Research scientist Dr. Ryan Schmid and student scientist, Tia Busenitz both from the Ecdysis Foundation, join us for episode 081. Ryan leads the foundation’s rangeland studies. His current research focuses on how regenerative grazing affects pollinator and dung arthropod communities, and how arthropods facilitate the cycling of nutrients in Grasslands. Tia’s current research is focused on honey bee health and hive management, as well as land management effects on pollinator conservation and survival. 

Add passion and purpose to the pollinators, pastures and poop discussion. It’s folks like Ryan and Tia and all the researchers at Ecdysis that are helping us uncover and understand all of these different communities through, as they say, their “cutting edge research for transforming agriculture with regenerative principles.” So listen in as Monte discusses with Ryan and Tia all things pollinators, pastures and poop!  

Ryan Schmid is a research scientist with Ecdysis Foundation since 2018, where he leads the foundation’s rangeland studies. He credits his upbringing on a family-farm for honing his interest to work with ranchers investigating ecosystem services provided by arthropods in rangelands. His current research focuses on how regenerative grazing affects pollinator and
dung arthropod communities, and how arthropods facilitate the cycling of nutrients in Grasslands.

Katya (Tia) Busenitz is a student scientist at Ecdysis Foundation while pursuing her master’s degree in entomology from UNL. Her admiration for insects and the natural world led her towards entomology, then inevitably into sustainable agriculture and agroecology. Her current research is focused on honeybee health and hive management, as well as land management effects on pollinator conservation and survival.

Watch episode: https://youtu.be/e5jg_WJv3aw

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? 
Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

Check out the Ecdysis Foundation's website for all the research they are doing, it's exciting work!

https://www.ecdysis.bio/

081 AgEmerge Podcast With Ecdysis Foundation's Dr. Ryan Schmid and Tia Busenitz

Tyler Dawley owns and operates Big Bluff Ranch in Red Bluff, California. Big Bluff leads with quality, health, and happiness as their guiding principles. And while they say Big Bluff Ranch may be a small organic chicken farm compared to high-yield industrial operations, they’re one of the largest producers of pasture-raised chicken on the west coast. Today Monte and Tyler explore the path Big Bluff Ranch is taking to build a resilient food system that fits their context. And the great thing is, Tyler is willing to share not only their success but also their mistakes so he can help growers learn from his experiences. Tyler describes himself as the “Head Chicken Wrangler”, listen in and you’ll learn why.

Watch episode: https://youtu.be/KAAJYN2H-8Q

Big Bluff is a true family-owned and operated ranch.
Quality, health, and happiness are our guiding principles - and they impact every aspect of what we do, from how our pastured chickens are raised, to how they’re fed, and everything in-between.
More than just a sustainable chicken farm

Big Bluff Ranch may be a small organic chicken farm compared to high-yield industrial operations, but we’re one of the largest producers of pasture-raised chicken on the west coast. 

"We’re small because we are a true family-owned ranch, with each family member pitching in to help. We’re small in that we are personally involved in every aspect of production, from how we raise our pastured chickens to locally sourcing feed and processing with people we know who share the same values.
This personal involvement ensures that animal welfare, sustainability, and regenerative farming remain at the forefront of everything we do. But Big Bluff Ranch is much more than that."

Big Bluff Ranch: a destination for eco-tourists and an advocate for environmental stewardship. The ranch is a beautiful 2,776 acres of rolling hills, grasslands, and oak woodlands that border the Mendocino National Forest and the Coast Range.
Because of this, we’re also a destination for ecotourism and partner with our community in the shared goal of a sustainable and healthy landscape. 
We work with the Wildlife Conservation Board, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Northern California Regional Land Trust to implement the goals and objectives of the Red Bank Creek Riparian Restoration Project. Our partnership will help restore 3 miles of Red Bank Creek, a tributary to the Sacramento River.

https://www.bigbluffranch.com/

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? 
Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

AgEmerge Podcast 107 with Tyler Dawley of Big Bluff Ranch

Frank Lessiter, Founder Lessiter Media and Editor of No-Till Farmer, interviews Monte for the No-Till Farmer Influencers and Innovations Podcast. Frank and Monte discuss soil health, no-till and the regenerative agriculture movement and much more. 

Frank is the son of a fifth-generation Michigan dairy farm father and ag engineer and whose mother, a high school English teacher, influenced his love of storytelling. Pam, a business education graduate, was the daughter of an elementary school teacher and an industrial education professor. Graduates of Michigan State University, Frank and Pam met on the MSU campus, where both were employed in the university’s information services offices.

On March 6, 1981, Frank and Pam hung out their own shingle upon acquiring a magazine, trade show and newsletter (with a staff of 5) from Reiman Publications (now part of Reader’s Digest), where Frank was executive vice president and chief editorial director. With a new company formed at the onset of the worst farm recession ever, their first decade in business brought challenges, yet also forged and annealed a foundation for what would become a very different kind of publishing company. And principles that would serve it as it evolved still several decades later.

Watch full episode here: https://youtu.be/2B392Lq21Xg

Through those lean years and the period of growth that followed, the name “Lessiter” (which at one time depended solely on paid-subscriptions), became synonymous with words like “actionable, meaningful, practical and relevant” for the content it delivered to its highly targeted audiences. Not fluff, not advertorials nor PR-speak, but rather unbiased, independent information that its subscribers and attendees could weigh, and act upon. “Where content becomes knowledge” began to be woven into the fabric of the Lessiter name.

The decades that followed attracted new talent, and brought launches, acquisitions, new events and digital media channels. And yes, a few divestitures, too, as the company focused on the segments in which it could most make a difference. But the content-first approach has never wavered since that day in 1981 and Lessiter Media impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of subscribers, marketers and employees — as well as their families and ensuing generations.

The small company launched an independent, unbiased conference for farmers when Monsanto was going to control the message to farmers. It unearthed lightning-rod topics that had be addressed when others didn’t want to “rock the boat” —unscrupulous practices affecting equine health, attempts at governmental regulation of farriers, and the brand purity and other “unwritten” tactics taking place in the farm equipment industry. On more than one occasion, the company elected to walk away from business rather than yield editorial independence.

“We’ve refused to compromise on editorial quality as we deliver practical, ‘meat-and-potato’ content in everything we do,” says Lessiter. “This means delivering content that readers need to advance their businesses and lives. This has allowed us to achieve number-one status as the information source in each segment of the Niche Markets we serve — because the needs of the audience are placed first.”

https://www.no-tillfarmer.com/

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? 
Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

AgEmerge Podcast 112 with Frank Lessiter

Daniel Pepitone is one of the co-founders of Harpe Bio Herbicide Solutions, where they developed a series of natural-based herbicides utilizing plant extracts. It’s fascinating how this mode of action works.

With more than 15 years of experience in the agricultural product development business arena, Daniel served in a range of senior commercial effectiveness, marketing, and industry relations roles for BASF. His expertise includes the development and implementation of internal and external global launch and branding strategies for new active ingredient molecules as well as establishing differentiated customer experience while advocating in behalf of farmers. 

His executive management experience includes serving as Vice President and Partner in a privately-owned marketing company whereas part of the senior management team he helped shape company philosophy and led new business acquisition.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Daniel spent time supporting operations on his family’s farm as a livestock producer in Modiin, Israel before returning to the United States to complete a Bachelor of the Arts degree (hon) in Marketing and Communications from Rutgers University – The State University of New Jersey.

https://harpebio.com/

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? 
Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

AgEmerge Podcast 140 with Daniel Pepitone of Harpe Bioherbicde

David Kleinschmidt is the owner of Progressive Agronomy Consulting Services. His experience, keen observations, and thorough scrutiny of data makes for a great discussion as he and Monte explore real-time soil health systems and the tools he uses to evaluate those systems. 

There are no silver bullets when it comes to the tools and resources farmers implement. But there is a path forward built on informed decisions, adaptability, and a deep understanding of your unique farming system.

As David shares, soil health is a journey, not a destination. With his work focusing on better soil testing, nutrient cycling, and the power of timing and diversity, he continues to bridge the gap between conventional and regenerative practices, empowering farmers to make informed decisions that benefit both their present needs and future sustainability. And if you’d like to make informed decisions on adopting effective soil health practices, let us help! 

You can contact us at asn.farm and find us on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and Rumble. 

David Kleinschmidt grew up on a diverse family farm in west-central Illinois, cultivating corn, soybeans, wheat, hogs, and even Christmas trees. Originally pursuing veterinary studies, he shifted to agricultural economics after realizing the importance of managing farms for profitability. From 2004 to 2012, David worked in ag retail, selling seed, chemicals, fertilizers, and installing planter systems. His career took a pivotal turn in 2012 when he began promoting cover crops to farmers, sparking his interest in soil health and the overlooked biological dynamics of farming. This shift led him to a path of observational farming and in-depth research into soil biology.

In 2018, David left the corporate ag retail world to start consulting, embracing a purist approach to promoting cover crops, no-till, and holistic soil management. Today, he focuses on empowering farmers with advanced soil testing, optimized nutrient application timing, and fostering microbial diversity, bridging conventional and regenerative practices to enhance both immediate yields and long-term soil health.

https://www.facebook.com/progressiveagronomyconsulting

Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

AgEmerge Podcast 149 with David Kleinschmidt

As a trailblazer in soil health and regenerative practices, Adam Daugherty, a farmer, educator, and NRCS Soil Health Specialist for the State of Tennessee. Adam has inspired farmers to embrace big, diverse cover crops and innovative no-till practices that challenge the conventional norms. So listen in as we talk about his journey that’s full of resilience and practical wisdom.

Adam is the new Tennessee State Soil Health Specialist after serving as the district conservationist for the Manchester Field Office since 2013. He began his NRCS career in August 2002 as a soil conservationist at Manchester. He was selected as district conservationist at the Winchester Field Office in 2005 and served as the area resource conservationist in the
Murfreesboro Area Office from 2008 until May 2013.

Adam operates a small family farm where his wife, Jaime, and two sons, Brady and Tanner, specialize in regeneratively grown produce. They continually experiment with pushing the limits on biomass management and agro-ecological production systems. Recently Adam has begun expanding the application of the soil health principles into his annual wildlife management systems. In his spare time, he is an avid outdoorsman. If not rolling down covers or planting and managing a crop, Adam tries to spend ample time at traditional archery competitions bowhunting whitetail deer, or coaxing in thunder chickens.

Adam was born in Cumberland County, grew up in the masonry and stone fabrication industry, and graduated from Cumberland County High School. He has a bachelor's degree in agriculture from Tennessee Tech University and a master's degree in biosystems engineering technology from the University of Tennessee.

Adam's Email:  adam.daugherty@usda.gov

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

AgEmerge Podcast 150 with Adam Daugherty Soil Health Specialist - NRCS State of Tennessee

Thanks for listening today, we’re digging into the power of regenerative farming, enterprise stacking, and community-driven agriculture with our guest, Lydia Dresbach. Lydia’s story is a testament to rethinking what’s possible on the farm—from growing heritage grains and running agritourism events to creating a thriving ecosystem of many enterprises! Get ready to be inspired by her vision for stewardship, her dedication to community, and her commitment to crafting a future where farming is sustainable, profitable, and deeply connected to the people it serves.

Lydia Dresbach is a young farmer at Dresbach Farms, a multigenerational regenerative farm located in southern Ohio, focused on providing quality food to her community through stacking enterprises, stewarding well, and direct marketing. She currently manages all direct marketing for Dresbach Farms, has her own herd of cattle, has a large role in the agritourism events hosted on the farm, dabbles in vegetable production, is a part of a local heritage grain hub, and assists with the managing of the whole farm operation.

https://dresbachfarms.grazecart.com/

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? 
Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.


AgEmerge Podcast 151 with Lydia Dresbach of Dresbach Farms

Guest host David Kleinschmidt joined us at the 2024 Big Soil Health Event in Cedar Falls, IA, where we had the privilege of connecting with some incredible attendees.

It was a great event where hundreds of farmers and ranchers from all over the country gathered to learn, share, and encourage each other to continue to adopt soil health strategies. We asked attendees to join us in our “on the road" studio to share their soil health journey.

Below is our BSHE podcast guest list showing where they are from and how you can connect:

Tony Peirick 
Tony farms lives in south-central Wisconsin and he’s also the chairman of a farmer-led group in Wisconsin called Dodge County Farmers Healthy Soil, Healthy Water. Tony is also involved in the Fields of Sinsinawa. 
https://fishersandfarmers.org/groups/dodge-county-farmers-for-healthy-soil-healthy-water/
https://fieldsofsinsinawa.org/

Blake Vince
Blake is a fifth-generation farmer from Merlin, Ontario, Canada. Blake will tell you that soil health is the focus of his farm practices. You may have heard Blake speak at other events - his wisdom and perspective on soil health is certainly an encouragement to growers striving to improve their systems.
https://www.notill.org/blake-vince
https://www.cpm-magazine.co.uk/sustainable-farming/conversations-with-blake-vince-roots-not-iron/

Grant and Dawn Breitkreutz
Grant & Dawn operate Stoney Creek Farm near Redwood Falls, MN.  They are also the inaugural Minnesota Leopold Conservation Award. You’ve seen them on Farmer’s Footprint and so many other places. Their story offers so much hope and sage advice to other growers.
https://sandcountyfoundation.org/news/2024/dawn-and-grant-breitkreutz-receive-minnesota-leopold-conservation-award
https://www.mnsoilhealth.org/mentors/dawn-and-grant-breitkreutz/
https://farmersfootprint.us/grant-and-dawn-breitkreutz/

Phil Smith
Phil farms in Minnesota and has a great story of adopting a regenerative system on his farm and encourages growers to know it’s never too late to start!

Adam Chappell
Adam is from Cotton Plant, Arkansas. They grow about 2,500 acres of, corn, soybeans, rice, and occasionally cotton. You've probably seen Adam on YouTube and other avenues as he has been very transparent of their soil health journey and practices. 
https://farmersfootprint.us/adam-chappell/

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? 
Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

AgEmerge Podcast 152: The Big Soil Health Event 2024

Juan Whiting is a 4th-generation farmer, ag entrepreneur, author, and a seasoned expert in navigating the often-complicated world of grant writing and agricultural funding. From working with the Conflict and Development Foundation in East Africa to leading his own consulting company, Stray Acres LLC, Juan has a unique passion for linking farmers, ranchers, and their partners to the funding they need to build better environments, communities, and food systems. 

As a 4th generation farmer and an ag entrepreneur, Juan has weathered storms, both literal and figurative. Grants have provided a stable foundation to innovate, lead, and build operations even when cashflow was limited. Grant writing started as a job as he led funded projects for the Conflict and Development Foundation in East Africa, it became a source of funding for his own farm management company, and today it is a passion, as he leads top industry leaders and high performing teams in their pursuit of funding with his consulting company, Stray Acres LLC. 

He spent over 8 years in East Africa working on community and agricultural related projects. Juan is deeply passionate about linking farmers, ranchers and their partners to the funding and support they need to improve their environments, build communities, and strengthen food systems. Whether it is a small community garden or a full-scale ranching operation, there is a story to be told and organizations with the funds to make it a reality.

Juan proudly serves as an Agricultural Specialist/Civil Affairs officer in the US Army. He contributes to the army's mission and objectives of winning hearts and minds overseas and promoting the American way of life by feeding empty stomachs. When he is not pushing revolutions in the ag industry, Juan is spending time with his beautiful wife and 5 kids homeschooling, cooking, road tripping or simply connecting with the outdoors the way it was meant to be.

If you’d like to learn more about Juan’s work with Stray Acres LLC or his holistic funding approach, check out his book, The Holistic Funding Approach, available on Amazon. 

You can also visit his website at strayacresconsulting.com to explore tools, services, and even take a quiz to see what funding solutions are right for you.

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? 

Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

AgEmerge Podcast 154 with Juan Whiting

Luke and Thad Bergschneider are from Central Illinois where Luke is a University of Illinois Soil Scientist and Researcher and Thad is the current National FFA President. The future of agriculture is in good hands! 

These bright, articulate, knowledgeable men are critical thinkers, who are exploring how they can be an asset to agriculture. Growing up on their family farm, these two have grown not just crops and livestock, but also a passion for the future of agriculture. Luke, a crop scientist and researcher at the University of Illinois, is dedicated to studying soil health, water quality, and nutrient cycles—bridging the gap between science and real-world farming. Meanwhile, Thad has taken a bold step into national leadership, serving as the National FFA President, advocating for agricultural education and inspiring the next generation of changemakers.

From hands-on experience in the field to cutting-edge research and nationwide advocacy, these brothers are shaping the future of agriculture in their own unique ways. 

Luke and Thad Bergschneider, two of seven siblings, grew up immersed in agriculture on their family farm in Central Illinois. There they gained firsthand experience raising corn, soybeans, and cattle, along with forays into pigs, turkeys, and sheep. 

After high school Luke studied agronomy at Western Illinois University and then attended University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where he received a MS in Crop Sciences. He now works with the UIUC Soils Lab supporting multiple on-farm research projects studying water quality and nutrient cycles while continuing to contribute part-time to the family farm. 

Thad, after joining Luke at UIUC for a semester, is now taking a gap year to serve as the National FFA President. In this role, he is dedicating his time to advocating for agriculture, promoting agricultural education, and supporting the next generation of leaders who will change the world.

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? 

Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

AgEmerge Podcast 155 with Luke and Thad Bergschneider

Two soil science powerhouses from Kansas State University: Dr. Ganga Hettiarachchi and Dr. Charles Rice explore a fundamental but often overlooked question—are all soil nutrients the same?

The simple answer, no. Not all nutrients are created equal. The source matters. The form matters. And the way nutrients interact with soil minerals, microbes, and organic matter? It’s a whole other level of complexity.

We also talk about carbon—how it moves, how it’s stored, and how it could be the key to building resilient soils that thrive for generations.
 
Visit their work here:

Dr. Ganga Hettiarachchi: https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/research/faculty-labs/soil-environment-chem/
Dr. Charles Rice: https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/about/people/faculty/rice-charles/
 
This episode is packed with groundbreaking insights for scientists and farmers. Click below to watch or listen and as always, let us know if you have any questions or guest ideas by emailing kim@asn.farm.

AgEmerge Podcast 157 with Dr. Ganga Hettiarachchi and Dr. Charles Rice at Kansas State University

We’re making history in the AgEmerge podcast because we are chatting, in real time, with Grok, an AI built by xAI. We think this is kind of a big deal for the podcast, but also for everyone engaged in agriculture, because AI is really pushing us to change our paradigms and the way we think about our management practices and decisions. Think about soil data crunching, smarter grazing plans, and regenerative farming that’s next-level sustainable. Monte is pumped to bring this to you. How cool is it to see AI dive into regenerative ag, from soil health to connecting farms with folks who love their food? Not to mention the power of the data analytics for farms - it’s mind-blowing.  So, thanks for listening as we continue to bring you some out-of-the-box guests. We’ve included links to Grok here in the show notes, and as always, you can learn more about what we are doing to help you adopt effective soil health practices that fit your context and operation. You can find us at asn.farm, and there you can click on links to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube. There’s a lot of great things happening, and always something to learn!

Find Grok here at https://grok.com

Got questions you want answered?  Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers.  Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? 
Send your questions or suggestions to kim@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you.

160 AgEmerge Podcast with a Mystery Guest

Brad Downing is the President and owner of Cross Creek Ag Solutions in Greentown, Indiana. Brad has committed to understanding the “why” behind farming practices. He and his team work to facilitate collaboration and education, helping farmers navigate the complexities of soil health, weather, and sustainable growth. He and Monte dig into the why and the how when it comes to implementation and adoption. 

Brad grew up immersed in his family’s farm, cultivating a deep passion for agriculture alongside sports. Brad’s career began in the seed industry, where he spent nearly 14 years with Beck’s Hybrids, rising to district sales manager and leading the farm business team. 

His entrepreneurial drive led him to launch Cross Creek Farms in 2014, farming collaboratively with a neighbor, and Cross Creek Ag Solutions in 2017, a dealership focused initially on seed. Over time, his farm evolved into a research hub, testing bio-nutritional products to uncover what truly works for farmers. 

Today, Cross Creek distributes innovative products across 11 states and offering custom application, seed, and trucking services. Brad fosters collaboration and education, helping farmers navigate the complexities of soil health, weather, and sustainable growth. Alongside Marcia and a dedicated team, he continues to innovate, ensuring Cross Creek remains a trusted partner for farmers seeking data-driven, practical solutions.
Cross Creek Ag Website:  https://crosscreekag.com

ACRES U.S.A. Farm Weird Event at Jason Mauck farm in Indiana
Link: https://conference.eco-ag.com/farmweird

And if you’d like to learn more about the soil health systems that we are passionate about, check out our website at asn.farm, and there you can click on links to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube. There’s a lot of great things happening and always something to learn.

Let us know if you have any questions or guest ideas by emailing kim@asn.farm.

161 AgEmerge Podcast with Brad Downing - Cross Creek Ag Solutions

From equipment to crop nutrition, products and practices, Monte Bottens shares the latest and greatest happenings of Bottens Family Farms. 

Monte is an open book when it comes to helping farmers see what is possible. His recommendations to others come from years of on-farm trials, product experimentation, and pushing the boundaries of scaling soil health principles on sizable acreage. From growing his own seed, to future equipment trials, you might get some wild ideas for your own operations.

Monte Bottens has deep roots in agriculture. Raised as a fifth-generation, northwestern Illinois farmer, Monte is a business owner, entrepreneur and thought leader. Monte began his farming career with two bred sows given to him by his grandmother. Thanks to great guidance from his dad and equipment-sharing startup assistance, today he’s the owner of Bottens Family Farm (BFF). 

The farm utilizes the latest agricultural innovations in precision farming technology and crop management systems while putting into practice advanced regenerative ag principles. BFF produces a diversity of crops and grass-fed livestock. which are sold direct to consumers under the Grateful Graze label.

He is the Founder, President and CEO of Ag Solutions Network, Inc. (ASN) headquartered in Moline, Illinois, where he leads the development and distribution of the POWER2GRO crop production system. ASN utilizes the latest technological advancements and highest-quality ingredients to enable farmers to build soil health and soil wealth. Monte is also the host of ASN’s podcast, AgEmerge where featured guests discuss new ideas, grower insights, research and emerging technology. 

Monte is the Founder and Partner of California Ag Solutions, Inc. (CAS) in Madera, CA. The CAS team serves farmers of the Central Valley by helping them adopt reduced tillage techniques combined with improved water and nutrient efficiency using ASN’s POWER2GRO system on a wide variety of crops. 

Monte has a love for the agricultural diversity in California. He serves on the leadership team of Conservation Agriculture Systems Innovation (CASI) center that develops integrated reduced tillage and irrigation techniques in California and globally. His excitement for ag tech and continuous process improvement also led him to get involved with the UC Davis Entrepreneurship Program and the Sacramento Angels. He has a desire to teach others and make region specific practices applicable for all different crops, soil types, and climates throughout the US. He has presented at many conferences and universities sharing his passion for soil health and agriculture innovation.

Monte is a graduate of Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. He and his wife Robyn live in Sherrard, Illinois, close to family on the family farm.

AgEmerge Podcast 167 with Monte Bottens

Taylor Herren is a beach-loving Californian who traded Santa Barbara for Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to pursue her dream of becoming a farmer and agricultural entrepreneur. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. 

*** Show notes and Links ***

Subscribe to AgEmerge here: 
https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork

Hear from another entrepreneur, Taylor Henry sharing his farming story: https://youtu.be/rt2V_YnBfsI

Ag Solutions Network Socials:
https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast
https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm
https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork
https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO
https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/

Ag Solutions Network website: 
https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/

*** ***
More about Taylor Herren: 
After 15 years working in regenerative agriculture—including roles with Green America, Kiss the Ground and Chico State —Taylor made the leap into farming last year. Her first crop year in 2025 marks a significant milestone as one of the few women entering large-scale row crop agriculture, farming 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and rice with a USDA crop loan while building a pasture livestock operation starting with 600 birds.

The transition from one of California's most beautiful coastal cities to the hot, swampy Mississippi Delta has been challenging but transformative, connecting her to both the land and her farming partner Adam Chappell. Taylor's mission goes beyond building a successful agricultural business—she's driven by those meaningful moments in nature where life abounds in the plants, birds, bugs, and the passionate farmers who tend the land. 

Currently at Soil & Climate Initiative, she leads the farm transition program and regenerative crop market development work, including the Delta Regen Rice project. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. 

Her ultimate goal: to become a successful "chicken baroness" while proving that regenerative agriculture can create profitable, resilient farming operations.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-herren-590196107/
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.herren.5
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlsfarmhard/

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren

We’re revisiting a timeless highlight from AgEmerge Podcast Episode 100 — our 3-hour masterclass, recorded in 2023, with soil health pioneer Gabe Brown.

In this standout segment, Gabe and Monte tackle the real hurdles of transitioning markets, succession planning, and farm profitability. You'll also hear why and how Gabe built a thriving ranch with zero reliance on government subsidies — proving true independence is possible when soil health comes first.

As many heard just last week, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins, alongside RFK Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz, announced a $700 million Regenerative Pilot Program under the Make America Healthy Again agenda. It’s the first time regenerative agriculture has ever received this level of dedicated national funding and quite a spotlight — not perfect, not equal to conventional subsidies, but a massive step forward.

These aren’t crutches — they’re bridges, helping more farmers follow Gabe’s proven path. Timeless wisdom now backed by timely momentum.

Enjoy this throwback clip from Episode 100 with the one and only Gabe Brown.

If you haven’t watched the full episode yet, be sure to go back and catch the complete context of Gabe’s journey. But if you’re looking for a powerful example of how to thoughtfully hand a farm off to family, click the Watch Now button below as podcast episode 177 stands on its own.
​
Watch the entire AgEmerge Episode 100​: https://youtu.be/nX9up_iG0Zc

Gabe is featured in two films: Kiss the Ground partnered with Big Picture Ranch on the 2020 film, Kiss the Ground, and the follow-up documentary, Common Ground, which continue to impact viewers worldwide. Both films are now available to stream globally on Prime Video!

​Watch Kiss the Ground​​: https://kisstheground.com/about/kiss-the-ground-film/
Watch Common Ground​: https://kisstheground.com/about/common-ground-film/

Follow Gabe's Work:     

Brown's Ranch website: https://brownsranch.us/
Understanding Ag website: https://understandingag.com/

*** Show notes and Links ***

Subscribe to AgEmerge here: 
https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork

Ready to hear from more soil health leaders? Watch here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-Hc8USB_JtEZZNPL7OlrW4gLBHe9poI&si=ev203Eoxs6Z5CoH5

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Gabe Brown is one of the pioneers of the current soil health movement which focuses on the regeneration of our resources. Along with his wife Shelly, and son Paul, Gabe owns and operates Brown's Ranch, a diversified 5,000 acre farm and ranch near Bismarck, North Dakota. The ranch consists of several thousand acres of native perennial rangeland along with perennial pastureland and cropland. Their ranch focuses on farming and ranching in nature's image.

The Browns holistically integrate their grazing and no-till cropping systems, which include a wide variety of cash crops, multi-species cover crops along with all natural grass finished beef and lamb. They also raise pastured laying hens, broilers and swine. This diversity and integration has regenerated the natural resources on the ranch without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and fungicides.

Gabe authored the book, “Dirt to Soil, One Family’s Journey Into Regenerative Agriculture.”

He is a partner, along with David Kleinschmidt, Shane New, Kathy Richburg, and Dr. Allen Williams, in Understanding Ag LLC. He is also an instructor for Soil Health Academy, which focuses on teaching others the power and importance of healthy functioning ecosystems.

Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge podcast? 
Email contactus@agsolutionsnetwork.com


AgEmerge Podcast 177 with Gabe Brown

Damian Mason brings his signature wit, straight talk, and decades of experience to remind us: agriculture isn't just about growing crops—it's about feeding people, building resilient systems, and securing the future. Monte Bottens sits down with Damian, an agricultural speaker, podcaster, and industry provocateur, for a no-holds-barred conversation about the real purpose and future of farming.

Takeaways
- Agriculture is a consumer business.
- Understanding consumer needs is crucial for agricultural success.
- Sustainable practices are becoming increasingly important in agriculture.
- Technology plays a vital role in modern farming.
- Market dynamics are constantly evolving in the agricultural sector.
- Farmers need to adapt to changing consumer demands.
- The importance of storytelling in marketing agricultural products.
- Regulations in agriculture are likely to increase.
- The role of innovation in addressing agricultural challenges.
- The need for a balanced approach between traditional and modern farming methods.

Timestamps:
0:00 - Welcome & Episode Intro – Monte Bottens introduces the show and why this conversation matters
1:45 - Introducing Damian Mason – Background as speaker, podcaster, provocateur, and ag industry voice
4:20 - Agriculture's Core Purpose: "Because Starvation Sucks" – Setting the foundation for why ag exists
8:10 - Agriculture as a Consumer Business – Why farmers must prioritize evolving consumer demands
14:35 - The Shift to Consumer-Driven Farming – How ignoring consumers risks irrelevance
21:50 - Sustainability: No Longer Optional – Why sustainable practices are now essential for survival
29:15 - Technology's Transformative Role in Modern Agriculture – Emerging tech tools and adoption
37:40 - Navigating Market Dynamics & Regulations – Challenges from changing markets and increasing rules
45:20 - The Power of Storytelling – Connecting producers directly with consumers effectively
52:05 - Balancing Tradition and Innovation – Merging time-tested wisdom with new approaches to feed the world
59:30 - Key Takeaways & Final Thoughts – Practical insights for growers, ag pros, and eaters

Why does agriculture matter? Because starvation sucks—and everything else flows from there. Damian dives deep into why agriculture is fundamentally a consumer business, how understanding (and adapting to) evolving consumer demands is now make-or-break for farmers and agribusiness, and why the industry can no longer ignore the growing calls for sustainability, transparency, and innovation.

Whether you're a grower, ag professional, policymaker, or simply someone who eats food, this episode challenges conventional thinking and offers practical insights on how agriculture must evolve to remain relevant, profitable, and truly sustainable.

If you care about food security, regenerative agriculture, emerging tech in farming, or the intersection of consumers and producers—this is a must-listen.
Subscribe to AgEmerge Podcast for bi-weekly episodes on soil health, regenerative practices, innovative technology, grower stories, and the future of agriculture. New episodes drop every other Tuesday.

Hosted by Monte Bottens
Produced by Ag Solutions Network & Power2Gro

#Agriculture #RegenerativeAg #SoilHealth #SustainableFarming #AgTech #Farming #FoodSecurity #DamianMason #AgEmergePodcast #agpodcast 

Watch more: https://www.youtube.com/@AgSolutionsNetwork
Listen on your favorite podcast platform: Search "AgEmerge Podcast"
What are your thoughts on agriculture as a consumer business? Drop a comment below!

AgEmerge Podcast 180 with Damian Mason

Unlock the future of farming with insights from one of America's leading agriculture champions. Aubrey Bettencourt, Chief of the NRCS, and Host Monte Bottens, talk through how innovative programs, voluntary practices, and market-driven solutions are transforming the ways farmers conserve resources, improve soil health, and remain resilient. 

Hear how the new, USDA outcomes-based regen pilot program is set to redefine the way we address resource concerns—making conservation efforts more practical, impactful, and sticky for farmers from coast to coast.

Chief Bettencourt reveals the bold strategy behind the NRCS's reinvigorated mission: keeping farmers on the land and demonstrating that soil health and water management are not just buzzwords but vital pathways to economic and environmental security. We break down how existing programs like EQIP and CSP are being harnessed in innovative ways to accelerate regenerative practices without adding burdens—ensuring voluntary, flexible, and locally driven adoption.

Aubrey shares her vision for a future where farmers are empowered, markets are aligned, and soil health becomes a shared goal—ultimately transforming agriculture into a resilient, sustainable engine for generations to come.

Click to learn more about NRCS and the Regen Pilot Program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhuHrYrPXfM
About NRCS​: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/

***About Our Guest: 
Aubrey J.D. Bettencourt serves as Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the primary private lands conservation agency at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). NRCS helps producers, soil and water conservation districts, and other partners protect and conserve natural resources on private working lands while supporting American agricultural productivity throughout the United States. NRCS employees in the field work side-by-side with producers in every State and territory. 

Aubrey is a prominent leader in agriculture, water, and sustainability, most recently serving as the Global Director of Government Relations and External Affairs for Netafim, an Orbia Company. Prior to serving at Netafim, Aubrey was the President and Chief Executive Officer for the Almond Alliance, the national trade association advocating for American almond growers and processors. 

Prior to joining the Alliance, Aubrey served as the Sustainability Director for Western United Dairies, specifically leading initiatives in groundwater management. During the first Trump Administration, Aubrey worked with both the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) and USDA. As a Deputy Assistant Secretary with the DOI, she oversaw water and science policy. 

Prior to serving at DOI, Aubrey was the State Executive Director of USDA’s Farm Service Agency in California where she directed the administration of farm commodity programs providing support, security, and emergency relief for producers throughout the state. 
Her work reflects her personal commitment to keep farmers farming through sound water policy, agricultural support, technology, and sustainable practices. This is supported by her family’s farming roots in California’s great Central Valley. 

Aubrey is a third-generation farmer at Bettencourt Farms in Kings County, California, alongside her father, mother, husband, daughter, and loyal farm dogs. Aubrey is an Eisenhower Agricultural Fellow and holds a degree in History from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California.

AgEmerge Podcast 181 with NRCS Chief Aubrey JD Bettencourt

Imagine autonomous equipment that transforms productivity, reduces costs, and addresses soil health like never before. In this episode, Dave Krog—founder of Salin 247— shows how farmers can replace massive, soil-compacting machinery with sleek, small-scale autonomous tools designed to work around the clock without a single operator. 

Dave walks us through his story from growing up on a farm in Iowa to pioneering autonomous planter prototypes in the fields. He reveals how his team is developing smart, electric implement frameworks that can seamlessly switch between planting, spraying, and other field tasks—cutting costs, lowering environmental impact, and solving labor shortages all at once.

Dave explains how small, self-propelled tools can outperform traditional large equipment in efficiency and soil health. With host Monte Bottens, Dave proves the economic advantages of dividing hardware costs and why autonomy is the key to farming practices like strip cropping and organic systems. 

Timestamps:
0:00:00 Introduction to Autonomous Farming
0:05:00 The Genesis of Salin247
0:07:00 Challenges in Autonomous Technology
0:10:00 Early challenges faced in developing autonomous farming equipment.
0:15:00 Discussion on the transition to electric and autonomous machinery.
0:20:00 How autonomous technology can reduce costs and improve soil health.
0:25:00 Dave's insights on the future of farming with autonomous technology.

About our Guest:
Dave Krog is an Iowa-based engineer and founder of Salin247, leading the charge with innovative autonomous and electric farm equipment designed to reduce soil impact and elevate productivity.

Key Takeaways:
- Dave emphasizes the importance of understanding one's 'why' in their work.
- The evolution of farm machinery has led to increased soil compaction issues.
- Krog's company aims to replace large equipment with smaller, autonomous machines.
- Electric machinery is a key focus for sustainable farming solutions.
- The journey of developing autonomous farming technology has been ongoing for several years.
- Labor availability is a significant challenge in modern agriculture.
- Krog's background in farming informs his approach to agricultural technology.
- The initial prototype was a four-row planter, which posed unique challenges.
- Collaboration with Iowa State University has been crucial for Krog's innovations.
- Continuous education and adaptation are essential in the field of ag tech.

AgEmerge Podcast 182 with Dave Krog

Rockwell City native James Hepp aspired to farm, but with no direct ties to land, that dream seemed out of reach. So how did he get to be farming thousands of acres and a Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioner? 

About Our Guest:
James Hepp aspired to farm, but with no direct ties to land, that dream seemed out of reach. Hepp attended Northwest Missouri State University, where he earned a degree in agricultural business and started his career as a crop insurance adjuster after graduation.

 In 2019, the opportunity to work with a high school friend’s father, who was nearing retirement, led to a crop-share arrangement and opened the door for Hepp to farm full time. At the same time, Hepp started up his own crop insurance agency. Hepp now manages about 1,400 acres of corn, soybeans, and small grains as a first-generation farmer. Hepp also runs an ag retail business selling lots of regenerative products he uses on his acres. With support from his landlord, Hepp incorporates a wide range of conservation and soil-health building practices on his acres, including cover crops, buffer strips, no-till, strip-till, split-applied nitrogen, variable rate seeding, and much more.

Hepp is passionate about showing others how to implement conservation practices that protect soil and water quality through field days held annually on his farm. He is also involved in the local fire department and is a past president of the Calhoun County Farm Bureau. In 2024, James earned the Iowa Farm Bureau Young Farmer Environmental Leadership Award.

Navigating Farm Transitions, Conservation, and Innovation with James Hepp
In this episode, James Hepp shares his inspiring journey from a non-traditional farming background to becoming a full-time, innovative no-till farmer. He discusses transitioning practices, cover crops, soil health, and water quality—offering practical advice for farmers looking to adapt and improve sustainably.

Timestamps
00:29 - Introduction to James Hepp's farming story and background
05:44 - Growth of farm acreage and shift to no-till and regenerative practices
06:35 - Balancing family life and farming full-time with young children
07:05 - Diversification: cover crops, regenerative products, and livestock
08:14 - The challenge of farm succession and transition for older farmers
11:55 - Foundations of risk management: having legal agreements in writing
12:24 - Financial and land management strategies with landowners
13:07 - The benefits of innovative lease agreements and crop share options
16:22 - The mindset of free-thinking farmers and stepping outside of traditional practices
17:25 - Risk mitigation: equipment setup, safety, and exit strategies
22:31 - The advantages of simulated rent and crop sharing models
30:02 - Fertilizer timing, fertilizer reduction, and nutrient placement strategies
34:15 - Cover crop choices: triticale, rye, camelina, and their benefits
36:11 - The economics of strip tillage and equipment investment
38:48 - Practical tips for planting soybeans no-till in different row widths
43:18 - Managing cover crop seeding with drone technology and timing considerations
44:36 - Growing seed oats and low-input, high-return cover crops
54:20 - Water quality challenges, policy, and personal responsibility in Iowa
55:48 - The need for a systems approach, collaboration, and conservation policies
65:21 - Final thoughts: encouragement for farmers to innovate and lead

Resources & Links
Rockwell City, Iowa (local context)
Des Moines Water Works
Soil health research by Richard Mulvaney
Crop insurance programs
Cover crop seed providers
No-till conference insights
Crop and soil testing services
Regenerative ag products: Spray Tech
Iowa Farm Bureau Roots Program
Water quality policy initiatives in Iowa

Connect with James Hepp
LinkedIn
Twitter
Rockwell City farm website

AgEmerge Podcast 183 with James Hepp

Many farmers assume glyphosate is a reliable tool for weed control with minimal downsides, but Dr. Michael McNeill shows how this herbicide quietly disrupts the very foundation of productive farming—from soil biology to crop health and long-term field resilience.

In this eye-opening episode, Dr. McNeill explains the hidden journey of glyphosate through the farm system: how it lingers in manure from treated feed, carries over to contaminate even organic fields, and boosts pathogenic fungi and other disease pressures that hit yields hard. He shares research revealing glyphosate's antibiotic-like effects on soil microbes—shifting the microbial balance, weakening natural disease suppression, and making plants more vulnerable to outbreaks that cost farmers in inputs and lost production.

You'll hear about practical, farmer-tested ways to fight back, including using raw sauerkraut juice (loaded with beneficial fermentative microbes like Lactobacillus plantarum) to rapidly break down glyphosate residues in soil and feed crops—potentially slashing contamination by 80-90% in just months and freeing up bound nutrients for better plant uptake.

The discussion dives deep into proven regenerative strategies to reclaim fields: strategic cover crops, targeted microbial inoculants, balanced soil nutrition, and other biological practices that naturally crowd out weeds, curb pests and diseases, and rebuild robust soil structure—without leaning on chemicals that create dependency and hidden costs over time.

This episode lays bare how over-reliance on glyphosate often leads to nutrient lockups, escalating disease pressure, and rising input needs that eat into profits. But it also delivers real hope: a path to more resilient crops, healthier soils, lower long-term costs, and stronger farm sustainability.

Ideal for row-crop farmers, livestock producers, agronomists, and anyone managing land who wants to cut through the noise and explore science-backed ways to reduce chemical dependency while boosting productivity and soil vitality. If you're ready to rethink weed management and invest in farming biologically, this conversation is essential listening.

Read the journal article here: https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/hortsci/59/11/article-p1618.xml

About Dr. Michael McNeill:
Over the past four decades, Dr. McNeill's focus as an agronomist has been in teaching the agricultural community an understanding of soil and plant nutrition, emphasizing its’ importance for animal and human health. His emphasis has been placed on developing farming systems that promote soil and plant health, as well as, conducting on farm research to develop efficient bio-remediation of soil and water contaminated with farm chemicals and fertilizer nutrients. Also, a major focus of his has been to teach farmers methods to evaluate soil health by measuring soil microbial life, water infiltration rates, soil density, soil compaction, soil fertility levels and how to develop corrective measures if problems are discovered.

Positions, Scientific Appointments
1983 – Present President of Ag Advisory, Ltd. (an agricultural consulting company)
1971 – 1983 Research Scientist and Manager of a regional corn breeding station located in Algona,
Iowa.
1969 – 1971 U.S. Army research pathologist, study of soybean and corn disease epiphytology.
1964 – 1969 Iowa State University, research associate.

Contributions to Science: Published papers in the following:
Crop Science, Horticulture Science, Egyptian Journal of Genetics, Plant Disease Reporter, Journal of
Genetics, Journal of Economic Entomology, Agronomy Journal, Iowa State University Extension
Service Bulletins

Popular Press articles: Farm Journal, Successful Farming, Farm Industry News, Iowa Farmer Today, Soybean Digest, Furrow

AgEmerge Podcast 184 with Dr. Michael McNeill | The Saga of Soggy Sauerkraut

Discover how Ty Brown, founder and owner of Drago Indiana, uses innovative practices like cover crop breeding, drone technology, and water quality management to enhance sustainability, crop yields, and farm productivity. Hold on tight—this isn’t just about incremental improvements; it’s about transforming your entire farming operation for the better, one innovative step at a time. 

Monte and Ty break down the crucial role of modern plant breeding, highlighting how genetic markers for traits like seed shatter resistance and hard seed are revolutionizing cover crop reliability. Plus, get insights into how water quality, via reverse osmosis systems, is dramatically enhancing pesticide chemistry effectiveness and crop health—potentially cutting herbicide and fungicide costs by up to 40%. Understand the practicalities of integrating drone technology for precision spraying, and why selecting the right machinery is vital for large-scale applications.

In this episode:
- The evolution of cover crop breeding and its role in sustainable farming
- How genetic selection is improving hairy vetch and cereal rye traits
- The impact of water quality on foliar applications and herbicide effectiveness
- Using drones and aircraft for efficient crop spraying and farm management
- The benefits of diversifying cover crop species, including legumes and ancient grains
- The importance of farm-research collaboration and long-term development strategies
- Strategies for managing weed suppression, disease risks, and crop rotation complexities
- Technological tools for nitrogen estimation and nutrient cycling optimization
- The role of peer groups and continuous education in farm success

About the Guest:
About the Guest:
Ty Brown is a 1992 graduate of Rossville High School and a 1996 graduate of Purdue University where he holds a B.S. in Agronomy. While at Purdue he was named the top student in Agronomy 3 of 4 years, and was part of the Purdue Soils Judging Team and Agronomy Club all 4 years. After graduation he returned to the farm as the 6th generation to do so. He married his college sweetheart, Sacha, whom he met in college in 1997. Sacha and he immediately became actively involved in the community. Ty and Sacha both served on Purdue Club of Clinton County, were 4-H leaders, served a 2.5 year term on the Farm Bureau State Young Farmer Committee and Ty took State level 4-H responsibilities, served on the soil and water board, as well as numerous other advisory roles.

He started Drago Indiana in 2007 because he wanted to make available to farmers what we felt was a better option for a corn header. In 2013 he added Horsch and 2017 he added Honey Bee and all for the same reasons; they just simply offered a better product than what the major OEM’s were offering.

Timestamps:
(00:00) – Introduction: Unveiling farm innovations with industry leaders
(03:48) – Equipment and drone technology transforming crop management
(05:01) – Precision foliar nitrogen application and drone night-time spraying
(07:20) – Compatibility of drones with John Deere Operations Center
(08:35) – Breeding efforts in hairy vetch and cereal rye for nitrogen and weed control
(12:10) – The story behind the evolution of the equipment dealership
(15:45) – The innovative service model with aerial farm management
(18:02) – Water quality’s impact on fungicide and herbicide efficiency
(22:05) – Exploring rye's adaptability and seed diversity based on genetics
(25:58) – Nitrogen fixation potential and selecting cover crop varieties
(33:44) – Reducing seed shattering and seed cost through breeding
(41:40) – Developing cereal rye varieties tailored for cover cropping purposes
(58:57) – Relay cropping and interspecies plantings for diverse farming systems
(60:45) – The importance of selecting varieties suited to harsh environments
(61:23) – Upcoming cover crop varieties from the Cover Crop Breeding Network
(62:15) – Long-term research and the importance of perseverance in breeding

AgEmerge Podcast 185 with Ty Brown | Incremental Improvements Transform Farm Operations

Lisa Kissing Kucek shares her expertise on developing sustainable, high-performing cover crop varieties like hairy vetch, cereal rye, and other legumes, transforming agricultural systems for long-term soil health and productivity.

Lisa and Monte discuss the innovative world of cover crop breeding, biological nitrogen fixation, and the unique challenges and opportunities in microbial and plant genetics. This episode highlights the groundbreaking efforts in seed domestication, trait selection, and sustainable crop management, offering actionable insights for farmers, researchers, and agribusinesses looking to innovate in cover cropping and rotational systems. Stay tuned for upcoming variety releases and continued progress in crop genetics!

Timestamp Highlights:
0:00:00 - Cover crop innovations in almond orchards and Midwest grazing opportunities
0:04:33 - Dr. Kissing Kucek's background in soil conservation and her shift to plant breeding
0:05:49 - The significance of variety differences in cover crops: biomass, nitrogen fixation, weed suppression
0:08:35 - Developing nitrogen-fixing legumes like hairy vetch amidst rising fertilizer costs
0:10:28 - Harry Vetch: a star in biological nitrogen fixation with high biomass and winter survival
0:12:23 - Challenges in domestication: reducing seed shattering and seed dormancy in hairy vetch
0:14:48 - Addressing toxicity concerns in vetch and balancing its role as livestock feed
0:16:18 - Effects of frost, freeze-thaw cycles, and environment on overwintering success of legumes
0:18:06 - Differentiating true hairy vetch from similar species for improved breeding outcomes
0 ;20:01 - The impact of variety origin and seed source on winter survival and adaptability
0:25:52 - Biomass and nitrogen response correlations in breeding programs
0:28:00 - Tools for estimating nitrogen contribution from cover crops
0:31:46 - Advances in shatter resistance and seed cost reduction in vetch breeding
0:36:53 - The role of genetic diversity and selection in rye and vetch adaptation over time
0:44:35 - Diversifying rye with different flowering times for forage, cover cropping, and allelopathic traits
0:51:33 - How seed mixing and diversity within seed bags drive adaptability of rye and vetch
0:55:10 - The unique breeding strategies required for interspecific hybrids like triticale
0:58:38 - Relay cropping and intercropping legumes with cereals for organic systems
0:60:45 - Upcoming cover crop variety releases by the Cover Crop Breeding Network (CCB)
0:62:15 - The long-term vision of plant breeders and the importance of perseverance in genetic improvement

Resources & Links:
Cover Crop Breeding Network (CCB): https://www.covercropbreeding.com/
Nitrogen Estimator Tool: https://covercrop-ncalc.org
North Carolina State University Allelopathy Screening: https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/csc2.70275
Hairy Vetch Research: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339657710_Pod_Dehiscence_in_Hairy_Vetch_Vicia_villosa_Roth


About our Guest:
Lisa Kissing Kucek is a Research Geneticist with the United States Department of Agriculture Dairy Forage Research Center in Madison, Wisconsin. As part of the Cover Crop Breeding Network, Lisa improves cover crops, including cereal rye, hairy vetch, winter pea, and crimson clover. She worked alongside farmers, bakers, and chefs to develop wheat varieties for organic and local food systems during her doctoral research at Cornell University.

AgEmerge Podcast 186 with Dr Lisa Kissing Kucek

Most farmers abandon their soil health innovations at the first sign of trouble — but Matt Griggs chose perseverance over resignation. After a near-fatal combine accident and years battling fragile, erodible soils, he’s proving that bold, strategic changes can turn disaster into success. 

Resources & Links:
Griggs Farms LLC - YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UC7NfwgKKPu2AlhfQyWqjkfg 
Griggs Farms LLC - Website: http://www.griggsfarmsllc.com/
Crop Budget Spreadsheets – Free resources for farm management: http://www.griggsfarmsllc.com/spreadsheets.html

More about this episode:
From surviving a life-threatening crash to revitalizing the soil pan beneath his fields, Matt shares how a mindset of resilience and innovation can transform even the most broken land. You'll discover how cover crops like annual ryegrass and radishes can dissolve the fragile soil pan, increase organic matter, and dramatically improve moisture retention — even in the driest conditions. 

We break down:
- The pioneering practices Matt employs to reshape his soil profile
- Using custom-designed hooded sprayers to implement strip till techniques for effective cover crop management
- The critical role of soil microbiology and carbon in building resilient, drought-proof farms
- How innovative crop choices, such as canola and the integration of legumes, open new market opportunities
- Real stories of recovery and hope amid record droughts, emphasizing the importance of persistence and continuous learning
Why does this matter? Every farm faces unique challenges—whether it’s soil degradation, water scarcity, or market volatility. Matt’s story offers a blueprint for pushing past obstacles, turning setbacks into stepping stones, and creating a future-proof operation grounded in soil health. His example highlights that the key to farming resilience isn’t just better yields—it’s a shift in mindset, management, and determination.

Perfect for farmers, ag professionals, or anyone looking to understand how soil health practices can restore land’s capacity to fight drought and erosion. If you're tired of doing the same old, expect better results by thinking differently, experimenting boldly, and never giving up.

Follow Matt at Grigg's Farms LLC on YouTube and all major social media platforms for real-time updates—whether it’s soil breakthroughs or crop budgets. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of a more sustainable, profitable farm.


AgEmerge Podcast 187 with Matt Griggs

Most conversations about sustainable agriculture focus on practices—what to plant, how to till, or cover crop secrets. But what if the future of healthy soils and resilient farms hinges on something deeper? Dr. Natalie Sturm, Dakota Lakes Research Farm’s new farm manager, reveals how long-term crop rotations—and specifically the power of crop residue—are shaping the next generation of regenerative farming.

Discover how Dakota Lakes is pioneering research that shows soils with consistent root biomass and high-residue crops outperform even the most diverse rotations at building organic matter and restoring soil function. Natalie shares behind-the-scenes insights from 30+ years of no-till management and her own scientific journey from suburban Chicago to the heart of South Dakota. She explains how farm-scale systems, like five-year perennial sequences and livestock integration, can drastically reduce soil erosion, combat salinity, and increase farm profitability without relying on the latest chemical fixes.

You'll learn about innovative strategies such as virtual fencing for livestock, energy independence through on-farm biodiesel, and the critical importance of research that cuts through the marketing noise of the “ag industrial complex.” Natalie delves into how long-term, systems-based research can serve as a blueprint for farms across the country—whether you're in the Midwest trying to restore saline soils or a California grower exploring perennial grasses.

Timestamps:
0:01:18 - The legacy of Dwayne Beck and the importance of long-term research
0:04:32 - Cropping systems diversity and crop management practices
0:06:25 - The role of crop rotation and residue in soil health
0:13:13 - Agroecology principles and ecological benefits in farming
0:16:21 - Livestock integration, virtual fencing, and animal management innovations
0:19:26 - Summer field days and farmer engagement
0:22:45 - Equipment innovations for no-till and residue management
0:39:01 - Residue management and its impact on soil health
0:47:36 - Education events and farm tours for farmers and researchers
0:49:46 - Innovations in energy independence and renewable energy on the farm
0:52:20 - Replicating Dakota Lakes’ model in other regions
0:54:18 - Building networks for collaborative research and adaptation
0:55:37 - Dr. Sturm’s visionary outlook for the next 20-40 years

About our Guest (credit: https://www.sdstate.edu/news/2026/03/sturm-returns-dakota-lakes-research-farm-next-farm-manager)

Dr. Natalie Sturm conducts agronomic field research at the Dakota Lakes Research Farm.
Sturm conducted research at the Dakota Lakes Research Fam as part of her master’s degree. She is now replacing her former mentor, Dwayne Beck, who retired after more than 35 years of service.
Sturm completed her bachelor’s degree in sustainable food and bioenergy systems at Montana State University, her master’s in plant science at South Dakota State University and her doctorate in soil science at Washington State University. In her first few months on the job, she plans on learning as much as possible about the farm’s daily operations and meeting the local farmers, scientists and stakeholders that support the Dakota Lakes mission.

The Dakota Lakes Research Farm is a unique partnership between the SDSU College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and the Dakota Lakes Corporation, a nonprofit, farmer-led organization that owns the farmland and provides input on how research performed on the farm can best impact farmers. The research is conducted by SDSU faculty and staff through South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station funding. Both entities are committed to conducting research that allows South Dakotans to make more informed decisions on their operations.

Annually held on the last Thursday in June, this year’s Dakota Lakes Research Farm Field Day is on June 25, beginning at 3 p.m. More info: https://dakotalakes.com/

AgEmerge Podcast 188 with Natalie Sturm

Jason Mauck's approach to relay cropping, alley cropping, and tight plant timing might just be the game-changer every farmer needs to think about.It’s not just about planting crops; it’s about planning the whole system—synchronizing crop timing with solar angles, plant growth stages, and biological triggers. 

And here’s the kicker: this isn’t just theory. Jason demonstrated how these principles have already pushed yields into the 80-90 bushels per acre range—something many traditional systems would consider a good year. The understanding of plant interactions, timing, and field layout can reshape the economics of your farm.If you’re tired of the same old, same old, or if you feel like your program is begging for a new approach, this is your nudge to rethink everything. 

The key is getting out of the “accept what is” mindset and starting to see your acres as a dynamic, living system that responds to careful nudges.For anyone willing to experiment, to learn, and to question the status quo — consider ways to integrate these ideas into your own farm. The future favors those brave enough to think differently.

See it all in person at the Farm Weird Event. June 27, on Jason's farm.
More Details and Registration: https://conference.eco-ag.com/farmweird?am_id=monte2150

Timestamps:
02:25 - Shifting focus to regenerative farming and early adopter mindset
04:37 - Family background and landscape business
10:37 - Adjusting row spacing, plant density, and resource efficiency for higher yields
12:35 - Managing weeds, weeds suppression strategies, and relay cropping benefits
15:11 - Emotional resilience and momentum after the passing of Jason’s father
18:52 - The difference between salespeople and solution providers
19:25 - Innovations in plant sequencing, planting timing, and resource layering
20:36 - Relay cropping as a response to manure management
30:10 - Adjusting plant populations, seeding densities, and spacing strategies
36:23 - Equipment considerations and planting technology innovations for narrow-row cropping
44:11 - Crop biochemistry, plant growth regulators, and maximizing photosynthesis
45:57 - Strategic shading in crop design
54:05 - Creative mechanical solutions for seed handling, row separation, and crop integrity
58:02 - Crop and residue management, cover crop seeding, and fertility strategies

AgEmerge Podcast 189 with Jason Mauck

Most farms struggle with dust, inefficiency, and labor shortages—but Tyler Niday of Bonsai Robotics reveals how AI-driven machinery is changing the game by transforming existing equipment into autonomous workhorses. 

Inspired by biology, Bonsai Robotics is making some of agriculture's toughest environments manageable. Tyler shares how autonomous orchard shakers are improving nut harvest efficiency by up to 40%, while converting shuttle trucks into multi-functional farm platforms can save growers hundreds of thousands of dollars in equipment costs.

Monte and Tyler explore the industry's evolution from retrofitting machines with autonomous capabilities to developing full-platform solutions, including Bonsai's Amiga series. These adaptable systems support precision spraying, harvesting, and crop scouting.

Before co-founding Bonsai Robotics, Tyler began in mechanical engineering and helped develop vision systems at Blue River Technology and gained hands-on learning at Orchard Machinery Corporation. 
If you've wondered what the future of practical farm automation really looks like, this episode offers a firsthand look at innovations in the field today.

Visit Bonsai Robotics: https://bonsairobotics.ai/
Watch episode: https://youtu.be/Cvs7v5FLSN0

Timestamps:
00:10 - Tyler’s background and journey into ag tech
02:23 - The role of AI and perception challenges in dust environments
07:48 - Vision-only AI vs LiDAR debate and dust interference
12:04 - Scalability of perception models across crops
12:58 - Training AI models on dusty environments and data fusion
16:16 - Focus on specialty crops as a starting point for autonomy
16:45 - Collaborations with OEMs like Floria and OMC
17:30 - Managing connectivity in remote farm locations
19:07 - Starlink and cellular solutions for remote operations
21:30 - The Amiga platform's different configurations and applications
25:44 - Strategic move into precision spraying and harvest-related automation
28:28 - Future autonomous applications for open-field crops
37:44 - Autonomous nut shaker and harvesting efficiency
41:46 - Future of crop variability mapping and individual plant management
47:13 - Returning value through data management and software ecosystems
49:21 - Industry collaboration, standards, and evolving equipment
52:25 - Closing remarks and future outlook

AgEmerge Podcast 190 Bonsai Robotics and Tyler Niday

Steve Groff continues to provide agricultural thought leadership. Sure, he's an author, speaker, farmer and recently claimed himself as a bird nerd. But one of Steve's hallmark accomplishments, is developing and promoting the tillage radish. 

Hailing from Holtwood, Pennsylvania, Steve's Cedar Meadow farm became Regenified certified in 2023. From initial conservation efforts, through integrating cover crop diversity, to projects like biochar and nutrient-dense crop testing, Steve shares the real-world impact of these practices on the Chesapeake Bay watershed, illustrating how strategic land management can clean polluted estuaries while increasing farm profitability. 

Monte and Steve discuss the importance of farmer education, public engagement, and bipartisan collaboration to promote sustainable agriculture that benefits us all. 

Plus, hear about his recent adventures in fiber crop innovation, including custom flax planters and processing opportunities that could revolutionize U.S. fiber industries and reduce reliance on imports. Enjoy a great catch up conversation with Steve Groff by clicking below.

Steve's Website​​: https://www.stevegroff.com/
Regenified and Cedar Meadow Farm​​: https://regenified.com/farm/cedar-meadows/
Steve's Book: The Future-Proof Farm​: https://www.stevegroff.com/book

Timestamps:
02:55 - Market shifts: variety packaging and customer preferences
03:37 - Steve's personal farm story and history of no-till since 1982
07:32 - Regenerative agriculture: growing food for health and future generations
08:11 - Challenges of farming on steep, rocky terrain in Lancaster County
09:44 - Land costs, succession, and land transfer strategies
13:43 - Water quality concerns in Chesapeake Bay and conservation efforts
16:37 - Nutrient management, manure regulations, and local innovations
19:33 - Progress in Chesapeake Bay restoration and the role of cover crops
20:58 - Biochar research and its potential benefits and challenges
22:04 - Nutrient runoff issues in the Mississippi Delta and alternative management strategies
23:58 - The potential of Maryland’s cover crop payment programs
25:38 - Lessons from regulatory and incentive approaches across states
30:41 - The role of government, incentives, and public awareness in environmental stewardship
32:36 - The personal impact of water clean-up on community life and future opportunities
33:47 - Linking soil health to human health: the food as medicine movement
36:17 - Innovative tools like cover crop roller development and their origin stories
43:39 - Extending cover crop benefits to pumpkins and specialty crops
45:23 - Moving toward nutrient-dense foods and the role of regenerative practices for health
47:26 - Opportunities in fiber crops: hemp, flax, and market potential
50:17 - The influence of high-profile advocacy and policy in advancing regenerative agriculture
54:45 - The importance of diverse viewpoints and bipartisan support for farm sustainability
56:06 - Linking soil health improvements to health costs and chronic disease prevention
58:28 - Hemp industry challenges: regulation, infrastructure, and market development
61:04 - Innovations in fiber crop equipment, including planting systems for hemp and flax
64:08 - Long-term biochar research plans and soil health impacts
65:22 - Future directions: high tunnels, specialty crops, and nutrient density testing
67:22 - Upcoming events and Steve’s focus on hands-on farm work and family
70:25 - The divine story behind the farm’s historical crops and future crop opportunities
72:43 - Final thoughts: observing nature, curiosity, and the farmer’s role in ecosystem health

AgEmerge Podcast 191 with Steve Groff

A tech entrepreneur turned regenerative farmer is rewriting the future of agriculture. Chris Baggott, a serial entrepreneur behind Salesforce's pioneering marketing platform and innovative food ventures, shares how his journey from Silicon Valley to the farm is helping producers thrive beyond commodity markets.

**Watch the full episode:** https://youtu.be/wxffwwsEsOg

Chris explains how his technology background taught him the power of democratized marketing and why farmers should embrace digital tools to build direct relationships with consumers. Learn how technology, AI, and transparency help decommodify food, optimize operations, and allow small farms to compete with larger companies through authentic storytelling and local connections.

Monte and Chris discuss the growing demand for local, nutrient-dense food, the challenges of regenerative agriculture, and practical ways to improve profitability through branding, consumer education, and direct-to-consumer sales. They also explore soil health, managed grazing, supply chains, and the future of community-based food systems.

Whether you're a farmer, entrepreneur, or food advocate, this episode offers practical insights into building resilient, profitable businesses rooted in healthy soil and trusted relationships.

**Main Topics Covered:**

* Chris Baggott's transition from Silicon Valley entrepreneur to regenerative farmer
* Technology, AI, and digital marketing for agriculture
* Direct-to-consumer food systems and local markets
* Soil health, managed grazing, and regenerative farming
* Scaling profitable, transparent food businesses

**About Our Guest**

Chris Baggott is the founder of Tyner Pond Farm in central Indiana, a regenerative farm dedicated to restoring healthy soil and producing better food through pasture-based livestock management.

Prior to farming, Chris built successful software companies, including ExactTarget, which was acquired by Salesforce. Today he combines that entrepreneurial experience with regenerative agriculture, raising 100% grass-fed and grass-finished beef, pasture-raised chicken, and eggs using managed grazing and rotational systems.

Chris is also developing FarmersMarket.com, a national marketplace connecting consumers directly with identifiable farmers instead of anonymous commodity products. His mission is to strengthen local food systems by improving transparency, trust, and direct relationships between producers and consumers.

**Timestamps:**
00:00 - Introduction & episode overview
01:11 - Chris Baggott's tech background and ExactTarget
04:13 - Transition to regenerative farming
05:29 - Democratizing marketing through technology
09:06 - Salesforce acquisition and small business marketing
10:53 - Direct-to-consumer food systems
17:26 - Why regenerative agriculture matters
20:12 - Food marketing and digital platforms
25:02 - Grazing management and soil health
30:41 - Partnerships and scaling farm operations
45:50 - Marketing challenges and opportunities
55:58 - Storytelling and consumer trust
66:05 - FarmersMarket.com and connecting with Chris

AgEmerge Podcast 192 with Chris Baggott

The future of ag tech is here—aimable, precise, and radically more efficient. Gabe Sibley and Curtis Garner reveal how they’ve built Verdant Robotics platform to target weeds and pests with pinpoint accuracy but also transforms how farms scout, analyze, and act on data in real time.

Discover how Verdant Robotics is pioneering an autonomous spraying system that’s faster, smarter, and more sustainable than traditional methods. Gabe shares how deep learning, high-resolution imaging, and patented aiming technology are redefining crop management—dissecting individual plants, detecting diseases earlier, and reducing input use dramatically. 

Curtis chimes in with stories from scaling operations across North America and beyond, explaining how agility, innovation, and a focus on real farmer pain points propel their mission.

We break down the critical role of digitization in unlocking exactly the right amount of herbicide or fertilizer at the right spot, the challenges of supply chain constraints—and more importantly—how the industry can leap forward despite long timelines and slow tech adoption. 

Why wait years to see ROI? This tech promises a rapid payback—sometimes in mere months—that could revolutionize productivity for growers of all sizes and crop types, especially those underserved by existing solutions.

If you’re a forward-thinking farmer or agtech enthusiast tired of incremental improvements that don’t deliver, this is your shot at catching the next big wave. Learn how sophisticated AI, machine vision, and precision application tools are converging into a new era of farming—one where autonomous, versatile robots adapt seamlessly to complex crop environments, saving money, inputs, and water, while boosting yields.

Whether you’re in leafy greens, orchards, or row crops, these insights are essential to understanding how automation will shape the future landscape of agriculture. Are you ready to ditch the old and embrace the cutting edge of farm technology? This episode is your front-row seat to the innovations that are not years away—they’re happening right now.

Gabe Sibley is CEO and Co-Founder of Verdant Robotics, known for cutting-edge autonomous sprayers that combine high-resolution vision with precise chemical delivery. Curtis Garner, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, is a seasoned farm operations expert, brings practical insights on deploying automation at scale across diverse crops and regions.

Timestamps
07:02 - How farmer conversations reveal unmet needs and unspoken problems
09:59 - Case study: Using AI to identify individual apples and improve profitability
11:17 - Digitizing crops at scale for better decision-making and control loops
14:02 - Unique aimable fluid delivery technology for targeted chemical application
18:11 - 3D space navigation, camera systems, and occlusion strategies in orchards
19:01 - Achieving millimeter-level accuracy and scaling to various crop sizes
20:46 - Expanding from leafy greens to grass seed and international markets
26:09 - Challenges of scaling tech amidst supply chain shortages and global chip scarcity
29:30 - The cultural challenges of integrating Silicon Valley innovation, manufacturing, and farming
36:52 - ROI and operational efficiency of their autonomous spraying units
37:45 - The hardware specs, form factor, and integration options with existing machinery
39:11 - Opportunities in disease detection, multi-spectral imaging, and remote sensing
44:49 - Autonomous operation advancements, teaming with VEX and other partners
58:13 - Final thoughts: the future of agricultural automation and innovations

AgEmerge Podcast 193 with Verdant Robotics

Unlock the future of sustainable farming with Dr. Jessica Chiartas, currently serving at the University of British Columbia. Her research focuses on the long-term impacts of agriculture on soil carbon and overall soil health with a unique focus on carbon at depth. Jessica shares her inspiring journey from corporate pharma sales to pioneering soil health measurement frameworks that could transform global agriculture. Discover how her RegenScore provides a practical, evidence-based way for farmers, brands, and consumers to quantify and promote regenerative practices—beyond mere labels and checkboxes.

In this episode, Jessica breaks down the complexities of regenerative agriculture, from soil’s vital role in climate resilience, water quality, and human health, to the challenges of creating scalable scoring systems that respect local context. You'll uncover the innovative process behind developing region-specific metrics, the importance of community and farmer-centric approaches, and how technology and storytelling are shaping a new era of transparency and impact. We dive into the intersection of soil science, market mechanisms, and consumer choices, revealing why understanding soil health is essential not just for farmers but for everyone invested in a sustainable future.

Jessica shares why regenerative farming isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution but a nuanced, evolving journey—one that requires collaboration across sectors and disciplines. She emphasizes the psychological and social shifts needed to inspire widespread adoption, highlighting the power of education, trust, and tangible health outcomes. Learn how soil health ties directly to climate resilience, biodiversity, and human wellbeing—and why immediate action is critical to avoid slow, irreversible damage.

This episode is perfect for farmers needing practical pathways to adopt regenerative practices, investors and brands seeking credible impact metrics, educators passionate about soil awareness, and anyone curious about how farming can heal the planet while supporting healthy communities. Jessica’s optimistic outlook reminds us that rapid, positive change is possible—if we leverage science, technology, and storytelling to fuel systemic shifts. Tune in to feel empowered to connect with the ground beneath your feet and imagine a healthier, more resilient future for all.

Resources
Regen Score Framework - https://regenscore.org
Soil Life Project - https://soil.life
Jessica Chartis - UBC Profile - https://ubc.ca/jessica-chartis

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Jessica's background
01:59 Jessica's journey from pharma to soil science
03:52 Soil health and its impact on human well-being
06:46 Development of Regen Score and its principles
10:14 Regional specificity and scaling of Regen Score
14:57 Challenges and opportunities in regenerative measurement
19:45 Market drivers and consumer engagement
25:07 Food as medicine and health impacts
30:14 Soil health, biodiversity, and environmental benefits
34:51 Policy, economics, and market pull for regenerative farming
40:08 Future outlook and hope for regenerative agriculture
45:00 Practical steps for farmers to adopt regenerative practices
49:58 Jessica's vision for education and soil awareness
55:04 Closing thoughts and optimism for the future

AgEmerge Podcast 194 with Dr. Jessica Chiartas and REGENSCORE

Soil health, regenerative practices, and emerging technology — The AgEmerge Podcast. Join our host, Monte Bottens, as he engages with guests from diverse agriculture interests to discuss experiences, practices and scalable applications for any operation. Tune in to new episodes every other Tuesday to regenerate your ideas, soil, crops, livestock and livelihood.





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