SharkFarmer Podcast

In this episode, Rob Sharkey interviews agriculture journalist Chris Bennett about the hidden stories of farming, wildlife encounters, and the complexities of agricultural media. They explore fascinating tales from the field, the challenges of investigative reporting, and the unique culture of rural America.

key topics

• The role of storytelling in agriculture
• Wild pig attacks and their impact
• Historical mysteries like the lady in red
• Crop insurance fraud schemes
• Challenges of investigative journalism in farming
• The culture and biases of agriculture media
• The importance of authentic farm stories
• Wildlife interactions and their dangers
• The influence of history on modern farming
• The complexity of rural law enforcement

Chapters

Have a listen as we talk with Bo Allen about how he started a custome harvest busness in Ohio

In this episode, Rob Sharkey interviews Loran Steinlage from West Union, Iowa, exploring innovative farming practices, soil health, crop diversification, and the future of agriculture. Discover insights on relay cropping, cover crops, data-driven farming, and industry collaborations that are shaping sustainable agriculture.

key topics

• Relay cropping and its benefits
• Soil health and carbon sequestration
• Use of cover crops like cereal rye and annual ryegrass
• Data collection and farm management technology
• Industry collaboration and biofuel policies
• Farm diversification and crop rotation strategies
• Challenges and solutions in modern farming
• Farmer mentorship and community engagement

Takeaways

Relay cropping can produce three cash crops a year, boosting income. Cover crops like cereal rye improve soil structure and reduce weeds. Data collection with soil sensors shows soil health is improving. Industry engagement helps farmers adopt new technologies. Farmers can balance profitability with sustainability.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and guest overview 02:02 Farm history and crop diversification 03:58 Industry events and technology showcases 06:50 Relay cropping and soil health benefits 12:06 Data collection and farm management 15:54 Soil improvement and cover crop strategies 21:11 Industry collaboration and policy insights 27:52 Farmers' perspectives on innovation 34:58 Future trends and industry partnerships 42:05 Closing thoughts and farmer advice

In this episode, we explore the journey of Jeremy's Matuszewski sons, TJ and Bobby, as they transition into the family business, Thunderstruck. We discuss their experiences with farm shows, product innovation, and balancing sports, coaching, and work, highlighting the importance of family, innovation, and industry connections.

Key topics

• Transition from non-ag backgrounds to family business
• Farm show strategies and customer engagement
• Product innovation and design in agriculture
• Balancing sports, coaching, and work commitments
• Family dynamics and succession in agriculture

Chapters

Join us as we explore the journey of third-generation farmers Brittany and Calvin Beasley of Beasley Orchard in Indiana. Discover their diverse crop operations, agritourism strategies, and how they navigate modern farming challenges while sharing insights into sustainable practices and community engagement.

key topics

• Diversification of crops and agritourism activities
• Challenges of farming near suburban development
• Family farm legacy and succession planning
• Use of technology and innovative practices in farming
• Labor management and H2A visa program
• Marketing and community engagement strategies

Chapters

In this episode Laney and Joseph Harvick talk about their journey from Texas to Missouri, their innovative farming practices, community engagement, and overcoming storm-related setbacks. Discover practical advice for aspiring farmers and insights into building a successful local food business.

key topics

• Journey from Texas to Missouri
• Community engagement and building trust
• Transition from plant nursery to food production
• Diversification of farm income streams
• Farm resilience and storm recovery
• Farm education and community classes
• Building relationships with local restaurants and institutions
• Farm mentorship and advice for new farmers

takeaways

• Building trust in a new community takes time and effort.
• Diversifying income streams is key to farm success.
• Community involvement and education foster local support.
• Resilience and adaptability are crucial after setbacks.
• Personal relationships are vital for business growth.

Chapters

Join us as we explore the California grape industry with Kyle Collins, manager of North Valley Operations at Allied Grape Growers. We discuss vineyard management, industry challenges, market dynamics, and the future of American wine.

• California grape industry overview
• Role of cooperatives in wine production
• Market and legislative challenges for American wine
• Grape varieties and vineyard management
• Industry impact of global wine glut

Chapters

Are you ready to be inspired by a man who embodies resilience, passion, and authenticity? Meet Jake Jacobs — a fifth-generation Tennessee farmer and construction mogul whose story is as raw as it is motivating. This episode isn't just about farming; it's about living with purpose, embracing every challenge, and pushing the boundaries of what hard work can achieve.

• Jake's journey from farming to building a multi-faceted empire in construction and horses
• How his family heritage shapes his identity and business decisions
• The fascinating world of Tennessee walking horses and the deep roots of horse culture in Murfreesboro
• The innovative safety technology transforming explosive and construction work
• The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and the power of delegation
• Lessons on mindset: working early, working hard, and appreciating blessings
• His thoughts on community, development, and balancing progress with tradition
• Personal stories of love, resilience, and pure passion for horses, family, and farming

00:00 - Introduction and the significance of Jake Jacobs' story 02:03 - Growing up on the farm and expansion into construction 04:25 - The construction industry: tackling the jobs no one else wants 06:43 - Breaking bedrock and working with modern technology in blasting 09:06 - Building a successful team and the art of delegation 10:32 - Growing up on a farm and nurturing a lifelong passion for horses 12:23 - The incredible journey of creating a world-class Tennessee walking horse farm 14:15 - The competitive, yet tight-knit horse community in Murfreesboro 16:38 - Trends in farmland development and the impact on agriculture 18:28 - Community growth, local industry, and how new businesses influence the area 20:24 - How successful people surround themselves with success 22:16 - A personal story: navigating a horse accident with resilience and faith 24:33 - The power of a strong mindset and perseverance in the face of adversity 27:26 - The operation of a high-end horse breeding and training farm 30:40 - Maintaining a state-of-the-art breeding facility and the business behind it 33:59 - The economics of breeding champion Tennessee walking horses 35:52 - Managing health, safety, and disease control in a busy farm environment 38:11 - The dedication of a multi-trainer operation and the art of equitation 40:00 - The passion of a young girl chasing her dreams in the horse world 41:16 - Moments of emotion: tears of joy and pride 43:08 - The significance of the Tennessee walking horse industry 44:32 - The camaraderie and the importance of farm organizations 45:29 - The cultural pride of Tennessee horses and the industry's future 46:55 - The mindset of a champion: early mornings, hard work, and gratitude 47:51 - Closing thoughts and how to connect with Jake Jacobs

In this episode, Mitchell Yerkes shares insights into California agriculture, including crop diversity, regulatory challenges, innovative drying techniques, and the importance of human connection in farming.

key topics

• Crop diversity in California
• Regulatory and legislative challenges
• Innovative fruit drying techniques
• Water management and sustainability
• Farm advocacy and human connection

Chapters

In this episode, George McDonald of Katisa Farms shares insights on modern farming practices, crop diversification, relationship building with industry partners, and the importance of community involvement. Discover how innovation, tradition, and relationships drive success in agriculture.

key topics

• Farm diversification and crop management
• Relationship building with distilleries and retailers
• Use of technology in farming (GPS, no-till, drying)
• Community involvement and political engagement in agriculture
• Family legacy and succession planning in farming