Podcasts

Wheat's On Your Mind

Podcast from Kansas Wheat

Latest Episode

WOYM – A Brazilian Reasons Why

(00:00) Romolo's surprise at the rapid development in the Mato Grosso region (03:38) Similarities between Brazilian and American farmers: love for their work and daily risks (04:46) John's impressions: homogenous soils, abundant rainfall, and productive capacity (05:56) Ken's familiarity with the southern regions and livestock integration (07:26) Chris's blind approach and realization of shared challenges between farmers (08:34) Explanation of Brazil's red, oxidized, and acidic soils (10:56) Typical crop rotation in Mato Grosso: early soybeans followed by second-crop corn (13:48) Intensive inputs required, including multiple fungicide applications (15:03) Chris's observations on emerging challenges like nematodes and biological solutions (17:30) John's perspective on Brazil's competitiveness and currency exchange issues (20:29) Ken's amazement at field operations continuing after a 1.5-inch rain (21:29) Government regulations and corporate boycotts faced by Brazilian farmers (25:16) Anecdote about a farmer replanting a small area to regain market access (27:41) Historical context of land development, similar to the US (29:49) Logistical challenges with a single two-lane highway for transportation (32:33) Potential impact of improved transportation infrastructure (35:53) John's perspective on investment opportunities and nationalist sentiments (39:15) Comparison of public extension systems between Brazil and the US (40:44) Ken's thoughts on maintaining US competitiveness through regulations and research (43:42) Biotrigo, a wheat breeding company founded by K-State graduates (44:37) John's concerns about Brazil's potential dominance with biotech wheat (46:57) Romolo's insights into Brazil's diversity and melting pot culture (49:53) Potential for expanding cropland by intensifying degraded pastures (50:25) Challenges of fertilizer imports and input costs for Brazilian farmers (52:32) Chris's appreciation for soil health practices after witnessing Brazil's challenges (53:55) Ken's interest in revisiting southern Brazil for tourism and cultural immersion (55:37) John's desire to return in 5-10 years to witness Brazil's agricultural advancements (56:42) Chris's curiosity about generational transitions and labor availability (58:28) Romolo's final thoughts on potential areas for knowledge exchange, like sugarcane production, integrated forestry-pasture-crop systems, and grower-funded research models.

May 7 • 1h 1m 37s

Episodes

WOYM – A Brazilian Reasons Why

May 7 • 1h 1m 37s

WOYM – The Podcast About a Podcast, Agro Connection

What is in this episode (00:00:03) Welcome to the podcast (00:00:25) Agro Connection is an international information portal connecting people interested in pushing the frontiers of agricultural knowledge. Its award-winning podcast has over 9000 downloads in less than two years, and its YouTube videos have reached 4600 subscribers and nearly 200,000 views. (00:00:56) Carlos Pires, one of Agro Connection's founders, recently received his PhD in agronomy and soil science at Kansas State University. (00:01:17) Carlos discusses his background and how he decided to pursue agronomy, influenced by his family's involvement in the field. (00:02:01) At age 13, Carlos left home to attend a vocational school focused on agriculture and livestock, making the choice between pursuing soccer or a degree. (00:03:19) It's common for 13-year-olds in Carlos's home state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, to attend vocational schools if interested in agriculture, often sponsored by local co-ops. (00:04:09) Carlos's family immigrated from Italy in the late 1800s, with one of the first agronomists in the family being Clovis. (00:04:45) Many Brazilians dream of getting their education in the United States due to the opportunity to learn English and the country's leadership in agriculture. (00:05:51) In Rio Grande do Sul, spring wheat is primarily grown, fitting well into the rotation with soybeans and corn. (00:06:46) Carlos met Professor Chuck Rice, who had an appointment at the Federal University of Santa Maria, sparking his interest in coming to Kansas State University. (00:08:01) The idea for the Agro Connection podcast came about during a trip to Florida during the pandemic, as a way to connect Brazilian and American agriculture. (00:09:20) The podcast aimed to contribute information from Brazilians around the world back to farmers and consultants in Brazil. (00:10:53) The first podcast episode discussed "Agriculture in the Future," followed by an episode on "Wheat in Kansas." (00:11:38) The podcast's initial success motivated Carlos and his team to continue, receiving positive feedback from colleagues and students using the material in classrooms. (00:12:53) The name "Agro Connection" was chosen through a poll, fitting the podcast's purpose of connecting people. (00:14:06) The podcast is a hobby, with two episodes recorded per month after 5:00 PM and promoted primarily through Instagram. (00:15:40) Videos were added to the YouTube channel, becoming a significant part of Agro Connection's content, with some videos reaching 55,000 views. (00:18:02) The videos received both positive and negative feedback, with some viewers questioning their authenticity due to the potential impact on crop prices. (00:20:09) Carlos explains the differences between Brazilian and American soils, emphasizing the need to translate information appropriately for each region. (00:21:24) While Brazil has access to many of the same technologies as the US, some newer technologies like see-and-spray are first tested in the US before reaching Brazil. (00:22:08) The podcast itself has not been monetized, but sponsors have covered the costs of the crop tour videos. (00:23:59) The podcast won an award in Brazil after its first year, competing against major media companies and motivating the team to continue their efforts. (00:25:05) Carlos discusses how the idea for organizing trips to the US for Brazilians evolved, leading to the recent trip organized for the Kansas Agricultural and Rural Leadership Program. (00:27:05) Agro Connection is now exploring organizing trips focused on regenerative agriculture, soil health, and the use of biologicals, taking Americans to Brazil. (00:30:16) Carlos shares what he learned about his own country through the experience of guiding the American group, including exposure to different biomes and the connections between farmers from both countries. (00:32:04) While Carlos has a new position at North Dakota State University, the demand for the travel business may compete with his day job. (00:33:09) Agro Connection involves a network of Brazilian students in the US, exposing them to extension, communication, education, and engagement with farmers. (00:35:05) Carlos plans to continue the podcast, videos, and trips, as they align with his passion for research and extension, engaging farmers from both countries. (00:35:49) Carlos notes similarities between Brazilian and American farmers in their concern for profitability, while differences include labor availability and the scale of operations. (00:37:55) Carlos expresses gratitude for the welcoming nature of farmers in both countries and their willingness to share knowledge. (00:38:02) For more information, visit www.agroconnection.net or follow @agroconnection on Instagram. (00:39:14) Carlos reflects on the importance of Agro Connection as a side project connected to his research and extension goals at Kansas State University. KSWheat.com AgroConnection.net

April 23 • 40m 1s

WOYM – Gone With The Wind

Kansas Wheat Podcast Timestamps: Surviving a Tornado - The Story of Ken and Deb Wood (00:00:02) Introduction to the "Wheat's on Your Mind" podcast by Aaron Harries, featuring guests Ken and Deb Wood, who share their harrowing experience with a devastating tornado in Chapman, Kansas. (00:00:33) A detailed account of the tornado's impact, highlighting its EF four rating and the extensive damage it caused, including the near miss of Chapman town. (00:01:14) Ken and Deb Wood's farmstead, the epicenter of the tornado's worst damage, is introduced, along with their backgrounds in agriculture and community service. (00:01:41) Ken describes their farm operation and the state of their homestead just before the storm hit, painting a picture of their life prior to the disaster. (00:02:45) Deb recounts her day leading up to the tornado, her initial reactions, and the slow realization of the impending danger. (00:03:40) Ken shares his whereabouts during the tornado and his disbelief at the severity of the weather event. (00:05:26) The couple discusses their communication during the tornado, their concerns for their community, and the unexpected path of the tornado. (00:06:32) Deb's experience in the basement during the tornado, her preparations, and the moment of impact are vividly described. (00:08:24) The aftermath of the tornado is detailed, including the destruction of their brick house and Deb's survival in the basement. (00:10:05) The first responder's arrival and Deb's rescue from the debris are recounted, highlighting the community's quick response. (00:12:09) Ken's reaction to learning about the direct hit on their home and his frantic drive back, navigating through the chaos and destruction. (00:15:11) The couple's first moments together after the tornado, the realization of their loss, and the support from the community are shared. (00:17:10) Ken and Deb discuss the immediate aftermath, including seeing the tornado's damage on video and the decision to rebuild their lives. (00:20:09) The process of cleaning up the homestead and fields, and the challenges of starting over, are explored. (00:32:01) The impact on their farming operation, the loss of equipment, and the community's assistance in the recovery process are discussed. (00:37:29) Deb talks about rebuilding their home, the considerations they had, and the importance of having a safe room. (00:41:34) The couple shares lessons learned from the disaster, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and community support. (00:46:08) Ken reflects on the decision to retire from farming, the transition process, and the value of community and industry connections. (00:53:15) Closing remarks and gratitude expressed by Aaron Harries for Ken and Deb Wood's willingness to share their story.

April 9 • 53m 36s

WOYM – Eat Wheat

KSwheat.com EatWheat.org In this episode, we uncover the innovative strategies and platforms used to educate consumers about wheat, its benefits, and the farming process. Specifically: The evolution and impact of eatwheat.org, a program designed to bridge the gap between wheat farmers and consumers. How they leverage social media and digital content to target diverse audiences, from farmers to international consumers. The role of SEO and analytics in understanding consumer interests and driving traffic to wheat-related content. Adapting communication strategies to the changing media landscapes, including the shift from print to digital and targeted advertising. The importance of storytelling in connecting consumers with the origins of their food, featuring farmer profiles and educational resources on wheat varieties and uses. Challenges and opportunities in creating engaging content for platforms like TikTok and Instagram to inspire consumers about wheat foods. Join Aaron as Marsha Boswell shares her experience and knowledge on the importance of communication in agriculture, the innovative approaches they are taking to reach a broader audience, and the ongoing efforts to demystify the wheat production process for consumers. Whether you're a farmer, a consumer curious about where your food comes from, or someone interested in agricultural marketing, this episode offers a wealth of insights into the power of effective communication in bridging the gap between farm and table. For more information, visit kswheat.com and eatweat.org.

March 27 • 27m 8s

WOYM – The Craft of Wheat Quality

Grain Craft’s Innovation and Quality Lab at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center in Manhattan

March 12 • 31m 11s

WOYM – Down in Africa

Chad Weigand, Regional Director of the Sub-Sahara African region for U.S. Wheat Associates joins Aaron on this episode to brief us on the markets for hard red winter wheat in different African countries. From Nigeria to South Africa, Chad shares insights about those countries’ preferences in wheat.

February 27 • 30m 2s