Podcasts about Agri

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

Recorded live on the final day of SIAL Canada, this bonus episode of The Food Professor brings hosts Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois face to face with Jacques Duhaime, owner of Duhaime Gourmet — a Quebec fruit-spread and jam company that Sylvain has wanted on the show for years. The conversation traces four generations of agricultural evolution in Saint-Germain, near Drummondville, Quebec, and shows how a small dairy farm became one of Canada's most distinctive low-sugar jam and fruit-spread producers. Jacques walks listeners through the company's origin story: founded in 1945 as a dairy farm by his grandfather, expanded into orchards and vegetables by his father in 1948, and refocused entirely on produce after the dairy herd was sold in 1960. Jacques took over the farm from his parents in 1981, when the operation was running roughly 200 acres of vegetables. A tough vegetable market in 1995 pushed the family toward jam-making, and a pursuit of naturally low-sugar recipes led Jacques back to school at ITA to develop the reduced-sugar techniques that still define the brand today. A pivotal trip with Groupe Export in 2000 opened the door to Japan, where Duhaime Gourmet's low-sugar spreads found immediate demand — at a time when the company already supplied roughly 400 boutique stores across Quebec. The business went on to export to the United States for a decade, supplying jams, spreads, and fruit pairings for cheese, while also building a substantial private-label business across Quebec, Canada, and Japan. Jacques also opens up about the structure of the business today: the orchard remains family-owned and is now run by his son, marking a fifth generation on the land, while the processing side of Duhaime Gourmet was sold roughly a year ago to Bertrand Marquis, a fellow Saint-Germain entrepreneur who previously worked in the wood industry. Jacques reflects candidly on international trade shows — from an early appearance at a golf show in Dubai to lessons learned about race-to-the-bottom pricing in that market — and on how the company's trade show schedule has grown from roughly 10 shows a year before the pandemic to as many as 30–40 today. The episode closes on Duhaime Gourmet's newest product: a 90%-fruit spread sweetened with just 10% organic sugar, containing less than three grams of sugar and no pectin — a launch aimed at diabetics, families, and babies alike, debuting in strawberry rhubarb and headed for Metro shelves soon. A warm, detail-rich conversation for anyone interested in Quebec food manufacturing, family business succession, food innovation, and insights into global trade show strategy in the specialty food sector. https://www.duhaimegourmet.com/en/ About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

On this episode of The Country Podcast, brought to you by Ballance Agri-Nutrients, Hamish McKay catches up with Michelle and Tony Roberts of Top Deck Trading in Southland, winners of the 2026 Ballance Farm Environment Awards National Ambassadors for Sustainable Farming & Growing and the prestigious Gordon Stevenson Trophy. Together, they discuss their farming journey, the innovations helping drive sustainable outcomes on farm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You are listening to Agri Culture, a podcast that aims to explore the stories of the people that make up our agricultural industry and culture of farming, in Scotland and beyond.Today's episode isn't being hosted by Mary-Jane as normal, but by Kerry Hammond. Usually, Kerry sits in the producer's chair behind the scenes. Today's episode focuses on the experiences of neurodivergent individuals in the agricultural community. As a neurodivergent individual, and a neurodivergence-informed coach, Kerry jumped at the opportunity to grab the mic for one episode only, to have an incredible conversation with Ren Fisher. Ren is also Neurodivergent, she works for The Soil Association as Head of Wales – Farming and Land Use, and Ren also has her own business providing neurodivergent coaching, training and advocacy. That business is called ‘Harvesting Potential'. Ren co-founded the brand new ‘Rural Neurodivergent Network', a nationwide WhatsApp group to facilitate individuals diagnosed, suspecting, or supporting those who are neurodivergent, to “Find Their Tribe!”. Thanks for joining us for this episode of Agri Culture. If you'd like to find out more about Neurodivergence, the rural Neurodivergent Network, or to contact Ren Fisher directly, you can find links and her direct email address in the show notes. This episode was produced and presented by me Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government.ResourcesAgri Culture - Liz Haines: Levelling The Field, Neurodiversity in Agriculture | FASRen Fisher - Harvesting Potential - InstagramRen Fisher - Harvesting Potentials: Overview | LinkedInJoin the Network Email: harvesting.potentials@outlook.comWhat is Neurodiversity :: Keeping WellFor more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScotNational Advice HubPhone: 0300 323 0161Email: advice@fas.scot

The Ministry of Agriculture is placing agri-processing at the heart of its Green Revolution strategy, aiming to add value to local produce, reduce food imports, create jobs and strengthen Saint Lucia's food security.

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

 On this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak welcomes back Mindy Patterson, President and Co-Founder of The Cavalry Group, for an in-depth discussion on protecting agriculture through legislative advocacy, grassroots action, and informed leadership. Mindy explains how The Cavalry Group's Legislative Flash Map is helping farmers, ranchers, and animal owners stay informed about legislation affecting their livelihoods at the local, state, and federal levels, while providing practical tools to help citizens engage with lawmakers before it's too late. The conversation highlights why showing up at committee hearings and town halls can make a real difference, and why grassroots involvement remains one of the strongest tools for protecting agriculture and the future of American farming. The discussion also covers the latest Farm Bill developments and several pieces of legislation that could significantly impact livestock producers, including the Puppy Protection Act, Better Care for Animals Act, SAFE Act, Goldie's Act, and other proposals that Mindy says are often presented under appealing names while carrying far-reaching consequences for agriculture and animal ownership. Chrissy and Mindy discuss the increasing influence of animal rights organizations in legislative processes, the ongoing efforts to ban working animals such as horse-drawn carriages, and why producers should pay close attention to these issues.The episode also revisits the Biden Administration's 30x30 initiative, conservation policies, and the continued importance of protecting private property rights. Mindy explains why she believes producers must remain vigilant, even as some initiatives appear to have slowed, and discusses the role of public-private partnerships and federal agencies in shaping future land use policies.Throughout the conversation, Mindy offers practical advice for farmers, ranchers, and rural landowners on how to become more involved in the legislative process, attend local meetings, build relationships with elected officials, and protect the future of American agriculture. She leaves listeners with an encouraging message that informed, organized citizens can and do make a difference when they choose to engage.To learn more about The Cavalry Group, become a member, or explore the Legislative Flash Map, visit TheCavalryGroup.com.Send us Fan MailSchedule a demo today at ecorobotix.com Introducing FarmNewsDaily.com - your source for agriculture news!Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

Rabobank has asked a range of industry leaders for their take on what the food and agri sector could look like in the future. 

Rusty Halvorson and Sarah Heinrich share some of the top stories in agriculture for July 5th, 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the Season 6 regular season finale of The Food Professor Podcast, hosts Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois welcome Pete Hoekstra, United States Ambassador to Canada, for an exclusive and wide-ranging conversation about the future of Canada-U.S. food trade, agriculture, supply chains and North American economic cooperation. While The Food Professor Podcast isn't a political show, few relationships matter more to Canada's food economy than its partnership with the United States. Ambassador Hoekstra offers a candid look at his role representing the Trump administration in Ottawa, explains the work of a modern ambassador, and shares his perspective on the ongoing CUSMA (USMCA) review, agricultural trade priorities, supply management, cross-border investment, and strengthening North American food supply chains. The discussion explores why resilient supply chains have become a strategic priority, the importance of Canadian agricultural exports to American consumers, opportunities for future collaboration in critical minerals, energy, manufacturing and food production, and how both countries can continue building one of the world's largest and most integrated trading relationships. The conversation also tackles the Gordie Howe International Bridge, provincial restrictions on U.S. alcohol sales, touches on Canada's supply management system, and the broader outlook for Canada-U.S. relations as negotiations continue. Whether you agree or disagree with the Ambassador's positions, this thoughtful interview provides listeners with valuable insight into how the United States views its relationship with Canada and why food, agriculture and trade remain central to that partnership. Before the interview, Michael and Sylvain break down another busy week in food and agriculture news. They examine how El Niño-driven heat and drought could affect crop production and food prices, discuss the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's latest report on their crackdown on food fraud and product authenticity, review the Grocery Code of Conduct's first public report, and explore the growing global demand for dairy protein as processors struggle with whey shortages amid Canada's supply management system. The episode also covers Rhode Island's new self-checkout legislation, the ongoing Metro labour dispute in Quebec, innovative flavour marketing from Miss Vickie's, and reflects on another remarkable season of conversations with leaders from across Canada's food, retail and agriculture sectors. Thank you for joining us throughout Season 6. While our regular season concludes here, we'll continue bringing you fresh episodes recorded live from SIAL Canada in Montreal throughout the summer before returning this fall for another exciting season of The Food Professor Podcast. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Most people spend a lifetime trying to balance their passions.Tannis Kowalchuk planted hers in the same field.In this episode of HarmonyTALK, host Lisa Champeau sits down with the artistic director of Farm Arts Collective and co-owner of Willow Wisp Organic Farm along Pennsylvania's Delaware River.A performer at heart, Tannis always knew she belonged on a stage. Then she met a farmer. What followed was a remarkable journey that combined two seemingly different worlds into one life's mission.Today, Tannis is an actor, director, producer, farmer, educator, and climate advocate whose work has transformed a working organic and solar farm into a destination for original theater and community dialogue.Her productions are performed right on the farm, where audiences gather among fields, barns, and open skies to experience stories rooted in the realities of rural life. This summer, she directs Johnny Appleseed: An Historical Fantasia, the Farm Arts Collective's newest original production.During the conversation, Tannis shares how farming changed the way she sees the world, why climate change has become one of the most urgent topics facing agriculture, and how theater can help people understand challenges that affect all of us.As she explains:"Climate change and new weather events are the talk of the farming community. First, these devastating events affect farmers, then they affect the eaters. And the eaters are all of us."Tannis also offers thoughtful advice for aspiring artists, emphasizing the importance of mastering your craft, building relationships with mentors and collaborators, and staying committed to the work.Insightful, inspiring, and deeply original, this episode explores what happens when creativity, purpose, and community all take root in the same place.@Farm Arts Collective @Willow Wisp Organic Farm @Lisa Champeau

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

As planting and growing season continues across the country, stewardship remains one of the most important responsibilities for growers and applicators. In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, host Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Mike Aerts, Vice President of Science and Regulatory Affairs at the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association, to discuss the 2026 BeSure! Campaign and the role stewardship plays in protecting pollinators, wildlife, water quality, and agricultural productivity.Mike explains how the BeSure! Campaign serves as a decision-support resource that encourages growers and applicators to follow best management practices while emphasizing a simple but critical message: read and follow the label. He discusses the extensive scientific research behind pesticide labels and why the phrase "the label is the law" remains one of the most important principles in crop protection.The conversation explores the essential role pollinators play in agriculture, including their contribution to approximately one-third of the food we consume and more than 75% of the world's flowering plants. Mike also addresses common misconceptions surrounding pollinator health and explains how factors such as pests, diseases, habitat loss, weather events, and invasive species often have a greater impact on bee populations than many people realize.Listeners will learn about stewardship practices for treated seed and foliar applications, the importance of proper equipment calibration, spray drift management, and the growing use of technology to improve application accuracy. Mike also shares insights into Florida's Managed Pollinator Protection Plan (MP3), a voluntary program that helps growers and beekeepers communicate effectively to protect pollinators while maintaining crop production.The discussion also highlights a new concern for beekeepers across the United States—the invasive yellow-legged hornet—which has recently been detected in the Southeast and poses a significant threat to honey bee populations.Throughout the episode, Mike emphasizes that food security depends on responsible crop protection practices and collaboration among growers, applicators, beekeepers, registrants, and regulators. The result is a practical conversation about how agriculture continues to improve stewardship while producing the food, fiber, and specialty crops consumers depend on every day.To learn more about the BeSure! Campaign and access stewardship resources, visit GrowingMatters.org/BeSure.Send us Fan MailSchedule a demo today at ecorobotix.com Introducing FarmNewsDaily.com - your source for agriculture news!Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois sit down with Vincent Breton, President & CEO of duBreton, Canada's leading organic pork producer, for a fascinating live interview recorded at SIAL Canada in Montreal. Vincent shares the remarkable story behind duBreton's evolution from a traditional pork producer into one of the world's fastest-growing organic pork companies. He explains why the company made the bold decision to abandon conventional production in favour of organic and animal welfare-certified farming, why younger consumers are increasingly seeking ethically produced food, and how long-term thinking has become a competitive advantage. The conversation explores the realities of producing premium food in today's marketplace, including the economics of organic farming, the growing importance of transparency, and why Vincent believes consumers deserve clear labelling around gene editing and cloning technologies. He also discusses duBreton's expansion across North America and Europe, the opportunities presented by the U.S. market, the company's growing influence in Texas barbecue circles, and why social media, education and consumer trust are becoming essential tools for modern food brands. Perhaps most compelling is Vincent's candid discussion of Quebec's collective marketing system and why he continues to advocate for greater producer choice, innovation and entrepreneurial freedom within Canadian agriculture. It's an insightful conversation about leadership, values, food policy and building a purpose-driven business in an increasingly competitive global marketplace. First, Michael and Sylvain kick off the episode with their weekly review of the biggest food and agriculture stories making headlines. They examine Canada's latest food inflation numbers as grocery prices continue to outpace overall inflation, discuss why salmon prices have surged dramatically heading into summer, analyze new trade measures affecting canned food imports, and explore ongoing Competition Bureau investigations into grocery property controls. The hosts also dive into new research on costly regulatory delays affecting meat imports, rising regional ice cream prices, the challenges food manufacturers face replacing artificial colours, changes to the U.S. SNAP food assistance program, and the broader debate over balancing affordability, nutrition and agricultural policy. Along the way, they celebrate Canadian Grocer Golden Pencil Award winners and preview the season finale before a full summer of special interviews recorded at SIAL Canada. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

What if the reason you can't find good people has nothing to do with where your farm is — and everything to do with how you're showing up?Finding and keeping top talent in agriculture is one of the most pressing challenges facing farming families today — and it's only getting harder. With a retirement cliff looming, a shrinking pool of skilled workers, and a generation that thinks and works differently than any before it, the old ways of hiring simply don't cut it anymore. But here's the thing: the farms that are winning this battle aren't necessarily the biggest or the best resourced. They're the ones who've figured out what great people actually want — and how to communicate it.In this episode, Ben Law sits down with Kelli McDougall, Partner and Managing Director of Agri Talent, a woman who grew up between Inglewood and Goondiwindi, built her own recruitment business at 25, and has spent the better part of three decades placing top-tier talent across the agricultural sector. She sits squarely in the middle of both sides of this conversation — hearing what farming families are frustrated about, and what high performers are quietly walking away from.What she's seeing should make every farming family sit up and pay attention.Kelli unpacks why over 80% of the best placements Agri Talent makes are headhunts — meaning those people weren't even looking — and what that tells you about where the real competition for talent actually lives. She gets into the uncomfortable truth about why good people leave good employers, and why it's rarely about money. She talks about what your housing says about your standards, why a half-billion-dollar farming operation with zero online presence is raising red flags with 30-year-old candidates, and what the difference is between telling people you're a great place to work and actually being one.There's also a conversation about the tectonic demographic shifts reshaping who's available to work in agriculture over the next decade — and why automation and authenticity may be your two most powerful recruitment tools going forward.Whether you're trying to attract your first farm manager or hold onto the best operator you've ever had, this episode will change how you think about the people side of your business. 

On this week's Diggin' In with MOFB, Matt Moreland joins the show to talk about his farm and all things Agri-tourism conference. The 2026 Missouri Agri-tourism conference will be held July 12-14 in Hermann, Mo. The annual gathering provides a wealth of information for those currently engaged in Agri-tourism or curious about getting started. Matt Moreland, owner of Red Barn Ranch near Harrisonville, Mo says the conference is a priority for his operation year after year. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts to have Digging In sent directly to your smart device each time it's released! Host: Janet Adkison, Missouri Farm Bureau Director of Public Affairs Guest: Matt Moreland, Red Barn Ranch Producer: Jacob King, Missouri Farm Bureau Video & Audio Media Specialist

Why more farmers are opening their gates to the public - all week we're looking at agri-tourism.Scientists across the world are investigating ways to reduce the climate change gas methane produced by livestock, using feed supplements made of synthetic chemicals, tannins, fats and even seaweed. Asparagopsis is a red seaweed that reacts with enzymes in the final stages of digestion and stops methane from being produced. The cost of abattoir inspections is proving contentious in Scotland where Food Standards Scotland is the body responsible for these.Presented by Caz Graham and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

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

Rising costs, higher interest rates, and continued uncertainty are putting fresh pressure on Irish farming - but what does the outlook really look like in 2026?Bobby is joined by Eoin Lowry, Head of Agri at Bank of Ireland to discuss.

El Plan de Justicia San Quintín es una realidad que transforma la vida de miles de jornaleros en Baja California con apoyos de 40,000 pesos para vivienda.

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois welcome Jean-François Archambault, Founder and General Manager of La Tablée des Chefs, for an inspiring conversation about food recovery, food security, and the power of community action. Recorded live at SIAL Montreal, this episode showcases one of Canada's most remarkable social entrepreneurs and the national movement he has built to reduce food waste while feeding those in need. Since founding La Tablée des Chefs in 2002, Jean-François has transformed a bold idea into one of Canada's most impactful food recovery organizations. What began as a mission to rescue surplus food from hotels, restaurants, sporting venues, and major events has grown into a nationwide network that has recovered enough food to create more than 26 million meals. From the Bell Centre and NHL arenas to Formula 1 events and major hospitality venues, La Tablée des Chefs now redirects millions of meals annually to frontline organizations serving vulnerable Canadians. The conversation explores the organization's two core pillars: feeding people facing food insecurity and educating young Canadians about food autonomy and cooking skills. Jean-François shares the remarkable growth of the Kitchen Brigades program, now operating in hundreds of schools across Canada, empowering nearly 100,000 young people with practical food knowledge while building confidence, self-esteem, and life skills. He also discusses innovative initiatives such as the Solidarity Soups program and the Grand Marmite fundraising events that are helping expand school food programs across the country. The discussion also examines the growing challenges of food insecurity in Canada, the importance of food literacy, the role chefs can play in social impact, and why Canada needs a more ambitious and coordinated national approach to food security. Jean-François offers a compelling vision for how governments, businesses, community organizations, and citizens can work together to create lasting change. Before the interview, Michael and Sylvain unpack a busy week in food and agriculture news. Topics include the Competition Bureau's new examination of Canada's food supply chain, the federal government's newly announced food strategy, food waste research revealing Generation X as Canada's most wasteful demographic, the future of salmon farming, Quebec's move to restrict energy drink sales to minors, the return of frozen juice concentrate, and Foodtastic's continued expansion. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

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

With input costs remaining high and profit margins under pressure, producers are increasingly looking for ways to improve productivity without simply adding more fertilizer, more irrigation, or more crop inputs. In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, host Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Chad Godsey, Chief Agronomist at Green Evolution Technologies, to discuss how growers are evaluating new technologies, why efficiency has become the new benchmark for success, and how innovations at the soil and root level may help unlock future yield gains.Chad brings a unique perspective to the conversation, combining a PhD in Agronomy and Soil Science with a lifetime of farming experience on his family's multi-generational Colorado farm. He shares how his work as a consultant across more than 100,000 acres has shaped his views on technology adoption and why today's farmers are demanding proven, measurable results before investing in new products.The discussion explores how growers are increasingly conducting their own on-farm trials to validate new technologies and why return on investment has become the deciding factor in purchasing decisions. Chad explains that while farmers have been inundated with new products in recent years, many are now focused on technologies that can consistently improve water-use efficiency and nutrient-use efficiency rather than simply promise yield increases.A major focus of the episode is Green Evolution Technologies' InteliGel hydrogel platform. Chad explains how the technology works by absorbing and storing water and nutrients within the soil profile, making them available to crops during periods of stress. He discusses how the hydrogel can be applied using existing farm equipment, reducing barriers to adoption while fitting into current farming practices.The conversation also dives into field trial results from corn and soybean production systems. Chad shares data from third-party research that demonstrated significant yield improvements and profitability gains, particularly during periods of late-season drought stress. He also discusses the potential for multi-year benefits from a single application, an important factor when evaluating long-term return on investment.Listeners will hear Chad's perspective on the challenges facing ag technology companies, including the common mistake of bringing products to market before they have been fully validated across different environments and management systems. He offers practical advice for growers evaluating new products, emphasizing the importance of establishing clear benchmarks and measuring efficiency improvements over time.Whether you're interested in water management, nutrient efficiency, precision agriculture, or the future of crop production, this episode offers valuable insights into how innovative technologies are helping farmers do more with less while maintaining profitability.Learn more about Green Evolution Technologies and InteliGel by visiting https://greenevolutiontechnologies.com, or send Chad an email with your questions to chad@hydrogel.us.Thank you to Chad Godsey for joining us on North American Ag Spotlight and sharing his expertise on the future of agricultural productivity.Send us Fan MailEcorobotix, together with DFS Finance & AgDirect, is making it easier for growers to access the ARA Ultra High Precision Sprayer. Flexible purchase and lease programs offer competitive rates, deferred payments, and end-of-term options, helping farms cut inputs, reduce labor & boost profitability without straining cash flow. Learn more HERESubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, co-hosts Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois welcome two special guests for a wide-ranging, no-holds-barred interview: Axel Schwan, President of Tim Hortons Canada & U.S., and Duncan Fulton, Chief Corporate Officer of Restaurant Brands International (RBI). With Dunkin' Donuts announcing its return to Canada and Canadians passionately debating the future of their most iconic coffee brand, Axel and Duncan showed up ready to answer the tough questions. In a candid 40-minute conversation, Schwan and Fulton open up about Tim Hortons' "Back to Basics" strategy — the largest consumer research project in the company's history — and the quality overhaul that followed: freshly cracked eggs replacing frozen patties in breakfast sandwiches, 40% more apple in the apple fritter, more Venetian cream in the Boston cream, and the removal of artificial colours, flavours and preservatives across the menu. They share how Tim Hortons serves four million guests a day across 4,000 restaurants owned by 1,500 Canadian franchisees, why traffic is the one metric Axel watches daily, and how the brand is winning younger consumers with its Quenchers platform — including the imminent launch of Popping Quenchers — plus celebrity partnerships with Justin Bieber and Ryan Reynolds. The duo also tackles the controversy head-on: Is the wave of announcements — 400 restaurant renovations, 80 new builds, a national hiring campaign — a reaction to Dunkin's arrival? Fulton sets the record straight on the temporary foreign worker debate, noting roughly 4,000 of 110,000 restaurant team members are part of the program, and explains how AI is being deployed to improve the team member experience, from labour scheduling to order accuracy. A rapid-fire round covers everything from the biggest public misconception about Tim Hortons to the products Canadians want back, while Michael shares his own fun factoid: he helped invent Roll Up the Rim during his Dixie Cup days. But first, we start with the food and agriculture news of the week. Sobeys gets served as the Competition Bureau flexes its new Competition Act powers to investigate property controls in Canadian grocery. We break down Ottawa's newly published AI strategy and what it means for agriculture and food, where Canada's persistent data deficit threatens to undermine even the best intentions. Then, the screwworm fly resurfaces in Texas, prompting the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to take targeted action — and sending cattle futures and already-high beef prices climbing. Sylvain also reports from Delaware, where he keynoted a healthcare conference on food as medicine and discovered a surprising threat to American farmland: hundreds of AI data centres being built on fertile soil. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Omnia Group CEO Seelan Gobalsamy, about the company’s strong FY26 performance, driven by robust growth in its Agriculture and Mining divisions, disciplined capital allocation, solid cash generation, and a R1.2 billion return to shareholders, as the group positions itself for further growth through international expansion, resilient supply chains and improved operational efficiency. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois sit down with Don Hill, Chairman of Sucro, for a rare inside look at one of the most significant investments in Canada's food manufacturing sector in decades. Sucro has quickly become one of North America's fastest-growing sugar companies, and its newly built Ontario refinery marks the first major new sugar-refining investment in Canada in generations. Don explains why Canada became Sucro's first major international investment market, how the company is challenging conventional thinking in a traditionally conservative industry, and why innovation, reinvestment, and operational efficiency are becoming critical competitive advantages in food manufacturing. The conversation explores the strategic role sugar plays in food production beyond sweetness, including shelf life, texture, functionality, product formulation, and cost management. Don also discusses how Sucro is navigating labour shortages, global trade disruptions, tariffs, supply chain volatility, and geopolitical uncertainty while building what he believes is the most modern and competitive sugar refinery in North America. Michael and Sylvain also dive into the impact of GLP-1 weight-loss medications on food consumption with Don, the opportunities and limitations of artificial intelligence in manufacturing, and why Canada remains an attractive destination for food production despite growing trade tensions and policy uncertainty. Don shares his perspective on the future of food manufacturing investment, North American competitiveness, and Sucro's plans for growth over the next decade. Before the interview, the hosts tackle another packed week of food and agriculture news. They discuss Canada's economic outlook and the debate over recession terminology, new research comparing household food spending across G20 countries, and the ongoing rise in food insecurity and food bank usage across Canada. The discussion also covers soaring tomato prices linked to North American trade disruptions, new revelations surrounding the Canada Royal Milk infant formula facility in Kingston, and concerns about transparency within Canada's supply-managed dairy sector. The episode also reflects on Metro CEO Eric La Flèche's retirement announcement, examining his lasting impact on Canadian grocery retailing and congratulating the highly skilled and experienced Marc Giroux on becoming the new CEO. Finally, Michael and Sylvain explore how some farmers are finding new revenue streams through YouTube and digital content creation, demonstrating the remarkable adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit of modern agriculture. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

In today's BizNews Daybreak: Internationally, President Trump cuts agricultural equipment tariffs, Apple introduces an iPhone bill-splitting feature, and Nvidia debuts a $5 trillion PC AI chip. Locally, Free State's community grid takeover triumphs, KZN lags behind in foot-and-mouth vaccinations, and analysts unpack the impeachment pressures facing President Ramaphosa.

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

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, recorded live at SIAL Canada 2026 in Montreal, Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois welcome back Karen Proud, President & Adjudicator of the Canada Grocery Code, for an important conversation about one of the most closely watched structural reforms in the Canadian grocery industry. Only months after the official launch of the Canada Grocery Code, Proud provides an inside look at how the new voluntary, industry-led framework is functioning in its early stages. She explains the mission of the Office of the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct, the rationale behind creating a voluntary code instead of government regulation, and why more than 200 companies have already joined the initiative. Proud discusses how the code is designed to improve business relationships between retailers and suppliers, strengthen transparency, create more predictable contracting practices, and encourage long-term investment and innovation throughout Canada's food supply chain. The conversation explores the challenges of building trust across a fragmented grocery ecosystem while balancing supplier concerns, retailer expectations, and government scrutiny. Proud outlines how her office is approaching compliance, dispute resolution, reporting transparency, and stakeholder engagement while emphasizing that the code is not intended to directly control grocery prices or solve food inflation. Instead, the long-term objective is to create a healthier and more competitive grocery marketplace that ultimately benefits Canadian consumers through increased investment, innovation, and product diversity. Before the interview, Michael and Sylvain dive deep into the rapidly rising price of chicken in Canada, examining how supply management, quota allocation challenges, and surging consumer demand are contributing to record levels of poultry imports from the United States and beyond. They debate whether the current system is adequately responding to shifting protein demand as consumers move away from expensive beef toward chicken. The episode also explores Quebec's decision to permanently remove sales tax from certain grocery categories, growing concerns among Canadian beef producers over potential trade negotiations involving South American imports, and how global instability, drought conditions, and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz are beginning to impact grain and wheat prices worldwide. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

2025 kam in Deutschland zum ersten Mal mehr Strom von der Sonne als aus Braunkohle. Mit Agri-Photovoltaik soll das noch mehr werden. Auf derselben Anbaufläche werden dabei Nutzpflanzen angebaut und Solarstrom erzeugt. Astrid Meisoll im Gespräch mit Tim Krieger, Professor für Ordnungs- und Wettbewerbspolitik, Universität Freiburg

Taylor Gibson joined us this morning to chat this weekend's Summer Kickoff at the Melville Agri-Park.

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

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, our interview is recorded live at SIAL Canada 2026 in Montreal. Michael LeBlanc welcomes one of the most influential executives in global consumer packaged goods: Jessica C. Adelman, Mars Snacking North America. Fresh off Mars' massive $36 billion acquisition of Kellanova, Adelman offers a rare inside look at the strategic thinking behind one of the largest CPG transactions in history. She explains how Mars — now a $86+ billion privately held global powerhouse operating across more than 80 countries — is reshaping itself into a modern snacking giant with iconic brands spanning M&M's, Snickers, Skittles, Pringles, Pop-Tarts, Cheez-It, and more. The conversation dives deep into how large food companies are navigating a radically different operating environment shaped by geopolitical volatility, inflation, climate pressures, AI disruption, and changing consumer behaviour. Adelman shares Mars' approach to resilience, reputation management, and long-term strategic planning in an era where business shocks arrive faster and harder than ever before. She also discusses why Mars continues investing heavily in North American manufacturing, including a recent $180 million investment across Ontario facilities. Michael and Jessica explore the transformative impact of AI across food retail and supply chains, from reducing food waste and optimizing logistics to enabling consumer discovery and personalization. They also examine how GLP-1 weight-loss drugs are changing eating habits, portion sizes, and snack consumption patterns — a growing issue every major food manufacturer is now monitoring closely. The interview also touches on sustainability, food system resilience, consumer affordability, and the evolving role of global brands in helping consumers balance value, convenience, nutrition, and enjoyment. Throughout the discussion, Adelman offers a thoughtful perspective on leadership, agility, and why companies must move beyond simply “playing the hits” to remain relevant in a rapidly changing marketplace. But first, Michael and Sylvain Charlebois tackle another packed week in food and agriculture news. The hosts debate Ontario's emerging “6% milk” trend, the accelerating adoption of GLP-1 drugs across Canada thanks to the launch of a generic pill format, and renewed calls (along with the history and original objectives) to overhaul Canada's confusing best-before date system to combat food waste and improve affordability. They also discuss food theft and organized crime concerns in grocery retail, mounting pressure on Atlantic Canada's oyster industry, mushroom trade tensions with the United States, the definition of food deserts in urban Canada, and the critical importance of grain infrastructure in Atlantic Canada and a world awash in Bourbon. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

On this episode of The Country Podcast brought to you by Ballance Agri-Nutrients, Hamish McKay sits down with Ballance CEO Kelvin Wickham to unpack global fertiliser volatility, supply chain pressures, and what it all means for Kiwi farmers. After hearing directly from farmers across the country, Ballance is shaping a plan for the future - focused on productivity, supply security, and long-term success. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Agri Western Cape’s CEO, Jannie Strydom, talks to John Maytham about the impact of the recent storms on farms in the Western Cape. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, recorded live from the West Coast, Syvain in Chilliwack, Michael in L.A., begin with a fast-moving roundup of the biggest food, grocery, and agriculture headlines shaping Canada. First, the hosts unpack Dunkin's return to Canada and debate where the iconic brand could fit in a market dominated by Tim Hortons and McDonald's. They also explore major developments in Canada's greenhouse sector, dairy production policy, and the growing demand for dairy proteins as producers respond to changing consumer habits. The conversation then turns to some of the most consequential policy issues impacting food prices and agriculture today, including climate science, industrial carbon pricing, Canadian counter-tariffs, and what new signals from the Bank of Canada could mean for grocery inflation, farm economics, and consumer affordability. Michael and Sylvain offer their unfiltered analysis on government policy, food security, and how unintended consequences continue to ripple across Canadian households. Then, the episode shifts into a compelling long-form interview with Kim Furlong, CEO of Retail Council of Canada. In one of her first major podcast interviews since assuming the role, Kim provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the realities of modern retail in Canada. She discusses stepping into the leadership role previously held by industry icon Diane Brisebois, and explains why the grocery business remains one of the most misunderstood sectors in the country. Kim breaks down why Canadians often “see the shelf, but not the supply chain,” revealing the upstream pressures—from transportation and labour costs to energy prices and currency fluctuations—that shape food prices long before products ever reach store shelves. She also tackles some of retail's hottest issues, including algorithmic pricing, surveillance pricing concerns, the Grocery Code of Conduct, AI-driven supply chains, domestic sourcing, Buy Canadian momentum, and how retailers are preparing for a future defined by geopolitical disruption, economic volatility, and changing consumer expectations. We also hear about Michael's visit to Laurel Supply, a new bespoke grocery store in West Hollywood that could be the most beautiful grocery store in America, thanks to the amazing work of Kevin Kelley's Shook Kelley retail design firm. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

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

n this latest episode of The Food Professor Podcast, recorded live inside the podcast fishbowl at SIAL Canada 2026 in Montreal, Michael LeBlanc and Sylvain Charlebois welcome one of the most exciting entrepreneurs in Canadian food innovation: Santiago Stacey. Fresh off winning SIAL's prestigious Gold Innovation Award, Santiago shares the remarkable story behind Ku Na Na, creator of Canada's first plant-based banana milk made from 100% rescued, upcycled bananas. Born in Ecuador—the world's largest exporter of bananas—Santiago witnessed firsthand how millions of bananas are discarded simply for failing to meet cosmetic standards. That insight sparked a mission to create not just a beverage, but a better food system. Joined by innovation jury co-president  Isabelle Marquis, the conversation explores why Ku Na Na stood out among more than 320 entrants. From sustainability and nutrition to taste, convenience, and commercial viability, this product hits every major trend shaping the future of food. Santiago also reveals his expansion plans across Ontario, Quebec, and beyond, while sharing why banana milk could become the next major plant-based category. But first, Michael and Sylvain break down the week's biggest food and agriculture headlines. The hosts unpack Canada's push toward regulatory modernization and why reducing bureaucratic layering could be critical for food innovation, entrepreneurship, and national food security. They examine troubling new data on Canada's restaurant industry, with margin compression and closures accelerating in key markets like Ontario and Quebec. The conversation also dives into controversial moves by pharmacies in Quebec to pull energy drinks from shelves, AI-powered drive-thrus rolling out at Dairy Queen, and a deeply emotional discussion about dairy farmer mental health and the economic realities facing agricultural producers across North America. https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/03/us/dairy-farm-butter-ridge-pennsylvania.html?unlocked_article_code=1.gVA.Xwqj.Qig6BXd4EEKQ&smid=url-share About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

BUSINESS: Agri output dips in Q1 | May 7, 2026Subscribe to The Manila Times Channel - https://tmt.ph/YTSubscribe Visit our website at https://www.manilatimes.net Follow us: Facebook - https://tmt.ph/facebook Instagram - https://tmt.ph/instagram Twitter - https://tmt.ph/twitter DailyMotion - https://tmt.ph/dailymotion Subscribe to our Digital Edition - https://tmt.ph/digital Check out our Podcasts: Spotify - https://tmt.ph/spotify Apple Podcasts - https://tmt.ph/applepodcasts Amazon Music - https://tmt.ph/amazonmusic Deezer: https://tmt.ph/deezer Stitcher: https://tmt.ph/stitcher Tune In: https://tmt.ph/tunein #TheManilaTimes #KeepUpWithTheTimes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

Latino-House 2.0

Rusty Halvorson and Sarah Heinrich share the week's top stories in local, regional and national agriculture developments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ sits down with Suvankar Mishra and Stefan Jacob, co-founders of FLO FUND, a fintech platform on a mission to close the $170 billion financing gap facing smallholder farmers in the Global South. The conversation unpacks why traditional banks have failed these farmers, how value chain financing is changing the game, and why the food on your table in Europe or North America is directly tied to whether a farmer in Kenya or India can access a simple loan. With deep field experience across Asia, Africa, and India, Suvankar and Stefan explain how FLO FUND uses real-time agricultural data and digital infrastructure to provide crop-linked, insured lending and why this is not a charity case, but a sound investment in the global food system. Four Key Takeaways: The Financing Gap Is Massive, and Personal (3:40) There are over 500 million smallholder farmers feeding one-third to one-half of the world's population, yet they can't access basic credit. FLO FUND is targeting a $170 billion annual financing shortfall that banks won't touch. Value Chain Financing Is the Real Solution (18:27) Increasingly, farmers aren't getting loans from banks — they're getting them from processors, co-ops, and agribusiness actors in their own value chains. FLO FUND plugs into these existing relationships to inject liquidity at multiple points in the chain, not just at the farm gate. Technology Has Evolved Enough to Make This Work (30:12) Earlier fintech attempts in this space failed because they used alternative data (like mobile recharge behavior) to justify predatory interest rates. FLO FUND leverages mature digital agricultural infrastructure — soil sensors, real-time crop data, and established digital ecosystems — to structure fair, insured, asset-backed lending. Your Food Security Depends on These Farmers (35:31) 90% of macadamia nuts consumed in Europe come from Kenya. 60–70% of global cocoa comes from West Africa. Climate change is accelerating risk in these supply chains. If the Global North doesn't invest in smallholder farmer access to finance, it will pay the price in food scarcity, rising prices, and healthcare costs. Quote of the Show (47:59):"We're not here to provide financing on the basis of default behavior. We're here to provide financing based on integrity."— Suvankar Mishra, co-founder of FLO FUND Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with Suvankar Mishra and Stefan Jacob: Suvankar’s LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/suvankarmishraStefan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanjacob/Company Website: https://www.theflo.uk/ How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Representatives of the rice industry appealed to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to mount a trade probe into unfair trade practices in the international rice market. President Trump offered mixed messages on trade negotiations with Iran today as the ceasefire deadline draws near. The USDA reported corn and soybean planting progress above the average pace today. 

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

New research suggests that dredging is affecting water quality in Lough Neagh. Scientists from Queen's University Belfast believe that commercial dredging for sand which is widespread across the Lough has a deeper more harmful impact on ecosystems than originally thought. Serious concerns have been raised about weaknesses at Northern Ireland's Agri-food and Bio-sciences Institute. A report from the Health and Safety Executive highlighted issues with bio containment and the condition of the facilities. AFBI is an arm's length government body which carries out scientific research and also testing for diseases like bluetongue. The HSE report said that at the time of the inspection that testing was unsafe, with measures required to protect the environment. The Institute says action has been taken to 'to drive improvements and address all issues raised.'All this week we've been hearing from our National Parks, and today is the turn of Northumberland, covering much of Hadrian's Wall and the vast Cheviot Hills, it sells itself as home to England's cleanest rivers and darkest skies. It's also the least visited and one of the most remote of the National Parks in England and Wales. Rural churches are a hotspot for theft and vandalism according to a new report from the Countryside Alliance. It got data from 37 police forces across the UK which shows that last year nearly 4,000 crimes at churches were recorded, in urban and rural areas, however it says churches in villages and countryside areas are particularly vulnerable.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

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