Patio Ponderings

Send us Fan MailWhat does the future of the U.S. pork industry really look like?In this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, swine nutritionists Jim Smith and Dr. Trey Kellner from AMVC discuss the biggest challenges facing modern pork production—and surprisingly, very little of the conversation centers on actual pig diets. Instead, this conversation explores the larger forces shaping the future of the swine industry, including: Swine nutrition and feed strategy  Pork industry labor shortages  Capital requirements for modern sow farms and finishing barns  Agricultural leadership development  Training the next generation of swine nutritionists  Communication inside pork production systems  Feed mill operations and execution  Graduate education and soft skills in agriculture  Mental health and pressure in agriculture  The future of pork production in the United States Dr. Kellner shares insight from working across multiple pork production systems, feed mills, ingredient programs, and business units while balancing formulation strategy, manufacturing logistics, labor challenges, economics, and team leadership. Jim and Trey also discuss: Why capital access may become one of the defining issues in pork production  How labor shortages are reshaping swine operations  Why execution matters more than perfect feed formulations  The growing importance of leadership and communication skills for animal science graduates  How modern swine nutritionists must balance economics, logistics, people management, and production realities—not just amino acid levels The conversation also takes a deeper turn into mentorship, pressure, work-life balance, and the emotional weight often carried by leaders in agriculture. Whether you work in swine nutrition, pork production, feed manufacturing, animal agriculture, agribusiness, or agricultural leadership, this episode offers a thoughtful look at where the pork industry may be headed over the next 10 to 30 years.

Send us Fan MailThere’s a lot of noise in agriculture right now.From ag media to Washington, depending on who you listen to, we’re either heading into a financial crisis… or standing on the edge of a golden age.But what if the real story isn’t either of those?In this episode, I sit down with Shay Foulk of Ag View Solutions — a farmer and consultant who works directly inside the numbers of real farm operations through Profit Manager and peer groups.He’s not reacting to headlines. He’s seeing what’s actually happening.We start with a simple but uncomfortable question:Are we in a true crisis… or are we seeing a growing gap between strong operators and those that are struggling?From there, the conversation moves into the places most farms don’t openly talk about: Why some operations are pulling ahead while others are falling behind  The reality of cost of production — and how many actually know it  The disconnect between tax accounting and real decision-making  How household spending quietly shapes farm profitability  Why “people would rather be happy than informed” when it comes to their numbers  The role of peer groups, accountability, and getting off the “island” We also get into the harder conversations around transition planning, family dynamics, and what happens when farms operate as families first and businesses second.Shay brings a perspective shaped by farming, consulting, and military experience — blending discipline, preparation, and decision-making into how he approaches both business and life.And by the end, we land somewhere different than where we started.Maybe the golden age of agriculture isn’t something happening out there…Maybe it’s something that gets built — or missed — on your own farm.🔗 Connect with Shay Foulk & Ag View SolutionsAg View Solutions: https://www.agviewsolutions.com/Farm Profit Manager: https://farmprofitmanager.app/Ag View Pitch Podcast: https://www.agviewsolutions.com/podcasts

Send us Fan MailAgriculture runs on risk.Weather. Markets. Policy. Input costs. And increasingly — the mental weight of managing all of it.In this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim sits down with Anya Pinkerton — a Purdue Animal Sciences graduate whose career has taken her through the USDA Farm Service Agency, agricultural lending, and now into leading a growing crop insurance business.That perspective matters.Because Anya has seen agriculture from multiple sides of the desk — and understands that risk isn’t just something you manage on paper… it’s something you carry.This conversation explores: How crop insurance has evolved from simple hail coverage to complex, revenue-based protection  Why today’s farmers are using insurance as a strategic tool — not just catastrophic backup  The growing importance of trust between farmers and their advisors  How communication — not just data — determines whether risk is understood or ignored  The mental and emotional weight of farming in an era of bigger numbers and tighter margins  Why no two farms should approach risk the same way Along the way, Jim and Anya touch on leadership, mentorship, Purdue basketball, and the reality that sometimes the most important conversations in agriculture aren’t about production — they’re about perspective.At its core, this episode is about one simple idea:Risk doesn’t disappear. It gets shared, structured, and understood — or it gets ignored.Five Signature Questions IncludedAs always, the episode closes with the Patio Pondering Five — covering lessons from agriculture, underappreciated truths, and small changes that could shape the future of the industry.

Send us Fan MailTerry Sible grew up on a farm outside Churubusco, Indiana, learning the same lessons many farm kids do: responsibility, patience, and the value of community.At eighteen, Terry’s life took an unexpected turn. Just five years earlier he had lost his father in a farm accident in the same barn where Terry kept his 4-H livestock. But instead of letting those moments define him, he built a life centered on helping others.Today Terry works with schools and families helping children with disabilities find success in the classroom. Terry may get around in a wheelchair, but it has never defined who he is. Instead, the patience, resilience, and sense of community he learned growing up on a farm in northwest Allen County continue to shape how he approaches life and the people he works with.In this conversation we talk about growing up in 4-H and FFA, the farm community that rallied around him after his accident, raising kids, and the role patience and positivity still play in his life today.Terry also answers the Patio Pondering Five Questions, sharing what agriculture taught him about resilience, community, and why farmers are always trying to do the right thing.

Send us Fan MailLeadership in agriculture is often talked about as if it simply appears — the loudest voice in the room or the person willing to take charge.But real leadership is something different. It can be cultivated, sharpened, and intentionally developed.In this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, I sit down with Jill Zimmerman, President of the Kansas Agricultural and Rural Leadership (KARL) Program, to talk about how leadership actually develops in agriculture and rural communities.Jill shares how programs like KARL help cultivate leaders across agriculture, rural communities, healthcare, education, and policy — and why leadership today requires collaboration, service, and a willingness to step forward.Along the way we explore:• How leadership in agriculture is evolving • Why raising your hand still matters in rural communities • The power of networks and relationships in agriculture • The importance of allowing “a pause in the noise” to sharpen our thinking • How mentorship and encouragement shape future leadersPlus Jill answers the Patio Pondering Five Questions, sharing lessons about passion for agriculture, leadership development, and the future of agricultural innovation.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim sits down with Brian McFarland, a longtime leader in the beef packing industry and a cattle producer with experience across multiple parts of the beef supply chain.Jim and Brian first met years ago in graduate school at Kansas State, but their conversation quickly moves beyond old memories into the realities facing the beef industry today.They discuss the shrinking U.S. cow herd, rising beef demand, and the economic challenges of rebuilding cattle numbers. Brian shares insights from his years inside packing plants at companies like Tyson, IBP, and JBS, explaining the major advances in food safety that have occurred over the past three decades.Along the way the conversation wanders—as good agricultural conversations often do—into topics like cooking meat correctly, the rise of meat thermometers, raw milk debates, veterinary shortages, and even long-range rifles and bow hunting.It’s a wide-ranging discussion that highlights how complex modern agriculture really is—and how much work happens behind the scenes to safely put food on the plate.Topics include:• Why the U.S. cow herd may take years to rebuild • The economics of cattle vs. crop farming • Beef-on-dairy genetics and how it changed the industry • The hidden food-safety systems inside modern packing plants • Why cooking meat properly matters more than people think • Challenges facing veterinary medicine in agriculture • Technology shaping agriculture’s futurePlus Brian answers the Patio Pondering Five Questions, sharing lessons about work ethic, innovation, and the future of agriculture.Brian can be found on LinkedIn at:linkedin.com/in/thebrianmcfarlaneHis cold weather gear company can be found at:https://shivershield.com/

Send us Fan MailOver the past week something happened that made me stop and think about Patio Pondering.At the Niman Ranch Annual Meeting, a young woman at a lunch table suddenly looked across the table and said, “Oh… you’re Patio Pondering.” The moment was unexpected, but it was not the only one. Throughout the week at the Midwest Animal Science Meetings and a Purdue alumni event, several people quietly shared that they had been reading or listening.None of them had ever commented online.But they were reading. They were listening.That realization led to another reflection. This week Patio Pondering quietly passed its 18-month mark. In that time there have been more than 300 written reflections and 78 podcast episodes, reaching listeners and readers on every continent except Antarctica.Somewhere along the way, without really planning it, Patio Pondering has developed a structure.Like the old three-legged milk stools that sat in barns across the Midwest, it now stands on three legs:• Writing• Conversations• ConsultingTogether those three legs support a place to pause for a moment and think about agriculture.This episode reflects on how Patio Pondering started, what it has become, and the simple goal behind it all:Clear thinking for complex agriculture.And apparently… the penguins are next.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to turn a farm kid into a professor preparing the next generation of agricultural teachers?In this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim sits down with longtime friend and FarmHouse brother Dr. Travis Park of North Carolina State University.Travis shares the path that took him from Trafalgar, Indiana and the Indian Creek FFA chapter to a national career in agricultural education.Along the way the conversation explores:what new ag teachers really face when they enter the classroomwhy electives like FFA and band matter more than we often admithow agriculture survived the brain drain of the 1980s farm crisisthe importance of resilience in both farming and educationand how agriculture must balance tradition with global realitiesTravis also reflects on raising three daughters, keeping honeybees in a suburban neighborhood, and why agriculture still requires a deep amount of faith.As always, the episode closes with Jim’s five signature questions — covering everything from Booker T. Washington to the humble milking machine.It’s a thoughtful conversation about leadership, education, and the people who shape agriculture’s future.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim sits down with longtime friend and agricultural leader Jamee Krug Blahauvietz.Jamee’s career path is anything but typical. Starting with a unique combination of journalism and animal science at Iowa State, she built a career that moved from agricultural advertising to leadership roles in major animal health companies including Elanco and Phibro.The conversation begins with a simple question: How would three people describe you?Jamee’s answer — Hard Working. Determined. Strategic. — becomes the thread that runs through the entire discussion.Jim and Jamee explore:• The unexpected path from restaurant manager to ag marketing • Lessons learned working inside both agency and corporate agriculture • The strategy behind the well-known “Full Value” livestock campaigns • Why legacy is one of the most powerful emotional drivers in agriculture • How leadership in agriculture has evolved over the past 30 years • The growing humanization of the agricultural workplace • The balance between career ambition and family lifeThey also discuss how agriculture is adapting to new tools like AI, changing marketing channels, and new technology in livestock production.The episode closes with the Patio Pondering tradition of five questions — touching on lessons from agriculture, innovation in livestock production, and one small change that could make a big difference for the future of the industry.It’s a thoughtful conversation about leadership, legacy, and the people who make agriculture work.

Send us Fan MailIn this milestone episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim sits down with Ryan Moe of StoneX for a conversation that moves beyond farm roots and into the harder questions of discipline, risk, and decision-making.At what point does being good at production stop being enough?Ryan shares how his early experience in energy hedging and commodity markets reshaped his thinking: raising crops or livestock well does not automatically mean managing risk well.Together, they unpack:Why most producers avoid structured risk managementThe emotional trap of waiting for higher pricesThe disconnect between hedge accounts and checking accountsWhy portfolio management beats home-run marketingThe illusion of small-scale commodity profitabilityHow AI and algorithmic trading are already shaping marketsAnd why personal discipline may be agriculture’s greatest competitive edgeThis episode challenges romantic narratives about farming and replaces them with something sturdier: clear thinking for complex agriculture.If you produce commodities, manage market risk, or wrestle with marketing decisions each season, this conversation will sharpen your perspective.

Send us Fan MailClint Gorden, a central Illinois farmer, joins the Patio Pondering Podcast to discuss what it means to be a skip-generation farmer—connected to farming through grandparents, but without a parent actively farming to provide day-to-day guidance. Clint shares how he built his path through farm work, the seed business, and the relationships and mentorship that helped him earn opportunities in agriculture.Jim and Clint explore the realities of modern Midwest farming, including aging farmers, larger operations with “more zeros,” the increasing importance of strategy in farming decisions, and how technology and broader networks influence learning, efficiency, and risk management.Topics covered:What “skip-generation farmer” means in today’s agricultureGetting started in farming without a prior generation in the cabSeed sales, cold-calling, and building credibilityAging farmers and generational transitionWhy farming has become more strategic as operations growCommunity involvement: Farm Bureau, Corn Growers, Lions ClubRecording note: This conversation ends earlier than planned due to a technical interruption. Jim and Clint plan to reconnect and continue the discussion in a future episode.

Send us Fan MailWhat do snowboarding, nano-fertilizer, and geopolitics have to do with modern agriculture?In this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim talks with Clark Bell, CEO of NanoYield and former TEDx speaker, about his journey from working on his family’s sod farm to leading one of ag’s most intriguing nanotechnology companies.Clark explains how nano-fertilizer and nanoparticle delivery systems help farmers improve nutrient uptake, optimize crop inputs, and rethink fertilizer strategies under mounting economic and environmental pressures.The conversation explores:• How nanotechnology works in crop production • Fertilizer use, nutrient uptake, and ROI in corn & soybeans • Specialty crops vs. commodity agriculture • Input cost pressures, global supply chains & geopolitics • Risk, resilience, and lessons from snowboarding • The importance of advisory teams for modern producers • Local innovation’s role in a global ag economyThis wide-ranging episode connects science, strategy, and real-world decision making — offering practical insight into technologies scaling across millions of acres.Connect with Clark Bell: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarktbell/ 🔗 NanoYield site: https://www.nano-yield.com/ 🔗 NanoYield LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nanoyield/

Send us Fan MailPorcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) remains one of the most costly and frustrating diseases in modern swine production. Despite decades of research, new technologies, and substantial industry investment, PRRS continues to disrupt herds and challenge producers.In this reflective solo episode, Jim Smith explores the tension between producer frustration, the adaptive nature of the PRRS virus, and the scale of research funding dedicated to combating it. This thought piece examines difficult questions about expectations, investment levels, systemic consequences, and whether the pork industry is asking the right questions about PRRS.This episode does not argue against PRRS control or pig health initiatives. Instead, it invites listeners to think more deeply about progress, economics, incentives, and the uncomfortable realities surrounding one of the swine industry’s most persistent challenges.

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim Smith explores an uncomfortable but necessary question facing the U.S. pork industry: are we actually prepared for success if PRRS were eliminated?Drawing on decades of experience in swine nutrition and production, Jim reflects on the long arc of PRRS—from its early emergence in the Midwest to today’s massive investments in disease control and eradication. While improving pig health and reducing mortality is unquestionably the right goal at the farm level, this episode examines what happens when those gains occur across the entire system at once.Using the 1998 hog market collapse as a cautionary parallel, Jim walks through the physical and economic constraints that still exist today: packing capacity, labor availability, market absorption, and demand response. What happens if millions more pigs survive to market weight—but the infrastructure and markets aren’t ready?This episode is not an argument against animal health, veterinary innovation, or disease research. It is a systems-level conversation about unintended consequences, second-order effects, and why solving one constraint without planning for what comes next can shift pressure elsewhere.If you’re involved in pork production, animal agriculture, agribusiness, or agricultural economics—and especially if you lived through 1998—this episode invites you to slow down and think about a question the industry rarely asks out loud:What happens after we catch the car?

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 70 of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim Smith sits down with longtime friend and swine ultrasound innovator Dallas McDermott on the floor of the 2026 Iowa Pork Congress to talk about how ultrasound technology has quietly evolved—and why it matters more now than ever.Ultrasound in the swine industry used to be about backfat, muscle depth, and seedstock selection. Today, it is something entirely different. Dallas, one of the last remaining certified swine ultrasound technicians in the U.S., explains how modern systems—paired with machine learning and AI—are now being used inside packing plants to measure intramuscular fat (IMF) at line speed.That matters because pork loins, once a premium cut, have lost value due to inconsistent eating quality. Using ultrasound to measure IMF on carcasses—at 600 to 1,200 head per hour—allows packers to sort premium product in real time, improve consistency, and capture value that has been left on the table for years.This conversation explores:Why pork loins lost their premium status and how eating quality drives demandHow ultrasound and AI are reshaping carcass evaluation inside packing plantsUSDA-funded innovation aimed at helping small and mid-sized packers compete through quality, not scaleWhat pork can learn from beef’s focus on marbling and consumer satisfactionThe implications for genetics, niche programs, and future pork demandAs pork works to move beyond “the other white meat” and reposition itself as a premium protein, this episode highlights a quiet but important paradigm shift. If pork is going to compete for space on the consumer’s plate, it has to taste good—and this conversation explains how technology may help get us there.This is not your dad’s ultrasound.

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, recorded on the road in Des Moines after the first day of the Iowa Pork Congress, I share an observation that kept coming up in conversations across the trade show floor.I didn’t hear much discussion about hog margins or markets — even with profitability where it is today. Instead, I kept hearing the same questions: Where are the farmers? Where are the decision makers? Is this still worth the investment?Drawing on my first Iowa Pork Congress in 1999 and earlier experiences in the pork industry, I reflect on how much the structure of our industry has changed — larger operations, fewer decision makers, faster information flow, and tighter time constraints — while many of our events are still designed for an industry that no longer exists.This episode isn’t about blame or nostalgia. It’s about alignment.When purchasing decisions have consolidated and time has become one of the most valuable resources in agriculture, we owe it to the industry to ask hard questions about the return on investment of our trade shows, events, and gatherings.The question isn’t whether these events still matter.The question is whether we’re willing to evolve them.

Send us Fan MailThis episode is my raw take from the Fort Wayne Farm Show. I intended to record more interviews, but the show floor was packed — so instead, I’m sharing what I saw, heard, and felt over three days.We talk about the WASDE bombshell that set the tone for the week, how farmers are thinking about tightening belts in 2025, what suppliers are saying (and not saying), and whether biologicals have a place in a year of tight margins. I also dig into the gap between precision tech and real-world ROI, the growing skepticism toward USDA reporting, and why the pork industry currently looks a whole lot more optimistic than the crop side.If you're trying to farm smart in a year of cautious spending and uncertain markets, this one’s worth a listen.

Send us Fan MailJoin Jim at the Fort Wayne Farm Show for an energizing conversation with Mary Marsh Heigele from New Ag Supply in North Central Kansas. Mary brings a unique perspective on agriculture, having grown up in California's almond country and now farming wheat, corn, and cattle in Kansas with her husband Hayden.In this episode, we explore:How New Ag Supply ships replacement planter parts nationwide (yes, even to Alaska and Hawaii!)Staying optimistic during challenging commodity pricesDirect-to-consumer beef marketing as farm diversificationUsing your own corn to feed cattle as a value-added opportunityCover crops as a gateway to thinking outside the traditional row crop boxOff-farm income through photography and videographyReal-world examples of farm diversification beyond the traditional corn-soy-wheat rotationMary shares honest insights about the current agricultural climate across the country and encourages farmers to explore diversification opportunities - whether that's different crops, livestock, or even leveraging skills like photography to support the farm operation.Contact New Ag Supply:Website: newagsupply.comPhone: 620-938-7009Find them on Facebook, Twitter, and TikTokWhether you're looking for quality replacement planter parts or inspiration to diversify your operation, this episode delivers practical ideas and genuine conversation about agriculture today.#Agriculture #FarmDiversification #DirectToConsumer #CoverCrops #FarmBusiness #PatroPondering

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Jim talks with Aaron Kuhn, Regional Manager with Poet Biorefining in Portland, Indiana, about market realities facing farmers as they head into the 2026 crop year. Coming off a sharp USDA report and entering the spring crop insurance pricing window, corn marketing decisions are getting tight — especially in the Eastern Corn Belt.Aaron breaks down what he’s seeing in the countryside on old crop vs. new crop movement, why January–February brings forced sales due to cash flow, and how basis is behaving across Ohio and Indiana after a year of mixed yields. They also dig into how exports, the Brazil safrinha crop, and southeast feed demand influence local basis strength.Jim and Aaron also tackle one of the biggest points of confusion in the market right now — the 45Z biofuel credit. Aaron explains why 45Z currently benefits biofuel plants but isn’t yet flowing value back to farmers, what’s holding up climate-smart scoring, and why sustainability incentives are still worth tracking.Aaron closes with pragmatic advice for 2026: know your true cost of production, don’t fall asleep during potential rallies, and use target orders rather than emotional marketing.

Send us Fan MailThis solo episode starts with a memory from 1978 on the tailgate of my grandfather’s Ford pickup and ends with the blunt reality of 2025 farm bookkeeping and modern USDA market reports. What connects those pieces is uncomfortable: farming profitability has always been fragile.My grandparents scraped through the Depression with $12.34 a month in recorded farm income. My grandfather warned me that “there’s no money in farming.” And nearly fifty years later, I’m running numbers with disaster assistance, government payments, and market swings driven by noon WASDE releases. Different decades, different tools, different programs — same fragility.In this episode I talk about: • Why profitability remains fleeting across generations • What USDA reports actually do to real farm margins • How disaster programs distort our view of survivability • The emotional weight behind farm financial decisions • Why the “zeros” changed, but the struggle didn’t • The uncomfortable continuity between 1930 and 2025If you’ve ever felt the stress of bookwork, market reactions, or the silence that comes after a USDA report moves the board — you’re not alone. The tools and programs change, but the story is older than any of us.

Send us Fan MailThis solo episode starts with the simple act of closing out farm books and ends with a phone call that hits much deeper. A young professional in agriculture reached out after losing his job and facing a major crossroads: pursue an accelerated doctorate program out of town or stay close to home and fight for a place in an uncertain ag job market.It was a conversation about choices, identity, timing, and how mentorship really works — especially in agriculture. Not the formal “assigned mentor” programs, but the quiet kind that happens when someone trusts you enough to ask for advice.In this episode I talk about: • Why ag professionals are facing tough career decisions • The hidden value of lived experience in career guidance • Informal mentorship vs. formal mentorship programs • The role of friendship when the chips are down • How the ag economy is impacting young talent • Why listening matters more than having the “right” answerIf you’re between jobs, navigating the ag industry, or wondering where you fit next — you’re not alone. And if someone calls you looking for guidance, don’t underestimate the impact of simply showing up.Keywords: agriculture careers, ag jobs, ag economy, mentorship in ag, informal mentorship, agricultural workforce, career crossroads, farm life, rural careers, ag professional development, ag education, PhD vs industry, ag unemployment, advising young farmers, agricultural roots, agriculture podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim Smith is joined by Justin Fix, Ph.D., a swine geneticist with AcuFast, joining the conversation from Muscatine, Iowa.This is a wide-ranging discussion about how agricultural roots shape perspective as careers evolve — especially in an industry that has shifted from family-run operations to large, integrated systems.Justin shares his journey growing up in Southeast Iowa, his early exposure to agriculture through family farms, FFA, and livestock judging, and how those experiences carried him through Iowa State, graduate work at North Carolina State, and roles with the National Swine Registry, Smithfield, and The Maschhoffs before returning home to Iowa.Together, Jim and Justin explore:What it means to grow up around “traditional” agriculture in the MidwestHow working with small, family-run producers builds empathy that carries into large systemsThe transition from purebred and youth-focused genetics to integrated commercial pork productionWhy genetics, nutrition, health, and management can never be viewed in isolationHow consolidation has changed decision-making, communication, and leadership in the pork industryThe importance of listening, respect, and understanding context when working across silosThis episode is less about equations and data — and more about people, perspective, and problem-solving in modern agriculture.Whether you work in pork production, animal genetics, nutrition, or simply care about how food systems evolve, this conversation offers thoughtful insight into where the industry has been — and where it may be headed next.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, I sit down with Jay Setchell for a wide-ranging conversation shaped by farm life, service, perseverance, and the quiet grit required to keep moving forward when life gets hard.Jay grew up on a working farm where responsibility came early and lessons were learned through doing. From dangerous chores around silos and augers to long days learning efficiency one acre at a time, those early experiences formed a deep respect for hard work, accountability, and the risks that come with producing food.Our discussion moves through Jay’s reflections on community and small-town life, the importance of neighbors helping neighbors, and how those early examples of service shaped the way he views responsibility and leadership today. Jay shares stories that highlight both the strength and fragility of rural life, and the lasting impact of showing up for others when it matters most.Later in the conversation, Jay opens up about facing serious illness, extended hospitalization, and moments when quitting would have been understandable. He reflects on the mindset that carried him through those seasons, the importance of attitude, and why persistence often matters more than circumstance.This episode is a thoughtful reflection on resilience, responsibility, and the belief that it is always too soon to quit.—Patio Pondering is a long-form podcast exploring the important and the obscure in agriculture through thoughtful conversation.https://www.patiopondering.com/podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, I sit down with longtime friend, mentor, and Iowa farmer Roy Bardole for a wide-ranging conversation about conservation farming, soil health, faith, and stewardship.Roy grew up farming in Iowa’s prairie pothole region, shaped by parents and grandparents who lived through the Great Depression, drought, loss, and relentless hard work. Those early experiences instilled a deep respect for land and water — and a belief that soil is not something we own, but something we are entrusted to care for.Our discussion moves through Roy’s early lessons in soil structure and water management, his adoption of no-till farming long before it became common, and the skepticism he faced for sticking with conservation practices even when they were unpopular. Roy explains how firsthand observation of erosion, runoff, and soil loss convinced him that long-term soil health requires patience, humility, and the willingness to stand apart from the crowd.We also explore Roy’s decades of service beyond the farm, including leadership roles in his church and nearly 30 years serving the soybean industry at the state, national, and international levels. For Roy, service was never about prestige or power, but about responsibility: using the gifts you’re given and leaving institutions stronger than you found them.Faith weaves quietly but firmly through the conversation. Roy reflects on how the teachings of Christ shaped his approach to leadership, conservation, and community; returning again and again to a simple but demanding principle at the heart of faith and farming: love your neighbor, live by example, and care for what you have been given.This episode is a thoughtful reflection on stewardship, resilience, and the long view — of land, people, and purpose.— Patio Pondering is a long-form podcast exploring the important and the obscure in agriculture through thoughtful conversation. https://www.patiopondering.com/podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, I sit down with longtime friend and FarmHouse brother Jim Bishop for a conversation that took a different turn than originally planned — and ended up right where it needed to go.Instead of focusing heavily on farm stories, Jim and I explore leadership, identity, burnout, and the human side of work. Drawing from Jim’s experience in executive leadership development and my own experiences navigating leadership in agriculture and business, we talk candidly about why work often “sucks,” how cultures drift away from humanity, and what it costs when leaders lose touch with themselves and the people they lead.This conversation also serves as a natural companion to my recent episode with Mark Voors. Where that discussion explored leadership and growth from the bottom up, this episode continues the thread from the executive and C-suite perspective — together forming a broader reflection on leadership and personal development.It’s a more reflective, philosophical episode than usual — a different rhythm — but an honest one. If you’ve ever wrestled with expectations, burnout, or what it really means to lead well, this conversation will likely hit close to home.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim sits down with longtime friend, fellow FarmHouse brother, and ag-industry leader Mark Voors for a conversation that blends leadership, personal growth, faith, and the deep internal work that shapes a meaningful career.Mark’s path has taken him from FFA State Officer, to roles with John Deere, Monsanto, Cargill, and ultimately to his current position at Beck’s Hybrids. But the titles only scratch the surface. What Mark shares in this conversation is much more personal:how coaching—not managing—became his true callingwhat confidence really means in sales and leadershiphow organizations unintentionally limit the people they rely on mostthe moment a painful performance review shifted the entire trajectory of his lifethe difficult but necessary move from head knowledge to heart knowledge in his faithwhy internal reflection is often harder than any job we work in agricultureThis is an episode grounded in honesty and growth. Mark speaks openly about pride, shame, career pivots, spiritual clarity, and the courage it takes to look inward when life demands it.If you’ve ever wrestled with purpose, leadership, self-worth, or the quiet pull toward something deeper, Mark’s story will meet you right where you are.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Patio Pondering, Jim sits down with longtime friend, FarmHouse fraternity brother, and Purdue Dairy Judging Coach Brian Engleking to explore a life shaped by dairy cattle, youth leadership, and an unexpected medical crisis that forced him to rebuild from the ground up.Brian shares his journey from growing up on a small Indiana dairy farm to becoming a Holstein classifier, evaluating more than 250,000 cows across 47 states and several countries. He reflects on how those years on the road shaped his eye for cattle, his understanding of the dairy industry, and his appreciation for the people who make agriculture work.The conversation turns deeply personal as Brian describes the brain bleed that ended his classification career and required him to relearn basic motor skills. With honesty and clarity, he talks about the frustration, fatigue, faith, and perspective that emerged from that season of rebuilding.Today, Brian has found his second dream job as the coach of the Purdue Dairy Judging Team, where he mentors college students in livestock evaluation, reasons, communication, and confidence.Together, Jim and Brian discuss:What dairy farmers really look for when evaluating cowsHow FFA, 4-H, and dairy judging shape work ethic and leadershipWhy real conversation still matters in a phone-driven worldHow adversity can reorder a life and reveal a new callingThe lessons agriculture teaches about resilience, purpose, and starting againIf you enjoy agriculture stories that blend livestock, leadership, and life perspective, this episode will resonate deeply.

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, host Jim Smith reflects on one year of living alcohol-free — not from rock bottom or rehab, but from a quiet decision to reclaim clarity, creativity, and control.Jim shares the real story behind his turning point — the morning-after moment that made him realize alcohol had become more ritual than reward. From there, he talks about how quitting drinking changed his focus, relationships, and mental clarity without judgment or preachiness.If you’ve ever thought about cutting back, rethinking your relationship with alcohol, or just wondering what life feels like on the other side, this episode is an honest look at how one year sober can reshape your perspective — and your peace.Key topics:Why I quit drinking after my son’s birthday partyHow the ritual of drinking was harder to break than the alcoholWhat changed in 365 days without alcoholHow clarity, creativity, and calm replaced my nightly pourWhy quitting drinking was the best decision I made for myselfKeywords: sobriety podcast, quit drinking story, one year without alcohol, sober living, recovery podcast, self-improvement, mental clarity, bourbon habit, lifestyle change, personal growth, motivation, mindfulness, sober curious.☕ “Sometimes the biggest change isn’t giving something up — it’s gaining yourself back.”

Send us Fan MailChloe Buchanan grew up in Leo, Indiana, found her footing in 4-H, and now manages a Great Lakes team at Trans Ova Genetics as a professional services embryologist—doing on-farm IVF collections, embryo transfer (fresh & frozen), and supporting cattle and small-ruminant programs. We talk about what an embryologist actually does, the difference between lab IVF roles and field PSE work, and how advanced reproductive technologies accelerate genetic progress on both seedstock and commercial operations. Chloe shares her path through Southern Illinois University (SIU), the mentors who opened doors, and how she leads a remote, multi-state team at 28—covering one-on-ones, staying connected on the road, and “leading without a title.” We also touch on Temple Grandin, why friendships and community matter in ag, and how to bring more non-traditional students into animal agriculture. If you’re curious about practical IVF, ET, and day-to-day leadership in production ag, this one’s for you.Keywords: Trans Ova Genetics, embryologist, IVF cattle, embryo transfer, ET, small ruminants, cloning, 4-H, SIU, Leo Indiana, Great Lakes region, remote team management, Temple Grandin, advanced reproductive technologies.Guest: Chloe Buchanan — Professional Services Embryologist Manager, Trans Ova Genetics Host: Jim Smith, Ph.D. — Farmer, Swine Nutritionist, and Storyteller of Agriculture & Life

Send us Fan MailFormer Market to Market host and Ag News Daily co-founder Delaney Howell shares why her motto is “Progress Over Perfection.” From farming in Tama County to running a boutique marketing agency and launching her new initiative She Creates Rural, Delaney reveals how to start before you’re ready, build momentum, and trust yourself in business.We cover:Progress Over Perfection: why action beats polish every timePermission vs. knowledge — finding the confidence to startDesigning She Creates Rural: marketing, finance, and biz-dev tracksPartnerships, mentors, and balancing five businesses + a farmSuccession planning and picking one authentic platform for your brandHow Delaney uses AI as a practical accelerator for small teams👉 Learn more about Delaney’s new conference here: She Creates RuralConnect with Delaney:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/delaneyhowellX (Twitter): @DelaneyHowell07Instagram: @delaney_howellGuest: Delaney Howell — marketer, podcaster, farmer, founder of She Creates Rural. Host: Jim Smith, Ph.D. — farmer, swine nutritionist, storyteller of agriculture & life.

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode of Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim reflects on the art of interviewing after listening to Patrick Bet-David’s podcast conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The experience sparked a key question for every podcast host: who’s really the star of an interview — the host or the guest?Drawing on stories from his own podcasting journey, Jim shares practical podcast interview tips and lessons for hosts. He explains why the best role of a podcaster is to step back, ask simple inquisitive questions, and let the guest shine. From the power of silence to moments when guests offered surprising stories, this episode explores why less host and more guest often leads to better interviews.Whether you’re new to podcasting, an experienced podcast host, or a leader who wants to ask better questions, these reflections offer actionable insights you can apply today.

Send us Fan Mail Farmers often say, “My land is my retirement plan.” But what happens when that plan never gets cashed in?In this solo Patio Pondering episode, Jim Smith, Ph.D. dives into the hard realities of retirement planning in agriculture. From the trap of buying equipment at year’s end to minimize taxes, to the risks of relying on farmland as a “retirement plan” that never gets sold, Jim explores why so many farmers find themselves still running combines into their 80s.He contrasts the lack of young farmers entering the industry with ag media celebrating 86-year-olds still harvesting, raising the question: is this passion — or poor retirement planning?Key points in this episode:Why minimizing income can hurt your Social Security eligibilityHow off-farm income and retirement accounts (401k, IRA) provide real securityThe Platte River problem: wide retirement talk, but shallow planningWhy farmland and machinery aren’t true retirement plans without a plan to liquidate👉 Whether you’re a farmer, an ag lender, or anyone thinking about succession planning, this episode will challenge how you see farming as both a lifestyle and a business.

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode, Jim shares his perspective on the Pro Farmer Crop Tour, crop yield estimates, and how farmers can cut through the “black box” of USDA reports. Drawing on his 2020 scout experience, he recounts fields that ranged from 300-bushel corn in Illinois to derecho-flattened zeros in Iowa—showing the extremes of U.S. agriculture.Along the way, Jim addresses common criticisms of the tour (trespassing, cherry-picking fields), explains why transparency matters, and connects the lessons to everyday farming and business decisions.The bigger theme: in agriculture and in life, information is king, but action is the edge.👉 Listen for insights on the Crop Tour, yield projections, and decision-making in today’s information-heavy farm economy.

Send us Fan Mail Every business has a “70%” — the single biggest cost or effort that quietly drives success or failure. In pig production, that 70% is feed. It’s not flashy, it’s not exciting, but it makes or breaks profitability.In this solo episode, Jim Smith shares why focusing on the fundamentals often delivers bigger results than chasing the newest, shiniest ideas. Drawing on decades of swine nutrition experience and a recent cost analysis, he shows how small improvements in the largest expense category — whether it’s feed in agriculture or something else in your own business — can lead to major gains.From feed budgets and efficiency to broader lessons about avoiding distractions, Jim asks the question: What’s your 70%, and are you giving it the attention it deserves?

Send us Fan MailFor our 50th episode, we’re not pulling any punches.Jim sits down with Jerod McDaniel, a farmer, cattleman, and unapologetic contrarian from Texhoma, Oklahoma, who’s made a name for himself by doing what most in agriculture won’t: calling out the broken systems, the lazy thinking, and the comfortable lies.Jerod took over his family’s operation at 18 and has spent the last three decades doing things differently because the mainstream often gets it wrong. From planting low-pop corn in the dust-blown Oklahoma Panhandle to challenging the way we manage herds (and people), Jerod brings real-world wisdom and the kind of honesty that makes people squirm and think.In this episode:Why he thinks most ag narratives are theater and how to spot the liesHow learning by failure built his bullshit radarWhat cattle management taught him about human behavior during COVIDThe problem with breeding for docility livestock and in societyHow he raises kids who can think, act, and challenge the status quoThis isn’t just a conversation. It’s a wake-up call wrapped in cowboy grit.If you’re tired of corporate-sanitized ag talk, this is the one you’ve been waiting for.

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode of Patio Pondering, Jim reflects on a moment at the Indiana State Fair that left him unsettled when he witnessed something wrong and didn’t speak up. What started as an uncomfortable memory became a deeper reckoning with silence, regret, and the choices we make in real time.This isn’t just a story about livestock or county fairs. It’s about leadership, responsibility, and the moments we carry with us long after they’ve passed. Jim shares how this experience made him reflect on times in work, home, and community where silence felt safer but left a scar.If you’ve ever looked back and wished you’d spoken up, this one’s for you.In this episode, I discuss:Why we stay silent when we know something’s wrongThe internal battle between comfort and convictionHow leadership often starts in everyday, unscripted momentsWhat it means to carry regret—and how to be ready next timeTune in for an honest, unpolished look at one of the hardest things to admit: the times we didn’t speak and wish we had.

Send us Fan MailYou know him as the voice of AgriTalk, delivering market insights with clarity and conviction. But in this episode, Chip Flory sits on the other side of the microphone to share the personal journey that shaped his life in agriculture media.This is not a conversation about markets or grain reports. Instead, we dig into Chip’s rural Iowa upbringing, the influence of his mother’s writing, and how the struggles of the 1980s farm crisis helped shape his passion for communication. We explore the family moments, career pivots, and faith-driven lessons that turned Chip into one of agriculture’s most trusted voices.Whether you're a farmer, broadcaster, or someone who just appreciates the stories behind the people who shape the ag conversation, this one’s for you.We dig into:How his mother’s rural newspaper work sparked his passion for storytellingThe family farm sale that rerouted his future—and nearly fractured his familyWhat it was like reporting from the CBOT in the pre-digital eraLessons learned about hedging, basis, and the emotional weight of writing with impactWhy farmers are more business-savvy than the stereotypes give them credit forTune in for a heartfelt and humble conversation with the man behind the mic.

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode of Patio Ponderings Podcast, host Jim Smith, Ph.D.—farmer, swine nutritionist, and ag communicator—reflects on the evolving face of modern agriculture.Over the past few weeks, Jim watched hay and wheat straw harvests unfold across northeast Indiana. What once was a one-person job has become a fast-moving operation involving truckers, baler operators, skid loaders, and field managers working together like a choreographed crew.This episode dives into: • The shift from traditional farming to modern, team-based ag operations • The importance of farm labor crews in hay and straw harvest • How trust, timing, and communication drive agricultural success • What agriculture teaches us about leadership, logistics, and communityWhether you're a farmer, agribusiness professional, or just someone curious about the people behind your food, this reflection offers insight into the teamwork and trust required to make modern farms run smoothly.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Patio Pondering, I sit down with longtime Ag Twitter friend and powerhouse Corteva territory manager Emily Flory Carolan. From cold calls in cornfields to designing homes during a sabbatical from ag, Emily’s path has been anything but linear.We dig deep into:Her ag roots and how a childhood moment in a grain truck shaped her early view of the industryLessons learned from her dad, Chip Flory, without walking in his shadow or relying on his influenceBuilding a career in ag sales as a woman, mother, and high achieverAn unexpected shift into residential construction and what ultimately pulled her back to agricultureThe weight of replant decisions, succession planning, and helping growers carry emotional loadsWhy Crop Tour matters, even when the data stingsAnd how a grain cart mishap led to the infamous “Emily Clause” in the Grain Cart Safety Protocol on Chris Barron’s farmThis episode is filled with humor, heart, and a powerful reminder: sometimes stepping away is what it takes to rediscover where you truly belong.Whether you’re in sales, farming, or navigating your own crossroads in ag, Emily’s story will hit home.Tune in and join the conversation about perseverance, perspective, and the people who make agriculture feel like family.

Send us Fan MailWhat do show pigs and school bands have in common? According to Colby Stackhouse, a whole lot more than you'd expect.In this episode of Patio Pondering, I talk with Colby—band director at Leo Junior/Senior High School—about his unlikely journey from barn boots to baton. Raised on a working farm and seasoned through years in 4-H livestock programs, Colby learned early how responsibility, structure, and resilience shape success. Today, those same lessons anchor his approach as a music educator and mentor to dozens of students navigating high school life.We explore the parallels between agriculture and the arts, the daily challenges of running a band program, and why community support and strong leadership matter just as much in the band room as they do in the show ring.Whether you’re an educator, a 4-H parent, a former band kid, or someone who believes in the transformative power of music education, Colby’s story will resonate.Note: There’s some slight distortion on my mic in this episode—but Colby’s audio is crystal clear, and the message is well worth your time.Highlights include:How 4-H and livestock shape discipline, leadership, and gritNavigating student dynamics in group performanceThe critical role of arts in education and school cultureTeaching emotion, not just notesThe power of celebrating student achievement

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode of Patio Pondering, host Jim Smith, Ph.D., a swine nutritionist and farmer from Northeast Indiana, digs into the agronomic and personal lessons behind uneven corn emergence in the 2025 growing season. Drawing from his own no-till, cover-cropped fields, Jim discusses how planter setup, sidewall compaction, and low oxygen conditions caused by saturated soils all play a role in delayed or inconsistent emergence.If you’re evaluating emergence issues, troubleshooting planter performance, or wondering how excess rainfall and waterlogged soils affect early plant growth, this episode blends field-level insight with big-picture perspective.👉 Topics Covered:2025 corn emergence variabilityDiagnosing sidewall compaction and oxygen-limited soilsImpacts of no-till, cover crops, and planter setupHow saturated conditions hinder root developmentPour a cup of coffee, take a seat on the patio, and join Jim for a grounded look at emergence, compaction, and the conversations we all need to have—on and off the farm.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a swine industry veteran opens up about the real cost of leadership, sobriety, and finding purpose after decades in feed sales?In this powerful episode of Patio Ponderings, Jim Smith sits down with Mark Johnson, a retired feed and livestock professional from Britt, Iowa, whose career spanned decades in swine nutrition, sales leadership, and industry transformation.Together, they explore:The early days of grinding ear corn and mixing bags at his father’s feed millThe collapse of the 1980s farm economy and how it took down the family businessSurviving the 1998 swine crash, the shift to integrated systems, and the fading loyalty in feed salesThe emotional trauma of COVID-19 in agriculture — including the mass euthanasia of pigsSobriety, the loss of two marriages, and finding Christ at age 60The urgent need for real male friendships, mental health support, and mentorship in agricultureMark’s story is a reflection of the challenges too many professionals in the livestock and feed industry carry silently. This isn’t just about pigs and profit margins — it’s about identity, purpose, and healing.📌 Whether you’re a swine nutritionist, feed sales rep, livestock producer, or simply someone who’s ever felt like you’ve given too much to your job — this episode is for you.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Patio Pondering, host Jim Smith, Ph.D., sits down with writer and farmwife Jen Campbell to tackle a topic close to every ag communicator’s heart — and frustration: the double-edged sword of “Tell your story.”From her Indiana farm to the far reaches of the internet, Jen has shared honest snapshots of real farm life — the beautiful, the messy, and sometimes, the controversial. Together, Jen and Jim explore when telling your story builds trust and when it invites criticism you never saw coming.Their candid conversation touches on:The pressure to protect the image of agriculture while staying truthfulStories Jen shared that sparked unexpected backlashHow to navigate online judgment — especially from fellow farmersAdvice for farmers and ranchers wanting to open up without regretRethinking the “tell your story” mantra for the next generationWhether you’re an advocate, a storyteller, or someone simply trying to connect the farm gate to the consumer’s plate, this episode offers an unfiltered look at the power — and pitfalls — of authentic storytelling.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Patio Pondering, host Jim Smith, Ph.D., sits down with Kaylee Keppy-McDonnell to explore the themes that have defined her journey through agriculture: communication, boundaries, and foundational values.From her roots on an Eastern Iowa farm to her new role as Director of Retail at United Animal Health, Kaylee shares how livestock judging, strong mentors, and a passion for swine production shaped her path. The conversation ranges from navigating the early-career pressure to prove yourself, to setting healthy boundaries as a working mom, to the lessons learned through networking and community.Kaylee and Jim also dive into:The reality of career pivots and blank canvasesOrganizing the “Elevate Women in Ag” event at World Pork ExpoThe nuanced differences—and overlap—between show pigs and commercial swineRaising strong kids through agriculture, whether in the barn or in the boardroomWhether you're a young professional building your career, a parent balancing life and livestock, or someone reflecting on the deeper purpose of ag life, this conversation offers grounded insight with honesty and heart.

Send us Fan Mail“AT Amber would not be AT Amber if she had not been Miss Allen County.”In this episode of Patio Ponderings, host Jim Smith, Ph.D. sits down with Amber Hoopengardner to explore her journey of reinvention after a career setback in agriculture. From her early days in 4-H and FFA to her lifelong passion for horse showing, Amber opens up about the personal and professional chapters that shaped her—including her termination from The Andersons and her transition into a new career at Howard Bailey Financial.Amber shares what she calls the emergence of “AT Amber,” a version of herself that is more intentional, reflective, and focused on meaningful mentorship. We talk about her work mentoring contestants in the Miss Allen County Scholarship Pageant and how being Miss Allen County helped shape her voice and purpose.We also explore the importance of mentorship and professional networks in agriculture and finance, and how Amber’s Fair Folk Family continues to support her personal growth. She even adds humor and insight with references to TikTok creators like tr_jones7 and justajacksonthing during our “Five Questions” segment.Whether you're navigating change, mentoring others, or rediscovering your purpose, this episode is a powerful reminder that connection is often the bridge to resilience.

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of Patio Pondering, I’m joined by Tracey Snider, an agricultural leader whose career path has taken her from life on the Ranch to helping farmers and food companies connect more meaningfully with innovation and opportunity.Tracey shares how her early experiences raising livestock and working the land sparked a passion for communication, sustainability, and farmer-first solutions. We dive into her critical leadership role during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she helped farmers and partners stay informed and connected during one of the most turbulent periods in modern agriculture.Our conversation also winds through some surprising places: boutique ice cream flavors, the economics of “bougie” backyard chickens, Tracey’s adventures in Ag and Consumer marketing, and how life experiences outside the traditional ag path shaped her leadership approach.We explore the growing role of AI in agriculture and communication, featuring insights from thought leaders like Vance Crowe, and reflect on how technology can either bridge or widen the gap between farmers and the public if we're not careful. In one of our most thought-provoking moments, we discuss how history—and agriculture—might have been different if pioneers like George Washington Carver had lived and worked in a post–civil rights world.We close the episode by diving into something deeply important: the need to reinvigorate mentorship in agriculture, passing along not just knowledge, but wisdom, encouragement, and resilience to the next generation.Of course, we round out the episode with our Five Signature Questions, where Tracey shares her favorite ag innovations, her dream coffee date from ag history, and the small changes she believes could spark big ripples across the future of food and farming.Whether you're deep in agriculture, raising a backyard flock, exploring new food trends, or just enjoy a thoughtful conversation with a few quirky twists, this episode will leave you with plenty to ponder—and maybe even a second helping of ice cream.

Send us Fan MailIn this special episode of Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim shares his personal story of overcoming career loss, finding new purpose, and building a new life after a job setback — all recorded from the patio where it began.Reflecting on the end of Holy Week and the passing of Pope Francis, Jim explores how quiet moments of solitude helped him navigate the aftermath of losing his 12-year career in swine nutrition.  He shares how starting Patio Ponderings became a path toward personal growth, writing, podcasting, and even publishing an essay in a local newspaper.Jim also discusses the surprising role artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT played in enhancing his writing process, helping him "riff" like a jazz musician to find his authentic voice.Whether you're navigating your own career transition, starting over, or searching for inspiration after life's unexpected turns, this episode offers hope, reflection, and a reminder that sometimes all you need is a quiet place to begin again.Thanks for joining us on the patio. Until next time, keep pondering.

Send us Fan MailKaren Corrigan joins Patio Ponderings to talk agronomy, opportunity, and saying "yes" to success—plus a few laughs with friends along the way.In this episode of Patio Ponderings, Jim Smith sits down with Karen Corrigan, Certified Crop Adviser, educator, and co-owner of McGillicuddy Corrigan Agronomics. Karen shares her journey from Illinois farm country to becoming one of the clearest and most practical voices in independent agronomy today.We dig into why getting the basics right—like managing soil pH and real weed control—is more important than chasing shiny new solutions. Karen offers straight talk about balancing science and intuition, the communication gaps she sees in modern agriculture, and how working independently has shaped her perspective.Karen also shares how her willingness to say "yes" to opportunities—both big and small—has played a key role in her success, much like Corey Hillebo described during Episode 24. It's a powerful reminder of how openness can shape a career in unexpected and rewarding ways.Along the way, we also bring up several mutual friends and colleagues who have impacted our journeys, including Corey Hillebo, Paul Butler, Angie Setzer, Jen Campbell, and the Hippie Farmer. Their names come up naturally as we reflect on the importance of community, authenticity, and shared experience in agriculture.Stick around to hear Karen tackle our signature five questions, where she shares personal lessons, favorite tools, and what gives her hope for the future of farming.Connect with Karen: Follow her on Twitter @weedgirl24 and learn more about her consulting work at McGillicuddy Corrigan Agronomics.Subscribe and Share: If you enjoyed today’s conversation, be sure to subscribe to Patio Ponderings, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who appreciates honest, practical conversations about agriculture and life.

Send us Fan Mail In this solo episode of Patio Pondering, I explore the increasingly urgent topic of farmland preservation and rural land use through the lens of personal experience and regional change.Sparked by a conversation on The Little Red Barn Podcast, I reflect on the silent erosion of farm ground in northeast Indiana—not by massive developments, but by smaller projects: executive housing estates, solar farms, and hobby farmettes that chip away at our agricultural heritage acre by acre.As a multi-generational farmer and landowner in DeKalb County, I wrestle with the delicate balance between private property rights and community impact. Can we really claim we’re protecting agriculture if we stay silent while 10-acre developments replace row crops? What are we risking when we pave over prime soil?From zoning board decisions to nostalgic memories of the family farm, this episode dives into the heart of the farmland debate. It’s a conversation about stewardship, sustainability, and asking the hard questions:When should farmland be preserved?Who decides what’s worth saving?And what legacy do we leave behind?

Send us Fan MailEpisode Description (Final Version): In this episode of Patio Pondering, we sit down with Amanda Minton, Manager of Reproductive Solutions at AcuFast Swine Genetics and Purdue University alum, to explore the journey from rural farm kid to leading expert in swine breeding and reproduction.Amanda shares how her agricultural roots and mentorship from Dr. Alan Schinckel laid the foundation for her career in swine genetics, from graduate research to cutting-edge work with AI-driven fertility tools. We dive deep into how failure and setbacks—both in the lab and in life—have shaped her leadership style, built resilience, and strengthened her ability to guide others.In a candid discussion about grit, resilience, and leading with empathy, Amanda reflects on how the book The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday has influenced her perspective, reinforcing the idea that the path to success often runs straight through adversity.Whether you're a swine professional, ag student, or someone navigating your own challenges, this conversation blends science, humanity, and hope—with practical takeaways for building stronger teams and finding purpose in persistence.Tune in to hear how Amanda Minton turns failure into fuel—and how her journey from sheep to pigs shaped the leader she is today.