On the farm, on the ranch, and in our homes, women have always been the heartbeat of agriculture. But there’s another role they naturally step into: the ProtectHER—the one who keeps everyone safe.
That’s precisely what the ProtectHER Special is all about. “Women Leading Ag Safety: Protecting the Family, Farm & Future,” premieres on Labor Day — Monday, September 1, at 6:00 PM ET — only on RFD-TV and RFD-TV Now.
Host Kirbe Schnoor sat down with women who live this every day, sharing stories of resilience, responsibility, and the everyday choices that keep families safe on the farm and ranch.
One of those voices was Carey Portell, a Missouri cattle farmer and speaker who survived a devastating drunk driving crash. Her story is raw, powerful, and a reminder that one decision behind the wheel can change lives forever. Today, Carey’s focus is crystal clear: safety first—whether that’s on the road, in the pasture, or at home with her family.
Joining the conversation was Shawnda Vega from Nationwide Agribusiness. She shared their Drive the Five campaign, which shines a light on rural road dangers. It’s eye-opening: rural roads carry less than a third of U.S. traffic but see more than 40% of fatal crashes. Drive the Five is helping change those numbers with five simple, life-saving principles—including driving impairment-free.
The special also featured Zoe Kent, an eighth-generation farmer who shares her life online. Zoe leads by example—wearing protective gear, practicing safe habits, and even having tough talks with family when it comes to farm safety. Her reminder hit home: “It’s not the 99% of the time you do it right—it’s that 1% when you rush that can change everything.”
From ATV riding to grain bin awareness, one theme ran through every story: farm safety isn’t just a checklist—it’s a mindset. And women in agriculture are often the ones making sure everyone gets home at the end of the day.
👉 Want to learn more? Check out Nationwide’s Agribusiness Resource Center for more farm safety resources at nationwide.com/agribusiness.
At the end of the day, being a ProtectHER means leading with love, protecting our people, and preserving the legacy of agriculture for the next generation.
About ProtectHER: Women Leading Ag Safety
Since 1926, Nationwide®—founded by farmers, for farmers—has been committed to protecting what matters most. Today, that legacy continues through ProtectHer, a partnership with FarmHER + RanchHER that celebrates the women who lead with care, courage, and intention.
Across generations, women have often played a vital role in protecting their families, farms, and futures. On the road, in the fields, and at home, they are frequently the driving force behind safety and sustainability. ProtectHer honors these women – those who make safety second nature and legacy a priority.
Together we’re creating a ripple effect of protection across farms, ranches, and ag operations—because when women lead, everyone is safer. Find a Nationwide Agent.