In this episode of StalkTalk, Todd Martin, Cat Frans, and Craig Nelson discuss various topics related to agriculture including insights from the Corn Belt Seed and Grain Conference, and the role of AI in enhancing efficiency within the agricultural sector. They emphasize the importance of networking and community in the seed industry, the significance of genetic testing, and the future directions for the Indiana Crop Improvement Association. The conversation highlights the need for embracing technology while maintaining personal relationships in the industry.
In this episode of StalkTalk, Todd Martin interviews Sarah Wilbanks from AOSCA, discussing the vital role of seed testing and certification in agriculture. They explore AOSCA's history, its international reach, and the importance of education and mentorship in the seed industry. Sarah highlights the launch of the AOSCA Academy, aimed at training new professionals in seed certification, and discusses the challenges of food security in regions like Africa. The conversation also touches on the structure of AOSCA's membership, the diverse crop types under certification, and the significance of customer service in agriculture. Looking ahead, they discuss strategic initiatives for 2026 and the upcoming AOSCA conference in Colorado.
We had a little too much fun running StalkTalk live at the Western Seed Association Conference! Lots of talk about football, goats, and broncos - but we made sure to talk about the industry and the upcoming IPSA Annual Conference.
In this engaging conversation, Todd Martin, Cat Frans, and Kevin Cavanaugh discuss various aspects of biotechnology, intellectual property, and the agricultural landscape. They explore the impact of patent systems on innovation, the evolution of biotechnology in agriculture, and the dynamics of genetic gain in crop production. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities presented by post-patent genetics and the future of independent agricultural companies.
This conversation delves into the complexities of intellectual property in agriculture, particularly focusing on seed patents and their impact on innovation and farmers. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by the agricultural economy, including rising input costs and market consolidation. Joel Cape along with Todd Martin and Cat Frans emphasize the need for government intervention and the importance of competition in the industry. They also explore the role of technology and farm policy in shaping the current landscape, concluding with reflections on the future of agriculture and the necessity for robust competition.
Join us with Scott Sanders (Peterson Farm Seed) and Amy Wills (WOOF Social) This conversation explores the integration of AI in marketing and business, discussing its potential benefits, challenges, and implications for the job market. We share insights on how AI can enhance efficiency, the importance of verifying AI-generated information, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing and agriculture.
Join us for a special episode of StalkTalk as we celebrate the 90th anniversary of Burrus Seed. We are joined by Todd Burris, Tim Greene, and Griffin Greene, representing three generations of the Burrus family. Discover the rich history of Burrus Seed, from its founding in 1935 by Roy and Wilbur Burris to its current innovations in the seed industry. Learn about the challenges and triumphs that have shaped this family-owned business and the values of service and integrity that continue to guide it today.
In this episode of StalkTalk, Todd Martin and Cat Frans welcome Elizabeth Burns-Thompson from the Modern Ag Alliance to discuss the ongoing controversies surrounding glyphosate and Roundup. They delve into the legal challenges faced by agricultural products, the misconceptions about glyphosate's safety, and the proactive measures being taken by the Modern Ag Alliance to ensure farmers have access to essential crop protection tools. In this conversation, Todd Martin and Elizabeth Burns-Thompson discuss the current legislative landscape in agriculture, focusing on the importance of labeling, the implications of the Make America Healthy Again report, and the need for better public education on agricultural practices. They emphasize the significance of building relationships with legislators and the role of glyphosate in modern farming.
An overview of Agrauxine and its innovative agricultural products, and the importance of optimizing agricultural inputs for better yield without increasing costs.
The conversation covers a range of topics including current events, the upcoming leadership conference for the American Seed Trade Association, the importance of advocacy in agriculture, and the pressing agricultural issues such as tariffs affecting the industry. The speakers emphasize the need for active participation in advocacy efforts to ensure the seed industry's voice is heard in Washington, D.C. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the current challenges and opportunities in the agriculture sector, focusing on trade issues, tariffs, and the potential for sustainable aviation fuel as a new market for corn farmers. They emphasize the importance of advocacy and building relationships with legislators to ensure the seed industry's interests are represented. The discussion also highlights the need for diversity within the seed industry and the ongoing cultivation of connections with policymakers.
The conversation at the IPSA Annual Conference highlights the importance of innovation in agriculture, particularly in crop protection and seed treatments. Guests discuss the significance of family-owned businesses like Heads Up, which focus on developing biological products to combat plant diseases. The dialogue emphasizes the need for legitimacy in the industry and the positive results from ongoing trials, showcasing the potential for future advancements in farming practices.
In this engaging conversation, Cat Frans interviews Tommy Saatzer from Profile Industries at the IPSA's annual conference. They discuss the innovative marketing strategies employed by Profile Industries, particularly the unique approach of using donuts to attract attention and demonstrate their products. Tommy shares insights into how Profile Industries is revolutionizing seed processing technology and hints at exciting future developments. The conversation highlights the importance of innovation in the industry and the value of personal connections at trade shows.
FSS focuses on the importance of fumigation in the seed industry and pest control. The speakers discuss the significance of brand protection, the partnership approach in pest management, and the fumigation process, emphasizing safety and quality assurance in agricultural practices. They also touch on the implications of international trade and the necessity of maintaining high standards in food safety.
Join us in our StalkTalk from the Conference with InnerPlant. Our conversation focuses on CropVoice, a technology that allows for early detection of plant stress through fluorescent proteins. The discussion highlights the unique involvement of farmers in the development of agricultural technology, the role of biotechnology in enhancing crop resilience, and the integration of satellite imagery for real-time decision-making in farming. The importance of optimizing fungicide applications and the future of precision agriculture are also emphasized, showcasing how better data can lead to improved farming practices and outcomes.
Join us live from wrap up of the 36th IPSA Annual Conference! We're highlighting its smooth execution, notable speakers, and the importance of innovation in agriculture. The speakers shared insights on AI's role in farming, the need for independent seed companies to embrace change, and the potential for collaboration with multinationals. Our new president, Scott Sanders outlines a vision for strengthening relationships within the industry to independent companies.
In this engaging conversation, Todd Martin, Cat Frans, and Matt Dannenfeldt discuss the festive spirit of the holidays, the impact of Santa Claus, and the recent management buyout at Seedbox Solutions. They delve into the company's growth, innovative solutions for independent seed companies, and the future of technology in seed packaging. The discussion highlights the importance of customer experience and the need for innovation in the agricultural sector. In this engaging conversation, we discuss the evolving relationships in business, particularly in the agriculture sector. They explore the importance of innovation, customer experience, and community engagement, while also sharing light-hearted moments about Christmas traditions and preferences.
The conversation explores various themes including family dynamics, reflections on childhood, career paths in agriculture, the impact of education, and the role of curiosity in personal growth. Todd Martin, Mac Marshall, and Cat Frans engage in a light-hearted yet insightful discussion that delves into their experiences and perspectives on these topics. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of education, agriculture, and energy policy. They emphasize the importance of intellectual curiosity over standardized testing, the implications of agricultural policy changes, and the historical context of trade relations. The conversation also delves into climate policy, the future of biofuels, and the need for energy independence, while highlighting the critical intersection of food and energy in bridging the urban-rural divide.
In this episode, hosts Todd Martin and Cat Frans sit down with Emily Negrin to discuss the groundbreaking work of INARI and her unique journey into agriculture. Together, they dive into topics like gene editing's potential to address global hunger, regulatory challenges from the EPA, and the impact of patents on agricultural innovation. They also explore the role of government support, transparency, and activism in driving progress within the industry. Join us for an insightful conversation on the future of sustainable agriculture and the solutions shaping it.
In this conversation, Todd Martin, Cat Frans, and Shawn Brook discuss the current state and future of the seed industry, focusing on regional insights, market trends, and the importance of customer experience. They explore the dichotomy between independent seed companies that are thriving and those struggling, emphasizing the need for a strong customer value journey and the significance of origin stories in marketing. The discussion also touches on the impact of off-patent genetics and the evolving landscape of the seed market, highlighting the necessity for companies to adapt and innovate to remain competitive.
Listening in to hear how Ben Green with Purple Ribbon Seeds ended up in the seed business and more!