Podcasts about ag education

Each year the Illinois Corn Marketing Board utilizes check-off funding to host several communications interns that are pursuing careers in agriculture. In this Managing for Profit, Lydia Rogers, former IL Corn intern, discusses her experience in the organization and why it's an important step in building the industry. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the SwineTime Podcast, host Dr. Spencer Wayne is joined by Dr. Bob Thaler of South Dakota State University (SDSU) and President of Pipestone Service, Hannah Walkes, for an in-depth discussion on the future of higher education in agriculture and what it means for the next generation of ag professionals.With nearly 40 years of experience in animal science, extension, and agricultural education, Dr. Thaler shares how universities have evolved—and where they must go next. The conversation explores how student expectations, work ethic, and learning styles have shifted over time, especially in the wake of digital learning and post-COVID changes. While online tools and technology have created new opportunities, the group emphasizes that hands-on, in-person learning remains critical, particularly in livestock production and swine management.A major theme of the episode is how SDSU stands out among land-grant universities. From state-of-the-art swine facilities to strong partnerships with organizations like Pipestone and commodity groups, SDSU continues to invest heavily in creating real-world learning environments. The discussion highlights how these investments directly impact student success, workforce readiness, and agricultural innovation.The episode also dives into agriculture careers beyond the farm, showcasing the wide range of opportunities available today—from production and veterinary medicine to business management, engineering, HR, and precision agriculture. With the rapid growth of precision livestock farming and ag technology, preparing students with both technical and leadership skills is more important than ever.For farmers, parents, and students, Dr. Thaler offers practical advice on education pathways. He stresses the importance of getting off the farm for education or training, whether through a two-year technical program or a four-year university degree, to gain new perspectives and skills needed to manage modern, complex agricultural businesses.As Dr. Thaler approaches retirement, he leaves listeners with powerful reflections on leadership, mentorship, gratitude, and purpose, reminding us that developing people—not just production systems—is the key to a sustainable future in agriculture.

Emma shares her journey from growing up in Temple, Texas, to building a career in the cattle industry through hands-on experience in cow-calf operations, livestock breeding programs in Australia, cattle IVF, animal nutrition, and data management. Along the way, she discovered a passion for helping consumers better understand where their food comes from and the realities of modern agriculture. That mission led to the creation of Double E Ranch Advocacy in 2021, a platform focused on bridging the gap between consumers and cattle country through authentic storytelling, education, and digital media. In this conversation, we discuss: What inspired Emma to pursue agriculture as a first-generation rancher Why she launched Double E Ranch Advocacy How social media has changed ag education The challenges of explaining complex ag topics to non-farm audiences The importance of transparency in the beef industry Virtual farm tours and interactive agriculture education tools Her educational projects, including commodity maps and RanchWorthy The future of multimedia content in agriculture How The Bridge Podcast connects urban and rural communities The role of storytelling in building trust with consumers Public speaking, advocacy, and representing agriculture at industry events Her experience with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and the Masters of Beef Advocacy Trailblazer Cohort Emma also discusses the growing need for agriculture to proactively communicate with consumers instead of waiting for misinformation to shape public opinion. From social media videos to educational resources and live events, she explains how modern advocacy can help reconnect people with the realities of food production and cattle ranching. This episode is packed with insight for ranchers, ag communicators, and anyone passionate about the future of agriculture education and consumer trust. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/Farm4Profit Media is not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. Content is provided for informational purposes only, and we serve solely as a platform for third-party opinions. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Illinois Corn Marketing Board continues to utilize corn checkoff dollars to support the mission of the Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom program to bring ag to students. In this Managing for Profit, Kevin Daugherty, director of Illinois Ag in the Classroom, discusses the importance of this effort.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Each year, the Wisconsin Association of Fairs awards Bob Williams Fair Ag Grants. The $1,000 grants are used by fairs to promote Wisconsin agriculture on their grounds. Jenny Hesse, the Fair Manager at the Kenosha County Fairs, tells us about the simplicity of the application process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rusty Halvorson and Sarah Heinrich shares some of the week's top stories in agriculture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nitrogen Management, Ag Education, Cattle Markets, Weather, Irrigation Water Management

The latest AgNet News Hour Podcast delivers another packed episode with Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and “Sir” Josh McGill, bringing listeners a wide-ranging discussion on agriculture, business, education, water policy, and crop protection. From inspiring entrepreneurship stories to the future of ag education and emerging orchard threats, this episode highlights the voices shaping agriculture across California. If you want to stay informed about the issues affecting farmers, ranchers, and the broader ag industry, this episode is one you won't want to miss. Entrepreneurship Lessons from Pappy's Seasoning The show begins with the final segment of a fascinating interview with Eddie Papulias, owner of Pappy's Choice Seasoning and Pappy Fine Foods. Papulias shares his journey from building a small family operation into a nationally recognized seasoning brand found in kitchens across the country. During the conversation with the Ag Meter, Papulias offers practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to launch their own food products. He explains that while starting a business is still possible today, the process has become much more complex due to regulations, insurance requirements, and rising operational costs. Papulias encourages new entrepreneurs to consider working with co-packers, manufacturers who produce products for emerging brands. This approach allows startups to bring family recipes or unique products to market without the heavy investment required to build their own manufacturing facility. His story highlights the perseverance required to build a successful business—and why maintaining strong family values and faith helped guide his company through decades of growth. Ag in the Classroom: Educating the Next Generation The episode also features an important conversation with Amanda Fletcher, Executive Director of the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom. Fletcher discusses the organization's mission to connect students with agriculture and help them understand where their food comes from. Through curriculum resources and educational programs, the foundation now reaches approximately 1.3 million students across California each year. One of the organization's biggest upcoming initiatives is Virtual Farm Day on March 18, a live online learning event that takes students on a virtual journey through the farm-to-school process. The program will highlight produce operations, beef production, and school food service programs to show how food travels from the field to students' lunch trays. Fletcher also explains how agriculture offers a wide range of career opportunities—from technology and communications to engineering and mechanics—many of which students may not realize exist within the industry. Water History and the Central Valley Project The Ag Meter also previews an upcoming discussion with GeoffreyVanden Heuvel, who dives into the history of California water infrastructure and the development of the Central Valley Project. This massive project, launched in the early 1900s, included the construction of major dams, pumping stations, and hundreds of miles of canals designed to deliver water to California's Central Valley farms. The upcoming conversation promises a deeper look at how California's water system began and how water policy continues to impact agriculture today. Almond Growers Monitor Red Leaf Blotch The episode wraps up with Todd Burkdoll of Valent USA, who joins the “Growing Edge” segment to discuss the spread of almond red leaf blotch across the Central Valley. This fungal disease infects almond leaves during spring, causing orange-colored spots and potentially leading to significant defoliation if left untreated. Burkdoll explains that early monitoring, winter sanitation practices, and timely fungicide applications are critical for protecting orchard health. For growers across the valley, staying ahead of this disease is essential for maintaining long-term productivity. Listen to the Full AgNet News Hour Podcast From business success stories to ag education initiatives and critical crop protection updates, this episode of the AgNet News Hour brings together important conversations from across the agricultural industry. Be sure to listen to the full podcast to hear every interview with The Ag Meter and “Sir” Josh McGill, and stay informed about the issues impacting agriculture today.

Martin County crop and livestock farmer Rochelle Krusemark serves as a director on the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council and works closely with the U.S. Meat Export Federation. She says animal agriculture is extremely important to corn and soybean growers, and to the council. And she says soil health and ag education are, too. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

During National FFA Week Feb. 21-28, 2026, members of the Gettysburg FFA Chapter were busy talking about the organization to grade school students, hosting activities and sharing their personal connections with agriculture and FFA. In this episode, hear from chapter officers Reporter Emma Baier (junior), Sentinel Bradly Vasquez (sophomore), President Bobbi Eide (senior) and Vice President Trace Genzler (senior).

Renville County, Minnesota, farmer Joe Serbus says he's learned a lot during his ten years serving on the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council. He tells Brownfieldthat leadership development and youth education are both priorities, and says there's a focus on transportation infrastructure. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Helena Agri-Enterprises Excited to Partner with Ag Education Instructors Across America

Episode 502 takes you straight to the Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth at the AgriFest in Enid—where the smell of fresh bread and cinnamon rolls is basically a tractor beam for farmers. Dave Deken and Dr. Brian Arnall sit down with Kay County wheat producer Tom Cannon, now a new Oklahoma Wheat Commission board member, to pull back the curtain on what “checkoff dollars” actually do. Tom shares the producer-side view of how funds support wheat research (better varieties, better quality, better management), expand export demand (he notes about half of Oklahoma wheat is headed overseas), and build ag literacy through hands-on education.The conversation hits home on why wheat still matters in modern rotations—especially after drought and wind reminded everyone what bare ground can do. From no-till residue and moisture protection to the “wheat + cotton” tag-team, Tom makes the case that wheat is the foundational crop that holds systems (and small towns) together. And just for fun: you'll also hear about the “drone posse” concept—proof that Oklahoma agriculture is equal parts tradition, grit, and innovation.Top 10 takeawaysOklahoma winter wheat is a cornerstone crop economically and agronomically—and it still moves the needle statewide.Checkoff dollars are meant to act like a “marketing + research engine” for producers who are busy producing.Export market development is a major lever because a huge share of wheat demand is outside the local elevator.Producer education about checkoffs matters—refund requests signal a communication gap (Tom estimates ~6–8% refunded).Wheat's residue is “soil armor” in Oklahoma—helping reduce erosion, slow evaporation, and improve water capture.No-till isn't a set-it-and-forget-it system; it rewards deeper management—and wheat often anchors that system.Wheat and cotton can complement each other well in rotation, especially when you manage residue and planting windows.Research isn't just yield—quality traits (protein management, fiber work) protect demand and create new value opportunities.Wheat success ripples through rural economies: equipment, parts, groceries, schools—everyone feels good crop years.Leadership in ag often starts the same way: somebody asks you to step up… and you decide to say yes.Timestamped Rundown00:00–00:01 — Dave opens Episode 502; Oklahoma wheat scale and value context; tees up the topic.00:01–01:52 — Intro of Brian Arnall Ph.D.; episode recorded at the Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth at KNID AgriFest (Jan. 10, 2026).02:05–04:07 — On-location banter: the bread/cinnamon roll operation, on-site oven, “follow your nose” traffic pattern.04:10–05:23 — Call-back to Tom's earlier appearance (mental health); stigma fading; “it's okay to talk.”05:47–07:52 — Tom's path to the Wheat Commission board; why producer feedback matters; “their money” must be used wisely.07:52–11:59 — What the Commission does: promote wheat locally + worldwide; support OSU research; board debate + shared intent.12:01–13:35 — Export emphasis; Tom notes ~50% of production exported; “what would markets be without it?”13:35–16:52 — Research examples: nitrogen timing/protein, quality improvements, fiber-enriched wheat; surprise: refund requests (Tom estimates ~6–8%).17:07–17:55 — Why checkoffs exist: producers aren't “marketing departments,” commissions fill that role.18:00–21:25 — Wheat acres + rotations; drought lessons; wheat residue and soil protection; no-till adoption in Kay County.21:25–24:45 — Cotton + wheat synergy; residue realities; why wheat after cotton works; harvest/header/residue discussion.24:46–26:29 — Logistics: drill “following the picker,” gin/trucking systems to clear fields fast for planting.26:29–28:49 — “Drone posse” business model; co-op fleet idea; custom work potential (moving north during fungicide season).28:53–30:06 — Public-facing work: baking events, wheat quality promotion, school coloring books/education.30:06–33:47 — Wheat's ripple effect on rural towns (dealerships, stores, services); extra cents per bushel matters locally; OSU's role.34:17–35:58 — Upcoming advocacy: Wheat Day at the Capitol, Ag Day, DC visits; educating policymakers about food production.36:00–36:51 — Wrap-up and where to connect with the show. RedDirtAgronomy.com

In this episode of the Soil Sisters Podcast, meet Dr. Ken Mix, the Director of the Small Producers Initiative and professor of Soil and Crop Science at Texas State University. Dr. Mix discusses his experience educating the next generation of farmers and the recent rollout of regenerative agriculture degree pathways at the university level. We discuss the challenges associated with off-ramping from conventional agriculture. We delve into farmers' mental health and initiatives to create supportive community networks. The conversation also touches on the newly established soil lab at Texas State University, which offers advanced soil testing services to support and enhance regenerative practices. This episode explores the intersection of education, policy, and on-the-ground agricultural practices, emphasizing the need for collaboration and community to cultivate successful farming pathways that will save family farms and ranches.  MEET OUR GUEST: DR. KEN MIX is the Director of the Small Producers Initiative (SPI) whose mission is to support small producers by providing opportunities and assistance that help build sustainable, thriving businesses while promoting environmental stewardship and long-term resilience. SPI helps program the Southern Family Farmers and Foods Systems Conference and statewide workshops on soil health and regenerative agriculture. Dr. Mix is also Professor of Soil and Crop Science at TXState University, teaching both undergraduate and graduate students while actively advancing research and education in sustainable agriculture. And he leads the Soil, Plant, and Animal Health Research Continuum Lab (SPAHRC), housed in the Department of Agricultural Sciences at Texas State University.TIME STAMPS:00:00 Welcome to the Soil Sisters Podcast00:29 Introducing Dr. Ken Mix02:13 Challenges in Regenerative Agriculture10:09 Educational Pathways in Regenerative Agriculture12:50 Economic Realities of Farming20:30 Health and Safety in Farming34:28 Historical Farming Practices36:45 Challenges of Non-GMO Cotton37:52 Regenerative Agriculture Practices38:41 Technological Impact on Farming46:33 Mental Health in Farming47:28 Community and Cooperation Among Farmers01:03:07 Introduction to the TX State University Soil Lab01:08:39 The Role of Water in Agriculture01:10:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Illinois Corn Marketing Board utilizes corn checkoff funding to partner with numerous organizations to strengthen Illinois agriculture. In this Managing for Profit, John Klemm, a central Illinois farmer and director on the Illinois Corn Marketing Board, discusses a few of these partnerships and how they benefit Illinois corn farmers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

At the end of the week the state's largest farm organization gathers together in WI Dells for their 106th convention. Jill Welke visits with the president of the WI Farm Bureau Federation as they approach the big event. Brad Olsen says it's not just about policy development, but also community. He says the fellowship elements at the convention can be just what membership needs to boost their energy and attitude. More snow is on the way for Wisconsin beginning again this afternoon. Stu Muck breaks out the regional movement the next storm will make. No improvement in temperatures for the rest of this week. Tomorrow is "Giving Tuesday" and many non-profits will be hoping for your financial attention. Pam Jahnke visits with Ellen Schutt, executive director of the WI FFA Foundation. Schutt says that they're hoping for $10,000 in donations on Tuesday - with the first $2,500 being matched by Compeer Financial. Schutt says the money will be used in support of agriculture education in everything from blue jacket scholarships to travel budgets. Those FFA programs depend on agriculture educators in the classroom. That's a commodity that's tough to come by. Kiley Allan visits with an agriculture educator at the Melrose-Mindoro school district that found a "work around" leading her to the classroom. Maddie Dobbs, obtained her teaching license in Ag Education in Wisconsin with only a two-year Associate's degree in Agribusiness, Science and Technology. This was possible due to a "Professional Experience" based technical and vocational education subjects license. The license process involved submitting a simple application and providing verification of industry hours from a previous employer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The November 20 edition of the AgNet News Hour brought an energetic, heartfelt conversation as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill sat down with Anna Genasci, Communications and Education Director for the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau. Genasci, a longtime advocate for agriculture and community outreach, shared exciting updates about educational programs, Farm Bureau growth, and a brand-new agricultural mural being unveiled in Modesto. Genasci began by highlighting the dual mission of Stanislaus County Farm Bureau: advocacy and education. While Farm Bureau itself handles policy and membership, Genasci spearheads the organization's new 501(c)(3) Education Foundation, which focuses on youth programming, grower education, farmworker training, and—uniquely—consumer outreach. “California agriculture cannot survive unless we spend time teaching people where their food comes from,” she said. “It's about creating pride in what our state produces.” Stanislaus County Farm Bureau recently earned recognition as the largest county Farm Bureau in California, edging out Fresno County by just nine members. Genasci praised her team, especially Membership Coordinator Abby, for helping families, growers, and ag-adjacent businesses understand the value of joining. “Every member matters,” she said. “All ships rise together.” A major highlight of the interview was Genasci's passion for ag education for children. Just three weeks ago, she helped organize a field trip day where 1,200 third-graders visited the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds to learn about nutrition, see animals, climb on tractors, and explore agriculture through hands-on learning. “Those experiences are foundational,” she said. “Kids connect with farming when they can touch it, see it, and experience it.” Next summer, the Stanislaus County Library and the Farm Bureau Foundation will introduce agriculture-themed books as part of the countywide reading program, expanding agricultural literacy beyond the classroom. But one of the most exciting projects is happening at the Vintage Fair Mall, where Genasci and the Farm Bureau partnered with Modesto Irrigation District to create a large, agriculture-themed public mural celebrating the region's top crops and the farmers who grow them. The mural is already installed, and the official unveiling takes place November 25 at 10 a.m. “It's a beautiful, positive piece,” Genasci said. “It's not political—it's just celebrating the people who feed us.” Papagni and McGill praised the project, noting how rare it is for a major shopping mall to dedicate space to agriculture. “Everyone in that mall is connected to ag somehow,” Papagni said. “They sell to ag, serve ag, or live in ag communities.” Later in the conversation, Genasci discussed the ongoing fallout from Proposition 50 and applauded Farm Bureau leaders statewide for standing up against a measure that threatens rural representation. “I'm proud to be part of an organization willing to take tough stances,” she said. She also encouraged listeners to get involved: “Whether you love policy, want to educate kids, or work in crop advising, there's a place for you in Farm Bureau.” The interview ended with an invitation to the November 25 celebration and a reminder of what drives Genasci's work: “Agriculture is precious to California. We need to tell that story—loudly and proudly.”

This episode of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast features Dr. Beatrix Haggard, an associate professor in Oklahoma State University's Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, whose teaching mission is to make sure students know what plant they're looking at—and how it works. Dr. Haggard walks us through her journey from FFA land judging in Texas to soil science at Tarleton State and LSU, to a regional soil fertility role in the Louisiana Delta, and finally to a teaching-heavy, tenure-track position at OSU. Along the way, she explains how those experiences shape how she teaches, from intro plant science to senior seminar, crop judging, and soil morphology.The crew also explores major shifts in today's student body and how they change the way agronomy is taught. They discuss students working full-time jobs while in school, the rise of pre-vet and ag business majors, the growing number of non-traditional and out-of-state students (from California to New York and Indiana), and why judging teams and hands-on greenhouse work are powerful ways to build confidence and real-world skills. If you care about who will be scouting your fields, writing your recs, and leading your ag businesses in 10–20 years, this episode is a great look at how OSU is training that next generation.Top 10 takeawaysTeaching-focused, tenure-track agronomy roles are rare—and powerful.Dr. Haggard holds an 85% teaching appointment at a land-grant university, which she describes as a “unicorn” compared to more common research-heavy roles. That lets her invest deeply in core plant and soil courses that hundreds of students pass through every year.Intro plant science at OSU is huge and foundational.Plant 1213 serves ~600 students a year, mostly freshmen, and often becomes their first exposure to plant science, agronomy and OSU's ag culture. What happens in that class heavily influences which majors students choose—and whether they ever consider crops or soils.College is about “learning how to learn,” not just memorizing content.Dr. Haggard uses her own career—soil scientist turned crop teacher—to show students that the real value of college is learning how to tackle new subjects and roles. If she can go from soil formation to crop growth stages on the job, they can pivot in their careers too.Judging teams teach life skills: travel, teamwork and resilience.Beyond plant and seed ID, crops and soils judging expose students to long trips, new regions and tight-quarters team dynamics. For some, it's their first time crossing the Mississippi River or even flying. Dr. Haggard jokes it's a successful trip if everyone is still talking on the way home.Today's students juggle far more than class.Many students work full time, commute home on weekends and carry heavy concurrent credit loads from high school. That changes how instructors design assignments and study expectations—“go to the library all weekend” doesn't match many students' realities anymore.OSU agronomy is no longer just rural Oklahoma farm kids.The department now attracts students from California, Oregon, Washington, Indiana, Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, New York and beyond, plus metro and suburban areas like Edmond and Oklahoma City. Many arrive with little or no farm background, which reshapes how faculty introduce basic equipment and practices.Ag majors are fluid—pre-vet and ag business are big destinations.Dr. Haggard sees many students start in animal science or pre-vet and then migrate to ag business, economics or plant/soil majors once they experience different classes and discover where their interests really lie. Flexibility in degree paths is key.Plain language and memory tricks matter in technical fields.Rather than keeping content “unattainable,” Dr. Haggard leans on layman's terms and memorable phrases like “all cats manage kittens ammonium naturally” to help students retain complex ideas such as the lyotropic series in soil chemistry. Those small tools make a big difference for freshmen.Extension and classroom teaching are two sides of the same coin.Josh points out that he loves teaching the same agronomic concepts to two very different audiences: landowners and consultants on the extension side, and students in the classroom. The goals and depth differ, but both are about helping people apply agronomy in real life.Stable, passionate teachers anchor a department.Brian notes how important it is for a department to have long-term, high-quality teachers in core classes. With Dr. Haggard and Dr. Abbott, OSU Plant and Soil Sciences has a consistent foundation for teaching the “fundamentals” to every student who comes through the program. Segment Timestamps00:00–02:00 – Opening & introductions02:00–06:30 – What Dr. Haggard teaches at OSU06:30–11:30 – Her path into soils and agronomy11:30–15:30 – First “real” job & learning crops on the fly15:30–19:30 – Why she loves teaching19:30–24:30 – Building a teaching-heavy career at a land-grant24:30–29:30 – How Josh and Beatrix coordinate teaching29:30–26:00 – Judging teams and what students gain26:00–33:30 – How students and learning have changed33:30–36:35 – Who OSU agronomy students are now & close RedDirtAgronomy.com

The November 3 edition of the AgNet News Hour delivered a mix of optimism and realism as hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill recapped the week's biggest ag stories and welcomed back Sonny Toor, owner of Valley Pride Ag Company, for a deep dive into the state of California's almond industry.   Toor, known for his steady outlook even in tough markets, joined the show to discuss crop forecasts, pricing trends, and how trade and weather are shaping grower returns. He confirmed that this year's almond crop is trending slightly below 2.7 billion pounds, down from last year's 2.73 billion, as higher damage rates and lower net edible yields take effect. “There's good product out there,” Toor said, “but the actual sellable volume is smaller, which helps support prices.”   He noted that market panic early in the season — driven by a July estimate near 3 billion pounds — caused prices to tumble almost 80 cents per pound. But as the harvest came in shorter than expected, markets began to firm up again. “We're moving closer to a fair market price,” he explained. “The last three years have been tough on growers, but the pendulum is swinging back toward balance.”   Toor also credited strong export demand and reduced supply as factors keeping prices stable through the winter. However, he warned that the strong U.S. dollar could slow export sales. “A strong dollar hurts us,” he said. “But the good news is that California almonds are irreplaceable — no one grows like we do.”   When asked about tariffs, Toor said he supports President Trump's current trade approach with Europe and Asia. “He's been smart about avoiding counter-tariffs on U.S. almonds,” Toor said. “That's helped keep demand steady. We just need fair deals and continued access to our export markets.”   He also discussed the need for the Almond Board and USDA to rethink the way they estimate annual yields. “The current system is outdated,” he said. “It's time to rely on real data and industry collaboration instead of one-size-fits-all projections.”   Beyond economics, Toor emphasized advocacy and education. Valley Pride Ag has launched programs that bring schoolchildren to almond orchards and processing plants to learn firsthand about farming. “If kids see where their food comes from, they understand how important it is,” he said. “That's how we build the next generation of ag leaders.”   Papagni and McGill closed the show with an enthusiastic call for farmers to join in that effort. “Every grower can make a difference just by opening their gates and showing kids what farming looks like,” Papagni said. “That's how we protect the future of California agriculture.”

The October 30 edition of the AgNet News Hour spotlighted one of the most promising voices in California's agricultural education — Cody Jacobson, Dean of Agriculture and Industrial Technology at Merced College. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill described Jacobson as a “boots-on-the-ground” leader who bridges the gap between traditional farming and the future of ag technology. Jacobson, who still farms more than 100 acres of almonds in La Grande, told listeners that real-world experience shapes everything he does as an educator. “I'm a farmer first,” he said. “That's why when we teach, it's not just theory — it's what's happening right now in the field.” Jacobson also raises sheep and comes from a family of livestock producers, giving him deep roots in Central Valley agriculture. At Merced College, Jacobson oversees one of the state's most diverse agriculture programs, spanning animal science, ag business, crop and plant science, horticulture, mechanized ag, and ag education. He also leads a rapidly growing Ag Tech Program, which trains students for emerging roles in precision farming, automation, and food processing. “We're building the workforce California agriculture will depend on,” Jacobson explained. “Whether it's digital literacy, equipment operation, or AI-driven ag systems — our students are ready to step into those jobs right away.” The college is now constructing a cutting-edge Ag Innovation Center, which will feature a meat processing facility, tree-nut and produce processing labs, a nutrition and product-development center, and a retail farm market. The facility will house optical sorters, robotic palletizers, autonomous conveyors, and advanced quality-control tools — giving students the hands-on experience they need to meet the industry's rising demand for tech-skilled workers. Jacobson emphasized that his mission goes beyond teaching technology — it's about preserving agriculture itself. “If we take away farming, small towns like La Grande will disappear,” he said. “Our job is to make sure the next generation knows how vital agriculture is to California's future.” A proud FFA and 4-H alumnus, Jacobson credits those programs for shaping his leadership path and continues to recruit students through FFA and high-school outreach. “You don't have to grow up on a farm to love farming,” he said. “FFA teaches communication, leadership, and respect — skills that help in every career.” Papagni closed the show calling Jacobson “one of the best guests we've had all year,” and McGill agreed: “What they're building at Merced College is the blueprint for keeping California farming strong.”

Welcome to RealAg on the Weekend with host Lyndsey Smith! On today’s show, Smith is joined by: Amber Bell and Jack Payne on fall weed control Greg Cherewyk, with Pulse Canada, on trade with India and China Darcy Pawlik, new chair of Ag in the Classroom Canada Eric Olson, with MNP, with a product spotlight... Read More

In this episode of the Rural Roots Canada Podcast, hosts Tim Parent and Craig Lester sit down with the newest members of the RRC team — Olivia Taylor and Hayden Lester — for an engaging conversation about agriculture education in Canada. As students deeply passionate about the ag industry, Olivia and Hayden share their insights and first-hand perspectives on what's working, what could be improved, and how the sector can better inspire and attract the next generation of agricultural leaders across the country.

In this episode, Managed Editor Christine Book sat down with John Fulton, a professor with Ohio State Univ.'s Department of Food, Agriculture and Biological Engineering,while working on Farm Equipment's first-ever special report on careers in precision ag for the October/November issue of the magazine.

https://eatyouryardjax.org/Get your tickets to Persimmon Fest here  americanfarmsteadhers.com americanfarmsteadconvention.com

This week on Talk Dirt to Me, we're diving head-first into your burning questions, and things get wild. Ever wondered how farmers collect semen from bulls, horses, and even pigs? We break it down with some gritty, no-BS farm talk. We also tackle the big question in ag economics: what's the best way to learn it? Should you invest in a college degree, or can you gain just as much (maybe more) from hands-on ag extension courses? Then, we shift gears into one of the hottest topics in agriculture today: farm payments. This is a subject we've been outspoken about in the past, but with the extreme situation farmers are facing in today's ag world, we actually find ourselves rethinking our stance. You'll hear us debate it, wrestle with the realities, and share how our perspective has evolved. Whether you're a farmer, rancher, ag student, or just curious about the gritty truth of modern farming, this episode brings the heat with honest conversation, wild stories, and unfiltered opinions. Support the Show & Your Tractor Cab: Head over to https://tractormat.link/td2m and use the code TALKDIRT to save 15% on an American-made floor mat built tough for your tractor. Go check out Agzaga! It is the ultimate online farm store. American owned and operated. Go check out their site and get what you need. Be sure to use the code TalkDirt20 to get $20 off your order of $50 or more! Visit them at: https://agzaga.com 

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we dive into the powerful world of agricultural education and career and technical education (CTE), with award-winning ag teacher Eric Sawatzke. Eric shares how hands-on learning and real-world applications—like hydroponic farming, meat processing labs, and FFA leadership—are transforming student engagement and preparing learners for meaningful careers.This episode is packed with inspiring stories and practical tips about a wide range of topics, from rural classrooms to national grants. Whether you're new to CTE or looking to expand your school's opportunities, Eric's insights offer a compelling look at how education can open doors and build pathways to success beyond the traditional college track. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

This Farm Talk segment is brought to you by North Dakota Corn. Emily Grunewald, with the Red River Valley Fair, says the Ag Education Center is a highlight on the fairgrounds. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Darren Hefty — South Dakota farmer, co-host of Ag PhD TV and Radio, and a respected leader in both agriculture and ag business. With a legacy rooted in service, innovation, and education, Darren shares the powerful story of how he, his brother Brian, and their father built Hefty Seed Company into the 7th largest crop production firm and the 9th largest seed retailer in the U.S., now operating across 50 locations in 12 states.Darren walks us through his early days on the farm, starting at just 7 years old in the farrow-to-finish hog operation, making auction decisions with his dad at 10, and managing hired help by age 13. His passion for agriculture was matched by an early sense of responsibility — a trait that continues to define his leadership today..You'll also hear about the upcoming Ag PhD Field Day on July 31 in Baltic, South Dakota, now available for streaming on AcresTV, and why the mission of Ag PhD remains focused on serving farmers first.Whether you're a farmer, ag business owner, or just someone looking to learn from one of the industry's most experienced and grounded voices, this episode is full of real-world perspective, ag innovation, and leadership lessons you won't want to miss. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Illinois Corn Marketing Board collaborates with Illinois FFA in various ways to help strengthen the future of agriculture by investing in its next generation. In this Managing for Profit, Owen Torrance, the current Illinois FFA state secretary, discusses how the state's corn growers are actively involved at several levels of the organization.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This Farm Talk Segment is brought to you by North Dakota Corn. The Red River Valley Fair’s Ag Education Center, presented by the Cass County Farm Bureau, allows students to learn about the region’s agriculture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines on today's episode include:Cotton Growers Monitor U.S. and China, Efforts to increase interest in ag education, Study shows biodiesel industry created $42.4 billion in economic activity in 2024, Cattle prices are in uncharted territory, Farmers tackle purple henbit, and The doldrums of the ag economy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ag Education on the Move is a comprehensive curriculum that provides third-grade students across the state with information about the state's agriculture industries. In this episode, program director Heather Fletcher discusses how support from the Missouri Beef Industry Council makes the beef lesson possible.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join us as we explore Jessica's inspiring journey from eastern Oklahoma to becoming an integral part of a diversified farming operation in the northwest. She shares her experience transitioning from the wetter, more humid climate of eastern Oklahoma to the drier conditions of the west, adapting to new challenges in soil health, crop insurance trends, and unpredictable weather patterns. With deep roots in agriculture, Jessica and her husband, Clint, have grown their operation while raising a family that values hard work and the land.We also dive into the benefits of no-till farming, how soil conservation plays a key role in long-term sustainability, and what it takes to balance farming, family, and a career in crop insurance. Jessica reflects on her time at the assessor's office, where she gained valuable insights into her new community in Major County. Plus, we reminisce about our days working together at OSU under Dr. Karen Hickman. Don't miss Jessica's take on the power of networking among producers and how changing weather patterns continue to shape the future of agriculture in Oklahoma. RedDirtAgronomy.com

Today we welcome Craig Davison and Jeff Miller onto the R2Kast!

In rural America, agriculture is a way of life and is learned through experiences from a young age, but those who grow up in urban settings don’t get that experience. There is one school in Milwaukee looking to change that. The River Trails School of Agricultural Science offers a unique experience to their students by having an ag focus in all grades starting in kindergarten all the way through 8th grade. Josh Gonzalez a second-grade teacher and agriculture committee chairman at the school shares how they incorporate agriculture into their curriculum. He says that being able to teach the students how to produce food and see what agriculture has to offer are the goals of the system that the school has set up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Farm Talk segment is brought to you by North Dakota Corn. Cody Cashman serves as the Red River Valley Fair Association CEO. In this segment, Cashman highlights the Red River Valley Fair Ag Education Center as they welcomed their first field trip to the center last week.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stanislaus County Farm Bureau's Anna Genasci and JCS Marketing's Kristin Platts sit down with Becca Whitman, executive director of California Ag in the Classroom, a Farm Bureau-led program, to discuss educating students and guiding teachers about the critical role agriculture plays in their daily lives.

In this episode, we interview another current student of ours, Braden Fowler. Braden is from Auburn, CA. Braden was originally an education major but changed his major and is currently an Ag Education major with an emphasis in Agriculture Mechanics. He as been a part of our program for the past two years and has helped with multiple activities. This past year he took on the role of co-chair for the Small Gas Engines CDE. If you have topic ideas or want to reach out to us our email is SGRpodcast@gmail.com  Check out the podcast website for the latest episode in full length using the link https://safetyglassesrequired.libsyn.com/  Check out our YouTube pages: John  Chris 

Today is Tuesday, July 30, 2024. The Brainerd Dispatch Minute is a product of Forum Communications Co. and is brought to you by reporters at the Brainerd Dispatch. Find more news throughout the day at BrainerdDispatch.com.

Join us on the Kick Your Boots Up Podcast for an exclusive episode featuring Jennifer Jackson, the Executive Director of Texas FFA, and Jaqueline Brand, the Area Six Vice-President. Hear about the 2024 Texas FFA Convention as they share insider tips, behind-the-scenes insights, and their personal experiences. Don't miss this chance to get the inside scoop and prepare for the event of the year! For a full episode transcript, please visit our website: https://www.justinboots.com/en/kick-your-boots-up/podcast.html

Episode 087: of the American Grown Podcast in the Colortech Creative Solutions studios with Patrick Nicarry Owner of Nicarry Farrier Service.-In this episode Pat talks about the importance of agriculture & self reliance. We discuss how critical it is to not be relying on big government to provide for you and your family. Pat talks about his time in FFA (Future Farmers of America) and how it changed the course of his life. He truly believes that it's an organization that all young people should get involved in. Lastly he peels back the layers on what it means to be a farrier.-To learn more about Patrick click here: https://www.facebook.com/patrick.nicarry/-#ad this episode is brought to you by these sponsors:Triggered 22. Support a local veteran and help spread awareness for PTSD & #22aday.Cleona Coffee Roasters. A small batch coffee roastery & coffee shop, veteran & first responder owned located inside 911 Rapid Response in Annville PA.Colortech Creative Solutions. Colortech Creative Solutions takes your creative projects from visualization to realization since 1980 while keeping your budget in mind.-To see photos of today's guest follow our Social media: IG- https://www.instagram.com/americangrownpodcast/ FB-https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077655465940 or visits us at https://rss.com/podcasts/americangrownpodcast/

In this week's episode of Agri-Biz, Sarah Heinrich talks with Dave Franzen of NDSU about fertilizer trends and Cody Cashman about the newly renovated Ag Education Center at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds.  Rusty Halvorson covered the World Association of Beet and Cane Growers conference in Fargo - talking with Harrison Weber of the RRVSGA, WABCG President David Thompson of East Grand Forks, American Sugarbeet Growers Association executive vice president and CEO Luther Markwart, and Hallock farmer Dan "Duck" Younggren. Also, the Northern Crops Institute hosted a webinar with Allison Thompson of The Money Farm in Ada, and she provided a wheat market update.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shannon Martin, Assistant Director of Ag Education and Foundation, joins the Inside Ag podcast to discuss Kansas Farm Bureau's resources for Agriculture Education. She helps others educate about agriculture by creating lessons that reach different age groups, focus on different agriculture sectors and cover the different seasons. She shares fun ways to engage youth in learning and unique ways to connect with adults. Find more Ag Education resources by visiting Education (kfb.org)

In this episode of Ag Culture, we embark on a fascinating journey into agricultural education with Tony McCaul, Executive Director of The Critter Barn, and its unique approach to inspiring the next generation. Tony shares his journey from a farm kid to an influential ag educator and discusses the transformative impact of The Critter Barn. This 36-acre nonprofit serves as a beacon of agricultural education through hands-on learning and community engagement. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the agriculture industry looking to explore innovative educational models and their profound effects on individuals and the community. What you will learn: (00:00) Introducing Tony McCaul (05:32) Ag education's evolution (11:18) Nonprofit challenges and growth (15:27) Community's agricultural hub (20:02) Empowering the next generation (24:27) Tony's drive (29:10) Connecting with The Critter Barn Meet the Guest: Tony McCaul, Executive Director of The Critter Barn, has dedicated his life to agricultural education. With a background in farming and a degree in agriculture education from Michigan State, Tony has transformed ag education in his community by focusing on hands-on learning, community engagement, and technology integration. His leadership at The Critter Barn has expanded the nonprofit's reach and impact, making agriculture accessible and engaging for a new generation. Discover the world of agriculture with the "Ag Culture Podcast", hosted by Paul Windemuller. This podcast will be a gateway for those passionate about agriculture to explore its global perspectives and innovative practices. Join Paul as he shares his experiences in the agricultural industry, his travels and encounters with important figures around the world. Expect engaging stories of Paul's journey as a first-generation farmer and consultant, covering topics ranging from coffee to greenhouses to agricultural technology. "Ag Culture'' will aim to inspire agricultural entrepreneurs and innovators weekly. Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Subscribe at ⁠⁠agculturepodcast.com⁠⁠ and keep an eye out for future episodes, bringing insights and stories from the vibrant world of agriculture.

The Henry County Farm Bureau is as busy as ever with contests, scholarships, and events coming up in the month of February and beyond. Katie Laleman with the Henry County Farm Bureau joined Wake Up Tri-Counties on Wednesday to tout the poster and t-shirt design contest going on with local schools in Henry County. 1st through 3rd grade artists are creating posters for Henry County Farm Bureau Poster Contest while 4th grade students have a project of their own, designing a t-shirt for the Henry County Farm Bureau T-Shirt contest. Meanwhile, older students are gearing up for college and that means it's scholarship season. The Henry County Farm Bureau Foundation has a number of scholarships available for those seeking to further their Ag Education. There are Ag specific scholarships as well as some general scholarships and you can find out more and how your student may qualify by contacting the Henry County Farm Bureau Foundation. 

This show highlights some unique agricultural and food education programs based in the Midwest. Learn about the work of the Iowa Dairy Center, where community members and students at Northeastern Iowa Community College use the center as their own learning lab. And, we explore how Kalamazoo Valley Community College is training a new generation of sustainable ag and culinary leaders. Meet Mariah Busta, the Dairy Center Coordinator at the Northeast Iowa Dairy & Agriculture Foundation. Additionally, meet the team from KVCC; Kate Miller, the Director of Career and Continuing Education, Lizzie Luchsinger, the coordinator of the Community Culinary & Nutrition program, Rachel Bair, the Director for Sustainable Food Systems and Agrifoods, and Culinary Arts Instructor Kyle Mitchell.Heritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support Eat Your Heartland Out by becoming a member!Eat Your Heartland Out is Powered by Simplecast.

Mexico, MO native and current National FFA Secretary discusses the importance of FFA in the classroom as well as how he earned his national office.

Columbia Mayor Barbara Buffaloe has gone on her second international trip in just a few weeks. Folks have lots to say about it! Lincoln University is using newfound dollars to fund Ag Education.

In this week's episode,  Stan sits down with Homer Lenderman. Homer is a former public school agri-education teacher, an Arkansas State Representative, and an all-around good guy.Stan and Homer talk about the importance of family, faith, and farming. Homer has seen a lot of transition and change in the agricultural world, and offers much wisdom for the next generation who might be interested in farming.We'd love to hear your feedback! Please reach out to us if you have ideas for future shows or how we can make That Farm Life even better! Email us at aghealth@williamsbu.edu!That Farm Life is produced by Eagle Farms at Williams Baptist University. That Farm Life Podcast is also a resource of Agri Health Network. For more information and to find more resources, check out AgriHealth.net. Are you interested in graduating from college debt free? Check out the Williams Works program at WBU! For more information, call 870-759-4120 or email admissions@williamsbu.edu.