The Truth About Ag

This week on The Truth About Ag, we’re tackling the theme “Fear Sells—Who’s Buying?” Evan is joined by Todd Andries, repeat guest Dean Klippenstein, and U.S. farmer Rich Bronec for a wide-ranging roundtable on what’s really happening in agriculture as 2025 winds down.From land transitions and rental opportunities to rising fertilizer costs, shifting rotations, and the reality of cash flow crunches, the group dives into where the opportunities are even in a margin-tight environment. They cover long-term leases, machinery costs, lender expectations, and the growing importance of financial acumen on today’s farms.Whether you’re wrestling with operating loans, debating rent vs. buy decisions, or considering how to build a war chest for the next big expansion, this conversation is packed with practical insight. Tune in for honest talk, a few laughs, and a forward-looking perspective on how producers can find stability and growth in uncertain times.

In this episode, Evan and Kristjan welcome Leta LaRush, Vice President of Business Management for BASF Canada Agricultural Solutions. What follows is a conversation that weaves together agriculture, leadership, innovation, and the realities of life outside of work.Leta explains why it takes as long as twelve years to bring a new agricultural product to market, how regulation and red tape impact innovation, and what Canada needs to do to stay competitive. She talks about the importance of spending time in the combine each year, the debate between brands and generics, and the role trade barriers play in shaping the industry.The conversation also touches on the realities of building a career in agriculture. Leta discusses the choices she has made as a working parent, the value of equal parental leave, and why she has focused on roles that offer opportunities to learn and grow rather than just the ones with the most prestige. She shares the influence of mentors and executive coaches on her career and offers practical advice on leadership, scheduling, and professional development. 

Kristjan and Evan sit down with Jace Young, Founder and CEO of Legacy Farmer, to take a hard look at the financial side of agriculture and why it’s so often misunderstood.They talk about why so few people are giving farmers solid financial advice, and how easy it is to misread just how long the rope is when working with the bank. They share their perspective on a big industry problem: banks chasing new customers while letting existing ones drift without real, up-to-date support.The conversation goes well beyond banking. They get into succession planning, how and when to bring your kids into the profits, teaching respect versus fueling entitlement, and using tools like the equity calculator to put real numbers behind big decisions.From moving conversations off-farm to reshaping roles and building accountability charts, this episode is packed with ideas on how to improve communication, shift mindsets, and keep your business and your family moving in the right direction.

In this episode, Evan sits down with Dallas Simmonds of Raptor Enterprises for his second appearance on the podcast. This time, the conversation goes deeper.Dallas opens up about what it really means to find fulfilment after farming. He reflects on the coaching programs he's taken, the leadership skills he's built, and how his personal definition of success has shifted over time. Together, Evan and Dallas talk about the emotional toll of generational succession, the pressure to conform to old-school work expectations, and why guilt often follows those who step away from the family operation—even if it's for the right reasons.They explore the idea that less can be more, the mindset shift from a tired farmer to an energized leader, and how younger farmers are starting to prioritize their health and longevity. It’s a conversation about accountability - physical, mental, and business - and why doing the inner work matters more than ever in an industry that often hides it.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Evan and Kristjan are joined by two key leaders in Canadian agriculture - Justine Hendricks, CEO of FCC, and Darren Baccus, EVP of Agri-Food, Agribusiness Alliances and FCC Capital.The conversation is anchored in one of the most ambitious investment announcements in Canadian ag history: FCC Capital’s $2 billion commitment to accelerate innovation in agriculture and food. It’s about what this funding makes possible and how it’s already being deployed. In just 18 months, the team has already moved nearly $200 million into the sector.They discuss the strategy behind the announcement, how stakeholder voices helped shape the direction, and why it’s so important to bring new types of investors into ag. The conversation digs into the challenges of educating investors, the work it takes to de-risk innovation, and the unique complexity of building and running a modern farm business.Because while everyone agrees on the need to increase productivity, the root causes holding us back are more layered than they appear. And if we’re going to solve the big problems, we need bold investments, honest conversations and a shared understanding of what’s really at stake.

In this episode, Evan sits down with Kristjan and Jeff to talk about the lead-up to harvest, a time filled with anticipation, preparation, and pressure. They start by comparing planning the night before versus the morning of, and how that small difference can shape the tone of the entire day. The conversation quickly broadens into how harvest has evolved over the last decade, largely due to advances in technology. They get into how to train effectively, especially when every hour counts. They discuss the importance of knowing whether a breakdown is due to process or people, and how to set your team up for success when the stakes are high. As the season kicks into gear, they reflect on how to balance it all - equipment, timelines, decision-making, and family dynamics. The discussion also touches on team structure: why having a mix of personalities and skills matters, how divide and conquer plays out on the ground, and how leadership styles need to adapt. They explore what it would look like to have a non-family CEO on a family farm, and why the next generation might be better suited to strategy, while the older generation thrives in execution and operations.

In this episode, Evan sits down with Trent Klarenbach, Special Crops and Grain Marketing Analyst, to dig into one of the most emotionally charged and financially complex topics in agriculture: land. They unpack a century of Saskatchewan farmland values and debate whether a market correction is overdue. How farmers think, how they’ve evolved, and how the human desire to own land has stayed surprisingly constant, even as economics, policy, and risk have shifted dramatically over the decades.Trent shares insights from his latest blog and video, and they reflect on how land has always felt unaffordable, no matter the era. Evan and Trent talk about how today’s producers are increasingly making land decisions with a business-first mindset, examining fundamentals like rent vs. cost to own, investment return, and the strength of farm balance sheets.But even in this data-driven world, human psychology still plays a starring role. They explore what really motivates people to invest, what keeps farmland values climbing, and how history might offer a few warnings and a few lessons about what’s coming next. An interesting discussion from two different perspectives. 

Ben Voss has lived many lives in one: engineer, CEO, global ag-tech leader, and farmer. In this episode, he shares how his career has taken him around the world—everything from orange juice farms in Brazil to dairy operations in Europe—only to circle back to his roots in Saskatchewan. Now splitting his time between leading sales at Raven Industries and working on his family farm, Ben brings a rare perspective that blends international ag-tech with day-to-day farm realities.We get into how leadership styles shift between the boardroom and the farm, how equipment decisions reveal more than just financial strategy, and why the used equipment market is telling a new story in agriculture. Ben talks about equipment life cycles, succession plans, and the differences he sees between Canadian and U.S. farms—from buying habits to maintenance approaches.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, we’re joined by Todd Andries, newly minted Chief Operating Officer of Maverick Ag and a long-time leader in ag finance. With more than 25 years in the financial industry and roots in his family’s 2,600-acre farm, Todd brings a blend of boardroom insight and boots-on-the-ground understanding.We talk about what’s really happening in the farm equipment market, the role of personal tax and budgeting in strategic planning, and how fear and stress show up when you’re making big decisions. We share lessons from Strategic Coach, what it’s been like joining the Maverick and HGV teams, and how to navigate tough conversations with banks when the numbers don’t tell the full story.It’s a candid look at the mindset behind sustainable growth, one that’s honest about the risks, the pressure, and the personal side of business.Listen in for a wide-ranging conversation that blends finance, leadership, and a little Stanley Cup talk, too.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan are joined by Dr. Sylvain Charlebois, Senior Director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University and widely known as The Food Professor. They discuss the complex dynamics shaping Canadian agriculture—from the persistent misunderstandings about farmers and food production, to the political realities of how ag policy actually gets set.They talk about the pecking order in Ottawa, the gap between policy conversations and execution, and what’s holding Canada back when it comes to global competitiveness. Dr. Charlebois offers a candid perspective on growth, sustainability and shares his take on how Canadian agriculture can raise its profile on the world stage.The episode also takes a closer look at the controversial topic of supply management, unpacking the details and misconceptions surrounding the system. And as always, there’s a straight-up discussion about what’s changing in agriculture, what isn’t, and what myths need to be put to rest.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Evan and Kristjan sit down with Dustin Duncan, former Saskatchewan MLA and cabinet minister, to talk about what it’s really like behind the scenes of provincial politics. Elected at just 26 and serving under both Brad Wall and Scott Moe, Dustin reflects on nearly two decades in public service, shares his thoughts on the current government, and talks candidly about what he’ll miss as he transitions back to private life.They cover everything from dealing with Twitter/X comments to what it takes to lead in agriculture, and why more people—especially in the ag community—need to get involved. It’s an honest look at the intersection of politics, agriculture, and personal growth from someone who’s lived it.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Evan Shout sits down with Tyler McCann, Managing Director of the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI), for a candid conversation about the state of ag policy in Canada. They start with the role CAPI plays in shaping agri-food dialogue, including the value of its regular newsletter, before diving into the aftermath of Canada’s recent federal election.They examine how policies around capital gains, tax incentives, and trade disputes are shaped, not always by evidence or industry needs, but by shifting politics. The conversation also takes a critical look at Canada’s supply management system, comparing it to the U.S. model and asking hard questions about long-term competitiveness and economic resilience.For anyone trying to understand where Canadian agriculture policy is headed—and what’s getting in the way—this episode brings needed clarity.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Evan and Kristjan sit down with their first repeat guest, Dean Klippenstine, CPA, CA — a Partner and Business Advisor with MNP’s Agriculture team —  for a wide-ranging and candid conversation about the financial realities shaping Canadian agriculture today.They explore how national economic trends are influencing farm-level decisions, what the Canadian election could mean for fiscal policy, and why interprovincial trade barriers continue to hold producers back. They chat about the complexities of AgriStability and other risk management tools, questioning whether the current systems are doing enough, or doing too much, to support growth and resilience in the sector.From inflation and interest rates to farm finance, insurance, and real estate, this episode offers both big-picture insights and practical takeaways. If you're trying to make sense of your own numbers — or just want to understand where agriculture is headed — you won’t want to miss this one.

What are 417 farmers—each with operations generating over $1 million in revenue—thinking as they head into the 2025 crop year? In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Evan Shout and Kristjan Hebert sit down with Kent Fraser, VP at Stratus Ag Research, to unpack the results of a collaborative survey between the Hebert Group and Stratus. This episode is all about turning data into insight. Evan, Kristjan, and Kent dig into what producers are most concerned about, what they say the next generation truly needs, and how they feel about the direction of ag education. They tackle the evolving role of government spending, the rising importance of specialists and advisors, and what’s shifting in how top producers make decisions.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Evan Shout sits down with Shaun Haney, founder of Real Agriculture, to talk about the journey that took him from small-town Alberta to becoming one of the most trusted voices in Canadian ag media.Shaun opens up about his early days growing up in Picture Butte, how being more comfortable in the office than in the cab shaped his path, and why he believes talking about real issues in agriculture—not just headlines—matters more than ever. From starting out writing 15 columns a year to launching Real Ag, he shares business highs, regrets, and the hard-earned lessons behind building something meaningful.Tune in to hear why authenticity, strategy, and team dynamics matter more than ever in agriculture.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan sit down with Lisa Ashton, Agriculture Policy Lead on RBC’s Climate Action Institute Team, to dive into the big questions shaping Canadian agriculture.Lisa shares insights from RBC’s latest reports, including the Food First Report, breaking down why RBC is investing in this research and how they’re gathering ideas to drive success for Canada’s ag sector. We discuss Canada’s relationship with the U.S. and its position on the global stage, the challenges and policy implications shaping the future of agriculture, and the brain drain of ideas heading south. The conversation also explores investment and innovation, infrastructure gaps and opportunities, and how collaboration across natural resources can help strengthen the industry.From policy to productivity, this episode is all about what it will take for Canadian agriculture to not just compete—but lead.

In this engaging episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan explore agricultural investment with Ben Gordon, CEO and co-founder of Fractal Agriculture. Ben brings his expertise to a wide-ranging discussion on topics crucial for success in both Canadian and US farming sectors. We tackle risk management strategies, the optimal timing for investments, and the complexities surrounding agricultural real estate and maintaining robust cash flows.The conversation also covers essential elements like scaling operations, the impact of having dedicated and competent people, and the significance of strong collaboration in decision-making processes. This episode provides valuable perspectives for anyone involved in agriculture looking to navigate the intricacies of the industry.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan sit down with J.P. Gervais, Executive Vice President, Strategy & Impact, and Chief Economist at FCC (Farm Credit Canada), to break down the economic forces shaping the future of agriculture.  As someone who spends his days analyzing trade, policy, and market trends, J.P. brings a wealth of knowledge on how farmers and ag businesses can adapt, innovate, and thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.J.P., Kristjan, and Evan also tackle productivity and leadership, discussing how farm businesses can drive efficiency while balancing long-term growth. They explore how innovation and entrepreneurship are shaping the next generation of agriculture, from new technologies to evolving business models that challenge the status quo.  With policy changes constantly shifting the playing field, J.P. also shares insights into how regulatory decisions impact farm operations and what producers can do to stay informed and proactive. 

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan chat with Leah Olson, Vice President of Customer Experience and Operations at Brilliant Harvest Inc. With a background in agriculture and manufacturing, Leah has led companies through major transitions, turnarounds, and sustainable growth. They discuss how ag innovation has evolved from past generations to today, the role of AI in tackling inefficiencies, and how companies often jump to solutions before fully understanding the problem, highlighting the importance of a problem-first approach in ag tech. The conversation also explores how AI tools are shaping the industry, helping businesses optimize communication, streamline processes, and enhance decision-making. We get into the evolving relationship between manufacturers, dealers, and farmers, emphasizing the need for better connectivity and practical innovation. With technology advancing rapidly, they discuss what’s working, what’s hype, and how companies can focus on solutions that truly move the needle.

In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan dig into the conversations shaping agriculture's future. They explore the unique value of learning from people outside your immediate industry, as highlighted by programs like TEPAP. The discussion shifts to the importance of preparation and strategy in an industry full of volatility. From investing during good times to planning for what could go wrong, they emphasize the need to focus on opportunities while staying ready for inevitable challenges. As the largest fragmentation and estate succession in history approaches by 2033, are those under 50 ready to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity?