Crop insurance spring prices are out, which means producers can start dialing in Revenue Protection (RP) decisions for the 2026 crop year. In this episode, Nick is joined by Jordan Hinkeldey, a crop insurance agent from Alta, Iowa, to break down what the spring price release means for guarantees, how RP works, and what producers may want to review before the sales closing deadline.

They also cover the ARC and PLC safety-net programs—what’s changed, what producers are watching, and how these programs can fit alongside crop insurance planning. If you’re trying to connect insurance decisions to a broader risk-management plan (rather than reacting to headlines), this is a practical, producer-focused conversation.

Topics Covered

2026 crop insurance spring prices and what they influence
Revenue Protection (RP) explained in plain English
Coverage levels, guarantees, and why producers compare options differently
ARC / PLC program basics and what producers are watching
Planning ahead for the sales closing deadline
Avoiding “information overload” and keeping decisions practical

Cash is doing the talking—and the rest of the board is trying to keep up. 🎙️

In Episode 8 of Bushels and Beef, Nick sits down with Seth Vander Weide and Jason Noteboom to unpack what’s driving cattle markets, why more producers are looking at LRP as a price floor without the margin-call headache, and how they’re thinking about supply, heifer retention, and risk.

They also pivot to the grain side with real-world talk on old crop soybean decisions, basis and storage math, and how February crop insurance pricing can shape new crop marketing plans—before spring decisions get locked in.

This week on The Bushels and Beef Podcast, Nick is joined by Adam Friedrichsen (Logic Ag Marketing) to break down the latest WASDE report, why corn and beans reacted differently, and what headline-driven trade (including China demand rumors) can do to volatility.

They also cover South America weather (Brazil harvest delays vs. Argentina dryness), and shift gears to livestock with the latest chatter around Argentina beef imports and why many producers are thinking more about risk floors (including LRP discussions).

Looking for help calculating break-evens or building a risk plan around crop insurance + marketing?

Logic Ag Marketing supports producers with grain marketing, crop insurance planning, and livestock risk tools.

In this episode of the Bushels and Beef podcast, host Nick discusses the evolving landscape of crop insurance with expert Jordan Hinkeldey. They delve into the significance of the ECO program and its subsidies for 2026, the savings on MPCI premiums, and the support available for beginning farmers. The conversation also highlights the importance of integrating insurance with marketing strategies to enhance profitability for producers. Jordan shares insights on the current trends in crop insurance and offers practical advice for farmers navigating their options.

In this episode of the Bushels and Beef podcast, host Nick and guest Dan Gerhold discuss the current state of the cattle market, recent trends in hog prices, and the impact of new food guidelines on consumer behavior.

They delve into the fragility of the market, influenced by social media rumors, and the importance of understanding demand versus supply dynamics.

Dan shares insights on the cattle supply shortage, breakeven prices, and strategies for producers to navigate the market effectively.

The conversation also touches on the effects of weather on cattle prices and the significance of risk management tools like LRP.

Finally, they share personal anecdotes about ribeye steaks and offer advice for producers facing challenges in the current market.

In this episode of the Bushels and Beef podcast, Shane Holtorff and Melissa Schmidt from Logic Ag Marketing discuss the latest WASDE report and what it could mean for corn producers.

They talk through the surprise increase in yield, acres, and ending stocks, the range of reactions they’re hearing from farmers, and how they are thinking about today’s grain markets and production costs.

The conversation also touches on risk management considerations, cash flow planning, and some of the factors producers may want to keep in mind when making marketing decisions. Shane shares why this report has been especially frustrating for many, while Melissa points out a few constructive trends she’s watching, including ethanol demand and export activity.

The episode wraps up with general ideas for how producers can approach their marketing plans in a challenging environment, and the value of accountability and support when working through decisions.

In this episode of the Bushels and Beef podcast, host Nick interviews Fenton Nelsen, a cattle producer and rodeo competitor, about Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) and its significance for cattlemen.

Fenton Nelsen shares insights from his experience in the cattle industry, discussing market trends, common producer concerns, and the cost-effectiveness of LRP.

He also highlights the importance of government subsidies for small producers and the role of risk management in ensuring the sustainability of cattle operations.

Additionally, Fenton shares his passion for rodeo and how it connects him with the cattle community.

In this episode of the Bushels and Beef podcast, host Nick visits with guests Rich and Steven about ranch life and risk management.

They talk about how Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) can be used as one tool to help manage market ups and downs. The conversation includes personal ranching experiences, thoughts on learning about different risk management options, and ideas for young ranchers as they get started.

Rich and Steven also share their perspectives on working with business partners and paying attention to net profits, not just top-line revenue.

In this podcast episode, Shane Holtorff from Logic Ag Marketing discusses the challenges farmers face with complicated software and the importance of simple, effective tools for grain marketing.

They delve into the services offered by Logic Ag, including grain basis and risk management strategies, while sharing personal anecdotes and insights into the agricultural industry.

The conversation emphasizes the need for education and partnership in making informed marketing decisions.

Takeaways:
Farmers dislike complicated software that is hard to use.
Logic Ag Marketing focuses on grain and livestock risk management.
Indecision in marketing can lead to missed opportunities.
Education is crucial for effective grain marketing strategies.
Having a partner in grain marketing can alleviate stress.
The importance of timely decision-making in agriculture.
Farmers should seek out resources for education and support.
Simple tools can empower farmers to make informed decisions.
Building a partnership with clients is key to success.