

Farm4Profit Podcast
David Whitaker, Corey Hillebo, Tanner Winterhof
Our mission is to provide farms and operators an independent and unbiased outlet for information related to increasing the profitability of their farming operation. We will be providing farms and operators of all sizes and experience levels access to the latest trends, projections, and the tools necessary to increase farming profitability. We will take each episode to deliver latest news, what's working for active farms, and a topic of focus each episode. Remember, if you aren't farming for profit you won't be farming for long.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 10, 2025 • 46min
Breaking the Fragipan Barrier: New Solutions for Higher Yields
In this episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast, we dive into fragipan soils—a major challenge impacting farmers across Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee—with expert guests Dr. Murdock and Billy from AgX. Fragipan soils create a dense, compacted layer beneath the topsoil, restricting root growth and limiting access to nutrients and water, leading to significant yield loss.We discuss the groundbreaking research from the University of Kentucky, where a 10-year study has explored using annual rye grass to break through the fragipan layer. Dr. Murdock and Billy explain how organic acids from rye roots help improve water infiltration, release trapped nutrients, and enhance crop yields—leading to real-world results of 160-220 bushel yields and even 300 bushels in NCGA trials.Tune in to learn about innovative soil management strategies, products like Upward and Octane, and how farmers can start implementing these solutions to overcome fragipan challenges and boost profitability!www.agxplore.com
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 11min
Ryan Kelly aka WITitan2 - Why Farming History Matters
In this special episode recorded live at the North American Conservation & Drainage Expo, the Farm4Profit team sits down with Ryan Kelly, better known as WITitan2 on YouTube & TikTok. Ryan has built a dedicated following by sharing his passion for farming history, classic equipment, and the stories of the past generations who built agriculture into what it is today.We dive into how Ryan’s YouTube channel became a hub for storytelling, preserving the legacy of farming, and why it’s crucial to document the history of agriculture before it’s lost. Ryan shares insights on how old equipment, vintage photos, and firsthand accounts can inspire future generations of farmers. We also discuss the importance of balancing conservation with modern drainage practices to sustain farmland for years to come.If you love farming nostalgia, tractor talk, and real stories from the past, this episode is for you!
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Feb 3, 2025 • 1h 9min
Building Resilience in Farming and Life - A Journey Through Tough Challenges
We welcome Nina Sossamon Pogue, a former USA gymnast, Emmy award-winning news anchor, and bestselling author. The conversation centers around the theme of resilience, exploring how individuals can adapt to life's challenges and setbacks. Nina shares her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding resilience as the ability to adapt and grow stronger in the face of adversity. She introduces her framework for resilience, known as THIS, which includes timeline thinking, identifying support systems, isolating challenges, and reframing self-talk. The discussion also touches on the significance of community support and the need to prepare for resilience as a muscle that strengthens over time. The episode concludes with insights on how to help the next generation develop resilience in their own lives. In this conversation, Nina Sossamon-Pogue shares her insights on parenting, resilience, and navigating life's challenges. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to fail in order to build resilience and discusses her own journey through difficult times, including a career transition and personal struggles. Nina highlights the significance of mental resilience, the need for support systems, and practical strategies for overcoming adversity. She encourages listeners to embrace their journeys and recognize that tough times are part of life, but they can emerge stronger from them.
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jan 30, 2025 • 1h 19min
Grant Hilbert - From Farming in a Game to Farming in Real Life
Recently, Grant took his love for farming to the next level by purchasing real farmland and documenting his journey on YouTube. He shares the triumphs and challenges of transitioning from virtual fields to actual crops, offering a unique perspective on the connection between gaming, content creation, and real-world agriculture.In this episode, Grant takes us behind the scenes of developing American Farmer—from inspiration to execution—and discusses the creative decisions that made the game a hit among players who love farming and simulation games. We also dive into his journey of buying farmland, managing agricultural operations, and using his YouTube platform to share his adventures and inspire others.Whether you're a gamer, a farmer, or an entrepreneur looking for inspiration, this conversation with Grant Hilbert offers a blend of innovation, authenticity, and passion for agriculture. Tune in to discover how Grant is bridging the gap between digital and real-life farming while building a community around shared agricultural interests.
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jan 27, 2025 • 51min
Direct to Consumer: Amy Hay - Former Engineer Driving The Future of Beef Sales
In this conversation, Amy discusses the intricacies of direct beef sales, emphasizing the importance of pricing structures, customer education, and storytelling in agriculture. She shares her journey from traditional ranching to establishing a successful online platform for selling beef directly to consumers. The discussion highlights the challenges farmers face in finding customers and pricing their products, as well as the strategies to overcome these hurdles through effective marketing and social media engagement.takeawaysAmy is a first-generation rancher with a diverse background.She transitioned from engineering to ranching to pursue a dream.The ranch focuses on direct-to-consumer beef sales.Understanding the economics of ranching is crucial for success.Social media can be a powerful tool for marketing beef sales.Regenerative agriculture practices are employed on the ranch.Amy emphasizes the importance of knowing your numbers.The farm-to-fork movement is growing, with increasing demand for direct sales.Pricing strategies are essential for profitability in ranching.Farmers should view their operations as standalone entities. Understanding pricing structures is crucial for profitability.Empowering farmers through education can lead to success.Storytelling can make ranching more relatable to consumers.Building an online presence is essential for direct sales.Customer demographics play a significant role in sales strategy.Educating consumers about pricing can enhance perceived value.Finding customers is a common challenge for farmers.Social media can be a powerful tool for engagement.Appealing to consumer interests can drive sales.Free resources can help farmers get started with direct sales.02:11 Meet Amy: A First-Generation Rancher05:39 Transitioning from Engineering to Ranching10:26 Direct to Consumer Beef Sales18:24 Understanding the Economics of Ranching20:49 Leveraging Social Media for Sales23:37 Understanding Pricing Structures in Direct Beef Sales24:34 Empowering Farmers Through Education25:45 The Value of Storytelling in Agriculture27:25 The Journey to Selling Beef Direct30:39 Building a Successful Online Presence32:41 Navigating Customer Demographics and Preferences35:55 Educating Consumers on Pricing and Value37:58 Overcoming Challenges in Direct Sales42:50 Getting Started with Direct Beef Sales48:52 Connecting with Customers on Social Media
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jan 23, 2025 • 1h 14min
Some More Wine! Catching up with Gavin and Grayce
To start off Tanner, Corey, and David welcome wine expert Duff Bevill to discuss the nuances of wine tasting, particularly focusing on Sauvignon Blanc. Duff shares his extensive experience in the wine industry, detailing the differences between two Sauvignon Blancs from different regions in Sonoma County. The discussion covers wine styles, tasting notes, and the influence of terroir on flavor, while also touching on personal wine preferences and the availability of the wines discussed. 15 minutes in:Gavin Spoor and Farmer Grayce, two influential farmers making waves on social media. Gavin shares his journey into agriculture, his passion for popcorn farming, and how he creatively connects with his audience online. Farmer Grayce discusses her experiences as a young female farmer, tackling misconceptions about women in agriculture and fostering a supportive digital community. Together, they explore the power of storytelling in farming, the challenges and rewards of building an online presence, and the impact social media has on connecting farmers and consumers. Listeners will gain valuable tips on content creation, authenticity, and balancing farm life with digital engagement.
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 13min
Trying New Farming Practices with Your Risk Mitigated - Billy Rose AcreShield Guarantee
In this insightful episode, Billy Rose, founder of AcreShield, explores how innovation and risk management are reshaping modern farming. He breaks down how companies encourage retailers and growers to adopt new agricultural products using verified data, risk assessments, and real-world success stories. Billy highlights key traits for successful entrepreneurs and farmers, including energy, confidence, and tenacity. He dives into how AcreShield’s AI-powered Yield Optimizer helps farmers improve yields and minimize risk with unbiased seed testing and performance-backed programs. Billy also explains microcaptive insurance, farmland valuation tools, and the importance of data transparency in farming. Learn how AcreShield is empowering farmers with confidence and financial security.For more information, visit AcreShield.com or OptimalAgSolutions.com.
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jan 16, 2025 • 50min
Damian Mason - Agriculture Unfiltered
Damian Mason is a leading expert in agricultural business strategy, known for blending humor and hard-hitting insights to address the challenges and opportunities facing modern agriculture. Raised on a dairy farm in Indiana, Damian has built a diverse career that spans from agribusiness consulting to professional speaking, podcasting, and authoring several books—including Food Fear and Do Business Better. His podcast, The Business of Agriculture, is a go-to resource for professionals seeking in-depth discussions on market trends, consumer behavior, and business solutions within the ag industry.Beyond his speaking and writing, Damian’s unique background includes a degree in agricultural economics from Purdue University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. He offers real-world advice on navigating industry disruptions, government policies, sustainability, and market volatility—all with a direct, no-nonsense approach.In this episode, Damian shares his views on how farmers can position themselves for long-term success, the importance of adapting to consumer demands, and why treating farming as a business—not just a lifestyle—is essential for future profitability. Tune in for an honest, entertaining, and insightful conversation that will leave you thinking differently about the business of agriculture!Learn more about Damian Mason at damianmason.com and check out The Business of Agriculture podcast for more ag industry insights.
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jan 13, 2025 • 1h 1min
Wind Energy and Ranching: Perspective from a Farm Transition Story
Today's show is brought to you by: https://www.croporganization.org/In this episode of the Farm for Profit podcast, Tanner interviews Pete Ferrell, a rancher with a rich family history in agriculture. They discuss the transition of ranch management to the next generation, the challenges of succession planning, and the adoption of holistic practices in ranching. Pete shares his journey into wind energy, the establishment of a wind farm on his ranch, and the importance of understanding lease and easement agreements. The conversation highlights the integration of technology in ranch management and the financial benefits of diversifying income sources through renewable energy. In this conversation, Pete Ferrell shares his experiences and insights regarding the development of wind farms on agricultural land. He discusses community perceptions, tax implications, lease agreements, long-term commitments, environmental impacts, and the sound and aesthetic considerations of wind energy. The conversation also highlights the economic benefits and resources available for landowners considering wind energy projects.takeawaysThe importance of effective succession planning in ranching.Lessons learned from a failed succession plan.Holistic practices can enhance ranch management.Embracing technology is crucial for modern ranching.Wind energy can provide additional income for ranchers.Long-term agreements with wind companies require careful consideration.Consulting can help others navigate wind energy development.Understanding lease and easement agreements is essential.Ranchers can maintain their operations while hosting wind farms.Financial planning is key to a successful transition in ranch management. Community concerns about wind farms often stem from misconceptions.Wind farms can provide significant tax revenue for local communities.Lease agreements for wind farms typically include multiple payment structures.Long-term agreements can lead to considerations for future turbine technology.Access roads from wind farms can benefit ranching operations.Environmental studies show that wildlife populations can recover post-construction.Wind farms can create noise that resembles natural sounds like rivers or surf.Landowners should be aware of the potential for visual impact from turbines.It's important to consult with experts when considering wind energy projects.Landowners have resources available to help them navigate wind energy agreements.01:02 Meet Pete Ferrell: A Ranching Legacy02:49 Transitioning Ranch Management to the Next Generation05:53 Lessons from a Failed Succession Plan09:02 Adopting Holistic Practices in Ranching12:02 Embracing Technology in Ranch Management15:11 Exploring Wind Energy Opportunities17:59 The Journey to Establishing a Wind Farm20:46 Navigating Long-Term Agreements with Wind Companies23:47 Concerns and Benefits of Wind Energy on Ranching27:06 Consulting on Wind Energy Development30:08 Understanding Lease and Easement Agreements31:52 Community Perspectives on Wind Farms34:04 Tax Implications and Economic Benefits35:55 Understanding Lease Agreements38:25 Long-Term Agreements and Future Considerations44:58 Debunking Myths and Addressing Concerns50:11 Environmental Impact and Wildlife56:21 Sound and Aesthetic Considerations01:00:28 Resources for Landowners
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 6, 2025 • 52min
Financial Tools for Farms : Bookkeeping with Ambrook
We welcome Eric Jasinski from Ambrook, a financial management platform designed specifically for farmers. We discuss the challenges farmers face in managing their finances, and how Ambrook aims to simplify bookkeeping and accounting for agricultural operations. The conversation covers the onboarding process, data security concerns, and the importance of understanding farm profitability. Eric shares insights on how Ambrook's features can help farmers track expenses, manage invoices, and ultimately improve their financial health. The episode concludes with a discussion on pricing and the value of trying out Ambrook's services.takeawaysAmbrook is designed specifically for the agricultural industry.Farmers often struggle with traditional bookkeeping methods.The onboarding process is crucial for user experience.Data security is a top priority for Ambrook.Field level profitability tracking is a key feature.Users can automate their bookkeeping processes.Ambrook offers a mobile app for convenience.The platform aims to make financial management enjoyable.Pricing is straightforward with two tiers available.Testing out the software is encouraged for potential users.Chapters03:06 Meet Eric Jasinski and Ambrook05:59 Eric's Unique Background in Agriculture09:07 Understanding Ambrook's Role in Agriculture12:00 Challenges of Traditional Accounting in Farming15:01 Why Switch to Ambrook?17:57 Onboarding Process and User Experience24:01 Mapping to Tax Schedules and CPA Interaction27:48 Understanding Field Level Profitability30:51 Banking Integration and Data Security Concerns34:24 The Importance of Data Privacy in Agriculture36:14 Creating Enjoyable Accounting Experiences42:11 Understanding Ambrook's Pricing Structure46:19 Incorporating Personal Expenses into Farm Accounting49:14 The Power of Knowledge in Farm Management51:17 Getting Started with Ambrook
Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


