While it’s a crop grown mainly in Canada, it’s used all over the world. From cooking oil to biodiesel, canola is a highly important crop. Curtis McRae, a Canadian canola grower, sits down with Ken to chat about his operation, some of the challenges he faces and how he stays involved in the industry.

Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, oh my! Ken dives into soil sampling with Brian Arnall, a precision soil fertility specialist at Oklahoma State University. In this episode, they discuss the importance of soil sampling and how to use it as a tool for decision-making, rather than just a benchmark.

The new year is a perfect time to start planning for the future. Succession planning is a necessity for any business owner. Ken sits down with Wesley Tucker, a University of Missouri field specialist and expert in succession planning, to discuss how important making a plan is and what steps growers should follow.

What are biosolutions, and how do growers use them on their crops? Changes in consumer demands and increased awareness of the environmental impact of growing food has increased the need for biosolutions. Ken sits down with Natalie Hummel, UPL’s Global Head of New Ag Technologies and NPP Platforms, to discuss where biosolutions fit in agriculture and how they are changing crop protection.

Christmas trees are a staple for many during the holiday season, but do you know what goes into growing each tree? Weather conditions are affecting supply as demand for real trees is increasing. Ken sits down with Dr. Melvin Koelling, owner of Tannenbaum Farms and retired forestry professor, and talks about Christmas tree production and its agritourism opportunities.

Pulses have a long history, with the first evidence dating back 11,000 years ago. But what are pulses? Due to changing consumer diets and nutritional wants, pulses are becoming more popular. Ken sits down with Julianne Curran, vice president of market innovation at Pulse Canada, and talks about pulses and the products produced from pulse crops.

How have producers been affected by supply chain disruptions? Due to COVID-19 and labor shortages, consumers are seeing increased prices and producers have been forced to adapt new production systems. Ken sits down with Mallory Rahe, Extension Education professor at the University of Missouri, and talks about the effects of input costs and supply chain issues on consumers.

Are craft breweries the next big purchaser of barley? Due to consumer demand for sustainability and a taste for niche products, malted barley is increasing its presence as a brewing grain. Ken sits down with Matt Hamill, maltster at Red Shed Malting, and talks about malting barley and a new opportunity for growers in barley production.

Is seed technology the driver of each green revolution? Due to advancements in seed genetics and selection, growers are able to produce higher yields, healthier crops and more sustainable food. Ken sits down with Manjit Misra, director of the Seed Science Center at Iowa State University and talks through how seeds are the future of agriculture innovation.

How do natural disasters in the southern United States affect growers in Canada? Ken sits down with Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, to discuss what happens when natural disaster strikes. Mike shares how Hurricane Ida has affected shipments of corn and soybeans along the Mississippi River, exporting via the Gulf of Mexico and more.