In this episode, Christa Hartsook welcomes Ethan Bowers, an Extension Enterprise Development Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, to discuss the upcoming Meat Processor Lifecycle Workshop. This workshop is designed for meat processing professionals, offering essential insights into the entire business lifecycle—from startup financing to transitioning ownership.

Join us for this informative episode to prepare for the workshop on November 7, and ensure your meat processing business is equipped for success. Don't miss the early bird registration deadline on October 27! Tune in for all the details you need to thrive in this essential industry.

Episode Links: 

• Meat Processor Lifecyle Workshop web page: https://go.iastate.edu/PX57B4 

• Ethan Bowers: [email protected], (515) 460-6068   

In this episode, Olivia meets with Adam Janke, Wildlife Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Listen in as they talk about livestock grazing amongst wildlife, how to protect wildlife while we are working in our fields, and more! 

Episode Links: 

• Sign up for the CRP grazing study: https://www.nrem.iastate.edu/project/cattle-grazing-conservation-reserve-program-grasslands

• More information on wildlife & grazing: https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/wildlife/managing-pasture-and-hay-wildlife

• Adam Janke - [email protected]  |  515-294-7429

In this episode, Olivia meets with Adam Thoms, Assistant Professor and Extension Turfgrass Specialist at Iowa State University. Tune in to hear all about summer lawn care! We know this year has been WET, and Adam gives us some tips on how to get our lawns looking good again after they've had the stress of water pooling. 

Episode Links: 

• Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Yard and Garden: https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/ 

• Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Department of Horticulture: https://www.hort.iastate.edu/extension-and-outreach/ 

In this episode, Olivia visits with Shelby Gruss, Iowa State University Extension & Outreach Forage Specialist! Tune in as they discuss what the forage forecast currently looks like and management considerations to take when planning for the season! 

Episode Links: 

• Shelby Gruss: email: [email protected] Phone: 515-294-3832 

In this episode, Olivia chats with Randall Cass, Bee Extension Specialist at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, for an enlightening discussion on starting your beekeeping journey in Iowa. From colony care to hive management, we explore the essential aspects you need to know. If you're considering taking up beekeeping, this is an episode you won't want to miss!

Episode Links: 

• Beekeeping-Enterprise Budget Series: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/Beekeeping-Enterprise-Budget-Series

• Iowa State University Bee Program: https://bees.cals.iastate.edu/

In this episode, Christa sits down with Dennis Todey, Director of the USDA Midwest Climate Hub, and Madelynn Wuestenberg, Agricultural Climatology Specialist at Iowa State Extension and Outreach. As the weather shifts and farmers gear up for planting season, our focus turns to the forecast for the coming months. Join us for an insightful discussion on what lies ahead!

Episode Links: 

• Midwest Climate Hub Outlook: https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/midwest/climate-outlooks 

• Sign up for their webinars: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7528179497868100876 

• Weather and Climate with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/climate 

• Madelynn Wuestenberg on Twitter: https://twitter.com/maddy_climate 

In this episode, Olivia interviews Shannon Coleman, Associate professor and State Extension Specialist with Iowa State Extension and Outreach. Tune in as we discuss Home-based Foods vs. Cottage Foods! This episode is packed with great information for anyone in the industry or thinking about joining!

Episode Links: 

• Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing: https://dial.iowa.gov/ 

• Jams and Jelly Fact Sheet: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/15966 

• Iowa Food Safety Task Force: https://ia.foodprotectiontaskforce.com/ 

In this episode, Olivia interviews Tim Christensen, Farm Management Specialist with Iowa State Extension and Outreach. Tune in as we discuss some of the tools available through Iowa State University's Ag Decision Maker! One useful tool you can find on the site is the Livestock Enterprise Bidget sheets! These are completely free for you to utilize and can really help with your overall business plan! 

Episode Links: 

• Ag Decision Maker Livestock Enterprise Budgets: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/ldcostsreturns.html 

Tune in as Olivia interviews Dan Nieland, Small Business Education Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, They discuss the upcoming Small Meat Processor Workshop that will take place on April 25, 2024, at the Hansen Agricultural Student Learning Center (2508 Mortensen Rd. Ames, IA 50011). This is a free workshop but registration is required no later than April 10, 2024!

Episode Links: 

• Registration Link: https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ezaODjDpnJltr3E  

• Dan Nieland: [email protected] 

• Farm, Food, and Enterprise Development News Release: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/ffed/small-meat-processor-workshop-be-held-april-25 

Tune in as Olivia interviews Radall Vos, Commercial Fruit Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, we discuss what is going on with fruit crops this year and how has this warm front effected the plants? Also is there time to still get new crops planted? If so, when should we plant and where should we purchase them?

Episode Links: 

• Fruit Cultivars of Iowa: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/Fruit-Cultivars-for-Iowa 

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ISUExtensionFruit 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iowafruitguy/