Season 5: Episode 201
In this special episode of North American Ag Spotlight, we bring you an insightful panel discussion from FIRA USA 2024. Moderated by host Chrissy Wozniak, this engaging session delves into the evolving role of automation in the vegetable industry, featuring:

David De Paoli, Founder and Chairman of the Australia Group
Thomas Beach, Managing Director of Autonomous Agri Solutions (UK)
Jennifer Clarke, Executive Director of the California Leafy Greens Research Board

The panel explores how precision technology is enhancing crop health, pest management, and harvesting, while addressing the unique challenges in developing and adopting automation technologies. The discussion also highlights global perspectives on how farmers are overcoming barriers to implementation, the importance of collaboration among growers, researchers, and tech developers, and the potential for future advancements in automation.

Whether you’re a farmer, technologist, or ag enthusiast, this episode offers a front-row seat to the advancements shaping the vegetable industry worldwide.

Listen now to explore how automation is transforming agriculture, one innovation at a time!

Learn more about FIRA at https://fira-usa.com/ 
#agtech #farming #agriculture

North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.com

Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com

Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

In this week's North American Ag Spotlight podcast Chrissy Wozniak celebrates a milestone 200th episode by exploring a beloved agricultural tradition, the Arizona National Livestock Show. Joining her is Tyler Grandil, Executive Director of the show, who shares his journey from an FFA member with a passion for livestock to leading the largest livestock show in the Southwest.

Tyler provides insight into what makes the Arizona National unique—its focus on family, tradition, and innovation. He discusses how the event balances its deep roots in Arizona’s heritage with modern technology and outreach efforts, from Farming Simulator games to broader marketing strategies that connect agriculture with consumers. 

The conversation also highlights the challenges and opportunities facing the livestock industry, from ensuring an affordable food supply to addressing the disconnect between consumers and production agriculture. Tyler encourages young people to explore careers in agriculture through internships and emphasizes the importance of promoting agriculture’s positive impact on society.

For more information about the Arizona National Livestock Show, including event dates and schedules, visit aznational.org or follow them on social media. As always, subscribe to North American Ag Spotlight Podcast to stay informed about the latest in agriculture and share this episode to spread the word!

#farmfamily #farming #livestock

North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.com

Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com

Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

In this week's North American Ag Spotlight podcast Chrissy Wozniak welcomes back Mindy Patterson, president and co-founder of The Cavalry Group and an unwavering advocate for agriculture. Mindy shares her perspective on the aftermath of the November election, discussing key government picks and their potential impact on agriculture, private property rights, and American livelihoods.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Importance of Legislative Awareness: Mindy emphasizes how legislation at the local, state, and federal levels can significantly affect farmers, ranchers, and business owners, urging the agricultural community to stay vigilant and involved.
• The Sustains Act and Its Implications: A detailed breakdown of the Sustains Act, highlighting its potential threats to private property and rural communities under the guise of conservation and public-private partnerships.
• Defending Private Property Rights: The risks of government overreach, eminent domain misuse, and how these issues intertwine with controversial policies like CO2 pipelines and conservation easements.
• The Fight Against Animal Rights Extremism: Updates on The Cavalry Group's efforts to combat deceptive legislation targeting lawful businesses, including rodeo and horse-drawn carriage bans.
• Call to Action for Producers: Mindy passionately encourages agricultural producers to engage in policy discussions, attend town halls, and collaborate with advocacy groups to protect their industries.

Mindy also shares insights into recent and upcoming legislation, The Cavalry Group’s advocacy efforts, and strategies for pushing back against government overreach. This episode is a must-listen for those in agriculture, policy-making, and anyone concerned with private property rights.

Additional Resources:

Links to The Cavalry Group’s legislative tracking tools and resources.
Information on becoming a member of The Cavalry Group.
Details on connecting with advocacy organizations like American Agri-Women.

📢 Don’t miss this compelling discussion—listen now to get inspired and informed! Be sure to subscribe to North American Ag Spotlight on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on Rumble and Telegram for video content.

Learn more about the Cavalry Group at https://www.thecavalrygroup.com
Follow Mindy Patterson at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-patterson-1441a030/
#farm #farming #agriculture

###
North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.com

Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com

Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

In this episode of the North American Ag Spotlight podcast, Chrissy Wozniak welcomes back Jose Marchetti, an agronomy engineer and Business Development leader for Ecorobotix. With a rich background in agriculture across Argentina, Brazil, and the United States, Jose shares his expertise on advancing precision agriculture. The discussion centers around the ARA ultra-high-precision sprayer, a game-changing tool that reduces input costs, minimizes spray drift, and enhances crop health. Jose explains how the sprayer's advanced plant-by-plant technology distinguishes crops from weeds with remarkable accuracy, applying treatments only where needed.

Listeners will learn how the ARA sprayer has helped farmers achieve up to 95% savings in crop protection products while reducing manual labor costs significantly. Jose also highlights its impact on addressing regulatory compliance, improving worker safety, and boosting productivity in windy conditions. Real-world success stories from producers using the technology underline its potential to revolutionize modern farming. Jose’s deep passion for agriculture and his commitment to supporting farmers’ profitability shines throughout the conversation, making this an inspiring listen for anyone interested in ag tech.

Learn more about https://ecorobotix.com
#agtech #precisionag #agriculture

North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.com

Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com

Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

*To see the machinery in action, watch the video HERE.

In this Ag Spotlight podcast episode Chrissy Wozniak takes us to FIRA USA 2024 in Woodland, California, a premier event where agricultural technology meets innovation. Chrissy speaks with representatives from several forward-thinking companies showcasing advancements in AI, robotics, automation, and precision agriculture. Learn how these technologies are transforming farming practices and addressing challenges such as labor shortages, efficiency, and sustainability.

Featured Topics and Innovations:
Selective Harvesting with AI

• An advanced robotic system designed to identify and harvest specific crops with precision.
• Highlights the potential for new technology to shift global agricultural narratives.

Precision Spraying for Sustainable Farming

• AI-powered sprayers that reduce manual labor and minimize the use of crop protection products.
• Discusses the rapid adoption of AI within the agricultural sector.

Major Investments in Ag Tech Innovation

• Insights into the latest funding round supporting the growth of advanced robotics.
• Features a revolutionary tool for weed management and previews upcoming innovations.

Automation for Agricultural Machinery

• Exploring how technology is modernizing traditional farming equipment.
• Highlights solutions that improve efficiency and expand operational possibilities.

Data-Driven Farming with Weather Technology

• Advanced weather stations and sensors providing real-time data on rainfall, soil moisture, frost risk, and more.
• Integration of mobile technology and multilingual support for global accessibility.

Why You Should Listen:

• This episode offers a deep dive into the cutting-edge solutions shaping the future of agriculture. Whether you’re interested in AI-driven automation, precision tools, or data-powered decision-making, this episode provides valuable insights into the industry’s latest advancements.

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. 

Learn more about FIRA USA at https://fira-usa.com
#farm #farming #agriculture

North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.com

Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com

Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak interviews Lee Klancher, a celebrated author, photographer, and publisher, known for his contributions to agricultural storytelling through his company, Octane Press. Lee discusses his latest book, Snoopy and the Spy, a thrilling narrative set during the intense rivalry between agricultural giants John Deere and International Harvester amidst the 1980s farm crisis.

Lee’s book captures the dramatic 1980s era when John Deere and International Harvester were in fierce competition, providing new technology to farmers during challenging economic times. From sneaking into competitor events to small-scale espionage, Lee reveals stories of intense tactics between these iconic brands, showcasing the lengths they went to for dominance. Lee shares his passion for telling stories that capture the resilience and ingenuity of the agricultural community, inspired by his childhood memories and career-long fascination with machinery and farming.

Reflecting on the resilience of farmers during hard times, Lee emphasizes the universal lesson of perseverance—a message that resonates with many in agriculture today. Lee explains how farm mechanization transformed society, making time for innovation and technological advancement that shaped the modern world.
Memorable 

Links:
Dive into the riveting history of John Deere and International Harvester. Snoopy and the Spy - https://www.amazon.com/Snoopy-Spy-Espionage-Ingenuity-International/dp/1642341851

Connect with Lee Klancher and learn more about Octane Press here - https://octanepress.com/

Listen to the full episode and discover more about the fascinating and resilient history of the agricultural industry.

Be sure to subscribe to North American Ag Spotlight on your favorite podcast platform! 

###
North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.com

Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com

Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Trent Loos—a sixth-generation farmer, radio, tv and podcast host, and outspoken voice for agriculture. Trent shares his insights on critical issues facing agriculture, including government regulations, property rights, and environmental policies that impact farmers across the nation.

From his encounters with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to his in-depth analysis of the controversial CO2 pipelines, Trent provides a firsthand look at the struggles of American agriculture. Chrissy and Trent also discuss the challenges posed by net carbon policies, the influence of global agendas on local farming, and the importance of standing up for personal property rights.

Listeners will leave this episode with a renewed perspective on how grassroots activism and local involvement are essential for safeguarding agricultural freedoms and land ownership. Join Chrissy and Trent as they unpack the complex landscape of modern farming and the hope that comes from unity in the face of division.

Links & Resources:

Watch the RFK Jr. video on CO2 pipelines mentioned in this episode - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llcvrKDJRo0
Learn more about Trent Loos’ work - http://www.loostales.com/
Explore related articles and resources on Sustains Act - https://www.americanagriwomen.org/sustains

Follow Us: Subscribe to North American Ag Spotlight on Rumble, Telegram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and Amazon.

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with friends and colleagues interested in the future of agriculture! 

#farm #farming #agriculture

North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.com

Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com

Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, host Chrissy Wozniak interviews Bradlee Consevage and Craig Dick from Phospholutions, a company founded in 2016 with a mission to enhance the efficiency of global phosphorus use. Phosphorus, the second most critical nutrient in crop production, is a finite resource, and managing it responsibly is crucial for future food production and sustainability. Craig, with decades of experience in crop nutrition, and Bradlee, focused on marketing innovations, share how their company is revolutionizing phosphorus management.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The challenges farmers face in managing phosphorus and the global implications of phosphorus depletion.
• Phospholutions' innovative solutions, like their Riser technology, which increases phosphorus efficiency while reducing costs.
• Environmental benefits, including reducing phosphorus runoff that contributes to issues like algae blooms in waterways.
• Long-term benefits for farmers, including potential yield increases and cost savings.
• How Phospholutions works with traditional retail and distribution channels to make their products accessible.
• The future of sustainable agriculture and how their technology supports both farmers and environmental goals.

Takeaways: Phospholutions is providing farmers with practical, sustainable solutions that don’t just save money but also protect the environment by reducing phosphorus waste. Their technology helps farmers increase efficiency, improve yields, and contributes to global phosphorus conservation efforts.

Learn More: For more information, visit Phospholutions.com and check out their new grower calculator to explore potential savings for your farm.

Subscribe: Don’t forget to subscribe to North American Ag Spotlight on your favorite podcast platforms like Rumble, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with others in the agricultural community.

#farm #farming #agriculture

North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.com

Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com

Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

Listen to the podcast here - https://www.northamericanag.com/north-american-ag-spotlight - From Cows to Carriage Horses: Animal Ownership is Under Attack

In this eye-opening episode of North American Ag Spotlight, host Chrissy Wozniak is joined by Mindy Patterson of The Cavalry Group, Brian High from NorthStar Carriage in Dallas, and Stephanie Dickinson of Yellow Rose Carriage Company in San Antonio. Together, they delve into the growing threats against animal ownership and animal-based businesses, with a particular focus on the challenges faced by horse-drawn carriage companies in Texas.

This discussion highlights how radical animal rights activism is targeting these businesses and others across the country, from rodeos to dairy farms, with the goal of banning animal ownership altogether. The guests share their personal stories of fighting local legislation and the false narratives pushed by activists, and they reveal how these attacks on working animals, such as horses, are just the beginning of a broader campaign against agriculture and property rights.

Key Discussion Points:
Animal Rights Activism & Legislation: Mindy Patterson explains how The Cavalry Group works to protect the rights of animal-based businesses and the impact of local, state, and federal legislation influenced by animal rights groups.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Battles: Brian High and Stephanie Dickinson share their experiences in fighting proposed bans on horse-drawn carriages in Dallas and San Antonio, despite these businesses operating lawfully and under strict regulations.
Broader Implications for Agriculture: The panel discusses how this isn’t just a fight about horses, but part of a larger movement against all forms of animal agriculture, including livestock and pet ownership.
Calls to Action: The episode emphasizes the importance of taking a proactive stance, encouraging listeners to support preemptive legislation like the Working Animal Protection Act and stand up against activist-driven efforts that threaten animal ownership and property rights.

Guest Information:
Mindy Patterson – President of The Cavalry Group, a national member-based company dedicated to protecting the constitutional and private property rights of animal owners.
Brian High – Owner of NorthStar Carriage in Dallas, Texas, and a vocal advocate in the fight against the proposed ban on horse-drawn carriages.
Stephanie Dickinson – Owner of Yellow Rose Carriage Company in San Antonio, Texas, who shares her battle against legislation that threatens to bankrupt family-run carriage businesses.

Call to Action:
Listeners are encouraged to take action by sending letters to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, urging him to protect lawful businesses like horse-drawn carriages from activist-driven bans. Follow the link in the show notes to get involved and make your voice heard!

Resources & Links:
The Cavalry Group: https://www.thecavalrygroup.com/
Save Dallas Horse Carriages: https://www.facebook.com/people/Save-Dallas-Horse-Carriages/61555249262248/
Letter to Ken Paxton: https://the-cavalry-group.rallycongress.com/ctas/urge-texas-attorney-general-ken-paxton-to-hold-city-council-san-antonio-accountable-unlawfully-banning-horse-drawn 

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your friends and colleagues in the agriculture and animal husbandry communities. Together, we can stand strong against efforts to undermine animal ownership and the rights of businesses that rely on them.

#animalrights #Propertyrights #carriagerides

North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https:/

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight podcast, Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Matt Durian, the Livestock Event Manager at the American Royal, a Kansas City tradition that has been celebrating agriculture since 1899. The American Royal offers nearly half a million participants the opportunity to engage in high-quality events, including livestock shows, rodeos, and educational outreach programs. Matt shares his journey, from his beginnings in Paso Robles, California, to his current role managing the American Royal's livestock events.

With the 2024 American Royal Livestock Show scheduled from October 9-27, Matt discusses the exciting new additions to this year’s event, such as the introduction of the Supreme Bull and Supreme Open Female Heifer Show. He emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and innovation, which has allowed the American Royal to remain a vital part of the agricultural community for over a century.

Matt also highlights the educational programs designed to bring Kansas City students closer to agriculture. Through hands-on field trips during breeding cattle week, local students will have the chance to meet exhibitors and learn about food production and animal care. One of the show's most thrilling moments, the Royalty Drive on October 19th, brings together the top market animals in a spectacular competition that Matt describes as a "goosebump" moment for all involved.

For visitors attending the event from out of town, Matt recommends sampling some of Kansas City’s famous barbecue, including local favorites like Slabs BBQ. He also encourages a drive by the site of the new American Royal facility, currently under construction.

For those interested in attending or participating in the 2024 American Royal, registration and ticket information can be found at americanroyal.com. Entries for the livestock show are open until September 10th to avoid late fees, and all 17 days of events will be broadcast live via Walton Webcasting for those who can't attend in person.

Matt shares his passion for agriculture and his commitment to ensuring that the American Royal continues to leave a lasting impact on future generations. He also invites companies and individuals to get involved through sponsorships or partnerships. Whether attending in person or watching from home, the 2024 American Royal promises to be an unforgettable celebration of agriculture and community.

Learn more about American Royal at https://americanroyal.com/
#livestock #farming #agriculture

North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.com

Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com

Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!

Send us a text

Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com