When a farmer transitions away from the profession, the emotional weight bears heavily, often leading to feelings of inadequacy and depression. Jeff Corle, a fourth-generation dairy farmer, understands this turmoil all too well.

Meet Jeff Corle

Corle ran his family’s dairy farm nestled in the Laurel Mountains of western Pennsylvania. However, as he faced the realities of a shrinking market, he recognized that in spring 2022, it was time to make a difficult decision. “We were just getting too small to compete,” he reflected.

The Heart-Wrenching Decision

Closing the farm meant saying goodbye to his cherished Guernseys. “When that truck pulled out, it literally felt as though something was being ripped out of me,” he said, illustrating the depth of his sorrow.

Finding a Voice Through Music

In the wake of his profound loss, Corle sank into a dark depression. Seeking solace, he turned to music, picking up his guitar to express his grief. “I just felt like that pain was consuming me, and I had to get it out somehow,” he explained.

The Birth of “Empty Barn”

A song titled “Empty Barn” emerged from his struggles. After sharing the track with a friend, he posted it on social media, surprised by the overwhelming support it garnered. “Along with all those downloads came the most wonderful comments of love, support, and encouragement. It made me see that I wasn’t alone,” Corle remarked. This moment marked the beginning of his healing journey.

Taking His Message Nationwide

Following the success of “Empty Barn,” Corle ventured to Nashville to record the song and subsequently an entire album. He began touring, speaking at various events about farmer mental health. “I said I would do it under the condition that I could perform ‘Empty Barn’ in the talk,” he noted.

Connecting with Others

Corle’s “keynote concerts” have become platforms for raising awareness about mental health issues in the agricultural community. “It’s important for guys who look like me to be able to talk about what they’re going through,” he affirms. “If I had kept that inside, it would have killed me.”

Hope and Healing Through Music

During his performances, he aims to uplift attendees while sharing his challenges. “I don’t leave you in that down, though. We do some happy songs, and we get clapping and stomping,” he says, blending messages of hope with moments of reflection.

Episode Highlights

• Corle reflects on shutting down his family’s small dairy in 2022.
• He describes the emotional toll of selling his Guernsey herd.
• Writing the song “Empty Barn” helped him process deep grief and depression.
• After posting his song on Facebook, Corle was surprised by the number of views and responses.
• Farmers from across the country sent in photos for the “Empty Barn” video.
• The song resonated with others facing the loss of their farms.
• Corle now performs “keynote concerts” to raise awareness around farmer mental health.
• He emphasizes the need for men in agriculture to talk about emotions.

Links and Resources

• If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. If texting is preferred, text HOME to 741741 for free crisis support 24 hours a day in the U.S. If the risk is immediate, call 911.
• Visit jeffcorlemusic.com for a free download of “Empty Barn.”

Listen to Jeff Corle

Subscribe to 15 Minutes With a Farmer on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please rate and review us!