166: Bulletproof Your Farm and Skyrocket Your Farm's Profitability Through Family Farm Succession Planning, with Andy Caygeon Junkin

Today Rod discusses strategic fertilizer management and the role it plays in farm profitability. He shares research that reveals what the most profitable farms are spending on fertilizer. Rod uncovers a startling truth: top-performing farms are spending significantly less on fertilizer! Join us as we unpack the common blunders of overapplying nitrogen and discuss the nuanced relationship between nitrogen rates and crop yield. Tune in for these insights on cost-effective crop management and more, as we aim to help your farm achieve sustainable profitability.

Unlock the secrets to combat soybean cyst nematode and tar spot, as we share expert-led strategies that can protect your crops and increase your yields. This episode brings you the latest on how to fight against the relentless spread of SCN and how cytokinins, a plant growth regulator, can revolutionize your approach. Discover how strengthening your plants can make them less susceptible to these pests, and offering actionable insights to keep these diseases at bay. Today, you will learn the game- changers for your soil and crop vitality.

In this episode, Tyler talks about combining sugar with nitrogen in your farming operation. He highlights the role of sugar as a carbohydrate source when applied with nitrogen, particularly for pre-emergent applications. This thought-provoking discussion is not just about nutrient management but also about respecting each farmer's unique decision-making process. Tune in to discover innovative farming practices that could up your game in crop nutrition and soil health.

Unlock the secrets of growing better wheat with Chris, an Oklahoma farmer as he reveals the innovative techniques their farm has used in transforming soil health and yields. He shares the art of optimizing wheat production. This episode is rich with stories of accidental experiments, innovation, and the unwavering goal of leaving the land richer for the coming generations.

Join us as we sit down with Greg from Central Illinois, who shares his story of embracing innovative strategies for enhancing crop yields and promoting sustainability. Listen in as Greg details the challenges he faced with soil types and unpredictable weather, his past fertility practices, and the plateau in yields that led him to seek out new solutions.

Unlock the secrets to maximizing yield with a deep dive into spring nutrient application. Our discussion sheds light on the various factors that can make or break your crop's success, such as soil type, moisture levels, and the delicate balance required when working with products like anhydrous ammonia. As we navigate the changing landscape of agriculture, this episode aims to ignite a spark in growers, encouraging a rethink of fertilization strategies for optimal yields.

Today Rod covers the ins and outs of managing newly acquired rented farmland. Listen in as we tackle the challenge of optimizing soil fertility, sharing our best strategies for dealing with high or low pH levels. We will examine the pitfalls of fertility programs that may not yield the expected results, emphasizing the need for efficiency on your rented land. Get ready to boost your yield after listening to this podcast.

Today Tyler and Rod tackle misconceptions around micronutrients that farmers face. We dissect common misconceptions in ag retail and stress the importance of a well-rounded nutritional balance for crops. This episode highlights the impact of comprehensive soil testing and strategic management of farm inputs to enhance profitability. The A Better Way to Farm team is ready to help serve your farm, so just reach out! We are dedicated to empowering farmers with knowledge, ensuring they reap the rewards of their hard work.

Join us today as we sit down with Scott, a farmer and Certified Crop Advisor from Chamberlain, South Dakota. We explore the intricate world of wheat production and his journey from working at a co-op to returning to his roots as a full-time farmer. Today, Scott shares insights on how working with the A Better Way to Farm program has increased his wheat yields and profitability. Tune in as we share the secrets to maximizing wheat yield through a focus on plant health. We’re challenging the status quo and changing the mindset about wheat as a secondary crop can lead to significant improvements in both productivity and financial returns. Don't miss out on this conversation, and an optimistic view on the untapped potential of higher managed wheat.

Join us as we discuss the shifts of herbicide use on our farms, with a spotlight on the EPA's recent regulatory changes concerning dicamba and BASF's launch of a new herbicide. Tyler and Rod offer their insights, criticizing the trend of repackaging old chemicals as new solutions and highlighting the essential role of weather conditions in product performance. This timely discussion also sheds light on the herbicide classification chart. This episode not only addresses the cost per gallon but also focuses on cost- effectiveness per acre, reinforcing the value of returning to proven agricultural practices and offering hope and actionable solutions in the face of dicamba changes.