans, operating at 9%, banks dragging their feet on bull purchases, and the hard line many banks draw after three years of termed-out operating. You’ll learn why keeping cash liquid can beat extra principal payments, when fixed rates make sense, and how “one pool of money” thinking (including infinite banking) helps you plan for 3–4 lean years without hitting the panic button. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Liquidity outweighs extra principal: don’t pay off notes if it forces you back to a 9% operating line. “One pool of money” mindset: location of dollars matters less than control of dollars. Operating notes often carry the highest rate and the tightest terms—prioritize flexibility. Many banks tolerate only about 3 years of termed-out operating before pushing hard measures. Consider fixed-rate land notes for peace of mind; you can always refinance if rates drop. If ROI is more than the loan rate (e.g., competent sell-buy cattle marketing at 25–35%), keep the debt and deploy cash. Plan in 3–4 year cycles; align payments, operating needs, and cash-in from calf sales. Chapters: 00:00 The 3-year “term-out” cliff on operating notes 01:01 Welcome + today’s topic: how to utilize money 01:38 Cash flow obsession (for good reason) 01:51 Cattle guys have cash, now what? 02:23 The urge to pay everything off (and why it backfires) 03:53 Banker delays & why liquidity beats permission 04:32 Rates at 6–9%: what to actually pay 05:11 The $100k calf check example (don’t give it all to the bank) 06:05 Keep cash for operating; borrow less later 07:11 9% side-by-side vs 9% LOC: same rate, different control 08:08 “One pool of money,” explained 09:26 Operating on cash vs buying land—hidden 9% cost 10:19 Think in 4–5 year plans, not one-off payments 11:09 Operating notes = highest strain + annual payoff pressure 11:31 Most banks won’t term out operating beyond ~3 years 12:37 Year three decision point: quit or keep going? 13:05 What to pay (and what not to overpay) 14:00 ROI greater than 9%? Then don’t rush to pay off 14:53 Fixed vs variable: lock it in and sleep at night 16:28 Lessons learned: moving from variable to fixed 17:01 Infinite banking = using money correctly 17:32 “I found your premium”: funding policies by re-routing cash 18:09 How to work with me + next steps (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) 👉 Grab the book, then schedule your strategy session to map your 3–4 year liquidity plan and stop letting the bank run your ranch. Book: Read the book, then schedule a call: Email Mary Jo: #FarmFinance #Ranching #OperatingLoan #CashFlow #AgBanking #CattleMarketing #InfiniteBanking #FixedRate #Refinance #WorkingCapital #FarmBusiness #RanchBusiness #AgEconomy #DebtStrategy #SellBuyMarketing /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38456240

Ep. 321 - Why You Need More Than One Policy 09/26/2025

Ep. 321 - Why You Need More Than One Policy 💡 Why would anyone need more than one life insurance policy? Having multiple life insurance policies can provide more premiums, earning compound interest and dividends, which in turn lead to greater death benefits. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: This insurance strategy enhances financial security and builds generational wealth. Effective financial planning utilizes such strategies for long-term wealth building. In this episode of the Farming Without the Bank Podcast, Mary Jo dives into the real reasons behind starting multiple policies and why it’s not just a nice-to-have, but often necessary for building wealth and avoiding tax traps. Drawing on lessons from Nelson Nash and her own experience, she explains how multiple policies protect against MEC limits, expand your cash value growth, and help create true generational wealth. If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I need more than one policy?” this episode is for you. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why multiple policies are essential for long-term wealth building The role of MECs (Modified Endowment Contracts) and how to avoid them How to think about extra interest and premium payments The pros and cons of managing multiple policies When to start another policy (and when to wait) ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Why multiple policies matter 01:15 – Nelson Nash’s 49 policies 02:59 – MEC rules and the 7-pay test 05:18 – Extra interest vs. loan repayment 07:36 – Benefits of having multiple policies 09:09 – Managing premiums and multiple loans 11:28 – The danger of staying with only one policy 13:29 – Redirecting paid-off debt into new policies 15:26 – Planning for income fluctuations (like cattle markets) 16:40 – Closing thoughts & listener questions (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) 📘 Resources & Links 🌱 Get the book: 👉 Read The Book... 📅 Schedule your appointment: 👉 If this episode helped you rethink your financial strategy, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this podcast. Drop your questions in the comments. I may cover them in a future episode! #InfiniteBanking #LifeInsurance #GenerationalWealth #FarmingWithoutTheBank #FinancialFreedom #IBC #wholelifeinsurance /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38358810

Ep. 320 - Life Settlements 09/19/2025

Ep. 319 - Passion for the Underdog 09/12/2025

Ep. 319 - Passion for the Underdog Are you paying tens of thousands for “help” that just sends you back to the bank—without cash flow, without clarity, and without confidence? Mary Jo gets loud (for good reason) to protect the underdog in agriculture. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: In this episode, Mary Jo calls out predatory consulting in ag, breaks down why cash flow beats fancy paperwork, and shows how real Infinite Banking is done—ethically, transparently, and with education. From breaking out your enterprises to negotiating with banks and choosing the right rooms for growth, this is a wake-up call for producers tired of being taken advantage of. Key Takeaways: If you’re paying big fees and still can’t read your P&L or balance sheet, you’re being shortchanged. Break out every enterprise (cattle, custom work, farming, trucking) to see what actually makes money. Cash flow first. Don’t go back to the bank without a plan that funds itself. Watch your operating note rate, many should be ≤ ~8.5%; push back on 9–10%+ and refinance where possible. Infinite Banking is not just any life policy; it requires expertise, proper design, and ongoing education. Choose rooms where you’re the smallest producer—learn up, don’t level off. Nice folks get exploited; learn to advocate for yourself (or bring someone who will). Chapters 00:00 Predatory “help” & farmers getting gouged 00:41 Why I’m loud: passion for the underdog 01:06 If nobody steps up, who will? 02:14 Protecting people others pick on 03:07 The bankruptcy case: big fees, no clarity 05:06 Cash flow ideas are more important then bank optics 06:21 How I get paid (and how I treat clients) 08:23 Beyond IBC: business, margins & marketing 09:08 CO₂ pipeline fight & standing up for landowners 10:15 Titles don’t impress me—results do 11:19 Bad programs & picking the right room 13:35 Life insurance rant: IBC done right only 15:12 Clips vs context: why I sound “loud” 16:07 Personal responsibility & due diligence 16:58 Rates & banks: stop overpaying 18:22 Don’t let “being nice” cost you 20:07 Confidence, advocacy & protection mode 21:20 Vet people; watch outcomes, not talk 22:09 Don’t pay to re-enter a broken system 23:02 Helping create cash flow (no policy needed) (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) If this hit home, drop a comment with your situation, like & subscribe, and share this with a producer who needs backup. When you’re ready, we’ll help you build cash flow and learn IBC the right way. Links Mentioned: Website: Book: #FarmingWithoutTheBank #AgFinance #CashFlow #InfiniteBanking #WholeLife #FarmBusiness #Ranching #Agriculture #EthicalAdvice #SmallBusiness /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38187210

Ep. 318 - Get Out of Your County (and Your Own Way) 09/05/2025

Ep. 318 - Get Out of Your County (and Your Own Way) Too many farmers and ranchers limit their success by staying stuck in their own bubble—relying only on local advice, neighbor gossip, and the county coffee shop crew. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: In this episode, Mary Jo explains why getting out of your county (and your own way) is critical to building a stronger business, protecting your operation from risk, and learning strategies that actually work. From drought planning with hay storage to seeing how other regions handle completely different climates, this episode is all about opening your mind, learning from others, and setting yourself up for long-term success. 👉 If you’re serious about farming smarter—not harder—this one’s for you. Key Takeaways Numbers and business fundamentals never change—but strategies do. Why learning from farmers outside your county/state gives you an edge. The danger of “coffee shop” advice and judgmental attitudes. How farm conferences and workshops help build success. Infinite banking: why bad examples don’t mean the system doesn’t work. Success comes from surrounding yourself with growth-minded people. If you’re still judging what works based on what your neighbor did (or didn’t do), this episode is for you. Mary Jo calls out the small-town mindset that keeps farmers stuck—from refusing to leave the county, to writing off ideas without understanding them. She dives into why it’s dangerous to assume something “doesn’t work” when you’ve never asked the right questions, never left your operation, and never learned what others across the country are doing differently. Whether it’s grazing practices, estate planning, or Infinite Banking, it’s time to stop sitting at the coffee shop and start expanding your thinking. Because if you want to grow, you’ve gotta go. Literally. Chapters 00:00 – The numbers don’t change, but methods do 01:20 – The hay question: preparing for drought 03:12 – Why local-only thinking holds farmers back 04:06 – Different states, different challenges 05:25 – Learning from travel and farm visits 07:01 – Short-sighted farming mindsets 09:02 – Why you need to get out of your county 11:00 – Infinite banking misconceptions 12:18 – Client success stories and networking 13:34 – Surrounding yourself with successful people 15:12 – The cost of closed-mindedness 16:23 – Final thoughts & call to action (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) ✅ Grab the book: ✅ Read the book... ✅ Schedule your appointment today! ✅ Follow us on Facebook: Farming Without the Bank Facebook: #FarmingSuccess #FarmBusiness #RanchingForProfit #FarmingWithoutTheBank #FinancialFreedom #BusinessGrowth #AgEducation #EntrepreneurMindset /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38090530

Ep. 317 - Goals and Mission Statements Are a Waste of Time 08/29/2025

Ep. 317 - Goals and Mission Statements Are a Waste of Time Are goals and mission statements really helping you succeed—or are they holding you back? Here’s why ACTION beats goals every single time. In this episode, Mary Jo Irmen shares a real client story of how leveraging resources and strategic thinking can maximize returns in farming and ranching. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: Instead of chasing numbers, she shows how to shift your mindset toward action and adopt a “How can I?” approach. You’ll learn why overpaying debt might be slowing you down, how to use your money to generate more cash flow, and why surrounding yourself with the right people matters more than writing down goals you’ll never look at again. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of planning but not moving forward, this episode will light a fire under you. Mary Jo shares her candid thoughts on the inefficiency of writing out goals and drafting mission statements, advocating instead for actionable steps and a positive mindset to achieve business success. Mary Jo challenges conventional wisdom and encourages listeners to focus on solutions rather than getting bogged down by goals and mission statements. CHAPTERS (00:00) Why action beats goals every time (00:44) Client story: group advice vs. real strategy (02:25) Why paying off debt isn’t always the best move (03:58) Small thinking vs. business owner thinking (05:39) Throw out your mission statements (07:26) The “How Can I?” mindset shift (08:46) Marketing and growing the business for cash flow (09:32) Building a business with future exit strategies (10:30) Why successful people think differently (12:20) Spotting opportunities instead of excuses (14:18) Why action matters more than written goals (16:42) Why Mary Jo refuses to tie numbers to clients (19:05) Success is about people—not arbitrary goals (20:23) The myth of 4 a.m. routines (22:44) Why doing is better than meditating (for Mary Jo!) (23:51) Why exercise feels like wasted time for some (24:38) Final thoughts and call to action (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) 📚 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank: 👉 📩 Email Mary Jo: 💬 Join the conversation on Facebook: #ActionBeatsGoals #FarmingWithoutTheBank #CashFlow #BusinessMindset #WealthBuilding #Entrepreneurship #InfiniteBanking /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/38022325

Ep. 316 - Reimagining Agricultural Finance 08/22/2025

Ep. 316 - Reimagining Agricultural Finance Tired of banks controlling when and how you sell your crops or cattle? In this episode, Mary Jo Irmen breaks down how the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) can transform the way farmers and ranchers finance their operations. Instead of selling at wholesale prices just to make loan payments, you can take back control, build generational wealth, and stop letting bankers dictate your future. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Video: Why banks force farmers to sell at the wrong time How Infinite Banking creates liquidity, control, and guaranteed growth The 10% tipping point that could change the entire ag market How to finance equipment, cattle, and land without the bank The role of Infinite Banking in reducing stress, farm foreclosures, and even suicide rates in agriculture How building your own banking system protects family farms and generational wealth Mary Jo explores the significant impacts of bank control on farming operations and presents the Infinite Banking Concept as a solution. By controlling their own finances, farmers could make strategic decisions without bank-imposed selling deadlines, increasing profits and reducing stress. The discussion also touches upon the broader implications of financial control, such as influencing market prices, promoting generational wealth, and even addressing serious issues like farmer suicide. ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – The problem: Banks control your operation 02:30 – Why farmers sell at wholesale prices 05:45 – Neighbor A vs. Neighbor B: Who really controls the deal? 08:10 – The Infinite Banking solution for farmers 12:20 – Could 10% of farmers change the markets? 15:00 – Generational wealth & keeping family farms alive 20:00 – Why waiting for others keeps you stuck 23:00 – Final thoughts: Take control, build your own banking system (Timestamps are from the video version. Audio-only edits are always shorter since they have had more fluff removed, so the timestamps are not accurate to this version.) 🌾 Ready to stop letting the bank control your farm? 📘 Grab Mary Jo’s book Farming Without the Bank → 📘 Get Nelson Nash’s classic Becoming Your Own Banker → 📅 Read The Book? Schedule a consultation → 🔔 Subscribe to Farming Without the Bank for more videos on: Infinite Banking for farmers & ranchers How to keep family farms in the family Generational wealth strategies without Wall Street Financial education for business owners ► Facebook: #InfiniteBanking #FarmFinance #FarmingWithoutTheBank #GenerationalWealth /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37922345

Ep. 315 - The True Value of Money 08/15/2025

Ep. 315 - The True Value of Money Too many people think that lending money to family or friends should be “interest-free” — but that mindset is costing them big. 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: In this episode, Mary Jo and John dive into the Becoming Your Own Banker chapter about how to create your own banking system using dividend-paying whole life insurance. They break down why your money always has value, why charging interest (even to your kids) matters, and how Infinite Banking solves the problem of lost opportunity cost. From the biblical case for interest to the inner workings of life insurance companies, Mary Jo explains how EVA (Economic Value Added) applies to your personal finances, why guaranteed growth is a game-changer, and why building a system of policies is a decades-long wealth strategy — not a quick fix. Whether you’re skeptical about IBC or already sold, this episode will open your eyes to how the banking system works, why insurance companies are more conservative than banks, and how to structure your own “family bank” the right way. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS The biblical foundation for charging interest and valuing your money Why you finance everything you buy — cash or credit How EVA (Economic Value Added) applies to personal wealth building Why insurance companies are safer and more conservative than banks How guaranteed growth and dividends actually work in whole life policies Why a system of policies — not just one — is key to financing all your needs ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – Why lending money to your kids at interest isn’t “mean” (00:31) – The myth that your money has no value (00:45) – BYOB: Becoming Your Own Banker, the book that started it all (01:16) – Creating your own banking system through whole life insurance (01:48) – The biblical case for putting money to work (03:14) – What “banking” really means and why the system is flawed (04:39) – The principle that you finance everything you buy (05:10) – Understanding lost opportunity cost (06:28) – EVA (Economic Value Added) and the need for the right tool (07:18) – Whole life insurance as the ideal tool for EVA (10:01) – Why cash buyers are perfect IBC candidates (12:01) – Uninterrupted vs. interrupted compound interest (13:08) – The role of actuaries, rate makers, and lawyers in policy design (16:00) – Whole life guarantees vs. investment risk (18:23) – Policy owners get first dibs on cash value loans (20:00) – How insurance companies invest your premiums (22:44) – Overbuilding for safety: the “fudge factor” in insurance (24:21) – Guaranteed efficiency increase in policies over time (26:00) – How dividends work and why they’re tax-deferred (33:08) – Why the right agent matters for tax strategy (35:02) – Human life value and how much insurance you really need (38:02) – Financing needs outweigh life insurance needs (40:24) – There’s only one pool of money in the world (43:48) – Banks borrow from insurance companies — not the other way around (45:39) – Why paying yourself interest matters (47:53) – Capitalization and why it’s not a 4–7 year lockup (49:25) – A system of policies takes 20–25 years to build 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 📘 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank & Becoming Your Own Banker: 👉 📅 Read The Book? Book a meeting with Mary Jo or John: 👉 🎧 Listen to more Farming Without the Bank Podcast episodes: 👉 Available on all podcast platforms Spotify: Apple: 💬 Email your questions: 📨 👍 Follow on Facebook: 🔗 🔥 WANT TO KEEP LEARNING? Binge past episodes and discover how real people are using Infinite Banking to control their money and create lasting wealth. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37832530

Ep. 314 - What Impacts Your Operation the Most, with Tracy Brunet 08/08/2025

Ep. 314 - What Impacts Your Operation the Most, with Tracy Brunet Are you a farmer worried about losing your family farm to banks, bad estate planning, or expensive buyouts? 👉 Follow Mary Jo Here: 👉 Get the book: Mary Jo Irmen joins Tracy Brunet on the Impact Farming Show to reveal how Infinite Banking for farmers can protect your farm, simplify farm succession planning, and keep your operation in the family for generations. In addition to providing an overview of the Infinite Banking Concept, they discuss specifically how it is instrumental in making transition planning work, how it helps in "fair and equal" situations with off-farm children, and how it factors into old-age care for the farm founders. Mary Jo becomes fiery several times in this episode, including when discussing why farmers work so hard to build their operations over decades, only to have them destroyed by eventually being parcelled out and rendered no longer viable. Key Takeaways: Why most estate plans fail and lead to losing the farm. How infinite banking gives farmers control over their money. The “discounted dollar” strategy that can save operations during a buyout. Why fair doesn’t always mean equal in farm succession. How to avoid banks dictating your farm’s future. Timecodes: (00:00) Mary Jo’s journey from skepticism to Infinite Banking (03:12) Growing up on a farm and seeing bank control firsthand (06:05) Why traditional advice keeps farmers broke (13:46) Infinite Banking explained simply (16:13) How banks control your operation without you realizing it (19:56) Understanding the real cost of money (24:29) Why the stock market isn’t a safe retirement plan for farmers (28:12) Why invest in what you know instead of Wall Street (31:41) How life insurance policies work in Infinite Banking (44:19) Estate planning mistakes that ruin farm transitions (49:35) The “vulture” problem in farm succession (55:27) Why “fair” can still destroy the farm (1:02:34) Why some farm kids build from scratch instead of waiting to inherit (1:07:52) Using policies to pay for nursing home costs (1:09:51) Closing thoughts and links 📚 Get Mary Jo’s book: 👍 Like this video if you believe farmers deserve to keep control of their operations. 💬 Comment your thoughts or questions below — we read every one! 📢 Share this video with a farmer you care about. 🔔 Subscribe for more no-nonsense farm finance advice. #InfiniteBanking #FarmSuccession #EstatePlanning #FarmFinance #SaveTheFarm #FarmingWithoutTheBank #FarmBusiness #GenerationalWealth #FamilyFarm #FarmTransition /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37723990

Ep. 313 - Avoiding the Bank Doesn't Mean Debt-Free or Using Cash 08/01/2025

Ep. 313 - Avoiding the Bank Doesn't Mean Debt-Free or Using Cash Too many farmers assume “Farming Without the Bank” means living cash-only and staying debt-free. In this episode, Mary Jo Irmen sets the record straight. She breaks down why using cash only could be costing you thousands in lost opportunity, why paying interest isn’t the enemy, and how uninterrupted compound interest is the secret sauce behind the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC). Whether you’ve read the book or you’re hearing this for the first time, this episode will completely shift how you think about using cash, debt, and life insurance in your farming operation. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS Why paying with cash isn’t always the smartest move How borrowing against whole life policies preserves your wealth The myth of “cash is king” vs. the truth about cash flow and liquidity Why term insurance isn't cheaper over the long run How uninterrupted compound interest actually works (and why it's a game-changer) The arrival syndrome and why most people don’t “get” IBC without reading the book ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – Why most people don’t understand IBC (00:40) – Clarifying what “Farming Without the Bank” really means (01:55) – Using cash vs. borrowing against a life insurance policy (03:02) – Why insurance companies charge interest (03:49) – Power of uninterrupted compound interest explained (05:04) – The long-term view: thinking like a forester (06:57) – Are you paying yourself back with interest? (07:27) – The flawed “buy term, invest the difference” argument (08:12) – Why mutual insurance companies are good at making money (10:03) – The rising cost of term insurance over time (12:01) – Why cash buyers are ideal IBC candidates (13:04) – Uninterrupted vs. interrupted compound interest (14:43) – How to talk about IBC with skeptical friends (15:32) – Why Mary Jo requires reading the book before meetings (19:14) – Where to get the book + connect with Mary Jo 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 📘 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank: 👉 📅 Read The Book? Book a meeting with Mary Jo: 👉 🎧 Listen to the Without the Bank Podcast for more IBC episodes: 👉 Available on all podcast platforms 💬 Email your questions: 📨 👍 Follow on Facebook: 🔗 🔥 WANT TO KEEP LEARNING? Binge past episodes and learn how real farmers are using IBC to transform their operations. You’ll never look at money the same way again. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37625855

Ep. 312 - Seed or Harvest? 07/25/2025

Ep. 312 - Seed or Harvest? 🌱 Seed vs. Harvest: What Are You REALLY Paying Taxes On? Most farmers and business owners are unknowingly planning for a tax-heavy retirement, and it’s costing them big time. In this episode, Mary Jo Irmen uses a simple corn jar visual to unpack the powerful financial truth behind “seed vs. harvest” taxation. She explains why paying taxes today (on the seed) is often smarter than paying them later (on the harvest), and how whole life insurance and the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) let you grow wealth without giving Uncle Sam a bigger cut later. If you’re putting money into IRAs, 401(k)s, or even Roths without understanding the harvest tax implications, this episode is a must-listen. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS Why "tax deferral" often leads to bigger tax bills in retirement The danger of maxing out your 401(k) or IRA without a tax exit strategy What the government doesn’t want you to know about Roth IRAs How whole life insurance gives you tax control both now and later Why borrowing from your policy is income tax-free, and how to do it right What wealthy people do differently when planning for retirement How Infinite Banking changes your mindset about taxes, income, and control ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – Are you paying tax on the seed or the harvest? (01:15) – Why life insurance premiums shouldn’t be deducted (02:30) – Capital gains and the step-up in basis strategy (03:35) – IRAs, 401(k)s, and tax-deferred regrets (04:30) – Roth IRAs: The government’s least favorite tool (06:00) – The farm analogy for retirement accounts (06:48) – Why whole life insurance creates tax-free retirement cash flow (08:00) – Taxes in retirement: The hidden trap (09:50) – Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and government control (11:03) – Using whole life insurance for smarter cash flow (12:00) – How wealthy people avoid taxes (legally) (13:06) – Why Infinite Banking is all about tax positioning (14:00) – Accountants vs. Financial Advisors: Who’s planning long term? (15:07) – Retirement income vs. forced distributions (16:00) – FAQs: Premium deductions, access to cash value, and more (18:00) – Why the case studies in the book actually matter (19:45) – Company differences in access to policy cash (20:00) – Wrap-up and where to get started 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 📘 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank: 👉 📅 Already read the book? Book a meeting with Mary Jo: 👉 📧 Questions? Reach out: 📨 👍 Follow on Facebook: 🔗 🎧 More episodes: Farming Without the Bank Podcast is available on all podcast platforms. 🔥 WANT TO KEEP LEARNING? Binge past episodes to hear how real people are using IBC to take back control of their finances. Start with the case studies, and never look at retirement planning the same way again. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37547165

Ep. 311 - Farm Progress: Nebraska Farmer Got it WRONG 07/18/2025

Ep. 311 - Farm Progress: Nebraska Farmer Got it WRONG 📣 Farm Progress Got It WRONG About Infinite Banking In this no-holds-barred episode, Mary Jo Irmen breaks down a misinformed article published by Nebraska Farmer on the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC). She exposes the inaccuracies line by line, from calling IBC an “investment” to lumping it in with universal life insurance. Mary Jo calls out the authors' lack of research, clarifies key IBC principles, and explains why misleading articles like this one harm farm families looking for genuine financial solutions. If you're tired of financial "experts" getting it wrong and want the truth about how Infinite Banking can help farmers build generational wealth, this episode is a must-listen. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS The real definition of Infinite Banking (hint: it’s not an investment) Why universal, variable, and indexed life insurance have no place in IBC How misinformation spreads when financial “experts” skip the book The truth about cash value, death benefit, and tax implications Why the “rate of return vs. loan interest” argument misses the point The #1 risk that no one is talking about (and it’s not what you think) Why Mary Jo insists you read the book before talking to her ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – The problem with IBC misinformation in mainstream ag media (01:27) – The article that sparked this episode: Who wrote it and what they got wrong (03:06) – Misinformation starts early: Calling IBC “universal life” (06:10) – Is cash value an investment? No—and here’s why (08:18) – What cash value really is (in plain English) (09:52) – “This rarely works”? Mary Jo responds with real client examples (11:02) – Yes, you must pay premiums, just like every other type of insurance (14:26) – Do early premiums go mostly to the death benefit? Not if you do it right (16:30) – Fearmongering about MECs and taxes (18:59) – The truth about interest: It’s not free money (22:12) – Long-term thinking and uninterrupted compound interest (23:02) – Why you must vet both the company and your agent (28:00) – What the article didn’t say (and why it matters) (30:46) – How industry gatekeeping blocks real financial solutions (33:28) – Mary Jo’s call to action: Don’t let misinformation win (35:36) – Final thoughts and how to take the next step 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 📘 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank 👉 📞 Ready to talk? Book a meeting after reading the book 👉 📬 Got questions? Email Mary Jo 📨 👍 Follow on Facebook for more myth-busting content 🔗 🎧 Listen to past episodes of the Farming Without the Bank Podcast 👉 Available on Apple, Spotify, and all major platforms 🔥 WANT THE TRUTH ABOUT IBC? Start by reading the book. Then come back and re-listen. You’ll hear everything differently. This is your path to control, liquidity, and generational wealth—on your terms. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37370955

Ep. 310 - Arrival Syndrome at its Finest 07/11/2025

Ep. 310 - Arrival Syndrome at its Finest 🎙️ EP. 310 – Arrival Syndrome at Its Finest Why is it so hard to get others to understand Infinite Banking, even when you’ve done the work and read the book? In this episode, Mary Jo Irmen breaks down one of the biggest barriers to spreading the truth about IBC: arrival syndrome—the belief that someone "already knows" and doesn’t need to learn more. From dismissive family members to skeptics crying “scam,” Mary Jo addresses the frustrating (and sometimes ridiculous) excuses people give when they refuse to do their due diligence. If you’ve ever felt like you’re banging your head against a wall trying to explain IBC, this one’s for you. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS What "arrival syndrome" is and how it blocks financial growth Why you don’t need permission from others to take control of your financial future How to deal with common objections like “it’s a scam,” “I already have insurance,” or “it’s a pyramid scheme” Why curiosity and education are the foundation of success with IBC The power of surrounding yourself with like-minded thinkers who “get it” ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – What happens when people leave behind a financial mess (00:57) – Defining arrival syndrome and how it shows up (01:39) – A real email: “How do I get others to read the book?” (02:46) – Why leading with “buy life insurance” fails (03:21) – Stop waiting for permission to start your policy (05:28) – What is Parkinson’s Law? (No, not the disease!) (06:01) – 19-year-old client takes charge—despite his banker mom’s doubts (08:07) – Mary Jo’s one rule: don’t ask questions if you haven’t read the book (09:13) – Common (and absurd) objections to IBC (11:04) – Commission talk: The truth behind how agents get paid (12:14) – “I already have life insurance.” Do you have enough? (13:28) – “I wish people could die for 3 years…” (on leaving behind a mess) (14:39) – “This is a pyramid scheme” and other nonsense (15:20) – If you’re earning 15% returns, great—here’s how to do even better (16:15) – Scientology? Seriously? (18:00) – No book = no meeting. Educate yourself first. (21:01) – Why critics don’t do their homework (22:01) – Surround yourself with people who think like bankers (23:10) – Mary Jo’s advice to frustrated clients: Stop engaging with skeptics (26:06) – Most people stop learning after high school—don’t be like most (28:42) – Final thoughts: Find curious people. Ignore the rest. (29:34) – Episode wrap-up 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 👉 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank: 📘 Get Nelson Nash’s Becoming Your Own Banker 📅 Read the book? Book a meeting with Mary Jo or John: 💬 Email questions: 📨 👍 Join the Facebook community: 🔥 WANT MORE? Listen to past episodes and dive deeper into Infinite Banking with Mary Jo and her clients. You’ll quickly realize this isn’t just about life insurance. It’s about taking back control of your financial future. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37370945

Ep. 309 - Starting a Bank vs. Starting a Policy 07/04/2025

Ep. 309 - Starting a Bank vs. Starting a Policy Starting a Bank vs. Starting a Policy (w/ John Hasche) Most farmers don’t question putting capital into their land, cattle, or equipment. But when it comes to life insurance policies, suddenly they hesitate. Why is that? In this episode, Mary Jo Irmen and John Hasche dig into Nelson Nash’s classic chapter “Creating a Bank Like the Ones You Already Know” and unpack why starting a life insurance policy isn’t all that different from starting a traditional bank. They break down why capitalization is key, how due diligence sets you up for success, and what it means to be the banker, not just the policyholder. Whether you're new to IBC or revisiting your strategy, this episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about building long-term wealth the right way. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS Why capitalization is just as important for policies as it is for farms How starting a life insurance policy mirrors starting a traditional bank Why studying the business of banking helps you make better financial decisions How uninterrupted compound interest builds long-term wealth Why it's critical to choose the right company and the right agent What happens when you “lock the doors” on your policy and stop funding it Why treating your policy like a real business is the only way to succeed ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – Why capitalization is non-negotiable (00:36) – John Hasche returns to review BYOB (01:13) – Starting a bank vs. starting a policy (02:37) – Study the business of banking (05:19) – Capitalization: why you need to put money in (07:06) – Qualifying for a policy vs. a bank charter (08:41) – Picking the right company (location of your “bank”) (10:22) – Making deposits: keeping your policy alive (12:03) – Breaking even: 7–10 years for banks and policies (14:38) – Why whole life insurance is a proven system (16:01) – Fractional reserve banking vs. 1:1 lending (19:14) – Lessons from Midland Bank’s collapse (22:01) – Faith in banks, dollars, and crypto (23:20) – Why loan repayments are crucial (25:02) – Your responsibility as the banker (26:05) – Why policies are boring—and that’s good (27:05) – How to book with Mary Jo or John 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 📘 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank: 👉 https://www.farmingwithoutthebank.com/book 📅 Read the book? Book a meeting: 👉 https://www.farmingwithoutthebank.com/contact 🎧 Listen to more episodes of the Farming Without the Bank Podcast: 👉 Available on all major podcast platforms 💬 Email your questions: 📨 maryjo@withoutthebank.com 👍 Follow on Facebook: 🔗 https://www.facebook.com/FarmingWithoutTheBank 🔥 WANT TO KEEP LEARNING? Binge past episodes and learn how real farmers are using IBC to transform their operations. You’ll never look at money the same way again. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37284835

Ep. 308 - Premiums Should be Recorded as an Expense 06/27/2025

Ep. 308 - Premiums Should be Recorded as an Expense Too many farmers claim they “can’t afford” life insurance premiums—but turn around and spend thousands on tractors, trailers, and toys. In this episode, Mary Jo Irmen challenges that mindset head-on. She walks through why premiums should be treated like any other farm expense, how to rewire your thinking around affordability, and why putting off Infinite Banking is a costlier mistake than you think. If you’ve ever said “I’ll start when I have more money,” this episode is your wake-up call. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS How to treat your premium like any other line-item farm expense Why “I can’t afford it” is usually just a mindset problem The difference between a luxury and a necessity—and why life insurance isn’t a luxury What farmers get wrong about return on investment in IBC How to shift your break-even numbers to include a policy premium Why waiting costs more than starting small ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – Why farmers say they don’t have “extra money” (00:29) – Make your premium a fixed expense (01:08) – You borrow for tractors—why not for banking? (02:08) – Rethinking your breakeven to afford premiums (03:17) – Why so many farmers have zero life insurance (04:24) – We budget for property insurance—but not death? (06:00) – Whole life + IBC is not a luxury (07:22) – The grain bin analogy: investing before return (09:08) – If you die, who’s cleaning up your mess? (09:54) – What if you just needed 5¢ more per bushel? (11:04) – Turning $500k/year into $24M of death benefit (13:14) – Life insurance = scam? Or is the real scam the 401(k)? (14:25) – The power of a steady, boring policy (16:04) – Calculate your premium and just bake it in (17:00) – Reread the book and rewire your brain (18:04) – Email questions—but don’t expect magic answers (18:45) – Book your appointment (yes, it’s worth the wait) 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 📘 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank: 👉 📅 Read the book? Book a meeting with Mary Jo: 👉 💬 Got questions or a podcast topic? 📨 👍 Follow on Facebook: 🔗 🔥 WANT TO KEEP LEARNING? Binge past episodes and learn how real farmers are using IBC to transform their operations. You’ll never look at money—or “expenses”—the same way again. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37179270

Ep. 307 - Fixing Farm Finance, with Damian Mason 06/20/2025

Ep. 307 - Fixing Farm Finance, with Damian Mason Many farmers take pride in being debt-free, but is that pride holding them back? In this episode, Mary Jo Irmen joins Damien Mason on the Business of Agriculture podcast to challenge the status quo of farm finance. They tackle the misconceptions around debt, why Infinite Banking isn’t just about operating expenses, and how to use whole life insurance as a financial tool to build liquidity, flexibility, and generational wealth. Mary Jo shares real examples, powerful insights, and blunt truths about what’s broken in today’s ag financial mindset—and how to fix it using the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC). Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been farming for decades, this conversation will shift how you think about money, succession planning, and the real cost of being “debt-free.” 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS Cash isn’t king—cash flow is Debt isn’t the enemy when it creates opportunity Farms fail financially because of poor planning, not poor production Whole life insurance is the key to uninterrupted compound interest Generational wealth starts with being intentional, not just working hard ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – Why being “debt-free” might be hurting farmers (00:28) – Intro to Mary Jo Irmen and how she discovered IBC (02:04) – What the Infinite Banking Concept actually is (04:09) – How IBC helps farmers become their own banker (06:04) – Why Mary Jo won’t meet with you unless you read the book (08:47) – Real talk: a million-dollar loan and what happens next (10:46) – When to borrow from a policy vs. from a bank (12:00) – How whole life policies preserve liquidity and control (13:48) – Why most policies are sold wrong (and what to avoid) (15:00) – The truth about “cheap” policies and long-term success (16:22) – Using IBC for more than just operating expenses (19:07) – Misguided fear of debt and the myth of the humble, broke farmer (23:08) – The biggest financial mistake farmers make today (25:27) – Why life insurance is critical for estate transfer (29:01) – How to use life insurance in a contract for deed (30:35) – Discounted dollars explained: 18¢ for every $1 passed down (33:02) – Where to connect with Mary Jo and learn more 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 📘 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank: 👉 📅 Ready to talk? Book a meeting after reading the book: 👉 🎧 Listen to more episodes of the Farming Without the Bank podcast: 👉 Available on all major platforms 📨 Questions? Email Mary Jo: 📬 👍 Follow Mary Jo on Facebook: 🔗 🎥 YouTube Channel (Mary Jo Irmen): 🔗 🔥 KEEP LEARNING Explore past episodes and see how real farmers are using IBC to grow their operations, protect their legacy, and make smarter money decisions. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37090810

Ep. 306 - Top 10 Farming Concerns 06/13/2025

Ep. 306 - Top 10 Farming Concerns Too many farmers are stuck in survival mode, juggling high input costs, debt, and unpredictable markets, without a real plan for control or long-term success. In this episode, Mary Jo Irmen unpacks the Top 10 Concerns facing today’s farmers and ranchers, from inconsistent cash flow to retirement worries, and shows how five of them can be tackled with the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC). She also shares real stories from client meetings that highlight the importance of knowing your numbers, creating off-farm income, and understanding the financial tools you already have (but may not be using wisely). This is a wake-up call for anyone still believing the farm will somehow “figure itself out.” If you're serious about taking control of your operation, this episode is a must-listen. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS Most farmers don't have a cash flow problem; they have a utilization problem IBC solves 5 of the top 10 farming concerns (including retirement and access to capital) Why “knowing your numbers” isn’t optional, it’s the foundation of smart financial decisions Custom work, partnerships, and strategic investing can ease cash flow pressure Too many farmers are funding banks and Wall Street before their operations ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – Intro + Play Share reminder (00:44) – The top 10 concerns facing farmers in 2025 (01:27) – #1: Cash flow inconsistency and what to do about it (02:46) – The “How can I?” mindset shift (03:53) – Off-farm businesses, capital investing, and cash flow strategies (04:55) – #2: High operating costs (05:47) – #3: Debt load and the problem with how farmers buy equipment (07:16) – #4: Land affordability + succession planning (07:36) – #5: Access to capital without losing control (07:58) – #6: Price volatility and market uncertainty (08:06) – #7: Tax liabilities and the truth about year-end spending (12:02) – #8: Misunderstanding insurance; PNC, crop, and life (14:53) – #9: Lack of liquidity for emergencies (15:16) – #10: Retirement is a concern, but no one is preparing for it (17:19) – Real example: A client overfunding IRAs while borrowing at 7.5% (18:13) – A real business example: How one farm family runs it like a Fortune 500 company (21:03) – The problem with diluted shares in LLCs across generations (23:00) – Why you don’t need to meet with both John and Mary Jo (23:54) – Final thoughts: 5 problems solved by IBC, are you ready to do something different? 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 📘 Get your copy of Farming Without the Bank: 👉 📅 Read The Book? Book a meeting with Mary Jo or John: 👉 🎧 Listen to more episodes: 👉 Available on all major podcast platforms 💬 Got questions? Email Mary Jo: 📨 👍 Follow on Facebook: 🔗 🔥 WANT TO KEEP LEARNING? Explore past episodes and see how real farmers are transforming their operations with IBC. Whether you're running a small farm or a multi-LLC enterprise, there's a better way to manage money in your operations. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/37001075

Ep. 305 - Yes, I Know Farming. 06/06/2025

Ep. 305 - Yes, I Know Farming. Some folks think Mary Jo Irmen doesn’t understand farming. Spoiler alert: she does. In this episode, Mary Jo sets the record straight about her deep roots in agriculture, from growing up on a cattle ranch in North Dakota to working with thousands of farmers across the country. She shares her personal story, her family’s generational farm history, and why that firsthand experience is critical when helping farmers implement the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC). If you’ve ever wondered whether Mary Jo “gets it,” this episode is the proof. From banker demands to cattle cycles to generational land transfers, she knows the realities farmers face and why most financial advisors don’t. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS Farmers don’t need a banker who knows how to farm—they need one who knows how money works You can’t save the farm without first understanding how to manage cash flow and build your own banking system Generational wealth in farming takes more than grit; it takes the right mindset and financial strategy Advisors who don’t understand the lifestyle have no business giving you advice ⏱️ EPISODE TIMECODES (00:00) – The forgotten piece of every farm operation: the money (00:26) – People don’t know Mary Jo’s background in farming (01:10) – Common assumptions during client meetings (01:47) – Mary Jo’s family history: 4 generations of farming (03:27) – Discovering Infinite Banking and its fit for farmers (04:44) – Why she focused her business on working with farmers (05:52) – The idea behind writing Farming Without the Bank (07:01) – Owning the bank is pointless if you don’t use it (07:47) – Why you need to tend to your own bank (08:00) – Thousands of one-on-one conversations with farmers (10:03) – You don’t need an agronomist—you need a money expert (11:03) – Learning farming practices across 47+ states (13:02) – Most farmers are ignoring the most important asset: money (14:00) – Preparing for generational transfer isn’t premature—it’s essential (16:01) – Why Mary Jo really gets farming (17:01) – There is no such thing as a predictable profit margin (18:08) – Don’t take advice from someone who doesn’t know the industry (19:17) – Farming isn’t a job—it’s a way of life (20:12) – “Every farmer is my farmer.” Why Mary Jo defends her people (22:20) – You have enough vultures. Don’t work with one more (23:26) – Yes, Mary Jo still owns farm ground (24:31) – Why her husband should’ve been born a farmer (24:50) – How to get the book or contact Mary Jo 📚 RESOURCES & LINKS 📘 Grab your copy of Farming Without the Bank: 👉 📅 Ready to talk? Book a meeting with Mary Jo: 👉 💬 Questions or feedback? 📨 👍 Follow on Facebook: 🔗 🔥 WANT TO KEEP LEARNING? Binge past episodes and hear how real farmers are using IBC to take back control. If you’ve ever thought “she doesn’t get it,” this episode proves you wrong. /episode/index/show/farmingwithoutthebank/id/36889545

Ep. 304 - You Don't Need Big Money to Start IBC 05/30/2025

Ep. 303 - Scammers At It Again! 05/23/2025

Ep. 302 - Risks of Transferring Policies to Kids 05/16/2025

Ep. 301 - MILLENNIALS Saving Farms 05/09/2025

Ep. 300 - How Many Acres Do You Farm? 05/02/2025

Ep. 299 - Not Everyone is a Top 3-Percenter 04/25/2025

Farming Without the Bank Podcast

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