For Bob Quinn, agriculture has always felt like home.
"I was a farm kid growing up," Quinn said. "My parents were not farmers, but my grandparents were."
Although he grew up near Des Moines, Iowa, Quinn spent much of his childhood connected to his family's farm. When the farm was eventually sold for development, he found ways to stay involved in agriculture by helping relatives on nearby farms.
After high school, Quinn became one of the first members of his family to attend college, enrolling at Iowa State University. While initially looking beyond agriculture for a career, he quickly realized where his interests truly belonged.
"I found out while I was in school that I didn't know a whole lot about anything but farming," he said.
While working in Extension at Iowa State, Quinn met broadcasters Dale Williams and Dallas McGinnis of WOI Radio and Television. The experience sparked his interest in farm broadcasting and led to his first job at a radio station in Ottumwa, Iowa.
Quinn joined NAFB in 1978 and credits the organization with helping shape his career.
"I was a young college graduate, and thought I knew everything but knew nothing," he said. "NAFB was a tremendous opportunity for mentoring."
Through NAFB, Quinn met broadcasters from across the country and built relationships that eventually led to his next opportunity: WHO Radio in Des Moines.
"That was kind of my dream," Quinn said. "If I'm going to be in farm broadcasting, man, that's the best place there is."
He joined WHO in 1983 and has remained affiliated with the station ever since.
One of Quinn's favorite aspects of farm broadcasting is the connection he has built with farm families over the years.
"They treat us like family," he said. "These are people who invite you into their house and treat you like you're part of the family."
He also values the opportunity to experience every side of agriculture, from visiting farms and interviewing producers to learning about emerging technologies and research.
"It's something different every day," Quinn said.
For young people considering a career in farm broadcasting, Quinn encourages them to take advantage of internships, job shadowing opportunities and industry connections.
"You just have to get your foot in the door and be persistent," he said.
After more than four decades behind the microphone, Quinn says he has never regretted choosing farm broadcasting.
"It wasn't something that I decided when I went to school," he said. "But it was a natural fit, and it's something that I've enjoyed every day."
