Farm4Profit Podcast - podcast cover

Farm4Profit Podcast

David Whitaker, Corey Hillebo, Tanner Winterhofintro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com
Our mission is to provide farms and operators an independent and unbiased outlet for information related to increasing the profitability of their farming operation. We will be providing farms and operators of all sizes and experience levels access to the latest trends, projections, and the tools necessary to increase farming profitability. We will take each episode to deliver latest news, what's working for active farms, and a topic of focus each episode. Remember, if you aren't farming for profit you won't be farming for long.
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Episodes

A Farmer’s Greatest Asset: Capturing The Power of the Farmer's Mind

In this episode, we sit down with Jesse Steffensmeier to discuss how record-keeping and farm management can be a game-changer for farmers. As the owners of Midwest Wagyu Beef , Jesse and Leah have firsthand experience balancing farm operations, financial management, and family life . Their upcoming workbook is designed to help farmers stay organized, improve efficiency, and plan for the future with tools to track daily operations, finances, equipment, and field conditions. We also explore their ...

May 01, 202546 minEp. 475

The Right to Repair Debate: Autonomy, Safety, and the Future of Farming

"Beyond the Toolbox: Exploring the Complexities of the Right to Repair Debate in Agriculture" We acknowledge the complexity of the debate—it’s not just about farmers hacking software but a broader discussion about safety, ownership, relationships, and trust. Defining Right to Repair: Farmers’ desire to access tools, diagnostics, and manuals to repair their equipment independently. Manufacturers’ perspective on safety, emissions compliance, cybersecurity, and intellectual property rights. What th...

Apr 28, 20251 hr 10 minEp. 487

Millennial Farmer & Just a Jackson Thing : Pure Entertainment

In this quick-hit episode, we sit down with Zach Johnson (aka The Millennial Farmer ) and Just a Jackson Thing for a laid-back conversation that’s all about the love of agriculture . We talk shop—literally—with updates on Jackson’s new space, swap stories about their favorite tractors , and reflect on what keeps them passionate about creating farm content. Zach and Jackson share how social media has become a powerful platform to tell the truth about life on the farm—from the tough days to the mo...

Apr 24, 202529 minEp. 488

The Custom Harvesting Hustle: Starting and Growing a Business

Custom harvesting is a lifestyle, a business, and an essential part of the agricultural ecosystem—and few know it better than Frederick Harvesting & Trucking. What began as a small family operation with one combine and one truck has grown into a dynamic business that travels across multiple states each year, helping farmers bring in their crops efficiently and on time. In this episode, we sit down with the Frederick family to talk about the realities of life on the harvest trail —the long da...

Apr 21, 202558 minEp. 485

Behind the Wheel with @CharlieTrucker: Hauling Waste and Making Waves

Charlie from Uniondale, Pennsylvania, has built a massive following by doing what he does best— trucking with personality . With over 360k followers on TikTok and 81k on Facebook, Charlie blends the grit of hauling hazardous waste with humor, music, and daily check-ins that his fans love. His signature video intros like “Whiskey Wednesday” and “Thirsty Thursday” have become cult favorites, and his love of music—especially singing in his shop—is just another layer to the character people can’t ge...

Apr 17, 202533 minEp. 486

5 Phases to Better Crops – Plant Health & Nutrient Strategy for 2025

Gunny Kreps joins the show to break down the fundamentals of plant nutrition and how it directly impacts crop growth, resilience, and yield . Representing AgXplore , Gunny explains the five stages of crop development —Foundation, Establishment, Architecture, Reproductive, and Maturity—and highlights how understanding and supporting each phase can maximize ROI. We also tackle real-world challenges like slow plant growth, leaf rolling, grain fill issues, and unpredictable weather . Gunther shares ...

Apr 14, 20251 hrEp. 484

Big Booms & Even Bigger ..........! Chatting with Austin Roylance

Austin Roylance, a spraying expert and content creator , joins us to share how he built Roylance Spraying , a custom spraying business specializing in onions, mini potatoes, and corn defoliation . He discusses his trip to Argentina to explore the latest in Caiman Sprayers and BK Comp’s 160ft carbon fiber booms , his partnership programs and loyalty rewards , and the importance of staying ahead with regulations and GPS technology . We also hear about his family life, social media presence, and so...

Apr 10, 202542 minEp. 483

A Farmer's Perspective: How See & Spray Helps Farmers Save Big

In today’s episode, Jesse Blasi (Kansas) and Max Hodel (Illinois) share their experiences with John Deere's See & Spray™ technology and the latest sprayer updates designed to maximize yields and minimize costs. See & Spray Premium – Jesse discusses how he saved $120k on chemicals for his 3,000 acres of wheat using See & Spray Premium and how the new variable rate capabilities are bringing huge savings and precision to later-season applications. See & Spray Ultimate – Max shares h...

Apr 07, 202544 minEp. 479

A Voice of Canadian Ag: Shaun Haney's Story on RealAg Radio & More

In this episode, we’re joined by Shaun Haney, founder and CEO of RealAgriculture , Canada’s leading online ag publication and home to RealAg Radio on SiriusXM. Shaun shares his journey from growing up on a Southern Alberta seed farm to becoming a trusted voice in agriculture. We discuss how RealAgriculture provides farmers with essential information on agronomy, farm business planning, trade policies, and global ag trends. He also shares insights from speaking at top industry events and weighs i...

Apr 03, 202544 minEp. 481

Out of this World! Winning the War on Weeds: Soybean Herbicides

Exploring the importance of a program-based approach to weed control in soybeans. Drake explains how farmers can get ahead of weed pressure by integrating multiple sites of action, using cultural practices like tillage and crop rotation, and applying preemergence herbicides before weeds become established. With planting season approaching, the discussion highlights why preemergence herbicides are crucial for preventing weeds from emerging and setting the stage for season-long control. Corteva Ag...

Mar 31, 202542 minEp. 482

Farmers Helping Farmers: Inside Strutzenberg Drainage & Excavating

In this episode, Brandon Strutzenberg shares how Strutzenberg Farm Drainage & Excavating has been helping farmers improve their land since 2015 . We dive into the key benefits of farm drainage , including higher yields, better soil structure, and reduced disease pressure . Brandon also explains how excavation services—from site prep and grading to demolition and long-reach excavation (60ft!) —help farmers maximize their land’s potential. Plus, we explore the environmental responsibility behi...

Mar 27, 202549 minEp. 478

Surviving & Thriving: How to Make Your Farm More Profitable in 2025 w/ Ethan Clarke

As we look ahead to 2025, farm profitability remains top of mind. This episode explores key strategies that producers are using to control costs and increase revenue. We’ll discuss how farmers are sourcing chemicals and fertilizers, adjusting seed purchases, making smarter land rental decisions, and fine-tuning equipment investments. We’ll also examine alternative income streams like livestock, specialty crops, and direct-to-consumer meat sales. Lastly, we’ll touch on grain marketing approaches ...

Mar 24, 20251 hr 22 minEp. 480

Does Your Farm have a Brand? Perspective & Storytelling w/ Lo Schmid

With a degree in marketing from Bowling Green State University and over seven years of experience , Lauren specializes in branding, web design, photography, and videography —helping businesses in and out of agriculture establish strong, authentic brands. She’ll share insights into storytelling, digital trends, the role of AI in marketing, and how print and online media serve different purposes. We’ll also chat about her life on the farm, raising Chianina-Chiangus cattle, showing pigs, and balanc...

Mar 20, 20251 hr 1 minEp. 476

Is Leasing Right for You? Grain Bins, Buildings, Tractors & Trucks : AgriFinancial

In this episode, Bre Beals of AgriFinancial explains the ins and outs of leasing in agriculture , from equipment and machinery to farm buildings and vehicles. We discuss the key differences between leasing and buying , why farmers should consider leasing, and how it can improve cash flow and reduce risk . Bre also breaks down the financial and tax benefits of leasing, including how lease payments impact a farm’s balance sheet and the advantages of operating vs. capital leases . Plus, we cover co...

Mar 17, 202548 minEp. 477

"They Don't Teach This Stuff in School" - Trey Bo Dirt

In this episode, we sit down with Trey Bohannan (@treybodirt) to talk about his journey from lawn care to leading one of the largest trucking and construction companies in his area . Trey shares insights on how small businesses can leverage social media for growth , how he scaled Design One from a local mowing company to a major player in commercial construction, and his strategies for leadership and employee investment . We also discuss his recent five-part series on bidding commercial jobs , h...

Mar 13, 20251 hr 1 minEp. 474

Unlocking NRCS Resources: Drainage, Conservation & More

In this episode, we sit down with Scott Wagner , an Agricultural Engineer with NRCS , to explore drainage water management (DWM) and how farmers can leverage NRCS resources to improve both farm productivity and environmental conservation. Scott walks us through the steps of initiating a drainage project , best practices for working with NRCS , and common challenges farmers face . We also discuss technological advancements in drainage systems , sustainability efforts , and how farmers can maximiz...

Mar 10, 202545 minEp. 473

Grit, Green, and GAS: Don Slama’s Formula for Success

We sit down with Don Slama to discuss the history and growth of Slama Equipment , a John Deere dealership celebrating 75 years of service . We’ll cover how the business has evolved since 1948 , including Don’s journey from working in the shop to owning the company . He shares insights into why customer service, team loyalty, and supporting old equipment have been key to their success. We’ll also dive into Don’s passion for tractor pulling , the impact of the Hillsboro Charity Tractor Pull on the...

Mar 06, 202553 minEp. 472

Soybean Cyst Nematode: The Silent Threat Stealing Your Yield

https://www.thescncoalition.com/ Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is the most significant yield threat to soybean farmers, often causing losses without visible symptoms. In this episode, SCN experts Dylan Mangel from the University of Nebraska and Horacio Lopez-Nicora from Ohio State University break down why SCN is a growing problem, how resistance to PI 88788 is weakening, and why testing after harvest is critical. We discuss SCN soil testing, management strategies like crop rotation and resistant ...

Mar 03, 20251 hrEp. 471

Hunting, Bourbon, and Ag Tech: Hanging out with a Doctor! - Eric Scherder

We dive into the career and passions of Dr. Eric Scherder , a key figure at Corteva Agriscience . From his roots in Iowa to his role in shaping the future of agricultural innovations, Eric shares his experiences and wisdom. We discuss the most exciting advancements he’s been a part of, his advice for aspiring ag professionals, and his hopes for the next generation of farmers. Beyond work, Eric opens up about his love for hunting, his favorite bourbons, and what family dinner conversations look l...

Feb 27, 20251 hr 12 minEp. 470

Making Smart Crop Insurance Decisions for 2025

Trevor will walk us through Multi-Peril Crop Insurance (MPCI) plans, private product options, unit structure decisions, and key considerations for beginning and veteran farmers . We’ll also touch on how precision ag technology is shaping crop insurance and what farmers need to know about the latest Farm Bill developments . If you’re looking to protect your farm’s bottom line in 2025 , this is the episode for you! Let’s get started. In this episode, Trevor Robins from FMH joins us to break down t...

Feb 24, 202550 minEp. 469

8th-Generation Farmer Zoe Kent on Running a Farm & Owning Her Story

In this episode, we chat with Zoe Kent (@farmwithzoe) , an Ohio-based corn and soybean farmer who has built an impressive social media following by sharing the ups and downs of farming life. Zoe talks about her journey from partnering with her dad to running the farm on her own , her passion for empowering women in ag , and how she turns negativity into motivation . She also shares insights into growing a social media brand, which platform she loves most, and what she’d do differently if startin...

Feb 20, 20251 hr 4 minEp. 468

Tech That Works for Farmers : Solutions for Precision & Efficiency

First we learn about nitrogen stabilizers with Corteva for Spring use for the first 10 minutes then we sit down with Logan Handsaker , Product Sales Specialist at Ag Leader , to discuss how their latest precision ag innovations are simplifying farm operations and increasing efficiency. Logan shares his firsthand experience using Ag Leader products on his own farm, explaining how they provide seamless connectivity, superior mapping, and enhanced visibility for farmers. We dive into the launch of ...

Feb 17, 202559 minEp. 467

Breaking Yield Records: How Eric Reed the "Crop Critic" Farms for Profit

Eric Reed , also known as @TheCropCritic, a first-generation farmer from Tennessee. Eric shares his journey from farming with his wife’s family on their cotton farm to expanding his operation to 1,500 acres of cotton, corn, and soybeans across Tennessee and Alabama. We dive into his high-yield successes , including winning multiple National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and state soybean contests —with some jaw-dropping numbers. Eric talks about the challenges and strategies of maximizing yiel...

Feb 13, 20251 hr 22 minEp. 466

Breaking the Fragipan Barrier: New Solutions for Higher Yields

In this episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast , we dive into fragipan soils —a major challenge impacting farmers across Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee —with expert guests Dr. Murdock and Billy from AgX . Fragipan soils create a dense, compacted layer beneath the topsoil , restricting root growth and limiting access to nutrients and water, leading to significant yield loss. We discuss the groundbreaking research from the University of Kentucky , where a 10-year study has explored using annua...

Feb 10, 202546 minEp. 465

Ryan Kelly aka WITitan2 - Why Farming History Matters

In this special episode recorded live at the North American Conservation & Drainage Expo , the Farm4Profit team sits down with Ryan Kelly , better known as WITitan2 on YouTube & TikTok. Ryan has built a dedicated following by sharing his passion for farming history, classic equipment, and the stories of the past generations who built agriculture into what it is today. We dive into how Ryan’s YouTube channel became a hub for storytelling, preserving the legacy of farming, and why it’s cru...

Feb 06, 20251 hr 11 minEp. 464

Building Resilience in Farming and Life - A Journey Through Tough Challenges

We welcome Nina Sossamon Pogue, a former USA gymnast, Emmy award-winning news anchor, and bestselling author. The conversation centers around the theme of resilience, exploring how individuals can adapt to life's challenges and setbacks. Nina shares her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding resilience as the ability to adapt and grow stronger in the face of adversity. She introduces her framework for resilience, known as THIS, which includes timeline thinking, identifying...

Feb 03, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 463

Grant Hilbert - From Farming in a Game to Farming in Real Life

Recently, Grant took his love for farming to the next level by purchasing real farmland and documenting his journey on YouTube. He shares the triumphs and challenges of transitioning from virtual fields to actual crops, offering a unique perspective on the connection between gaming, content creation, and real-world agriculture. In this episode, Grant takes us behind the scenes of developing American Farmer —from inspiration to execution—and discusses the creative decisions that made the game a h...

Jan 30, 20251 hr 19 minEp. 462

Direct to Consumer: Amy Hay - Former Engineer Driving The Future of Beef Sales

In this conversation, Amy discusses the intricacies of direct beef sales, emphasizing the importance of pricing structures, customer education, and storytelling in agriculture. She shares her journey from traditional ranching to establishing a successful online platform for selling beef directly to consumers. The discussion highlights the challenges farmers face in finding customers and pricing their products, as well as the strategies to overcome these hurdles through effective marketing and so...

Jan 27, 202551 minEp. 461

Some More Wine! Catching up with Gavin and Grayce

To start off Tanner, Corey, and David welcome wine expert Duff Bevill to discuss the nuances of wine tasting, particularly focusing on Sauvignon Blanc. Duff shares his extensive experience in the wine industry, detailing the differences between two Sauvignon Blancs from different regions in Sonoma County. The discussion covers wine styles, tasting notes, and the influence of terroir on flavor, while also touching on personal wine preferences and the availability of the wines discussed. 15 minute...

Jan 23, 20251 hr 14 minEp. 460

Trying New Farming Practices with Your Risk Mitigated - Billy Rose AcreShield Guarantee

In this insightful episode, Billy Rose, founder of AcreShield, explores how innovation and risk management are reshaping modern farming. He breaks down how companies encourage retailers and growers to adopt new agricultural products using verified data, risk assessments, and real-world success stories. Billy highlights key traits for successful entrepreneurs and farmers, including energy, confidence, and tenacity. He dives into how AcreShield’s AI-powered Yield Optimizer helps farmers improve yi...

Jan 20, 20251 hr 13 minEp. 459
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