Podcasts about h2a

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Visit Sanders-Brown Center on Aging. Read Full Article: Click Here Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this episode of The Wright Report, Bryan reports on the identification of fallen US service members killed in Iranian strikes on Jordan and Iraq, as the Houthis declare a new war on Saudi shipping in the Red Sea. Bryan covers the deepening Middle East conflict, including intel suggesting Iran has hidden nuclear centrifuges deep inside Pickaxe Mountain, soaring bonuses for sailors willing to risk the Strait of Hormuz, and the collapse of Trump's Gaza rebuilding plan. He also breaks down a wave of domestic unrest, including a Leftist firebombing of a federal building in New York City and a mass shooting in Tucson. Plus, Bryan covers a brewing GOP fight over a farm-worker amnesty bill, Gov. Tim Walz's defense of his pardon of a convicted child rapist, a Communist podcaster's fiery speech to College Democrats, China's growing footprint on America's roads and rare-earth supply chains, and encouraging new research on coffee, collagen, and Alzheimer's. "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32   Keywords: Wright Report, Bryan Dean Wright, Iran war, Jordan, Iraq, Houthis, Red Sea, Strait of Hormuz, Pickaxe Mountain, Gaza, NYC firebombing, Zohran Mamdani, Tucson shooting, Tim Walz, H-2A visa, China, BYD, rare earth magnets, Alzheimer's

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

An escalation in the war between Ukraine and Russia helped move wheat futures higher. The situation has the potential to impact global commodity prices. Agri-Pulse Newsmakers features Cathy Burns of the International Fresh Produce Association who supports proposed revisions to H2A and warns of challenges from state food packaging regulations. 

America's Dairyland has had a problem. It's estimated that dairy operations have an estimated 5,000-10,000 year-round immigrant laborers, rather than temporary seasonal visa holders, that help keep cows milked and fed. There's no federal work program that applies to that unique situation. Recently the U.S. Dept. of Labor announced some clarification on H2A governance and how it can be used. It clarified that dairies should qualify for that tool. Sam Moheban, immigration attorney at Ruder Ware law firm in Wausau, says that's good news but shouldn't lull dairies into a false sense of security. Pam Jahnke finds out what he means. Over 2 inches of rain reported in places like Belgium, Valders and the Green Bay area yesterday. Stu Muck says that moisture is leaving after today, but heat is right behind it. Muck say we'll easily be back in the 90's by the weekend. Over 700 youth from 44 states and Canada, plus around 2,000 head of cattle are making the Junior National Hereford Show a success in Madison. A mom and Hereford enthusiast from Lancast, WI, is keeping things rolling. Kiley Allan talks with Jaclyn Bevans, board member of National Hereford Women, about the benefits exhibitors see beyond the ribbons and trophy's. Bevans puts the accents on the family time spent preparing animals, and the skills youth participants are picking up in the 1400 skill based contests they've held this week too. HoHum. That sums up the dairy market story lately. Why won't if budge? Ryan Yonkman, vice president of EverAg, joins Pam Jahnke to talk it through. Yonkman says consumer demand is flat at best. Pizza sales have continued to slip, and the European Union is giving the U.S. plenty of price competition. The good news is that U.S. dairy product continues to move in the export space, but will it continue. Yonkman says a lot will depend on how the "holiday" buying season ramps up in the next few weeks. He notes that schools will be starting to come back online in August, and the Labor Day holiday can be an indication of early holiday demand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Major livestock groups are applauding new legislation that would expand the H-2A guest worker program to year-round agriculture, and President signs executive order temporarily suspending countervailing duties applied to imported phosphate.

This week's Open Mic guest is Mike Joyner, President of the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association. At a time when more Americans are turning more health conscious by adding fruits and vegetables to their diets, many of the nation's specialty crop growers are struggling to survive. Joyner says the volume of imports from Mexico and other countries continues to grow, depressing opportunities for domestic growers. Specialty crop growers face ongoing challenges in finding an adequate workforce and support legislative efforts to revise the nation's H-2A regulations. Joyner says specialty crop growers need better crop insurance coverage options and hope future assistance programs are more equitable for fruit and vegetable farmers. 

On today's episode of the AgNet News Hour, two major issues shaping agriculture's future took center stage: efforts to modernize the nation's farm labor system and new USDA initiatives designed to strengthen American agriculture. American Farm Bureau Federation Vice President of Public Policy and Economic Analysis John Newton discussed bipartisan legislation aimed at reforming the H-2A guest worker program, while USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Richard Fordyce outlined several federal initiatives supporting farmers and ranchers. Newton said agriculture has gone more than four decades without meaningful updates to its labor system, making the recently introduced Securing Agricultural Workforce Act one of the most significant labor proposals in years. The bipartisan legislation would provide greater certainty for growers by creating a more predictable H-2A wage formula while expanding visa eligibility for year-round agricultural sectors such as dairy. He pointed to recent Farm Bureau data showing that agriculture's labor shortage remains severe. During fiscal year 2025, growers submitted more than 415,000 H-2A applications, while only 182 domestic workers applied for those positions. "That shows these are jobs Americans simply are not filling," Newton explained, adding that reliable access to legal agricultural labor remains essential for maintaining the nation's food supply. Newton also urged lawmakers to continue work on a new Farm Bill, year-round E15 legislation, disaster assistance, and economic support for farmers facing elevated production costs. He encouraged growers to stay engaged with members of Congress while legislators are home during the July recess. The program's second featured interview focused on USDA priorities with Richard Fordyce, Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation. Fordyce discussed USDA's newly announced SPUR initiative, designed to strengthen small and medium-sized beef processors that play an important role in local and regional food systems. He said supporting independent processors now will help ensure sufficient processing capacity as the nation's cattle herd begins rebuilding from historically low levels. Fordyce also provided an update on USDA's response to the New World screwworm, saying the department is expanding sterile fly production while working closely with Mexican officials to prevent the pest from spreading farther north. He expressed confidence that increased surveillance and coordinated international efforts will successfully push the pest back toward southern Mexico. Another topic of discussion was implementation of provisions contained in the recently passed federal reconciliation package. Fordyce said USDA is moving quickly to implement improvements affecting crop insurance, disaster assistance, conservation programs, and the agricultural safety net. "I think the provisions in this legislation are historic for agriculture," Fordyce said, noting the package expands producers' ability to purchase stronger crop insurance coverage while improving several long-standing farm programs. Fordyce also emphasized USDA's continued commitment to California agriculture, recognizing the state's unmatched diversity of crops and encouraging growers to remain engaged with USDA programs and resources available through Farmers.gov and local USDA service centers. Together, the interviews highlighted two of agriculture's most pressing priorities: ensuring farmers have access to a dependable workforce while strengthening the federal programs that help producers manage risk, invest in their operations, and remain competitive in an increasingly challenging farm economy. Listen to the full interview below or on your favorite podcast app.

House Ag Committee Chairman Glenn "GT" Thompson introduced the Save Agriculture's Workforce Act this week. He comes to the studio to discuss how it would significantly expand and modernize the H-2A agricultural guest worker program. Plus, USDA APHIS Undersecretary Dudley Hoskins provides an update on New World screwworm response and the factors being considered to reopen the Southern border to cattle imports.Want to receive Newsmakers in your inbox every week? Sign up! http://eepurl.com/hTgSAD

The American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall highlights the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act as a key solution to the farm labor shortage, emphasizing the need for a year-round workforce. The bill, introduced by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn Thompson, aims to expand the H-2A guest worker program and modernize farm labor systems.

Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act of 2026 would broaden access to H-2A workers, and agricultural groups are urging the Senate Ag Committee to include language in their final bill to address the problems caused by California's Proposition 12.

Stories on today's show include:-House Ag Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson says his new ag labor bill opens the door for U.S. dairy farmers to have access to the H-2A program.-U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley says President Trump made the right call to lift countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizer from Morocco.-A trade expert with the American Farm Bureau Federation says the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement has moved into uncharted territory.-Purdue University Extension's corn agronomist says recent high humidity and saturated soils have created optimal conditions for disease development.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Wisconsin Ag Secretary, Randy Romanski, joins Pam Jahnke in the studio to present a 5 year update on how the WI Ag Export Council's been performing and what progress has been made. Romanski says Wisconsin's dairy exports grew 35% from 2021 to 2025 (the timeframe the program's been in place). He also notes that the Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports program generated a 200-to-1 return on investment for Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association members in the most recent reporting year. It all bodes well, hopefully, for the continuation of the programs. Beautiful weekend on the way for the final gasp of June dairy events. Stu Muck will be a part of those and paints a pretty decent forecast through the weekend. He's also got cautionary advice to prepare for heat and humidity beginning on Monday. From a dream to reality. Meet Brad Laack from rural Plymouth, WI. He grew up a little removed from agriculture, but found his passion helping to raise beef animals that were designed to make hay disappear. Once Laack got involved in that, the dream of building his own farming operation started to hatch. Today, Pam Jahnke visits with Brad at his cash grain and custom operator business just outside of Plymouth. Over the last year, Brad has taken the next step to elevate his grain handling abilities with the partnership of Schultz's Interstate Ag in Monroe. Laack says the time they've taken to work through specific details that he was concerned about have solidified this partnership. Today, Laack and Schultz's Interstate Ag are getting ready for the next phase of grain handling equipment and bins to be installed. Paid for by Schultz's Interstate Ag. This week Wisconsin dairy operator's got a little good news in the way of a memorandum from the White House. Pam Jahnke visits with Sam Moheban, immigration specialist with Ruder Ware law firm in Wausau. The memorandum made clear that dairies that relay of foreign labor to keep things rolling should be sure they're following all the rules and guidelines within the H2A program. Moheban says while it's not a silver bullet, it does make clear the direction the administration wants agencies to follow.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite the claims by some that H-2A foreign guestworkers are taking jobs from American workers, the numbers don't back them up.

Ag tech is moving faster than the laws can keep up. In this episode, Wendell sits down with Kayla Jenkins from Beck's Hybrids to discuss the critical intersection of modern farming, emerging technology, and government policy. We dive headfirst into the rise of AI in precision agriculture, state-level drone legislation threats, and the legal battles surrounding the H-2A program. Kayla shares an inside look from the state capital on how lawmakers view your operation, why public perception is shifting, and what farmers need to do to protect their right to spray, fly, and farm efficiently. Key Takeaways:  Why policymakers are targeting agricultural drones. Breaking down the H-2A farm labor program updates. Gene editing vs. GMOs: Educating the modern consumer. High-oleic soybean oil (SOYLEIC) and the future of domestic seed oils.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn "GT" Thompson (R-Pa.) has announced his intention to introduce the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act on June 30. The legislation directly addresses ongoing agricultural labor challenges through three main pillars: expanding access, controlling costs, and streamlining operations.In this episode, we explore how this legislation addresses the agricultural labor crisis by reforming the H-2A visa program. Mike Wenkel, Chief Operating Officer of the National Potato Council, breaks down the bill's three main pillars: expanding labor access, controlling Adverse Effect Wage Rate costs and streamlining federal regulations. Brett Jensen, NPC Vice President of Trade Affairs and owner of Brett Jensen Farms in Idaho Falls, Idaho, joins the conversation to share his firsthand experience running an operation that has relied on H-2A workers for 25 years.  

Georgia Ag Commissioner announces enhanced interstate animal movement requirements for all warm-blooded animals entering Georgia from Texas, and the H-2A ag worker program continues to grow, with the DOL certifying 17% more jobs in the first half of fiscal 2026 than last year.

Rising farm labor costs and depressed crop prices have pushed California farmers to seek labor-saving technology to remain financially viable, and the H-2A ag worker program continues to grow, with the DOL certifying 17% more jobs in the first half of fiscal 2026 than last year.

Tudor Dixon is joined by Kyle Olson, founder of The Midwesterner, to discuss a shocking labor trafficking case that federal prosecutors described as a modern-day slavery operation. The two examine how a criminal organization allegedly exploited foreign workers through the H-2A visa program, generating hundreds of millions of dollars while subjecting thousands to harsh working conditions. They also explore the broader debate surrounding immigration enforcement, labor shortages, border security, and the role of ICE in combating human trafficking and worker exploitation. Tudor and Kyle question why stories involving labor abuse receive limited media attention and discuss the political implications heading into the 2026 midterm elections. The conversation then shifts to the Democratic Party’s internal divisions, examining growing tensions over socialism, national identity, foreign policy, and party leadership. They analyze polling trends, the rise of progressive candidates, and what these ideological battles could mean for future elections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While a federal district court recently upheld the Trump administration's revised wage rule for H-2A ag workers, farmers and ag groups are concerned that the current rates could be reversed or drastically amended by a future administration.

Driscoll's CEO says weather volatility, rising regulations, labor concerns, and water challenges continue shaping the future of California's specialty crop industry, even as consumer demand for berries remains strong. Driscoll's Chief Executive Officer Soren Bjorn recently joined AgNet News Hour to discuss the current berry season, the company's growth, and the challenges facing specialty crop growers throughout California and beyond. According to Bjorn, California's strawberry season has been unusual due to weather patterns that disrupted normal production schedules. An early heat wave followed by cooler and wetter conditions shifted harvest timing, creating supply challenges across key growing regions. “We had a way too many strawberries in March and April, and now we don't have enough,” Bjorn explained, noting that the timing of production has created market complications for growers and retailers. Driscoll's, a family-owned company approaching its 75th anniversary, works with approximately 1,000 growers worldwide and sells berries in roughly 65 countries. The company's business model centers on developing proprietary berry varieties, producing plants through its nursery system, and partnering with growers who produce the fruit. While strawberries remain the company's signature crop, Bjorn highlighted continued growth across the berry category, particularly blueberries. Consumer demand for fresh berries continues to rise as shoppers increasingly seek healthier food choices. “The whole category is really where consumers want to be,” Bjorn said. “It's healthy, it's convenient, and consumers today are making choices to live a healthier lifestyle.” Bjorn also addressed California's regulatory environment, describing it as one of the most significant challenges facing specialty crop producers. He emphasized that many specialty crops cannot simply relocate to other states because California's climate provides ideal growing conditions. “The best place in the world to grow strawberries is in California,” Bjorn said. “We can't move it somewhere else.” In addition to regulatory concerns, Bjorn pointed to labor, housing, and water availability as ongoing issues. While he noted improvements in the federal H-2A guest worker program, affordable farmworker housing remains difficult to develop, particularly in California's coastal production regions. Water management also varies dramatically by region. Bjorn explained that growers in Watsonville, Santa Maria, and Ventura County each face different water supply realities, requiring localized solutions to maintain long-term agricultural viability. The CEO also discussed organic production, noting that Driscoll's accounts for more than half of organic berry sales in North America. However, organic strawberries can cost 30 to 35 percent more to produce than conventional berries, creating economic challenges despite growing consumer demand. Bjorn said future success will depend on balancing sustainability goals with practical farming realities, particularly when it comes to crop protection tools and biological alternatives to traditional pesticides. He stressed that innovation must keep pace with regulatory changes to ensure growers remain profitable and productive. Beyond policy issues, Bjorn encouraged agriculture to do a better job telling its story to consumers and community leaders. He believes many misconceptions about farming can be addressed through education and direct engagement with the public. As California agriculture continues navigating regulatory, labor, and environmental pressures, Bjorn said maintaining profitable farms remains the ultimate priority. “There is nothing I'm more worried about in my job every day than making sure the growers we work with can be successful for another generation or two,” he said.

Host Malcolm Harris rides "solo dolo" for a jam-packed Wednesday edition of What the Truck, touted as the fastest 45 minutes in freight. The episode covers breaking logistics headlines and features two insightful interviews focused on the future of freight technology, automation, and the operational realities of electric trucking.• Global X Airlines Dispute: A look into an unusual internal battle where the airline has accused a shareholder of actively working against its growing cargo operations.• CDL Updates in Texas and Ohio:Texas has resumed issuing non-domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) to temporary H-2A agricultural farmworkers following federal approval.Ohio is reviewing roughly 5,000 nonresidential CDLs to ensure compliance with strict new federal standards and verification practices. Travis Rhyan joins Malcolm in-studio to share lessons from his extensive background in FreightTech and discuss why he left his executive role at MyCarrier to build Carrier1 from scratch. Travis explains that carriers have historically been underserved by technology, noting that a shocking percentage still rely on outdated legacy systems (like IBM mainframes from 1995) or no TMS at all. His mission is to bring automation to carriers to ultimately eliminate the chaotic web of emails and phone calls for brokers. Joining the show from Berlin, Germany, Manhattan-native Graham Major-Ex explains how Sennder has become a top-five full-truckload freight forwarder in Europe (generating $1 billion in revenue) through strategic acquisitions like Uber Freight Europe and C.H. Robinson's European surface transport division. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor - KOONER FLEET MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Malcolm Harris rides "solo dolo" for a jam-packed Wednesday edition of What the Truck, touted as the fastest 45 minutes in freight. The episode covers breaking logistics headlines and features two insightful interviews focused on the future of freight technology, automation, and the operational realities of electric trucking.• Global X Airlines Dispute: A look into an unusual internal battle where the airline has accused a shareholder of actively working against its growing cargo operations.• CDL Updates in Texas and Ohio:Texas has resumed issuing non-domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) to temporary H-2A agricultural farmworkers following federal approval.Ohio is reviewing roughly 5,000 nonresidential CDLs to ensure compliance with strict new federal standards and verification practices. Travis Rhyan joins Malcolm in-studio to share lessons from his extensive background in FreightTech and discuss why he left his executive role at MyCarrier to build Carrier1 from scratch. Travis explains that carriers have historically been underserved by technology, noting that a shocking percentage still rely on outdated legacy systems (like IBM mainframes from 1995) or no TMS at all. His mission is to bring automation to carriers to ultimately eliminate the chaotic web of emails and phone calls for brokers.Joining the show from Berlin, Germany, Manhattan-native Graham Major-Ex explains how Sennder has become a top-five full-truckload freight forwarder in Europe (generating $1 billion in revenue) through strategic acquisitions like Uber Freight Europe and C.H. Robinson's European surface transport division.  Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor - KOONER FLEET MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal judge denied a United Farm Workers' request to temporarily block the Trump administration's revised wage rule for H-2A workers.

Katie Nunez grew up in Iberville Parish as part of a fourth-generation sugarcane farming family, with Farm Bureau woven into nearly every part of her life. Today, she serves in several leadership roles with Louisiana Farm Bureau and American Farm Bureau, while also helping farmers navigate H-2A labor paperwork and supporting workers who are often facing their own stress far from home.In this episode of the Louisiana Farm Bureau Podcast, Allie Shipley sits down with Katie as part of our Mental Health Month series and the Cultivating Connection initiative. Katie opens up about the pressure farming families carry, the pain of her family's farm changing, the stress of business ownership, motherhood, adoption and raising a child with special needs. She also shares how therapy, medication and honest conversations have helped her better understand her own mental health.Katie's message is simple but powerful: farmers are used to calling someone when a truck breaks down, and that same Farm Bureau family is there when a person is breaking down, too. Everyone's story is different, and everyone's solution may look different, but nobody has to carry the weight alone.If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.Show Notes:Louisiana Farm Bureau's Cultivating Connection website with mental health resources.American Farm Bureau's Farm State of Mind websiteFind a Louisiana Farm Bureau office in your parish here.Become a member of Louisiana Farm Bureau today.

The DOJ is intensifying its investigation into possible antitrust violations in the beef packing industry, and a federal judge in California has denied a request by the United Farm Workers to temporarily block the Trump administration's revised wage rule for H-2A workers.

Ag-employers have been calling for changes to the H-2A foreign guestworker visa program for years, with few results.

In this episode, we kick things off by examining a major freight broker navigating a brutally tough first quarter but projecting a significant turnaround ahead. RXO released its earnings Thursday morning, reporting a first-quarter adjusted EBITDA of just six million dollars, down sharply from twenty-two million dollars a year earlier. Despite compressed margins, the company aggressively shifted its strategy by increasing its spot mix to thirty-three percent of volume, helping produce what RXO described as the largest sequential increase in gross profit per load in more than three years. Looking ahead, the broker is forecasting a much stronger second quarter with adjusted EBITDA expected to land between twenty-seven million dollars and thirty-seven million dollars. Next, we explore the trade sector where billions of dollars in tariff refunds are finally beginning to flow through a newly launched federal portal. U.S. Customs and Border Protection rolled out its Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries tool, known as CAPE, on April twentieth within the Automated Commercial Environment portal. The digital platform is processing claims far more efficiently than anticipated, with refunds potentially arriving in early May. However, a massive readiness gap is emerging, as CBP estimates roughly forty-six billion dollars in refunds is currently stalled for importers that have not completed ACH refund authorization or established proper portal access. Finally, we cover a controversial regulation governing commercial driver's licenses as a federal court denied a request to block the rule for non-domiciled drivers on Tuesday. A three-judge panel in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia denied a motion seeking to stay enforcement of FMCSA's rule, which became effective March sixteenth and specifies that non-domiciled CDLs are available only to H-2A, H-2B, and E-2 visa holders, excluding asylum seekers, asylees, DACA recipients, refugees, and people with temporary protected status. While the stay was denied, the combined cases will move forward with petitioners' briefs due June fifteenth and oral arguments expected in September. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation with Shelby Watson Hampton, the first Maryland and first vineyard guest, describes her family's five-acre estate vineyard and on-farm winery (six grape varieties; planted 2014; winery opened 2017) where they grow, harvest, process, bottle, and sell wine, plus a wedding barn converted from horse stables. Her husband manages the vineyard and works for the county soil conservation district; they have a four-year-old son and she is pregnant with their second child. Shelby explains vineyard labor, harvest timing, and staffing without H-2A, compares agritourism realities, and shares her family's farm evolution from tobacco and hogs (since 1955) to a tree nursery and early agritourism, then to the current business after her grandfather's death. She advises on succession planning, zoning/permitting for agritourism, recommends NAFDMA, discusses winery sales/shipping, wedding mishaps, her 2023 book “Grace, Grit, and Lipstick,” parenting challenges, and a recent loss of six pet chickens to a dog.We're glad you're joining us for another episode of Barnyard Language. If you enjoy the show, please tell a friend (or two) and be sure to rate and review us wherever you're listening! If you want to help us keep buying coffee and paying our editor, you can make a monthly pledge on Patreon to help us stay on the air. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as BarnyardLanguage, and if you'd like to connect with other farming families, you can join our private Barnyard Language Facebook group. We're always in search of future guests for the podcast. If you or someone you know would like to chat with us, get in touch.If you have a something you'd like to Cuss & Discuss, you can submit it here: speakpipe.com/barnyardlanguage or email us at barnyardlanguage@gmail.com.

In this episode, we kick things off by examining a major freight broker navigating a brutally tough first quarter but projecting a significant turnaround ahead. RXO released its earnings Thursday morning, reporting a first-quarter adjusted EBITDA of just six million dollars, down sharply from twenty-two million dollars a year earlier. Despite compressed margins, the company aggressively shifted its strategy by increasing its spot mix to thirty-three percent of volume, helping produce what RXO described as the largest sequential increase in gross profit per load in more than three years. Looking ahead, the broker is forecasting a much stronger second quarter with adjusted EBITDA expected to land between twenty-seven million dollars and thirty-seven million dollars. Next, we explore the trade sector where billions of dollars in tariff refunds are finally beginning to flow through a newly launched federal portal. U.S. Customs and Border Protection rolled out its Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries tool, known as CAPE, on April twentieth within the Automated Commercial Environment portal. The digital platform is processing claims far more efficiently than anticipated, with refunds potentially arriving in early May. However, a massive readiness gap is emerging, as CBP estimates roughly forty-six billion dollars in refunds is currently stalled for importers that have not completed ACH refund authorization or established proper portal access. Finally, we cover a controversial regulation governing commercial driver's licenses as a federal court denied a request to block the rule for non-domiciled drivers on Tuesday. A three-judge panel in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia denied a motion seeking to stay enforcement of FMCSA's rule, which became effective March sixteenth and specifies that non-domiciled CDLs are available only to H-2A, H-2B, and E-2 visa holders, excluding asylum seekers, asylees, DACA recipients, refugees, and people with temporary protected status. While the stay was denied, the combined cases will move forward with petitioners' briefs due June fifteenth and oral arguments expected in September. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A major change to a federal farmworker visa program known as H-2A is sparking a heated debate across California. The program allows farms to bring in temporary workers from other countries, but a change from the Trump administration has altered how they are paid, sparking a lawsuit from the United Farmworkers Union. Supporters say it's a lifeline for farmers facing rising labor costs. Critics call it a wage cut that could push local workers out of the fields. Reporter: Madi Bolanos, The California Report A man who was shot multiple times by immigration agents last month in the Central California community of Patterson pleaded not guilty Monday to federal charges. San Francisco Assemblymember Matt Haney is trying again to expand drug-free housing for people leaving homelessness, after Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a similar bill last year. A bill moving through the California legislature would require independent evaluations of new education programs, like transitional kindergarten. Reporter: Elly Yu, LAist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Board-Certified Truck Accident Attorney David Craig breaks down Indiana's radical new trucking law where 1,800 commercial drivers just lost their licenses overnight.In this episode of Ask David, David discusses the sweeping changes under Indiana House Enrolled Act 1200, which took effect April 1st. The law emerged after four horrific crashes involving non-domiciled drivers. David explains how the trucking industry's claim of a "driver shortage" led to a massive increase from 316,000 to 720,000 non-domiciled drivers between 2000 and 2021.✔️ What non-domiciled drivers are ✔️ How visa requirements changed for H-2A, H-1B, and E-2 classifications✔️ English proficiency crackdowns✔️ Indiana's ban on foreign language CDL testing✔️ Federal CDL school closures and quality control issues✔️ Criminal penalties: Level 6 felony charges for violationsDavid Craig is one of the few attorneys in the U.S. who is Board-Certified in Truck Accident Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and accredited by the American Bar Association. With 39+ years handling semi-truck wreck cases, he meets rigorous experience, ethics, and knowledge standards to hold trucking companies and unsafe drivers accountable.The four crashes that triggered this legislation represent real families who lost loved ones due to unqualified drivers on Indiana roads. The February Jay County crash alone claimed four lives when a non-domiciled driver with a bad record, working for a company with significant safety violations, caused a fatal wreck.

Emphasizing that certainty is an economic necessity, NCAE President and CEO John Hollay discusses the critical role of the H-2A program and why growers must press Congress for permanent legislative fixes rather than relying solely on regulatory shiftSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the second segment of the fourth hour, Charlie James opened the phone lines to listeners who shared firsthand accounts of the illegal immigration crisis, including a Spartanburg driver's story of public indecency in a school zone and a farmer's perspective on the "modern-day slavery" of the H-2A visa system. The segment also revisited the Strait of Hormuz breakthrough, with a caller questioning the sudden reopening and James explaining how Lloyd's of London and maritime insurance premiums played a pivotal role in the standoff.

Haley Bickelhaupt hosts AgDay: USDA releases its Prospective Planting report for 2025. See how many acres of corn, soybeans, wheat, and cotton surveyors say farmers will be planting this year. Plus, what producers could be seeing when it comes to dealing with H-2A paperwork.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WAFLA CEO, Enrique Gastelum says the AEWR is not the H-2A program's only problem that needs to be addressed.

The AgNet News Hour continued its in-depth conversation with Nisei Farmers League President Manuel Cunha, focusing on one of agriculture's most pressing issues: labor, immigration, and the future of the workforce heading into the 2026 growing season. Cunha highlighted the proposed Dignity Act as a major step toward addressing long-standing labor challenges across agriculture and other industries. The legislation aims to provide legal work authorization for millions of undocumented workers who have been in the U.S. for years, many of whom are already deeply embedded in agricultural operations. “This bill would take care of around 8.7 to 10 million immigrants… hardworking people that have been here 20 to 30 years,” Cunha said. “It's time to give them the dignity they deserve.” Under the proposal, qualifying workers would receive renewable work authorization, allowing them to continue contributing without fear of deportation. Cunha emphasized that many of these individuals played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping maintain the nation's food supply during uncertain times. The discussion also addressed the broader structure of immigration reform. Cunha outlined what he sees as a three-part approach: removing criminal offenders, providing stability for long-term workers, and developing functional guest worker programs tailored to industry needs. “Any criminal… they need to be gone,” Cunha said. “But the person that is here working, paying taxes, part of the community—those are the ones that deserve work authorization.” He also stressed the importance of modernizing visa programs, noting that current systems like H-2A and H-2B are not sufficient to meet the demands of agriculture and other labor-intensive industries. “We need five or six different visa programs that fit industries,” he explained. Despite ongoing debate, Cunha pointed out that labor conditions in agriculture have improved significantly over the decades. At the same time, growers continue to face mounting challenges, including regulatory pressure, high costs, and water limitations—particularly in California, where reduced water allocations have impacted production and workforce dynamics. Interestingly, Cunha noted that current labor availability appears relatively stable heading into the season, partly due to reduced acreage on the West Side from water restrictions. “Right now, the labor market looks good,” he said, adding that workforce numbers have slightly increased in some areas. Beyond federal policy, Cunha also underscored the importance of state leadership. With California's upcoming gubernatorial election, he called the moment “extremely important” for agriculture and rural communities, citing concerns over regulatory overreach and rising costs. Ultimately, Cunha urged unity across agriculture, encouraging farmers, communities, and policymakers to work together toward practical solutions. “We all need to work together and protect each other,” he said.

A bill by Washington Democrat Pramila Jayapal has been introduced into the House of Representatives that could make the H-2A visa program more challenging.

El gobierno Trump impulsa una polémica reforma para las visas H-2A después de que la zona oeste del país se ha quedado sin trabajadores agrícolas debido a las redadas migratorias.  En otras noticias: Millones de personas en Estados Unidos en el medio oeste y el este del país están bajo alerta por el mal tiempo. Una mega tormenta invernal está causando estragos con nieve, vientos y tornados.  Mientras tanto el oeste del país enfrenta una fuerte ola de calor con temperaturas récord.  El viceprimer ministro de Cuba informó que los cubanos que viven en Miami y otros lugares podrán invertir y ser dueños de negocios en la isla, sin embargo la propuesta no ha caído bien. El presidente Trump arremetió contra el Reino Unido y países aliados que no se han unido a los esfuerzos para asegurar el estrecho de Ormuz. Mientras tanto Israel comenzó una incursión terrestre en Líbano.

Despite the claims by some that H-2A foreign guestworkers are taking jobs from American workers, the numbers don't back them up.

In this bonus episode of the Growing for Market Podcast, we hear from long-time GFM writer, farmer and Minneapolis resident Sam Oschwald Tilton about how immigration enforcement is playing out in Minneapolis. In an industry with an estimated 40% of workers undocumented, the way immigration laws are enforced probably has a bigger impact on farming than any other industry. Many farmworkers with legal status- for example those on H-2A, refugee, asylum or H-2B visas- have been detained in the current immigration enforcement.  The fact that even documented workers are being detained is disrupting both farms and families as workers wonder if their documentation can be relied upon and farm employers wonder if their employees will show up for work. We connected two articles from Growing for Market Magazine about the H-2A visa process below as both a resource for farmers and an example for how the expansion of the guestworker program could provide a framework for foreign-born workers to legally meet the demand for farmworkers in the United States.  Related articles: Article: Demystifying the H-2A program from Growing for Market Magazine Article: Navigating the H-2A guestworker visa program from Growing for Market Magazine

*How important are dairy-on-beef calves to the Texas feedlot industry?*Farmer sentiment fell in January.*We could be in the early stages of cow herd rebuilding in Texas.*The cattle industry has come together in Nashville this week for CattleCon26. *What are the fundamentals for converting cropland to grassland in the Texas High Plains?*Use of the H2A guestworker program is growing in Texas and the U.S.*Transporting cattle is a necessity, but can be stressful. Texas veterinarian Dr. Bob Judd offers tips to make it a little easier.

Recorded live at Potato Expo 2026 in Dallas, Texas.Host Lane Nordlund sits down with some of the nation's leading agriculture advocates to examine the state of agricultural labor in the U.S. and discuss the pressing need for a stable and secure workforce.The panel explores efforts by the Agriculture Workforce Coalition to drive legislative and regulatory reforms. They address the complex intersection of border security, legal status for the existing workforce, and necessary updates to the H-2A guest worker program. The group also outlines current regulatory hurdles and how potato growers can engage with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to amplify the industry's voice.Guests:Jonathan Sarager, Senior Federal Government Affairs Director, Western Growers  John Walt Boatright, Director, Government Affairs, American Farm Bureau Federation Mike Wenkel, COO, National Potato Council 

The animal agriculture industry’s nightmares are our fuel this week as Mariann dives into the poultry sector’s desperate scramble to combat the mysterious avian metapneumovirus that’s dethroned bird flu as their top concern. Meanwhile, Big Ag’s dystopian push to expand the H-2A visa program threatens to create a permanent underclass of “temporarily permanent” workers with virtually no rights—because nothing says “ethical…

​​Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.comAttend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/Instagram: @the.momentum.companyLinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Duane Simpson, CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, for a wide-ranging and timely conversation on leadership, policy, and navigating uncertainty in agribusiness.Duane brings a rare perspective — blending decades of experience in government, global agribusiness, and cooperative leadership — to help leaders understand what's really happening behind the headlines in Washington, how policy decisions impact the farmer balance sheet, and why intentional leadership matters more now than ever.This episode isn't about politics for politics' sake. It's about clarity, resilience, and leading people well in a season of volatility.Key TakeawaysIntentional leadership is about designing moments, not just delivering messagesDuane defines intentionality as thinking deeply about what people should feel, know, and do after a leadership moment — whether that's a major announcement, a transition, or a difficult conversation. Leaders who ignore the emotional component leave impact on the table.The farmer balance sheet is under real pressureAcross agriculture, farmers are navigating rising costs, tight margins, and uncertainty. Duane explains that NCFC's work centers on two levers: lowering input costs and expanding markets — both critical to long-term farm viability.Policy details matter more than headlinesFrom tariffs to labor to the updated dietary guidelines, Duane breaks down how seemingly distant policy decisions directly affect domestic demand, production costs, and competitiveness for U.S. farmers. The nuance matters — and leaders need to understand it.Ag labor is one of the most pressing cost challengesLabor availability and affordability continue to strain producers, especially in specialty crops and dairy. Duane explains why existing systems like H-2A are imperfect — and why solutions must balance realism with economic sustainability.Technology won't replace people — but it will reshape rolesAI, automation, and software will elevate average performance faster, reduce friction, and shift how work gets done. The leaders who win will focus on adaptability, resilience, and redeploying people into higher-value roles — not eliminating them.Notable Quotes“Intentionality is thinking about what you want people to come away with — how they feel, what they know, and what they do next.” — Duane Simpson“The volatility and uncertainty are more damaging to the economy than any single tariff.” — Duane Simpson“Technology can't replace human connection — especially in agriculture.” — Duane Simpson“Intentional leadership matters more now because the noise is louder than it's ever been.” — Mark JewellAction StepsAudit how you communicate big moments with your team — are you designing the experience or just delivering information?Stay informed beyond headlines. Understand how policy details affect your operation.Plan for workforce transitions. Automation should elevate people, not disconnect them.Create space to think. Reading, walking, and reflection are leadership disciplines — not luxuries.Double down on human connection. In-person conversations still matter.Listen If...

2014年的12月3号，日本用H2A火箭，从种子岛宇宙中心发射了隼鸟2号。这家伙一开始要先进入环绕太阳的轨道，然后利用地球做一次引力弹弓加速。接下来就一头扎进深空，奔着3亿公里外就去了。等到隼鸟2号在太空里晃悠了三年半，终于在2018年的夏天来到了龙宫小行星跟前，等到清晰的照片传回了地面。整个团队的人呢心都凉了半截。这龙宫小行星怎么长得跟预料的完全不一样呢？科学家们根据遥感数据，给龙宫小行星描绘了个大致的轮廓。这家伙在宇宙里横竖也存在了几亿年，十几亿年了吧，有这么长的年头，天天被太阳光照，被太阳风吹，总该被磨平了吧，它表面应该覆盖着一层厚厚的像面粉一样细腻的碎屑土，对吧？但是仔细一看照片，这龙宫小行星表面密密麻麻的排列的全是大石头，有的像小汽车那么大，有的像一栋房子那么大，而且棱角分明，狰狞恐怖，就这个地表情况，你还想像蚊子叮一下，扎一管子土上来，那是不可能的。隼鸟2号探测器的肚子底下有一根长一米的采集管。太空里压根没有任何空气，你不可能像吸尘器一样，用抽气的方式把土吸上来。所以只能采用一种方法，就是当采集管撞到小天体表面的时候，就从管子里发射一颗小弹丸，把小行星表面上的土给崩起来。这一切都是在管子内部发生的事，那管子门一关，可不就采集了一把土吗？这些过程都是在一瞬间完成的，撞上去采集完，发动机一点火，探测器就可以弹起来离开小行星表面。这事不就圆满了吗？可现在弄的一地全是大石头，这事就麻烦了呀……

  Yuma, Arizona plays a critical role in feeding the United States, supplying much of the nation's leafy greens during the winter months. But farming at the border comes with unique challenges. In this episode of American Potential, host David From sits down with Cory Mellon, Chief Operating Officer of his family's farm, to discuss the realities of agriculture in a border community. Cory explains how the H-2A visa program supports legal farm labor, why generational workers are essential to the industry, and what happens when that system breaks down. Cory also shares firsthand insight into the economic impact of nonworkers moving through active fields, the food-safety risks farmers face when fields are disrupted, and how a federal government shutdown delayed worker processing—threatening the harvest during a critical picking season. This conversation highlights the connection between secure borders, legal labor, and America's food supply, and why getting immigration policy right matters far beyond the border.

Catholic bishops from across California held mass at the Adelanto ICE Detention Center near the Mojave Desert on Wednesday. This is part on of an outreach effort to immigrants who have been caught up in the Trump administration's ongoing immigration crackdown here in California. Reporter: Anthony Victoria, KVCR Farmworkers across the country are suing the Trump administration. They want to axe a recent change to the guest worker visa program, known as H-2A, that cuts farmworker pay by 25%. Reporter: Joshua Yeager Housing advocates filed a lawsuit Wednesday against Governor Gavin Newsom and L.A. Mayor Karen Bass over their orders banning duplexes in burn zones. Reporter: David Wagner, LAist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded from our new home on Bainbridge Island and released on Thanksgiving, this episode is equal parts gratitude and practical investing help. I open with my annual tradition of writing a fresh Thanksgiving list—people, communities, and institutions that have shaped my life and this work. I'm especially thankful for you, the DIY investors who keep showing up to learn, ask thoughtful questions, and hopefully staying the course.I also share appreciation for the resources that support disciplined investing—Morningstar, the Bogleheads community, and the American Association of Individual Investors (AAII). After a recent AAII presentation (over 150 attendees), we ran out of time for a live Q&A. I promised to respond to every legitimate question, so this episode kicks off a multi-part series answering them in depth.Here are the first 12 AAII questions covered in today's episode:(9:42) What alterations in portfolio construction do you recommend in transition from accumulation to distribution in order to maximize diversification of uncorrelated assets, safe withdrawal rates, and spending? ⁠Table h2a (21:21) I'm a huge fan of your U.S. two-fund portfolio. Why is diversification between large-cap growth and small-cap value so important, while diversification between VTSAX and AVUS (within the same asset class) is not? Should we diversify fund selection within the same asset class? Table K2b(26:49) Have you considered creating a quilt chart for the Ultimate Buy-and-Hold portfolios with a 70/30 U.S./international split? Table K1a and H2a and H2b(32:04) You appear to have avoided any mention of mid-cap. Should we be ignoring mid-cap funds?(33:35) What do you think about adding alternative investments to the portfolio (for example, managed futures)?(38:39) Are your recommendations for everyone, or does the game change when you have a pension for life?(43:07) I was fighting with the Zoom link and arrived 25 minutes into the presentation. Will a video recording be available to participants?(44:08) What would you expect the difference between the S&P 500 cap-weighted index (VFINX)and the S&P 500 equal-weighted index (VADAX)  to be?(49:53) The four-fund portfolios are equal-weighted across their asset classes, which results in a value tilt overall. Why weigh them equally?(54:35) One might think that adding international large-cap growth and international small-cap value to the two-fund approach would improve results. Does international allocation mainly reduce volatility/drawdown length, or also increase returns?  H2a and H2b(56:26) Can you buy DFA and Avantis funds at Charles Schwab?(58:40) What should you do if you have a lump sum to invest today, but current market highs make entry uncomfortable? https://awealthofcommonsense.com/2025/11/do-we-need-a-long-bear-market/

American agriculture relies on foreign workers, and they rely on the H-2A visa program to work legally in the United States. Despite a growing number of people applying for visa spots, the Trump administration has proposed cutting the division of the Department of Labor that enforces H-2A rules, leaving workers to choose between being vulnerable to ICE or to exploitation.  Guest: Max Blau, ProPublica reporter covering health care, the environment, agriculture and immigration. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

American agriculture relies on foreign workers, and they rely on the H-2A visa program to work legally in the United States. Despite a growing number of people applying for visa spots, the Trump administration has proposed cutting the division of the Department of Labor that enforces H-2A rules, leaving workers to choose between being vulnerable to ICE or to exploitation.  Guest: Max Blau, ProPublica reporter covering health care, the environment, agriculture and immigration. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices