Ask a Farmer

With increases in food costs in recent years and the desire to eat healthier, canning foods to preserve them is a topic of interest for Canadians. People want to understand what is in the food they eat and where their food comes from. This podcast explores the topic of canning and the safety and science behind it as well as best practices for making canning at home a safe and successful experience. Connor Flynn and Martha Rogers, both Certified Master Food Preservers, provide their input to help develop knowledge, skills and confidence to safely preserve foods at home. Host Clinton Monchuk Clinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.  In 2016, Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.  Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, are active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma. Guest: Chef Connor FlynnConnor Flynn is a Red Seal-endorsed chef and experienced High School Educator. His culinary journey has led him to explore various roles, including cheesemaker, bread baker, and most recently, a Certified Master Food Preserver (Cornell), showcasing his passion for food preservation. With over twenty years of experience in the food industry, Connor's deep love for educating others about food is the driving force behind his career. Guest: Dr. Martha RogersDr. Martha Rogers is a retired university professor in Health with a lengthy career as researcher, teacher, and academic leader. In 2018 she became one of Canada’s few Certified Master Food Preservers (Cornell) pursuing a lifelong passion for food preservation. She is committed to helping people develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to safely preserve food at home. She has designed and facilitated many food preservation workshops, is author of a bi-weekly newspaper column called “Worth Preserving”, and owner of The Valley Preservery in Kimberley Ontario. Resources:Fresh preservingBernardinNational Centre for Home Food PreservationHealthy CanningUniversity of Georgia Extension, So Easy to Preserve Episode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Canadians have continued to move further and further away from food production. We can see this in our expanding urban centers and less individuals growing the food we consume. This has led to more discussions about consuming food that is more sustainable. Not only sustainable environmentally, but also economically and socially. The Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) at the University of Saskatchewan, was tasked in 2022 with understanding agriculture’s contributions to improved sustainable outcomes. As a part of this, GIFS has examined the carbon footprint of agricultural production in Saskatchewan and Canada and compared that to other producers across the globe. Dr. Steve Webb, who is the CEO of the Global Institute for Food Security in Saskatoon SK walks through how we’re doing growing cereals, pulses and oilseeds based on the latest research. Host: Clinton Monchuk  Clinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.   In 2016, Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.   Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, are active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: Dr. Steven WebbSteven joined the Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) as Chief Executive Officer in 2019, following a 23-year career with Corteva Agriscience (formerly Dow AgroSciences) in Indiana, United States. His most recent role at Corteva was Research and Development Director of External Technology, where he led many research collaborations with private sector companies, research institutes and universities around the world. Steven earned a PhD in immunochemistry (1998), a Master’s degree in biochemistry (1992) and a Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology (1990) from the University of Guelph, Ontario.   About the Global Institute for Food Security  The Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) works with partners to discover, develop and deliver innovative solutions for the production of globally sustainable food. Founded by Nutrien, the Government of Saskatchewan and the University of Saskatchewan (USask), GIFS is agriculture’s innovation catalyst, connecting the agri-food ecosystem, advancing innovation and bridging the gap to commercialization to deliver resilient and sustainable food security for all stakeholders. Learn more about GIFS at gifs.caResources:GIFS Carbon Life Cycle AnalysisHow Carbon Farming is Helping Fight Climate ChangeHow is Wheat Grown in Canada?Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein. In Canada, when we go to the grocery store there are so many different egg options available. We get a choice when it comes to egg size, egg colour, eggs based on different housing system, certified organic eggs, eggs enriched with Omega 3 or enriched with Vitamin D. In today's podcast, we will break down the different options available and talk about egg nutrition with Registered Dietitian Rosie Schwartz.  Host: Clinton Monchuk  Clinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy. In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.  Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma. Guest: Rosie SchwartzRosie Schwartz is a consulting dietitian and an award-winning nutrition writer and author. Both in her private nutrition counseling practice and her extensive work with the media, translating the science of nutrition into healthy and delicious fare has been her focus. Her quest is to help Canadians become enlightened eaters by focusing on what they should eat, not what they should cut out.Resources:Egg options at the grocery storeProtein for BreakfastProtein on your plateEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

There is a widening disconnect between those who grow food and those who consume food in Canada. To better communicate to Canadians, we must understand what their perceptions are of the food industry. Each year the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity performs a country wide survey to get a gauge on what Canadian consumers think about our food system and farming in general. Ashley Bruner from the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity has been part of this survey for year and will give us insight into what Canadians think. Host: Clinton Monchuk  Clinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy. In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers. Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma. Guest Ashley BrunerAs the Research Manager at the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity, Ashley specializes in communicating public opinion research to the food system. Ashley translates numbers and trends over time into actionable insights to help Canada’s food system better connect with everyday Canadians on the issues they care about. With an eye for detail and passion for the food system, Ashley tells the story behind every data point. Ashley holds a Master of Public Policy degree from Simon Fraser University and has over ten years of research, presentation, and policy experience. Before joining CCFI, Ashley worked as a senior research manager at Ipsos Public Affairs working on hundreds of research projects for clients in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Ashley has experience with a wide range of research methodologies ranging from online, telephone, focus groups, in-depth interviews, and town halls. The long-term success and growth of Canada’s food system must be grounded in public trust. Over the past years with CCFI, Ashley has helped food system stakeholders understand and build trust with Canadians on key food system both big and small. Resources:Canadian Centre For Food IntegrityWhy do food prices keep going upHow consumers are changing the grocery landscapeHow to spot nutrition misinformation onlineEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

The agriculture industry is not dissimilar from other industries in Canada.  We produce many different products but through the production of food, there is often some form of inorganic waste that is generated. To protect the environment and manage different aspects of primary production, we currently use plastics, and lots of them. Barry Friesen is the Executive Director of Cleanfarms who provides solutions to some of these challenges and how this is improving the environmental sustainability of agriculture in Canada. Guest Barry FriesenBarry Friesen is Executive Director of Cleanfarms Inc., a national producer responsibility organization operating coast to coast in Canada. In Quebec, Cleanfarms is known as AgriRÉCUP.   Barry is a Professional Engineer who has been deeply involved in solid waste issues since 1995, first as a government regulator for waste, a municipal waste operator servicing a half million residents and, since inception in 2010, running Cleanfarms Canada. His range of expertise is in demand at international meetings such as the OECD Conference on Rural Development, the Conference on Canadian Stewardship, Agricultural Film Americas and other circular economy and policy conferences.   Barry currently serves as Chair of the Conference on Canadian Stewardship and as a member of the AGRI plastics working group of the European Association of Plastics Recycling and Recovery Organizations. A recipient of Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee Medal, Barry is the past chair of the Board of the Compost Council of Canada, past Board member of the Recycling Council of Ontario, past Board member of the Alberta Plastic Recycling Association, past Chair of the National Task Force on Packaging and past Board member and recent recipient of a Paul Harris award from the Etobicoke Rotary Club. Host Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy. In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers. Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma. Resources:Recycling on the FarmWhat is UpcyclingCarbon FarmingCanadian Farmers Help Feed the WorldEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela LarsoConnect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

 We truly are lucky here in Canada to enjoy many different food choices for our diets. Questions do arise on different proteins we consume: how much is enough, what do we need and are plant and animal-based proteins the same? Long-time dietitian and mother, Carol Harrison, answers these questions through a fun and meaningful dialogue about how meat protein is structured differently than plant protein.  She also includes some tips on how to extend your meat budget a bit more.  Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy. In 2016, Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers. Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active  partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: Carol HarrisonCarol Harrison is a registered dietitian who loves to focus on helping Canadians put nutrition into practice in the kitchen. Carol is mom to three awesome kids. She’s a Toronto-based food and nutrition communications consultant and says she pretty much spends all day reading, writing, cooking or eating food—this is probably why her dog is always by her side! Carol is excited to share insights from her 20-year journey combining her interests in agriculture, food and nutrition. You can follow Carol on IG @CarolHarrison.RD Resources:How exercise and diet help prevent muscle lossIron DeficiencyWhat is food synergy?Free Learn To Cook CoursesEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

As more and more Canadians become removed from farms and ranches, many people have questions about how animals are being raised on Canadian farms. Tiffany Martinka is active on social media and has made a point of sharing how their family farm takes care of their chickens. In this podcast, Tiffany explains the audited programs that all Canadian farmers must follow and describes how this system of raising chickens is unique in a global setting.  Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy. In 2016, Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers. Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active  partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: Tiffany MartinkaTiffany Martinka and her family operate a grain and broiler chicken farm in northeast Saskatchewan. Tiffany grew up with grain and cattle, earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture and worked in the industry for 10 years before focusing full-time on her family and their own farm. Tiffany was selected as one of five young farmers across Canada to participate in Chicken Farmers of Canada Young Farmer Program which has presented many unique opportunities to learn and grow as a farmer in Canada’s chicken industry. She received the Farm & Food Care Champion Award in 2020 for her efforts to engage consumers and build trust in agriculture.  Tiffany feels it’s important to reach consumers to talk about how food is produced. “As the years go by, we are losing the connection to our food and how it’s grown. People no longer have family to visit on the farm.” Resources:Article: Chicken Farm takes it Full Circleyoutube: virtual chicken barn tourEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson and Michael Jordon, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Since Covid, we have seen dramatic increases in the price of our food. Every family is feeling the pinch at the grocery store. John Scott has spent his entire career analyzing food prices, grocery changes and consumer trends. He will explain what has led to the current situation and what to expect at the grocery store in the future. Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy. In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers. Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active  partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: John F.T. ScottJohn F.T. Scott is an economist specializing in the food distribution and retail sector. He is the former CEO of Canada’s largest retail grocery association (Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers), a position he held for 23 years.  John is the author of the itinerant publication “Perspectives on the Canadian Retail Food Industry” which encapsulates his thoughts on the issues, people and events shaping the industry. He is past chair of the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute and served on the Board of Governors of Niagara College. He is Past Chair of the acclaimed Vineland Research and Innovation Centre. He is has served as an advisor to a diverse group of organizations, including Monaghan Mushrooms, Platform Genetics, Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency and Markham Stouffville Hospital. He holds the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors. John is one of only three individuals who have received both of the highest recognitions in Canada’s retail food industry, the Golden Pencil and the Spirit of the Independent Award. He currently analyzes strategies, writes and speaks on Canada’s food industry. Resources:Why do food prices keep going up?How consumers are changing the grocery landscapeEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Erin MacGregor is a registered dietitian and passionate food and science communicator.  Based on Erin’s experience and education in the food industry she will help us understand what we can look for as we read food-related information and make better purchasing decisions. Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: Erin MacGregor Erin MacGregor is a registered dietitian and passionate food and science communicator.  With over 15 years of multimedia experience, Erin has become an advocate for honest and transparent communication about the Canadian food system. She has built a reputation for creating on-trend food and nutrition content that is both relatable and meticulously researched - for any audience.  Erin is the co-founder of How to Eat, a food and nutrition communications business and award winning blog, that inspires Canadians to enjoy food and cooking to the fullest. She is also an experienced clinical dietitian in the hospital setting, expertly translating the latest clinical research into common sense nutrition advice for a wide range of patients.  These days, Erin is most passionate about writing and speaking on topics including misinformation in the media, agriculture, biotechnology, and food marketing, with the goal of helping Canadians understand where their food comes, so they can make food choices based on facts, not fear. Resources:article: How to spot nutrition misinformation onlinearticle: what does non-gmo on a food label mean?article: What does all natural on a food label mean?article: what does organic on a food label mean?Episode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson and Michael Jordan, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Researcher and author Timothy Caulfield explains why there is a fear of food in today’s society. He points out how important it is to reflect on information before passing it on and think about the body of evidence rather than the attention-grabbing headlines.  Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: Timothy CaulfieldTimothy Caulfield is a Canada Research Chair in Health Law and Policy, a Professor in the Faculty of Law and the School of Public Health, and Research Director of the Health Law Institute at the University of Alberta. His interdisciplinary research on topics like stem cells, genetics, research ethics, the public representations of science, and public health policy has allowed him to publish over 350 academic articles. He has won numerous academic, science communication, and writing awards, and is a Member of the Order Canada and a Fellow of both the Royal Society of Canada and the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences. He contributes frequently to the popular press and is the author of two national bestsellers: The Cure for Everything: Untangling the Twisted Messages about Health, Fitness and Happiness (Penguin 2012) and Is Gwyneth Paltrow Wrong About Everything?: When Celebrity Culture and Science Clash (Penguin 2015). His most recent book is Relax, Dammit!: A User’s Guide to the Age of Anxiety (Penguin Random House, 2020). Caulfield is also the co-founder of the science engagement initiative #ScienceUpFirst and was the host and co-producer of the award-winning documentary TV show, A User’s Guide to Cheating Death, which has been shown in over 60 countries, including streaming on Netflix in North America.Resources:Timothy Caulfield BooksArticle: Understanding Confusing Words on Food PackagesArticle: What Does Non-GMO on a Food Label Mean?Episode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Ian Affleck discusses how science has played a pivotal role in ensuring Canadians have safe, affordable and abundant food.  The advancements in plant breeding to gene editing have ensured Canadian farmers can use modern technology in an effort to be more environmentally friendly and produce the food the world needs. Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: Ian AffleckIan Affleck is the vice-president of plant biotechnology for CropLife Canada. In this role, Affleck works with domestic and international agricultural stakeholders and governments on the development of policies, regulations, and science related to plant biotechnology.  Prior to joining CropLife Canada, Affleck worked at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for 10 years. His work there focused on the regulation of novel plants and new varieties.  Affleck holds a bachelor of science in agriculture from the Nova Scotia Agricultural College, concentrating on agronomy and pest management. He also holds a master’s degree in agriculture from the University of Guelph, specializing in horticulture and plant breeding.    Affleck has been involved in agriculture from an early age, having grown up on a potato farm in Bedeque, Prince Edward Island.  Resources:PlantsThat Defend ThemselvesGrowing Better CropsWhat is Gene EditingEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson and Michael Jordan, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Soil health is essential to the prosperity of feeding a growing global population.  Jake Leguee, a Saskatchewan grain farmer, explains how farmers have adopted new technologies over the past generations, increasingly focusing on what soils need to produce food that feeds the world.   Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: Jake LegueeJake is a third generation farmer from Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Canada, where he, along with several family members, grows durum, canola, wheat, lentils, peas, and flax. Jake is married and he and his wife have three young sons. Passionate about advocating for the agricultural industry, Jake writes regularly in his popular blog, A Year in the Life of a Farmer, and has been a speaker at several events.  Jake currently serves as a director and vice-chair of the Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission and as chair of the Canadian Wheat Research Coalition. He has travelled to several countries promoting Canadian durum, speaking as a farmer representative. He is also a member of Bayer’s global Farmers Who SUSTAIN advisory council and is a member of the Global Farmer Network. Jake is optimistic about the future of the agricultural industry and believes its future is very bright. ResourcesWhat is soil? More than just dirtHealthy soil for today and the futureHow do farmers protect the soilProtecting biodiversity: Environmental farm plansEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson and Michael Jordan, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

In this podcast Patricia Chuey will outline six healthy eating truths that you can adopt in your own life.  They include overall health, veggies and fruits in your diet, purchasing quality products, ensuring your or someone in your household is cooking, avoid fad diets and remember that healthy aging is possible! Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: Patricia Chuey, MSc, FDC Food and Nutrition Communications ExpertPatricia has spent the last 3 decades immersed in consumer food and nutrition issues through various roles including nutrition counselor, sports nutritionist, manager of nutrition affairs for a major grocery retailer, media spokesperson, recipe developer and food product inventor. An author of 6 books, she is an engaging keynote speaker and mentor who provides context on what matters most in eating well and living a healthy life. An Alumni of Influence from the University of Saskatchewan, she has also received the Ryley-Jeffs Memorial Award, the highest honour given to a Canadian dietitian. Follow her on Instagram @PatriciaChuey or visit her website at: www.patriciachuey.com Resources:Article: Six Healthy Eating TruthsFree cooking coursesEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson and Michael Jordan, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

New technologies and innovation are pivotal to ensuring that the farms remain sustainable now and into the future.  In this podcast Andrew Campbell, aka Fresh Air Farmer, describes the new dairy barn his family built.  Andrew discusses how the new technologies have resulted in more cow comfort and less energy use. Host: Clinton Monchuk Clinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelor's of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy. In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers. Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma Guest: Andrew CampbellAndrew Campbell is a farmer, award winning communicator & passionate farm advocate. With the farm, he and his family milk cows as well as grow corn, soybeans, wheat & hay in Southern Ontario’s Middlesex County. On top of farming, Andrew has become a familiar voice for farmers and agriculture issues in the mainstream media, conference halls & online, pushing the positive stories that farmers across Canada have to share with their non-farming neighbours. He’s received awards that have named in a Leader in Innovation, Champion, Game-Changer & Top Agriculture Influencer for his work through written word, photographs, videos and podcasts. Resources:Andrew Campbell's BarnArticles by Andrew CampbellEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Trying to make sense of Canada’s Food Guide and how to implement some of their recommendations?  We had questions too and sought the expertise of Sue Mah, a registered dietitian from the Toronto area.  Sue will walk through seven different, easy to implement tips, that will allow each of us can eat better and live a healthier life. Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in OklahomaGuest: Sue Mah, MHSc, RD, PHEc, FDCFounder & President, Nutrition Solutions Inc. Sue@NutritionSolutions.caInstagram / Twitter / TikTok / YouTube: @SueMahRD Sue is a multiple award-winning registered dietitian, TV personality and daughter of a chef. With a natural passion for delicious, wholesome food, Sue shares sensible advice to inspire Canadians to eat well and live well. She has appeared in over 500 media features, 12 TV commercials and 35 TV shows including Breakfast Television, CTV Your Morning, and CBC National News. As the Founder and President of the consulting agency Nutrition Solutions, Sue partners with agricultural commodities, food industry, government and health associations to translate nutrition trends and science into strategic communications. She is currently a writer for Canadian Food Focus. Sue is a Fellow of Dietitians of Canada and the 2019 recipient of the C.P. Shah Award for Excellence in Public Health. Her outstanding work in dietetics was honoured with an Award for Innovation, and she was named the 2017 Dietitian of the Year by the Dietitians of Canada Business and Industry Network.  Resources:Article: 7 ways to eat better every dayApplying dietary guidelinesEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Consumers often wonder what is being done to ensure cattle are raised sustainably and humanely. Rancher Erika Stewart explains the audited Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) program for Canadian cattle producers.  The program focuses on three main practices: animal care, food safety and environmental stewardship to demonstrate to consumers the level of care that goes into producing beef.  Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in OklahomaGuest: Erika StewartErika Stewart alongside her husband Cyle and their three daughters ranch in Morse SK. They have a commercial cattle operation and also grass yearlings. The Stewarts are passionate about the grasslands they are fortunate enough to call home and are always trying to learn and improve their management practices on the ranch.  Erika is also the provincial coordinator for the VBP+ program in Saskatchewan. She is the first point of contact for producers in Saskatchewan to call and gain information about VBP+ and beef sustainability in Canada. Erika is also very passionate about ag-vocacy and sharing the beef industry's story with consumers. Resources:Life at Pine Ranch, Season 1VBP+ programCanadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB)Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC)CCFI researchEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

This podcast walks through different ways that you can make the most of your food budget in times of inflationary pressures.  Shannon Crocker provides helpful hints that will allow you to be a sharper shopper, while also providing the nutrition you need for your family. Host: Clinton MonchukClinton Monchuk grew up on a mixed dairy, beef and grain family farm outside of Lanigan, Saskatchewan. He received his Bachelors of Science in Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and Masters of Business Administration in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. Clinton has enjoyed numerous roles across Canada, the United States and Mexico as a researcher, educator, manager, economist and director of trade policy.In 2016 Clinton accepted the role of Executive Director with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to promote farming and ranching to consumers. Clinton understands the value of increasing public trust in agriculture and actively promotes engagement between the agriculture industry and consumers.Clinton, Laura and their children Jackson and Katelyn, continue to be active partners on their family grain and layer farm in Saskatchewan and cattle ranch in Oklahoma.Guest: Shannon Crocker MSC RD PHEc Shannon Crocker is a food-loving registered dietitian and professional home economist with over 25 years of experience in nutrition communications.  As a skilled nutrition writer, enthusiastic media spokesperson and engaging presenter and facilitator she spends most of her days writing and talking about food and nutrition.  Shannon is sought after as an evidence-based strategist and content creator for farming and food industry clients and is the author of nutrition resources and dietitian training programs that are used across the country.  The kitchen is her happy place: she’s passionate about nutrition and food and how it has the potential to enhance life and connect you with others while fueling your body and mind. Resources: Article: Eat Well and Save Money Too!Article: How To Cook Once and Eat TwiceArticle: Ways to Shop Cook and Eat HealthyStats Canada-Consumer Price Index Episode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel Road Connect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter

Welcome to the Ask a Farmer Podcast hosted by Canadian farmer, Clinton Monchuk.  In this podcast Clinton will talk with food and farming experts to answer questions about how your food is grown and raised in Canada. Host: Clinton MonchukEpisode Credits: Research and writing by Dorothy Long and Penny Eaton, Produced and edited by Angela Larson, Music by Andy Ellison-Track title: Gravel RoadConnect with us: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube , emailSign up for our newsletter