525 Mitchell Yerxa A Dry Conversation

In this episode, Rob Sharkey interviews Loran Steinlage from West Union, Iowa, exploring innovative farming practices, soil health, crop diversification, and the future of agriculture. Discover insights on relay cropping, cover crops, data-driven farming, and industry collaborations that are shaping sustainable agriculture. key topics Relay cropping and its benefits Soil health and carbon sequestration Use of cover crops like cereal rye and annual ryegrass Data collection and farm management technology Industry collaboration and biofuel policies Farm diversification and crop rotation strategies Challenges and solutions in modern farming Farmer mentorship and community engagement  Takeaways Relay cropping can produce three cash crops a year, boosting income. Cover crops like cereal rye improve soil structure and reduce weeds. Data collection with soil sensors shows soil health is improving. Industry engagement helps farmers adopt new technologies. Farmers can balance profitability with sustainability. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest overview 02:02 Farm history and crop diversification 03:58 Industry events and technology showcases 06:50 Relay cropping and soil health benefits 12:06 Data collection and farm management 15:54 Soil improvement and cover crop strategies 21:11 Industry collaboration and policy insights 27:52 Farmers' perspectives on innovation 34:58 Future trends and industry partnerships 42:05 Closing thoughts and farmer advice  

In this episode, we explore the journey of Jeremy's Matuszewski sons, TJ and Bobby, as they transition into the family business, Thunderstruck. We discuss their experiences with farm shows, product innovation, and balancing sports, coaching, and work, highlighting the importance of family, innovation, and industry connections. Key topics Transition from non-ag backgrounds to family business Farm show strategies and customer engagement Product innovation and design in agriculture Balancing sports, coaching, and work commitments Family dynamics and succession in agriculture Chapters 00:00Introduction to Thunderstruck and the Guests 01:58The Sons' Backgrounds and Entry into the Family Business 07:10Learning Curve at Farm Shows and Farmer Interactions 11:56Product Innovation: Concaves and Design Process 19:45Balancing Sports, Coaching, and Work 29:48Family Dynamics and Coming Full Circle 39:49The Thunderstruck Family and Industry Connections 49:52Company Growth, Show Strategies, and Future Plans 53:26Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Join us as we explore the journey of third-generation farmers Brittany and Calvin Beasley of Beasley Orchard in Indiana. Discover their diverse crop operations, agritourism strategies, and how they navigate modern farming challenges while sharing insights into sustainable practices and community engagement. key topics Diversification of crops and agritourism activities Challenges of farming near suburban development Family farm legacy and succession planning Use of technology and innovative practices in farming Labor management and H2A visa program Marketing and community engagement strategies Chapters 00:00Introduction to Beasley Orchard and Guests 04:12History of the Farm and Crop Diversification 10:09Transition from traditional farming to agritourism 19:54Crop management and planting practices 29:53Farm infrastructure and expansion plans 39:46Community relations and handling development pressures 49:59Future plans and challenges in farming 51:55Advice for aspiring farmers and closing remarks

In this episode Laney and Joseph Harvick talk about their journey from Texas to Missouri, their innovative farming practices, community engagement, and overcoming storm-related setbacks. Discover practical advice for aspiring farmers and insights into building a successful local food business. key topics Journey from Texas to Missouri Community engagement and building trust Transition from plant nursery to food production Diversification of farm income streams Farm resilience and storm recovery Farm education and community classes Building relationships with local restaurants and institutions Farm mentorship and advice for new farmers takeaways Building trust in a new community takes time and effort. Diversifying income streams is key to farm success. Community involvement and education foster local support. Resilience and adaptability are crucial after setbacks. Personal relationships are vital for business growth. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Laney and Joseph Harvick 02:02Their move from Texas to Missouri 04:05Starting in community and building trust 07:00Transition from nursery to food production 12:03Building relationships with local restaurants and institutions 14:56Farm infrastructure and hands-on skills 19:50Diversification: Greenhouses, high tunnels, and specialty crops 24:45Community involvement and education classes 30:04Homeschooling and community support 34:48Handling storm damage and resilience 40:10Advice for new farmers and farm mentorship 44:51Final thoughts and encouragement for farmers

Join us as we explore the California grape industry with Kyle Collins, manager of North Valley Operations at Allied Grape Growers. We discuss vineyard management, industry challenges, market dynamics, and the future of American wine. key topics California grape industry overview Role of cooperatives in wine production Market and legislative challenges for American wine Grape varieties and vineyard management Industry impact of global wine glut Chapters 00:00Introduction to Lodi, California and Agriculture 03:00The Role of Thunderstruck Ag in Farming 05:47Understanding the Cooperative Model in Wine Production 09:07Challenges Faced by Grape Growers 11:57The Importance of Collective Bargaining in Agriculture 15:08Family Values and Traditions in Farming 17:50The Debate on American Wine Standards 21:07Personal Journey in the Vineyard Industry 25:00Rattlesnakes and Vineyards: A Unique Challenge 28:40Daily Life in the Vineyard: Balancing Farming and Sales 30:37Navigating Relationships: Growers and Co-ops 31:07Pest Management: Grapes and Their Challenges 32:30Traveling the Vineyards: A Regional Perspective 33:28California's Unique Agricultural Challenges 35:22Demand vs. Supply: The Shrinking Vineyard Landscape 37:43Generational Shifts: Changing Drinking Habits 40:03Global Wine Market: Imports and Exports 42:29The Future of Affordable Wine: Market Innovations 46:44The Heart of the Industry: People Behind the Wine 48:09Connecting with the Community: Resources and Outreach

Are you ready to be inspired by a man who embodies resilience, passion, and authenticity? Meet Jake Jacobs — a fifth-generation Tennessee farmer and construction mogul whose story is as raw as it is motivating. This episode isn't just about farming; it's about living with purpose, embracing every challenge, and pushing the boundaries of what hard work can achieve. In this episode: Jake's journey from farming to building a multi-faceted empire in construction and horses How his family heritage shapes his identity and business decisions The fascinating world of Tennessee walking horses and the deep roots of horse culture in Murfreesboro The innovative safety technology transforming explosive and construction work The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and the power of delegation Lessons on mindset: working early, working hard, and appreciating blessings His thoughts on community, development, and balancing progress with tradition Personal stories of love, resilience, and pure passion for horses, family, and farming Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and the significance of Jake Jacobs' story 02:03 - Growing up on the farm and expansion into construction 04:25 - The construction industry: tackling the jobs no one else wants 06:43 - Breaking bedrock and working with modern technology in blasting 09:06 - Building a successful team and the art of delegation 10:32 - Growing up on a farm and nurturing a lifelong passion for horses 12:23 - The incredible journey of creating a world-class Tennessee walking horse farm 14:15 - The competitive, yet tight-knit horse community in Murfreesboro 16:38 - Trends in farmland development and the impact on agriculture 18:28 - Community growth, local industry, and how new businesses influence the area 20:24 - How successful people surround themselves with success 22:16 - A personal story: navigating a horse accident with resilience and faith 24:33 - The power of a strong mindset and perseverance in the face of adversity 27:26 - The operation of a high-end horse breeding and training farm 30:40 - Maintaining a state-of-the-art breeding facility and the business behind it 33:59 - The economics of breeding champion Tennessee walking horses 35:52 - Managing health, safety, and disease control in a busy farm environment 38:11 - The dedication of a multi-trainer operation and the art of equitation 40:00 - The passion of a young girl chasing her dreams in the horse world 41:16 - Moments of emotion: tears of joy and pride 43:08 - The significance of the Tennessee walking horse industry 44:32 - The camaraderie and the importance of farm organizations 45:29 - The cultural pride of Tennessee horses and the industry's future 46:55 - The mindset of a champion: early mornings, hard work, and gratitude 47:51 - Closing thoughts and how to connect with Jake Jacobs

In this episode, Mitchell Yerkes shares insights into California agriculture, including crop diversity, regulatory challenges, innovative drying techniques, and the importance of human connection in farming. key topics Crop diversity in California Regulatory and legislative challenges Innovative fruit drying techniques Water management and sustainability Farm advocacy and human connection Chapters 00:00Introduction to Calusa and Farming Background 03:13Challenges of Farming in California 06:00Family Farming Dynamics and Personal Journey 08:50Regulatory Landscape and Its Impact on Agriculture 12:07Innovative Solutions in Agriculture 14:54Sustainable Practices and Market Adaptation 22:21The Fruit Drying Yard: A Legacy of Innovation 28:57Advocacy in Agriculture: Lobbying for Farmers' Needs 32:16The Joys of Parenthood: Lessons from a Three-Year-Old 39:54Coaching Youth Sports: More Than Just Games 41:49California Agriculture: A Diverse and Precious Resource

In this episode, George McDonald of Katisa Farms shares insights on modern farming practices, crop diversification, relationship building with industry partners, and the importance of community involvement. Discover how innovation, tradition, and relationships drive success in agriculture. key topics Farm diversification and crop management Relationship building with distilleries and retailers Use of technology in farming (GPS, no-till, drying) Community involvement and political engagement in agriculture Family legacy and succession planning in farming 00:00Introduction to George McDonald and Katisa Farms 01:56Why Tennessee is a Growing Farm State 03:46Farm diversification: Crops and markets 08:00Use of technology and equipment in farming 12:04Relationship with Chattanooga Whiskey and Bex Hybrids 15:56Marketing strawberries and watermelons 19:48Farm history and family legacy 24:09Leadership and team at Katisa Farms 28:02Watermelon harvesting and marketing 32:11Engagement with politics and community 36:03Labor and crop management challenges 39:50Quality control and distribution logistics 43:52Farm events and recognition programs 48:12Building relationships with policymakers 52:05Closing thoughts and farm contact information

Ready to get fired up about what's possible on the farm? In this episode, we sit down with Kentucky farmer Quentin Pottinger, a visionary who's blending historical roots with cutting-edge technology to reshape agriculture—think autonomous tractors, smart farm research, and a renewed focus on community sustainability. Buckle up—this isn't just talk, it's a movement. In this episode: Quentin's journey from eight generations of Kentucky farming to pioneering autonomous planting systems How new tech like Sabanto's retrofit kits is transforming labor and farming efficiency The evolving whiskey industry and local grain markets – supporting community through food and drink The impact of economic downturns and market shifts on farming strategies Why long-term, sustainable production and community investment matter more than ever The future of autonomous harvesting, drone spraying, and precision farm monitoring Lessons from history: reclaiming the spirit of farm communities before the industrial boom Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: The new era of farm innovation and community focus 02:03 - Bex Hybrid's practical research: smarter spray passes to cut costs 04:56 - Growing whiskey grains: supporting local distilleries & malt houses 10:03 - The shift to autonomous equipment and tech breakthroughs 12:30 - Economic realities steering farm investments & downturn strategies 15:53 - Market forecasts: whiskey, alcohol demand, and demographic shifts 18:21 - Investing in the community: Farm sustainability in environmental, social, and economic terms 21:14 - Long-term visions: Rebuilding the farm's purpose beyond commodity cycles 27:49 - Smart farm monitoring: remote control, cutting-edge sensors, and field mapping 34:56 - Autonomous planting, handling geofence issues, and future equipment plans 40:32 - Future harvest strategies: multi-directional corn heads & autonomous combines 43:56 - Supporting whiskey with malt houses & the importance of local flavor 48:40 - The joy of seeing your product in a glass – farm-to-bottle stories 50:08 - Connecting with Quentin: social media & farm life insights 51:27 - Reflections: Are we nearing the end of the commodity boom? 52:12 - Wrap-up: Embracing the new, respecting the old, and investing in the community

Mark Richard shares his remarkable journey from childhood poverty in Los Angeles to becoming a top real estate agent, overcoming cancer through natural healing, and rebuilding his life after devastating fires. His story offers insights into resilience, holistic health, and the importance of a balanced lifestyle. key topics Overcoming childhood poverty Natural healing of cancer The role of meditation and diet in health Resilience after fire and loss Balancing life, health, and success Chapters 00:00Introduction to Mark Richard's Journey 02:57Growing Up in Poverty: A Childhood in Los Angeles 05:53Overcoming Adversity: Education and Early Career 09:05Success in Real Estate: From Struggles to Achievements 11:49Health Crisis: The Beginning of a New Challenge 15:03Radical Changes: A Shift to Natural Healing 17:55The Journey of Healing: Meditation and Nutrition 21:12The Impact of Lifestyle Changes on Health 23:51Results of a New Approach: A Doctor's Perspective 26:12Healing Through Visioning and Breathwork 30:21The Journey of Healing and Sharing Knowledge 33:14From Real Estate to Iris Farming 37:03The Impact of Wildfires on Life and Business 40:46Finding Balance and Managing Stress 44:21Writing a Book and Spreading Awareness