The MyAgLife Podcast

California growers are facing mounting challenges, from rising production costs and water uncertainty to changing regulations and fewer crop protection options.In this episode of the MyAgLife Podcast, Jay Visser sits down with Thomas Putzel of ORCAL to discuss the pressures facing California agriculture and what it takes to keep farming operations economically viable.Putzel shares his perspective on the practicality of alternative pest management tools, the importance of winter sanitation, emerging technologies and the role of sustainable practices in crop production. The conversation also explores water infrastructure, consumer awareness and why finding ways to do more with less is becoming increasingly important for California growers.

Effective navel orangeworm management requires more than a single season's results. In this episode of the MyAgLife Podcast, independent crop consultant Emily Symmes joins MyAgLife's Kristin Platts to discuss evaluating pest management programs, prioritizing orchard sanitation and using field research to make informed decisions.Recorded at the 2026 Crop Consultant Conference, the conversation also explores emerging technologies, the importance of grower feedback and how new tools could shape pest management in California orchards.

After more than 45 years working with California growers, PCA and CCA Gary Osteen has seen plenty of changes in agriculture. In this episode of the MyAgLife Podcast, Osteen joins Kristin Platts to discuss how crop consulting has evolved, the importance of field scouting and building lasting relationships with growers. He also shares stories from his work in forensic agronomy and offers advice for the next generation of crop consultants.

In this episode of the MyAgLife Podcast, JCS Marketing CEO Jason Scott joins host and West Coast Nut magazine editor Kristin Platts to discuss two upcoming Northern California events: the North Valley Nut Conference and the California Walnut Conference.Scott shares what growers can expect from these free industry events, the importance of education and networking, and how partnerships with UC Cooperative Extension and the California Walnut Board help bring valuable resources to the agricultural community. He also reflects on JCS Marketing's roots in Northern California and the company's commitment to supporting growers through education, research and industry connections.The North Valley Nut Conference takes place Jan. 14 in Chico, followed by the California Walnut Conference on Feb. 25 in Yuba City.Both events are free to attend. Register at myaglife.com/events.

In this episode of the MyAgLife Podcast, Kristin Platts talks with Anne Visser of UC Davis about how California agriculture is changing and what that means for the people and businesses trying to reach growers.Recorded at the 2026 Crop Consultant Conference, Visser discusses the economic, policy, technology and environmental pressures reshaping rural regions and agricultural businesses, and why assumptions about today’s “typical grower” may no longer match reality.Visser also looks ahead at the forces likely to shape California agriculture over the next five years, including technology and AI, water, labor and rising operating costs.Find more of Visser’s research through UC Davis.