Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Business of Agriculture Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
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| 390 - Why Invest in Farmland? Insights from Canada’s Largest Landowner | 24 mars 2025 | 01:00:18 | |
Is farmland the ultimate investment? In this insightful episode, Damian sits down with Robert Andjelic, Canada’s largest private farmland owner, to explore the future of agricultural real estate. Despite having no farming background, Robert now owns 250,000 acres of prime Canadian farmland—mostly in Saskatchewan, with holdings in Manitoba and Alberta. After leaving the commercial real estate sector in 2007, Robert turned to farmland, citing water security, climate change, and the decline of arable land worldwide as key factors driving his investment. In this conversation, he shares his perspective on the economics of farmland, global instability, and the shifting agricultural landscape. Tune in to discover why farmland is becoming a sought-after asset and what the future holds for Canadian agriculture. Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the world’s most essential and evolving industries!
The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag https://newfieldsag.com/ Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 389 - The Future of Farming: Aging Farmers, Financial Challenges & Agriculture’s Big Reset | 17 mars 2025 | 00:56:51 | |
The agriculture industry is at a turning point, with nearly two-thirds of U.S. farmers over 55 and many surpassing 65. As farming faces massive capital demands and generational shifts, what does the future hold? Adam Lasch, a self-made, first-generation Wisconsin farmer, joins Damian to explore the financial hurdles, demographic changes, and innovations shaping modern farming. Discover how the next generation of farmers can navigate rising costs, land ownership challenges, and evolving technology in this insightful conversation on the future of agriculture. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag https://newfieldsag.com/ Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 388 - Will BioNutrients & Biologicals Be The End of Synthetic Fertilizers? | 10 mars 2025 | 00:44:16 | |
The Agriculture industry has long relied on synthetic fertilizers, chemical inputs, and over-applied fertility—not by choice, but by necessity. Now, with biologicals, bio-nutrients, and precision application technology, farmers have better alternatives. Colton Moon, president of Redox BioNutrients, joins Damian to explore how soil health, crop nutrition, and sustainability are driving the shift away from traditional ag inputs. Can biological solutions enhance efficiency and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers? Tune in to find out! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag https://newfieldsag.com/ Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 387 - RFK Jr.’s Organic Vision: Is This the Future of American Agriculture? | 03 mars 2025 | 00:39:41 | |
With Robert F. Kennedy Jr. now confirmed as Secretary of Health and Human Services, his longstanding commitment to organic food is taking center stage. A vocal advocate for transforming the American food system, RFK Jr. believes organic agriculture could be the key to solving major health issues—going as far as claiming it could eliminate diabetes. But what would happen if American farmers were pushed to meet USDA organic standards? In this episode, Damian Mason explores the potential impacts—good, bad, and uncertain—of RFK’s push for an organic revolution. Will it reshape the Business of Agriculture, or is it an impractical vision? Tune in for a deep dive into the future of food in America!
The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag https://newfieldsag.com/ Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 386 - Tons of Sauerkraut: Capitalizing on the Fermented Food Boom | 24 févr. 2025 | 00:55:16 | |
Fermented foods are trending, and sauerkraut is having a moment! In this episode of The Business of Agriculture, host Damian Mason dives deep into the world of fermentation with Jorge Azevedo, CEO of Fermented Food Holdings. They discuss why ultra-processed foods are falling out of favor, the growing demand for probiotics, and why FFH moved to Wisconsin—home to serious sauerkraut expertise. Plus, you won’t believe how much cabbage comes off an acre! (Spoiler: it’s a whopping 45 tons!) Tune in for a fun and insightful look at the business behind the brine.
The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: AGVisorPRO getagvisorpro.com Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 385 - Why Is Big Money Flooding into Farmland Right Now? | 17 févr. 2025 | 00:41:32 | |
For years, money flowed into Ag tech—until the tap ran dry. But there’s one area still attracting outside investment: farmland. Ben Gordon and Brian Grundtner from Fractal join Damian to discuss the evolving landscape of capital in agriculture. Their company is pioneering a model where investor funds help farmers acquire land, creating new opportunities for growth. Tune in to explore the financial trends shaping the future of farm ownership!
The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: AGVisorPRO getagvisorpro.com Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 384 - Can Farming Shift to Health-Focused Food Production? | 10 févr. 2025 | 00:55:24 | |
Is agriculture ready to pivot from maximizing yields to prioritizing nutrient-rich, health-focused food production? Join Damian in a thought-provoking discussion with Iowa farmer and Ag entrepreneur Kelly Garrett and Ag venture capitalist Carter Williams. Explore the future of farming as surpluses rise, America’s health declines, and consumers demand better nutrition. With terms like “food as medicine,” “nutrient density,” and “health-focused agriculture” becoming the buzzwords of a changing marketplace, this episode unpacks the challenges and opportunities ahead. Tune in to discover how farming can adapt to a health-first future. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: AGVisorPRO getagvisorpro.com Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 383-Trade, Tariffs, Biofuel, Markets, Ag Tech, The Farm Bill & the Future of Ag (From FarmCon) | 03 févr. 2025 | 00:30:12 | |
From FarmCon 2025, Damian Mason sits down with three experts to tackle the biggest issues in American agriculture: trade, tariffs, biofuel, markets, Ag Tech, and the Farm Bill. Kevin Van Trump of the Van Trump Report dives into global agriculture markets and the key drivers of change. Roland Fumasi with RaboResearch highlights three must-watch trends—trade, Farm Bill impacts, and the surprising effect weight loss drugs could have on agriculture. Finally, Bob Trogele of ProAgInvest sheds light on money, investment, and the future of Ag Tech innovation. If you're invested in the Business of Agriculture, this is a can't-miss episode!
The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: AGVisorPRO getagvisorpro.com Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 382 - What a Farmer Wants You to Know About Food | 27 janv. 2025 | 00:44:40 | |
How do farmers feel when misinformation about agriculture takes center stage? Dennis Bulani knows firsthand. After a conference speaker delivered a factually flawed tirade against modern farming, Dennis was inspired to write What a Farmer Wants You to Know About Food. In this episode, Dennis shares insights from his book, tackling one of agriculture’s greatest challenges: bridging the communication gap between farmers and consumers. Whether it’s myths about food safety or the realities of modern production practices, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in the truth about what’s on their plate. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: AGVisorPRO getagvisorpro.com Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 381 - Food & Farming Trends: Does Protein Have Staying Power? | 20 janv. 2025 | 00:49:08 | |
Protein is the hottest buzzword in food and diet trends—but will it stay that way? Damian Mason and RaboResearch’s Nicholas Fereday explore the booming demand for dietary protein and its impact on agriculture, from animal-based production to plant-based alternatives. Learn how "protein-enhanced" snacks like boxed waffles and bagged treats are shaping consumer habits, and discover who benefits most in the protein arms race. Plus, a surprising take on RFK Jr.’s influence on food trends and the evolving American diet. Tune in for insights on food innovation, health trends, and the future of the protein market! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: AGVisorPRO getagvisorpro.com Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 380 - Can Sustainable Aviation Fuel Propel Agriculture to New Heights? | 13 janv. 2025 | 00:50:39 | |
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) could become a game-changer for production agriculture, driving a surge in demand for corn and soybeans—two crops currently facing significant oversupply challenges. But will SAF truly take off? What policies, regulations, and incentives are necessary to make this vision a reality? Join biofuels analyst Corey Lavinsky of S&P Global and Pete Meyer of Muddy Boots Ag as they explore the present and future of SAF. Learn how this emerging industry could reshape North American agriculture, create new markets, and provide a sustainable boost for farmers. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: AGVisorPRO getagvisorpro.com Redox Bio-Nutrients redoxgrows.com Gripp Gripp.ag Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.
This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 379 - How Government Payments Impact Farmers: Subsidies, Supply, and Sustainability | 06 janv. 2025 | 00:44:06 | |
Just before Christmas 2024, the federal government unveiled a $31 billion aid package for American farmers—$10 billion in direct payments and $21 billion in disaster relief for the past two years. But here’s the twist: even more funding might be on the horizon. In this episode, Damian Mason is joined by Paul Neiffer, the Farm CPA, and Chris Barron of Ag View Solutions for a deep-dive into the long-term effects of government farm payments. They explore how such payouts historically boost supply, sustain operations that might otherwise shutter, and often become a recurring fixture in agriculture. Tune in to understand the implications of these subsidies and what they mean for the future of farming. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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| 378 - Strategies Smart Farms Use to Weather Bad Ag Economies | 30 déc. 2024 | 00:51:09 | |
Chris Barron has weathered several Ag downturns as an Iowa farmer. He’s also helped hundreds of farming operations succeed despite farm economy downturns as an Ag consultant with his company, Ag View Solutions. Chris joins Damian Mason to discuss the Business of Agriculture at the farm level, laying out strategies smart operators can deploy to — not only survive, but prosper — during a rocky farm economy patch. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 377 - Beef In The 21st Century | 23 déc. 2024 | 01:04:55 | |
American consumption of beef — contrary to predictions otherwise — has held up amazingly well, despite beef prices outpacing the rate of general food inflation. 85% of that beef is processed by the “Big 4” packers. Looking ahead, what changes are coming for beef? Will smaller meat processors, backed by federal grants announced a few years ago, change the landscape? Will food inflation, environmentalist’s lobbing, or the marketing of synthetic meat decrease beef consumption? What about direct-to-consumer beef production and niche beef companies — can they reach scale in a marketplace dominated by legacy producers? Jeff and Kara Smith with Colorado Craft Beef join Damian Mason in this lively discussion about the future of America’s favorite meat. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 376 - Will RFK Jr. “Un-Fauci” Our Food, Or Make Matters Worse? | 16 déc. 2024 | 00:38:40 | |
RFK Jr. as head of Health and Human Services will oversee the Food and Drug Administration and will have a role in setting food policy in the United States. Will RFK “Un-Fauci” our food system? And what exactly is meant by “Fauci’d,” you ask? When a bureaucrat uses fraudulent science to achieve political outcomes, enhance his power, and collaborate with corporations to earn profits, that’s the "Fauci Factor." Believe it or not, our food was “Fauci’d” beginning in the 1950s. Will RFK eradicate the bad science and corporate interests making us unhealthy? Or will his organic zealotry and opposition to seed oils make matters worse? Damian Mason delves into those questions and possible outcomes in this special edition of The Business of Agriculture, recorded in Damian’s kitchen! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 375 - Speaking of Agriculture — A Fun Conversation with Damian Mason and Vance Crowe | 09 déc. 2024 | 01:02:30 | |
Vance Crowe and Damian Mason have spoken to hundreds of thousands of Agricultural audience members. In this fun and fast moving discussion, they share "behind the scenes” stories from their careers on stage at Ag meetings all over the world. How do you handle a disagreeable audience? Why should you never actually write a speech? What makes for a good or bad audience? Have you ever bombed? (Anyone who says they haven’t is a liar!) What’s hard about the speaking biz that most people don’t see? Damian and Vance cover all that and more in this friendly and entertaining edition of The Business of Agriculture. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 374 - How An Agriculture Downturn & Demographics Will Impact Land Use, Ownership, and Sales | 02 déc. 2024 | 00:52:55 | |
As production Agriculture moves from banner years economically to a downturn, what changes will we see on the land front? Presumably values decline as other asset classes compete for investor dollars as the farm belt tightens amid lower commodity prices. Couple that with a dying generation handing off farm assets to disinterested, non-farming heirs and we could see hefty changes in Ag country — from shifting land use to idling of ground to big capital buying up property. Mike Downey with Uncommon Farms and author of the More Than Dirt blog joins Damian Mason for outlook mixed with a hint of sentimentality. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 373 - When Efficiency Gains Aren’t Enough to Make Production Agriculture Profitable | 25 nov. 2024 | 00:57:18 | |
We in Agriculture are told, “The low cost producer wins.” That’s been generally true for as long as anyone working in Ag today can remember. But what about moving forward? Will efficiency gains be enough to keep Agriculture profitable? No, they won’t be. The reason: Focusing on efficiency addresses supply, when our real problem moving forward will be stagnating demand. Agricultural consultant Todd Thurman joins Damian Mason for a compelling discussion about a mindset change for Agriculture. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 372 - The Big Fat Surprise — How Fake Science and Bad Food Policy Made Us Fat | 18 nov. 2024 | 00:45:56 | |
Beginning in the 1960s, Americans were told of the evils of saturated fat. From the 1970s through the ’90s, “low fat” was a can’t miss marketing slogan. Abstaining from meat, eggs, butter, and milk would keep us thin and stave off heart attacks, we were told. Grains and fiber were the answer for health and longevity, according to the experts. At one point the government’s food pyramid recommended 11 servings of grain per day. (Seriously? Livestock rations contain less grain!) Turns out, the so-called experts were wrong. Worse than just wrong, many of the experts have been lying to us, influenced by money from processed food companies, big pharma, and animal rights groups. Nina Teicholz, Nutrition Journalist and author of The Big Fat Surprise, joins Damian for this feast of truth about food, health, and consumption of animal-based fat. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 371 - The Agriculture Economy: How Bad Is It and Where Is It Going? | 11 nov. 2024 | 00:53:01 | |
We’re in year one of an Agricultural economic downturn due to low commodity prices. How bad are things, really? Where - geographically - are the numbers worse and who’s holding up better? Curt Covington, with Ag America Lending joins Damian Mason for the third time on The Business of Agriculture show. Curt provides a letter grade on farm and lender financials from California almonds to Florida dairy to the Midwest corn and soy producer. What lies ahead? Tune in to find out! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 370 - Land Rich, Cash Poor — Why America’s Small Farms Are Going Away & What To Do About It | 04 nov. 2024 | 00:59:46 | |
The number of farming operations in the U.S. has dipped below 2 million for the first time since we became a developed nation. Peak farm — meaning the year we had the most operations — occurred in 1935 when we had 6.8 million farms with a farming population of 32 million. Of a national population of approximately 128 million, that means one in four Americans farmed. Today, a few more than 3 million (about 1% of our current population) operate 1.9 million farming operations. Approximately five percent of America’s farms shut down or exit the business each year. Why do smaller farming entities close up shop? Is the trend reversible? Does it matter to our food system, our customers, or our national psyche? Brian Reisinger, author of Land Rich, Cash Poor joins Damian Mason for a lively discussion about Agricultural consolidation, the reasons for it, and what can be done to retain smaller farming operations. The big question: Does it matter or is consolidation just the natural flow of a maturing industry? The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 369 - Are Farmers Really Getting New Irrigation Systems Paid for By Dr. Pepper? Yep! | 28 oct. 2024 | 00:48:36 | |
Netafim, a subsurface drip irrigation maker, is teaming up with corporations eager to offset their water consumption. Through their Corporate Partnership Program, Netafim secures commitments from outside corporations to fund 50% or more of the cost of new irrigation installation on farms. Similar to carbon offset programs you may have heard about, in this arrangement farm owners agree to put in water efficient systems to reduce their irrigation load. Large companies — from Google to Dr. Pepper — subsidize the on-farm project. Netafim North America President Mike Hemman explains the arrangement and shares his views of the future of corporate sustainability spending. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 368 - Will Robert F. Kennedy’s Misguided Activism Set Back 70 Years Of Agricultural Innovation? | 21 oct. 2024 | 00:55:36 | |
What happens if Robert F. Kennedy, the self-described “extreme environmentalist” who rails against “factory farms,” is in charge of the Department of Agriculture? The trust fund heir turned environmental lawyer turned politician led the first lawsuits against Monsanto, and he’s on the record as saying we can end diabetes with organic food. Those are just a few of the alarm bells Damian Mason and his guest, Dr. Josh Miller cite in this discussion about misguided political movements and their impact on the Business of Agriculture.
If you don’t think this could happen, know this: Robert F. Kennedy released video on October 14th standing in front of the USDA building in Washington, DC stating, "When @DonaldJTrump gets me inside the USDA, we're going to give farmers an off-ramp from the current system that destroys soil, makes people sick, and harms family farms.” This is part of RFK Junior’s “Make America Healthy Again” campaign coinciding with the Trump campaign.
The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 367 - What Happens When A Farm Bill Dies? | 14 oct. 2024 | 00:38:32 | |
Will we get a new Farm Bill and if so, what will it look like? Damian Mason asks those questions and plenty more of his guest, Roger Cryan, Chief Economist for the American Farm Bureau Federation. Dr. Cryan and Damian provide a brief history of farm legislation (it dates back to the 1930’s) as well as a look ahead at what a future farm bill might include. Based on current administrative sentiment, anything involving “climate smart Agriculture” is in, as are nutrition programs, and permanent programs such as crop insurance. What’s not going to be a part of future farm legislation? Listen and find out! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 366 - How Strikes, Tariffs, and Trade Relations with China Impact American Agriculture | 07 oct. 2024 | 00:34:48 | |
The International Longshoremen’s Association announced that they had reached an agreement to end their strike on the evening of October 3rd. This episode of The Business of Agriculture was already recorded and set for release on October 7. Given the tenuous state of affairs between the ports, shippers, and the union — along with the fact the agreement is temporary — I believe this topic and my take on it is still relevant and timely. Please give it a listen, especially paying attention to the historical comparison. We’ve been here before in the late 1970s and early ’80s. Strikes, job loss fears, inflation, commodity glut, low Ag prices, global conflict, trade spats... The similarities are eery. Team those issues with an increasingly aggressive China whose economy is rapidly slowing along with political turmoil on the home front and things look a little dicey. Troubles on the trade front aren’t going away as protectionist policies are likely to ramp up. Watch or listen to this and be prepared! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 365 - Ethanol at 20—What Will the Next 20 Years Bring For Corn Ethanol & Agriculture? | 30 sept. 2024 | 00:50:05 | |
Explore the rise of corn ethanol in the United States in this insightful episode of The Business of Agriculture. Prior to the Renewable Fuels Standard of 2004, corn ethanol was a niche market. Fast forward to today, and nearly 40% of U.S. corn production is dedicated to ethanol. Join host Damian Mason as he interviews Geoff Cooper, CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, to discuss the impact of this booming industry. Discover how American agriculture has evolved, with 12% more corn acres planted since 2004 and a significant increase in bushels produced per acre. How sustainable is this trend? What does the future hold for ethanol over the next 20 years? Tune in to gain valuable insights into the economic and environmental implications of corn ethanol. Don’t miss out—subscribe to The Business of Agriculture today! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 364 - Promoting Agriculture: Why We Suck At It & How We Can Improve | 23 sept. 2024 | 00:58:33 | |
The Business of Agriculture is all about producing food, fuel, and fiber. We’re damn good at it. What we’re not so good at is promoting our products. In a marketplace that’s oversupplied on just about every Agricultural commodity, differentiation, promotion, branding, and marketing are more important than ever. Maureen Ballatori, CEO of Agency 29 — an Agriculture focused advertising firm — agrees and sometimes disagrees with Damian Mason’s 5 reasons Agricultural promotion flops. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 363 - The Truth About Livestock and Greenhouse Gas Emissions with Frank Mitloehner | 16 sept. 2024 | 00:37:48 | |
Are livestock producers unfairly targeted by climate activists for their environmental impact? Do consumers face unjust guilt trips over their meat, milk, and egg choices? In this episode of The Business of Agriculture, we dive into the debate surrounding livestock and greenhouse gas emissions. Join host Damian Mason and UC-Davis animal scientist Frank Mitloehner as they separate fact from fiction. Discover why the claim that "cow farts" are a major climate issue might be more propaganda than reality. Frank Mitloehner reveals the true impact of livestock on greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting that livestock are responsible for only 11% of global emissions and just 4% in the U.S. Will political actions against livestock production, similar to those seen in Europe, become a trend? Frank’s insights suggest otherwise. Plus, learn why livestock will continue to play a crucial role in human nutrition, with 98% of U.S. refrigerators stocked with animal-based products. Tune in for a factual and engaging discussion on the real numbers and future of livestock production. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 362 - Technology To Reduce Farm Labor & Natural Resource Consumption | 09 sept. 2024 | 00:38:38 | |
Two areas of increasing concern for production Agriculture: Water utilization and labor availability. Farmblox is a farm automation company connecting equipment and in-field sensors to a producer’s phone. Imagine a future with less time spent monitoring or guessing, and more time adjusting, based on real time information. Sustainability, labor saving, and improved yields through technology using artificial intelligence on farms….that’s the future according to Farmblox CEO, Nathan Rosenberg. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 361 - Pulses: Plant-Based Protein & A Growth Opportunity for Agriculture | 02 sept. 2024 | 00:49:04 | |
In this episode, we dive into the world of pulses—edible seeds from the legume family, including lentils, dry beans, and chickpeas (also known as Garbanzo beans). Discover why pulses are becoming a crucial part of the food industry, driven by rising consumer demand for plant-based protein, increasing protein needs in developing economies, longer shelf life, and impressive drought resistance. Join Lionel Kambeitz from Above Foods as he talks with Damian about his Canadian company's expansion into U.S. pulse production and processing. With the growing interest in pulse farming and consumption, this episode highlights a promising trend in the business of agriculture. Tune in to learn how pulses are shaping the future of sustainable agriculture and plant-based diets! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 360 - Diestel Ranch’s Regenified Turkey: Regenerative Agriculture at a Premium Price! | 26 août 2024 | 00:47:32 | |
You've probably heard about Regenerative Agriculture, now there's Regenified Certified. This innovative certification designates products produced using advanced regenerative farming practices. In this episode of The Business of Agriculture, host Damian Mason is joined by Heidi Diestel from Diestel Ranch, a pioneering California-based turkey producer. Heidi Diestel discusses how her family’s vertically integrated farming operation is leading the charge with Regenified Certified poultry. Tune in to learn about the benefits of regenerative agriculture for premium-priced poultry, the impact on sustainability, and what the future holds for food production. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 359 - Solar Development On Farms — Facts, Finances & What You Need To Know | 19 août 2024 | 00:52:01 | |
The subject of solar development on farm ground generates a lot of impassioned opinions. But do you know the all the facts? Listen to Damian’s discussion with Illinois farmer John Carroll, who has eight on-farm solar developments powering livestock and farm facilities. He is also exploring community solar projects, where a municipality leases farm land for solar power development. John explains the three types of solar — on-farm, community, and commercial — as well as the business side of solar from a farm and landowner perspective. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 358 - 3 BIG Thoughts On The Future of Farming, Food Prices, and What Grows On Our Farms | 12 août 2024 | 00:28:49 | |
Imagine a future with more environmental regulation, a fusion of regenerative and conventional farming practices, tastier food that’s still affordable, fewer farmland acres — especially of corn and soy — with more acres of oddball crops like sorghum. These are just a few of Damian Mason’s BIG thoughts on the future of farming, food prices, and what’ll be growing on America’s farms. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 357 - The Impact of Obesity Drugs on Agriculture | 05 août 2024 | 00:50:34 | |
41.9% of Americans are obese. Most of these people are not on obesity drugs. Yet. But that day is coming according to Damian Mason, and when it does Agriculture is going to — for the first time ever — face a marketplace of declining per-person caloric consumption. Todd Thurman joins Damian in this forward - looking discussion. What will the impact of obesity drugs, big Pharma, insurance companies, and possibly even government be on Agriculture? Listen to this! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 356 - How De-Globalization, a Strong Dollar, and Consumers Factor into American Agricultural Trade | 29 juil. 2024 | 00:49:39 | |
The United States’ Agricultural projected 2024 trade imbalance isn’t due to a lack of sales. In fact, American Ag is on track to sell more corn, soy, pork, and other farm products than ever before. The imbalance — meaning we’re buying more dollars worth of Agricultural goods than we’re selling — is due to deglobalizaion, a strong dollar, and consumers’ appetite for pricey imported food items. Roland Fumasi with Rabobank’s RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness joins Damian for numbers and perspective on trade as it affects American farming, and our marketplace. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI.
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| 355 - Does Agriculture Have A Bee Problem? | 22 juil. 2024 | 00:53:07 | |
Bee populations are declining, as you’ve likely heard. Is the decline a problem for Agriculture? Yes, says Itai Kanot, co-founder of BeeHero. With 75% of food crops requiring pollination, humanity needs bees. We need both wild honeybees — and perhaps more importantly — the kind kept by professional beekeepers. Professional beekeepers are hired by farmers to pollinate specialty crops. Bee keepers are struggling with Bee Colony Collapse, which is not an actual disease, but a phenomenon due to humans, monoculture, insecticide usage, and global movement of products harmful to bees. Mr. Kanot believes technology, along with addressing those four issues, can address Agriculture's bee problem. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved. Not available for AI. | |||
| 354 - Are Chinese Drones Spying On American Agriculture? | 15 juil. 2024 | 00:43:17 | |
The global Agriculture drone market is predicted to grow by 31.5% annually over the next four years. That’s good for Ag innovation but bad for American national security. Why? Because the dominant global manufacturer of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV’s) for Agriculture, is directly linked to the Chinese Communist Party. That company — DJI — currently controls about 3/4 of the Ag drone market, including here in North America. Besides spraying product on our fields, there is compelling evidence the company is gathering data and providing it to the Chinese government. Arthur Erickson, CEO of Texas-based Ag drone maker Hylio, joins Damian for this important discussion. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 353 - Agricultural Investment On The African Continent | 08 juil. 2024 | 00:49:03 | |
Historically, investment in Africa has been extractive, as in, spend money to build mines or infrastructure to extract resources from the continent. Jeff Bordes with Acres Club says his company is changing that by deploying capital investment into Africa to build farms to nourish the local population. Developing farms in other countries is nothing new (see Brazil for example), but why Africa and why the nation of Zambia in particular? Damian asks all those questions and more with the guys from Acres Club. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 352 - Ideas Agriculture Can Use & Ideas Agriculture Should Lose | 01 juil. 2024 | 00:41:49 | |
Recycled freight containers turned into backyard hydroponic farms for suburbanites? Space farming to combat the perils of Earth-bound climate crisis? These are just two of the multitude of Agriculture-themed business ventures being pitched by their founders, investors and public relations consultants. The problem with these ventures: They seek to solve a problem that isn’t really a problem, while the real problems Agriculture faces are left unaddressed. Damian Mason shares his thoughts on what Agricultural problems investment and innovation should tackle versus the ideas we should lose. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 351 - Labor Cost: A Huge Factor in America’s Ag Trade Deficit | 24 juin 2024 | 00:44:57 | |
The U.S. is staring down its largest Agricultural trade deficit in history. One factor in that is the amount of off-shore produce and specialty crop imports from nations with significantly lower labor costs. Jamie Clover Adams, Executive Director of Michigan Asparagus joins Damian Mason to explain why American farmers are losing out to other countries. The benefit of low prices is good for the consumer. The downside: potential loss of an industry and loss of food security. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 350 - Older, Poorer Customers — The Influence of Demographics and Food Inflation On Agriculture | 17 juin 2024 | 00:49:18 | |
The demographics are actually quite staggering — we are getting old, fast. Which means our customer’s dietary choices and demands are changing. Is Agriculture changing with its customers? What about the food inflation situation, with grocery prices up 25% since 2020? Todd Thurman, of Swine Insights International joins Damian to discuss economics, demographics, and opportunities shaping up amid an older customer base facing persistent food inflation. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 349 - Addressing American Agriculture's Trade Imbalance | 10 juin 2024 | 00:43:48 | |
For six decades, American Agriculture ran a trade surplus — meaning, we sold more dollars worth of Ag products to other countries than we bought. That’s changed. American Ag has run a trade deficit (bought more than we sold) four of the last six years. A record trade imbalance of $32 Billion is projected for 2024. Why is American Agriculture at a trade imbalance? Hint: Low corn and soybean prices combined with Americans' love of coffee, sugar, tequila, and avocados is part of the problem. John Newton, Chief Economist for the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry talks trade with Damian Mason! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 348 - The Value of Professional Peer Groups for Farm Operations | 03 juin 2024 | 00:49:43 | |
Farming is a business. Complete with a lot of moving parts, huge capital investment, and low margins. Adding in the trend toward farm consolidation, those larger farms that remain are left feeling a bit isolated. What’s a forward-looking farmer to do? Join a professional peer group where you get business advice, information, and feedback from other farming operations similar to yours. Chris Barron with Ag View Solutions explains how his Ag peer groups function to benefit farmers. Chris is joined by farmer, ag business owner, and peer group member Brad Downing. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 347 - Consolidation’s Limitations — Perspectives from a CEO on Consolidation in Agriculture | 27 mai 2024 | 00:53:47 | |
Agriculture has been consolidating for almost a century. There were 6.8 million American farms in 1935, today, less than 2 million. About 160,000 of those two million American farms do the bulk of the heavy lifting, production wise, with more than 90% of farm revenue. Consolidation has been the norm in not only production Agriculture but also on the business side. From farm machinery, to genetics, chemistry, and retail, there are fewer players today than in past decades. As we head into a declining Ag income cycle, consolidations will increase, based on historical precedent. But what are the limitations of consolidation? Landus CEO Matt Carstens joins Damian Mason for a lively Business of Agriculture episode! The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 346 - Consolidation in Corporate Agriculture — Who Benefits? | 20 mai 2024 | 00:53:09 | |
Big companies have gotten bigger in Agriculture, generally by acquiring, or merging with, other companies. Consolidation in the Business of Agriculture has been going on for decades and it’s likely to continue. The question is: Who benefits from consolidation in the Agriculture industry? Damian Mason asks Corteva’s Jim Davis that question, amid many other frank inquiries in this very interesting discussion. This is the first release in a two part series digging into consolidation in Agriculture. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 345 - Nutrient Content of Food — Agriculture’s Next Challenge? | 13 mai 2024 | 00:46:37 | |
For years Agriculture has prioritized production, transport-ability, appearance, and efficiency in the food we make. But what about nutrients? Did nutrient content of food get relegated to the back seat? Somewhat, and that’s changing, as consumers demand tastier, more nutritious food. University of Florida professor, farmer, and podcast host Kevin Folta joins Damian Mason on the Business of Agriculture for an intelligent discussion about the nutrient content of food. From McDonald’s to Wal-Mart, trends and preferences are evolving. The future of food and nutrition will be impacted by policy, healthcare, and consumer demand. Navigating the change is Ag’s next challenge. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 344 - Financial Outlook for Agriculture — Back to Normal | 06 mai 2024 | 00:43:31 | |
The last twenty years have been very good ones — financially speaking — for American Agriculture. The last three years 2021, ’22, and ’23 are the highest farm income years ever in both nominal and inflation adjusted, real dollars. Now, in 2024, we face a revenue downturn. While commodity prices are OK, input prices remain elevated. This scenario is setting up a financial breakeven for producers. What does this mean for all of us and what can crafty operators do to remain financially viable? John Maman with Nutrien Financial, and Nutrien Chief Economist Jason Newton share data along with financial recommendations in this episode of The Business of Agriculture. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 343 - Technology to Mitigate Crop Loss Risk | 29 avr. 2024 | 00:40:51 | |
In production Agriculture we tend to over manage for some pathogens — corn root worm for instance — while under managing for others such as Fusarium. Mike Tweedy with PatternAg cites his company's recent finding in a certain geography where Fusarium — a disease for which we generally under manage — caused an average of 30 lost bushels. As commodity prices squeeze farm profit margins, managing against disease loss is critical. What if you can do so proactively? Mike and Damian discuss predictive agronomics, bio-fertility, nutrient uptake, and the ineffectiveness of most crop scouting (hint: It’s more an autopsy than a doctor visit!). The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 342 - Money, Mergers & Cage Free Eggs — The Investment Climate in Ag | 22 avr. 2024 | 00:41:23 | |
Money was pouring into Agricultural startups a few years ago. What’s the investment climate look like now? Damian Mason is joined by Business Transaction Attorney Max Bremer on this episode of The Business of Agriculture. They discuss money flow into Ag, the pace of mergers and acquisitions, and how legislation is pushing some consolidation. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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| 341 - Exchange Traded Funds for Agricultural Commodities | 15 avr. 2024 | 00:42:41 | |
Most people don’t hold investment money in the Ag commodity space. That may be changing as investing in things like corn is made easier via ETFs — exchange traded funds. Jake Hanley with Teucrium explains the oftentimes complex commodities trading industry and how his company is simplifying — or as Damian Mason says “democratizing” — commodity investing. Whether you’re looking to diversify into alternative investments or not, you should listen to this information-packed episode of The Business of Agriculture. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:
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