Across the Acres

One thing about Wil Foster, Beck’s Senior Graphic Designer, is that he’s never afraid to try something new. After hopping on a plane from Australia to the US, Wil has taken on countless projects that have led him to many once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. From photographing rockstars to landing here at Beck’s, his story is one you won’t want to miss out on.

Along with being Beck’s Facilities Project Manager and Designer, Chris Beck is a family-man, Purdue University grad, and musician. Listen as he sits down with David and Morgan to share his thoughts on the challenges of maintaining the delicate balance between growth and preserving the traditions that make a workplace feel like home.

Life has unexpected twists and turns, like when Roger Neuweg’s career of 30 years was flipped upside down without warning. Joining the team 9 years ago, he now serves as Beck’s Processing Team Lead in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. Listen as David, Morgan, and Roger discuss how to make the most of life when God deals you a tough hand.

Our research team works hard behind the scenes each day to ensure that our products are top-notch. Quinn Albrecht, Research Technology Associate, sits down with David and Morgan to discuss how he landed here, life outside of Beck's, and how he answers the question, "So, you work in research... what does that mean exactly?"

Craig Spray, Beck’s Dealer Development Lead, joins David and Morgan for Episode 23 of Across the Acres to discuss how he landed at Beck’s 21 years ago. Life is a journey with many twists and turns; often times, things don’t go as planned. Listen as Craig shares how despite life’s many curveballs, he is thankful for the opportunities that have led him to where he is today.

Taking him out of the gym and into the studio, Beck's Personal Health Coach, Andy Sovern, sits down with David and Morgan to reflect on the journey that has led him here. Listen as he shares how sometimes the best things in life happen when you least expect them to.

Whether you are a person of faith or not, there is something to be learned from our episode 21 guest, Stu Manchester. A fourth-year Beck’s dealer, Stu strongly resonates with the “faith, family, and farming” values that we have as a company – but it hasn’t always been that way. Through this honest and vulnerable conversation, Stu provides a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and that there is always hope for healing and transformation. 

Listen as he shares with David and Morgan how his faith gave him a new perspective on life, and how it helped him find meaning in the midst of his toughest times. TW: This podcast episode contains discussions of suicide, violence, homelessness, and addiction, which may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, addiction, or homelessness, please seek professional help. Listener discretion is advised.

From an Intern to IT to Innovation, Brad Fruth has had quite the journey during his 22 years at Beck’s. Now serving as Beck’s Director of Innovation, Brad works each day to find new ways that out internal departments can partner with outside businesses and universities – specifically focusing on the future of agriculture and how Beck’s slogan of “helping farmers succeed” will apply to more than just seed sales.

Looking for a pick-me-up? Listen to Episode 19 of Across The Acres with Java Joe! A dad, grandpa, and coffee connoisseur, Joe Mangas landed at Beck’s 9 and a half years ago and doesn’t see that ending any time soon.

As Beck’s Technology Culture Lead, Joe is always willing to lend a helping hand. During this episode, he gives us a lesson in the importance of relationship building and being a friend to those around you. Grab a cup of coffee (or two) and listen today!

In light of New Year’s resolutions and starting off on a positive note, it’s only fitting that we begin the 2023 season of Across The Acres by interviewing one of Beck’s most sunshine-y personalities, Bethany Gremel.

Being at the company for 13 years and now serving on Beck’s Leadership Team as the Director of Culture and Brand Experience, she is a shining example of a strong woman in ag – personally and professionally. Listen as she shares what growth she has seen since joining Beck's in 2009.