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Farm4Profit Podcast
Farm4Profit Podcast
Author: David Whitaker, Corey Hillebo, Tanner Winterhof
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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.
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In 1956, Iowa farmer and inventor Arthur Luscombe built a rugged PTO-powered grinder mixer on his farm. That simple idea would become the foundation of Art’s Way Manufacturing — a company that has weathered decades of ag cycles, market volatility, and industry consolidation.
Today, Art’s Way employs approximately 120–150 people across facilities in Armstrong and Monona, Iowa, producing specialized agricultural equipment designed to fill niche operational needs.
In this anniversary episode, we explore:
🏗 Company History & Evolution
• How Art’s Way grew from a farm-built grinder mixer into a publicly traded manufacturer
• Why niche markets became their strategic advantage
• How independent dealer networks have remained central to their model
• What it takes to survive nearly 70 years in agriculture
🚜 Product Lines & Innovation
• Grinder mixers and feed processing equipment
• Bale processors and hay tools (Miller Pro & Badger acquisitions)
• Sugar beet harvesters and defoliators
• Manure spreaders, land graders, land planes
• Portable grain augers
• Combine and swather reels (Universal Harvester integration)
• Modular buildings division — a key stabilizer during ag downturns
• Tools and scientific divisions
We also talk about:
• How demand softness and inventory challenges have impacted equipment manufacturers
• Why modular building growth has helped balance agricultural equipment fluctuations
• The role of dealer strategy and committed niche-focused partners
Joining the conversation is Jim Cronk, Inside Sales Representative at Art’s Way.
Jim and his wife Shelby continue to farm a row crop and cow-calf operation while he works full-time in ag equipment sales — giving him firsthand insight into what today’s producers actually need.
This episode isn’t just about celebrating an anniversary.
It’s about resilience. It’s about specialization over scale. And it’s about what it takes to manufacture ag equipment in a world of consolidation, volatility, and rapid change.
Because sometimes the companies that last the longest are the ones that stay closest to the farmer.
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.
Most farmers think tax credits are for tech companies and laboratories.
They’re wrong.
The Research & Development tax credit has been around since 1981 — originally built to encourage innovation. Over the decades, it has become more taxpayer-friendly and more accessible… but still incredibly underutilized in agriculture.
In this episode, we talk with Onshore, a tax technology company founded in 2020.
Joining us:
• Tim Taschner – Midwest native who grew up around ADM, now leading agricultural R&D tax credit case studies
• Dominic Vitucci – CEO with a background in accounting and computer science, blending tax expertise with automation
We break down:
• What the R&D tax credit actually is
• The history behind it and how it evolved
• What qualifies in agriculture (farming, livestock, food processing)
• Why testing new hybrids, chemistries, feed strategies, or processes may qualify
• How AI now automates roughly 80% of the documentation process
• What “audit-ready documentation” actually means
• The difference between deductions and credits
• What happens if you haven’t paid taxes yet
• How credits can carry back or forward
• Why cost segregation and 179D deductions also matter
Onshore’s mission is simple:
Turn tax incentives from a confusing compliance burden into a strategic advantage.
Instead of spending weeks building documentation manually, their software integrates with enterprise systems, processes data quickly, and delivers clean, audit-ready support — including free audit defense.
In today’s tight-margin environment, producers and agribusinesses can’t afford to overlook legitimate credits.
If you operate:
• 800+ acres
• Livestock operations
• Food processing
• Agribusiness support companies
• Or any operation testing improvements
This conversation could directly impact your bottom line.
Because the smartest operators don’t just grow crops.
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.com
Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com
Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com
Call/Text: 515.207.9640
Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw
Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc
Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/
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.
Most farmers think tax credits are for tech companies and laboratories.
They’re wrong.
The Research & Development tax credit has been around since 1981 — originally built to encourage innovation. Over the decades, it has become more taxpayer-friendly and more accessible… but still incredibly underutilized in agriculture.
In this episode, we talk with Onshore, a tax technology company founded in 2020.
Joining us:
• Tim Taschner – Midwest native who grew up around ADM, now leading agricultural R&D tax credit case studies
• Dominic Vitucci – CEO with a background in accounting and computer science, blending tax expertise with automation
We break down:
• What the R&D tax credit actually is
• The history behind it and how it evolved
• What qualifies in agriculture (farming, livestock, food processing)
• Why testing new hybrids, chemistries, feed strategies, or processes may qualify
• How AI now automates roughly 80% of the documentation process
• What “audit-ready documentation” actually means
• The difference between deductions and credits
• What happens if you haven’t paid taxes yet
• How credits can carry back or forward
• Why cost segregation and 179D deductions also matter
Onshore’s mission is simple:
Turn tax incentives from a confusing compliance burden into a strategic advantage.
Instead of spending weeks building documentation manually, their software integrates with enterprise systems, processes data quickly, and delivers clean, audit-ready support — including free audit defense.
In today’s tight-margin environment, producers and agribusinesses can’t afford to overlook legitimate credits.
If you operate:
• 800+ acres
• Livestock operations
• Food processing
• Agribusiness support companies
• Or any operation testing improvements
This conversation could directly impact your bottom line.
Because the smartest operators don’t just grow crops.
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.
Bar 7 Ranch in Gatesville, Texas isn’t just a working cattle and sheep operation — it’s one of the most recognized ranch brands on the internet.But here’s the twist:Cody and Erika Archie didn’t grow up ranching.They’re first-generation ranchers who built their life from the ground up — raising beef cattle and Dorper sheep while raising their two kids, Kylee and Clancy, right alongside them.And then… one random TikTok changed everything.A single video launched them into viral fame, building an audience of millions across TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. What started as documenting real ranch life turned into a full-blown social media empire for agriculture education.In this episode, we unpack:• How two first-generation ranchers built Bar 7 from scratch• The viral moment that exploded their online following• What it’s really like running a ranch while running massive social channels• The business behind the brand — merch, direct beef sales, rental properties, spec homes, and Valet Cleaners & Laundry• How they balance content creation with real cattle work• Dealing with criticism, online hate, and even death threats• Why faith plays a central role in their ranch and family life• Their carnivore health journey and lifestyle choices• What modern ranching looks like in a digital-first worldThe Archies represent something bigger happening in agriculture:Old industries adapting to new platforms.Traditional ranch work meeting modern storytelling.And producers realizing that education, transparency, and personality matter more than ever.
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.
www.onshore.comIn this What’s Working in Ag segment, the Farm4Profit team tees up one of the most impactful conversations we’ve had all year: Research & Development tax credits for farmers.We sit down briefly with Dom and Tim from Onshore to explain—quickly and clearly—why this long-standing tax credit now applies to modern farming practices, not just labs and patents. From testing new hybrids and fertility programs to improving efficiency and yield, many farmers are already doing qualifying activities without realizing it.Here’s what’s at stake:A 2,000-acre corn and soybean operation could potentially unlock $100,000 or moreCredits can offset current taxes, refund taxes paid in the last four years, or carry forward up to 20 yearsUnlike deductions, tax credits are dollar-for-dollar—$100,000 is actually $100,000We break down:What “research and development” really means in farmingWhy this credit has become more farmer-friendly over timeThe difference between deductions and credits (and why it matters now)Who should be paying attention heading into 2026This episode is intentionally short and to the point—but it’s also a preview. The full, deep-dive conversation drops next week, and if you’re farming in today’s margin environment, it’s one you don’t want to skip.
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.
In this episode, we sit down with the team behind Performance Livestock Analytics, the creators of Performance Beef and Cattle Krush — two powerful tools designed to help feedlot and cow-calf producers move from reactive to proactive management.Founded in 2015 in Ames, Iowa, acquired by Zoetis in 2020, and then returning to independence in 2023, Performance Livestock Analytics has grown into a platform trusted by over 4,000 producers, managing more than 5 million head of cattle, with an incredible 96% retention rate.We break down:• What a true “Producer Ecosystem” looks like• Why relationships between producers, advisors, nutritionists, bankers, and partners matter more than ever• How digital feed management helps track rations, delivery, and inventory in real time• The importance of automatic cost-of-gain tracking — and why guessing can cost you thousands• Health and treatment logging that’s mobile and simple• Marketing tools that prepare you before buyers ever show up• Seamless integrations with Bluetooth scales, feed trucks, and QuickBooks• How Cattle Krush pulls real-time CBOT data to calculate live breakevens at auctionAnd we tackle the bigger picture:In today’s environment, profitability isn’t just about working harder — it’s about having better information.When your dashboard shows cost of gain, projected profit, market swings, and feed efficiency all in one place, decisions get clearer.
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.
In this episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast, we sit down with Tom Corcoran, better known online as Farming Sumbitch, a first-generation farmer from rural western New York who has built something truly special — both online and in real life.Tom shares the story behind the SUMBITCH Tractor Show (Some Unique Machines Brought In To Commemorate History), an annual August event hosted on his family’s farm that now draws visitors from across the U.S. — and even internationally. What began in 2018 as a small idea has grown into a show featuring 150+ tractors, tractor rides, hay rides, live music, food, and a mission much bigger than machinery.The show raises money to support the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, a cause close to Tom’s heart after his father-in-law battled the disease. In 2024 alone, the event raised over $40,000, proving that agriculture still has the power to bring people together for something bigger than itself.We also dive into:Tom’s journey as a first-generation farmer, starting independently in 2010What it’s really like farming corn, wheat, rye, black beans, and pumpkins in New YorkWhy old iron still matters — including shelling corn with a 3-row picker and running classic John Deere equipmentThe growth of his “The Way We Farm” YouTube channel and why showing real farming still resonatesHow social media helped connect a small farm to a global audienceWhy preserving ag history matters just as much as adopting new technologyThis episode is about more than tractors. It’s about honoring where agriculture came from, sharing real farm life, and using your platform — no matter how small it starts — to make a real impact.
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.
In an industry driven by razor-thin margins, volatile markets, and rising input costs, mid-market cattle producers often face a simple truth: expertise matters more than luck.In this episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast, we welcome Todd Drake, CEO of Balance4Ward — a company dedicated to helping cattle feeders break out of the “daily grind” and build intentional, profitable, and sustainable operations. Balance4Ward is built on decades of real-world cattle feeding experience and a mission to empower producers with both strategy and execution.Todd shares:Balance4Ward’s origin story — how hands-on cattle feeding experience led to solutions for mid-market feeders rather than generic advice.Why traditional cattle feeding models leave producers chasing short-term wins instead of building long-term strength.How the company developed Cattle Business Systems — a transparent, coaching-based approach where producers have access to expert guidance, custom planning, and monthly check-ins.What practical value advisory and coaching adds — from back office clarity to production decisions that preserve margins and unlock profit potential.Why Balance4Ward combines data, people, and experience into a system that lets feeders call the shots, rather than follow generic prescription models.The evolution of the company into feed delivery, ration formulation, onsite consulting, blended feed, and strategic coaching designed to help operations compete with the biggest players.Whether you’re an established feeder or a producer looking to scale smarter, Todd’s insights show why a systematic, coachable approach — not guesswork — is what it takes to thrive long-term.
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.
From copper wire and irrigation pumps to fencing and remote electrical systems, thieves are targeting farms more aggressively than ever — driven by rising metal prices and the reality that rural law enforcement is stretched thin.We dig into:Why agricultural crime is surging across the U.S.What thieves are stealing most — and why farms are uniquely vulnerableThe true cost of theft beyond scrap value (downtime, crop loss, repairs, and missed irrigation)Why traditional tools like trail cameras and motion lights often fail in remote areasHow new technology is shifting security from reactive to proactiveBobby also shares how real-time theft detection systems like COP-R-LOCK can pinpoint theft instantly, trigger on-site alarms, and provide alerts fast enough to actually stop criminals before the damage is done.With repair costs ranging from $20,000 to $90,000, this conversation is about more than stolen copper — it’s about protecting your farm’s productivity, infrastructure, and long-term resilience.
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.
In this episode of Farm4Profit, we sit down with Lance Weaver, a Texas native, former ag banker, and now business coach with Legacy Farmer, to talk about what really happens behind the scenes in agricultural lending — and what farmers need to understand to protect their operations.After earning degrees in Ag Business and Ag Economics and spending over a decade in ag finance, Lance reached a breaking point. Despite good intentions, he realized the system wasn’t built to serve farmers the way they thought it was.We dig into:The moment Lance said, “I can’t do this anymore as a banker”Why loan officers don’t always have your back in loan committee meetingsRed flags in both farm financials and bank relationshipsWhy balance sheets, cash flow, and production knowledge must alignThe danger of confusing bank renewals with actual profitabilityHow farmers can start thinking — and operating — like CEOs of multimillion-dollar businessesWhat Legacy Farmer does differently to help producers build clarity, structure, and long-term resilienceThis episode challenges farmers to take ownership of their numbers, their leadership role, and their future — because the bank will always protect its own interests, but your farm needs someone protecting yours.
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.
Nels farms corn and soybeans in Iowa, including seed beans for major companies, while running a diverse lineup of equipment and managing challenges like field fires, weather swings, and land access as a next-generation farmer. He shares what it was like returning to the family operation, starting on his own acres, and building a farm business one decision at a time.We also dive into:Why he started sharing farm life on social media in 2019How simple things like rain gauge updates connect farmers and non-farmers alikeWhat it’s like raising kids who actively help on the farmLessons learned from Iowa Corn’s I-LEAD program and international trade missionsWhy community involvement — fire department, PTO, Lions Club — still matters in rural AmericaThe reality of farming through tough seasons, including multiple field fires in one yearThis conversation is a reminder that farming isn’t just about acres and yields — it’s about people, perspective, and showing the real side of agriculture.
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.
In this What’s Working in Ag segment, we highlight a growing trend we’re seeing across agriculture heading into 2026: farmers investing in skills instead of opinions.Agris Academy is hosting a 2026 Winter Workshop on Merchandising and Futures Risk Management on February 19th in Baltic, South Dakota, with both in-person and online options available. What makes this workshop stand out is what it doesn’t promise.This session focuses on:Teaching real merchandising skills farmers can use immediatelySharing practical “tricks of the trade” from professional risk managersHelping producers build repeatable systems, not one-off tradesCreating skills that become a permanent asset to a farm or businessWhat it won’t do:Predict market directionPush trading strategiesReact to daily headlinesIn a year where volatility, tight margins, and uncertainty continue to dominate agriculture, farmers are realizing that better decisions come from better understanding — not better guesses.This short segment explains why educational workshops like this are gaining momentum, why farmers are choosing to attend in person, and how developing merchandising discipline can change how farms manage risk long-term.
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.
In this episode of Farm4Profit, we’re joined by Ken Ripley, AVP of Regional Sales for FMH’s Northwest region and a farmer himself in southern Minnesota. Ken brings decades of experience from both John Deere and crop insurance, helping producers understand how to build smarter protection strategies.We break down:The current financial environment farmers are facingHow crop insurance, FSA programs, and disaster relief work togetherWhat’s changed under the new USDA and RMA leadershipKey updates to ARC/PLC, base acres, reference prices, and SCO flexibilityNew and expanded area coverage options like ECO, SCO, and MCOEnhancements to the Beginning Farmer/Rancher programDisaster programs like SDRP Phase 2 and the new Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) programWhy precision data is becoming critical for reporting, claims, and auditsKen also shares practical advice for navigating these decisions without getting overwhelmed — including why working closely with a trusted crop insurance agent can help producers avoid missed opportunities.With so many changes heading into 2026, this episode helps farmers step back, understand the big picture, and make intentional decisions that protect profitability.
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.
This episode is a little different—and that’s exactly why you’ll want to listen.Sammy Smith is a Johnston, Iowa native who grew up racing on small tracks across the state before becoming one of the youngest drivers to win at NASCAR’s national level. Today, at just 21 years old, he’s competed across the ARCA Menards Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series, and the Truck Series, racing for some of the sport’s most respected teams.In this conversation, we dig into:Growing up just miles from the Farm4Profit studio and racing across IowaHow his dad and Iowa racing connections launched his motorsports careerWinning races before he was old enough to legally driveThe discipline required to balance school, training, and full-time racingHandling pressure, failure, and expectations at a young ageLessons racing teaches that apply directly to farming and businessEndurance, mindset, and why he ran a marathon in 2025Giving back through scholarships and community involvementWhat’s next in his racing careerWhile Sammy’s world looks different than farming, the themes are the same: discipline, consistency, risk management, preparation, and performance under pressure. This episode bridges agriculture and motorsports through mindset—and shows why success at the highest levels always comes back to fundamentals.
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.
Titan Immel doesn’t follow the traditional ag retail playbook—and that’s exactly why his businesses are growing.In this episode, we sit down with the founder of AgHub Midwest and Ten Percent Ag to unpack how a 17-year-old seed dealer turned into a diversified ag entrepreneur serving tens of thousands of acres across the Midwest.We dig into:How Titan started selling seed while still in high schoolWhy he stepped away from farming to build an ag services businessThe independent retailer model behind AgHub MidwestHow variable-rate prescriptions and precision tech drive value for farmersSelling farm chemicals shipped direct to the farm at just 10% over costScaling aerial application with helicopters and spray dronesThe hiring challenges in rural ag—and why character matters more than resumesUsing consultants to break growth plateaus and plan for 2.5x expansionBuilding multiple businesses simultaneously without losing focusThis episode is a real-world look at modern ag entrepreneurship, where technology, logistics, people, and margins all have to work together. Whether you’re a farmer, ag retailer, or someone thinking about starting something of your own, Titan’s story offers a blueprint for doing ag business differently—and sustainably.
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.
Grant and Spencer Hilbert didn’t grow up farming—but today they’re running a first-generation operation, raising crops, adding beef cattle, and building one of the most transparent ag creator platforms online.In this episode, we sit down with the brothers behind Hilbert Farms, The Squad, and the American Farming game to talk about:How YouTube income helped fund their first farmland purchaseWhat it’s like starting a farm without generational land or equipmentWhy they’re open about profits, failures, and financial realitiesHow content creation, gaming, and real farming now overlapLaunching beef production and partnering with Farmer GradeBuilding community through Discord and digital platformsAnd the idea behind forming a creator “dream team” to bring farmers early access to product reveals—before Commodity ClassicThis conversation isn’t just about social media or gaming. It’s about where agriculture is headed, how younger farmers and creators are influencing the industry, and how early access and transparency can bring real value back to producers.
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.
This What’s Working in Ag segment is brought to you by www.ambrook.com , we bring back Hannah Mann, CPA and ag-focused accountant, to answer the follow-up questions farmers had after our recent tax planning episode.This short, to-the-point conversation focuses on what’s actually working right now for producers who want better control of their numbers heading into 2026.Hannah shares:Why most farms struggle with knowing true profitability—even when yields look goodThe difference between reactive bookkeeping and proactive financial planningWhy January is the best time to reset farm records (not December)How forward-looking cash flow projections help with banker conversations and credit renewalsWhy tracking inventory, enterprises, and allocations matters more than everHow the best operators use simple systems to buy back time and peace of mindWhy clean, real-time numbers create better decisions when margins are tightThis episode isn’t about accounting theory or tax jargon. It’s about giving farmers clarity, confidence, and a system that helps them make better decisions—before it’s too late.
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.
Seed costs remain one of the largest line items on a farm’s balance sheet—but what if there was another way to think about genetics, pricing, and value?In this episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast, we sit down with Nate Belcher, a crop consultant, regenerative ag specialist, and longtime advocate for alternative ag business models. Nate shares his perspective on off-patent corn genetics, non-GMO seed options, and why more farmers are questioning the traditional seed system.We discuss:Nate’s background as a crop consultant and regenerative ag specialistWhy off-patent genetics are gaining traction with cost-conscious farmersHow non-GMO corn fits into modern cropping systemsThe economics behind seed pricing once royalties and licensing fees are removedWhy many smaller seed companies are moving toward proven, off-patent traitsAdvantages for farmers: lower costs, reduced financial risk, faster access to geneticsTrade-offs farmers should understand, including fewer trials and older geneticsHow direct-to-farm distribution works without dealers or regional repsWhether this model represents a niche option—or a broader shift in the seed industryThis conversation isn’t about selling seed—it’s about understanding the economics, the risks, and the opportunities farmers face as the seed industry continues to evolve.https://hybrid85.com/about-us
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.
In this Farm4Fun episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast, we’re joined by Cavin Malloy, an Eastern Iowa farmer from Williamsburg and the creator behind @stonecoldcavin. Known for his high-energy, wrestling-inspired persona and relatable day-in-the-life farm content, Cavin has built a loyal following by showing the real side of farming—with humor, honesty, and Midwest grit.We dig into:Where Cavin grew up and his family’s farming backgroundWhat his current farming operation looks like (row crops, cattle, equipment, and custom work)What he does differently than his neighbors—and whyHow the “StoneColdCavin” brand started and his first viral momentBalancing comedy with real farm educationWhat neighbors and locals think about his online presenceHis biggest farm pet peevesBest and worst purchases he’s made on the farmHow he prepares for rain days and “winter hours”ROI on automation and technology in a real-world farm settingCoaching youth wrestling and how that mindset carries over to farmingAnd what he’d be doing if farming and content creation weren’t the pathThis episode is part laughs, part real talk, and 100% authentic farm life—no filters, no fluff.
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.
In this Farm4Fun New Year’s episode, we officially introduce Cody Vanderholm, the newest hire at Farm4Profit and our Project and Digital Media Manager.Cody lives in Stanton, Iowa, and brings a unique mix of ag roots, technical experience, and creative talent to the Farm4Profit team. He grew up showing cattle, still helps run Vanderholm Cattle Company with his dad, and works closely with 4-H and FFA families selling Angus and Simmental breeding stock.Before joining Farm4Profit, Cody built a diverse career across agriculture, equipment, precision ag, and marketing—including roles with Titan Machinery, HTS Ag, AlffCo, and more—while also growing his own business, Vanderholm Media.In this episode, we cover:Cody’s farming background and cattle operationHow showing livestock shaped his path into agricultureHis journey through ag sales, precision ag, and equipment rolesHow Vanderholm Media got started and evolvedPhotography, drone work, tractor pulls, air shows, and light paintingHis passion for weather, travel, and capturing agriculture visuallyWhat excites him most about joining the Farm4Profit teamThis episode is part introduction, part behind-the-scenes, and part Farm4Fun—giving listeners a chance to get to know the person who’ll be helping shape the future of Farm4Profit content.Welcome to the team, Cody—and welcome to the New Year.
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.







