In this episode of the Wheat's on Your Mind Podcast, Aaron Harries talks with Lyle Friesen of Friesen Harvesting—a third-generation, family-run custom harvesting business based in Meade, Kansas. 
Starting with humble roots in 1949, Lyle shares how the operation has grown to include modern John Deere combines and Kenworth trucks, all while maintaining deep-rooted family values and relationships with customers, including one family they've harvested for since the beginning. 
Listeners get an insider’s view of the logistical and agricultural challenges of a northbound harvest route stretching from Oklahoma to Montana. 

The conversation touches on the realities of wheat production across states, crop conditions, equipment evolution, and the often-overlooked difficulties of running a mobile business. 
Lyle provides candid insights into the labor challenges, the pressure of working with increasingly narrow harvest windows, and why new wheat varieties are changing the custom harvesting landscape. 
Whether you're in agriculture or simply curious about the lives behind your daily bread, this episode delivers a rich slice of wheat country life.

Key Takeaways

1. Friesen Harvesting has been operating since 1949 and remains family-run.
2. Their custom route spans from Oklahoma to near the Canadian border in Montana.
3. Most of their customers are long-term, with up to 95% repeat annually.
4. Modern combines and efficiency expectations have significantly changed harvesting.
5. Drought, hail, and changing wheat varieties are major challenges.
6. Elevator technology has improved—rarely are there long wait times anymore.
7. Organic transitions and generational shifts have changed farm operations.
8. Hiring quality help is one of the biggest ongoing challenges.
9. Custom harvesting is increasingly difficult for newcomers due to costs.
10. Family plays a central role both in business operations and road life.

00:01 – Origins of Friesen Harvesting: 1949 to now
02:03 – Overview of their home base in Meade, Kansas
02:24 – Annual harvest route from Oklahoma to Montana
04:20 – 2024 wheat outlook: drought, variability, and expectations
06:52 – Impact of wheat variety changes on harvest timing
08:24 – How equipment and expectations have accelerated harvest pace
12:30 – Elevator logistics and why wheat lines are rare now
14:09 – Financial pressure on custom harvesters and their customers
15:29 – Harvest downtime and family dynamics on the road
17:20 – Starting a custom harvest business today: is it feasible?
18:46 – Tornado chasers, field mix-ups, and life on the road
20:14 – Lyle’s 50th harvest season and reflection

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com

In the latest episode of the Wheat's on Your Mind Podcast, Ben Brown, Extension economist at the University of Missouri, joins host Aaron Harries to break down current challenges and developments in U.S. agriculture. 
From his family farm in western Missouri to his influence on national ag policy through FAPRI, Ben offers a unique blend of personal insight and professional analysis. 
The episode covers everything from his Kansas State roots and mentorship by Dr. Barry Flinchbaugh to the evolution of FAPRI as a resource for ag policy evaluation and outreach.

Ben delves into market dynamics, explaining how acreage shifts, international trade, and input costs are reshaping the agricultural landscape. 
He shares comparative insights on Brazilian production advantages and outlines how current tariffs and a weaker U.S. dollar are influencing export behavior. 
The episode concludes with a thoughtful discussion of the status of the Farm Bill, the potential for ad hoc assistance, and the resources available to producers seeking clarity during uncertain times. 
It’s a must-listen for anyone tracking policy and market trends in wheat and beyond.

Ten Takeaways

1. FAPRI provides data-driven policy analysis to inform legislators but does not create policy.
2. Missouri producers typically grow soft red winter wheat due to local infrastructure and market logistics.
3. Cotton and rice are under financial pressure due to global demand and export challenges.
4. Corn acreage is increasing as it out competes other crops financially in many regions.
5. Grain sorghum is seeing unexpected acreage gains despite weak prices.
6. U.S. wheat exports are outperforming expectations amid global uncertainty.
7. Brazil's ag expansion is driven by favorable currency exchange and lower fixed costs.
8. U.S. producers may benefit from adapting Brazilian equipment-sharing strategies.
9. The Farm Bill’s future is uncertain, with budget tensions in Congress stalling progress.
10. Government payments remain a major support mechanism for farm income.

Timestamps

00:01 – Introduction of guest Ben Brown and his background in agriculture and Extension.
01:21 – Family farm operations and diversified strategy with row crops and cattle.
03:29 – Differences between soft red and hard red winter wheat in Missouri.
04:04  – FAPRI’s history, role in farm policy analysis, and national collaboration.
07:28 – Funding sources for FAPRI and outreach efforts like annual conferences.
10:13 – Reflections on K-State, mentorship by Dr. Flinchbaugh, and the impact of international study in Brazil.
13:45  – Brazil's influence on U.S. and global agriculture.
14:43 – U.S. crop outlooks: pressures on cotton, rice, sorghum, corn; implications for wheat.
20:29 – Impact of government payments on net farm income.
22:23  – Tariffs and trade dynamics for sorghum, corn, wheat; resilience of exports.
26:11 – U.S. dollar trends and implications for global trade.
27:51 – Brazil’s cost advantages and machinery-sharing strategies.
32:17 – Status of the Farm Bill, congressional budget debates, ad hoc assistance potential.
36:50 – CCC funding mechanics and limitations for trade assistance.
39:07 – Contact information and closing remarks.
 

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com

In this powerful episode of Wheat’s On Your Mind, Peter Laudeman of U.S. Wheat Associates and Justin Gilpin of Kansas Wheat take listeners on a firsthand journey through East and Southern Africa, where U.S.-grown wheat becomes a lifeline for hundreds of thousands. 
From witnessing heartbreaking ration cuts at the Kakuma refugee camp near the South Sudan border to observing port logistics in Mombasa, they share stories that illuminate the vital role American wheat plays in global food aid. 
Their reflections are both emotional and eye-opening, connecting Kansas farmers to the faces and lives their wheat feeds across the world.

But the journey doesn't stop there. 
In Lesotho, the pair unexpectedly find themselves amid diplomatic conversations following a major U.S. tariff announcement, turning their visit into a lesson on the complex intersection of trade, aid, and agricultural diplomacy. 
They wrap up their mission in Cape Town at the Sub-Saharan Buyers Conference, where the conversation shifts to future market opportunities for hard red winter wheat. 
Whether you're a grower, policy enthusiast, or just curious about the global reach of Kansas wheat, this episode offers rare insight into the human impact of agricultural exports and the critical need for strong, stable food aid programs.

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro and guest overview
01:00 – Purpose of the African food aid journey
02:50 – Why Kenya was chosen for the visit
05:00 – Justin Gilpin’s reflections on visiting refugee camps
07:00 – Inside Kakuma refugee camp and food distribution challenges
08:30 – Mombasa port operations and U.S. wheat logistics
10:15 – Economic ripple effect of U.S. wheat exports
12:00 – Explaining Food for Peace, and. Food for Progress
14:00 – Policy shifts and the push for USDA program leadership
16:00 – Reality of multi-generational refugee life
19:45 – Lesotho visit and unexpected diplomatic attention
24:00 – Sub-Saharan buyers’ conference in Cape Town
26:30 – Reassuring customers amid tariff and trade turbulence
28:00 – Farewell to Peter Laudeman and closing remarks

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com

What does it take to keep farm radio alive and thriving in the heartland? 
Kyle Bauer, a Kansas radio legend and Hall of Fame broadcaster, joins the Wheat’s On Your Mind podcast to share a front-row account of how he built a rural broadcast empire from scratch, starting with a failing FM station and growing it into a multi-station powerhouse serving over 149 counties. 
In this candid conversation, Kyle lays bare the trials and triumphs of keeping radio relevant, local, and valuable to farmers and rural listeners alike. 

From harvest reports to handmade programming schedules, Kyle opens up about his passion for serving the agricultural community, hiring true radio personalities, and training the next generation, sometimes beginning at age 14! 
Whether you're tuning in from the cab of a combine or driving down a dusty Kansas road, this episode is a masterclass in grit, growth, and grassroots media done right.

Timestamps

00:01 – Intro and Kyle Bauer’s unexpected path into radio
02:00 – Saving a dying FM station and evolving it into KCYL
03:50 – Acquiring KFRM and building a multi-state farm network
06:40 – Automation, equipment upgrades, and audience expansion
10:00 – The challenge of filling commercial slots with engaging ag content
14:00 – Hiring and training iconic farm broadcasters
17:00 – Keeping farm radio unique, entertaining, and hyper-local
20:00 – Serving advertisers through relevant, trusted content
22:30 – Shifts in listener demographics and podcasting’s role in audio revival
28:00 – Leveraging K-State Extension and growing ag listenership
30:30 – State of farm broadcasting in Kansas vs. the nation
35:00 – The fight to keep AM radio alive in new vehicles
39:50 – Closing reflections and the future of rural radio

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com

In this episode of Wheat’s On Your Mind, Aaron Harries sits down with Jane DeMarchi, president of the North American Millers Association, to explore the vital connection between grain and goodness. 
Jane shares her rich family history in the baking industry, how NAMA supports millers across the continent, and what it was like to return to the organization at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. 
They dig into policy priorities, including the future of the Farm Bill, food fortification, ingredient safety, and the evolving landscape of the milling industry.

From the rise of snacking trends and high-tech flour mills to the potential of GMO wheat and regenerative agriculture, Jane provides a comprehensive look at where the industry stands—and where it’s headed. 
Whether you're a farmer, miller, policymaker, or just love bread, this episode offers key insights into the grain chain and how collaboration across sectors will shape the next era of food innovation.

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com

In this episode, we sit down with K-State wheat breeder Dr. Allan Fritz, a familiar name to many Kansas wheat growers, to talk about the science behind stronger wheat and better protein. Dr. Fritz shares insights from decades of research focused on improving protein and gluten strength—work that’s directly tied to wheat varieties grown right here in the Central Plains. We dig into the story behind the BX7OE protein, a powerful trait first identified in Red River 68 and rooted in the Canadian super strong wheat class, now reshaping how we think about protein and yield. 

Whether you're aiming for protein premiums or simply trying to stay ahead of the curve, this conversation highlights the importance of selecting the right varieties, understanding the balance between yield and protein, and staying open to rapid innovation. We also talk about how partnerships with institutions like Oklahoma State are helping accelerate the development of high-performing wheat that meets today’s growing demands. If you're farming in Kansas, this is one episode you won't want to miss.

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com

In this episode, Aaron welcomes Alicia Boor, an agriculture and natural resources agent in the Cottonwood District in Kansas, and a vital member of the K State Research and Extension's Stress and Resiliency Team. 
Alicia's work focuses on providing educational resources on stress, stress management, and resilience, particularly within the agricultural community. 
Her efforts are crucial in addressing the unique challenges faced by farmers, who often experience high levels of stress due to the demanding and unpredictable nature of their profession.

Key Insights

- Farmers face unique stressors due to isolation, the desire to be self-reliant, and the stigma around seeking help.
- Kansas ranks high in suicide rates, with farmers being particularly vulnerable, emphasizing the urgent need for mental health support in the agricultural sector.
- Key indicators of stress and potential mental health issues include changes in habits, withdrawal from social activities, and expressions of hopelessness or suicidal thoughts.
- The K State Research and Extension's Stress and Resiliency Team offers various programs, including QPR suicide prevention training and mental health first aid, to support individuals and communities.
- Tele-health and resources like the 988 hotline provide accessible and confidential mental health support options for those in rural areas.
- Kansas Farm Management Association offers valuable resources, including legal assistance, farm transition facilitation, and financial advice, to help farmers manage financial stress.
- Simple practices like deep breathing, physical activity, and building a strong support system can significantly enhance resilience and mental well-being.

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com

We explore how winter wheat contributes to improved crop yields, soil moisture conservation, and effective weed and disease management, drawing from K-State's long-term studies that demonstrate the benefits of winter wheat in enhancing the productivity and sustainability of cropping systems in Kansas.

Aaron Harries and Dr. Romulo Lollato discuss:

Yield Boosts: Discover how rotating crops with winter wheat can significantly increase yields for sorghum (up to 30 bushels more per acre!) and corn (around 15 bushels more).

Moisture Magic: Learn how wheat residue helps keep precious soil moisture, giving your next crops a head start.

Weed & Disease Control: See how wheat residue naturally fights weeds, even tough ones like Palmer amaranth, thanks to its allelopathic properties.

Soil Health: Find out how wheat residue protects against erosion and improves your soil's overall health.

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com

Aaron Harries spoke with Vince Peterson, the president of U.S. Wheat Associates, who shares insights from his extensive career in the wheat industry and discusses his upcoming retirement in 2025. 
In this episode, we explore Vince's journey, the evolution of the global wheat market, and his perspectives on the future of wheat production and trade. From his beginnings at General Mills to his leadership at U.S. Wheat Associates, Vince shares valuable insights gained over decades of experience.

- Discover how the wheat market shifted from government to private sector buyers due to global trade agreements.
- Understand the impact of events like the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the Iraq wars on wheat trade.
- Learn about the importance of providing reliable quality wheat and technical support to developing markets.
- Explore the potential for hard white wheat to enhance market competitiveness.
- Gain advice on embracing challenges with optimism and flexibility in the agricultural sector.

(00:00:01) - Introduction to Wheat's on Your Mind podcast with Aaron Harries and guest Vince Peterson from U.S. Wheat Associates.
(00:00:37) - Vince Peterson's upcoming retirement in 2025 after a long career with U.S. Wheat Associates.
(00:00:55) - Vince Peterson's career path before U.S. Wheat Associates and his initial lack of interest in agriculture.
(00:02:22) - Peterson's first job out of college was buying wheat for General Mills.
(00:03:14) - An offer from a grain export company in Portland, Oregon, led to trading wheat for export.
(00:03:47) - Peterson got to know the U.S. Wheat people while working in Asia and Portland.
(00:04:10) - Winston Wilson offered Peterson a job with U.S. Wheat in 1985.
(00:04:38) - Peterson's role in Egypt as assistant director for the Middle East.
(00:05:48) - Peterson's return to Washington D.C. into a role that didn't exist at the time.
(00:06:33) - Egypt's wheat imports and its shift to a private sector.
(00:07:39) - A snapshot of the global wheat market in 1985 with government agency buyers.
(00:08:52) - The shift from government buying agencies to private agencies.
(00:10:41) - The Canadian Wheat Board and the Australian Wheat Board going away.
(00:13:54) - How US Wheat pivoted after the fall of the Soviet Union.
(00:16:22) - The messaging to U.S. wheat customers over Peterson's career.
(00:18:07) - Technical assistance as a bedrock of the services that US Wheat provides.
(00:19:47) - Larger than life figures Peterson has worked with.
(00:22:25) - World leaders Peterson has met in his career.
(00:25:08) - Peterson's presentations at Latin American buyers conferences.
(00:26:43) - Peterson's crystal ball and his vision for the global wheat market.
(00:28:32) - Peterson's thoughts on the next big change coming about.
(00:30:49) - How the U.S. can meet the demand and where it fits in the picture.
(00:32:33) - Peterson's five wishes to position the U.S. best.
(00:35:46) - What's been most rewarding for Peterson.
(00:37:03) - Peterson's message for farmers about the next decade or two.
(00:38:48) - Best wishes for Vince's retirement.

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com

- Dr. Zhang emphasizes the importance of yield improvement and disease resistance in his breeding objectives.

- He highlights the role of collaboration with local farmers and institutions in enhancing breeding efforts.

- Advanced techniques like double haploids and drone technology are revolutionizing the breeding process.

- Dr. Zhang shares insights on the impact of climate change on wheat production and the need for drought-tolerant varieties.

- He discusses the challenges posed by evolving diseases and the importance of ongoing research.

- Listeners will learn about notable wheat varieties developed under his program, including Joe and KS Dallas.

- Dr. Zhang's future directions include exploring GMO and gene editing to enhance wheat resilience.

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com