The Spokesman Speaks: Ag Insights for Your Farm and Family

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Since 1934, The Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman has been Iowa’s leading agriculture news source, and today it has the largest readership of any ag newspaper in Iowa. While The Spokesman newspaper is available exclusively to Iowa Farm Bureau members, The Spokesman Speaks podcast is available publicly, providing the ag news and farmer education that matter most.

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    • Apr 28, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 28m AVG DURATION
    • 188 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Spokesman Speaks: Ag Insights for Your Farm and Family

    “In the weeds” analysis of herbicide rules and the farm economy

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 33:51


    Welcome to Episode 187 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Iowa State University Extension weed specialist Dr. Wesley Everman helps farmers navigate changing herbicide requirements, and economist Dr. John Newton offers his thoughts on the current farm economy.   Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Contact ISU Extension weed specialist Wesley Everman. See more economic analysis from Terrain. Register for one of Iowa Farm Bureau's upcoming Take Root farm succession workshops. Sign up for Iowa Farm Bureau's 2025 Young Farmer Ag Insights Tour.

    What's next for U.S. ag policy? A conversation with President Brent Johnson

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 41:38


    Welcome to Episode 186 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson shares recent policy conversations he has had with new U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and national lawmakers. And Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses Iowa's conservation and water quality progress ahead of Earth Day.   Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Learn about USDA's Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP). Visit ConservationCountsIowa.com to learn about Iowa's conservation and water quality progress. Try the new N-Fact calculator to help you determine your best nitrogen fertilizer application rates. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's 2025 Young Farmer Ag Insights Tour.

    A planting forecast and a roadmap for farm succession planning

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 35:34


    Welcome to Episode 185 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Iowa's State Climatologist, Dr. Justin Glisan, reveals his weather outlook for spring planting and beyond. Later, Amanda Van Steenwyk (who leads Iowa Farm Bureau's farm succession planning program, Take Root) and farm succession planning attorney Erin Herbold-Swalwell share their tips for successfully transitioning the family farm from one generation to the next. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Register for Dr. Justin Glisan's free “growing season weather outlook” webinar on April 10. Learn more about the Iowa Department of Agriculture's Climatology Bureau and contact State Climatologist Dr. Justin Glisan directly. Learn more about Iowa Farm Bureau's Take Root farm succession program and watch for new workshops this summer.

    The future of the global ag economy

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2025 48:09


    Welcome to Episode 184 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Iowa Farm Bureau's Dr. Christopher Pudenz and Zach Brummer share their outlook for crop and livestock markets, and Todd Thurman (an ag futurist and swine consultant with 25 years of international agriculture experience) predicts the future of the global ag economy. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's April 1 “Livestock Risk Protection” webinar. Watch Todd Thurman's webinar predicting the future of the global ag economy. Use these farm facts and conservation infographics/videos/stats to help celebrate Ag Week in Iowa.

    Optimize your crop insurance coverage and fertilizer application in 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2025 27:26


    Welcome to Episode 183 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Farm Bureau Financial Services regional crop consultant Angie Horn walks farmers through their crop insurance options, and Melissa Miller of the Iowa Nitrogen Initiative shares a new online tool to help farmers calculate their optimum nitrogen application rates. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Watch our recorded webinar with Farm Bureau Financial Services to learn more about your crop insurance options. Learn more about the Iowa Nitrogen Initiative and N-FACT in our recent Spokesman article.   Use the new N-FACT calculator to help you determine your optimum nitrogen application rates.  

    How @IowaDairyFarmer (Dan Venteicher) reaches millions on social media

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2025 39:08


    Welcome to Episode 182 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we speak with three Iowa farmers who are carving unique paths in agriculture: Meredith Nunnikhoven, who runs a farm and floristry business in Mahaska County, called Barnswallow Flowers. Lillie Beringer-Crock, who sells her family's beef and a variety of other locally-produced goods online and in-person, through her business, Beringer Family Farms in Jones County. And Dan Venteicher, an eastern Iowa farmer who's better known by his roughly 2.5 million followers across TikTok, Facebook and Instagram as the “Iowa Dairy Farmer.”

    AI, technology and the future of farming

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 45:08


    Welcome to Episode 181 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, futurist Jack Uldrich and Iowa State University ag innovation professor Matt Darr share their thoughts on artificial intelligence (AI), technology and the future of farming. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Learn more about the Digital Ag Innovation Lab at Iowa State University. Learn about ISU Extension's new digital agriculture specialist, Doug Houser. Contact information for Doug Houser See ISU's Planter University locations in early February. Learn more about upcoming Iowa Farm Bureau events and webinars.

    State legislative priorities and two new programs for livestock farmers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2025 31:46


    Welcome to Episode 180 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we share Iowa Farm Bureau's priorities for the 2025 state legislative session, a new program that helps aspiring and beginning farmers get started with livestock, and a new program to help address the critical shortage of veterinarians in rural Iowa.  Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Contact your county Farm Bureau. Read more about Iowa Farm Bureau's 2025 state legislative priorities. Learn more about the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers' new Building Your Livestock Legacy Program. Learn more about Iowa Farm Bureau's new Rural Veterinarian Loan Repayment Incentive Program. Learn about more scholarships and grants through Iowa Farm Bureau.

    How to overcome adversity in 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2025 39:32


    Welcome to Episode 179 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson discusses agriculture's challenges and opportunities in 2025, and motivational speaker John O'Leary shares the inspiring story of how he overcame seemingly impossible odds (surviving burns on 100% of his body, when doctors gave him a 1% chance of living). No matter what obstacles you're facing in 2025, John O'Leary has helpful advice for you. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Ag Market Outlook Meeting Series in February. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Acres of Opportunity Conference, February 15 in Cedar Falls. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's “How to Write a Pre-Harvest Marketing Plan” webinar, January 16. See other upcoming Iowa Farm Bureau events and webinars. Learn more from motivational speaker John O'Leary at JohnOLearyInspires.com.

    Prepare for 2025: Economic insights and national policy priorities

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2024 24:10


    Welcome to Episode 178 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, economist and Vice President of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dr. Jason Henderson analyzes the current macro economy and offers farmers insights for 2025. Later in the episode, American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall shares agriculture's national policy priorities for 2025 and explains why farmers can advocate for themselves more effectively through Farm Bureau. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Contact your local county Farm Bureau.

    Three up-and-coming farm leaders: Part 3, James Hepp

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2024 23:30


    Welcome to Episode 177 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast, which is also Part 3 of our special three-part series with three farmers who are receiving Iowa Farm Bureau's 2024 Young Farmer Leadership Award: Nate Hofmann of Linn County, Kaitlyn Porter of Franklin County, and James Hepp of Calhoun County. Part 1 (released December 2) features Nate Hofmann. Part 2 (released December 5) features Kaitlyn Porter. Part 3 (released December 9) features James Hepp. Register to join farmers like Nate, Kaitlyn and James at Iowa Farm Bureau's 2025 Young Farmer Conference, January 17 and 18 in Des Moines!

    Three up-and-coming farm leaders: Part 2, Kaitlyn Porter

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2024 23:25


    Welcome to Episode 176 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast, which is also Part 2 of our special three-part series with three farmers who are receiving Iowa Farm Bureau's 2024 Young Farmer Leadership Award: Nate Hofmann of Linn County, Kaitlyn Porter of Franklin County, and James Hepp of Calhoun County. Part 1 (released December 2) features Nate Hofmann. Part 2 (released December 5) features Kaitlyn Porter. Part 3 (released December 9) features James Hepp. Register to join farmers like Nate, Kaitlyn and James at Iowa Farm Bureau's 2025 Young Farmer Conference, January 17 and 18 in Des Moines!

    Three up-and-coming farm leaders: Part 1, Nate Hofmann

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2024 22:42


    Welcome to Episode 175 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast, which is also Part 1 of our special three-part series with three farmers who are receiving Iowa Farm Bureau's 2024 Young Farmer Leadership Award: Nate Hofmann of Linn County, Kaitlyn Porter of Franklin County, and James Hepp of Calhoun County. Part 1 (released December 2) features Nate Hofmann. Part 2 (released December 5) features Kaitlyn Porter. Part 3 (released December 9) features James Hepp. Register to join farmers like Nate, Kaitlyn and James at Iowa Farm Bureau's 2025 Young Farmer Conference, January 17 and 18 in Des Moines!

    Navigating your farm income taxes and exploring Europe's climate policies

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2024 32:32


    Welcome to Episode 174 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, the director of Iowa State University's Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation offers farmers tips for strategically managing their income taxes and reminds farmers of a new federal law with costly consequences. Later in the episode, Iowa Farm Bureau economist Dr. Christopher Pudenz discusses the impacts of European climate regulations and offers Iowa farmers a chance to study those impacts firsthand, as participants in a 2025 Market Study Tour of Brussels and the Netherlands. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's 2024 Iowa Farm Income Tax Webinar (Nov. 18) or view the recording. Avoid steep fines and other penalties by filing your farm's beneficial ownership information (BOI) with the U.S. Treasury Department by Jan. 1, 2025.  To learn more about this requirement, visit calt.iastate.edu or fincen.gov. Apply for Iowa Farm Bureau's 2025 Market Study Tour of Brussels and the Netherlands. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Annual Meeting and County Leadership Conference.

    Farm marketing and branding tips, from an award-winning marketing agency

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2024 41:18


    Welcome to Episode 173 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we cover the wide range of programs and services Iowa Farm Bureau offers farmers and rural entrepreneurs who want to diversify their businesses or take them to the next level. We also share some helpful tips farms and small ag businesses can use to create their own standout brands and marketing strategies, from an award-winning marketing agency. Finally, we discuss the Farm Bureau Health Plan, a great choice for Iowans who need an affordable alternative to costly individual health coverage.   Resources Mentioned in this Episode Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's four-day Marketing + Branding Workshop Series, Nov. 13 – 14 and Dec. 4 – 5 in West Des Moines. Learn about Iowa Farm Bureau's Grow Your Future Award. Learn about the most recent (March 2024) Acres of Opportunity Conference – an agenda for next year's conference will be available in early 2025. Learn about Iowa Farm Bureau's Young Farmer Program and the Young Farmer Conference. Learn about Renew Rural Iowa, including free, half-day sessions for rural entrepreneurs in Manchester (Nov. 19) and Montrose (Dec. 13). Learn more about the Farm Bureau Health Plan.

    Important reminders for livestock farmers and a conversation with young farm leader Zac Preston

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2024 26:17


    Welcome to Episode 172 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Brian Waddingham of the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers shares timely reminders for livestock farmers who may face DNR or EPA inspections. Later in the episode, we chat with Zac Preston, a young farmer from Warren County who's helping create opportunities for his peers across the state, as chair of Iowa Farm Bureau's Young Farmer Advisory Committee. Resources mentioned in this episode: •    Contact the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers by calling 800-932-2436 or visiting SupportFarmers.com.   •    Save the date for Iowa Farm Bureau's 2025 Young Farmer Conference: January 17 – 18, 2025. Registration will open in early December. You can follow updates from the Young Farmer Program via their webpage (IowaFarmBureau.com/YoungFarmers), their Facebook page, and their Instagram page.  

    Tips from Iowa's 2024 Conservation Farmers of the Year

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2024 26:51


    Welcome to Episode 171 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Story County brothers Jason and John Maxwell share the journey that led to them becoming Iowa's 2024 Conservation Farmers of the Year. Later in the episode, Iowa State University Extension behavioral health expert Dr. David Brown reminds farmers of steps they should take to care for their mental health needs during the stressful harvest season.  Resources mentioned in this episode: Read more about 2024 Iowa Conservation Farmer of the Year award winners John and Jason Maxwell. Learn more about Iowa's conservation progress at ConservationCountsIowa.com. Iowa Concern website and hotline. Farm stress resources, including free, one-on-one, ongoing counseling for Iowa farm families, through Personal Assistance Services.

    Iowa's new low-cost fertilizer, a locally produced solution

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2024 35:39


    Welcome to Episode 170 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Spokesman reporter Bob Bjoin sits down with Hiro Iwanaga, CEO and co-founder of Talus Renewables, to discuss modular green ammonia systems that could reduce fertilizer costs for Iowa's farmers. These systems are designed to provide locally produced, low-cost fertilizer with a reduced environmental footprint. We also speak with American Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch about the latest USDA farm income forecast and strategies farmers can adopt in today's challenging economy. Resources mentioned in this episode: Learn more about the modular green ammonia systems offered by Talus Renewables and Landus. American Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch assesses the drop in U.S. net farm income. Crop marketing and risk management tips from Iowa Farm Bureau Farmer Education Program Manager Zach Brummer. Iowa Farm Bureau's farm stress management resources for farmers, including a live webinar on September 23. Iowa Farm Bureau's “How to write a post-harvest marketing plan” webinar on November 7. Iowa Farm Bureau's 2024 Iowa Farm Income Tax Webinar on November 18.

    Crop marketing and risk management tips for harvest season

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2024 24:01


    Welcome to Episode 169 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we share some crop marketing and risk management tips for farmers to apply in this challenging ag economy. We also introduce you to Brandon Myers, a former Iowa Hawkeye and NFL star who is the newest addition to the ANF (America Needs Farmers) Wall of Honor at Kinnick Stadium. Resources mentioned in this episode: Iowa Farm Bureau's Cash Bid Search Tool Upcoming farm stress webinar: Successful Self-Care in a Challenging Ag Economy Farm stress resources, including free, one-on-one counseling for Iowa's farm families Contact Iowa Farm Bureau Farmer Education Program Manager Zach Brummer at zbrummer@ifbf.org Learn more about ANF Wall of Honor inductee Brandon Myers, the ANF Game Day On-Field Experience, and ANF Game Day at Kinnick Stadium

    Iowa Farm Bureau President assesses the farm economy, calls for a new Farm Bill

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2024 26:11


    Welcome to Episode 168 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we discuss highlights from the 2024 Iowa Farm Bureau Food and Farm Index ®, a survey of Iowa grocery shoppers (by the Harris Poll) about factors influencing their grocery purchases, their feelings about real meat and dairy, and who they trust for information about the nutrition and safety of their food. We also sit down with Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johson to discuss the state of the farm economy and the urgent need to pass a new Farm Bill. Resources Mentioned in This Episode See more highlights from the 2024 Iowa Farm Bureau Food and Farm Index®.

    How to sell pork in California by complying with Prop 12

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2024 29:42


    Welcome to Episode 167 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we talk with the co-founder and CEO of Distynct, an ag tech company that's turning traditional livestock alarms into smart alarms. Then we visit with Marshall County farmer and Cloverleaf Animal Welfare Systems COO Jamee Eggers about how Iowa hog farmers can comply with the requirements of California's Proposition 12, in order to sell pork in that state. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Learn more about Distynct smart alarms for livestock facilities. Learn more about Cloverleaf Animal Welfare Systems (a company that offers Prop 12 compliance certification). See what Iowa Farm Bureau is offering Iowa State Fair visitors.

    New study: Agriculture's economic impact is growing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2024 33:50


    Welcome to Episode 166 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we discuss new research on the evolution of Iowa farms and agriculture's contribution to Iowa's jobs and the overall economy, with Iowa Farm Bureau economist Dr. Christopher Pudenz and Brian Waddingham of the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers. Resources Mentioned in This Episode 2024 Iowa Agriculture Economic Contribution Study RSVP for the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers 20th anniversary reception at the Iowa State Fair Iowa Farm Bureau's Top 10 Farm and Ag Facts Recordings from Iowa Farm Bureau's 2024 Economic Summit Iowa Farm Bureau's Cash Bid Search Tool The Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman Subscribe for email news updates from Iowa Farm Bureau Visit Iowa Farm Bureau at the 2024 Iowa State Fair

    Disaster recovery assistance for Iowa's farmers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2024 37:53


    Welcome to Episode 165 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we share state and federal assistance available to Iowans impacted by recent severe storms, tornadoes and flooding, with a guest from the FEMA disaster response team that covers Iowa (John Mills) and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. Resources Mentioned in this Episode DisasterRecovery.Iowa.gov Iowa's new Disaster Recovery Farm Interest Program (DRFIP) Two-sheet background document on Iowa's Disaster Recovery Farm Interest Program (DRFIP) Iowa Disaster Agriculture Resource Guide FEMA's national website (DisasterAssistance.gov) and hotline: 1-800-621-3362 Preparing for natural disasters (Ready.gov) Disaster resources through Iowa State University Extension

    Insights from geopolitical insider Frank Kelly and grain marketing expert Ed Usset

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2024 40:34


    Welcome to Episode 164 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Washington D.C. insider Frank Kelly shares geopolitical factors farmers should consider as they eye agriculture's future. And Ed Usset, a grain marketing economist from the University of Minnesota, offers his strategic grain marketing recommendations for farmers. Resources mentioned in this episode  See slides from Frank Kelly's presentation at Iowa Farm Bureau's Economic Summit.  Learn more from Ed Usset and the University of Minnesota's Center for Farm Financial Management. You can purchase Ed's book, "Grain Marketing is Simple (It's just not easy)" here.  Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's economic outlook webinar. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's "Take Root" farm succession seminar, July 25 in Johnston. 

    VP of ISU Extension dissects Iowa's ag economy, shares keys for future economic success

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2024 40:58


    Welcome to Episode 163 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Vice President of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dr. Jason Henderson analyzes Iowa's current ag economy and explores keys he sees for future economic success. And young Iowa farmer Hans Riensche shares what he hopes to learn about transitioning farms to future generations sustainably, through an international study program.   Resources mentioned in this episode: Learn more about the Nuffield Scholar program and Hans Riensche. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's “Take Root” farm succession seminar, July 25 in Johnston. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's 2024 Young Farmer Ag Insights Tour.

    Meet ISU Extension's new ag climatologist

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2024 25:29


    Welcome to Episode 162 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Madelynn Wuestenberg, an Iowa native and recent master's graduate in Agricultural Meteorology from Iowa State University, speaks with us about her new role as the Agricultural Climatology Specialist for ISU Extension. Then Iowa Farm Bureau's Farmer Education Program Manager offers a sneak peek of our upcoming Young Farmer Ag Insights Tour, which will include stops at unique ag sites across western Iowa & Nebraska.  If you're a young Iowa farmer, ages 21-40, register by June 30 to secure your spot. Resources mentioned in this episode: Learn more about Iowa Farm Bureau's Young Farmer Ag Insights Tour.

    Greenhouse gases: Agriculture's untold story

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2024 26:01


    Welcome to Episode 161 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. By now, we're all pretty familiar with the inaccurate greenhouse gas (GHG) accusations against agriculture. In this episode, American Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch shares the other (less publicized) side of the story, using recently released GHG data from EPA. Also in this episode, Iowa Farm Bureau national policy advisor Daniel Heady updates us on negotiations for a new Farm Bill. Resources mentioned in this episode: Read economist Danny Munch's analysis of agriculture's GHG emissions. Top 10 Iowa farm facts , including environmental progress Register now for Iowa Farm Bureau's Young Farmer Ag Insights Tour.

    How ‘Choose Iowa' helps farmers add value and save labor, while encouraging Iowans to buy local

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2024 35:16


    Welcome to Episode 160 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we hear from Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and Beth Romer about Choose Iowa, a program through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship that provides value-added grants to farmers and markets Iowa-grown products to consumers. We also visit with Iowa Farm Bureau economist Dr. Christopher Pudenz about Farm Bureau's upcoming Economic Summit.  Resources mentioned in this episode: ChooseIowa.com  Register now for Iowa Farm Bureau's Economic Summit

    State Climatologist shares a growing season forecast

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2024 35:28


    Welcome to Episode 159 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, State Climatologist Dr. Justin Glisan offers his forecast for the 2024 growing season. And Brian Waddingham shares how the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers has been helping farm families raise livestock responsibly and successfully for the past 20 years. Resources mentioned in this episode:  Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Climatology Bureau Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers website Iowa Farm Bureau's 2024 Economic Summit

    ‘Boots on the ground' analysis of California's Prop 12 and Iowa's water quality progress

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2024 43:49


    Welcome to Episode 158 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Dr. Christopher Pudenz shares insights from the Iowa Farm Bureau's recent Market Study Tour of California. With 22 Iowa Farm Bureau members in tow, the journey offered firsthand observations and discussions on navigating California's Proposition 12 regulations. Also in this episode, Shawn Richmond (an environmental scientist with nearly three decades of experience) demonstrates the growing momentum behind Iowa's conservation initiatives. Resources mentioned in this episode: Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Economic Summit on June 14. Visit ConservationCountsIowa.com to learn more about Iowa's conservation and water quality progress.

    A 'must-attend' Economic Summit for farmers

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2024 32:13


    Welcome to Episode 157 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we delve into the heart of agriculture's economic challenges and opportunities with Dr. Christopher Pudenz, who previews Iowa Farm Bureau's much anticipated Economic Summit. Also joining us is Elaine Froese. Known as "Canada's farm whisperer," Froese shares her invaluable experience helping farm families enhance their communication and conflict resolution skills. Resources mentioned in this episode: Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Economic Summit on June 14. Visit Elaine Froese's website for additional resources. Plan for your farm's future with help from Iowa Farm Bureau's Take Root program. This program is managed Amanda Van Steenwyk: avansteenwyk@ifbf.org. 

    Build trust like FBI spy recruiter Robin Dreeke

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2024 32:42


    Welcome to Episode 156 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Robin Dreeke (a former FBI special agent and expert in spy recruitment) shares his insights into building trust, a critical skill for farmers and other ag advocates.    Resources mentioned in this episode: Learn more about former FBI spy recruiter Robin Dreeke and subscribe to his “Forged by Trust” podcast.

    Talking trade with Iowa native, USDA Under Secretary Alexis Taylor

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2024 27:44


    Welcome to Episode 155 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Iowa's own Alexis Taylor, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, for a deep dive into the future of trade and agricultural exports. Then David Newman of the National Pork Board explores innovative strategies for promoting pork consumption among modern consumers. Whether you're a farmer looking to expand your market horizons or simply interested in the latest trends in agriculture and food consumption, this episode offers valuable insights and forecasts that you won't want to miss.   Resources mentioned in this episode: Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Acres of Opportunity Conference today.

    Navigating ag market drivers and national policy priorities

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2024 27:01


    Welcome to Episode 154 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, American Farm Bureau economist Betty Resnick sheds light on key market drivers, obstacles in trade, and exciting opportunities for renewable fuels. Then Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson joins the conversation to preview some potential national policy breakthroughs in 2024!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Acres of Opportunity Conference today. Learn more about online tools and services through the Farm Family Wellness Alliance.

    2024 crop and livestock market outlook

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2024 18:07


    Welcome to Episode 153 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Iowa Farm Bureau farmer education program manager Zach Brummer and economist Dr. Christopher Pudenz dissect current crop and livestock market conditions and forecast what farmers can expect later this year.   Resources mentioned in this episode: Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's February Ag Market Outlook Meeting Series. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's February 6 crop insurance webinar.

    How an Iowa engineer/firefighter created a mobile fire suppression unit for farmers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2024 29:53


    Welcome to Episode 152 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we preview Iowa Farm Bureau's priorities for the 2024 Iowa legislative session. And we learn how Mark Mendick (a young engineer and volunteer firefighter from a town near the Iowa-Missouri border) created a unique fire suppression solution for farmers.  Resources mentioned in this episode: Learn more about Appanoose Manufactured Products. Visit the Appanoose Manufactured Products website. Follow Iowa Farm Bureau on Facebook, X/Twitter and Instagram for updates on the American Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Ag Market Outlook Meeting Series. Apply for an Iowa Farm Bureau scholarship. Learn how to caucus using Iowa Farm Bureau's Farmers Caucus site.

    Resolve to stop complaining (and improve your mental health) in 2024

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2024 22:18


    Welcome to Episode 151 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, internationally acclaimed speaker Will Bowen shares his advice for turning complaints into constructive conversation – and improving our mental health. And America Farm Bureau Director of Government Affairs R.J. Layher provides an update on national policy priorities.   Resources mentioned in this episode: Prepare for the Iowa caucuses with Iowa Farm Bureau's Farmers Caucus guide

    Farm strategies for navigating economic uncertainty

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2023 34:17


    Welcome to Episode 150 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, agricultural economist David Widmar shares four key economic trends for farmers to keep their eyes on, and he presents strategies to help farmers navigate economic uncertainty. Later in the episode, renowned Iowa livestock attorney Eldon McAfee shares changes in state regulations that may impact livestock farmers.   Resources mentioned in this episode: Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Take Root farm succession workshops Contact the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers for assistance with your livestock questions Apply for one of Iowa Farm Bureau's scholarships Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Young Farmer Conference

    Three rising stars in Iowa agriculture: Part 3, Ryan Gibbs

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2023 20:08


    Welcome to Episode 149 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast, which is also Part 3 of our special 3-part podcast series with three farmers who are receiving Iowa Farm Bureau's 2023 Young Farmer Leadership Award: Josh Bierbaum of Cass County, Matthew Burt of Marshall County, and Ryan Gibbs of Delaware County. Part 1 (released December 4) features Josh Bierbaum. Part 2 (released December 5) features Matthew Burt. Part 3 (released December 6) features Ryan Gibbs.

    Three rising stars in Iowa agriculture: Part 2, Matthew Burt

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2023 19:42


    Welcome to Episode 148 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast, which is also Part 2 of our special 3-part podcast series with three farmers who are receiving Iowa Farm Bureau's 2023 Young Farmer Leadership Award: Josh Bierbaum of Cass County, Matthew Burt of Marshall County, and Ryan Gibbs of Delaware County. Part 1 (released December 4) features Josh Bierbaum. Part 2 (released December 5) features Matthew Burt. Part 3 (to be released December 6) features Ryan Gibbs.

    Three rising stars in Iowa agriculture: Part 1, Josh Bierbaum

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2023 19:05


    Welcome to Episode 147 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast, which is also Part 1 of our special 3-part podcast series with three farmers who are receiving Iowa Farm Bureau's 2023 Young Farmer Leadership Award: Josh Bierbaum of Cass County, Matthew Burt of Marshall County, and Ryan Gibbs of Delaware County. Part 1 (released December 4) features Josh Bierbaum. Part 2 (to be released December 5) features Matthew Burt. Part 3 (to be released December 6) features Ryan Gibbs.

    See behind the Prop 12 curtain and hear a winter weather forecast

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2023 32:46


    Welcome to Episode 146 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we peek behind the curtain of California's Proposition 12 law, with Iowa Farm Bureau economist Dr. Christopher Pudenz. And Dr. Dennis Todey (Director of USDA's Midwest Climate Hub) shares his winter weather forecast for Iowa. Resource mentioned in this episode: Learn more about Iowa Farm Bureau's Market Study Tour to California and apply for join the tour.

    Creating the next “moonshot” advancement in global ag production: a conversation with Dr. Cary Fowler of the U.S. Department of State

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2023 27:43


    Welcome to Episode 145 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we talk with the U.S. Department of State's Special Envoy for Global Food Security about what it will take to meet global food needs in 2050. The episode also includes a discussion about how farmers can save thousands of dollars on their taxes, through IRS-approved tax-saving plans offered by BASE. Resources mentioned in this episode: Learn about BASE tax-saving plans available to Iowa Farm Bureau members Dr. Cary Fowler, Special Envoy for Global Food Security with the U.S. Department of State Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Farm/Ag Business Marketing + Branding Workshop Series

    The impact of record-low Mississippi River levels and a conversation with young farm leader Vanessa Trampel

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2023 33:15


    Welcome to Episode 144 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Soy Transportation Coalition Executive Director Mike Steenhoek shares the Iowa farm implications of record-low Mississippi River water levels and other avenues for farmers to market their crops. And Iowa Farm Bureau Young Farmer Advisory Committee Chair Vanessa Trampel discusses the challenges and opportunities facing young farmers today. Resources mentioned in this episode Soy Transportation Coalition website Iowa Farm Bureau's new Cash Bid Search tool Iowa Farm Bureau's Young Farmer Program webpage Young Farmer Program Facebook page Young Farmer Program regional Iowa Facebook groups Young Farmer Program Instagram page

    A first-of-its-kind tool to compare local cash bids and a Farm Bill status update

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2023 27:08


    Welcome to Episode 143 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. This episode explores a new tool that allows farmers to easily search and compare the best cash bids for grain in their area. It also features a Farm Bill update, from Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson.

    Near-death experience inspires Iowa student to pursue innovative cattle research

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2023 31:39


    Welcome to Episode 142 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. This episode features cybersecurity tips for farmers and the story of an Iowa student who was inspired to pursue innovative cattle research following a near-death experience on her family's farm.   Resource mentioned in this episode: Iowa's Jasmyn Hoeger named a finalist for National FFA's American Star in Agriscience award

    Farmer/counselor shares tips for managing stress during a busy harvest

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2023 31:08


    Welcome to Episode 141 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. This episode will help prepare farmers for the beginning of the busy and often stressful harvest season. Adrienne DeSutter is an Illinois farmer, a counselor, and a nationally-recognized Ag Mental Health Specialist (through Sow Hope Grow Hope). She joins The Spokesman Speaks podcast to share her thoughts on how farmers and their families can effectively manage stress this time of year.  Resources mentioned in this episode: Farm stress resources on IowaFarmBureau.com ANF Game Day On-Field Experience Upcoming Renew Rural Iowa Journey to Your Vision seminars

    How Farm Rescue helps farm families in crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2023 17:50


    Welcome to Episode 140 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. This episode features Farm Rescue, a nonprofit organization that provides on-farm assistance to farm families who have experienced a major injury, illness or natural disaster. Farm Rescue Development Officer Terry Johnston and Iowa volunteer Ron Donohue share Farm Rescue's work and how Iowans can support it. Resources mentioned in this episode: Iowa Farm Bureau donates $10,000 to Farm Rescue Learn how to donate, volunteer or refer a family in need at FarmRescue.org Email Farm Rescue Development Officer Terry Johnston: terry@farmrescue.org

    How Iowa Farm Bureau supports an innovative water treatment company and other diverse rural businesses

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2023 34:55


    Welcome to Episode 139 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. This episodes highlights Iowa Farm Bureau's work to support diverse rural businesses, including a Slater, Iowa-based company that uses algae to treat water for cities. The episode also includes a conversation with Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig about Iowa's Grain Indemnity Fund, which Iowa will begin replenishing on September 1. Resources mentioned in this episode: RenewRuralIowa.com and Renew Rural Iowa's upcoming Journey to Your Vision seminars Gross-Wen Technologies website Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship website

    Mid-summer market and crop conditions analyses

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2023 42:53


    Welcome to Episode 138 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. This episode features a mid-summer market analysis by Karl Setzer of Mid-Co Commodities and a crop conditions update from Bayer Crop Science agronomist Andrew Penney.   Resources mentioned in this episode: July WASDE and quarterly stocks webinar recording Reasons to visit Iowa Farm Bureau at the Iowa State Fair Register for upcoming Renew Rural Iowa Journey to Your Vision seminars in Waverly, West Des Moines and Storm Lake Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's online Take Root farm succession workshops Register for an upcoming webinar on navigating changing conditions in agriculture

    Brexit regret, trade objections, intense regulations and other takeaways from Iowa Farm Bureau's Market Study Tour of the United Kingdom

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2023 33:24


    Welcome to Episode 137 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we recap the key takeaways from Iowa Farm Bureau's recent Market Study Tour of England and Scotland, and we discuss the possible implications for farmers here in Iowa.

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