At the Feed Store

In this episode, Erica from Feeders Grain sits down with a technical representative from Diamond V, an 85-year-old feed ingredient company out of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to break down what this product actually is, how it works, and why it's been a staple in livestock nutrition for decades. The guest clears up one of the biggest misconceptions right away: Diamond V is not a yeast — it's a postbiotic, produced through a controlled fermentation process that generates stable metabolites designed to support gut health and immunity from the inside out. From feedlot steers to cow-calf operations, this conversation digs into real-world applications and the research backing them up, including a peer-reviewed meta-analysis of 20 feedlot studies and immune challenge research tied to their newest product, NatureSafe. They also cover the topics every producer needs to hear: The difference between prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics and why it matters when choosing a product How gut health directly drives feed efficiency, gain, and profitability Why a sick animal that backs off feed can derail your entire performance margin The critical role of colostrum quality in calf survival and getting the next generation off on the right foot How Diamond V fits into every stage of a cow's production cycle, from calving through breeding season Why the data has to be convincing and robust before a producer can justify the cost, and how Diamond V's 150+ peer-reviewed studies back that up Whether you're running a feedlot, a cow-calf operation, or raising direct-to-consumer beef, this episode breaks down a practical, research-backed tool that supports animal health, reduces reliance on medication, and helps protect your bottom line. Diamond V - https://diamondv.com/

In this episode, Erica from Feeders Grain sits down with Mary Jo Irmen, author of Farming Without the Bank, to explore a powerful financial strategy that's changing how farmers manage money, debt, and succession planning. Mary Jo explains the Infinite Banking Concept—a system that uses dividend-paying whole life insurance as a financial tool to create your own "bank," giving you control over operating capital, investments, and long-term wealth. From funding cattle purchases and covering operating expenses to navigating estate planning and preserving generational farms, this conversation dives into real-world applications farmers are using today. They also tackle tough but critical topics like: Why traditional banking can limit farm growth How to reduce dependency on operating loans The role of life insurance in estate planning and generational wealth The harsh reality of "fair vs. equal" in farm succession How poor planning is causing farms to be lost—not lack of work ethic Whether you're just starting out or planning for the next generation, this episode highlights a practical tool that can help you take control of your finances and protect your legacy. Mary Jo's website: https://www.farmingwithoutthebank.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Shelby Cornelius, District Sales Manager for Vitalix, to talk about the nutrition program behind the iconic "blue tub" seen across ranches and rodeos nationwide. Shelby shares the story of how Vitalix grew from a single plant in Nebraska into a nationwide brand with five manufacturing locations — all while staying focused on doing one thing exceptionally well: producing high-quality livestock supplement tubs. We dive into how Vitalix tubs support producers through every stage of production, including: Weaning and receiving calves Supplementing protein during winter grazing and corn stalks Supporting cows through calving and breeding season Improving herd performance with targeted mineral and nutrition programs Shelby also explains what makes Vitalix tubs unique — including their use of technologies like Diamond V, Zinpro minerals, and NatureSafe, and how those ingredients help support immunity, reproduction, and overall herd health. We also cover practical questions producers often ask: How many cattle should share a tub? Why consumption rates vary in the first few weeks Why tub formulation changes by region and season The real cost-per-head-per-day of supplementation Plus, we discuss how these tubs aren't just for cattle — Vitalix also offers solutions for sheep, goats, and horses, helping producers simplify nutrition across their operation. If you've ever wondered what's really inside the blue tub — and how it can impact herd performance, conception rates, and profitability — this episode breaks it all down.

In this episode, Erica with Feeders Grain and Farm Supply visits Green's Welding in Appleton City, Missouri, to sit down with Chris and Karen and hear the story behind their family-owned ag manufacturing business. What started as a 10-year-old learning to weld through 4-H has grown into decades of innovation in cattle equipment — all built with farmers in mind. From repairing old creep feeders to designing durable bulk bins, bunks, creep feeders, and UTV feeders, Green's Welding has focused on one thing: making feeding cattle easier, safer, and more reliable. In this conversation, we cover: The history and growth of Green's Welding from a two-car garage to multiple buildings Why their bulk feed bins are built heavier and designed for better feed flow How real-world farm experience drives product design and improvements What sets their cattle bunks, creep feeders, and UTV feeders apart Common feeding mistakes and how to extend the life of your equipment Why family-owned manufacturing still matters in agriculture Chris shares how listening to customers — and thinking about what would make life easier for older farmers — has shaped every product they build. This episode is packed with practical insight for cattle producers, farmers, and anyone interested in ag equipment built to last. 🔧 Built by farmers. Tested on the farm. Designed for real life. 👉 Learn more or view available products at feedersgrain.com

In this episode, Erica Lantz of Feeders Grain & Farm Supply sits down with Kevin from Workweld to explore the story, craftsmanship, and quality behind one of the most trusted names in livestock equipment. Workweld began as a small farm repair shop in 1982 and has grown into a 40,000 sq. ft. U.S.-based manufacturing facility serving over 150 dealers across the United States. In this conversation, we cover how Workweld designs and builds heavy-duty, long-lasting equipment for real producers who demand reliability.  Topics covered in this episode include: The history and growth of Workweld manufacturing U.S.-sourced steel and material quality Creep feeders, bunks, hay feeders, and Handy Hoppers Custom-built livestock equipment for unique operations Bottomless silage bunks and easy-clean design Livestock shelters built to withstand extreme wind Why heavier gauge steel makes a real difference Standing behind products and dealer-first relationships Whether you're running cow-calf pairs, feedlot cattle, sheep, goats, hogs, or show livestock, this episode gives an inside look at why quality-built equipment matters and how Workweld supports producers long after the sale.  Available through Feeders Grain & Farm Supply  Questions about availability or sizing? Reach out — we're happy to help match the right equipment to your operation. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more producer-focused conversations, equipment insights, and ag industry stories.

At Feeders Grain and Farm Supply in Corning, Iowa, we pride ourselves on offering quality products that our customers can rely on — and one of the key suppliers helping us do just that is Northeast Pipe and Panel. We recently had the chance to sit down with Zach, their sales representative, and take a behind-the-scenes look at what sets this Hardington, Nebraska-based operation apart. From a Garage to a Regional Powerhouse Northeast Pipe and Panel's story is one of steady growth, hands-on craftsmanship, and Midwest work ethic. What began 15 years ago in a small garage has grown into a full-scale production facility that now serves 11 states across the country. The founder started out purchasing raw black steel pipe and welding together livestock panels. Over time, the operation expanded into a custom-built shop and a team dedicated to producing premium fencing and livestock equipment. Read more about it: https://feedersgrain.com #fencing #feedersgrain #farmsupply #farmequipment

Hi friends, Erica here with Feeders Grain & Farm Supply. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Sioux Steel Company and sit down with Beth and Duane for a tour and conversation about their family-owned business. As a dealer, it's always exciting for me to see where the products I sell come from—and let me tell you, Sioux Steel has a story worth sharing. A Legacy of Quality Since 1918 Sioux Steel's roots stretch back over a century to 1918 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. What started with furnaces, ductwork, and floor registers expanded in 1929 into the agricultural world—adding oil tanks, livestock equipment, and eventually the wide variety of products they're known for today. Now in their fifth generation, Sioux Steel continues to provide everything from grain bins and livestock equipment to engineered fabric buildings and oil containment systems. Their reputation? Solid, durable products built to stand the test of time. The Famous "Lifetime Warranty Gate" One of the biggest talking points at Sioux Steel shows and dealer conversations is their lifetime warranty gate. And yes—you read that right. If a gate can no longer do its intended job (holding livestock), Sioux Steel will repair or replace it. These gates carry a gold sticker, a badge of confidence in their durability. While hinges aren't included under the warranty, the gate itself is built to handle years of livestock pressure. Farmers know these aren't just gates; they're investment pieces. Buy once, use for decades.  HiQual: Built for Heavy Duty In addition to the gold-standard Sioux Steel line, there's also the HiQual brand—easily recognized by its signature brown color. These gates and panels are especially popular in the Dakotas and the Northwest, where heavier livestock and harsher climates demand tougher equipment. The HiQual guarantee backs their Super 6 and Cattleman's gates—built with notch tubing and fully welded frames for extra rigidity. They've even been used for bison operations. If you're looking for equipment that can take on extreme conditions, HiQual is the go-to. More Than Steel—A Family Culture What impressed me most during my tour wasn't just the products but the people. Sioux Steel is a fifth-generation family business that treats its employees like family, too. Walking through the shop, I could see the pride their team takes in producing quality work. As a family business owner myself, I know how important it is to partner with companies that not only deliver great products but also care about their dealers and customers. Sioux Steel checks both boxes.  Proudly American-Made Another thing that stands out? Sioux Steel sources American-made steel. They can even provide melt and pour certifications for projects that require them. By partnering with local and American businesses whenever possible, they keep quality high while supporting other family-owned companies. It's relationship-driven work—knowing your vendors, calling up a partner when something needs to be expedited, and building trust at every step.  Why Sioux Steel Matters to Farmers Yes, Sioux Steel products might cost a little more upfront. But as Beth and Duane reminded me, "You buy it once, and you're done." Farmers don't have time to keep replacing equipment—they need products that can hold up to daily use, season after season. And that's exactly what Sioux Steel has been doing for over 100 years: producing quality equipment built by people who care.  Final Thoughts Touring Sioux Steel was more than just seeing how gates and bins are made—it was a chance to witness the values behind the brand: quality, integrity, and family. For me as a dealer, it reaffirms why I'm proud to carry their products at Feeders Grain & Farm Supply. So next time you see a Sioux Steel gate with that silver sticker—or a HiQual brown panel out in a pasture—you'll know there's over a century of craftsmanship, pride, and family tradition welded into every piece.

In this conversation, Erica Lantz interviews Anthony Jones, CEO of Jones Twine and Netwrap, discussing the evolution and importance of netwrap in the baling process. They explore the differences between netwrap and twine, the significance of quality over price, and the risks associated with feeding livestock bales wrapped in netwrap. The discussion also touches on current trends in the industry and the challenges faced by farmers transitioning from traditional methods to modern solutions. In this conversation, Erica Lantz and Anthony Jones discuss the evolution of baler technology, advancements in silage and grain bags, the importance of research and development in agricultural products, pest deterrent technologies, and the significance of building long-term relationships with farmers. They emphasize the need for quality products and the role of R&D in ensuring that agricultural solutions meet the demands of modern farming.

In this video, we walk through the entire process of how treated fence posts are made—from raw timber to the durable creosote and CCA-treated posts you trust on your farm. Tony, a long-time sales rep at Julian Lumber, shares the history, treatment methods, and why quality matters when it comes to posts that last for decades.  What you'll learn:  The difference between creosote and CCA treatments  Why air-drying timber is essential What makes Julian Lumber's posts stand the test of time Post sizes, availability & customer favorites Why Feeders Grain has sourced from Julian for generations Julian Lumber is a family-owned business built on trust, craftsmanship, and Midwest values—and we're proud to work with them. Have questions about posts or fencing? Contact Feeders Grain & Farm Supply—we're here to help you find the right fit for your operation. Contact Us 641.322.4011 [email protected] 2052 Hunter Trail, Corning, Iowa 50841 #JulianLumber #FeedersGrain #FarmSupply #CreosotePosts #FencePosts #Agriculture #BehindTheScenes #FarmLife #FamilyBusiness #PostTreatment #Woodworking #MidwestFarms #TimberProcessing

In this episode, Erica sits down with Tyler Long, a trusted Purina representative by day and a dedicated Simmental cattle producer by night. Tyler shares his unique perspective from both sides of the feed bag — helping producers make smart feed choices through Purina, and applying those same practices on his family's Simmental operation. Whether you're managing a full-scale herd or just want better performance from your livestock, this conversation is packed with value. 👉 Want to learn more about Purina products or local feed support? 📍 Follow Feeders Grain & Farm Supply on Facebook: 🔗   / feedersgrainiowa    Drop a Comment: Got a question about your feed program? Ask below, and we'll get you answers! #PurinaFeeds #SimmentalCattle #FeedersGrain #FarmTalk #LivestockNutrition #FarmFamily #CattleProducer #FarmSupplyStore #RanchLife #PurinaDealer #CattleFeeding #AgricultureLife

In this conversation, Erica Lantz and Rachel Teller discuss the intricacies of chicken nutrition, focusing on the Fertrell products used at Feeders Grain. Rachel shares her background in animal nutrition and the importance of balanced diets for poultry, including the differences in nutritional needs between chickens and ducks. They explore the benefits of Fertrell's Poultry NutriBalancer, the significance of free choice grit and calcium, and the differences between ground and pelleted feed. The discussion also covers broiler nutrition and the debate between medicated and unmedicated starter feeds, emphasizing natural alternatives for maintaining poultry health. In this conversation, Rachel Teller and Erica Lantz discuss various aspects of chicken care, focusing on gut health, the molting process, the impact of light on egg production, and nutritional needs. They emphasize the importance of probiotics, proper feeding schedules, and managing environmental factors like light and temperature to optimize chicken health and egg production.

Today, we're diving into the importance of minerals in your livestock operation. First up, we chat with Mitchell about why minerals are so crucial for cattle.

In this video, we're diving into a variety of important topics for growers, farmers, and land managers—including forage options, hay ground prep, brassicas, and even wildlife seed blends. Whether you're planting for livestock or looking to support local wildlife, this episode has something for you. Thanks so much to Mike for sharing his insight and expertise with us! https://missourisouthernseed.com/seed... Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more farm and seed insights.  #Forage #HayGround #Brassicas #WildlifeSeed #MissouriSouthernSeeds #FeedersGrain #FarmTalk #SeedKnowledge