Whole Grain

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How do cooperatives enhance stability, resilience, and profitability in the grain industry? In this insightful episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz sits down with Dr. Keri L. Jacobs, Associate Professor of Agricultural and Applied Economics at the University of Missouri and Executive Director of the Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership (GICL).

Dr. Jacobs offers a deep dive into the pivotal role that cooperatives play in supporting grain producers, strengthening local economies, and ensuring the long-term success of agricultural supply chains. From managing volatility in grain markets to advocating for producer interests, cooperatives offer critical solutions that balance market power while creating shared value for members.

Curious about how cooperative governance and leadership impact grain operations? This episode explores how effective cooperative boards and leadership teams can drive innovation, manage risk, and position their organizations for future success. Dr. Jacobs also highlights the importance of leadership development through GICL, which equips cooperative leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate today’s complex agricultural landscape.

Episode Highlights for the Grain Industry

• The impact of cooperatives on grain supply chain stability and producer profitability
• How cooperatives help mitigate price volatility and market risk for grain handlers
• Governance models that strengthen cooperative resilience and operational success
• Challenges and opportunities for cooperatives in grain storage, transportation, and processingInsights into GICL’s role in developing strong cooperative leaders for the grain industry
• Why continuous education and leadership development are key to cooperative success

About Our Guest: Dr. Keri L. Jacobs

Dr. Keri L. Jacobs is an Associate Professor of Agricultural and Applied Economics at the University of Missouri and the Executive Director of the Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership (GICL). With a focus on cooperative governance, leadership development, and agricultural economics, Dr. Jacobs collaborates with cooperative boards, CEOs, and industry leaders to strengthen the effectiveness and resilience of cooperatives in the grain and agricultural sectors.

Links and Resources

• Dr. Keri L. Jacobs LinkedIn Profile 
• Follow GICL on LinkedIn
• Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership (GICL) website  
• Build Better Boards Podcast

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message.

In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz welcomes John Caupert, Executive Director of GEAPS, to discuss the transformational shifts happening in agriculture and what they mean for GEAPS members. Fresh off the success of GEAPS Exchange 2025, John reflects on key takeaways from the event, including the launch of groundbreaking educational initiatives like the Grain Processing Track, the Welcome to the Grain Industry Course, and the GEAPS Grain Industry Glossary.

🔹 Key Takeaways from This Episode:
✅ GEAPS Exchange 2025 Highlights – Recap of key discussions, new technologies in the Expo Hall, and the value of networking.
✅ New Educational Offerings – How the Grain Processing Track expands GEAPS' focus and enhances learning opportunities.
✅ Welcome to the Grain Industry Course – A free, interactive resource designed to support new employees, interns, and hiring managers.
✅ GEAPS Grain Industry Glossary – A practical tool to standardize terminology and improve industry communication.
✅ Looking Ahead for GEAPS – What’s next for GEAPS in 2025 and beyond, including new initiatives and ways members can stay engaged.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation on the future of grain education, industry innovation, and how GEAPS is evolving to serve its members!

Resources & Links

📌 Whole Grain Podcast – Listen & subscribe on:
🔹 Apple Podcasts | YouTube Podcasts | Spotify | Pandora | Amazon Music
🎧 Or stream on the GEAPS website → www.geaps.com/wholegrain

📌 GEAPS Membership & Industry Resources
🔹 Join GEAPS & Access Member Benefits → www.geaps.com/membership
🔹 NEW Free Member-Exclusive Courses → Welcome to the Grain Industry & GEAPS Glossary
🔹 GEAPS Online Courses & Credentialing Program → www.geaps.com/credentialing
🔹 GEAPS Video Library & Webinars → www.geaps.com

📌 Industry Events & Training
🔹 GEAPS Exchange – The Biggest Show in Grain! → www.geaps.com/exchange
🔹 Kansas State University Hands-On Training & Grain Elevator Managers Course

📌 Sponsorship & Advertising Opportunities
Want to sponsor an episode, be a featured guest, or place an ad on the Whole Grain Podcast? Let’s connect!
📩 Contact Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education & Training, GEAPS → [email protected]

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message.

What if the future of renewable energy could lie in the hands of agriculture? In this captivating conversation, host Jim Lenz, sits down with Eric McAfee, the visionary CEO of Aemetis. 

McAfee shares groundbreaking insights into sustainable and innovative renewable fuel solutions that benefit communities and restore our environment. You'll learn how Aemetis is pioneering carbon-negative biofuel solutions and harnessing the power of agricultural resources, emphasizing the dual use of corn for both food and fuel. From California's largest ethanol plant to innovative operations in India, Eric takes us on a journey exploring the strategic roles of biofuels in global energy independence.
 
 Curious about the role of government policy in renewable energy investments? This episode dives deep into the transformative potential of the 45Z tax credit within the biofuels and agriculture industries. Discover the economic and environmental advantages of supporting local agriculture through policies like California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard and the innovative use of dairy methane. Our discussion uncovers the importance of tax credits, the nuances of their transferability, and the exciting potential for renewable fuel markets in reducing carbon footprints and enhancing energy efficiency.
 
 Explore the opportunities within the ethanol industry as it embraces low-carbon practices and innovative technologies. We highlight the potential of integrating low-carbon feedstocks and the critical role of grain elevators in promoting sustainable farming. Eric shares his vision for the future, detailing the promising paths for those passionate about agriculture and energy—and how these efforts are reversing climate change. Get ready to be inspired by the strides being made in the renewable energy sector and the exciting horizons that lie ahead.

This episode dives deep into the transformative potential of the 45Z tax credit within the biofuels and agriculture industries, as explained by Eric McAfee. We explore how renewable practices can create significant economic opportunities while contributing to sustainability efforts and enhancing energy independence.
 
 Highlights
 • Overview of the 45Z tax credit and its significance
 • Insights on the role of Aemetis and renewable energy investments
 • The intersection of biofuels, agriculture, and sustainability
 • Impacts of dairy digesters on renewable energy landscapes
 • The importance of unified advocacy within the grain-biofuels community
 • Future prospects for energy independence and agriculture integration
 • Calls for action to promote supportive policies for renewable energy

Link(s)

·      https://www.aemetis.com

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message.

Discover the keys to mastering conveyor system maintenance in grain operations with our special guest, Jake Crockford from IBT Industrial Solutions. Jake shares with the Whole Grain podcast host and GEAPS’ Director of Education and Training, Jim Lenz, his profound expertise on overcoming obstacles in grain facilities, from aging equipment to workforce shortages, and offers vital insights into optimizing efficiency. Learn how a problem-solving mindset and a broad understanding can make a significant difference, whether that's through simple adjustments of components like Sheaves or by enhancing communication with suppliers. We promise you'll walk away with actionable strategies to keep your grain operations running smoothly.
 
 As the grain industry faces a generational shift, hear about the innovative training programs designed to bridge the knowledge gap between seasoned professionals and a younger workforce. Jake and I discuss the pressing importance of part identification and maintenance, especially in older facilities, and how collaboration with suppliers and manufacturers can ensure operational efficiency. We'll emphasize the critical role of preventative maintenance, and the proactive steps grain facility workers can take to improve efficiency, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and development.
 
 Effective communication is at the heart of efficient grain operations. This episode sheds light on the differing priorities of grain facilities and how understanding turnaround times can make or break efficiency. Jake offers his insights on optimizing conveyor systems and the importance of stocking essential spare parts to minimize downtime. We also touch on the broader challenges and opportunities facing the industry, from drought conditions to market trends, and extend our gratitude to the grain handling industry for its invaluable contributions to feeding the world. Join us for an enlightening discussion that promises to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this crucial sector.

 Important Links:

• IBT Industrial Solutions – Grain Division
• IBT Industrial Solutions – Ethanol Industry Products and Solutions
• Shop IBT Industrial Solutions - www.shopibt.com
• IBT Industrial Solutions - Home Page
• Visit IBT Industrial Solutions at – GEAPS Exchange

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message.

In this insightful episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz sits down with Robert White, Vice President of Industry Relations and Market Development at the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA). With decades of experience in ethanol market development and a deep connection to the grain industry, Robert brings a wealth of knowledge about the transformative role of renewable fuels.

Together, Jim and Robert explore the evolving landscape of biofuels, focusing on ethanol’s significance for corn, soybeans, and sorghum producers. They discuss how over 40% of U.S. corn production is directed toward ethanol and what that means for grain handling and processing facilities. The conversation also delves into the emergence of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), its potential as a game-changer for the biofuels sector, and the opportunities it presents for grain industry stakeholders.

Robert shares actionable insights on tackling persistent misconceptions about ethanol, the importance of advocacy in shaping policy, and the global market’s growing appetite for U.S.-produced biofuels. Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of how to position their operations for future success and support the growing demand for renewable fuels.

Key Topics Covered:

• The current state of the ethanol industry and its impact on grain markets.
• Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and its potential to disrupt both biofuels and grain markets.
• Strategies for grain professionals to increase awareness and advocate for renewable fuels.
• The role of state and federal policies in shaping the future of biofuels.
• Global growth opportunities and the U.S. role in meeting international demand for ethanol.

Guest Expert: Robert White is the Vice President of Industry Relations at the Renewable Fuels Association. With a career spanning decades in ethanol advocacy and education, Robert is a leading voice in renewable fuel market development and an advocate for its benefits to farmers, grain handlers, and the broader agriculture sector.

Important Links:

• Learn more about the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA): www.ethanolrfa.org
• Veterans for Renewable Fuels: https://ethanolrfa.org/veterans
• Explore educational resources on biofuels: 
  • Reports, Studies, and White Papers
  • Fact Sheets
  • Annual Industry Outlook

Connect with GEAPS: Stay informed about future episodes and learn more about GEAPS:

• Website: www.geaps.com
• GEAPS Exchange
• Online Course Catalog
• Whole Grain Podcast Page

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message.

Unlock the secrets to staying ahead in the grain industry as we gear up for the GEAPS Exchange 2025, the ultimate event for grain professionals. With GEAPS Executive Director John Caupert joining us, learn how this year’s conference is set to break new ground with over 400 exhibitors and the debut of a cutting-edge grain processing track. Get insider knowledge on the event’s structure and the pivotal role GEAPS members play in feeding, fueling, and clothing the world. Prepare for an unparalleled professional development experience as we explore the four educational tracks—Processing, Employee Development, Safety, and Grain Operations—that promise to enrich your industry expertise.

Networking is king, and we guide you through the art of making invaluable connections at GEAPS Exchange. Discover practical strategies for engaging with key industry players and making the most of the social events, from the Mixer for new and international attendees to the Expo Hall Welcome Reception. With insights from seasoned board members, find out how to leverage the Exchange Expo’s innovation stations and grain entrapment rescue demonstrations to stay ahead of industry trends. Don’t miss this chance to expand your network and knowledge, ensuring your place at the forefront of grain handling and processing.

The biggest and best event in the Grain Industry, GEAPS Exchange 2025 is taking place February 22nd through the 25th at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Missouri, USA. Our guest commentators for this episode are John Caupert, GEAPS’ Executive Director, Adrianne Fjerstad-Miller, Director of Conference and Exhibitions, Betsy Polis, Director of Special Projects and Events, along with two representatives of the GEAPS International Board of Directors, Chuck Kunisch, Board Chair and Austin Carpenter, Board President.

They’ll describe the structure, the detail, and how you don’t want to miss all the fun at the biggest and best show in the grain industry, GEAPS Exchange 2025! You’ll also want to follow along by visiting the event page at www.geaps.com/exchange.  
Links: 

• GEAPS Exchange Website
• Exchange Education
• Exchange Registration

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message.

In her job at Cargill, GEAPS Member April-Hope Wareham serves as continuous improvement lead for more than 30 grain terminals along and east of the Mississippi River. In the latest episode of Whole Grain Podcast, GEAPS’s Director of Education and Training Jim Lenz talks to Wareham about her wealth of experience in barge, bluewater shipping, rail operations and food safety. Wareham shares her insights on how continuous improvement is transforming the grain industry.

Listen as Wareham shares valuable insights on how continuous improvement practices are revolutionizing efficiency, safety, sustainability, technology adoption and food quality. Her guiding mantra—inspired by William Shakespeare—serves as a beacon for staying open-minded and embracing the unexpected.
 
 Wareham describes the practical application of continuous improvement and lean methodologies within grain elevators and food production. Wareham explains the concept of Kaizen and its role in fostering a culture of good change, emphasizing the importance of adapting to evolving customer needs and workforce dynamics. The show also tackles the challenges of implementing these strategies, especially financial constraints and the necessity for cost-benefit analysis. Additionally, we discuss global food insecurity and the innovative efforts by companies like Cargill to create a sustainable food system. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in agriculture, continuous improvement and career development in this dynamic industry.
 
Key Topics Covered

• Definition of continuous improvement in the grain industry
• Strategies for enhancing operational efficiency and reducing waste
• Importance of safety protocols and training in grain operations 
• Innovations in technology and their impact on grain handling 
• Sustainable practices for reducing energy consumption and waste 
• Quality control measures to ensure food safety and complianceGuest Bio

Guest Bio
April-Hope Wareham is the Continuous Improvement Grain Lead for more than 30 interior grain terminals along and east of the Mississippi River at Cargill. With more than a decade of experience in barge, bluewater shipping and rail operations, she has also managed food safety for multiple grain facilities. Wareham recently earned her Master of Science degree in Supply Chain Management with a focus on grain transportation from Michigan State University. She serves as the National Executive Secretary for Women in Maritime Operations (WIMOs) and sits on the International Education Programming Committee for GEAPS.

Resources and Links

• Cargill
• Women in Maritime Operations (WIMOs)
• GEAPS Exchange

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message.

Have you ever wondered how to transform your grain inventory management for peak efficiency and profitability? In this episode of Whole Grain, we're joined by Jim Voigt, a long-time veteran of the grain industry with extensive experience in inventory management. 

Voigt's career spans several decades, during which he has significantly contributed to the growth and efficiency of major companies like ADM. He has sourced and trained more than 5,000 employees to supervise and manage ADM grain facilities in North and South America, facilitated the expansion of ADM’s Domestic Grain Operations, and played a pivotal role in establishing ADM’s International Grain Operations in South America. He has also co-founded ADM’s Continuous Improvement Support Team, enhancing plant efficiencies and inventory management. As the president of JFV Solutions Inc., Jim Voigt provides top-tier consulting services, facility analysis, and operations management training. Jim Voigt is also past president of GEAPS' International Board of Directors. 

Voigt's career at ADM and extensive experience in the grain industry make him the perfect guide to explore the essential components of inventory management, and how they can profoundly impact operational success, profitability, and sustainability.

We tackle some of the most pressing challenges in grain storage management. Jim sheds light on the critical importance of time management and proper training to prevent those end-of-month shocks. Discover the nuances of permanent versus temporary storage solutions, and gain insights into best practices for maintaining grain quality amidst the complexities of airflow management and environmental factors. Voigt's real-life experiences and case studies offer practical strategies to navigate these challenges effectively.

Finally, we discuss the future of grain inventory management, from the implementation of SOPs to the integration of advanced automation and technology. Voigt explains how these innovations enhance accuracy, reduce human error, and improve operational efficiency across multiple locations. We also touch on the complexities of forecasting in the grain industry, sharing the importance of flexibility and contingency planning. 

Tune in to learn how modernization and technology can revolutionize your inventory management practices, ensuring sustained success in a rapidly evolving industry.

Links:

• GEAPS' Management Basics for Grain Facility Supervisors online course
• GEAPS membership information
• JFV Solutions, Inc.

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn soybeans into the versatile products we use daily? You might know Danny Lein as one of the newest additions to GEAPS International Board of Directors. He's also a skilled plant manager at Oxbow Crush in Greenwood, Mississippi. In this episode, Lein takes us step-by-step through the  soy crush process. 

From the moment soybeans arrive by truck or rail, to the detailed tempering and dehulling procedures, Lein shares his extensive knowledge as well as his personal journey in the industry— from sweeping floors to managing an entire plant. 

Even if you think you know a lot about soy, you're sure to learn something as we discuss the many products derived from soybeans and the critical roles and responsibilities of a plant manager in keeping operations running smoothly.

In the second half of our conversation, we explore the cutting-edge advancements and economic trends reshaping the soy processing industry. Discover how the shift from manual operations to advanced Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) is revolutionizing efficiency and data accessibility. Lein also highlights innovations in energy-saving technologies and discusses the rising demand for soy products, which has spurred significant investments in soy crush facilities worldwide.

Despite the challenges in finding quality talent post-COVID, Lein offers an optimistic view of future growth projections, emerging markets, and technological advancements poised to further enhance the industry's capabilities. Tune in to gain valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the soy processing world!

Lein also shares a first-hand account on the value of involvement with GEAPS chapters and the annual GEAPS Exchange.

Links:

• GEAPS online course catalog
• GEAPS Exchange - The Biggest and Best Show in the Grain Industry
• GEAPS membership information
• GEAPS chapters information

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message.

What if the key to building a successful agricultural career lies in a well-structured internship? Join us as we discuss the transformative potential of internships in the agriculture industry. Our guest, Dustin Toberman, president and founder of OMNI Ag, shares his vast experience and insights on how internships have evolved from informal roles to structured, skill-enhancing opportunities. Discover how involving interns in real-world tasks like customer interactions and grain trading can sharpen their professional abilities and prepare them for a competitive job market.

Learn from compelling anecdotes that highlight the significant impact a thoughtfully designed internship program can have, not just on interns, but on a company's reputation as well. We explore the pitfalls many companies encounter, such as lack of structure and meaningful tasks, and offer solutions to create mutually beneficial programs. Dustin emphasizes the importance of mentorship, hands-on projects, and feedback mechanisms in developing future leaders, stressing that interns should be integrated into both day-to-day functions and high-level meetings to fully grasp the workings of the industry.

As we conclude, we discuss the evolving expectations of the next generation of agricultural leaders and the critical role of feedback, evaluations, and exit interviews in wrapping up internships. Dustin shares strategies for ensuring that debrief sessions are productive and open, helping organizations refine their programs for future success. Don't miss Dustin's valuable insights and practical tips for enhancing your organization's internship programs and fostering the next wave of agricultural talent.

Links:

• Special $75 Pricing for Interns and other students to enroll in the GEAPS Introduction to Grain Operations Course - https://www.geaps.com/course/introduction-to-grain-operations/
• Info about OMNI Ag

Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.