Across the Acres

On this month's episode of Across The Acres, David and Morgan dig into the stories of Collin Scherer, PFR Operations Manager, and Aaron Carmer, PFR Location Lead. From day-to-day life in Practical Farm Research, to family, teamwork, and navigating each season of life, Collin and Aaron share an honest, lighthearted look at the work they do and the friendship they've built along the way.

If you've spent any time around the office, you've likely crossed paths with Toby Ripberger. Now a Senior Event Strategist at Beck's, Toby brings over 20 years of experience—and plenty of stories—to this month's episode of Across The Acres.  He joins David and Morgan to share insights on staying true to yourself, building strong connections, and the importance of community

They say, “Behind every great man is a great woman.” In this case, that woman is none other than Glendia Beck.A woman of incredible talent, grace, and wisdom, Glendia has been by Sonny Beck's side for 63 years, sharing in the journey, the challenges, and the countless memories along the way. In this special episode, she sits down to reflect on the life they've built together, the lessons learned, and the moments that have shaped their story.

Sonny Beck is a busy man. Have you ever wondered how he manages his day-to-day responsibilities? Allow us to introduce you to Mark Thomas.During this episode of Across The Acres, David and Morgan sit down with Mark, Executive Assistant to Beck's CEO, Sonny Beck. With 26 years of experience, Mark shares how he has learned to take life one day at a time in a world and career that can sometimes be stressful.

In this episode, Kate offers an authentic glimpse into her life, sharing insights into her strong family bonds and how her unique perspective enriches Beck's social media channels.Join us as Kate explores the importance of self-reflection, cultivating meaningful connections, and building a successful brand. She empowers us all to prioritize self-care and embrace growth in every aspect of life.

During this episode of #AcrossTheAcres, David and Morgan sit down with Shantel Beck. Listen as she shares her thoughts on the importance of trusting in God's timing. Whether it's parenthood, your career path, or pursuing your passions, she discusses how patience and intentionality are the key to an unhurried, purposeful life.

Aaron Nordly, Area Team Leader, brings a powerful virtual presence to Across the Acres with David and Morgan. From South Central Minnesota, Aaron shares his inspiring journey of faith and perseverance, even when confronted with personal challenges. Tune in for a dose of motivation and a reminder to stay true to yourself and keep focused, even in the face of adversity.

Brady Vondra, seasoned Beck's Dealer with Vondra Ag Services, grew up on a family farm in southwestern Wisconsin and lives by the motto "Never take anything for granted."Join David and Morgan on Across the Acres as they dive into Brady's story, what called him to become a dealer for Beck's, and how he overcame the catastrophic event of September 2023 that significantly impacted his dealership and his life. This episode is a story of resilience, community, and finding faith in the face of disaster. 

Dusty Libel, a seasoned Beck's Dealer with NEK Ag Services, brings a unique perspective to the world of agriculture. Raised in the heart of Kansas, he's weathered life's storms with resilience and optimism.Join David and Morgan on Across the Acres as they delve into Dusty's journey. Discover what fuels his passion for farming, how he's overcome adversity, and the unwavering faith that has guided him through life's challenges. This inspiring conversation offers valuable insights for anyone facing tough times.

Gina Beckner, Beck's Captain of Aviation, was born and raised in Indiana and knew she wanted to be a pilot since she could walk and talk. Check out this episode of Across the Acres to discover Gina's flight path to Beck's, how she flourishes as a female in a male-dominated industry, and what it's like working with her husband and the rest of Beck's aviation crew.

Like father like son, right?  As we prepare to celebrate Father's Day, we had the opportunity to sit down with Beck's President, Scott Beck. Following in the footsteps of his own dad, Scott shares how their relationship has helped shape him into the man he is today – both at work, as a dad, and now as a grandpa!

Serving such a large customer base is not always easy. Check out Episode 35 of Across the Acres to learn more about Beck's Sign Shop Manager, Brandon Ricks, what drives him creatively, and how he's worked to master the art of being an extroverted introvert to deliver quality service and exceptional work for Beck's.

In 2024, Beck's employees and dealers have committed to embarking on a journey to become Unstoppable Together. But what drove our Leadership Team to challenge each of us to continue sowing the seeds of a positive culture despite our continued growth and success? Listen in as Scott Beck sits down with world-renowned author and public figure Andy Andrews to discuss how this cultural investment will help us grow in ways that benefit us as a collective and as individuals in all areas of life.

Usually the man behind the camera, our ATA producer and Beck's Videographer, Morgan Fitch, sits down with David for Episode 32 of #AcrossTheAcres. Listen as he shares how his passion for all things videography, animation, and photography led him to joining our team in 2019.

Ben Orebaugh, Trait Introgression Breeder for Beck's, began his career with Beck's in 1999. In 2012, he took a leap of faith, resigned from his role as Lead Corn Breeder, and moved to Africa.After five years in Africa, he moved home and accepted a new role with Beck's, working in the research department on trait conversions. But this episode of Across the Acres isn't about what Ben does today. It's about the life-changing experience that got him to where he is today — an experience breeding beyond borders.

Proud mom, grandma, and Michigander, Shelley Bryant joins David for Episode 31 of #AcrossTheAcres. Listen as she shares the unexpected ways God guided them on their journey to becoming apart of the Beck's family of dealers.

If you're looking for a “can-do” girl, look no further than Sheila Downey.Nearing her 10-year anniversary at Beck's and now working as our Regional Precision Technology Specialist, Sheila isn't afraid to jump right into any challenge. She is the epitome of a powerful female in agriculture, and we are lucky to have her on our team.

Straight from graduation to the Beck's HQ in Atlanta, IN, Jason Morehouse has been a part of our team for 19 years now. Starting out as a farmhand, and now working as our Title Production Manager, Jason recognizes the value in asking questions to broaden his knowledge and perspective - something we can all strive for.

A family man and passionate advocate for agriculture, Beck's Director of Research, Agronomy, and PFR, Jim Schwartz, is dedicated to finding "uniquely different" solutions to help farmers succeed. In this podcast episode, Schwartz talks about his work across the Midwest and shares his insights on the latest trends in agronomy, including how farmers can use these tools to improve their operations.

One thing about Wil Foster, Beck's Senior Graphic Designer, is that he's never afraid to try something new. After hopping on a plane from Australia to the US, Wil has taken on countless projects that have led him to many once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. From photographing rockstars to landing here at Beck's, his story is one you won't want to miss out on.

Along with being Beck's Facilities Project Manager and Designer, Chris Beck is a family-man, Purdue University grad, and musician. Listen as he sits down with David and Morgan to share his thoughts on the challenges of maintaining the delicate balance between growth and preserving the traditions that make a workplace feel like home.

Life has unexpected twists and turns, like when Roger Neuweg's career of 30 years was flipped upside down without warning. Joining the team 9 years ago, he now serves as Beck's Processing Team Lead in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. Listen as David, Morgan, and Roger discuss how to make the most of life when God deals you a tough hand.

Our research team works hard behind the scenes each day to ensure that our products are top-notch. Quinn Albrecht, Research Technology Associate, sits down with David and Morgan to discuss how he landed here, life outside of Beck's, and how he answers the question, "So, you work in research... what does that mean exactly?"

Craig Spray, Beck's Dealer Development Lead, joins David and Morgan for Episode 23 of Across the Acres to discuss how he landed at Beck's 21 years ago. Life is a journey with many twists and turns; often times, things don't go as planned. Listen as Craig shares how despite life's many curveballs, he is thankful for the opportunities that have led him to where he is today.

Taking him out of the gym and into the studio, Beck's Personal Health Coach, Andy Sovern, sits down with David and Morgan to reflect on the journey that has led him here. Listen as he shares how sometimes the best things in life happen when you least expect them to.

Whether you are a person of faith or not, there is something to be learned from our episode 21 guest, Stu Manchester. A fourth-year Beck's dealer, Stu strongly resonates with the “faith, family, and farming” values that we have as a company – but it hasn't always been that way. Through this honest and vulnerable conversation, Stu provides a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and that there is always hope for healing and transformation. Listen as he shares with David and Morgan how his faith gave him a new perspective on life, and how it helped him find meaning in the midst of his toughest times. TW: This podcast episode contains discussions of suicide, violence, homelessness, and addiction, which may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, addiction, or homelessness, please seek professional help. Listener discretion is advised.

From an Intern to IT to Innovation, Brad Fruth has had quite the journey during his 22 years at Beck's. Now serving as Beck's Director of Innovation, Brad works each day to find new ways that out internal departments can partner with outside businesses and universities – specifically focusing on the future of agriculture and how Beck's slogan of “helping farmers succeed” will apply to more than just seed sales.

Looking for a pick-me-up? Listen to Episode 19 of Across The Acres with Java Joe! A dad, grandpa, and coffee connoisseur, Joe Mangas landed at Beck's 9 and a half years ago and doesn't see that ending any time soon.As Beck's Technology Culture Lead, Joe is always willing to lend a helping hand. During this episode, he gives us a lesson in the importance of relationship building and being a friend to those around you. Grab a cup of coffee (or two) and listen today!

In light of New Year's resolutions and starting off on a positive note, it's only fitting that we begin the 2023 season of Across The Acres by interviewing one of Beck's most sunshine-y personalities, Bethany Gremel.Being at the company for 13 years and now serving on Beck's Leadership Team as the Director of Culture and Brand Experience, she is a shining example of a strong woman in ag – personally and professionally. Listen as she shares what growth she has seen since joining Beck's in 2009.

Husband, dad, grandpa, and a forefather of Beck's Marketing Department. David Friedrich, now Beck's Dealer Manager, is a man with many passions. During Episode 17, David shares what makes him tick, and after 21 years at Beck's, he's got a lot to share. You don't want to miss this one!

During Episode 16, David Ringger is joined by Beck's Dealer Manager, Tim Newcomb. With 22 years of Beck's experience under his belt, Tim has learned a thing or two about what it means to work for a family-owned company. Listen as the guys reflect on Tim's time here, including what lead him to El Paso, Illinois, what he's doing now, and a few behind-the-scenes stories from the past two decades.

During Episode 15, David Ringger, Mike Mehringer, and Trey talk about “God Moments” – the times that He showed up during and after Trey's accident, letting him and his family know that he wasn't in this fight alone. Listen as Trey recounts the moments that are so surreal, they're almost hard to believe.

David Ringger and guest host, Mike Mehringer, are joined for Episode 14 by Trey Utrecht, Beck's Summer 2022 PFR Intern in London, OH. During their conversation, Trey opens up about the many challenges he faced after being in a car accident while on his way back to Ball State University during his freshman year. With his sight set on his D1 football career, Trey had to learn how to lean into his Faith when his world was suddenly flipped upside down.

Many people experience anxiety, but despite the commonality, there continues to be a stigma that surrounds asking for help.Carlye and David are joined for Episode 13 by Jill Burgess, wife of Beck's Training Innovation Manager, Sam Burgess. During their conversation, Jill opens up about her history with anxiety, sharing how she recognized it and how she has learned to cope with it in a way that is proactive. Although it can be scary, the first step is to talk about your thoughts and feelings with someone... don't be afraid to ask for help.

Carlye and David are joined for Episode 12 by two men that know Beck's like the back of their hand. Both with 29+ years of experience here at our Atlanta facility, Tim Whisman, Corn Seed Stock and Warehouse Space Manager, and Erich Hasler, Ag Systems and Agronomy Specialist, have seen this company grow in more ways than one. Listen as Erich and Tim breakdown what it was like working alongside Francis and Sonny, as well as getting a front row seat to watch this company grow into what it is today.

On Episode 11 of the Across The Acres Podcast, hosts Carlye Frye and David Ringger are joined by Beck's Benefits Specialist, Laura McKee, and Mike Martel from Team Rubicon. Listen to hear how Beck's annual 5K came to life and what you can expect from this year's event!

Episode 10 of the Across The Acres Podcast flips the script with guest host Mike Mehringer, Beck's Event Logistics Coordinator. Mike puts hosts Carlye Frye and David Ringger in the hot seat to hear the duo share their journey to Beck's, their inspirations, and how the Across The Acres Podcast came to be.

Episode 9 of the Across The Acres Podcast features Beck's dealer, Doug Kingseed. Tune in to hear Doug share how he uses "Messy Motivation" to connect, challenge, and inspire each day through his thriving dealership.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other listening platforms, we can't wait to see you #AcrossTheAcres!

Check out Episode 8 of Across the Acres - All You Need Is Love - to hear from Ashley and Adam Schultz. In this Valentine's Day special, the dynamic duo opens up about what brought them together, saying I Do to each other and their dream jobs at Beck's, and what their recipe for a lasting partnership looks like.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other listening platforms, we can't wait to see you #AcrossTheAcres!

Episode 7 of the Across The Acres Podcast features Minnesota native and Beck's Seed Advisor, Bjorn Peterson. Tune in to hear Bjorn share his thoughts on choosing a career in sales, his goals for personal growth, and his perspective on what the “Farmer of the Future” will look like.

Growing up on the farm and the baseball field, Seed Advisor Ryan Markley joins us this month on the Across The Acres Podcast. In Episode 6, Ryan shares how his past playing sports has led him to be competitive in the seed industry for the previous 27 years. Tune in as Ryan shares how he found himself on Beck's team, how he covers the bases in seed sales, and how he encourages others to step up to the plate.

Joining us from Teutopolis, Illinois, meet Tom and Lisa Uthell. Feeling the urge to get back to farming, Tom and Lisa established their dealership back in 2003. Tune in this month to hear from the duo about their journey to Beck's, philosophy behind customer relationships, and where they see the business going in the future. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other listening platforms, we can't wait to see you #AcrossTheAcres!

From the heart of South Dakota to the eastern border of Ohio, from central Minnesota to the fields of Mississippi, David Ringger and Carlye Frye travel throughout our marketing area to highlight the stories of Beck's family of employees, dealers, and farmers. Every month, we sit down and chat with a member of our Beck's family of employees, dealers, and farmers to learn more about their career, their family, and their faith.When your glass may only feel half empty, how do you react? In Episode 4 of Across The Acres, Area Team Leader Reid Nodine joins us from the great state of Missouri. Reid shares his wisdom on young leadership, his glass-half-full mentality, why he learned to iron his clothes, and his journey to Beck's. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other listening platforms, we can't wait to see you #AcrossTheAcres!

From the heart of South Dakota to the eastern border of Ohio, from central Minnesota to the fields of Mississippi, David Ringger and Carlye Frye travel throughout our marketing area to highlight the stories of Beck's family of employees, dealers, and farmers. Every month, we sit down and chat with a member of our Beck's family of employees, dealers, and farmers to learn more about their careers, their family, and their faith.Seed Advisor Mike Roe joins us this month on the #AcrossTheAcres Podcast. On this episode, Mike shares how his faith and family lead him to his recent anniversary of nine years of sobriety. Join us as we hear how the Minnesota native went through “Choosing Your Hard” and his inspiring story of finding the light at the end of the tunnel.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other listening platforms, we can't wait to see you #AcrossTheAcres!

Wife. Mother. Nurse Practitioner. Pageant Queen. Life Saver. Join us for Episode 2 of Across The Acres to hear from Beck's Nurse Practitioner Kristin Moon on her family, her pageant experience, and other life-changing experiences that have fueled her passion for advocating for CPR training.

Kicking off the first episode of Across The Acres, Licensing Lead Corey Beck joins us to tell his story of what life was like growing up as the fourth generation of the business.From talking sports to leaving a legacy, Corey shares his story about how growing up with the Beck family of employees ultimately shaped his decision to return to the business.Join us as we sit down with Corey to learn more about his career, family, and faith!