Five to Know - Tim Kimberling
Editors note: Behind every meal on your table is a story of dedication, innovation, and hard work. Five to Know is a quick glimpse into the people who make it all possible.
In five questions, I highlight the farmers, creatives, advocates, and industry experts shaping agriculture today. These are the people in the fields before sunrise and working along the supply chain, ensuring food reaches your plate. They may not always be in the spotlight, but their work feeds the world or supports those who do. These are their stories—because knowing where your food comes from starts with knowing the people behind it.
Tim Kimberling began his career in news, editing nightly broadcasts in a fast-paced environment. While he thrived on the energy of daily storytelling, he wanted to take on more creative projects. That desire led him to agency work, where he crafted commercials for brands like Toyota and Mohawk Carpet. One of his proudest achievements was helping develop a campaign for Mohawk that earned a Top 10 Cannes Lions award. Employed at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, he regularly captures content on farms in the States and worldwide.
What inspired you to start working in a field that supports farmers, and how did your journey begin?
Simply put, it got me out of the edit suite. Learning to fly drones opened the door for me to join field teams and capture breathtaking aerial shots. There's nothing quite like seeing a grain leg at magic hour from 400 ft... it’s a perspective that deepens my appreciation for the land and the work farmers do.
What is it about working with farmers that you find most fulfilling or rewarding?
Growing up in the Midwest, in Oklahoma, my family had deep ranching roots. As the "city cousin," I didn’t fully appreciate agriculture’s role in our lives until I began working alongside farmers. Learning firsthand where our food comes from and the dedication of the families who grow it has been incredibly rewarding.
Video of Tim Kimberling’s work.
Can you share a specific moment or experience working with farmers that reinforced your passion for your work?
The Kaiser family in Carrollton, Missouri, truly welcomed us into their lives. From long days on the farm to meals at their family table, we’ve had the privilege of watching their children grow up. Their warmth and hospitality make me feel like I could drop by anytime, and that connection is what makes this work so meaningful.
How has your perspective on agriculture and farming changed or deepened since you began working in this field?
Before working in this field, my understanding of farming was shaped by news headlines... GMO debates, policy discussions, and industry challenges. But learning where the food I put on my own table comes from has been an eye-opening education. Farming is a business, a livelihood, and a way of life. As consumers, we need to be more informed and engaged in conversations about how we feed our families and the world.
What do you think is the most important thing people should understand about the role farmers play in our lives and the broader community?
Farmers aren’t just producers; they’re families. They work tirelessly to put food on all our tables... including their own. Their role is essential, not just in our local communities but in feeding the world. Recognizing their dedication and challenges is key to understanding and supporting the future of agriculture.